Foraging Experts Urge Use of Bells Amid Rising Bear Attacks in Japan

A forager was attacked by a bear in Miyako City, Iwate, as wildlife activity increases across Japan this week ^[1].

The incidents highlight a growing danger for people entering forests to gather spring wild vegetables and mushrooms. Because bears become active after waking from winter hibernation, they are more likely to encounter humans in shared foraging areas ^[3].

Kotsu Shinbo, chairman of the Yamada Hunting Association and a foraging expert, said the sound of a bell is the key to preventing these encounters. He said bells alert bears to a human's presence, which encourages the animals to avoid the area ^[1].

Shinbo said he saw three bears in different locations while driving along a forest road to go foraging ^[2]. His warnings come as local governments issue similar alerts. The Toyama Prefectural Public Relations Department said people may encounter bears while gathering wild vegetables in the spring and urged caution ^[4].

Data from Toyama Prefecture shows a significant upward trend in wildlife encounters. A disaster official from the prefecture said that last year, 1,059 bear sightings were reported, the highest number in 10 years ^[5].

While some reports vary, other data from Toyama Prefecture indicates that 20 sightings were reported during a specific period ^[6]. These sightings have been reported as recently as this week in Yatsuo Town, Toyama ^[7].

Experts suggest that the combination of seasonal hunger in bears and the tradition of spring foraging creates a high-risk environment. Using bells remains the primary recommendation for those entering forested areas to signal their presence to wildlife ^[1].