Japan has dispatched soldiers to address a recent surge in bear attacks that have been causing fear among residents in a mountainous area in Akita prefecture. The encounters with brown bears and Asiatic black bears have been occurring frequently as the animals search for food before hibernation. Incidents have been reported near various locations such as schools, train stations, supermarkets, and a hot springs resort.
Since April, over 100 people have been injured and at least 12 individuals have lost their lives in bear-related incidents across Japan. This rise in bear encounters in residential areas is happening in a region with an aging and declining human population, further complicated by a shortage of individuals trained in bear hunting. The government estimates the bear population to be more than 54,000.
In response to the escalating situation, the Defence Ministry and Akita prefecture have agreed to deploy soldiers for assistance. The troops will be responsible for setting up baited traps, aiding local hunters, and managing deceased bears. It has been clarified that the soldiers will not resort to using firearms to control the bear population.
The operation commenced in Kazuno city, an area that has witnessed numerous bear sightings and injuries. Soldiers, equipped with protective gear and non-lethal bear deterrents, set up traps near an orchard to address the issue. Local residents, such as orchard operator Takahiro Ikeda, have suffered losses due to bear attacks on their produce, highlighting the severity of the situation.
Authorities, including Akita Governor Kenta Suzuki, have expressed urgency in dealing with the bear problem, citing a lack of manpower. Defence Minister Shinjiro Koizumi emphasized that while the military’s primary role is national defense, they are committed to safeguarding citizens from bear threats. Koizumi noted that the Self-Defence Forces are already understaffed and cannot offer unlimited support for bear-related issues.
In Akita prefecture alone, with a population of approximately 880,000, more than 50 people have been attacked by bears since May, resulting in at least four fatalities. Most incidents have occurred in residential areas, emphasizing the need for effective mitigation strategies.
The aging and dwindling population in rural Japan is considered a contributing factor to the escalating bear problem. Experts advocate for controlled culling of the bear population, emphasizing that the animals are not endangered. They recommend training police and other authorities as government hunters to assist in managing the bear population effectively.
To address the situation, the government has established a task force to develop an official bear response plan by mid-November. Proposed measures include bear population surveys, enhanced communication for issuing bear warnings, and revisions to hunting regulations. The absence of proactive measures in northern regions has led to the unchecked growth of the bear population, necessitating immediate action.
