Bears in Montana are always a hot topic and for good reason. As we all know, bears are cute but also dangerous. I’ll never understand why nature makes some of the most deadly creatures so darn cute. Why make friend-shaped animals that definitely aren’t friendly? Anyway, bears. Here in Montana, we have a few bear attacks every year, and honestly, it’s just part of living in a wild place. But Montana isn’t the only spot dealing with bear drama right now. You might think Russia or maybe some other rugged country, but surprisingly, it’s Japan.

Credit: unsplash

Credit: unsplash

In Japan’s northern Akita prefecture, they’re facing one of their worst years ever for bear attacks. It’s gotten so serious that the military has stepped in to help local authorities manage the situation. Since April, at least 13 people have been killed and over 100 injured by bears, which is one of the highest numbers Japan has seen since they started keeping records back in 2006.
The issue comes down to changing habitats and food shortages caused by climate shifts. With forests producing less food and human development pushing deeper into wildlife territory, bears are wandering into towns, farms, and even grocery stores. In one wild month, people were attacked in a supermarket, a tourist got scratched by a cub at a heritage site, and a runner had to literally wrestle a bear before escaping.
“A person is 4.2 times more likely to be killed by a bear in Japan than in the United States.” – Japan Times

Credit: unsplash

Credit: unsplash

Now, Japan’s Self-Defense Forces are helping with logistics like setting traps and hauling away animals, while the government scrambles for new solutions. They’re even testing drones and AI cameras to spot and scare off bears before they get too close.

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If you’re anything like me, this is pretty wild to hear. Japan was definitely not where I expected to see so many bear attacks. It just goes to show that when you mix habitat loss and more people, you’re bound to get some kind of problem, especially with big predators.

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