Japan 'robot wolves' in high demand to scare off bears
Yahoo • • world
Key Points:
- A Japanese company, Ohta Seiki, is experiencing a surge in orders for its "Monster Wolf" robot wolves, designed to scare away wild animals after a record number of fatal bear attacks in Japan last year.
- The animatronic devices, featuring flashing red eyes and howling sounds, have attracted around 50 orders this year alone, exceeding the usual annual demand, primarily from farmers, golf course operators, and rural workers.
- In 2025-2026, bears killed 13 people in Japan, more than double the previous record, with over 50,000 sightings nationwide, causing significant safety and property concerns.
- The "Monster Wolf" costs around $4,000 and uses recorded sounds, LED lights, and movement to deter animals; the company is developing new versions with wheels, hand-held models, and AI cameras to enhance effectiveness.
- Ohta Seiki introduced the product in 2016 initially for agricultural protection, and it has gained recognition as an effective wildlife deterrent amid increasing bear-related incidents.