Key facts
- A wild black bear was captured in Utsunomiya, Japan, after a multi-day search.
- 94 municipal schools in Utsunomiya were closed for two consecutive days.
- Schools remained closed for a third day due to a report of a possible second bear.
- The captured bear weighed approximately 100 kg and was tranquilized.
- Bear attacks in Japan have increased significantly, with 238 casualties in fiscal year 2025.
The Japanese city of Utsunomiya captured a wild black bear on Tuesday after a dramatic multi-day search that gripped the nation, leading to school closures and urging residents to stay indoors. All 94 municipal primary and middle schools were closed for a second straight day on Tuesday and remained closed on Wednesday due to a report of a possible second bear roaming the city. The adult bear, estimated to weigh about 100 kg (220 lbs), was eventually tranquilized with a dart gun and removed by authorities. Bear attacks have been on the rise in Japan, with a record 238 casualties reported in fiscal year 2025, including 13 deaths. Experts attribute the increase in bear activity to climate change reducing natural food sources and rural depopulation, leading bears to seek nourishment near human settlements. Three schools in Iwaki, Fukushima Prefecture, also suspended classes due to a bear sighting.