Local governments in rural areas across Japan have begun deploying drones equipped with loudspeakers, flashing lights, and even pepper spray to deter bears from populated areas. This measure comes in the wake of a record year for bear intrusions into residential zones, where the animals have been seen roaming through towns and neighborhoods due to shrinking habitats and food scarcity, driving them closer to humans. A prime example is a practical trial in Ishinomaki City, Miyagi Prefecture, where officials tested the drone's capabilities on a person in a full bear costume. The technical demonstration showcased the drone hovering in the sky before pausing to release pepper spray from above, highlighting how this system can scare animals without endangering people. Japan's Ministry of the Environment had previously warned that bear attacks have reached record levels, with dozens of serious injuries reported in recent years and multiple confirmed fatalities during peak seasons. This surge has prompted authorities to experiment with unconventional measures, such as encouraging children to carry plastic bottles to make noise on their way to school, and even deploying the Japan Self-Defense Forces to assist in tracking bears and responding in affected areas. Last year, researchers also unveiled an AI system designed to predict bear encounters before they happen, enabling local authorities to anticipate when and where bears might appear near towns or residential zones. While the use of drone technology is still in the experimental phase, officials see it as a potential long-term solution as Japan faces challenges like an aging population, a decline in licensed hunters, and the difficulty of predicting wildlife patterns.
