First Hiroshima City bear sightings of the year reported

It seems we may have to add a 73rd microseason to the ancient calendar that mirrors changes in nature. Bears are heading into residential areas in late spring!

Yesterday morning (May 13), several sightings of what appears to be a bear were reported in the Sendo area of Saeki Ward. According to police, three reports were received in quick succession shortly after 6 am, including “There’s something that looks like a bear, about 1 meter in length” and “There was something that looked like a bear in my yard.”

Droppings, which have yet to be identified, were discovered, but no property damage has been reported.

Today (May 14), more sightings were reported in the Misuji, near the Hiroshima City Botanical Gardens.

Three junior high schools and seven elementary schools in the surrounding areas were closed today.

One local parent said she told her kids, “School is closed, but absolutely do not leave the house.”

Police and ward officials are on patrol, equipped with bear spray, and specialist bear rangers will be conducting on-site investigations.