A bear described by wildlife experts as 'extremely intelligent' is evading capture in rural Japan after attacking four people. The animal, believed to be a male Asian black bear, has been spotted over a wide area demonstrating an uncanny ability to avoid traps and patrols. It has scaled fences with unusual agility and used back roads during quiet hours.
Local officials are baffled. The bear's behaviour suggests tactical awareness. It is not panicking.
It is adapting. Residents have been told to stay indoors. Schools are closed.
Hunters have been mobilised but the bear remains at large. The incident has raised new questions about human-wildlife conflict in Japan's shrinking countryside.
