Concern Over Increasing Wild Animal Encounters
A recent survey conducted by Cross Marketing has drawn attention to the escalating encounters with wild animals across Japan. The study involved participants aged between 20 and 69 years and was carried out from October 31 to November 1, 2025. With over 1,100 valid responses, the survey reflects a growing concern among the populace regarding the presence of potentially harmful wildlife such as bears, boars, and rodents in urban areas.
Key Findings
According to the results, about 68% of respondents expressed that they felt encounters with nuisance animals had indeed increased over the past year. The creatures identified as potential nuisances, particularly by respondents in older age groups, include bears and boars, which were noted by 50% of participants, while 40% pointed to rats and monkeys.
Interestingly, the perception of wildlife encounters seems to vary significantly with age. Among participants in their 60s, an astonishing 80.9% reported an increase in sightings or incidents involving these animals. In contrast, only 26.7% of respondents believed that sightings in their immediate surroundings had also risen, suggesting that while nuisance animals might be a concern on a broader scale, personal experiences may differ.
When asked about wildlife they frequently encountered in their daily lives, common sightings predominantly included crows, pigeons, and sparrows, with more than half of participants reporting these encounters. Moreover, the acknowledgment of experiencing issues with wildlife, such as crows scavenging through garbage, was reportedly common.
Preventive Measures
The survey also inquired about the preventive measures people believe they should take regarding wild animals. Responses indicated a clear awareness of the need for caution, including:
- - Avoiding close encounters when wild animals are sighted.
- - Securely covering garbage areas with nets or cages.
- - Ensuring organic waste is disposed of properly, adhering to local waste disposal rules.
- - Refraining from intentionally feeding wildlife.
- - Avoiding entering animal habitats whenever possible.
These precautions were highlighted by more than 30% of respondents, reflecting a widespread recognition of the threats posed by these animals.
Conclusion
As cities continue to grow and encroach upon natural habitats, the survey underscores a pressing need for public awareness and proactive measures against wildlife interactions. Cross Marketing’s findings illuminate a crucial dialogue on coexistence with nature, advocating for safety and respect for all living beings in our shared environments.
For further details, please refer to the full report on Cross Marketing's
website.
Survey Overview
The survey was conducted using an online research method and included respondents across all 47 prefectures in Japan, showcasing a comprehensive understanding of the current wildlife encounter scenario. CEO Mikio Igarashi notes that the rise in wildlife sightings, particularly in urban settings, merits continuous discussion and strategy development to ensure community safety and ecological balance.
For more information, please contact:
Public Relations: Marketing Department
Tel: 03-6859-1192
E-mail:
[email protected]