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Video article 6:37
The Small, Cute Japanese Badger! A Look at Their Ecology and Habits!
Living Things- 2.81K plays
- YouTube
A Look at the Japanese Badger This video, titled "[Japan's Wildlife] the Ecology of Badgers|A Cute Animal That Looks Like a Bear but Isn't (Japanese Badger)" (【日本の動物】アナグマの生態〜クマのようで熊ではない可愛い動物〜(Japanese badger)), introduces the Japanese badger. Japanese badgers look like bears, but as you'll see in the video, they are actually quite different. Let's take a look at Japan's native badger species! About the Japanese Badger Photo:Japanese badgers Japanese badgers belong to the family Mustelidae and order Carnivora. The scientific name of the Japanese badger is "Meles anakuma." The Japanese badger is 40 to 60 centimeters in length and weighs about 12 kilograms. They're light brown in color, similar to that of bears. A characteristic of the Japanese badger is their sharp claws. Japanese badgers are nocturnal and omnivorous animals and live in units called "clans." When the temperature drops below 10 degrees Celsius, they enter hibernation. They inhabit forests in Honshu (本州), Shikoku (四国), and Kyushu (九州). The average lifespan for a wild Japanese badger is 10 years. In the video you can see two cute Japanese badgers playing, running around, and taking naps. Japanese Badgers - Viewed as Pests Photo:A badger walking on snow Japanese badgers have warm personalities and do not scare easily. Unfortunately, because they often feed on the crops of farmers, they are seen as pests. Some restaurants in Fukuoka, Kagoshima, and Kyoto actually serve badger meat as game dishes. The Diverse Wildlife Found in Japan Photo:Japanese weasel There are other animals similar to the Japanese badger, such as the raccoon dog (tanuki), masked palm civet, raccoon, and the Japanese weasel. There's a Japanese proverb that goes "Onaji ana no Mujina" (同じ穴の狢), which, translated to English, goes "Badgers of the same hole." It basically expresses that while seemingly unrelated, these animals are of the same type. It's similar to "birds of a feather" or "villains of the same stripe." Breeding Japanese Badgers? Source :YouTube screenshot Japanese badgers are quite friendly. Even when people come close to it, it sometimes moves closer to them, albeit with their tail between their legs like a cat. However, if they are provoked, they may threaten other animals with fierce warning calls. They are not prohibited from being kept as pets, but it's a bit difficult to actually keep them, as you won't be able to bring them to an ordinary vet if something happens. Summary of Japanese Badgers In this article we gave a quick overview of the Japanese badger. Recently, Japanese badgers have been featured on news broadcasts as they've been seen coming down to towns for food, due to increasing deforestation. We'll have to do our part to preserve the forests so that humans and animals can coexist. -
Video article 7:07
Cape Kiritappu - Enjoy a View of Cute Otters Playing in Hokkaido! Observe the Wildlife of Japan at This Popular Sightseeing Location!
Living Things- 2.02K plays
- YouTube
Video Introduction This video, titled "Cape Kiritappu, Hokkaido|Wild Sea Otters Floating in the Sea|2020" (北海道霧多布岬 ぷかぷか浮かぶ 野生のラッコ 2020), was uploaded by "Shinji kawamura." The video captures endangered sea otters playfully swimming and relaxing at Cape Kiritappu, a place where you can encounter otters, foxes, and other wildlife of Japan. It's a great place for taking Instagram photos as well, so be sure to check it out. Don't forget to follow along with the video! Sea Otters – An Endangered Species on the Decline in Japan Photo:A raft of sea otters The main habitat of wild sea otters is the area from the California coast through Alaska and the Aleutian Islands to the coast of the Kamchatka Peninsula. Overfishing has led to a decline in the wild population, and it's estimated that more than 3,000 sea otters perished when an oil tanker ran aground in Alaska. Although the number of sea otters in the wild temporarily declined to less than 2,000, active conservation efforts have helped the population recover to more than 100,000. On the other hand, the number of sea otters kept in aquariums in Japan has continued to decline from 122 in 1994, and by 2021 there will be only 4 in Japan. Sea otters, which are designated as an endangered species, are prohibited from being imported from outside of Japan. Currently, because of declining reproductive capabilities and aging populations, further breeding of sea otters kept in Japan becoming more and more difficult. Because of this, it's not unlikely that there will come a day when sea otters can no longer be seen in aquariums in Japan. Where to See Sea Otters in the Wild in Japan Photo:Cape Kiritappu, Hokkaido There was a time when wild sea otters were no longer seen in the waters around Japan due to overfishing, but since 1980, there has been a string of sightings along the eastern coast of Hokkaido. In recent years, wild sea otters have been seen in Japan mainly in three areas along the eastern coast of Hokkaido. One is Cape Kiritappu, which is introduced in the video, and the others are Cape Nosappu in Nemuro, which is located on the northeast side of the cape, and Moyururi Island, an uninhabited island off the Kombumori fishing port between Cape Kiritappu and Cape Nosappu. Breeding has been confirmed on both Cape Kiritappu and Moyururi Island. Of these three locations, the highest probability of observing wild sea otters from land is at Cape Kiritappu. The sight of wild sea otters, both parents and offspring, floating in the sea, is both funny and cute. [Video] 0:19 - Wild Sea Otters Swimming With Their Offspring in Their Arms Sea Otters at Cape Kiritappu - The Best Times and Where to See Them Photo:An otter Wild sea otters can be seen throughout the year around Cape Kiritappu. However, your chances are low during bad weather, such as fog or high waves. It's said that the chance of seeing sea otters on a clear day is only a 1 in 3 chance, so weather is also an important factor. The best place to see them is where the waves are most calm. The probability of seeing them is higher on the north side of the cape and around reefs. If you're lucky, you can see wild sea otters up close, but we recommend bringing a telescope or binoculars in order to clearly see their appearance, behavior, and facial expressions. You can check out the sea otters napping and eating in the video. [Video] 1:50 - Sea Otters Relaxing and Taking Naps [Video] 4:28 - Sea Otters Eating Shellfish off Their Stomachs Summary of Otters at Cape Kiritappu The number of sea otters kept in aquariums has drastically decreased due to difficulties in breeding in Japan. Wild sea otters, on the other hand, a species that once vanished due to overhunting, can now be seen in the waters around Japan. The eastern coast of Hokkaido, where sightings are particularly common, is now quite popular. Cape Kiritappu is a popular spot to see rare wild sea otters from land. If you happen to see them during a visit to the area, consider yourself lucky! 【TripAdvisor】Cape Kiritappu https://www.tripadvisor.com/Attraction_Review-g1120924-d1553698-Reviews-Kiritappu_Cape-Hamanaka_cho_Akkeshi_gun_Hokkaido.html -
Video article 0:40
A Mysterious Giant Salamander Has Suddenly Appeared in Kyoto's Kamo River! Introducing the Living Fossil That Has Remained Unchanged Since Ancient Times and Is Designated as a Protected Species!
Living Things- 3.92K plays
- YouTube
The Giant Salamander of Kyoto's Kamo River! This is a video of the Giant Salamander, a protected species, that appeared in Kyoto's Kamo River. The giant salamander is the world’s largest amphibian. The characteristics of giant salamanders is their large body, which is approximately 150cm (~5 ft.) long. Giant salamanders have not changed in form since ancient times, and as such, they are referred to as "living fossils." What Are Giant Salamanders? Photo:Giant salamander Japanese Giant Salamanders belong to the animalia kingdom, chordata phylum, and amphibia class. They are also referred to as "Hanzaki" in Japanese. It is an endemic species living in the south western part of Japan. The mucus giant salamanders secrete on their skin smells like Japanese pepper (Sansho), so they are called "Sansho Uo" in Japanese. Chinese giant salamanders are very similar to Japanese giant salamanders. There's not much difference between Japanese giant salamanders and Chinese giant salamanders, and it is difficult to identify them based on appearance. In China, there is a theory that earthquakes occurs when giant salamanders appear. Are There Many Giant Salamanders Living in Kyoto's Kamo River? Photo:Kyoto As you can see in the video, giant salamanders are often seen in Kyoto's Kamo River basin. However, according to genetic research in the Kyoto area, the native species are extinct and the ones currently living in the city are likely to be non-native, hybrids, or a new species. In Kyoto, heavy rains and typhoons often cause the Kamo River to flood. After it rains, you can find salamanders that were washed downstream from Kumogahata village. The video begins with a giant salamander, over 1 meter in length, walking slowly along the path. It stops moving after 0:07, but you can see it slowly raising its head a couple of times. Giant Salamanders at the Kyoto Aquarium! Photo:Giant salamander At Kyoto Aquarium, there is a special display area of giant salamanders, and if you're lucky, you may even hear their low guttural call. You can also buy stuffed giant salamanders at the aquarium's souvenir shop. At the aquarium, more research is being done on giant salamanders. According to studies, the average life expectancy of a Giant Salamander is 80 years, but some live more than 200 years. Summary of the Giant Salamander at Kamo River Source :YouTube screenshot Many of you may have been surprised by the sheer size of the salamander in the video. There are many reports of salamander sightings along the Kamo River, so it's a good place to stop by when sightseeing in Kyoto. You can also visit the Kyoto Aquarium to learn more about the biology of the Japanese giant salamander. 【Official Website】Kyoto Aquarium- A short walk from Umekoji-Kyotonishi Station https://www.kyoto-aquarium.com/ -
Video article 4:50
A Rare Video of a Wild Marten! Can They Be Kept as Pets? What Kind of Animal Is This Cute Critter? Learn About Their Ecology and Daily Lives!
