Hungry Bears Attack Halloween Pumpkin

Oct 27, 2026 | News On Japan

HOKKAIDO - A Halloween pumpkin displayed at a nursery school in Esashi, Hokkaido, was found smashed and partially eaten on October 25, in what police believe was a bear attack, with similar damage reported at a nearby home.

The pumpkin, a handmade Halloween decoration prepared by nursery school staff, was discovered badly broken at around 7 a.m. on October 25.

At a nearby residence, branches of an apple tree were also broken, and apples that had not yet been harvested were eaten.

Police believe a bear was responsible for both incidents and have stepped up patrols in the surrounding neighborhood to prevent further encounters.

As a precaution, children attending the nursery school will remain indoors throughout the week, with outdoor activities in the schoolyard suspended over concerns that the bear could return.

Source: FNN

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