How to avoid encountering brown bears in the wilderness
In Hokkaido, there is a possibility of encountering a brown bear anywhere in the wild.
Many of the injuries caused by brown bears occur in mountains and fields.
When entering the wilderness to hike or to pick wild vegetables or mushrooms, be sure to follow the following basic rules to avoid encountering brown bears.
Notes on outdoor activities
Make noise
Brown bears are sensitive to sounds and smells. In most cases, they will notice the approach of a human and run away before you notice them. Wear something that makes noise, such as a bear bell. In areas with poor visibility, let brown bears know of your presence by clapping your hands or blowing a whistle.
Go with other people
Talking with other people is an easy way to alert brown bears of your presence. Stay close to others when hiking in the mountains.
Go in bright daylight
Be especially careful in the early morning and evening when brown bears are most active. You also need to be careful during times of heavy fog or rain, as they make it more difficult for bears to notice people.
Always take your food and garbage home with you
It‘s best to avoid foods with strong smells as they may attract brown bears. If you dump or bury food or garbage in the wild, they will eat it and learn the taste. Once bears have acquired a taste for these foods, they start to behave in dangerous ways toward people in order to obtain more food. Creating habits like this puts the next visitor at risk.
Feeding brown bears is prohibited under the Hokkaido Ordinance on Conservation of Biodiversity.
If you see bear droppings or footprints, turn back
This is a sign that there are active brown bears in the area. Leave immediately.
Check information on brown bear sightings in advance
Check with the local municipality about the brown bear situation before heading out. Avoid entering areas where there are reports of brown bears or signs warning of their presence.
It‘s best to avoid foods with strong smells as they may attract brown bears. If you dump or bury food or garbage in the wild, they will eat it and learn the taste. Once bears have acquired a taste for these foods, they start to behave in dangerous ways toward people in order to obtain more food. Creating habits like this puts the next visitor at risk.
Feeding brown bears is prohibited under the Hokkaido Ordinance on Conservation of Biodiversity.
