A pictorial guide to the rare creatures of Amami Oshima｜Includes spots where you can find endemic and endangered species!
Table of Contents
- 1 Charming Nature and Creatures of Amami Oshima
- 2 Why was it registered as a World Natural Heritage site?
- 3 Are there any carnivores on Amami Oshima?
- 4 Endemic and endangered species of Amami Oshima
- 5 Spots where you can meet creatures on Amami Oshima Island
- 6 Let's observe the rare creatures♪ Recommended night tours in Amami Oshima
- 7 Efforts to Protect Creatures on Amami Oshima
- 8 summary
Charming Nature and Creatures of Amami Oshima
Amami Oshima Island, with its clear blue ocean and rich forests, is attracting attention as a paradise of nature and creatures that are precious in the world.
On the island, you can only seeMany endemic and endangered speciesThe area is still a unique ecosystem.
In this article, the depth of nature on Amami Oshima and,Connections of life to be protectedThe following is a list of ecological attractions where you can feel the
◆ Those who are interested in the nature and unique creatures of Amami Oshima Island.
Those who want to encounter creatures that can only be seen on Amami Oshima
◆I want to know about endemic and endangered species in Amami Oshima
↓Click here for recommended tours in Amami Oshima.
Held on Amami Oshima!
Click here to see the ranking of popular tours
Why was it registered as a World Natural Heritage site?
Amami Oshima Island is recognized for its large number of endemic species and high biodiversity,Registered as a World Natural Heritage siteThe first time the company was founded, it was in the process of being reorganized into a new company.
In particular, there are many creatures that can only be found here, such as the Amami rabbit owl and the Amami ishikawa toad.
These ecosystems are a precious natural heritage formed over many years.
↓Click here to read the article.
Topography of Amami Oshima Island
Amami Oshima is an island with diverse topography, including mountains, valleys, and wetlands.
These topographies are,Habitat for a variety of organismsThey are giving us the
In particular, the virgin forests in the mountains provide habitat for many endemic species.
Unique ecosystems nurtured by the climate
Amami Oshima Island has a subtropical climate that is warm and humid throughout the year.
These climatic conditions,Diverse plant communities and the animals that depend on themThis allows for the inhabitation of
In particular, the humid environment nurtures a variety of creatures, including amphibians and insects.
Are there any carnivores on Amami Oshima?
There are no large carnivores such as bears or wolves on Amami Oshima, but there are small carnivorous animals, birds of prey, and snakes.
Among them, the non-native mongoose has had a serious impact on the ecosystem by preying on native small animals and birds.
Currently, mongoose eradication is still underway,Conservation of the natural environment is an important issueThe first two are the following.
Endemic and endangered species of Amami Oshima
Amami Oshima Island is home to many endemic and endangered species that can only be found here.
These creatures are a valuable part of the island's unique evolutionary process.
However, many of them areImpact of deforestation and invasive alien speciesThe habitat is threatened by such factors as
mammalian
Amami Oshima Island is home to rare mammals not found elsewhere, many of which are endemic to the island.
Especially the Amami rabbit,A "living fossil" that retains its prehistoric appearanceIt is attracting worldwide attention as a
Their quiet lives deep in the island's forests give us a sense of the rich nature of Amami Oshima and the miracle of evolution.
Two shots with the Amami rabbit
Click here for recommended plans ↓↓.
Ryukyu rabbit
The Amami rabbit is an endemic species found only on Amami Oshima and Tokunoshima,A living fossil.It is also called
The Amami rabbit is covered with dark fur all over its body, has round, large ears and a short tail, and is a strong jumper, moving quickly through the forest.
They also have a keen sense of smell and hearing, and are active at night to protect themselves from predators.
You may be able to see the Amami rabbit.
Click here for recommended plans ↓↓.
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Ryukyu long-haired rat (Diplothrix legata)
The kenagane rat is characterized by its long, bushy hair that covers its entire body,Japan's largest ratand is endemic to Amami-Oshima Island.
Nocturnal, they are found mainly in forests and mountains, feeding on nuts and plants.
They are difficult to observe because they are wary and difficult to see.
Ryukyu spiny rat (Tokudaia osimensis)
authorityWikipedia
Amami spiny rat is,Distinctive rodent with spiny hairs on its backand serves as protection against enemies.
Small and nocturnal, they are mainly active at night and can be found in fallen leaves in forests.
Their unique hair texture and alertness make them a rare rodent that is difficult to observe.
birds
Amami Oshima Island is surrounded by rich subtropical forests,A "bird paradise" with a large number of birds indigenous to the islandIt is known as the
Beautiful birds found only here, such as the Lidth's jay and the Amami yamashigi, make their distinctive calls in the forest.
Let's enjoy bird-watching and get in touch with the life that lives together with the nature of Amami Oshima♪.
