Japanese town deploys Monster Wolf robots to deter bears

Officials say there have been no bear encounters since arrival of robots in wolves' clothing

A Japanese town has deployed robot wolves in an effort to scare away bears that have become an increasingly dangerous nuisance in the countryside.

The town of Takikawa, on the northern island of Hokkaido, purchased and installed two Monster Wolf robots after bears were found roaming neighbourhoods in September. City officials said there had been no bear encounters since.