Living Things- 1.13K plays
- YouTube
A Look at the Wild Marten! This video, titled "A Close up of a Wild Marten" shows rare footage of a wild marten chowing down. Marten are small animals similar to stoats, ferrets, and weasels. The animal is often treated as a supernatural species in many parts of Japan. There are legends and folktales about the marten that say it has the ability to shapeshift into a raccoon or a fox, and that the misfortunes that occur in villages are due to the work of the marten. In this article, we'll explore the ecology and characteristics of the marten! The Marten - Types and Habitat Photo:Marten The marten is a carnivorous animal that constitutes the genus Martes in the family Mustelidae. Marten are generally 44-55 cm long with tails 17-23 cm long, and they weigh around 1 kilogram. Most wild marten in Japan are found on Honshu (Japan's main island), but they are also widely distributed in Shikoku and Kyushu. In Tsushima, Kyushu region Nagasaki prefecture, there is an endemic subspecies called the Tsushima marten. The Japanese sable of Hokkaido is said to be a different species than the marten. There are other types of marten around the world, such as the yellow-throated marten, American marten, Japanese sable, and European pine marten. The Characteristics and Ecology of the Japanese Marten Source :YouTube screenshot In the wild, marten live and breed alone, using crevices in rocks and tree hollows as their burrows. Their high pitched "squeaking" is one of their distinctive characteristics. Wild marten are omnivores, feeding on insects, birds, fruits and many other things. They sometimes appear in towns and destroy fields, so they are often treated as vermin. Their fur is reddish brown or dark brown in color, and they have different colored summer and winter coats. Some marten are even known for their incredibly fine fur. The wild marten shown in the video is seen constantly checking its surroundings as it chows down on some cat food. Occasionally it stands up to check its surroundings as well. This can be seen at 0:46 in the video. If you notice, the marten is also missing his front left leg, which may be the reason it's is relying on cat food, as catching its prey may be more difficult. Keeping Marten as Pets Photo:Marten After seeing this cute critter munching on some cat food, you might even think you want to raise one yourself. The breeding of wild marten is not prohibited in Japan, and they can actually be caught and bred with permission. However, due to their aggressive and violent nature, there are few cases of keeping them outside of specialized facilities such as zoos. That being said, it's probably difficult to care for one. Summary of the Japanese Marten In this article, we introduced the ecology of the wild marten. As you can see in the video, you might encounter a wild marten in your backyard in Japan, but they are quite difficult to care for. If you want to see some cute marten up close, we recommend visiting a zoo or animal shelter! -
Video article 2:06
Yezo Sika Deer: Learn About the Magnificent Deer of Hokkaido's Snowy Notsuke Peninsula! All About Yezo Sika Deer and Their Problem as a Disruptive Species
Living Things Nature- 871 plays
- YouTube
Wild Yezo Sika Deer on the Notsuke Peninsula! In this video “Yezo Sika Deer on the Notsuke Peninsula(野付半島のエゾシカ)”, created by Shinji Kawamura, you can watch the wild Yezo sika deer, living in herds in the snow of the Notsuke Peninsula (野付半島, Notsuke Hanto), Hokkaido. The Yezo sika deer, which belong to the Cervidae family, is one of many subspecies of the sika deer (the Japanese deer), mainly living in the grasslands of Hokkaido. Its body is bigger than that of the Japanese deer; It is approximately 1.5 meters long and 1.1 meters high. As you can see in this video, the Yezo sika deer has large antlers, which are shed between April and May every year. Yezo sika deer are herbivorous animals, and they have unique high-pitched calls. The wild Yezo sika deer shown in this video are from herds living on the Notsuke Peninsula, Hokkaido. The Notsuke Peninsula is the biggest sand peninsula/sand spit in Japan; It is approximately 26 kilometers long, and located between Shiretoko Peninsula (知床半島, Shiretoko Hanto) and Nemuro Peninsula (根室半島, Nemuro Hanto). Many wild birds, animals, and insects live there. In December, when the grass dies, herds of Yezo sika deer move to their winter homes,- forests with more coniferous trees and less accumulated snow. From 0:55 in the video, you can see the Yezo sika deer living in herds in the snow. The Population of Wild Yezo Sika Deer Photo:Yezo Sika Deer The population of the Yezo sika deer once decreased dramatically due to hunting and deforestation in the early Meiji Period around 1868. However, after implementing measures to prohibit overhunting, the population has been increasing. Each deer eats a large amount of grass every day, so currently there are some problems regarding the damage of crops and forests, and the destruction of the environment. In addition, as its population has increased, more Yezo sika deer have been appearing in urban areas, which leads to problems of disruptive animals. From 1:33 in the video, you can hear sounds of cars driving in the background near a herd of Yezo sika deer. From the video, you can see that the Yezo sika deer lives very closely to humans. The "Yezo Deer Association" was founded in order to maintain a symbiotic relationship with the Yezo sika deer. Currently people take some measures to control the population of the Yezo sika deer, such as controlled hunting. The captured Yezo sika deer are used in venison dishes, for leather-working, deer fur products, antler products, and so on. Wild game meat dishes are very expensive in Europe, and venison is said to be healthy and has a unique flavor, so venison dishes are very popular. Venison is heated thoroughly and cooked into roasted meat or steak to avoid zoonotic diseases and food intoxication. Where to See the Wild Yezo Sika Deer Photo:Yezo Sika Deer on the Notsuke Peninsula The Notsuke Peninsula is an area where many wild animals have lived for a long time, even since the era of the Ainu (the native tribes of Hokkaido). It has multiple national forests and the Nationally Designated Special Wildlife Reserve. On the Notsuke Peninsula Nature Center, a hub for sightseeing, you can learn about the natural surroundings and the history of the Notsuke Peninsula. It also provides a wide range of tours, so you can join one of them and go around the Notsuke Peninsula. (The tours are a paid attraction and you must book ahead of time). We cannot guarantee that you can always see the Yezo sika deer as they are wild, but even if you cannot see the deer during the tour, you can still enjoy the wild of Hokkaido to your hearts content. Overview of the Yezo Sika Deer Introductory Video Source :YouTube screenshot The video we introduced this time showed Yezo sika deer living in herds in Hokkaido's wilderness. The video has many fun facts about the Yezo sika deer, such as characteristics of its antlers, the white furs of their hips, and its general habits, so be sure to take a look if you haven't yet! If you're looking to enjoy Japan's wilderness, look no further than Hokkaido! 【Official Website】Notsuke Peninsula Nature Center Hokkaido Betsukai http://notsuke.jp/ 【Official Website】Yezo Deer Association http://yezodeer.org/ -
Video article 2:43
The Precious Okinawa Rail – A Look at the Awkwardly Adorable Flightless Bird of Kunigami, Okinawa, Registered as a Protected Species!
Living Things- 566 plays
- YouTube
Introducing the Okinawa Rail - A Protected Species in Japan This video, titled “Wild Okinawa rail (Kunigami, Okinawa prefecture) May 11th-12th, 2019(野生の ヤンバルクイナ (沖縄県国頭村) 2019年5月11-12日) introduces the Okinawa rail, a protected species on the Red List of the Ministry of the Environment. The Okinawa rail is also a critically endangered species and a Specified National Endangered Species of Wild Fauna and Flora. They are flightless birds and live only in Okinawa. This video was taken in 2019 on the street in Kunigami, Okinawa prefecture. The bird is an endemic species found only in northern Okinawa prefecture, Kunigami, Ogimison, and Higashison, and is referred to as "Yanbaru." It's a very rare bird, not only in Japan but also around the world. The forest area located in the northern part of Okinawa is called the Yanbaru Forest. Kunigami Village, where wild Okinawa rail (Yanbaru Kuina) appear frequently, is called the Forest of Kuina. There is an Okinawa Rail Ecology Center, and the Yanbaru Kuina observatory is located there. The Ecology of the Okinawa Rail Photo:Okinawa rail The wild Okinawa rail is characterized by the following morphology and characteristics: ・Birds, Order Gruiformes, Family Rallidae, scientific name: Gallirallus okinawae ・Size: approx. 35 cm in length with a weight of 230 gramst ・Wild distribution:The woodlands near Mt. Yonahatake ・Eating habits:Omnivorous ・Nesting:They build nests on the grounds of the forest, and lay about 4 eggs in breeding season. ・They have vestigial wings and are unable to fly, but parent birds have bright red bills and beautifully striped feathers. Chicks have a protective coloring of deep black feathers. ・Their calls are distinctive, and very loud. The Origins of the Name "Yanbaru Kuina," and the History the Okinawa Rail Photo:Okinawa rail The first discovery of the wild Okinawa rail by experts was in 1981, which is actually quite recent. There are various kinds of Rallidae (rails) around the world, but it gained a lot of attention as the first rail species to be discovered in the wild. In Okinawa Prefecture, they were called by different names such as Agachi, Agacha, and Yamadui, depending on the region, and it turned out that they are a species indigenous to the region with a long history. Therefore, they were named Yanbaru Kuina from Yamadui, which means bird of the mountains, using the Kanji "山原"as a phonetic equivalent (pronounced Yanbaru in Okinawa dialect). Other than Yanbaru Kuina, Yanbaru Fumiru and Okinawa Kuina were other possible names. Summary of Very Rare Okinawa Rail Photo:An Okinawa rail crossing sign The Okinawa rail is an endangered species of wild bird that can only be seen in Yanbaru Forest on the main island of Okinawa. Even in Okinawa Prefecture, you cannot see them on remote islands such as Miyako Island. They are a very rare endemic species. The reasons for the decline in the Okinawa rail's population are due to deaths from car accidents and attacks by alien predators such as mongooses, Yellow fever mosquitoes, and stray cats. At 0:10 in the video, an Okinawa rail is seen crossing the road at a brisk pace, raising concerns about traffic accidents. Japan is still an island country with 70% of its land surrounded by forests, and there are many rare wild indigenous species that are only found in Japan, so it is said to be very important for the protection of indigenous species that we do not pollute the natural environment through overexploitation, nor bring dangerous alien species into the country without care. Currently, the Ministry of the Environment is taking the lead in protecting the Okinawa rail, breeding mates, increasing their numbers, and returning them to the wild. However, it is important not only to protect them strictly, but also to make people widely aware of Okinawa rails. In this way there are goods such as stuffed animals sold at roadside stations and airport shops in Okinawa. These awareness raising activities are also part of the important protection policies. -
Video article 8:37
Shiba Inu is a dignified and unique breed of dog!Learn about the types, personalities and characteristics through videos!