Lidth's jay (Garrulus lidthi)
The Lidth's jay is endemic to Amami Oshima and is a beautifulA bird of the crow family with lapis lazuli feathersIt is.
They live in forests, feeding on fruits and insects.
Their bright colors and chirps have made them a symbol of the island.
roseroot (Rhodiola rosea)
The Amami Yamashigi is a nocturnal bird that inhabits Amami Oshima Island,A bird with a long beak and legs.
They forage primarily on the ground for insects and other small creatures and move skillfully through the dark forest.
Known for its distinctive call and beautiful plumage, it is a rare bird that is difficult to observe.
Ootora thrush (Turdus viscivorus)
It is a medium-sized bird, about 30 cm long,The brown feathers have a distinctive black and white speckled pattern.
It lives mainly on the ground in forests, feeding on insects and small fruits.
They are wary and difficult to spot, but are known for their beautiful calls.
Auston-backed woodpecker (Dendrocopos leucotos)
The Auston's woodpecker is a large woodpecker that inhabits Amami Oshima and Tokunoshima,Bright red head.This is the fox of the
They knock on tree trunks to dig burrows and search for insects to eat.
With its powerful beak and distinctive cry,Presence in the forestThe company has been releasing the
Amphibians & Reptiles
Amami Oshima Island is a treasure trove of rare amphibians and reptiles in Japan, with many endemic species that have evolved uniquely on the island.
Precious creatures that cannot be seen anywhere else, such as the vividly colored Amami Japanese pond frog and the pristine Amami warty newt, live here in secret.
The creatures I will introduce hereafter are just some of those you may encounter while walking in the forests of Amami Oshima."Miracle of Nature."Â
Amami Ishikawa's frog (Odorrana amamiensis)
The Amamiis kawagara frog has a bright green body with black spots, and because of its beautiful pattern, theThe most beautiful frog in Japan.It is also referred to as
They live near rocky areas and clear streams, and are characterized by their strong jumping ability and quick movements.
They are nocturnal and prefer moist environments.
You can meet the Ishikawa frog.
↓Click here for recommended night tour plans.
Otton's frog (Bufo ottoni)
Otton's frogs are large frogs that live on Amami-Oshima Island,It is characterized by having five fingers.
Its body is stocky and round, and its skin is glossy.
Nocturnal and active in moist forests and near water, they make a distinctive call.
Amami tip-nosed frog (Odorrana amamiensis)
Amami Hanasaki frogs are,Bright orange or yellow body colorand is a very strong jumping frog using its long hind legs.
They live in moist forested riparian areas and communicate with their mates with a distinctive call.
In addition, the mucus secreted by the skin hasEffect of protecting against external enemiesThere are
Amami rabbitfish
authorityWEB Cyclopedia
Amami warty newts are creatures characterized by small warty protrusions on their body surface and a rough texture.
They are mainly found in forests and wet areas on Amami-Oshima Island, and are nocturnal, feeding on insects and other animals.
Rare amphibians that retain primitive formsIt is known as the
Pseudobagrus ichikawai (species of catfish)
The Amami shiriken newt is an endemic species found only on Amami Oshima Island, and is about 10 cm long.
The tail is pointed like a sword.and prefers moist forest and riparian environments.
They are nocturnal, carnivorous amphibians that feed on insects and small invertebrates.
Okinawa tree lizard (Lizards lizards)
The Okinawa Okinawa yellow-bellied lizard is about 15 to 20 cm in length and has a bright green body color.
He was good at climbing trees,They use their sharp claws to live their arboreal life.
Diurnal, feeding mainly on insects, they live in the forests of Amami Oshima and Okinawa.
insectivores
Amami Oshima Island is home to insects that have evolved in their own unique way.
Among them are stag beetles and beautiful butterflies endemic to Amami Oshima,Attractive species for nature loversThere are numerous
You will be able to catch a glimpse of rare insects, especially in forests and mountainous areas.
Amami stag beetle (Lucanus amamiensis)
authorityMinistry of the Environment
The Amami Marubane stag beetle is,A valuable endemic species found only on Amami-Oshima Islandand is a large stag beetle with a body length of 7 cm.
They are mainly active at night and live in decaying wood, so patience is required to discover them.
They are in danger of extinction due to overhunting and habitat loss, and are in strong need of protection.
Ukezima maruban stag beetle (Lucanus ukezima, species of stag beetle)
authorityMinistry of the Environment
Ukejima marubane stag beetle is,Distributed only in the Amami Archipelago's Hitoto Island.Extremely rare stag beetle.
It is found in old-growth forests at high elevations and is listed as an endangered species because of its sensitivity to environmental changes.
Restrictions on access to the habitat and protection activities have been implemented, and the rarity of the species is attracting attention!
Arctic grayling (Thymallus arcticus)
The Ryukyu Asagimadara is,Pale spots on black backgroundThe butterfly is a beautiful butterfly of the Nansei Islands.
