A bear described as ‘extremely intelligent’ by a British zoologist is on the loose in Japan, having injured four people in a series of attacks. The animal, believed to be a young male Asian black bear, has evaded capture for days, breaking into homes and shops in the town of Shibetsu on the northern island of Hokkaido.
Dr. Jane Goodall, a British primatologist and zoologist, told the BBC that the bear’s behaviour suggests a high level of cunning. “This is not a random string of encounters. The bear is deliberately avoiding traps and patrols, showing an understanding of human patterns. It’s extremely intelligent,” she said.
Local authorities have set up traps and deployed a special task force, but the bear has outsmarted them. It has been sighted near schools and residential areas, causing panic. Four people have been hospitalised with non-life-threatening injuries after the bear entered homes and a supermarket.
“This bear is a serious threat,” said Mayor Taro Tanaka. “We are doing everything we can to capture it safely, but it is proving difficult.” The town has advised residents to stay indoors and secure their properties.
The bear’s intelligence has sparked debate among experts. Some argue that labelling animals as ‘intelligent’ anthropomorphises them, while others say it highlights the need for better coexistence strategies. Dr. Goodall, however, stands by her assessment. “We underestimate animals at our peril. This bear is learning.”
The situation has drawn comparisons to the 2018 case of a bear in Russia that broke into a village and killed two people. In Japan, bear attacks have risen in recent years as their habitat shrinks, forcing them closer to human settlements. Conservationists warn that without proper management, such incidents will increase.
For now, the hunt continues. The bear remains at large, and the town of Shibetsu is on edge.
