**Black Bear Hunt Continues in Utsunomiya as Schools Remain Closed**
The hunt for a black bear in Utsunomiya, Japan, is ongoing as authorities respond to a series of sightings that have raised safety concerns in the city. All 94 municipal primary and middle schools in Utsunomiya were closed for the second consecutive day on Tuesday, reflecting the seriousness of the situation.
The adult bear, estimated to weigh around 100 kg (220 lbs), was last spotted early Tuesday morning approximately 700 meters (765 yards) from a university campus. This bear is believed to be the same one that was seen multiple times over the weekend, marking the first recorded bear sighting in Utsunomiya, which is located about 100 km (60 miles) north of Tokyo.
The increase in bear sightings and encounters has been a growing concern across Japan, particularly in urban areas. This year, the Japanese government established a task force aimed at mitigating the risks associated with bear attacks, which have reportedly risen. In the 2025 fiscal year, the environment ministry recorded a staggering 238 bear-related incidents, including 13 fatalities.
Asiatic black bears, the species involved in these sightings, are classified as vulnerable on a global scale. However, their population in Japan has seen a significant increase, reportedly tripling since 2012. This rise is attributed to a decline in hunting practices, which has allowed bear populations to flourish.
Utsunomiya city officials have mobilized a team comprising municipal and prefectural staff, the fire department, and members of the local hunters’ association to locate the bear. The strategy for dealing with the bear will depend on its location when found; officials may choose to tranquilize, shoot, or trap the animal for later release.
Experts have pointed to climate change as a contributing factor to the increased interactions between bears and humans. Changes in climate have adversely affected the natural food sources for bears, such as acorns and beechnuts. Additionally, the depopulation of rural regions and the rise of abandoned farmland have led bears to venture closer to human settlements in search of food.
As the hunt continues, local authorities are urging residents to remain vigilant and report any bear sightings to ensure public safety. The situation in Utsunomiya serves as a reminder of the challenges posed by wildlife in urban environments and the need for effective management strategies to balance human safety with wildlife conservation.