Japan to test run AI bear detection system after sudden increase in attacks

Over the past year, Japan has seen an alarming increase in the number of bears attacking people, and authorities are concerned. According to Japan's Ministry of the Environment, more than 200 people will survive bear attacks in 2023, already more than the 158 people reported in 2020. Bears are known to live in northern Japan, but their entry into human-populated areas can be dangerous. There are several possible reasons, including climate change and an aging population. In response to this serious situation, Japan is currently preparing to test run an AI bear warning system that will track bear activity.

A pilot system that uses surveillance cameras to identify bear movements by monitoring live footage from government, municipal and private security cameras will be installed in Toyama Prefecture, in central Japan. Kyodo News reports that if a bear is tracked as it moves near people, relevant authorities, police and hunters will be immediately alerted.

In addition to these, AI is also used to monitor their behavior patterns and predict their future course of action. This experimental system is expected to be operational by summer 2024. If it proves effective, it will be rolled out to other areas where bear sightings are frequently reported.

Meanwhile, another experiment is being planned to monitor the presence of bears in Iwate Prefecture in the Tohoku region. This includes the use of automated cameras.

Bear attacks on the rise in Japan

The plan comes at a time when Japan reported around 219 bear attacks in multiple prefectures last year, including six fatalities. In addition to climate change and population growth, lack of food sources due to poor harvests are also thought to be reasons for the increase in such incidents. To monitor the animals, the city is also working with security system manufacturers to prevent animals from entering the city.

Recently, a terrifying bear attack was reported near a forested area in Hokkaido. Video shows the wild animal charging into the truck, leaving the windshield cracked in the brutal attack.

The entire incident was recorded on the truck's drive recorder. The video quickly went viral after being shared by the handle X, garnering over 20 million views and over 1.5 million likes for him.