IV. The progress and issues on the Specified Wildlife Conservation and Management Plan for Japanese black bears in the western Chugoku Mountains, Japan

Abstract

The Wildlife Conservation and Management Plan for Japanese black bears (Ursus thibetanus) in the western Chugoku area has been enacted in three periods (2003–06, 2007–11, and 2012–16) by Hiroshima prefecture, Shimane prefecture and Yamaguchi prefecture under common policy. Arranging staffs called Experts in charge of Wild Animals Damage Prevention in Shimane and Bear Rangers in Hiroshima and Yamaguchi, these prefectures have responded promptly to the call of encounter or capture of bears. We believe these community-based initiatives made residents’ anxiety clear and enabled staffs to build relationship of trust with residents. Further research and development of forestry activity method from medium- and long-term perspectives are needed to consider more detailed habitat management. In addition, deepening their collaboration, these three prefectures need to build consistent management system effectively to continue monitoring bear population, preventing bears from capturing by mistake and raising residents’ awareness.