Living Things- 38 plays
- YouTube
Shiba Inu - The Only Small Dog Among Japanese Dogs Photo:A Shiba Inu standing in a rice field This video, titled "No.7 Shiba inu ❤️ TOP100 Cute Dog Breeds Video," was uploaded by "I want a dog! A dog channel for beginners." This video introduces the cute Shiba Inu, including everything from their personality to how much exercise they need, as well as things to know before owning one. Be sure to check it out as you read along. The History of the Shiba Inu, a Dog Native to Japan Photo:A Mino Shiba Inu Of the six types of dogs native to Japan (Japanese dogs), the Shiba Inu is the only small Japanese dog. It's said that the origins of the Shiba Inu may originate from the "Jomon Inu," which is said to have coexisted with humans as early as the Jomon Period (710-794). The Shiba Inu has been kept as a hunting dog for small animals and birds in various parts of Honshu (mainland Japan) since ancient times. It's said that 80% of all Japanese dogs kept in Japan are Shiba Inu. There are several types of Shiba Inu, including the San'in Shiba Inu, Shinshu Shiba Inu, and Mino Shiba Inu, but the Shinshu Shiba Inu lineage currently accounts for the majority. Unfortunately, there is only a small number of Shiba Inu, and some breeds are in danger of extinction. The Shiba Inu was also in danger of extinction due to crossbreeding with Western dogs at the end of the Taisho Period (1912-1926), food shortages during World War II, and distemper (a viral disease found in domestic animals), but thanks to the efforts of people wishing to preserve the breed, breeding improved and the Shiba Inu is still around today. In recent years, research has shown that the Shiba Inu is the closest dog breed to the wolf. [Video] 2:23 - The History of the Shiba Inu [Video] 2:53 - The Shiba Inu - The Closest Dog Breed to a Wolf? The 2 Kinds of Shiba Inu Faces - Fox Face and Raccoon Face Photo:A fox face Shiba Inu There are two main types of Shiba Inu faces: The fox face, and the raccoon face. The fox face is characterized by a long, stern face, a long muzzle (the part around the dog's mouth), and a shallow forehead. This type is similar to the ancestral dogs of the Jomon period. The raccoon face is characterized by a round face, short muzzle, and a round nose and eyes, more modern characteristics. It can be difficult to tell which face a Shibu Inu has when they are puppies, so you'll need to check the pedigree with the breeder. [Video] 0:53 - Shiba Inu Face Types The 4 Different Coat Colors of Shiba Inu Photo:A black-coated Shiba Inu In addition to their different face types, Shiba Inu have 4 different coat colors: These are red, black, sesame, and white. ●Red (Brown) The red coat accounts for 80% of all Shiba Inu, and when most people think of a Shiba Inu, they tend to picture this coat color. ●Black The black coat covers the entire body of the Shiba Inu, with the chest and belly often being white. The black color is also characterized by the eyebrow-like spots above the eyes. The color makes their bodies look tighter, giving them a dignified appearance in spite of their small size. ●White White is the rarest color of Shiba Inu. Some dogs are born with a red coat, but it gradually changes to white. Because of its rarity, until recently it was not uncommon for a pedigree to be issued for a white Shiba, but there have been some cases where the color has been recognized at exhibitions. ●Sesame This coat color is a mixture of red, black, and white, and is classified as sesame, red sesame, or black sesame according to the ratio of these colors. As they develop, the ratio of the coat color changes, and you can enjoy watching your Shiba Inu grow. Besides red (brown), other coat colors are quite uncommon. [Video] 1:40 - Shiba Inu Coat Colors Shiba Inu Size, Weight, and Other Characteristics + The Unique Mame-Shiba Photo:A Shiba Inu's tail The Shiba Inu's outward appearance is characterized by its dense, stiff short hair and curly tail. It's said that there are nine different types of tails, so be sure to pay attention to the shape of the tail as well as the face and coat color. The average life span of a Shiba Inu is 15.1 years. It's a long-lived breed among small dogs. The average height of a Shiba Inu is 39.5 cm (15.5 in) for males and 36.5 cm (~14.5 in) for females, and the average weight is 10 kg (22 lbs) for males and 8 kg (~17.5 lbs) for females. The "Mame Shiba," which has become popular in Japan in recent years, is smaller than the standard Shiba, with an average large height of 28 cm to 34 cm (11-13.5 in) and an average weight of around 5 kg (11 lbs). The even smaller "Ko-Mame Shiba" is about 24 cm long (~9.5 in) and weighs about 2 kg (~4.5 lbs), so even as an adult it looks like a puppy and is popular for its adorable appearance. Neither the Mame Shiba nor the Ko-Mame Shiba are recognized as official breeds, but rather, are considered to be small Shiba Inu. Their personalities and how they are cared for are the same as that of regular Shiba Inu, but because of their smaller size, they are said to be a little more pampered than their regular Shiba Inu counterparts. [Video] 3:23 - How Big is a Shiba Inu? Things to Know Before Caring for a Shiba Inu Photo:A sleeping Shiba Inu Before committing to raising a Shiba Inu, it's important to first learn about their personalities. Shiba Inu are said to be smart and loyal, and tend to be affectionate to no one but their owners. They are also stubborn and cautious, so socialization training is important. Shiba Inu should be trained to avoid barking and biting when they are puppies. By way of gender comparison, females are more docile than males. To develop a sociable personality, it's important to expose them to other dogs and people outside the family from a young age, and to familiarize them with various places. Additionally, because Shiba Inu are very territorial and susceptible to stress, it's important to give them their space. If you keep your dog indoors, you should prepare an enclosure for it, and if you keep it outside, you should provide a kennel. If you keep your dog outside, place the kennel on soil, not concrete, to avoid heat stroke. [Video] 4:15 - How to Take Care of a Shiba Inu How Much Exercise Does a Shiba Inu Need? Photo:A Shiba Inu walking The Shiba Inu was originally a hunting dog, and as such, is a very athletic breed. For an adult dog, it's sometimes said that the ideal exercise distance is equal to the dog's body weight (e.g. 10 kg = 10 km), but if you continue to exercise your dog every day, long distances may be difficult for both you and your dog to keep up. A good starting point is to exercise the dog for 30 minutes, twice a day, every day. Sinec every dog varies, if your dog seems to be under stress due to lack of exercise, then you should be sure to take it on more walks, and give it more opportunities for exercise. [Video] 5:16 - How Much Exercise Does a Shiba Inu Need? How Much Does it Cost to Own a Shiba Inu Photo:A Shiba Inu If you wish to own a Shiba Inu, you can adopt a rescue, or purchase one from a pet store. According to the American Kennel Club, the average price for a Shiba Inu tends to be around $2,000-$4,000. The price can also vary depending on the color of the coat. Common diseases that Shiba Inu are prone to include skin diseases (atopic dermatitis)" and food allergies, as well as dementia, patellar luxation, cataracts, and otitis externa (inflammation of the external ear canal). although it can be difficult because of the large amount of hair that falls out, because Shiba Inu are especially prone to skin diseases, it's important to keep their bodies clean and brush them carefully when they are shedding. Compared to many other breeds, the Shiba Inu is said to be relatively disease-free. However, you should not let your guard down, so be on the lookout for changes on a daily basis. [Video] 2:10 - Where to Get a Shiba Inu [Video] 5:57 - Diseases Shiba Inu Are Prone To Summary of the Shiba Inu Photo:A sleeping Shiba Inu If you're thinking about caring for a Shiba Inu, it's important to understand its personality, socialize it properly, and provide it with an appropriate environment. [Video] 6:56 - Shiba Inu Review ・Shiba Inu have a history of being hunting dogs, so you should not think of them as pets. ・Shiba Inu are known to bite, so it's important to train them after adopting one. ・Shiba Inu shed a lot of fur and are prone to skin diseases, so be sure to keep them clean and brush them frequently when they are shedding. ・Shiba Inu need a lot of exercise, so they should be walked daily. Be careful not to overwork them. ・Japanese dogs are prone to dementia. Shiba Inu are smart and loyal to their owners. It's important to understand their characteristics and traits so that you can live together with them for a long time. -
Video article 4:51
The Iriomote Cat - Spectacular Footage of the Okinawan Cat With a Population of Just 100! Its Incredible Ability to Adapt to Nature Keeps It Alive
Living Things- 1.21K plays
- YouTube
The Nationally Protected "Iriomote Cat" This video, "Iriomote cat," was created by "okinawastoryMediaLib," and features special footage of the rare and endangered species- the Iriomote cat. In this article, we bring you facts and information on the ecology of the Iriomote cat, a subspecies of the Leopard cat. From 00:24 in the video, you can see the carnivorous Iriomote cat search for and successfully find food amongst the fallen leaves. The Iriomote cat looks different from a domestic cat in several ways: it has round ears with a cloudy white mark on its back (a feature found in many wild cats), a thick, bushy tail, its fur has a spotted pattern, and the area surrounding the eyes is white in color. Take a look at the unique features of the Iriomote cat in this video! More About the Iriomote Cat, a Species Endemic to the Iriomote Island of Okinawa Photo:Iriomote cat The Iriomote cat, native to Iriomote Island, is often referred to as Yamapikarya or Yamamaya by the locals. The call of an Iriomote cat sounds similar to that of a domestic cat, however they rarely cry. Unfortunately, the number of Iriomote cats is decreasing and there are thought to be only around 100 cats remaining on Iriomote Island. In 1965, when the Iriomote cat was first discovered on Iriomote Island, it was thought to be a new species. However, research has categorized the Iriomote cat as a member of the genus Prionailurus, family Felidae. Other than the domesticated cat, the Iriomote cat of Iriomote Island and the leopard cat (scientific name: Prionailurus bengalensis euptilurus) of Nagasaki prefecture's Tsushima Island are the only two known cat species to inhabit Japan. Iriomote cats are nocturnal animals who live in the mountain forest. Outside of breeding season they tend to live a solitary life. The average weight of an Iriomote cat is 3-4kg, with an average height 50-60cm, and an average life span of 7-8 years in the wild. They have a varied diet that consists of small mammals, birds, reptiles, frogs and insects. The breeding season is from February to April during which time they stick to their territory avoiding potential rivals (other members of the same sex). Unfortunately, the survival of the Iriomote cat is under threat from the continued development destroying their habitat, traffic accidents, and contagious diseases. There are no zoos or facilities that breed or raise Iriomote cats. However, the Iriomote Wildlife Conservation Center strives to protect the Iriomote cat and at the facility you can learn about the rare cat through various materials, documents, and even stuffed animals. You can also purchase cute Iriomote cat plush toys, T-shirts, and other Iriomote cat related goods at the Iriomote Island Tourist Center. Summary of the Iriomote Cat Source :YouTube screenshot Please take a look at the beautiful Iriomote cat in this video as it's incredibly rare to catch a glimpse of this endangered species in the wild. From 3:51 in the video, you can even see some rare footage of the Iriomote cat climbing a tree. We hope you enjoyed watching this precious footage of the Iriomote cat! 【Official Website】Iriomote Wildlife Conservation Center, Iriomote cat https://iwcc.jp/iriomotecat/cat/ -
Video article 2:24
The Cute Ezo Momonga - Discover the Flying Squirrels of Japan!
