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These are the user uploaded subtitles that are being translated: 1 00:00:00,625 --> 00:00:01,622 (logo whooshing) 2 00:00:01,622 --> 00:00:04,039 (soft music) 3 00:00:11,145 --> 00:00:12,830 (uplifting music) 4 00:00:12,830 --> 00:00:15,190 - [Narrator] On rejuvenated mountainsides 5 00:00:15,190 --> 00:00:18,243 roams one of Japan's most elusive animals. 6 00:00:19,600 --> 00:00:24,053 Moon bears share their home with an array of wild neighbors. 7 00:00:26,890 --> 00:00:28,970 Cubs emerge from hibernation, 8 00:00:28,970 --> 00:00:32,653 seeing the outside world for the very first time. 9 00:00:35,330 --> 00:00:36,710 Life lessons are learned 10 00:00:36,710 --> 00:00:39,323 as they follow their mother's every footstep. 11 00:00:41,998 --> 00:00:43,770 (dramatic music) 12 00:00:43,770 --> 00:00:45,913 Sometimes to their detriment. 13 00:00:47,010 --> 00:00:49,933 A family life is fraught with danger. 14 00:00:50,840 --> 00:00:54,033 Mothers will courageously fight to protect their cubs. 15 00:00:56,080 --> 00:00:59,380 Above all, they face a race against time 16 00:00:59,380 --> 00:01:00,940 to stock up on food (uplifting music) 17 00:01:00,940 --> 00:01:04,993 and find shelter before the mountain's bitter winter hits. 18 00:01:09,960 --> 00:01:13,863 These resilient bears must fight to survive. 19 00:01:15,392 --> 00:01:18,559 (awe-inspiring music) 20 00:01:40,435 --> 00:01:43,770 (peaceful music) 21 00:01:43,770 --> 00:01:47,320 To the southwest of Japan's Tochigi Prefecture 22 00:01:47,320 --> 00:01:50,373 lies the picturesque Ashio Mountain Range. 23 00:01:52,990 --> 00:01:56,400 Lush green forest blankets the mountainsides 24 00:01:56,400 --> 00:01:59,013 and stretch for as far as the eye can see. 25 00:02:00,117 --> 00:02:02,867 (peaceful music) 26 00:02:06,775 --> 00:02:07,790 (birds chirping) These woodlands have 27 00:02:07,790 --> 00:02:10,880 become one of the few remaining strongholds 28 00:02:10,880 --> 00:02:13,123 for much of Japan's wildlife. 29 00:02:15,080 --> 00:02:19,439 Japanese macaques thrive amongst Ashio's many trees. 30 00:02:19,439 --> 00:02:24,439 (peaceful music) (birds chirping) 31 00:02:28,350 --> 00:02:32,390 The mountain's grassy plains provide the perfect habitat 32 00:02:32,390 --> 00:02:33,593 for sika deer. 33 00:02:42,150 --> 00:02:43,940 They are not the only large mammal 34 00:02:43,940 --> 00:02:46,223 to be found grazing on the mountains. 35 00:02:47,210 --> 00:02:50,964 Japanese serow also call Ashio home. 36 00:02:50,964 --> 00:02:53,714 (peaceful music) 37 00:02:57,390 --> 00:03:01,520 The two species are often seen together, living in harmony 38 00:03:01,520 --> 00:03:03,163 in the intermixed terrain. 39 00:03:09,837 --> 00:03:11,240 (birds chirping) 40 00:03:11,240 --> 00:03:13,140 Ashio's forests were not always 41 00:03:13,140 --> 00:03:15,493 the pristine habitat we see today. 42 00:03:17,910 --> 00:03:20,053 They have risen from the ashes. 43 00:03:25,570 --> 00:03:28,040 Industrial copper mines once dominated 44 00:03:28,040 --> 00:03:30,193 the now lush green landscape. 45 00:03:31,541 --> 00:03:34,458 (melancholy music) 46 00:03:36,670 --> 00:03:40,633 Pollution and deforestation choked the mountain range. 47 00:03:41,806 --> 00:03:44,723 (melancholy music) 48 00:03:46,350 --> 00:03:50,073 The mining industry stripped Ashio of its many trees. 49 00:03:54,251 --> 00:03:55,786 (wind whooshing) 50 00:03:55,786 --> 00:03:57,680 (melancholy music) 51 00:03:57,680 --> 00:04:01,293 Only bare hills were left in the wake of the mines. 52 00:04:09,480 --> 00:04:12,650 But the mountains have seen an astonishing revival 53 00:04:12,650 --> 00:04:17,650 over the last 60 years. (peaceful music) 54 00:04:17,650 --> 00:04:20,343 Half of the Ashio forests have recovered. 55 00:04:24,590 --> 00:04:28,260 As life has been breathed back into the landscape, 56 00:04:28,260 --> 00:04:31,205 wild animals have begun to return. 57 00:04:31,205 --> 00:04:36,205 (peaceful music) (birds chirping) 58 00:04:41,857 --> 00:04:44,190 One wildlife photographer has made it 59 00:04:44,190 --> 00:04:48,773 his life goal to document Ashio's remarkable transformation. 60 00:04:52,020 --> 00:04:54,810 Mr. Hiroshi Yokota has been filming 61 00:04:54,810 --> 00:04:58,563 the mountain's inhabitants for over 27 years. 62 00:04:59,830 --> 00:05:03,653 One wild occupant has become the center of his attention. 63 00:05:05,280 --> 00:05:07,890 Hiroshi searches the mountainsides 64 00:05:07,890 --> 00:05:10,193 for his favorite Ashio resident. 65 00:05:10,193 --> 00:05:12,943 (birds chirping) 66 00:05:15,560 --> 00:05:17,580 Deer graze in the distance, 67 00:05:17,580 --> 00:05:20,030 but they are not the species he is searching for. 68 00:05:30,200 --> 00:05:32,700 Hiroshi heads to a valley that was one 69 00:05:32,700 --> 00:05:36,393 of the first locations to recover from the invasive mining. 70 00:05:37,510 --> 00:05:42,510 (truck rattling) (birds chirping) 71 00:05:49,930 --> 00:05:52,313 A figure is spotted in the distance. 72 00:05:53,735 --> 00:05:56,485 (birds chirping) 73 00:05:58,061 --> 00:06:00,400 (Hiroshi speaks in Japanese) 74 00:06:00,400 --> 00:06:03,453 It is the elusive species he has been searching for. 75 00:06:05,500 --> 00:06:06,729 A moon bear. 76 00:06:06,729 --> 00:06:09,479 (peaceful music) 77 00:06:16,508 --> 00:06:17,900 Solitary by nature, 78 00:06:17,900 --> 00:06:21,163 the rugged bear searches the mountain sides for food. 79 00:06:22,079 --> 00:06:24,496 (calm music) 80 00:06:28,900 --> 00:06:31,170 The large mammals are carnivorous, 81 00:06:31,170 --> 00:06:35,895 but more than 90% of their diet is made up of plants. 