A 26-year-old man from Tokyo was fatally attacked by a bear while descending Mount Rausu, a popular hiking destination on the Shiretoko Peninsula in Hokkaido, Japan, on August 14. His body was found the next day, and three bears, including a mother and two cubs, were shot by local hunters near the scene. DNA analysis later confirmed that the mother bear was responsible for the attack.
Mount Rausu, a prominent site listed among Japan’s 100 famous mountains, is situated in an area known for its rich natural resources and high bear population. Just two days before the fatal incident, another hiker reported a close encounter with a bear in the area, using bear-repellent spray to deter it, though it lingered for several minutes.
Amid a rise in wildlife encounters, a revised wildlife protection law set to take effect on September 1 will empower local municipalities to authorize the shooting of bears that pose a threat to public safety, a decision previously reserved for law enforcement.
The bear’s culling sparked public debate about wildlife management. Some voiced concerns over the necessity of killing the cubs and criticized the intrusion into the bears’ habitat. In contrast, others supported the culling as a necessary safety measure. The Shari Town office received about 120 responses, with roughly 70 percent criticizing the decision.
Calls for stricter access regulations to Mount Rausu emerged as the town considers safety measures. Currently, access to the mountain is restricted, and it remains unclear when it will reopen. Town officials have been urged to ensure public safety moving forward.
by MagazineKey4532