A black bear that evaded capture for nearly a week in a residential area of western Japan has been tranquilised and detained, concluding an operation that drew intense public attention. The male bear, estimated to be 1.7 metres in length and weighing approximately 150 kilogrammes, was first sighted on Monday in the city of Tottori, prompting local authorities to issue warnings and close schools.
Wildlife experts from the British Animal and Plant Health Agency (APHA) were consulted during the operation, offering guidance on trapping methods and public safety protocols. The bear, believed to have wandered from the surrounding forested hills, was found on Saturday morning in a bamboo grove near a kindergarten. A veterinary team from the Tottori prefectural government administered a sedative via dart gun before transporting the animal to a secure facility for health assessment.
The incident highlights the growing challenge of human-wildlife conflict in Japan, where expanding urban boundaries increasingly encroach on bear habitats. In 2023, a record 30 bear-related incidents were recorded in Tottori Prefecture, including two fatalities. Dr. Sarah Jennings, a senior wildlife adviser at APHA, stated: "The peaceful resolution of this situation is a testament to the professionalism of local authorities. However, it underscores the need for long-term strategies to manage bear populations and mitigate risks to communities."
Japanese officials have confirmed that the bear will be relocated to a remote mountain area following a quarantine period. The operation was conducted without the use of lethal force, reflecting a broader shift towards non-lethal management methods supported by international best practice.
