Following a bear sighting in Sapporo, officials authorized a hunting season on urban bears posing a threat. Municipal mayors will decide when to use hunting rifles, starting in autumn.
The Environment Ministry issued guidelines justifying shooting wild animals, including bears. Previously restricted, gun use in urban areas is now permitted at the mayors' discretion, effective September 1st, under specific safety conditions.
These guidelines detail preparations, like hunter collaboration and safety measures, including preventing stray bullets. They also address specific scenarios, with on-site training planned.
Bears are frequently seen in residential areas. The Hokkaido hunters’ association supports the change but worries about hunters' liability. They hope for pre-emptive discussions to address these concerns.
A Sapporo official noted the regulation's potential to simplify action, but also highlighted concerns about citizen safety and the need for caution when authorizing bear shootings.
3 Comments
Donatello
This is just the beginning of increased violence in urban areas. The government needs to take responsibility of their actions.
Leonardo
It's good to see they're focusing on safety and preventing accidents. Collaboration is key.
Michelangelo
The Environment Ministry is complicit. They should be protecting animals, not authorizing their culling.