82 00:06:35,895 --> 00:06:38,312 (calm music) 83 00:06:39,540 --> 00:06:43,370 Weighing between 70 to 120 kilograms, 84 00:06:43,370 --> 00:06:46,723 moon bears are one of Japan's largest animals. 85 00:06:58,040 --> 00:07:00,130 The striking mammals get their name 86 00:07:00,130 --> 00:07:02,893 from the moon-shaped crescent on their chest. 87 00:07:03,859 --> 00:07:08,859 (birds chirping) (wind whooshing) 88 00:07:19,780 --> 00:07:23,770 Hiroshi runs a busy chiropractic clinic for a living, 89 00:07:23,770 --> 00:07:25,800 but devotes his spare time 90 00:07:25,800 --> 00:07:28,331 to filming his favorite Ashio resident. 91 00:07:28,331 --> 00:07:30,610 (peaceful music) 92 00:07:30,610 --> 00:07:33,240 He has been mesmerized by the moon bears 93 00:07:33,240 --> 00:07:37,473 ever since his first encounter over 27 years ago. 94 00:07:39,760 --> 00:07:43,540 The moon bears are confined to Japan's southern islands 95 00:07:43,540 --> 00:07:45,630 of Shikoku and Honshu 96 00:07:45,630 --> 00:07:48,580 and live deep within isolated forests, 97 00:07:48,580 --> 00:07:51,063 making them incredibly hard to film. 98 00:07:52,920 --> 00:07:55,150 Yet Hiroshi has managed to film 99 00:07:55,150 --> 00:07:57,463 over 1000 hours of footage. 100 00:07:59,600 --> 00:08:00,580 From his tapes, 101 00:08:00,580 --> 00:08:03,300 we witnessed the trials and tribulations 102 00:08:03,300 --> 00:08:04,833 of Ashio's moon bears. 103 00:08:09,664 --> 00:08:12,081 (calm music) 104 00:08:13,130 --> 00:08:14,300 In early March, 105 00:08:14,300 --> 00:08:16,030 the mountains are still covered 106 00:08:16,030 --> 00:08:17,743 with a thick blanket of snow. 107 00:08:21,940 --> 00:08:24,463 But spring is just around the corner. 108 00:08:25,341 --> 00:08:26,890 (water whooshing) 109 00:08:26,890 --> 00:08:29,470 Snow and ice begin to melt. 110 00:08:29,470 --> 00:08:31,550 Cascading down the mountains, 111 00:08:31,550 --> 00:08:35,463 the liberated water nourishes Ashio's thirsty foliage. 112 00:08:40,100 --> 00:08:42,070 It is time for wintering birds, 113 00:08:42,070 --> 00:08:44,240 like the Steller's sea eagle, 114 00:08:44,240 --> 00:08:47,466 to head back to their breeding grounds. 115 00:08:47,466 --> 00:08:49,730 (calm music) 116 00:08:49,730 --> 00:08:53,700 Until spring fully awakens, Japanese macaques have 117 00:08:53,700 --> 00:08:56,263 to make do with tree bark as a meal. 118 00:09:01,050 --> 00:09:03,820 Deer feed on the few patches of grass 119 00:09:03,820 --> 00:09:05,720 that have pierced the blanket of snow. 120 00:09:06,812 --> 00:09:09,229 (calm music) 121 00:09:21,130 --> 00:09:24,320 With spring nearing, some Ashio's moon bears 122 00:09:24,320 --> 00:09:26,463 have begun to wake from hibernation. 123 00:09:28,900 --> 00:09:31,870 It is only males and females without cubs 124 00:09:31,870 --> 00:09:34,113 that will rise this early. 125 00:09:34,113 --> 00:09:36,730 (wind whooshing) 126 00:09:36,730 --> 00:09:39,760 The drowsy bears' first port of call is 127 00:09:39,760 --> 00:09:41,853 to find a mountainside stream. 128 00:09:43,220 --> 00:09:45,750 Unable to drink during hibernation, 129 00:09:45,750 --> 00:09:48,909 a gulp of fresh water is much overdue. 130 00:09:48,909 --> 00:09:51,742 (water whooshing) 131 00:10:00,280 --> 00:10:02,820 Using its powerful sense of smell, 132 00:10:02,820 --> 00:10:05,513 the bear scans its surroundings for food. 133 00:10:12,890 --> 00:10:16,400 Strongly built and equipped with curved claws, 134 00:10:16,400 --> 00:10:18,810 the moon bears are perfectly adapted 135 00:10:18,810 --> 00:10:20,423 to their mountainside home. 136 00:10:23,588 --> 00:10:26,560 (curious music) 137 00:10:26,560 --> 00:10:30,070 A steep rock face is no obstacle. 138 00:10:30,070 --> 00:10:32,393 Bears are accomplished climbers. 139 00:10:38,840 --> 00:10:40,720 Using its curved claws, 140 00:10:40,720 --> 00:10:43,483 this individual makes short work of the steep climb. 141 00:10:51,140 --> 00:10:54,750 The rock face becomes almost vertical. 142 00:10:54,750 --> 00:10:57,676 A fall from this height could be fatal. 143 00:10:57,676 --> 00:11:00,343 (curious music) 144 00:11:05,410 --> 00:11:07,720 But despite their heavy weight, 145 00:11:07,720 --> 00:11:11,233 the large mammals are remarkably nimble climbers. 146 00:11:18,010 --> 00:11:20,910 After a long hibernation with no food, 147 00:11:20,910 --> 00:11:25,396 this bear is starving and must find nourishment soon. 148 00:11:25,396 --> 00:11:27,813 (calm music) 149 00:11:28,930 --> 00:11:30,823 Something has caught its attention. 150 00:11:36,070 --> 00:11:38,530 It is only recently sprouted grass, 151 00:11:38,530 --> 00:11:40,013 but it will have to do. 152 00:11:45,150 --> 00:11:49,283 All of Ashio's waking residents are finding it tough. 153 00:11:50,240 --> 00:11:54,093 This bear makes do with bark from a willow tree as a meal. 154 00:11:56,128 --> 00:11:58,878 (birds chirping) 155 00:12:04,950 --> 00:12:08,270 The slopes are bare and food is scarce. 156 00:12:08,270 --> 00:12:12,113 The early risers will have to make do with meager pickings. 