Bear

Japan has deployed military troops to its northern region of Akita after a sharp rise in bear attacks left communities fearful and struggling to respond. The rare operation marks the first time in years that the Self-Defense Forces (SDF) have been called in to support wildlife control efforts.

Authorities in Kazuno, a small mountain town surrounded by dense forests, requested military support this week after bear sightings and attacks reached record levels.

According to Japan’s Environment Ministry, more than 100 people have been mauled by bears since April, with at least 12 fatalities, the highest toll ever recorded. Nearly two-thirds …