Growth of bear attacks in Japanese cities requires new control and coexistence strategies
Residents of Japan have traditionally been wary of bears when visiting mountainous areas. However, nowadays, the risk of encountering these animals extends to urban streets and house entrances. Sightings and incidents are on the rise, and experts warn of the need for a more assertive and proactive strategy.
Recently, in the central region of Utsunomiya, north of Tokyo, several residents witnessed a bear swimming, climbing fences and roaming around the city. As a result, primary and secondary schools in the area remained closed for three days as a safety measure.
The Utsunomiya case represents just one example of the growing problem. Sightings multiplied in several locations, with often tragic outcomes. Data compiled by NHK reveals that between April 1 and June 11, at least 27 individuals were attacked by bears in nine prefectures. The Ministry of the Environment confirmed four deaths resulting from these attacks.
Experts point out that the cause of the problem lies in multiple factors, such as Japan’s rapid demographic decline. As rural communities in mountainous regions become empty, a greater amount of land remains without human management, a scenario that bears interpret as an opportunity to expand their habitat and seek resources.
In addition, experts observe a decrease in bears’ fear of humans. They are learning that urban areas can offer plentiful food sources, which draws them closer to housing.
Mating season, which usually begins in early summer, also intensifies bear activity. Professor Sato Yoshikazu, an ecologist specializing in bears at Rakuno Gakuen University, explains that “adult males travel great distances in search of females, while mothers with cubs try to avoid them”, which can increase the number of sightings in less common regions.
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Researchers indicate that bears use riverine forests and waterways as routes to enter urban areas. In some cases, these animals even reach the heart of cities, surprising residents.
The Japanese government reacted last year, relaxing the rules for hunting wild animals, which includes bears in inhabited regions, seeking more efficient control.
However, Professor Sato suggests that it is crucial to address the root of the problem in a more preventive way. For him, “cities and towns need to develop greater resistance to bear incursions”, reinforcing the need for long-term measures.
Among the proposals made by experts to increase this resistance, the most notable are the removal of riverine vegetation and underforests that serve as corridors for animals, as well as the installation of physical barriers, such as electric fences.
Authorities recognize the need for additional actions to manage the problem. In March, a work plan valid until fiscal year 2030 was drawn up, focused on measures to more effectively keep bears and humans in their respective spaces.
To do this, it will be necessary to obtain a more accurate census of bear populations in Japan. Additionally, the government will have to guarantee the availability of more qualified personnel to capture and control these animals, which requires specific training and equipment.
It is clear that the resolution of this complex challenge will not be immediate. The solution will require careful planning based on robust scientific evidence to ensure the safety of the population and harmonious coexistence.
