A growing raccoon population is causing increasing damage across Japan, with economic losses rapidly escalating. Agricultural damage is approaching 700 million Japanese yen annually – approximately 95 million Czech crowns. According to the Japanese Ministry of Agriculture, Forestry and Fisheries, this figure represents a doubling of damages compared to levels recorded a decade ago. The invasive species is spreading into urban areas, exacerbating the problem. The Kyodo news agency reports that officials are concerned about the escalating financial burden on farmers and the ecological impact of the expanding raccoon presence. Authorities are currently evaluating strategies to manage the raccoon population and mitigate further economic losses within Japan. This issue highlights the challenges posed by invasive species to both agriculture and urban environments.