Japan Sees Record Bear Attacks, including Unusual Incident in Toilet
Tokyo, japan – Japan is experiencing a surge in bear attacks, reaching unprecedented levels this year. As of the beginning of April, 13 peopel have died and 197 attacks have been recorded – the highest numbers ever documented in the contry, according to the Ministry of Environmental Protection. The northern prefectures of Akita, Iwate, and Fukushima are notably affected. Authorities predict the number of attacks in 2024 will surpass last year’s record of 219.
The increased aggression is linked to food scarcity. Experts explain that hungry bears are venturing into residential areas in search of sustenance, a behaviour frequently enough triggered by poor acorn and nut harvests in the forests.
The danger has become so acute that a 69-year-old security guard was recently attacked inside a toilet.The man reported to police that he encountered a bear approximately 1 to 1.5 meters in size while exiting the restroom. The bear was looking into the toilet at the time. He fell backwards and defended himself by kicking the animal, which then fled. He sustained minor injuries to his right leg and promptly reported the incident to authorities.
In response to the escalating crisis, the Japanese government has deployed Self-Defense Forces to Akita Prefecture to assist local hunters in capturing and, when necessary, killing the bears. Due to a shortage of licensed hunters, police have also been authorized to shoot the animals.
further measures are being taken to protect tourists. According to UNIAN, the government plans to install additional fencing around open pools, following reports of bears entering hotel grounds. While the military is assisting with the implementation of these security measures,they have been instructed not to shoot the bears.
