Today's Close-Up S2025E42 - Bear Attacks in Japan Residential Areas Face Growing Threat

Bear attacks are on the rise in Japan. Dozens of injuries and several deaths have been reported this year. Many bears are coming down from their mountain habitats and entering residential areas. Experts say if they get used to being around humans, their behavior may get more aggressive. As the bear population continues to grow, Japan could be facing the start of a new kind of natural disaster. We learn about steps we can take to protect ourselves and our communities. We also ask a bear expert how humans can learn to coexist with the animals.

Guest: Ohnishi Naoki (Forestry and Forest Products Research Institute)