What kind of animals can we see in Yakushima? From deer and monkeys to endangered species
Table of Contents
- 1 What kind of animals live on Yakushima Island? Diverse creatures nurtured by the rich nature
- 2 Points of observation in Yakushima
- 3 Attraction of Animal Watching with Guided Tours
- 4 Spots where you can see wild animals in Yakushima
- 5 Thorough introduction to the typical animals of Yakushima
- 6 Rare and endangered plants and animals you can meet in Yakushima
- 7 Tips for better animal watching in Yakushima
- 8 summary
What kind of animals are there in Yakushima?
Diverse living creatures nurtured by rich nature
Yakushima Island" is a UNESCO World Natural Heritage site with pristine nature.
The island, with its extremely high annual rainfall and mountainous terrain, has nurtured a unique ecosystem and is home to many endemic and rare species.
Among them, the number of people visiting Yakushima for animal observation has been increasing,Encounters with wild animals such as yak deer and yak monkeys are a major attraction.It is.
◆Those planning a trip to Yakushima
◆A person who is interested in the nature and history of Yakushima Island.
◆Those who want to know what kind of animals are on Yakushima Island.
◆ Those who are interested in eco-tourism and nature conservation in Yakushima.
Held in Yakushima!
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In this issue, we will introduce some of the animals you can encounter on Yakushima!
Yakushima's natural environment and unique ecosystem characteristics
The natural environment of Yakushima is unique in Japan.
The rich natural environment allows Yakushima's endemic wildlife, including yakushima sika deer and yakumaru monkeys, to thrive.
Many endangered species also inhabit the area, making it a focus of attention from the perspective of nature conservation.â
What are the typical wild animals that can be observed on Yakushima?
The first two typical wild animals that can be observed on Yakushima are the Yakushima deer and the Yakushima monkey.
Both can be seen in various places on the island,Relatively friendly and easy to observeis a feature of this product!
Other rare amphibians and reptiles, such as the Ishikawa's frog and the Ryukyu tortoise, as well as beautiful birds such as the Lidth's jay.
The diversity of flora and fauna will surprise and impress visitors.
Points of observation in Yakushima
For successful animal observation on Yakushima, it is important to be aware of the time of year and the time of day.
Also,Be considerate to wildlife and observe manners.It is also essential to
Recommended seasons and times for animal observation
Animal watching in Yakushima can be enjoyed throughout the year, but is especially recommended from spring to autumn.
In spring, animals become more active with fresh greenery, and in autumn, their range of activities increases as they search for food, providing more opportunities for observation.
Also,Cooler times of the day, such as early morning and eveningbut the encounter rate is high because it coincides with the activity time of yak deer and yak monkeys.
The key is to observe them quietly, as they often rest in the shade of trees or bushes during the day!
Attraction of Animal Watching with Guided Tours
To fully enjoy the rich nature of Yakushima, we recommend taking advantage of guided tours.
By walking with a guide who has expert knowledge, you can learn more about the animals and their ecology that you might otherwise miss on a simple hike.
A series of discoveries by experienced guides
The guides are familiar with the behavior patterns of the animals and the spots where they appear, which greatly increases the chances of encountering them.
For example, the guide will choose a route with a high probability of encountering a herd of yak deer or yak monkeys, or tell you the species of birds in the trees based on their calls, making the experience like walking through a nature book.
Chance to see endangered species.
If you are lucky, you may even come across endangered species listed on the Ministry of the Environment's Red List☆.
Some of the animals are rare and can only be seen during certain seasons and times of the year, and without a guide, you may pass by them unnoticed!
Safe and secure observation experience
While the forests of Yakushima are beautiful, the terrain is complex and there are many places where it is easy to get lost.
With guided tours, safety is thoroughly managed, and beginners and families can enjoy animal observation with peace of mind.
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Spots where you can see wild animals in Yakushima
Yakushima Island has several observation spots where you can encounter wild animals while becoming one with nature. Here we introduce two areas that are particularly popular!
Around Yakusugiland
Yakusugiland is one of the densest natural areas on Yakushima.
There is a well-maintained walking trail, and even beginners can enjoy observing animals with ease.
Walking through the mossy forest, yak deer can be seen peeking out from between the trees,Yak monkeys can be seen playing in the trees.It is not uncommon for the
Also, listen carefully to the birdsong you hear while observing.
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Shiratani-unsui Gorge and near Taikoiwa
Shiratani Unsui Gorge, which was the model for the movie Princess Mononoke, is a forest with a mysterious atmosphere,A spot with a high rate of wildlife encounters☆.
