How a Japanese prefecture is managing rising bear population with microchips

Hyogo prefecture in western Japan is implementing a novel bear management program to address a rising bear population. This initiative, which began in 2003, utilizes microchips implanted in captured bears to estimate population levels. The data gathered from these microchips helps Hyogo prefecture determine an appropriate population size and guide culling decisions, aiming to balance conservation efforts with population control. Hyogo prefecture states it is the first in Japan to employ this method for population assessment and management. The program is a response to increasing bear sightings across the country and calls for more effective countermeasures.