Raccoon Infestation in Japan

SOURCE www.foxnews.com
Japan is facing a significant raccoon infestation issue due to the import of raccoons as pets following the popularity of an anime in the 1970s. The raccoons have caused millions of dollars in agricultural damage and are now found in all 47 prefectures of Japan.

Key Points

  • Raccoons were imported to Japan as pets after the popularity of the anime 'Rascal the Raccoon'
  • Raccoons have caused significant agricultural damage in Japan
  • Efforts to combat the raccoon infestation have been ineffective due to their intelligence
  • Raccoons are now found in all 47 prefectures of Japan

Pros

  • Awareness of the consequences of keeping exotic pets
  • Efforts being made to combat the raccoon infestation

Cons

  • Millions of dollars in agricultural damage
  • Difficulty in eradicating the raccoon population due to their intelligence