Close encounters reported almost daily as bears intrude into residential areas and attack and sometimes kill people
Japan has deployed troops to the northern prefecture of Akita to help contain a surge in the number of bear attacks that have terrorised people in the mountainous region.
Unexpected encounters with bears are being reported almost daily in the lead up to hibernation season as the animals forage for food. The bears have been roaming near schools, train stations, supermarkets and even at a hot springs resort.
Some of the encounters have resulted in injuries and even a number of deaths. The growing bear population’s encroachment into residential areas is happening in a region with a rapidly aging and declining human population.
Since April, more than 100 people have been injured and at least 12 killed in bear attacks across Japan, according to the environment ministry.
