Fauna
Mammal

Japanese Black Bear

Ursus thibetanus japonicus

Also known as Japanese Moon Bear, Moon Bear, Tsukino-waguma

Japanese black bears spend much of their time in forest canopies, using strong claws to build platform nests in beech and oak trees where they feed on nuts. Recognizable by the bright white V-shaped patch across their chest, these agile climbers hibernate through severe winter months in hollow trees or rock crevices. As key seed dispersers, they play a vital ecological role in the temperate montane forests of Honshu and Shikoku.

Forest DwellerMammalOmnivore
Japanese Black Bear reference
(c) japanbearandforestsociety's file. japanbearandforestsociety, some rights reserved (CC BY-SA) · cc-by-sa
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VulnerableConservation statusIUCN Red List categoriesLCNTVUENCREWEXVulnerableRed List categories, explained →
Key facts
Diet & preyBeechnuts and acorns, Berries and grubs, Plant shoots
ThreatsHabitat fragmentation, human-wildlife conflict, poor mast crop years
HabitatsDeciduous and mixed montane forests
Life span15–25 years
Classification
  1. FamilyUrsidae
  2. SpeciesUrsus thibetanus japonicus
Range & activity
Range data is not available yet.
Safe observation
Interaction riskHigh
  1. Low
  2. Moderate
  3. High
  4. Very high
Why interaction risk is high
Can charge defensively if startled; maintain a safe distance and make noise on forest trails.
Why it is dangerous
Powerful jaws and heavy claws can inflict severe traumatic injuries during defensive charges or mother-cub defense.
How to recognize a risky encounter
Medium-sized black bear with a conspicuous white V-shaped patch across the chest.
What to do
Never approach a bear or run; back away slowly while speaking in a low, calm voice.
What to notice
Recognized by a dark black coat, light chest patch, and preferred beech-oak forest habitat.
Support conservation
Stay on marked trails, pack out all food refuse, and report sightings to local rangers.
Responsible observation
  • Make Noise: Carry a bear bell or talk loudly when hiking dense forest trails to avoid startling a bear.
  • Keep Distance: Back away slowly without running if sighted, keeping your eyes on the animal.
  • Secure Food: Store garbage and food scraps in bear-proof containers near campsites.
Related species
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