157 00:12:13,920 --> 00:12:18,000 A rare patch of grass grown from a mountainside spring 158 00:12:18,000 --> 00:12:19,643 provides a little nourishment. 159 00:12:24,740 --> 00:12:27,660 More substantial meals must be found soon 160 00:12:27,660 --> 00:12:30,360 in order for the bears to regain their strength, 161 00:12:30,360 --> 00:12:32,783 lost from their long hibernation. 162 00:12:35,470 --> 00:12:37,913 Some have fared better than others. 163 00:12:39,570 --> 00:12:43,503 A dead deer provides a much needed fat and protein boost. 164 00:12:45,770 --> 00:12:48,560 The ravenous bear tears off every piece of meat 165 00:12:48,560 --> 00:12:50,603 it can find on the decomposing carcass. 166 00:12:53,977 --> 00:12:56,727 (peaceful music) 167 00:12:58,690 --> 00:13:01,400 As spring starts to blossom in Ashio, 168 00:13:01,400 --> 00:13:04,403 the mountain's mother bears will soon awake. 169 00:13:07,570 --> 00:13:10,603 Pregnant females give birth during their long hibernation. 170 00:13:17,290 --> 00:13:21,113 Hiroshi patiently waits for a new family's arrival. 171 00:13:21,989 --> 00:13:25,390 (birds chirping) 172 00:13:25,390 --> 00:13:28,963 Two small figures appear from within a den. 173 00:13:30,094 --> 00:13:31,920 (peaceful music) 174 00:13:31,920 --> 00:13:33,970 It's two moon bear cubs, 175 00:13:33,970 --> 00:13:37,053 seeing the outside world for the first time. 176 00:13:38,960 --> 00:13:41,960 Gingerly, they take their first steps 177 00:13:41,960 --> 00:13:43,991 into the great outdoors. 178 00:13:43,991 --> 00:13:46,741 (peaceful music) 179 00:13:56,820 --> 00:14:00,033 Their mother seems a little more hesitant to leave. 180 00:14:01,258 --> 00:14:03,841 (bright music) 181 00:14:06,880 --> 00:14:09,000 Eventually, she follows suit, 182 00:14:09,000 --> 00:14:11,653 leaving her cozy winter home behind. 183 00:14:14,280 --> 00:14:16,390 It's follow the leader for the cubs 184 00:14:16,390 --> 00:14:19,034 as they shadow their mother's every step. 185 00:14:19,034 --> 00:14:21,617 (bright music) 186 00:14:31,310 --> 00:14:35,083 While Mum feeds, the cubs have a chance to explore. 187 00:14:36,380 --> 00:14:38,810 After three long months underground, 188 00:14:38,810 --> 00:14:42,293 the young bears are fascinated by their surroundings. 189 00:14:55,000 --> 00:14:58,166 In May, the forest is in full blossom. 190 00:14:58,166 --> 00:15:03,166 (peaceful music) (birds chirping) 191 00:15:03,640 --> 00:15:07,343 Flowers spring into life all over the mountainside. 192 00:15:15,630 --> 00:15:18,973 Finally, food has become more abundant for the moon bears. 193 00:15:20,040 --> 00:15:22,090 Fresh young leaves are soft, 194 00:15:22,090 --> 00:15:25,483 easily digested, and bursting with protein. 195 00:15:28,550 --> 00:15:31,870 This is a vital time for the bears. 196 00:15:31,870 --> 00:15:34,560 They must begin to regain their strength 197 00:15:34,560 --> 00:15:36,986 after their long hibernation. 198 00:15:36,986 --> 00:15:39,736 (peaceful music) 199 00:15:51,200 --> 00:15:54,540 A young family have taken to a steep slope, 200 00:15:54,540 --> 00:15:56,423 covered in fresh vegetation. 201 00:16:00,810 --> 00:16:04,220 The mother bear settles down on her haunches. 202 00:16:04,220 --> 00:16:06,193 It's feeding time for the cubs. 203 00:16:10,380 --> 00:16:11,440 (bear cub grunts) 204 00:16:11,440 --> 00:16:14,106 Eagerly, the youngsters suckle. 205 00:16:14,106 --> 00:16:16,856 (wind whooshing) 206 00:16:20,460 --> 00:16:22,980 Gently, the mother holds her precious young 207 00:16:22,980 --> 00:16:24,614 as they feed. 208 00:16:24,614 --> 00:16:27,447 (bear cub bleats) 209 00:16:31,510 --> 00:16:35,100 Moon bear's milk is packed full of fat and protein, 210 00:16:35,100 --> 00:16:37,770 containing three times as much energy 211 00:16:37,770 --> 00:16:39,183 as human breast milk. 212 00:16:41,905 --> 00:16:44,655 (cheerful music) 213 00:16:50,690 --> 00:16:51,970 The nutritious meal 214 00:16:51,970 --> 00:16:54,983 has given the restless cubs an energy boost. 215 00:17:03,310 --> 00:17:07,630 Using their sharp claws, the playing youngsters shred bark 216 00:17:07,630 --> 00:17:09,313 as they clamber up a tree. 217 00:17:12,130 --> 00:17:15,280 The sibling rivalry between the two is strong, 218 00:17:15,280 --> 00:17:17,413 which helps to build up their strength. 219 00:17:18,750 --> 00:17:22,910 But the young cubs cannot spend their entire day playing. 220 00:17:22,910 --> 00:17:24,203 There is work to be done. 221 00:17:27,474 --> 00:17:30,224 (birds chirping) 222 00:17:32,440 --> 00:17:34,000 Constantly on the move, 223 00:17:34,000 --> 00:17:37,040 the youngsters must learn crucial survival skills 224 00:17:37,040 --> 00:17:38,540 whilst following their mother. 225 00:17:41,920 --> 00:17:43,980 Using her powerful jaws, 226 00:17:43,980 --> 00:17:47,162 the mother rips bark off a larch tree. 227 00:17:47,162 --> 00:17:49,912 (birds chirping) 228 00:17:51,840 --> 00:17:55,703 Sap is extracted and provides a sweet treat. 229 00:17:57,190 --> 00:17:59,670 The liquid is full of sugar, 230 00:17:59,670 --> 00:18:03,283 making it an excellent energy source for the hungry bears. 231 00:18:18,161 --> 00:18:20,000 (peaceful music) 232 00:18:20,000 --> 00:18:21,850 Cubs are quick learners 233 00:18:21,850 --> 00:18:24,810 and soon follow their mother's example. 234 00:18:24,810 --> 00:18:28,910 This learned behavior could prove to be an lifesaver 235 00:18:28,910 --> 00:18:31,073 as the cubs develop into adults. 