Japan bear sightings prompt emergency hunts and new hazard pay

Increased sightings of Asiatic black bears are prompting urgent responses in several Japanese regions. In Iwaki City, Fukushima Prefecture, officials are facing a rise in sightings, with 41 cases reported by early September, significantly exceeding previous years. In response, Iwaki City plans to introduce a special duty allowance for employees tasked with hazardous wildlife management, such as emergency hunting or setting traps, to boost morale and ensure public safety.

In Maizuru City, Kyoto Prefecture, authorities responded to an emergency call regarding two bears, believed to be a mother and cub, sheltering under the floor of a private residence. Local officials coordinated with police to authorize an emergency hunt using tranquilizer guns to resolve the situation.