Amid an increase in bear attacks across Japan, the city of Nayoro in Hokkaido has resorted to using drones to monitor sightings and help guide residents to safety in emergency situations, as well as facilitate the swift removal of the animals.
The Environment Ministry reported a record number of 219 people being attacked by bears across the country in fiscal 2023, which ended in March.
In the current fiscal year, there had already been nationwide attacks involving 34 victims, including two fatalities, by the end of June. The Nayoro Police Station recorded over 30 bear sightings within the city in the first five months of this year, about 10 more than the same period of last year.
In response, the city in early June signed an agreement with the police and the Nayoro Driving School, which operates a drone academy, to deploy the uncrewed aircraft to monitor bear sightings.
Under this agreement, the municipal government will consult with the police when a bear sighting is reported. there is a threat to human life, the city can request the driving school to deploy the drones — equipped with cameras and speakers — to locate the bears and help direct residents to safety.
The use of drones is also expected to enhance the safety of police officers. Previously, officers rushing to bear sightings risked being attacked by animals hiding in thickets. Now, with drone footage, police can monitor bear movements from the safety of their patrol cars.
Moreover, the drones’ video feed will aid hunters engaged for bear culling. While hunters are typically restricted to specific areas for such efforts, the police can issue directives to extend these boundaries using the drones’ feed, allowing for more effective collaboration.
“The introduction of drones has expanded our options for ensuring the safety of residents and officers,”
a Nayoro police spokesperson said.
Source: Japan Times