Acorn Shortage in Japan Raises Fears of Increased Bear Attacks
Bears across Japan are exhibiting increased activity ahead of winter, with poor acorn harvests in several prefectures, including Kyoto, Hyogo, Aichi, and Gunma, raising concerns that hungry animals may venture closer to human settlements and tourist areas in search of food. Footage from Okoppe, Hokkaido, showed a large brown bear and its cub near a river, while another bear was seen entering a residence in Toyota, Aichi Prefecture. A road to Jizukiyama Park in Nagano was temporarily closed due to a bear sighting. Experts warn that while some regions like Tohoku have had abundant nut harvests, potentially leading to higher reproduction rates and delayed hibernation, the overall scarcity in other areas could drive bears into populated zones. Hotels and tourist attractions are implementing safety measures, such as bear deterrent alarms and bear bells on walking sticks, and some have purchased bear spray.
