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Bark stripping behavior in relation to Fagaceae mast production and diet in the Asiatic black bear (Ursus thibetanus)

ABSTRACT Bark stripping damages of conifer trees by Asiatic black bears (Ursus thibetanus) are confirmed in most areas inhibited by them in Japan. In this study, we conducted a field survey in Shirakawa Village, Gifu Prefecture, Japan, from 2008 to 2016 to investigate the seasonal and annual variation of bark-stripping of Japanese cedar (Cryptomeria japonica) by Asiatic black bears in relation to mast production of Fagaceae family and diet. We found that bark stripping occurred from May to July, during which sap flow in the cambium layers is high. Bark stripping frequency on Japanese cedar was negatively associated with mast production of Fagaceae hard mast. Fleshly fruit of Japanese bird cherry does not appear to affect bark stripping in contrast to other areas. Our results suggested that foods that affect frequency of bark stripping may differ among regions.