Overview
- A man in his 50s was attacked in Aizubange, Fukushima, on Nov 7, suffering a head laceration and receiving hospital treatment for non-life-threatening injuries.
- Local police said the victim rushed into a nearby house after the attack and have increased patrols while urging residents to use caution.
- A separate bear attack on Nov 2 injured a man in his 80s in the same neighborhood, underscoring persistent encounters in residential areas.
- Japan has recorded more than 100 bear attacks since April, with a record 12 fatalities, and roughly two-thirds of deaths occurring in Akita and Iwate prefectures.
- On Nov 5, the Self-Defense Forces deployed to the mountainous north to help transport, set, and inspect box traps, with licensed hunters culling captured bears.