“熊患”加剧,日本伤亡数字创历史纪录
第一财经·2025-12-12 06:25

Core Viewpoint - Japan is experiencing a significant increase in bear attacks, with 235 reported injuries and 13 fatalities since April, marking a historical high for the country [3][6]. Impact on Tourism Industry - The bear attacks have adversely affected the tourism sector, particularly in Nagano Prefecture, where a historic inn lost over 300 bookings due to safety concerns [6]. - The presence of bears in populated areas has led to school closures and warnings from foreign embassies to their citizens traveling in rural Japan [6][8]. Reasons for Bear Activity in Winter - Climate change is identified as a key factor disrupting the ecological balance, with average temperatures in Hokkaido rising by 2.4 degrees Celsius over the past 30 years, shortening the hibernation period of bears [8][9]. - A poor harvest of beech and oak acorns in 2025 has left Asian black bears without sufficient fat reserves for winter, leading to increased activity [8][9]. - Japan's declining population and abandoned farmland have blurred the boundaries between forests and human habitation, resulting in more frequent bear encounters [8][9]. Bear Population Growth - The bear population in Japan is increasing at an annual rate of 15%, with numbers rising from approximately 15,000 in 2012 to around 54,000 this year [9][10]. - If left unmanaged, the bear population could double in five years, posing further risks to human safety and the tourism industry [9][10].

“熊患”加剧,日本伤亡数字创历史纪录 - Reportify