Trekking trails stretching along the valley allow visitors to get up close and personal with yak deer and yak monkeys in their natural habitat.
You can feel the breath of animals living in the forest as well as the spectacular view from Taikoiwa, an experience that is truly unique to Yakushima.
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Thorough introduction to the typical animals of Yakushima
Yakushima Island is home to many animals that cannot be seen in mainland Japan.
This section details the yak deer and yak monkeys that represent them!
Characteristics and ecology of the Yakushima Deer (Cervus nippon yakushimae)
The yakushika deer is endemic to Yakushima Island and is slightly smaller in stature than the Japanese deer that inhabit Honshu.
They can be found in high altitude areas and live by feeding on moss, lichens, and other plants.
Because they are adapted to the warm and humid climate of Yakushima, they are active all year round and are one of the easiest animals to observe!
What is the difference from deer in the mainland?
The biggest difference between the deer (Japanese deer) and the Yakushika deer in Honshu is their size and adaptation to the ecosystem.
Yak deer have evolved to adapt to the island environment and are small and somewhat less cautious, making them more likely to appear in front of people.
And since the entire island is their habitat, they are not limited to a specific area, but can be encountered in a variety of places☆.
Life of Yakushima's Yakuzaru (monkey)
The yakuzaru is a subspecies of the Japanese macaque, and is found only on Yakushima Island.
These monkeys are also smaller than mainland Japanese monkeys and have dark fur. They are well adapted to high altitude forests,They are often seen working in groups.
Observation reveals many interesting behaviors, such as the highly social relationships within the troop and the play of the young monkeys.
Observations and Manners
Wild animals on Yakushima are not accustomed to people and may cause stress if approached excessively!
When observing, keep a quiet distance and avoid flash photography.
Feeding is also prohibited. Feeding human food not only compromises the animal's health, but can also lead to accidents due to unnatural proximity to humans.
Be mindful of your attitude of living in harmony with nature!
Rare and endangered plants and animals you can meet in Yakushima
Yakushima Island is home to many rare plants and animals that cannot be found anywhere else.
The presence of endangered animals and species found only on Yakushima make the island even more special!
Rare Animals on Yakushima You Should Know
On Yakushima Island,Endangered species on the Red List of Japan's Ministry of the Environment also inhabit the area.The company is doing so.
The "Ryukyu tortoise" and the "Yakushima shrew" are especially valuable for their very existence!
These animals can be difficult to observe, but they are important to know from a conservation perspective.
Ryukyu turtles and Lidth's jays.
The Ryukyu leatherback turtle is endemic to Japan and lives quietly in the forests of Yakushima.
Because they are very timid, it is not easy to meet them, but if you see them, observe them quietly!
The Lidth's jay, a bird with beautiful lapis lazuli feathers, is found on Yaku Island and the Amami Islands.
You are very lucky if you can see them in a forested area.
What is the relationship between plants and animals endemic to Yakushima?
Animals on Yakushima live in a relationship with plants.
Yak deer live off mountain plants, while yak monkeys migrate through the forest in search of fruit and nuts!
Also, in ecological cycles, such as carrying plant seedsAnimals play an important role.
If you observe with these connections in mind, you will gain a deeper understanding of the nature of Yakushima♪
Tips for better animal watching in Yakushima
Encountering wild animals is one of the best parts of a trip to Yakushima!
Here are some ways to enjoy it more deeply.
Attraction of Animal Watching with Guided Tours
Yakushima offers a wide variety of eco-tours led by local guides.
Walking with a guide with expertise increases the likelihood of spotting wildlife and learning more about animal habits and ecology.
In particular, a guide can be very helpful in learning about the habitats of rare species and recommended observation routes!
Observation Tips for Manners and Living in Harmony with Nature
To enjoy animal observation, consideration for nature is essential.Leave no litter, make no noise, do not interfere with animals.and other basic manners!
Yakushima is a "special place" for human visitors, but it is also a "place of daily life" for animals and plants. Please keep this in mind and enjoy observing with a spirit of symbiosis.
summary
Yakushima is a treasure trove of flora and fauna, with a unique nature and ecosystem that cannot be found anywhere else. The major attraction of the island is its encounters with rare and endangered species, including typical wild animals such as the yakushima sika deer and yakushima macaque.
Check in advance the best times and places for observation, and learn as you walk with local guides for a more in-depth experience. Please observe the rules and manners, and truly enjoy the rich nature and animal encounters of Yakushima!
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