236 00:18:37,200 --> 00:18:39,720 Every day, the cubs grow physically 237 00:18:39,720 --> 00:18:42,950 and garner more knowledge from their mother. 238 00:18:42,950 --> 00:18:44,600 Between life lessons, 239 00:18:44,600 --> 00:18:48,243 the two still find time for a bit of rough and tumble. 240 00:18:50,294 --> 00:18:52,801 (grass rustling) 241 00:18:52,801 --> 00:18:56,150 (insects chirring) 242 00:18:56,150 --> 00:18:59,603 Loud buzzing sounds engulf the mountainside forests. 243 00:19:01,090 --> 00:19:02,943 It is the sound of the cicada. 244 00:19:03,780 --> 00:19:05,670 Their deafening song heralds 245 00:19:05,670 --> 00:19:07,435 the start of the summer. 246 00:19:07,435 --> 00:19:10,530 (cicadas chirring) 247 00:19:10,530 --> 00:19:14,223 The moon bear's favorite fruit has begun to ripen. 248 00:19:15,380 --> 00:19:17,083 Wild cherry trees. 249 00:19:23,160 --> 00:19:25,970 The blossoming cherries present the moon bears 250 00:19:25,970 --> 00:19:27,923 with a sweet-tasting feast. 251 00:19:29,660 --> 00:19:30,760 Since the spring, 252 00:19:30,760 --> 00:19:33,483 they have primarily been eating grass or leaves. 253 00:19:36,140 --> 00:19:39,902 The ravenous bears crave the sweet food source. 254 00:19:39,902 --> 00:19:42,819 (cicadas chirring) 255 00:19:50,590 --> 00:19:52,990 Hardest to reach branches are snapped off 256 00:19:52,990 --> 00:19:55,083 to get to the sweetest of prizes. 257 00:20:02,350 --> 00:20:03,650 It looks wasteful, 258 00:20:03,650 --> 00:20:06,900 as a lot of the branches, laden with precious cherries, 259 00:20:06,900 --> 00:20:08,203 fall to the ground. 260 00:20:13,470 --> 00:20:16,454 But one man's trash is another's treasure. 261 00:20:16,454 --> 00:20:19,121 (curious music) 262 00:20:22,710 --> 00:20:24,830 In the day, a badger appears 263 00:20:24,830 --> 00:20:27,223 and feeds on the discarded cherries. 264 00:20:30,410 --> 00:20:33,653 The area becomes particularly active during the night. 265 00:20:36,440 --> 00:20:38,260 Sniffing through the undergrowth, 266 00:20:38,260 --> 00:20:40,543 a wild boar joins the feast. 267 00:20:43,770 --> 00:20:46,653 A deer inspects the discarded branches. 268 00:20:48,790 --> 00:20:51,872 But this time, feeds on the leaves. 269 00:20:51,872 --> 00:20:53,980 (curious music) 270 00:20:53,980 --> 00:20:57,053 All the activity attracts the forest's predators, 271 00:20:58,260 --> 00:20:59,813 like the carnivorous marten. 272 00:21:03,300 --> 00:21:06,243 A red fox has also sensed activity. 273 00:21:06,243 --> 00:21:09,160 (insects chirring) 274 00:21:10,254 --> 00:21:11,240 (curious music) 275 00:21:11,240 --> 00:21:14,600 The bear's discarded branches have become a feast 276 00:21:14,600 --> 00:21:17,660 for forest animals that would not normally be able 277 00:21:17,660 --> 00:21:19,883 to reach the ripest of cherries. 278 00:21:23,015 --> 00:21:25,932 (insects chirring) 279 00:21:30,670 --> 00:21:32,300 Hiroshi is on his way 280 00:21:32,300 --> 00:21:35,650 to try to capture a rare summertime behavior 281 00:21:35,650 --> 00:21:37,373 of the mountain's moon bears. 282 00:21:46,130 --> 00:21:49,361 Conditions are not always easy in Ashio. 283 00:21:49,361 --> 00:21:51,840 (curious music) 284 00:21:51,840 --> 00:21:54,093 A recent rock slide has blocked the path. 285 00:21:55,173 --> 00:21:57,923 (birds chirping) 286 00:21:59,410 --> 00:22:02,170 Undeterred by the natural blockade, 287 00:22:02,170 --> 00:22:04,549 Hiroshi shifts the fallen rocks. 288 00:22:04,549 --> 00:22:07,299 (curious music) 289 00:22:20,200 --> 00:22:24,396 After 10 minutes of clearing, he is back on track. 290 00:22:24,396 --> 00:22:27,146 (wind whooshing) 291 00:22:28,570 --> 00:22:30,310 (birds chirping) 292 00:22:30,310 --> 00:22:32,350 Hiroshi heads to a deep valley 293 00:22:32,350 --> 00:22:35,610 that has a mix of both forest and rock. 294 00:22:35,610 --> 00:22:37,970 It is the perfect location for the moon bears 295 00:22:37,970 --> 00:22:40,403 to exhibit the behavior he is after. 296 00:22:44,240 --> 00:22:47,380 A bear appears on the steep rock face. 297 00:22:47,380 --> 00:22:50,297 (insects chirring) 298 00:22:51,150 --> 00:22:53,600 Using its powerful sense of smell, 299 00:22:53,600 --> 00:22:55,383 it examines the hillside. 300 00:22:58,199 --> 00:23:01,199 (suspenseful music) 301 00:23:12,700 --> 00:23:14,490 With incredible strength, 302 00:23:14,490 --> 00:23:16,840 the bear dislodges a giant rock, 303 00:23:16,840 --> 00:23:18,963 sending it flying down the slope. 304 00:23:21,600 --> 00:23:24,473 The shifted boulder exposes an ant nest. 305 00:23:25,470 --> 00:23:29,000 This is the behavior Hiroshi has been after. 306 00:23:29,000 --> 00:23:31,556 Ants are packed full of nutrition. 307 00:23:31,556 --> 00:23:34,139 (upbeat music) 308 00:23:36,210 --> 00:23:38,840 In the summer, moon bears will spend the majority 309 00:23:38,840 --> 00:23:41,293 of their day searching for nests. 310 00:23:43,960 --> 00:23:47,363 However, foraging is not without its dangers. 311 00:23:48,527 --> 00:23:51,490 (suspenseful music) 312 00:23:51,490 --> 00:23:55,300 In 2007, Hiroshi filmed a family foraging 313 00:23:55,300 --> 00:23:56,635 on the mountainside. 314 00:23:56,635 --> 00:23:59,635 (suspenseful music) 315 00:24:01,040 --> 00:24:05,030 The mother bear is fully focused on finding ant nests, 316 00:24:05,030 --> 00:24:07,393 seemingly forgetting about her cubs. 317 00:24:09,430 --> 00:24:10,940 Joining in with the search, 318 00:24:10,940 --> 00:24:14,107 the youngsters take on some of the smaller rocks. 