There has been an increase in bear attacks in this region for the following reasons:
The Tottori Prefecture in Japan has witnessed a surge in brown bear attacks recently. Over the past year, six people have lost their lives, and more than 200 individuals have been injured in these encounters:
Food Scarcity for Bears: Brown bears, like any other wildlife, rely on specific food sources. However, fluctuating harvests of their staple foods have disrupted their natural feeding patterns. As their usual food becomes scarce, bears may venture closer to human settlements in search of alternative sustenance.
Rural Depopulation: The decline in the number of children in country towns and villages has contributed to the increase in bear encounters. Children’s noisier behavior often helps keep bears away. With fewer children around, bears may feel more comfortable approaching inhabited areas.
AI Bear-Warning System: In response to the rising bear-human conflicts, Japan is trialing an AI-warning system. The pilot system, currently implemented in Toyama prefecture, central Japan, monitors live feeds from government, municipal, and private security cameras. It identifies bears in areas close to people and sends instant warnings to relevant local authorities, police, and hunters. AI also tracks bear movement patterns to predict their future whereabouts. If successful, this system will be expanded to other regions with significant bear populations.
Other Initiatives: Hanamaki city in the north-east’s Iwate prefecture is also testing an AI surveillance system. Cameras installed along rivers notify a monitoring station and local residents when bears are spotted. The city aims to deter bears from entering without resorting to lethal measures.
Bear Characteristics: Hokkaido, Japan’s northern island, is home to Ussuri brown bears, which are larger than their black counterparts. These bears can weigh over 300 kg and run at speeds up to 50 km/h. Recent incidents, including a bear attack caught on dashcam, highlight the need for effective safety measures.
