Japan's rising bear attacks: Can AI come to its rescue?

Japan is facing a mounting challenge with an increasing number of bear attacks on humans, prompting the government to explore innovative solutions. In response to the alarming statistics of bear-related incidents, plans are underway to implement artificial intelligence (AI) systems aimed at early detection and warning.

The Japanese government, in collaboration with local authorities, is spearheading a pioneering effort to trial an AI-powered bear detection system. The system’s primary objective is to swiftly identify wild bears through surveillance camera footage and promptly alert relevant agencies to mitigate potential threats.

This proactive measure is slated to commence its pilot phase in Toyama Prefecture during the upcoming summer months, marking a significant step towards enhancing public safety in bear-prone regions.

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Rising bear attacks

The urgency to address the surge in bear attacks is underscored by the startling statistics from the previous fiscal year. With a staggering 198 bear-related incidents recorded across 19 prefectures in the last twelve months alone, including six deaths and 219 injuries, concerns over public safety have reached unprecedented levels.

Factors contributing to this alarming trend include dwindling food sources for bears, attributed to poor crop yields, and encroachment into human habitats.

Experts attribute the surge in bear encounters to the inconsistent availability of staple foods for bears, coupled with rural depopulation, reported The Guardian. Additionally, a decline in the number of children in rural areas, whose active presence typically deters bears, is considered another contributing factor.

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Bear sightings, referred to as “kuma” in Japan, are commonplace, particularly in the northern regions of the country. These areas, characterised by expansive mountain ranges, dense foliage, and pristine rivers, offer an optimal habitat for bears. Abundant food sources such as acorns, beechnuts, fruits, and insects contribute to their thriving population in these regions.

Recent incidents, such as the bear attack captured on dashcam footage in Hokkaido, underscore the urgency of addressing Japan’s bear-human conflicts.

Crazy dashcam footage of a bear attacking motorists in Hokkaido, Japan: bear attacks have been on the rise in recent years and hit a record high in 2023. pic.twitter.com/6OtxhHK8dv

— Jeffrey J. Hall 🇯🇵🇺🇸 (@mrjeffu) April 29, 2024

The encounter, showcases the formidable size and speed of Ussuri brown bears.

The bear population in Japan is on the rise, as indicated by recent estimates. One estimate suggests that the number of black bears has surged to approximately 44,000, a significant increase from the estimated 15,000 in 2012. It’s worth noting that this figure excludes Hokkaido, where approximately 12,000 Ussuri brown bears are believed to reside. The population of Ussuri brown bears in Hokkaido has more than doubled since 1990.

How will AI be used?

The envisioned AI system represents a pivotal innovation in bear management strategies. By leveraging AI algorithms, the system will analyse real-time camera feeds from governmental, municipal, and private networks to swiftly detect bear movements and alert relevant authorities. This proactive approach aims to prevent potential human-bear conflicts by enabling prompt response measures.

If proven effective during the trial phase in Toyama Prefecture, the AI-based bear detection system is poised for nationwide deployment. With Japan’s diverse topography and varying bear populations, the expansion of this initiative holds promise in safeguarding communities across the country from bear-related risks.

In parallel with the AI trial, additional initiatives are underway to bolster bear monitoring and mitigation efforts. Hanamaki City in Iwate Prefecture is implementing a surveillance system utilising 30 cameras along rivers, known bear habitats. This integrated approach combines technological innovation with community involvement to enhance bear management practices while minimising harm to both humans and bears.

Through collaborative efforts between government agencies, local communities, and technological innovators, Japan is poised to navigate its bear-human coexistence with greater vigilance and resilience.

With inputs from agencies