Japan has deployed wolf robots to combat bear attacks on humans — IE
Authorities and farmers in Japan have begun actively using special wolf-like robots to scare away wild bears in order to protect the public from aggressive predators.
This is reported by Interesting Engineering.
The main reason for these drastic measures is the catastrophic increase in the number of encounters between animals and humans, which has been recorded across the country.
The mechanical devices are being installed near farms and residential areas where the highest activity of forest dwellers has been recorded.
Since the beginning of 2025, the number of bear-human encounters has risen sharply, reaching catastrophic levels: more than 50,000 cases of bear attacks on humans have been recorded nationwide.
According to official data, 13 people have been killed and over 200 injured in such attacks. This is the largest increase in bear-related fatalities in the country.
As a result, demand is rising for mechanical wolves manufactured by Ohta Seiki, a company based in Hokkaido.
The robotic system resembles a dangerous predator and runs on solar power, providing round-the-clock security for the area.
The design consists of a sturdy metal frame covered in faux fur and features a realistic head with an open mouth and fangs.
Built-in infrared sensors instantly react to any approaching large objects.
When the device detects movement, it switches to a threatening “attack” mode: it begins to swivel its head from side to side and growl. At this moment, a blue LED on the tail illuminates to enhance the visual deterrent effect.
The robotic system also features a speaker and over 50 random audio recordings. This was designed to prevent wild animals from getting used to the robot repeller.
The device’s sound signals are extremely varied—ranging from a piercing 90-decibel wolf howl to recordings of human voices. The cost of one such mechanical “scarecrow” is $4,000.
Originally created to combat wild boars and deer, the technology has also proven effective against brown and black bears.
Because each robot is handmade, the manufacturer is currently unable to keep up with the massive volume of new orders. Buyers have to wait several months for delivery.
The environmental crisis in Japan is linked to urban sprawl, which is leading to the depletion of the natural food supply for predators in the forests.
YouTube expands access to an AI-powered deepfake detection tool
An overclocker set a world record by overclocking an Intel processor to 9.2 GHz
