- Bear attacks were a significant problem in Japan in 2025, prompting preventative measures.
- The town of Ishinomaki is deploying drones equipped with bear-repellent spray to safely deter bears.
- Larger, more potent drones will be used in real incidents, operated by a contracted company.

A: Did you hear about something crazy happening in Ishinomaki?

B: No, what is it? Bears again? Remember last year?

A: Yep! Bear attacks were a big deal. Remember "bear" was the kanji of the year?

B: Ugh, yeah! Scary! So, what's new? Are they still a problem?

A: Well, things calmed down a little with winter, but they’ll be back in the spring.

B: Oh no! What are they doing about it?

A: They're using… drone pepper spray! Seriously!

B: Drone pepper spray?! That's wild! How does that even work?

A: They're using drones with cameras and GPS. They spray pepper spray to scare the bears away.

B: Wow! Did I read that they used a person dressed as a bear for the demonstration?

A: Haha, yes! Of course, they did! It's Japan!

B: So, it’s like, the drone operators stay safe far away, and the drone does the work?

A: Exactly! The drones for real situations will be bigger and carry more spray.

B: That’s pretty clever! Do you think it’ll actually work?

A: The mayor seems pretty happy about it. He says they can now send drones when bears show up!