319 00:24:14,107 --> 00:24:17,107 (suspenseful music) 320 00:24:38,050 --> 00:24:39,870 (rock rumbles) 321 00:24:39,870 --> 00:24:42,350 A jagged rock is shifted by the mother, 322 00:24:42,350 --> 00:24:45,295 which slams into her oblivious cub. 323 00:24:45,295 --> 00:24:48,295 (suspenseful music) 324 00:24:52,090 --> 00:24:54,763 Miraculously, the minor is uninjured. 325 00:24:56,990 --> 00:25:00,144 However, cubs do not always come out unscathed. 326 00:25:00,144 --> 00:25:03,144 (suspenseful music) 327 00:25:04,550 --> 00:25:06,220 This mother has a bad habit 328 00:25:06,220 --> 00:25:09,223 of being reckless during her frantic ant hunts. 329 00:25:15,130 --> 00:25:17,620 Again, the mother shifts a large rock, 330 00:25:17,620 --> 00:25:20,140 which rolls straight into her cub. 331 00:25:20,140 --> 00:25:23,680 (melancholy music) (rocks rattling) 332 00:25:23,680 --> 00:25:27,183 The heavy impact sends the cub tumbling down the rock face. 333 00:25:32,520 --> 00:25:35,130 Once more, the young bear managers to rise 334 00:25:35,130 --> 00:25:37,413 to its feet after the hefty collision. 335 00:25:41,170 --> 00:25:44,433 But this time, it has not escaped without injury. 336 00:25:47,330 --> 00:25:50,540 Its front leg is visibly damaged. 337 00:25:50,540 --> 00:25:53,457 (melancholy music) 338 00:25:58,240 --> 00:26:01,433 The mother shows little concern for her wounded cub. 339 00:26:03,210 --> 00:26:06,483 Growing up in Ashio is not for the faint hearted. 340 00:26:10,320 --> 00:26:14,173 The stricken cub must keep up, or face being abandoned. 341 00:26:22,012 --> 00:26:25,180 (calm music) 342 00:26:25,180 --> 00:26:28,913 Hiroshi finds the ill-fated youngster two years. 343 00:26:34,390 --> 00:26:37,480 It still bears the mark of the ant hunting ordeal, 344 00:26:37,480 --> 00:26:39,708 but has survived. 345 00:26:39,708 --> 00:26:42,125 (calm music) 346 00:26:47,560 --> 00:26:50,940 This individual's survival against the odds 347 00:26:50,940 --> 00:26:54,233 is a testament to the moon bear's astonishing resilience. 348 00:26:59,580 --> 00:27:01,220 The wildlife of Ashio 349 00:27:01,220 --> 00:27:04,240 has always faced many dangers. 350 00:27:04,240 --> 00:27:06,230 By far, their biggest challenge 351 00:27:06,230 --> 00:27:09,158 has been surviving human influences. 352 00:27:09,158 --> 00:27:12,158 (suspenseful music) 353 00:27:14,750 --> 00:27:17,270 Aerials of the mountains serve as a reminder 354 00:27:17,270 --> 00:27:20,557 of the harmful impacts people have had on the landscape. 355 00:27:20,557 --> 00:27:23,390 (uplifting music) 356 00:27:30,460 --> 00:27:33,230 Nonetheless, Ashio is recovering, 357 00:27:33,230 --> 00:27:36,200 thanks to a full scale regeneration project 358 00:27:36,200 --> 00:27:38,584 which started in the 1950s. 359 00:27:38,584 --> 00:27:41,417 (uplifting music) 360 00:27:43,700 --> 00:27:46,890 Thousands of blocks of soil, mixed with grass seed, 361 00:27:46,890 --> 00:27:49,330 were planted on the mountainsides. 362 00:27:49,330 --> 00:27:52,163 (uplifting music) 363 00:28:02,470 --> 00:28:04,540 It was a mammoth task, 364 00:28:04,540 --> 00:28:07,603 but slowly the grass began to take root. 365 00:28:17,160 --> 00:28:20,383 Ashio has been regenerating ever since. 366 00:28:24,000 --> 00:28:26,600 Restored woodland has had a positive effect 367 00:28:26,600 --> 00:28:29,603 on the region by acting as a natural dam. 368 00:28:31,490 --> 00:28:33,870 Rainwater gathers underground 369 00:28:33,870 --> 00:28:37,450 and is naturally filtered by the renewed foliage. 370 00:28:37,450 --> 00:28:40,283 (water pattering) 371 00:28:43,090 --> 00:28:46,581 The water is then released back into the landscape. 372 00:28:46,581 --> 00:28:48,430 (water whooshing) 373 00:28:48,430 --> 00:28:50,760 It pours down the mountainsides 374 00:28:50,760 --> 00:28:53,373 and into Ashio's flowing rivers. 375 00:28:54,689 --> 00:28:57,439 (peaceful music) 376 00:29:04,050 --> 00:29:08,753 The bare mountains of the 1870s once muddied these waters. 377 00:29:09,700 --> 00:29:13,378 Now they are crystal clear and full of life. 378 00:29:13,378 --> 00:29:16,128 (peaceful music) 379 00:29:17,720 --> 00:29:21,113 The river's fish have returned to the rejuvenated waters. 380 00:29:22,930 --> 00:29:25,990 Among them, the landlocked masu salmon 381 00:29:25,990 --> 00:29:27,763 and whitespotted char. 382 00:29:29,308 --> 00:29:32,003 (water whooshing) 383 00:29:32,003 --> 00:29:34,753 (peaceful music) 384 00:29:37,210 --> 00:29:40,840 Forests dominate the vast mountainous landscape 385 00:29:40,840 --> 00:29:44,723 and even Ashio's smaller residents with a home. 386 00:29:44,723 --> 00:29:47,473 (peaceful music) 387 00:29:54,480 --> 00:29:58,463 Over 27 species of tree now grow on the mountainsides. 388 00:30:08,470 --> 00:30:11,880 Japanese macaques have been quick to take advantage, 389 00:30:11,880 --> 00:30:13,913 setting up home in the canopies. 390 00:30:15,360 --> 00:30:18,580 The healthy monkey population is testament 391 00:30:18,580 --> 00:30:20,523 to Ashio's regeneration. 392 00:30:26,020 --> 00:30:29,920 Moon bears were one of the last residents to return. 393 00:30:29,920 --> 00:30:32,680 They require a variety of food, 394 00:30:32,680 --> 00:30:35,810 so could only reappear once the forests were back 395 00:30:35,810 --> 00:30:37,062 to full health. 