Living Things- 3.94K plays
- YouTube
Japan's Flying Squirrels This introductory video, titled "3 Flying Squirrels" (匹のモモンガ), was created by Shinji Kawamura. It captures footage of three flying squirrels. The Ezo momonga (Ezo flying squirrel), native to Hokkaido, Japan (known in Japanese as "Ezo Momonga," scientific name: Pteromys volans orii) are small mammals who are members of the order Rodentia, family Sciuridae, and subfamily Sciurinae and belong to the tribe Pteromyini. The characteristic feature of the flying squirrel is its gliding membrane which allows it to glide distances of 20 to 50 meters. They are nocturnal animals who are very active at night. They tend to live in small groups, and as you can see in this video, these three flying squirrels live in the same tree burrow. They reach about 15cm in length, small enough to fit in the palm of your hand. They are omnivorous animals, feeding on mainly tree leaf buds, flowers, leaves, bark and seeds. At 0:49 in the video, you can see how they grasp the twigs carefully in their tiny hands and nibble away at the buds. The sight of them grasping the branches with their nimble fingers is adorable! See for yourself! Differences Between the Wild Ezo Momonga and Popular Pet Sugar Glider Photo:Ezo flying squirrel Flying squirrels and Sugar Gliders are similar in appearance but they differ in their scientific classification. Flying Squirrels are members of the Rodentia order, and Sciuridae family, whereas Sugar Gliders are members of the Marsupialia order, and Petauridae family. In other words, flying squirrels are rodents similar to squirrels whereas sugar gliders are marsupials, similar to kangaroos and other animals with a pouch used to carry their young. The sugar gliders you find in most pet stores are friendly and used to being around humans, making them easier to care for than flying squirrels. The cost of buying a sugar glider varies depending on the color of its coat, although a typical brown sugar glider usually costs around 20,000 yen. The average life expectancy of a sugar glider is 5 to 7 years and they feed mostly on fruits, nuts and berries. They communicate through various calls; however, they are relatively quiet animals and easy to look after making them popular as pets in recent years. Differences Between Wild Flying Squirrels and the Japanese Giant Flying Squirrel Photo:Japanese giant flying squirrel Flying squirrels and the Japanese Giant flying squirrel are both members of the Rodentia order, and Sciurinae subfamily and belong to the Pteromyini tribe; however, the Japanese Giant flying squirrel also belongs to the Petaurista genus. In the past they were thought to be of the same species. The Japanese Giant flying squirrel has a larger body than a flying squirrel, roughly double the size. Thanks to its size, the Japanese Giant flying squirrel can also glide significantly further, up to a distance of 100 meters. The Flying Squirrels Native to Japan and the Southern Flying Squirrel The wild flying squirrels of Japan are under threat from the Southern flying squirrel. There is concern over the cross-breeding of Southern flying squirrels and wild Japanese flying squirrels. Southern flying squirrels are an invasive species and the importation of such species is prohibited in order to prevent any damage to the ecosystem of the Japanese flying squirrels. Summary of Japan's Flying Squirrels Source :YouTube screenshot How did you find the video? We hope it helps you understand the difference between the Ezo Momonga and other small, similar-looking mammals. This video gives you a great view of the white, fluffy-coated Ezo Momonga as it plays in the tree tops. I think the footage at 1:06 of them slipping into their tiny tree burrow will bring a smile to your face! Enjoy taking a close look at the wonderful Ezo Momonga, an animal that, because of its small size, is hard to catch a glimpse of in nature! -
Video article 3:05
An Encounter With the Specially Protected Rock Ptarmigan While Mountain Climbing! A Look at the Ecology of the Endangered Species and Where You Can Find It!
Living Things Nature- 224 plays
- YouTube
The Rock Ptarmigan - An Endangered Species This video, titled "Endangered Species|Rock Ptarmigan|A Precious Encounter Whilst Mountain Climbing|Special Edition (4k)" (絶滅危惧種 雷鳥 登山で出会った貴重なニホンライチョウ動画 特集 【4K】), was created by "Yamacchi channel" (やまっちchannel). It contains footage of the rock ptarmigan, a protected species in Japan, as well as the Crested ibis and Red-crowned crane. Due to the effects of global warming, the number of rock ptarmigan in Japan has dwindled to around 1,500 and it is now recognized as an endangered species. This video contains a compilation of footage of the adorable rock ptarmigan, which was spotted whilst mountain climbing. In this article, we'll introduce the rock ptarmigan, an endangered species! More About the Rock Ptarmigan, an Endangered Species Photo:Tateyama ptarmigan Said to have survived the ice age, the rock ptarmigan is now an endangered species belonging to the order Galliformes, family Phasianidae and genus Lagopus (キジ目キジ科ライチョウ属, kijimokukijikaraichouzoku). The subspecies of rock ptarmigan which inhabits Japan is a very adorable and friendly bird, making it a favorite among mountain climbers. It has a characteristic call that sounds similar to that of a frog. From 0:14 in the video you can see the rock ptarmigan at Mt. Senjo (仙丈ヶ岳, senjogatake), and at Mt. Tsubakuro (燕岳, tsubakurodake) from 1:38, Mt. Chogatake (蝶ヶ岳, chougatake) from 2:09, and Mt. Jonen (常念岳, jounendake) at 2:04. Rock ptarmigan chicks average 6 cm in height. A fully grown adult rock ptarmigan measures 37 cm in height and weighs approximately 400-600g. They lay their eggs in early summer from the beginning to the middle of June. The color of their feathers also changes depending on the season. In summer, their feathers are a dark brown color, and in winter they change to a snowy white. Furthermore, the rock ptarmigan is a symbol of Toyama Prefecture (富山県 toyamaken), Nagano Prefecture (長野県, naganoken) and Gifu Prefecture (岐阜県, gifuken). Photo:Northern Alps The rock ptarmigan lives in a harsh environment at an altitude of 2,400 m. In the warmer summer months they live in the alpine zone, moving to the subalpine zone in the cooler winter months. In 1980, there were an estimated 3,000-4,000 rock ptarmigans living in Japan. However that number has dropped to around 1,500. The effects of global warming are considered to have been the direct cause of this decrease in numbers. It is thought that the decrease in creeping pine (ハイマツ, haimatsu) numbers, a main food source for the rock ptarmigan, due to global warming is one of the main causes of the decline in rock ptarmigan numbers. Several measures are being taken in order to conserve the rock ptarmigan, such as protecting the species from predators and breeding in zoos. Incidentally, rock ptarmigans have been kept in Ueno zoo (上野動物園, uenodoubutsuen) since 2019. The Habitat of the Endangered Rock Ptarmigan Photo:Tateyama mountain range and a ptarmigan There are 6 genera and 17 species of rock ptarmigan found across the world. They can be found in North America, the coast of the Arctic Ocean in Eurasia, Europe, and the alpine zone in Asia. In Japan, they inhabit the central area of Honshu (Japan's main island) (本州中部地方, honshuuchuubuchihou). In this video, you can see footage of the rock ptarmigan spotted whilst climbing Mt. Senjo, Mt. Chogatake, Mt. Tsubakuro and Mt. Jonen. Snacks shaped like rock ptarmigan are sold in Nagano prefecture, the home of the Northern Alps. A similar bird, the Hazel grouse (エゾライチョウ, ezoraichou), of the genus Tetrastes (エゾライチョウ属, ezoraichouzoku), inhabits Hokkaido (北海道), Japan's northernmost Island. Summary of the Endangered Rock Ptarmigan Source :YouTube screenshot This video "Endangered Species|Rock Ptarmigan|a Precious Encounter Whilst Mountain Climbing|Special Edition (4k)," created by "Yamacchi channel" (やまっちchannel), contains footage of the rock ptarmigan, an endangered species. We highly recommend the video to animal lovers as it has footage of the rock ptarmigan from different places all over Japan! This video of the adorable rock ptarmigan is guaranteed to bring a smile to your face! -
Video article 2:56
Enjoy Bird Watching at This Bird Oasis in Tokyo! Introducing Bird Watching & Photography Spots!
