Amami Oshima is home to many endemic wildlife, but the most famous among them is the Amami rabbit.
On Link Adventures’ night tour, we focus on searching for this rare and fascinating creature. In this post, I’ll introduce you to the Amami rabbit in detail.
The Ecology of the Rare Amami Rabbit
The Amami Rabbit is a wild animal that only inhabits Amami Oshima and Tokunoshima island, and it is designated as a rare endangered species in Japan. It is often referred to as a “living fossil,” as it has existed for about 3 million years, making it one of the oldest wild rabbit species on Earth. Measuring about 50 centimeters in length, it has a large body and a small face. Since there are no captive individuals, many aspects of its biology remain a mystery, including the number of offspring it produces in its lifetime, which is still unknown.
Activity Patterns of the Amami Rabbit
The Amami Rabbit is nocturnal and begins its activities just before dusk when it emerges from its burrow. It is rarely seen during the day; in fact, during my time as a guide, I’ve only seen one during daylight hours. Its dark fur makes it hard to spot, so extra caution is needed when driving at night.
Best Time to Spot the Amami Rabbit
Wildlife on Amami Oshima, including the Amami rabbit, does not hibernate. This means there are opportunities to see the rabbit throughout the year. It is said that the population of the Amami Rabbit has been increasing in recent years, which means the chances of spotting one are higher. However, on rainy days, the rabbits tend to stay hidden, making sightings less likely.
Tours to See the Amami Rabbit
We offer wildlife watching tours focused on the Amami Rabbit. You can comfortably observe these wildlife from the safety of our vehicle and enjoy the experience without worrying about pit vipers. When you visit Amami Oshima, make sure to join our tour and have the chance to meet the elusive Amami Rabbit!
