A bear described by authorities as ‘extremely intelligent’ is evading capture in northern Japan after injuring four people. Sources confirm the animal has torn through farm fences, raided food stores, and slipped past multiple traplines set by local hunters. The bear, thought to be a Ussuri brown bear (Ursus arctos lasiotus), is believed to have developed a pattern of avoiding human detection.
One official told reporters: “It’s learning our tactics. This isn’t random behaviour. It’s systematic.
” Attacks occurred across a wide area in Hokkaido prefecture near the town of Shinhidaka. Victims include an elderly farmer and three forest workers. All are hospitalised with non-life-threatening injuries.
Prefecture officials have posted warnings and closed hiking trails. Hunters have been granted special permits to use nighttime optics, a measure rarely approved. The bear is estimated to weigh over 200 kilograms.
Uncovered documents suggest similar incidents in the region have increased 40% since 2020, coinciding with shrinking natural habitats and declining food sources. Authorities refuse to say whether they will kill the bear if caught. Critics say this is a cover-up of a larger environmental crisis.
The town’s mayor has called for an investigation into forestry management practices. The bear remains at large.
