Robot Werewolves Guard Japan as Bear Attacks Surge

Amid record bear attacks in Japan, authorities are deploying Ohta Seiki’s solar-powered Monster Wolf robot scarecrows to deter wildlife, using motion sensors, flashing LEDs and a library of over 50 threatening sounds. Priced around 500,000 yen, the devices are in high demand with plans for wheel-mounted and handheld versions. Scientists attribute the surge to a growing bear population and a poor acorn harvest, while past measures included deploying soldiers and safety advisories as long-term deterrents.