Ohta Seiki Struggles to Meet Demand for Robotic Bear Deterrent

A Japanese company is struggling to meet surging demand for its robotic "Monster Wolf" devices as communities across the country seek new ways to deter bears following a sharp increase in dangerous encounters. The Hokkaido-based manufacturer, Ohta Seiki, has already received approximately 50 orders this year, a figure that exceeds its typical annual production.

The unprecedented demand follows a record period for bear activity. Officials reported 13 fatal bear attacks in a recent one-year period, more than double the previous high. Nationwide bear sightings during that time exceeded 50,000, also more than double the prior record. The animals have been frequently documented entering homes, roaming near schools, and causing disturbances in stores and hot spring resorts. The number of bears captured and culled also reached a new high.

Introduced in 2016, the Monster Wolf is a motion-activated, solar-powered device designed to scare away wildlife. It features flashing red LED eyes, a moving head, and blue underlighting to enhance its silhouette. When triggered, it emits a variety of loud sounds, including wolf howls audible up to a kilometer away. The base model costs around 3,000...