TOKYO, May 21 (Xinhua) -- Local authorities suspected a brown bear attack after four calves were found dead Tuesday morning at a ranch in Hokkaido, northern Japan, local media reported.
The bodies of three calves were found outside their cages after being dragged out, while one was found inside its cage at the ranch in Nakashumbetsu district of Betsukai town, Kyodo News reported.
The discovery of what appears to be bear paw prints in the vicinity has prompted police to urge caution in the area. Local officials have set up traps on concern that the bear may return to the site, the report said.
An additional four calves, still in their cages, were found injured, it added.
According to the police, a total of 12 calves were being kept in individual cages at the specialized ranch, which raises calves entrusted from nearby farms.
Last July, authorities put down a brown bear codenamed OSO18, which had attacked 66 cows in the eastern Hokkaido area since 2019. Unlike the recent incident, OSO18 had been eating the cows it preyed upon. ■