Iwate bear incursions trigger traps, DNA testing and alerts across Tohoku, Japan

In the town of Shizukuishi, Iwate Prefecture, a bear has repeatedly entered homes, opening refrigerators, stealing sweet snacks and even raiding a wagashi workshop. Local officials set multiple traps, captured one animal on July 16 and requested DNA analysis to determine whether it is the same individual responsible for earlier intrusions.

The Iwate town continues to install additional traps and maintain heightened vigilance. Meanwhile, Miyagi Prefecture has extended its bear‑appearance warning and alert through July 17, citing a 1.5‑fold rise in sightings compared with the previous year.

Japan has seen a surge in bear activity in the Tohoku region, with a record 13 fatal attacks nationwide last year and at least five deaths since April 1 this year. Authorities have mobilised police, hunters and local officials to trap bears and advise residents on safety measures as the expanding bear population and changing food availability bring wildlife closer to human settlements.