The Asa Zoological Park in Hiroshima, Japan, recently conducted a unique emergency drill: a simulated bear escape. On Sunday, a zoo employee, dressed in a bear costume, played the role of an escaped bear, allowing staff to practice their containment procedures. This annual drill, witnessed by the public, provides valuable training for handling potential animal escapes.
The Mock Escape Scenario
This year’s scenario involved a male bear escaping its enclosure after a hypothetical earthquake caused a tree to fall and damage the cage. The employee, despite the brown bear costume, represented one of the zoo’s Japanese black bears (Ursus thibetanus japonicus), a subspecies of the Asian black bear.
Containment Procedures
Approximately 20 zoo employees and veterinarians participated in the drill. They utilized barricades, nets, and even a rake to corner the “bear.” The team then simulated tranquilizing the escaped animal, wrapping it in a net, and transporting it in a van. You can see a video of the drill from Hiroshima News TSS here.
Real-World Bear Escapes
While rare, zoo bear escapes do occur. In February 2024, an Andean bear named Ben escaped his enclosure twice at the Saint Louis Zoo. Ben was subsequently relocated to the Gladys Porter Zoo in Texas, which offers a more secure habitat. You can read more about Ben’s escapes here and his relocation here.
The Plight of Japanese Black Bears
While the zoo’s drill was a lighthearted exercise, wild Japanese black bears face serious threats. Deforestation and hunting have significantly reduced their population, with fewer than 10,000 estimated to remain in the wild. Learn more about the conservation status of Japanese black bears here. The smallest populations are particularly vulnerable and face potential extinction within the next two decades. More information on the endangered Shikoku Japanese black bear population can be found here.
Conclusion
The Asa Zoological Park’s annual bear escape drill provides essential training for staff, ensuring they are prepared to handle potential emergencies. While this particular drill was a simulation, it highlights the importance of preparedness and the ongoing conservation efforts needed to protect vulnerable species like the Japanese black bear.