Living Things- 166 plays
- YouTube
Bird Watching in Tokyo, Japan – Video Introduction This video, titled "An oasis where Japanese wild birds gather /4K," was uploaded by "Birdlover.jp," a channel that introduces rare and seasonal wild birds found in Japan. Birds You Can Observe in Tokyo Tokyo is the capital of Japan. Despite being the largest urban area in Japan, even in the Tokyo metropolitan area, there are many wild birds to be seen. In the parks of Tokyo, you can see a wide variety of birds, including brown-eared bulbuls, pale thrushes, hawfinches, dusky thrushes, sandpipers, brown-headed thrushes, white-cheeked starlings and many more. Brown-Eared Bulbuls, Pale Thrushes, Hawfinches, and Dusky Thrushes – A Look at the Birds in the Video Photo:Pale thrush While birdwatching in Tokyo, you can see many different types of wild birds. Here are some characteristics of each. Brown-Eared Bulbuls: Gray plumage with a pattern of white spots on their bellies. They have a high-pitched call. Their beaks are elongated at the tip to suck nectar from flowers. Pale Thrushes: About the size of a brown-eared bulbul, the pale thrush has a cute appearance. They can sometimes be seen flitting about parks. Hawfinches: Larger than sparrows and characterized by their sharp eyes. You can see a hawfinch drinking water in the video. [Video] 1:30 - A Hawfinch Drinking Water Dusky Thrushes: The white line above their eyes looks like an eyebrow. They fly from Siberia to Tokyo in winter and stay in Japan until around April. Bird Watching & Photography Spots Photo:Inokashira Park So where can you see wild birds in Tokyo? Here are some spots we recommend for birdwatching and photographing wild birds. ・Inokashira Onshi Park In 1917, Inokashira Onshi Park was opened as Japan's first suburban park. It is a popular spot for birdwatching and bird photography. ・Mizumoto Park The largest park in Tokyo's 23 wards, Mizumoto Park is a popular place to watch kingfishers, grey herons, and other birds. ・Tokyo Port Wild Bird Park Tokyo Port Wild Bird Park was originally built on land reclaimed from the sea. It is said that wild birds naturally gathered in the park due to its favorable environment. Many wild birds can be seen here, including warbling white-eyes, Japanese tits, sandpipers, plovers, ducks, and more. ・Meiji Jingu Shrine Kingfishers, woodpeckers, and pale thrushes can be seen at Meiji Jingu Shrine. Although Meiji Jingu Shrine is located in Harajuku, it is home to a large number of wild birds, which is unexpected given its urban setting. ・Kiyosumi Garden At Kiyosumi Garden, you can see white-cheeked starling, eastern spot-billed ducks, and Eurasian wigeons. The Japanese garden is an attractive place to observe many wild birds amongst lovely scenery. ・Shinjuku Gyoen Shinjuku Gyoen is known as a unique bird-watching spot in central Tokyo, where visitors can observe goshawks, tits, and other birds. The Wild Bird Society of Japan The Wild Bird Society of Japan, Tokyo was formed on September 13, 1947 and is dedicated to bird watching and bird conservation. The organization engages in a variety of activities, including observing wild birds in Tokyo with other members, and conducting conservation activities in parks where wild birds are found. Summary of Bird Watching in Tokyo Photo:Bird watching Some people may find it hard to imagine that there are so many wild birds in Japan's capital, Tokyo. But in reality, many wild birds can be seen in the city, including at places like Tokyo Port Wild Bird Park, Shinjuku Gyoen, and Meiji Jingu Shrine. Bird-watching events held by the Wild Bird Society of Japan, Tokyo, can be enjoyed by beginners as well. Another attraction is that you can observe different types of wild birds throughout Japan's four seasons: warbling white-eyes and brown-eared bulbuls in spring, dusky thrushes and pale thrushes in winter, and so on. If you visit any of the places introduced here, be sure to listen for the sounds of birds. You may discover the charms of bird watching even in the big city. -
Video article 8:06
Learn About the White-Tailed Eagle's Ecosystem and More. See It Soaring Through the Skies Above the Nemuro Strait in Hokkaido, Japan
Living Things Nature- 78 plays
- YouTube
White-tailed Eagles in the Nemuro Strait of Hokkaido, Japan: Video Introduction This video, titled "White-tailed Eagles" (オジロワシ), was uploaded by "Gaiapress Channel." Along with footage of white-tailed eagles living in Hokkaido, it provides detailed explanations of their ecosystem. It's a great opportunity for those interested in nature and the birds of Hokkaido to learn more about the area. Be sure to read on to learn more. The White-tailed Eagle Photo:A white-tailed eagle The white-tailed eagle is a bird belonging to the Accipitridae family and the Pandionidae genus. It lives near coastlines, rivers, and lakes, and is often found alone or in pairs. It is a carnivore and feeds on fish, birds, mammals, animal carcasses, young hares, and quail chicks. [Video] 0:12 - The White-tailed Eagle The white-tailed eagles’ size ranges from 80cm for males to 94cm for females, with a wingspan of 180-220cm. They have a distinct call, with males making a "gri-gri-gri" sound and the females a "gra-gra-gra-gra" sound. White-tailed eagles that breed in northern Eurasia migrate to areas around China and the Persian Gulf for the winter. In recent years their breeding rate has decreased, and they have been designated as a domestic endangered wild animal species, as well as a protected species since 1970. The Habitat of White-Tailed Eagles and Where to See Them in Japan Photo:A white-tailed eagle catching a fish On the Nemuro Peninsula, located between the Shiretoko Peninsula and Kunashir Island, you can see drift ice that has drifted southward from the Amur River. In the video, you can see white-tailed eagles on the drift ice as well. [Video] 0:27 - White-tailed Eagles on Drift Ice The natural habitat of white-tailed eagles is Eurasia, Europe and East and West Asia. In Japan, they mostly migrate to northern Japan, and in Hokkaido, they breed in small numbers. It takes 6-7 years for white-tailed eagles to become fully mature birds. When they are young, they have brown tail feathers, but when they become adults, their tail feathers turn white and their beaks turn yellow. Feeding Habits of Japanese White-Tailed Eagles In the video, you can see white-tailed eagles congregating, targeting fish lurking under the sea ice. The Nemuro Strait is home to a thriving pollock population, and white-tailed eagles gather there to take advantage of the abundant supply of pollock. [Video] 2:07 - A White-Tailed Eagle Stalking a Walleye Pollack Birds of the hawk family that feed primarily on fish are called sea eagles. White-tailed and Steller's sea eagles are typical examples of sea eagles, and salmon and cod are their favorite catch. You can see them preying on them in the video. [Video] 2:43 - A White-Tailed Eagle Feeding White-tailed Eagles and Steller's Sea Eagles Occupying the Nemuro Peninsula On the Nemuro Peninsula, coastal areas where fishing is carried out are inhabited by crows and seagulls, but about 6 miles offshore, there are birds of prey such as white-tailed eagles and eagles. White-tailed eagles occupy and settle down in favorable locations, such as high places with good visibility or suitable winds in snowy weather. A Group of White-Tailed Eagles Flying Above a Nest Photo:A white-tailed eagle flying through the skies In the video, you can see a group of white-tailed eagles gathering in the mountains. Their nest is located in a place far from the sea. [Video] 4:25 - White-tailed Eagles Gathering in the Mountains "Kettle" is the word used to describe a group of eagles or hawks rising together like a thermal updraft and flying into the sky. In the case of white-tailed eagles, they also form "kettles" regardless of migration. One of the characteristics of white-tailed eagles is that multiple adult birds can be found perching on one tree. [Video] 4:49 - A Kettle of White-tailed Eagles Facts About White-tailed Eagles and Their Vision The video also talks about the white-tailed eagle's vision. White-tailed eagles are known for their narrow upward sight, and it's believed that their eyes do not work in situations with little contrast, such as snowstorms. [Video] 6:05 - Regarding the Sight of White-tailed Eagles White-tailed eagles are also known to fatally crash into wind turbines. Most accidents involve hitting a wind turbine from above, which seems to be related to the narrowness of their visual field. Such accidents are commonly known as "bird strikes." Difference Between White-tailed Eagles and Steller's Sea Eagles Photo:Stellar's sea eagles eyeing fish from above the drift ice The bird with white shoulders is the Steller's sea eagle, and the bird that looks brownish all over is the white-tailed eagle. Both are large birds of prey that have wingspans over 2 meters when fully spread. If you visit the Nemuro Peninsula for sightseeing, you'll now be able to tell the difference with this information! [Video] 0:51 - White-tailed Eagles and Stellar's Sea Eagles White-tailed eagles, have many similarities to Stellar's sea eagles, such as not being susceptible to avian influenza. However, there are differences in minor details, such as the fact that they move in flocks and have gentle personalities. Summary of White-tailed Eagles Hokkaido, where this video was shot, is home to a variety of wildlife and plants. On the Nemuro Peninsula, in addition to white-tailed eagles and Stellar's sea eagles, there are also tours for bird watching. You can see wild birds such as the red-crowned crane, the red-flanked bluetail, and the hazel grouse. Take a trip to the wilderness of Hokkaido and enjoy bird watching in winter! -
Video article 2:26
Cute Capybaras Enjoying Hot Springs With Fruit on Their Heads at Izu Shaboten Zoo!
Living Things Things to Do Travel- 3.09K plays
- YouTube
Introducing the Open-Air Capybara Bath of the Izu Shaboten Zoo This video, titled "Capybara with mandarin orange on head in the open-air bath☆みかんを頭にのせるカピバラ 伊豆シャボテン動物公園【元祖カピバラの露天風呂】," was released by "HIRO@sea." The video shows capybaras enjoying a relaxing soak in an open-air bath. The capybaras can be found at the Izu Shaboten Zoo, in Futo, Ito City, Shizuoka Prefecture in Japan's Tokai Region. Just like humans, the capybara enjoy a warm bath. The water is filled with yuzu, a type of citrus fruit. You can see the capybara with a yuzu on its head at 1:46 in the video! In this article, we'll introduce the Izu Shaboten Zoo and its open-air capybara bath. The Izu Shaboten Zoo Photo:Izu Shaboten Zoo The Izu Shaboten Zoo is a theme park in Futo, Ito City, Shizuoka. The Zoo is known for animals and cacti. The zoo was opened around 60 years ago, in October of 1959. The 200,000-square-meter park, which opened around 60 years ago in October 1959, has a greenhouse with cacti and succulents from all over the world. There's also kangaroos, capybaras, anteaters, squirrel monkeys, red pandas, chimpanzees, ponies, wild birds, the ever-popular motionless bobwhite stork, and a variety of other animals. The zoo is home to around 800 animals and birds, including flamingos, peacocks, and fennec foxes. The cacti are divided into five sections: the South American Pavilion, the African Pavilion, the Madagascar Pavilion, the Mexico Pavilion, and the Forest Cactus Pavilion. There are edible cacti available for tasting as well. In 2016, the official Japanese name of the zoo was changed from the former "Izu Shaboten Park" (伊豆シャボテン公園) to the current "Izu Shaboten Zoological Park" (伊豆シャボテン動物公園). A little to the east of Izu Shaboten Zoo, there's Izu Granpal Park, Izu Kogen Tabi no Eki Granpal Port, New York Lamp Museum & Flower Garden, and the Izu Oceanic Park Diving Center as part of the Izu Shaboten Zoological Park Group. Izu Shaboten Animal Park also has life-size replicas of a sculpture of ancient American civilization, and the entire Izu Shaboten Zoological Park Group has a wide range of attractions, from animals and plants to artifacts, park golf, the "Ship-shaped 3D Maze KAiZOKU," "Zip Line 風KAZE," "Water Balloons," and more. There's also "Wan Wan Park," a dog run where you can enjoy taking your dog, and the "Izu Kogen Grand Illumination," a hands-on style illumination. Nearby, the official hotels "Izu Shaboten Village" and "Izu Shaboten Village GLAMPING" can be found. You can fully enjoy your Izu Shaboten experience with an overnight stay at either one of these locations. The Open Air Capybara Bath Photo:Open-air capybara bath Firstly, what exactly are capybaras? Capybaras are members of the caviidae family of rodents, native to South America. They can be found from Panama to the northeast of Argentina. They are large (106-134 centimeters in length), have a gentle nature and are known to be very friendly towards humans. They tend to be found in groups of 10 to 20. A group of capybaras can be seen soaking in the bath together from 0:07 in the video. The open-air capybara bath shown in the video has been a tradition of the Izu Shaboten Zoo since 1982. At that time, the zookeepers were washing the exhibit with warm water when the capybaras began to soak in the puddles. Thereafter, the zookeepers came up with the idea of preparing warm baths for the capybaras. Now, the capybara bath has become a winter tradition. Nowadays, many zoos in Japan have introduced their own capybara baths, but the originator is none other than the Izu Shaboten Zoo. The zoo even has a capybara mascot known as "Capyba." Summary of the Izu Shaboten Zoo Source :【Official Website】Izu Shaboten Zoo Due to the coronavirus pandemic in 2020, to uphold social distancing rules, capybara and red panda plush toys are placed between seats at the zoo as well as the restaurant "Forest Animal Restaurant GIBBONTEI." The adorable image of the plush toys seated in the restaurant has generated buzz online, and has even been shown on the news. The plush toy and calendar can be purchased at the gift shop within the zoo. Many goods are also available on the official online shop "IZU SHABOTEN HONPO," so do take a look! Take a moment to relax and check out this heartwarming video. ◆Izu Shaboten Zoo Facilities Overview◆ 【Address】1317-13 Tomido, Itou City, Shizuoka Prefecture 【Access】From JR Atami Station, get off at JR Ito Station on the Ito Line, and take the Tokai Bus for Shaboten Zoo (~35 minutes). 