Japan Turns to AI Drones and Robot Wolves as Attacks Fuel Growing Bear Problem

Japan is expanding the use of technology to address a growing bear problem, with AI drones, automated detection systems and robot wolves being deployed or tested as bear attacks and sightings reach record levels.

Japan Faces Record Bear Sightings and Attacks

Preliminary figures from Japan's Environment Ministry showed 50,776 bear sightings across the country during fiscal 2025, according to Nippon.com. The same period recorded 216 bear attacks, resulting in 238 injuries and 13 deaths, with both figures reaching record highs.

Poor harvests of acorns and other forest foods have been identified as one factor behind the increase, while abandoned farmland and changes in rural communities have also made it easier for bears to move closer to populated areas.

AI Drones Expand Bear Detection Efforts

AI drones are being introduced as a way to search for bears while keeping people away from potentially dangerous encounters. In Utsunomiya, Tochigi Prefecture, authorities used a drone equipped with a thermal-imaging camera after repeated bear sightings near residential and commercial areas.

According to the Philippine News Agency, similar drones are being used in other parts of Japan, including Yamagata Prefecture, where loudspeaker-equipped drones patrol areas near school routes and broadcast warning sounds intended to deter bears.

Drone technology is also being developed for direct deterrence. Terra Drone has developed a remotely operated system capable of spraying a pungent liquid derived from chili peppers at bears from a distance.

Robot Wolves Become a Popular Bear Deterrent

Japan is also turning to robot wolves as communities search for ways to keep bears away from populated areas. The Monster Wolf, produced by Hokkaido-based Ohta Seiki, uses flashing red eyes, movement and more than 50 recorded sounds to frighten wildlife.

The Japan Times reported that the manufacturer received around 50 orders in 2026, more than it normally receives during an entire year. The machines are being purchased by farmers, golf courses and other operators in areas where encounters with wildlife have become a concern.

The company is also working on mobile versions that can move along designated routes and exploring the use of AI cameras in future models.

AI Bear Detection Tracks Potential Encounters

AI bear detection is being developed beyond drones and stationary cameras. Researchers in Japan are using artificial intelligence to assess the likelihood of bear encounters across specific areas by analyzing environmental and historical data.

DW reported that one system developed by a Sophia University researcher can estimate bear encounter risks within one-square-kilometer areas, with reported accuracy reaching about 70%.

Japan's growing use of AI drones, robot wolves and AI bear detection systems comes as authorities seek additional tools for detecting bears earlier and keeping them away from communities amid record bear attacks.

Originally published on Itech Post