Two bears spotted in residential area of Iwate prefecture

The bears were seen in a persimmon tree in Iwaizumi Town, Iwate Prefecture on Monday. They were still there several hours later. No one has been injured. Local police said two bears were spotted in the same tree last week.Town officials said they cannot be shot with hunting rifles due to the risk to the community.

The tree is surrounded by homes and is close to an elementary school. The school has reportedly asked parents and guardians to take their children home. Police have closed down roads in case the bears get excited and run away.