【Admission Fee】Adults: 2,400 yen Elementary School Students: 1,200 yen Children (over the age of 4): 400 yen Discounts for groups, seniors, and persons with disabilities, as well as coupon deals, are also available. 【Hours】9:00-17:00 【Closures】None 【Avg. Time Spent Here】2+ Hours 【Parking】400 regular spaces, 500 yen|Buses: 18 spaces, 1,000 yen 【Official Website】Izu Shaboten Zoo https://izushaboten.com/lang/index.html 【Tripadvisor】Izu Shaboten Zoo https://www.tripadvisor.com/Attraction_Review-g298123-d1196864-Reviews-Izu_Shaboten_Zoo-Ito_Shizuoka_Prefecture_Tokai_Chubu.html -
Video article 2:02
Capybaras Relaxing in Hot Springs at Saitama Children's Zoo
Living Things- 2.61K plays
- YouTube
Adorable Capybaras Enjoying the Hot Springs! Capybaras are the largest members of the rodent family, and the video 「みんなで入浴 カピバラ温泉~桶風呂~始めました! 2017.12.5(埼玉県こども動物自然公園 公式/SaitamaChildrensZoo official )capybara onsen』, created by 「埼玉県こども動物自然公園(SaitamaChildrensZoo)」compiles scenes of capybaras enjoying bathing in the hot springs. These scenes of six capybaras considerately entering the hot springs together will warm your heart. The video has also become popular, not only among the Japanese, but also with people from overseas. The Capybaras Introduced in the Video, and Why They’re in the Hot Springs Photo:Capybaras Capybaras are members of the rodent family, and can be found from Panama in South America, all the way to Northeast Argentina. With calm and gentle personalities, capybaras are also popular as pets, and are the largest members of the rodent family, growing up to 106 to 134 centimeters. Males weigh around 77 to 141 pounds, while females weigh around 81 to 145 kilograms. Being proficient swimmers, capybaras tend to escape to the water once they sense approaching danger. They can remain underwater for up to 5 minutes. Although the water is their shelter and haven, due to their warm natural habitat, capybaras are weak to the cold. As a countermeasure to combat cold winters, the “Capybara Hot Springs” was created. The Capybara Hot Springs and the Saitama Children's Zoo Source :YouTube screenshot The Saitama Children's Zoo holds a “Capybara Hot Springs” event every year. The event lasts from November through March, with the location being at the Capybara/Wallaby enclosure. Pools built to look like rock baths are filled with water warmed to a suitable temperature by the sun. Besides the unique springs such as the yuzu bath, a waterfall bath and tub bath are also prepared. The video begins with five capybaras heading towards the hot springs. Of the five, three enter the bath with floating yuzu, one makes for the smaller tub bath, and the last heads for the waterfall bath. Without any jostling or competition for space, the atmosphere is calm and peaceful. From 1:22 in the video, another capybara appears. The scene of this capybara unobtrusively lowering itself backside-first into the yuzu bath is extremely heartwarming. From 1:43 in the video, the capybara in the waterfall bath can be seen wiping its face, and from 1:53 is seen staring peacefully into space, contently settling into the water. The fact that these capybaras act just like little humans will bring a smile to your face. In the Saitama Children's Zoo, you can enjoy viewing the capybaras while warming your feet in the foot baths. Why not stop by and enjoy the relaxing hot springs together with the capybaras? Saitama Children's Zoo Photo:Saitama Children's Zoo Saitama Children's Zoo is a spacious park located in Saitama Prefecture, Higashi-Matsuyama City in Japan's Kanto region (関東地方・埼玉県東松山市, Kanto-chiho・Saitama-ken Higashi-matsuyama-shi). Besides the zoo, the park also boasts the "Children’s Castle" (こどもの城, Kodomo no jo) as well as a large playground (みんなの広場, Minna no hiroba) where children can run around and play. In the playground is the “Adventure Forest Athletics” area (冒険の森アスレチック, Bouken-no-mori asurechikku) as well as the “Shabu-shabu Pond” (じゃぶじゃぶ池, Shabu-shabu ike) with water activites. Here, children can enjoy playing and being active. In the animal area, pony-riding as well as animal-feeding activities are available. Also, from September of 2019, the “Small Animals Enclosure” (ecoハウチュー, eco hauchu) was opened. There, you can observe small animals such as hedgehogs. Where to Enjoy Japan's Capybara Hot Springs Photo:Capybara hot springs, Kobe Animal Kingdom Below is a list of some of the capybara hot spring areas throughout Japan. With so many facilities available, you're sure to be able to enjoy the capybara hot springs! Hokkaido ・Banya no Yu (番屋の湯) [Ishikari, Hokkaido] ・North Safari Sapporo (ノースサファリサッポロ) [Sapporo, Hokkaido] Tohoku/Kanto Regions ・Akita Omoriyama Zoo (秋田市大森山動物園) [Akita Prefecture] ・Nasu Animal Kingdom (那須どうぶつ王国) [Tochigi Prefecture] ・Kusatsu Tropical Wonderland (草津熱帯園) [Gunma Prefecture] ・Aloha Garden Tateyama (アロハガーデンたてやま) [Chiba Prefecture] ・Mother Farm (マザー牧場) [Chiba Prefecture] ・Yokosuka Soleil Hill (長井海の手公園ソレイユの丘) [Kanagawa Prefecture] Chubu Region ・Ishikawa Zoo (いしかわ動物園) [Ishikawa Prefecture] ・Asuwayama Amusement Park (足羽山公園遊園地) [Fukui Prefecture] ・Suzaka Zoo (須坂市動物園) [Nagano Prefecture] ・Izu Shaboten Zoo (伊豆シャボテン動物公園) [Shizuoka Prefecture] ・Toyohashi Zoo and Botanical Park (豊橋総合動植物公園 のんほいパーク) [Aichi Prefecture] Kansai/Chugoku Regions ・Kobe Animal Kingdom (神戸どうぶつ王国) [Hyogo Prefecture] ・Himeji Central Park (姫路セントラルパーク) [Hyogo Prefecture] ・Daisen Tom Sawyer Pasture (大山トム・ソーヤ牧場) [Tottori Prefecture] ・Ikeda Zoo (池田動物園) [Okayama Prefecture] Shikoku/Kyushu Region ・New Reoma World (レオマリゾート) [Kagawa Prefecture] ・Tobe Zoo (愛媛県立とべ動物園) [Ehime Prefecture] ・Nagasaki Bio Park (長崎バイオパーク) [Nagasaki Prefecture] ・Aso Farm Land (阿蘇ファームランド) [Kumamoto Prefecture] ・Hirakawa Zoo (平川動物公園) [Kagoshima Prefecture] Summary of the Capybara Hot Springs Video The video introduced in this article shows capybaras enjoying a nice soak in the hot springs of the Saitama Children's Zoo. Definitely take a second to relax by watching this video of capybaras relaxing in the hot springs. 【Tripadvisor】Saitama Children's Zoo https://www.tripadvisor.com/Attraction_Review-g1021372-d1425140-Reviews-Saitama_Children_Zoo-Higashimatsuyama_Saitama_Prefecture_Kanto.html -
Video article 17:09
The Cute Monkeys of Nagano Prefecture's Jigokudani Snow Monkey Park as They Bathe in the Hot Springs Are Nothing Short of Adorable! Watch These Cute Macaques Fend off the Cold in This Video!
Living Things Travel- 462 plays
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Jigokudani Snow Monkey Park! This video, titled "SNOW MONKEY JAPAN|Jigokudani Snow Monkey Park|Monkeys in Hot Springs," introduces the tourist spot in Nagano prefecture (長野県, Nagano ken) in Koushinetsu region (甲信越地方, Koushinetsu chihou ) of Japan. The monkeys at Jigokudani Snow Monkey Park bathe in the hot springs to fend off the cold in the winter. Enjoy watching the lovely monkeys chilling out in the cold winter weather! What is Jigokudani Snow Monkey Park? Source :YouTube screenshot Jigokudani Snow Monkey Park is a popular destination for both domestic and foreign travelers. It's called "Snow Monkey Mountain" in English. The park can be enjoyed in every season, and in the fall, the leaves change to beautiful shades of red and yellow, creating a completely different atmosphere than that of the snowscapes of winter. The video shows how to get to Jigokudani Snow Monkey Park by taking the Nagano Electric Railway's Snow Monkey Limited Express (長野電鉄特急スノーモンキー, Nagano Dentetsu Tokkyu Snow Monkey) connecting Nagano station and Yudanaka station, at 0:27 in the video. It takes about 15 minutes to get to the Kanbayashi hot spring (上林温泉, Kanbayashi Onsen) parking area by bus, and about 30 minutes to get to Jigokudani Snow Monkey Park by foot. We recommend stopping at Yokoyugawa Valley (横湯川渓谷, Yokoyugawa Keikoku) on the way. You need to buy a ticket to enter when you arrive at Jigokudani Snow Monkey Park. This is shown at 3:36 in the video. Source :YouTube screenshot At Jigokudani Snow Monkey Park, you can enjoy watching a bunch of monkeys playing around. When they get cold, they hop in the hot springs for a bit to warm up. Unfortunately, if it's hot out, the monkeys won't be getting in the hot springs too frequently. That being said, we recommend visiting on colder days so you can see the adorable sight of them bathing. There are live cameras you can check out before visiting to see what the weather is like as well. Monkeys Bathing at Jigokudani Snow Monkey Park Photo:Snow monkey You can watch monkeys taking a bath in the video at 4:38. A troop of monkeys bathe in the springs, surrounded by white snow. The monkeys enjoy their bath time much like people, and you can even see a mother and her child taking a bath together at 5:06. One monkey can be seen relaxing with its eyes closed at 6:30 in the video. Although there are many tourists around, the monkeys pay no mind and go on enjoying themselves. Sightseeing Around Jigokudani Snow Monkey Park The bus tour, which goes around Jigokudani Snow Monkey Park, is great for people who enjoy lively sightseeing trips. We also recommend stopping by Jigokudani Hot Spring Inn (地獄谷温泉後楽館, Jigokudani Onsen Korakukan) and Jigokudani Fountain (地獄谷噴泉, Jigokudani Funsen) as well. Shiga Plateau (志賀高原, Shiga Kougen) is another popular tourist spot in Nagano prefecture. There are cafés where you can eat lunch, cool hotels, and an art museum that you can enjoy here. Summary of Jigokudani Snow Monkey Park Photo:Jigokudani Snow Monkey Park Entrance Unfortunately the only way to get to Jidokudani Snow Monkey Park is to walk the promenade from the parking area to the park itself. It takes about 30 minutes, so we highly recommend wearing comfortable clothing. There are some rules that you need to follow as not to scare the monkeys, so be sure to check those out as well. There are many places to stay near Jigokudani Snow Monkey Park, so if you're planning on staying over night you'll have no trouble finding a place to stay. Are you ready to see some cute monkeys in person? ◆Jigokudani Snow Monkey Park◆ 【Address】6845 Yamanouchi-machi Shimotakai-gun Nagano Japan 381-0401 【Access】~30 minutes by car from the Shinshu-Nakano Interchange, or ~15 minutes by bus or taxi from Yudanaka Station on the Nagano Electric Railway limited express line. ~30 minutes on foot from the Kanbayashi hot spring parking area 【Hours】Summer 8:30-17:00 Winter 9:00-16:00 【Admission fee】Adults 500 JPY, children 250 JPY (Coupons available) 【Closures】No regular holidays 【Telephone】0269-33-4379 【Stay time】2 hours 【Official Website】Jigokudani Snow Monkey Park http://en.jigokudani-yaenkoen.co.jp/ 【Tripadvisor】Jigokudani Snow Monkey Park https://www.tripadvisor.com/Attraction_Review-g1117904-d324924-Reviews-Jigokudani_Snow_Monkey_Park -
Video article 3:46
A Cute Baby Squirrel Running Around in the Woods in the Early Morning. The Way It Holds Its Food With Both Hands as It Eats Is Simply Adorable!
