Japan has introduced an unusual but effective method to prevent bear encounters in rural areas — drones that bark like dogs. The move comes as bear sightings rise across several regions, increasing concerns for public safety.
The drones are equipped with speakers that emit loud dog-barking sounds, a noise that typically scares bears and drives them away from populated zones. Local authorities say the technology helps patrol remote villages and farmland where bears often wander in search of food.
Officials explained that traditional deterrents like fences and warning bells are no longer enough, as bear populations have grown and their movements have become less predictable. The barking drones allow teams to cover wide areas quickly and reach places that are difficult for humans to access.
In many regions of northern Japan, especially in Hokkaido and parts of Honshu, bear encounters have increased sharply. Several attacks have also been reported in recent years, prompting communities to look for innovative safety solutions.
Residents say the new drones provide a sense of relief, especially during early mornings and evenings when bear movement is most common. Wildlife experts add that the method is humane and does not harm the animals, simply encouraging them to return to the forests.
Authorities plan to expand the use of barking drones if the trial continues to show positive results, marking a modern approach to managing human-wildlife conflict in Japan.
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