Japan Faces Unprecedented Bear Attack Surge: Military Deployed to Aid Crisis

Japan is confronting an unprecedented surge in bear attacks, prompting the government to deploy military personnel to assist local authorities in managing the crisis. Since April 2025, bear encounters have resulted in at least 13 fatalities and over 100 injuries, surpassing previous records.

The northern prefectures of Akita and Iwate have been particularly affected. In Akita, more than 50 attacks have been reported since May, leading to at least four deaths. Bear sightings in the region have surged to over 8,000 this year, a sixfold increase compared to previous years. These incidents have disrupted daily life, causing event cancellations and school closures.

In response to the escalating threat, the Japanese government deployed military troops to Akita Prefecture in early November. The soldiers are assisting in setting traps, transporting local hunters, and disposing of bear carcasses. However, they are not authorized to use firearms for culling. This marks a rare use of military resources for wildlife control, emphasizing the urgency and scale of the current bear crisis.

Several factors have been identified as contributing to the increase in bear attacks:

• Food Shortages: Climate change has led to poor yields of beech nuts and acorns, primary food sources for bears, driving them into human-inhabited areas in search of sustenance.

• Rural Depopulation: The aging and declining population in rural areas has resulted in abandoned properties and overgrown vegetation, providing cover and food for bears and increasing the likelihood of human-bear encounters.

• Bear Population Growth: Conservation efforts and reduced hunting pressure have led to an increase in bear populations. The overall bear population in Japan is currently estimated at more than 54,000.

The surge in bear attacks has profound social implications:

• Public Safety Concerns: Residents in affected areas are experiencing heightened fear and anxiety, leading to changes in daily routines and activities.

• Economic Impact: Agricultural damage from bears, such as the loss of apple harvests, has financial repercussions for farmers.

• Cultural Significance: Despite the dangers, bears hold an iconic status in Japanese culture, symbolized by figures like Kumamon and stories of the matagi hunters.

Experts suggest that a combination of factors, including climate change, rural depopulation, and bear population growth, are driving the increase in bear attacks. They recommend comprehensive strategies to manage bear populations and ensure public safety, such as training governmental hunters and revising regulations.

The unprecedented surge in bear attacks in Japan during fiscal year 2025 highlights the complex interplay between environmental changes, societal shifts, and wildlife behavior. Addressing this issue requires a multifaceted approach that considers ecological, social, and cultural factors to develop effective and sustainable solutions.