After a social media post shows a user consuming Tsukinowaguma, or Asiatic black bear meat, the internet in Japan has erupted in a frenzy. The controversial meal, shared online to an array of differing opinions, has sparked a nation-wide discussion on wildlife conservation and the legality of consuming wild animals. The date when this happened and the location remains unspecified in the headline,

Japan's interpretation of wildlife conservation following the incident has been eclectic. While a portion of the population indicated some understanding towards local traditions involving consumption of wild animals, the significant majority voiced concerns about the implications for conservation and animal protection laws. In Japan, the legality of hunting specific animals is subject to strict regulation, and it overlies a cultural significance associated with respect for living creatures.

Conversely, in the U.S or EU, hunting laws are strict, accompanied by relevant legislation to protect endangered or vulnerable species. The public reaction would notably be against such actions, unless the region has established hunting traditions, and even then, explicit permissions and regulations apply. Social media posts underlining consumption of endangered wildlife would be strongly condemned and could lead to punitive actions.