The season of appetite not just relegated to humans

I wrote earlier this week about how autumn in Japan is often called shokuyoku no aki, or "the season of appetite." It's the time for cozy meals, sweet potatoes, and all things pumpkin and chestnut, and as it turns out, humans aren't the only ones who embrace this concept. According to the Ministry of Environment, October and November are when bears eat the most as they prepare for hibernation.

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During this time, both Asiatic black bears and brown bears become more active and roam farther in search of food, and when nuts and berries are scarce they sometimes wander closer to villages and rural homes. It explains why there are more bear sightings in autumn, especially in mountainous regions. Local signs often advise making noise when walking through forests, keeping food sealed, and avoiding early morning or evening hikes.

While I'm enjoying all things sweet potato and kabocha at this time of year, somewhere nearby a bear is doing the same in its own way and stocking up for winter. I guess you could say that shokuyoku no aki really does belong to everyone!