Living Things- 604 plays
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The Japanese Squirrel This video, titled "A Baby Squirrel in the Forest, Early in the Morning" (子リスの活動、早朝の森の中で), was created by "squirrelstail1." It contains footage of a baby Japanese squirrel in the wild. Squirrels at zoos are especially popular among children. Throughout this video you can see footage of the wild Japanese squirrel. You won't be able to take your eyes off of this adorable critter! Watching the quick and nimble movements of the Japanese squirrel is guaranteed to bring a smile to your face. In this article, we'll introduce the Japanese squirrel, a squirrel native to Japan. Japanese Squirrel Facts Photo:Squirrel The Japanese squirrel is a member of the order Rodentia, family Sciuridae and genus Sciurus (齧歯目リス科リス属, gesshimokurisukarisuzoku), and is more commonly referred to as a rodent (齧歯類, gesshirui). It is called both Nihonrisu (ニホンリス) and Hondorisu (ホンドリス) in Japanese. An adult Japanese squirrel can grow to a height of 16-22 cm with a tail length of 13-17 cm and weight as much as 300g. The underbelly and tip of their tail is white in color and the fur on their body is known to change color depending on the season. Their summer coat is a reddish-brown color whereas their winter coat is more of a grayish-brown color. The Japanese squirrel's call sounds like "kyuukyuu" (キューキュー) in Japanese. You can buy squirrels at pet shops, and other pets, such as chipmunks, can be purchased for around 10,000 yen. They're relatively easy to care for making them a popular small pet. You can buy pellets or seeds to feed your pet squirrel at either a pet shop or home center. Photo:Manchurian walnuts The Japanese squirrel is mostly herbivorous. They like to feed on Manchurian walnuts (オニグルミ, onigurumi) and the seeds and fruits of Japanese larch (カラマツ, karamatsu), Japanese red pine (アカマツ, akamatsu) and Japanese white pine (ゴヨウマツ, goyoumatsu) trees. They are also known to occasionally eat insects and other small animals. They store food in pouches in their cheeks and take it back to their nest where they will then bury and store it underground. From 1:09 and 2:34 in the video, you can see adorable footage of a Japanese squirrel eating food it has found, using both of its tiny hands. Distribution and Habitat of the Japanese Squirrel Source :YouTube screenshot The Japanese squirrel lives in subalpine zones and woodland areas. They are diurnal animals who tend to be very active during the day and rest in the evening. They usually spend most of their time in a set area but may occasionally venture outside of that area to look for food. Japanese squirrels spend most of their time up in the tree tops where they build round nests. From 2:54 in the video, you can see a Japanese squirrel easily climb a tree. Wild Japanese squirrels do not hibernate in winter and have an average life span of 3 to 5 years. Japanese squirrels kept in captivity tend to have a slightly longer life span of around 5 to 7 years. How to Distinguish the Japanese Squirrel From Other Squirrels Photo:Japanese squirrel There are many species of squirrels, such as the Japanese squirrel, Hokkaido squirrel (エゾリス, ezorisu), Taiwanese squirrel (タイワンリス, taiwanrisu), Tamians, and chipmunks (シマリス, shimarisu) and red squirrels (キタリス, kitarisu). They all have their own unique characteristics, but the Japanese squirrel and Taiwanese squirrel are fairly hard to distinguish so we'll describe the differences between the two. The Japanese squirrel has a white border around its eyes which the Taiwanese squirrel doesn't have. In winter, the Japanese squirrel has a tuft of hair at the tip of its ears and a white underbelly; however, the Taiwanese squirrel's underbelly remains the same color as the rest of its body. The Taiwanese squirrel is a non-native species introduced to Japan and are known to be very aggressive in nature. Their increasing numbers, particularly in areas such as Kamakura (鎌倉), are becoming a problem. Summary of the Japanese Squirrel This video shown in this article contains footage of the Japanese squirrel. You won't be able to take your eyes off the cute Japanese squirrel as it plays in the forest early in the morning. If you love animals, be sure to check out the video! -
Video article 1:51
Danger Level Maximum; Wild Boars Coming Right at You! The Powerful Charge of These Beasts Is Not to Be Underestimated!
Living Things- 1.08K plays
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Wild Japanese Boars The video "MI0231 Japanese Boar Adult Beast" (MI0231 ニホンイノシシ 成獣), was created by "Asia Nature Library." It captures footages of a dangerous wild Japanese boar. The large, sturdy body of the Japanese wild boar was filmed from up close, showing off just how strong it is. Feel the power of the wild Japanese boar in the video! Be sure to follow along as you read this article! The Japanese Boar Photo:Japanese boar The Japanese wild boar is a member of the Suidae family and Artiodactyla order. Its scientific name is "sus scrofa," and it's often just called a boar. Its characterized by its ability to lunge and be aggressive. On the other hand, it's timid and acts with caution. Moreover, the boar is known as the "Pig," which is one of the twelve Chinese zodiacs, and young boars are called "piglets." Japanese boars have hard, thick, and coarse fur, the color of which is generally brown or dark brown, but every once in a while white boars are found. The lifespan of the Japanese boar is about 10 years. They also have the ability to jump and they can leap 1 meter high without a run-up. The size of the Japanese boar is 100-170 cm in length, 60-90 cm in shoulder height, with tails 30-40 cm long. They weigh 80-190 kg. At the highest end, a boar that weighed around 220 kg was caught as well. Their lower jaw is equipped with tusks. Normally they are active in the day, but their behavioral pattern changes to that of nocturnal animals when they are in an area with humans. They have a wide range of activity and have been reported to travel up to several kilometers a day, and their keen sense of smell allows them to sniff out crops, and they can even destroy farmland. They also occasionally swim to nearby islands. Historically in Japan, wild boars had been hunted for meat. People used to eat meat from boars, deer, etc., but eaten meat was mostly avoided after the introduction of Buddhism to Japan. Even in the present day, they are caught by the likes of the matagi (traditional winter hunters), and eaten in game meat cuisine, wild boar stew (ぼたん鍋, botan nabe), and more. Types of Boars Photo:Boar Wild boars originally lived mainly in Asia and Europe, but were introduced to the Americas and Australia by human intervention. While boars now inhabit many places around the world, with a wide range of sizes and varying habitats. In northeast China and Alabama in the US, boars that weigh more than 300 kg have been reported. In Japan, there are 2 subspecies, the Japanese boar that inhabits Honshu, Shikoku, and Kyushu, and the Ryukyu boar in Okinawa. The Danger of the Wild Japanese Boar Photo:Boar Wild Japanese boars are timid by nature and rarely attack humans by themselves, but they may be provoked when encountered at close range or if agitated. The Japanese wild boar can run at speeds of up to 45 km/h and, they have incredibly powerful lunges, making them very dangerous if they decide to attack. If you are passing through an area where there have been reports of boars, you can use bells or other sounds to alert people. Wild Japanese wild boars are omnivorous, eating mostly plants, fruits, bamboo shoots, and mushrooms that grow in the forests. You can see a close-up of a wild boar eating at 0:25 in the video. They have been reported to destroy crops and plants, so those who live near a forest are advised to be careful. Summary of the Wild Japanese Boar The video featured in this article gives an up close look at Japan's wild boars. It's an animal you won't find in zoos, so be sure to check it out! If you're a fan of animals, be sure to give it a watch! -
Video article 4:58
Play With Adorable Foxes at Zao Fox Village in Miyagi Prefecture. This Facility, Where Approximately 100 Foxes Run Free, Is Sure to Make for a Memorable Experience!
