Managing bears in Japan through model of co-existence
AS a sensor sounded, scientist Akiko Takii hurried to a bear trap deep in the forests of Nagano in Japan, where rising nationwide attacks have brought fear and resulted in the culling of thousands of the animals.
In a pioneering management plan launched in 1995, the bear population in Nagano, Japan, is being carefully monitored and co-existed with to prevent attacks on humans. Scientist Akiko Takii has been instrumental in this process, where researchers trap, tag, and release bears after collecting blood and fur samples. This approach is gaining attention as an alternative to culling bears to curb attacks, as it allows more bears to survive and maintain a healthy population.
Alongside trapping, specially trained Karelian Bear Dogs are used to scare bears away, and over 3,000km of fencing has been installed to keep bears away from human settlements. Despite an increase in bear sightings and a few fatal attacks, the co-existence program has shown success in reducing encounters and promoting a healthier bear population.
However, this approach remains a minority view, with the central government still largely focused on culling bears. Nevertheless, Nagano's program serves as a model for others to follow, emphasizing the importance of understanding bear behavior and maintaining a safe distance from these magnificent creatures.
Written by urgent.news from New Straits Times's reporting — not their text. Machine-written — may contain errors; check the original before relying on it.