396 00:30:37,062 --> 00:30:42,062 (birds chirping) (branches rustling) 397 00:30:49,530 --> 00:30:51,730 Moon bears have been known to eat up 398 00:30:51,730 --> 00:30:54,033 to 20 different kinds of fruit. 399 00:30:56,066 --> 00:30:58,816 (birds chirping) 400 00:31:01,010 --> 00:31:02,710 A range of food is essential 401 00:31:02,710 --> 00:31:04,330 for building up strength, 402 00:31:04,330 --> 00:31:08,211 as life in the forest can throw up many challenges. 403 00:31:08,211 --> 00:31:11,970 (peaceful music) (birds chirping) 404 00:31:11,970 --> 00:31:16,070 Summertime is the breeding season for Ashio's moon bears. 405 00:31:16,070 --> 00:31:19,103 It is a dangerous time to be a mother with cubs. 406 00:31:24,130 --> 00:31:27,140 Hiroshi has been tracking one bear in particular 407 00:31:27,140 --> 00:31:31,610 for 10 years, recording the trials and tribulations 408 00:31:31,610 --> 00:31:34,053 of a cub reaching adulthood. 409 00:31:37,078 --> 00:31:38,769 (wind whooshing) 410 00:31:38,769 --> 00:31:41,370 (bright music) 411 00:31:41,370 --> 00:31:44,830 They first met in May of 2005 412 00:31:44,830 --> 00:31:47,323 while the cub was riding on its mother's back. 413 00:31:48,690 --> 00:31:51,490 The young bear caught Hiroshi's attention, 414 00:31:51,490 --> 00:31:54,860 as it had a particularly distinguishing moon crescent. 415 00:31:54,860 --> 00:31:56,510 It's marking as longer than that 416 00:31:56,510 --> 00:31:57,843 of a normal moon bear. 417 00:31:59,830 --> 00:32:02,960 Hiroshi named the cub Jiro, 418 00:32:02,960 --> 00:32:06,673 as he believed it to be a male by its boisterous behavior. 419 00:32:07,818 --> 00:32:09,630 (wind whooshing) 420 00:32:09,630 --> 00:32:12,840 Seven years later, he finds a mother bear 421 00:32:12,840 --> 00:32:15,113 with the same distinguishable marking. 422 00:32:16,560 --> 00:32:19,463 Jiro is, in fact, a female. 423 00:32:20,925 --> 00:32:24,173 (peaceful music) 424 00:32:24,173 --> 00:32:26,923 (bears grunting) 425 00:32:32,230 --> 00:32:35,503 She safely raised her first offspring to adulthood. 426 00:32:37,750 --> 00:32:41,400 Another two years passed and Jiro, once again, 427 00:32:41,400 --> 00:32:44,991 gives birth, this time to two healthy cubs. 428 00:32:44,991 --> 00:32:47,741 (peaceful music) 429 00:32:49,830 --> 00:32:51,950 These two cubs disappeared, 430 00:32:51,950 --> 00:32:55,360 highlighting the danger a mother and her offspring face 431 00:32:55,360 --> 00:32:57,043 during the breeding season. 432 00:33:00,590 --> 00:33:03,480 After Jiro's previous tragic losses, 433 00:33:03,480 --> 00:33:05,850 she once again gets a chance at motherhood 434 00:33:12,960 --> 00:33:15,270 With only one young to focus on, 435 00:33:15,270 --> 00:33:19,312 Hiroshi had high hopes it would reach adulthood. 436 00:33:19,312 --> 00:33:22,732 (peaceful music) 437 00:33:22,732 --> 00:33:25,482 (birds chirping) 438 00:33:27,980 --> 00:33:32,283 Jiro and her cub are later found huddled in a larch tree. 439 00:33:33,620 --> 00:33:35,707 It soon becomes apparent why. 440 00:33:35,707 --> 00:33:37,400 (suspenseful music) 441 00:33:37,400 --> 00:33:39,600 A large male has detected them 442 00:33:39,600 --> 00:33:41,883 and begins to scramble up the tree. 443 00:33:45,730 --> 00:33:48,853 Jiro desperately tries to intercept the aggressor. 444 00:33:51,650 --> 00:33:54,633 Branches shake under the force of the fighting bears. 445 00:33:55,931 --> 00:34:00,850 (suspenseful music) (bears grunting) 446 00:34:00,850 --> 00:34:02,560 Gripped in a vicious battle, 447 00:34:02,560 --> 00:34:05,413 the two tumble down a steep slope. 448 00:34:05,413 --> 00:34:08,246 (dramatic music) 449 00:34:17,070 --> 00:34:19,920 The aggressor shakes off the brave mother 450 00:34:19,920 --> 00:34:22,253 and heads back towards the defenseless cub. 451 00:34:23,181 --> 00:34:25,931 (dramatic music) 452 00:34:34,850 --> 00:34:36,880 In an act of sheer bravery, 453 00:34:36,880 --> 00:34:39,390 Jiro attempts to again stop the male 454 00:34:39,390 --> 00:34:41,278 from reaching her offspring. 455 00:34:41,278 --> 00:34:44,028 (dramatic music) 456 00:34:50,660 --> 00:34:51,993 Her efforts are futile. 457 00:34:56,600 --> 00:35:00,193 The male has the tiny, defenseless bear in his jaws. 458 00:35:09,690 --> 00:35:12,940 Jiro has not let her young go down without a fight, 459 00:35:12,940 --> 00:35:15,080 but she cannot stop the inevitable 460 00:35:21,350 --> 00:35:24,103 Eventually, she accepts her offspring's fate. 461 00:35:39,620 --> 00:35:41,610 It is a brutal behavior, 462 00:35:41,610 --> 00:35:43,600 but females will not mate 463 00:35:43,600 --> 00:35:45,973 while they're still breastfeeding their cubs. 464 00:35:49,920 --> 00:35:51,890 By killing Jiro's offspring, 465 00:35:51,890 --> 00:35:54,030 she will become ready to mate again, 466 00:35:54,030 --> 00:35:57,188 giving the male a chance to add to his bloodline. 467 00:35:57,188 --> 00:35:59,830 (melancholy music) 468 00:35:59,830 --> 00:36:04,323 This violent behavior is part and parcel of moon bear life. 469 00:36:06,200 --> 00:36:09,340 Despite these hardships, better times are ahead 470 00:36:09,340 --> 00:36:11,710 as September brings a valuable gift 471 00:36:11,710 --> 00:36:13,803 to Ashio's rugged residents. 472 00:36:16,120 --> 00:36:19,063 Oak trees start to yield acorns. 