Japan's bear-scaring wolf robot gets adorable 80-decibel plush version

Japan's innovative bear-scare technology is getting a cuddly makeover. Ohta Seiki, the Hokkaido-based company behind the original Monster Wolf robot, is preparing to launch a smaller, plush version that maintains the same intimidating audio capabilities while offering enhanced portability.

The new Monster Wolf Mini measures just 20 centimeters long and resembles a stuffed animal, but don't let its cute appearance fool you. When activated by remote control, the plushie's eyes glow red and it emits sounds at 80 decibels – comparable to heavy city traffic or a garbage disposal. The device can produce over 50 different sounds, including standard growls and howls, gunshots, and even verbal threats like "You won't be spared!"

From stationary guardian to portable protector

The original Monster Wolf, first released in 2018, has proven effective at keeping bears away from human settlements and protecting crops from deer and other wildlife. When its sensors detect approaching animals, the robot's LED eyes glow red and it plays random selections from its extensive sound library at 90-decibel volumes. More than 300 units have been deployed across farms and local governments throughout Japan.

However, the original model weighs 20 kilograms and functions primarily as a stationary device. Ohta Seiki has received increasing demand for a more portable version from construction companies, surveyors working in mountainous areas, and camping enthusiasts who need protection from wildlife while on the move.

Technical specifications and production

The Monster Wolf Mini is battery-powered and comes with a wireless remote that works from 10 to 20 meters away. The plush body will be manufactured by a company in Bibai, a city in Hokkaido, while the internal electronics will be outsourced to specialized producers.

Company President Yuji Ohta has stated that the price target is under 10,000 yen (approximately $65), making it accessible to individual consumers while maintaining the effectiveness of the original design. The company is also developing an even smaller version primarily aimed at those seeking alternatives to personal alarms or whistles, as well as plush toy enthusiasts.

Rising bear threats drive innovation

Recent years have seen a significant increase in bear-related incidents across Japan. In Hokkaido alone, agricultural damage linked to brown bears reached a record 354 million yen (about $2.31 million) in 2024. The problem extends beyond crop damage – bears that become habituated to human environments pose serious safety risks to communities.

Following recent bear attacks, orders for the original Monster Wolf have increased substantially. However, noise concerns have prevented widespread deployment in residential areas, as the 90-decibel output can disturb neighbors and violate local noise ordinances.

Advanced features and future developments

The mini version addresses this limitation through directional speakers that can control the range over which sounds are delivered. Last year, Ohta Seiki conducted tests in collaboration with the city of Sapporo, Hokkaido University of Science, and other partners to evaluate the effectiveness of these directional speakers. Cameras attached to the devices captured footage of bears and deer fleeing after hearing the sounds, confirming the technology's effectiveness.

The company is also exploring integration with artificial intelligence-powered camera systems that can identify bears. When a bear is detected, the camera would send a signal to trigger the warning sounds, creating a more targeted and efficient deterrent system.

This evolution from a heavy, stationary robot to a portable, plush version represents a significant advancement in wildlife management technology. By combining the psychological impact of a threatening predator with the convenience of a handheld device, Ohta Seiki is addressing both the practical needs of outdoor workers and the safety concerns of communities living near bear habitats.

The Monster Wolf Mini exemplifies how Japanese innovation continues to find creative solutions to age-old problems, transforming a utilitarian security device into something that's both effective and endearing – a wolf in sheep's clothing, or rather, a wolf in plush's clothing.