Japan sees drop in Sapporo bear sightings as Fujiyoshida reports new encounter

In Sapporo, the number of bear sightings has fallen for four consecutive months (April‑July) compared with the 2025 fiscal year. Professor Kiwa Sato of Dairy Science University attributes the decline to a large capture and culling operation the previous year, a poor acorn harvest that reduced breeding, and natural deaths, and he cautioned that low numbers may persist while urging preventive measures for future years.

In Fujiyoshida, Yamanashi Prefecture, a bear was seen crossing a city road on July 30, following a similar sighting on July 29. No injuries were reported. The city broadcast warnings via its disaster‑prevention radio system and used fireworks to disperse the animal, emphasizing public safety.