It has a soft and graceful flight, and is often seen in the forests and near the coast on Amami Oshima Island.
It is also a popular subject for observation and photography, and has attracted the attention of butterfly enthusiasts.â
Spots where you can meet creatures on Amami Oshima Island
On Amami Oshima Island, there are spots where you can encounter endemic and endangered species in the rich natural environment.
Experience the breath of living creatures in the virgin forests, mountains, specialized facilities, night tours, and more.
Check in advance the best time of year and routes for observation, and remember to visit in consideration of nature!
Held on Amami Oshima!
Click here to see the ranking of popular tours
Kuroshio Forest
Kuroshio-no-mori is a nature experience facility located in Sumiyo-cho, Amami Oshima,Magnificent mangrove primeval forests can be explored.Valuable spot.
This area is rich in nature, with mountains and forests occupying 941 TP3T of the entire town, and is home to national natural treasures such as the red-breasted moustache and the Lidth's jay, as well as the Amami rabbit, a special natural treasure.
Also, canoeing experience while going through the mangrove tunnels,Creatures such as ayu (sweetfish), etc.and enjoy an adventure at one with nature.
◆Access: Approximately 70 minutes by car from Amami Airport
↓About Kuroshio Forest
Kuroshio Forest held!
↓Click here for recommended night tours.
Kanasakubara virgin forest
The Kanasakuhara primeval forest is a representative of Amami OshimaNature Observation Spotsand an area of prehistoric forest.
Many rare species, such as the Amami rabbit and the Amami ishikawa frog, inhabit this area.
Accompanied by a tour guide, you can safely observe the flora and fauna â
◆Access: 40 minutes by car from Amami City Hall
↓About the Kinsaku Plains Wilderness Forest
Held in the Kinsaku Genbaru Forest!
↓Click here for recommended night tours.
Mt. Yuan
Ywan-dake at an elevation of 694 meters above sea level,The highest mountain on Amami Oshimaand where the subtropical nature remains strong.
The area around the summit is known as a treasure trove of rare plants, birds, and insects â
The trail is well maintained, allowing visitors to enjoy trekking and observing nature.
◆Access: 15 minutes by car from Uken Village Hall
↓About ↓Yuwan Mt.
Amami Wildlife Conservation Center
The Amami Wildlife Conservation Center is a popular educational facility where visitors can learn about the nature and creatures of Amami Oshima.
Through actual specimens and panel displays, visitors can understand the ecology of rare species and the importance of conservation.
Local Nature UpdatesIt is also recommended to visit before sightseeing because you can also get
◆Access: 90 minutes by car from Amami Airport
↓About Amami Wildlife Conservation Center
Let's observe rare creatures â
Recommended night tours in Amami Oshima
Night tours are popular on Amami Oshima Island to search for creatures that can only be seen at night♪
Amami rabbit, Amami spiny rat, etc,Chance to meet rare nocturnal speciesThere are
Expert guides will accompany you and help you encounter nature while taking care of your safety.
↓Click here for popular night tours.
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Efforts to Protect Creatures on Amami Oshima
On Amami Oshima Island, registered as a World Natural Heritage site,Nature conservation activities by local residents and governmentis underway.
The program protects rare species, exterminates invasive species, and promotes ecotourism.
And the people who visit,Acting in consideration of natureIt is important to be aware of the following
Impact of Invasive Species and Extermination Activities
On Amami Oshima Island, non-native species such as mongoose and wildcat threaten native rare species.
In particular, the population of small terrestrial animals such as the Amami rabbit has been greatly reduced by non-native predators.
Currently, extermination activities are underway by the Ministry of the Environment and others,Initiatives for Ecosystem Restorationcontinues.
Protection ordinances and regulations for capture and collection
On Amami Oshima Island, the protection ordinances by the national and prefectural governments requireStrictly regulates the capture and collection of certain plants and animalsThe company has been
The Amami rabbit and the Amami Marubane stag beetle are protected under the Law for the Protection of Cultural Properties and the Law for the Preservation of Species.
Violations are subject to penalties, so compliance with the law is required for sightseeing and nature observation.
Conservation activities with the cooperation of local residents and tourists
On Amami Oshima Island, local residents continue to take the initiative in exterminating invasive alien species and preserving the environment.
Volunteer activities and eco-tours that tourists can participate in are being developed, and understanding of nature conservation is spreading.
The entire community must develop a sense of living in harmony with nature,The Key to Protecting the Future of Rare SpeciesThe first time the company has been
summary
The rich nature of Amami-Oshima and the rare creatures that inhabit it are precious to the world.
In order to protect these ecosystems and pass them on to the next generation,Understanding and cooperation from each of usis essential.
When visiting, remember to be considerate of the natural environment and follow the rules for observation!
↓Click here to read the article.
