News Brown Bear Akkeshi Town, Hokkaido, Hokkaido Jan 1, 2026, 02:00 PM

Description

On 2026-01-01 in Akkeshi Town, Hokkaido, footprints believed to be from a bear—about 30 cm long and 20 cm wide—were found, extending roughly 20 meters. Police said the size is comparable to the large bear 'OSO18' that had been culled previously and urged residents to remain cautious.

Note: Official sources provide information in Japanese only. This description has been machine translated for your convenience.

Summary

On New Year's Day 2026, large bear footprints were discovered in Akkeshi Town, Hokkaido—about 30 cm long and 20 cm wide, and stretching some 20 meters. Additional tracks (about 15 cm wide) were found elsewhere in town; authorities warned residents because the size resembles the previously culled bear 'OSO18'. Experts say reduced food availability and rising bear numbers may be causing more bears to remain active through winter.

Bear Type

Brown Bear

Number of Bears

1

Provider Type

News

Date & Time

Thursday, January 1, 2026 at 02:00 PM

Address

Coordinates

43.051951, 144.847369

Sources