473 00:36:23,530 --> 00:36:25,550 Like the cherries of the summer, 474 00:36:25,550 --> 00:36:27,250 oaks provide the moon bears 475 00:36:27,250 --> 00:36:29,603 with another valuable seasonal food. 476 00:36:32,280 --> 00:36:35,780 The large bears climb even the most precarious trees 477 00:36:35,780 --> 00:36:37,163 to get to the bounty. 478 00:36:42,130 --> 00:36:44,600 Acorns are one of the most important foods 479 00:36:44,600 --> 00:36:45,963 at this time of the year. 480 00:36:47,660 --> 00:36:51,130 With only three months before they go into hibernation, 481 00:36:51,130 --> 00:36:54,724 they must consume as many as possible. 482 00:36:54,724 --> 00:36:55,990 (peaceful music) 483 00:36:55,990 --> 00:36:59,150 Building a substantial fat reserve is vital 484 00:36:59,150 --> 00:37:01,370 for their impending sleep. 485 00:37:01,370 --> 00:37:06,370 (peaceful music) (birds chirping) 486 00:37:09,100 --> 00:37:13,406 Other fat rich opportunities also present themselves. 487 00:37:13,406 --> 00:37:16,156 (birds chirping) 488 00:37:17,900 --> 00:37:21,423 A deer carcass has been found entangled in a fence. 489 00:37:23,220 --> 00:37:25,603 This is a rare feast for the moon bears. 490 00:37:26,578 --> 00:37:29,328 (birds chirping) 491 00:37:37,600 --> 00:37:39,710 The carcass does not go unnoticed 492 00:37:39,710 --> 00:37:41,623 by other hungry observers. 493 00:37:43,520 --> 00:37:45,240 It is highly unusual for bears 494 00:37:45,240 --> 00:37:47,303 to be in such close proximity. 495 00:38:04,060 --> 00:38:06,670 The late visitor begins to eat the deer 496 00:38:06,670 --> 00:38:08,383 from the other side of the fence. 497 00:38:12,700 --> 00:38:15,610 Sensing the two are of similar strength, 498 00:38:15,610 --> 00:38:19,483 the initial bear on the scene gives up the precious carcass. 499 00:38:20,370 --> 00:38:23,510 This is the moon bear's way of avoiding conflict 500 00:38:23,510 --> 00:38:25,299 and potential injury. 501 00:38:25,299 --> 00:38:30,299 (birds chirping) (wind whooshing) 502 00:38:42,820 --> 00:38:46,346 Sensing something, the bear briefly stops eating. 503 00:38:46,346 --> 00:38:47,340 (suspenseful music) 504 00:38:47,340 --> 00:38:50,678 The valuable meat is bound to attract more attention. 505 00:38:50,678 --> 00:38:53,630 (suspenseful music) 506 00:38:53,630 --> 00:38:55,490 With one final mouthful, 507 00:38:55,490 --> 00:38:58,153 this individual makes a hasty retreat. 508 00:39:00,910 --> 00:39:03,593 A much larger bear has arrived on the scene. 509 00:39:04,920 --> 00:39:07,020 When there is judged to be a great difference 510 00:39:07,020 --> 00:39:10,662 in size and power, the weaker will retreat. 511 00:39:10,662 --> 00:39:13,622 (suspenseful music) 512 00:39:13,622 --> 00:39:14,810 (wings whooshing) 513 00:39:14,810 --> 00:39:18,090 The dominant individual feasts without interruption, 514 00:39:18,090 --> 00:39:19,963 bar a few noisy neighbors. 515 00:39:21,273 --> 00:39:23,856 (crows cawing) 516 00:39:25,050 --> 00:39:27,710 Obliviously gorging, the ravenous bear 517 00:39:27,710 --> 00:39:31,762 has an unseen observer, watching in the undergrowth. 518 00:39:31,762 --> 00:39:32,595 (curious music) 519 00:39:32,595 --> 00:39:36,349 It is the hungry diner that was the first on the scene. 520 00:39:36,349 --> 00:39:39,460 (curious music) 521 00:39:39,460 --> 00:39:40,810 10 more minutes pass 522 00:39:40,810 --> 00:39:44,563 and finally, the imposter leaves with a full stomach. 523 00:39:44,563 --> 00:39:47,230 (curious music) 524 00:39:56,010 --> 00:39:57,370 After waiting eagerly, 525 00:39:57,370 --> 00:40:00,573 the patient bear walks back to his find. 526 00:40:06,800 --> 00:40:08,940 By lingering in the undergrowth, 527 00:40:08,940 --> 00:40:11,716 it is still able to get an adequate meal 528 00:40:11,716 --> 00:40:14,293 and has avoided any risky conflict. 529 00:40:19,213 --> 00:40:21,660 (bright music) 530 00:40:21,660 --> 00:40:26,300 Autumn arrives and the forest is burning with red leaves. 531 00:40:26,300 --> 00:40:30,623 The vibrant colors signal the eminent winter is on its way. 532 00:40:37,040 --> 00:40:41,223 A tapestry of rich colors blanket the mountainside forests. 533 00:40:44,790 --> 00:40:46,960 Many trees bear fruit, 534 00:40:46,960 --> 00:40:51,121 which becomes a lifeline to much of Ashio's wildlife. 535 00:40:51,121 --> 00:40:53,704 (bright music) 536 00:41:13,540 --> 00:41:17,023 A mother bear and cub feed on a fruiting tree. 537 00:41:18,120 --> 00:41:20,950 The youngster was only born this year 538 00:41:20,950 --> 00:41:23,543 and has already mastered the art of climbing. 539 00:41:27,090 --> 00:41:31,620 All of Ashio's moon bears will soon enter hibernation. 540 00:41:31,620 --> 00:41:34,270 It is their final chance load themselves 541 00:41:34,270 --> 00:41:36,423 with as much nutrition as possible. 542 00:41:47,464 --> 00:41:49,250 (peaceful music) 543 00:41:49,250 --> 00:41:52,573 The winter strips the forest of its vibrant leaves. 544 00:41:56,050 --> 00:41:58,793 Autumn has now fully departed. 545 00:41:59,757 --> 00:42:02,174 (calm music) 546 00:42:10,730 --> 00:42:13,933 A lone bear roams the naked landscape. 547 00:42:23,910 --> 00:42:26,150 Climbing a steep, rocky hill, 548 00:42:26,150 --> 00:42:29,093 this bear is searching for something. 549 00:42:29,093 --> 00:42:31,610 (wind whooshing) 550 00:42:31,610 --> 00:42:34,493 It peers into gaps in the hillside's rocks. 551 00:42:36,070 --> 00:42:40,748 The lone bear is probing for a suitable hibernation den. 552 00:42:40,748 --> 00:42:43,498 (wind whooshing) 553 00:42:49,720 --> 00:42:51,870 This hole is only just big enough 554 00:42:51,870 --> 00:42:53,810 for the moon bear to squeeze into. 555 00:42:55,243 --> 00:42:57,910 (curious music) 556 00:43:01,950 --> 00:43:03,330 Dens are usually found 557 00:43:03,330 --> 00:43:06,330 between rocks or beneath tree roots 558 00:43:06,330 --> 00:43:08,673 and have a depth of around three meters. 559 00:43:13,280 --> 00:43:14,940 They are natural holes, 560 00:43:14,940 --> 00:43:17,909 but bears will expand the interior. 561 00:43:17,909 --> 00:43:20,576 (curious music) 562 00:43:26,240 --> 00:43:28,600 To make its winter home more habitable, 563 00:43:28,600 --> 00:43:30,980 this bear gathers fallen leaves 564 00:43:30,980 --> 00:43:33,813 and loose foliage, rolling its gatherings 565 00:43:33,813 --> 00:43:36,003 into a more compact size. 566 00:43:46,230 --> 00:43:48,770 Grasping the collection in its large arms, 567 00:43:48,770 --> 00:43:53,026 this bear has collected a decent amount for a comfy bed. 568 00:43:53,026 --> 00:43:55,693 (curious music) 569 00:43:59,480 --> 00:44:02,080 Awkwardly, the new bedding is carried 570 00:44:02,080 --> 00:44:03,383 into its secluded home. 571 00:44:14,230 --> 00:44:18,093 This bear can now hunker down for the impending winter. 572 00:44:22,090 --> 00:44:26,403 Snow has already begun to fall on the Ashio Mountain range. 573 00:44:28,940 --> 00:44:32,120 Winter is almost upon this young family. 574 00:44:32,120 --> 00:44:34,138 They must find a den soon. 575 00:44:34,138 --> 00:44:39,138 (birds chirping) (wind whooshing) 576 00:44:40,520 --> 00:44:44,130 The hefty cub was only born this year. 577 00:44:44,130 --> 00:44:46,150 At this astonishing growth rate, 578 00:44:46,150 --> 00:44:48,133 a large winter home is needed. 579 00:44:57,510 --> 00:45:00,210 Juveniles will spend their first hibernation 580 00:45:00,210 --> 00:45:01,123 with their mother. 581 00:45:02,030 --> 00:45:05,473 The pair will not resurface until March. 582 00:45:05,473 --> 00:45:08,223 (wind whooshing) 583 00:45:10,660 --> 00:45:12,680 As snow covers Ashio, 584 00:45:12,680 --> 00:45:16,633 the moon bears lie sheltered in their snug dens. 585 00:45:16,633 --> 00:45:19,383 (wind whooshing) 586 00:45:23,260 --> 00:45:26,630 Conditions on the mountains can be extreme. 587 00:45:26,630 --> 00:45:29,713 It is no wonder the bears avoid the harsh winters. 588 00:45:34,700 --> 00:45:38,635 Some, however, do not have it as good as the sleeping bears. 589 00:45:38,635 --> 00:45:40,230 (suspenseful music) 590 00:45:40,230 --> 00:45:43,460 Non-hibernating animals have to tough it out 591 00:45:43,460 --> 00:45:44,960 on the freezing mountainsides. 592 00:45:45,978 --> 00:45:50,978 (wind whooshing) (suspenseful music) 593 00:45:54,480 --> 00:45:57,260 Blizzards range throughout the winter, 594 00:45:57,260 --> 00:46:00,182 shutting off Ashio to the outside world. 595 00:46:00,182 --> 00:46:02,932 (wind whooshing) 596 00:46:18,541 --> 00:46:22,110 (birds chirping) 597 00:46:22,110 --> 00:46:23,690 As spring arrives, 598 00:46:23,690 --> 00:46:25,910 the snow begins to melt 599 00:46:25,910 --> 00:46:28,923 and the forest slowly starts to come back to life. 600 00:46:30,026 --> 00:46:34,841 (birds chirping) (wind whooshing) 601 00:46:34,841 --> 00:46:37,591 (peaceful music) 602 00:46:40,480 --> 00:46:45,450 The mother and large cub begin to awake from their slumber. 603 00:46:45,450 --> 00:46:47,480 It's been around three months 604 00:46:47,480 --> 00:46:49,953 since the two entered into hibernation. 605 00:46:50,857 --> 00:46:53,440 (bright music) 606 00:47:06,830 --> 00:47:08,780 They exit the den together, 607 00:47:08,780 --> 00:47:11,350 but soon the juvenile will leave his mother 608 00:47:11,350 --> 00:47:13,003 and fend for himself. 609 00:47:17,160 --> 00:47:20,680 Going solo can be a daunting prospect. 610 00:47:20,680 --> 00:47:24,300 Nonetheless, it is time to go it alone. 611 00:47:24,300 --> 00:47:26,560 With the knowledge garnered from its mother, 612 00:47:26,560 --> 00:47:29,300 this individual is well equipped for a life 613 00:47:29,300 --> 00:47:30,774 in the wilderness. 614 00:47:30,774 --> 00:47:33,607 (uplifting music) 615 00:47:36,700 --> 00:47:41,700 Today, moon bear habitats are threatened all over Japan. 616 00:47:41,860 --> 00:47:45,470 Ashio's recovering forests have become a lifeline 617 00:47:45,470 --> 00:47:47,173 for the enchanting bears. 618 00:47:49,180 --> 00:47:52,460 Young families can flourish in the safe haven 619 00:47:52,460 --> 00:47:55,140 of the protected mountainsides, 620 00:47:55,140 --> 00:47:58,023 undisturbed by human impacts. 621 00:48:07,600 --> 00:48:10,480 The resilient bears will face many challenges 622 00:48:10,480 --> 00:48:14,877 as they grow up in their often precarious surroundings. 623 00:48:14,877 --> 00:48:17,620 (uplifting music) 624 00:48:17,620 --> 00:48:22,283 Life can be tough and surprises lurk around every corner, 625 00:48:23,930 --> 00:48:27,360 but as long as Ashio's recovery continues, 626 00:48:27,360 --> 00:48:32,203 the moon bears will survive in their mountainside kingdom. 627 00:48:32,203 --> 00:48:35,036 (uplifting music) 628 00:48:40,009 --> 00:48:43,176 (awe-inspiring music) 629 00:49:16,310 --> 00:49:18,893 (bright music) 46758

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