Living Things Things to Do- 182 plays
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What is Zao Fox Village? This video, titled "Fox Village in Zao Japan! 蔵王きつね村・kitsune mura," was released by "Rachel & Jun." Located in Shiraishi City, Miyagi Prefecture, in Japan's Tohoku region, Zao Fox Village is a zoo/theme park where the artificial breeding of foxes is conducted, and the park is home to around 250 foxes of six different species. With more than 100 foxes free-ranging and a petting area where even children can safely interact with the various foxes, this is a popular new tourist destination in Miyagi Prefecture that attracts many tourists. A Closer Look at The Foxes of Zao Fox Village and Their Varieties Photo:Red fox Foxes are mammals that are widely distributed throughout Eurasia and the Americas. Let's take a look at the six types of foxes that you can interact with at Zao Fox Village in Miyagi Prefecture. ・Red Fox Generally speaking, when people think of foxes, they think of this type of fox. ・Arctic Fox This is a species of fox that lives in cold regions and has a beautiful pure white coat. ・Sakhalin Fox In Japan, Sakhalin foxes can be found in Hokkaido and became famous through the TV drama "Kita no Kuni Kara" (北の国から, From the Northern Country). ・Silver Fox The silver fox is known for its high-quality fur. However, it's a rare species that has been designated an endangered species due to overhunting and is now being protected. Photo:Platinum fox ・Platinum Fox The platinum fox is very similar to the arctic fox, but this one has a bicolored gray and white coat, making it a very cute fox. ・Japanese Red Fox A subspecies of the red fox that lives only in Japan. They are generally slightly smaller than the common red fox. ・Cross Fox It's a very rare fox, and at first glance it looks like a hyena or a raccoon. It is said to be a mutant species of the Ezo red fox. At Zao Fox Village in Miyagi Prefecture, there is also a veterinary hospital, and the premises are regularly disinfected and checked for insect/parasite eggs, so there's no need to worry about parasites (e.g., echinococcus) when playing with or feeding the foxes and kits. In this video, a tourist to Japan visits Zao Fox Village. At 0:38 in the video, you can see the foxes being pet and interacting with visitors. Winter Is the Best Time To Visit Zao Fox Village Photo:Arctic fox When it gets cold, foxes put on their fluffy winter coats. Also, some of the foxes kept in the park are originally from cold climates, so if you want to enjoy Zao Fox Village to the fullest, we recommend visiting during the winter! However, winters in Zao are quite harsh for people, so be sure to wear warm clothes! Overview of the Facilities at Zao Fox Village Photo:A goat at Zao Fox Village, Miyagi Prefecture The following facilities can be found at Zao Fox Village: ・A fox petting area ・A domestic animal petting area There are also rabbits, goats, ponies and other animals grazing in the park. ・A fox breeding area Be sure to follow precautions as the parent foxes that have just given birth can be quite skittish. ・A dining area ・A store: Souvenirs from Zao Fox Village can be purchased here. ・The Play-hub rest area: Here you can take a break while watching the natural scenery and the foxes at play. ・Inari Shrine: If there's one thing to remember about foxes in Japan it's their relation to Inari shrines. ・The woods More than 100 foxes live peacefully in a natural wooded environment. ・Parking lot: Parking available for ~100 cars. Summary of Zao Fox Village in Miyagi Prefecture Photo:A fox at Zao Fox Village, Miyagi Prefecture It’s said that foxes live everywhere in Japan, but wild foxes are very wary and rarely seen in daily life. However, if you visit Zao Fox Village, shown in the video, you'll have the chance to see six different species of foxes up close. The closest station to Zao Fox Village is JR Shiroishi Station. It takes about 21 minutes to reach Zao Fox Village by cab from the station. JR East also operates the regular sightseeing bus, "Miyagi Zao Fox Village." 【Official Website】Zao Fox Village http://zao-fox-village.com/en 【Tripadvisor】Miyagi Zao Fox Village https://www.tripadvisor.com/Attraction_Review-g1023408-d7388189-Reviews-Miyagi_Zao_Fox_Village-Shiroishi_Miyagi_Prefecture_Tohoku.html -
Video article 2:33
Admire the Red-Crowned Crane, a Protected Species in Japan, as It Elegantly Dances Atop the Powdery White Snow! Its Mysterious Dance Is a Truly Breathtaking Sight!
Living Things- 305 plays
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Beautiful Japanese scenery! The Dance of the Red-crowned Crane! The mysterious and beautiful dance of the red-crowned crane is popular both inside and outside of Japan. In this video, titled "タンチョウの舞い Japanese Crane Dance ( Shot on RED EPIC High-speed )," we would like to introduce to you the courtship dance of the red-crowned crane. The red-crowned crane is a member of the Cruiformes order, Gruidae family of birds, and is known as a migratory bird; however, there are some non-migratory red-crowned cranes in Japan that can be found in the east of Hokkaido all year round. The elegant looks and majestic appearance of the red-crowned crane as it spreads its wings, make it a very popular bird. A fully-grown adult's wing span can reach over 2 meters, and they are the largest wild bird in Japan). The crane is probably the most well-known example of origami and the crane can also be seen in many other Japanese designs. The most famous of which are the 1000 yen note and the Japan Airlines logo. The red-crowned crane's dance can often be seen in winter as this is the start of the mating season. From 00:36 in the video, you can see a pair of red-crowned cranes dance while matching their calls. It’s a beautiful and magical sight. They way in which they spread their wings and jump around each other is very mysterious. Please enjoy the rare and precious footage. Where Are the Largest Breeding Grounds in Japan? Photo:Red-crowned crane courtship dance The ecology of the red-crowned crane is still shrouded in mystery. However, it is known that there are red-crowned cranes inhabiting both the north-eastern area of Eurasia and also the Kushiro wetlands (釧路湿原, kushiroshitsugen) of Hokkaido. They are omnivorous, feeding on mainly insects, fish, and seaweed found in freshwater. Due to these feeding preferences, they can often be found inhabiting wetland marshes, lakes and rivers. When winter comes around, mating couples are formed and families gather to pass the winter together. The majority of red-crowned cranes choose to spend the winter in China or the Korean Peninsula although it has been confirmed by the Wild Bird Society of Japan and the Ministry of the Environment that some do remain in Japan for the winter. The nonmigratory red-crowned cranes endemic to Japan are known to have a different sounding call to the introduced species. Until they were rediscovered in the Kushiro wetlands in 1924, it was thought that this endemic species had become extinct. In 1967, the red-crowned crane was designated a protected species in Japan and to this day the dance of the red-crowned crane remains the highlight of winter sightseeing in Hokkaido. Red-crowned Crane Facts Photo:Parent and child cranes The average height of the red-crowned crane is 102-147 cm and they can weigh anywhere from 4 kg to over 10 kg. They are covered in white feathers, with black feathers covering the area surrounding the eyes down to their neck and also the tips of their wings. The top of their head has no feathers and instead exposes a bright red patch of skin which is their distinguishing feature. During the breeding season their territory can cover an area of 1-7 square kilometers. They build nests mostly in marshy grasslands, by the waterside or shallows in order to lay their eggs and bring up their offspring there. The Japanese name for the red-crowned crane, "Tanchouzuru," comes from the word "Tan" which means red and refers to the red patch of exposed skin on the top of their head. According to Japanese literature, they were mentioned as far back as 1133 in the "Shijoshuu" and often appear in Japanese fairytales and folklore. Although the red-crowned crane has inhabited Japan for hundreds of years, there is still little information on things such as their average lifespan, the difference in appearance between males and females, and why the cranes that inhabit Japan are nonmigratory. Summary of the Red-crowned Crane Photo:Red-crowned crane・Courtship dance Currently, local governments in Hokkaido are fighting to protect the red-crowned crane with activities such as actively feed them during harsh times, such as in the middle of winter. Thanks to their efforts, the numbers of red-crowned cranes in Japan is steadily increasing. It's said that the Japanese species of red-crowned crane can be distinguished from the Siberian species that was introduced to Japan by differences in the sound of their calls. You can enjoy listening to their beautiful call and seeing their dance from 00:36 in the video. -
Video article 3:14
The Elegant White-Tailed Eagles of Hokkaido’s "Wild Bird Paradise." Take a Look at the Ecology and Traits of the Majestic Eagle as It Aims for Its Prey!
Living Things- 193 plays
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The White-Tailed Eagle of Hokkaido! The video "White-tailed eagle Akan Japanese Crane Center" introduced in this article, shows some white-tailed eagles living around Akan Lake (阿寒湖, Akan ko) in Kushiro, Hokkaido. The white-tailed eagle circling leisurely in the sky with its glistening white tail feathers outstretched is truly a majestic sight. Let's take a closer look at the white-tailed eagle, which, along with the Steller's sea eagle, is known as one of the largest eagles in the world, and learn more about its biology. The video also shows white-tailed eagles catching fish at the Akan International Crane Center. The White-Tailed Eagle Photo:A white tailed eagle from the side The white-tailed eagle is a member of accipitriformes order, accipitridae family, and Haliaeetus genus, and can be found in the northeastern part of Hokkaido, Japan. It is a protected species and is currently listed as a rare wildlife species in Japan, and is listed as an endangered species on the Red List of the Ministry of the Environment. White-tailed eagles are 70 to 98 centimeters in length, with a wing span of 180 to 240 centimeters, and weigh 3 to 7 kilograms. They have white plumage and a slightly muffled call. Young birds are covered entirely with brown feathers and have white spots, but the spots disappear with age. They are carnivorous and have an average lifespan of about 20 years. More About the White-Tailed Eagle Photo:White-tailed eagle There are approximately 1,700 white-tailed eagles wintering in Hokkaido. As shown in the video, white-tailed eagles can be seen living not only in the Akan area, but also in Sapporo City. In rare cases, they also fly from northern Honshu to the Chubu and Kyushu regions. The Akan International Crane Center Gloss, introduced in the video, is a facility that provides information on a variety of wild birds, including the Japanese crane, which is shown at 0:44 in the video, and we definitely recommend giving it a visit. It's also well known among aviation fans that the JASDF's Phantom aircraft had a white-tailed eagle pattern painted on its vertical stabilizer. In the video, the white-tailed eagle is seen flying in a circle over the heads of the Japanese cranes, but it's actually aiming at its prey, and at 2:00 in the video, it finally goes after it. This is the highlight of the video, so be sure to check it out! Another white-tailed eagle appears with the white-tailed eagle that the camera had been following, and in a moment, grabs the catch of the first one with its feet and flies away. This can be seen in slow-mo at 2:25 in the video. Summary of Hokkaido's White-Tailed Eagle Photo:A Steller's sea eagle and a white-tailed eagle In this article, we introduced a fascinating bird you can find in Hokkaido, the white-tailed eagle. If you want to see the beautiful white-tailed eagles shown in this video, why not plan a bird-watching trip to Hokkaido? If your trip to Hokkaido is for white-tailed eagles, you can also purchase white-tailed eagle caramel cookies made by Nemuro cafe as a souvenir. ◆Akan International Crane Center General Information◆ 【Address】40 Akancho Kamiakan, Kushiro, Hokkaido 085-0245 【Access】25 minutes by bus from Kushiro Airport 【Admission fee】Adults (high school students and older) 480 yen, elementary and junior high school students 250 yen (*as of December 2019) 【Hours] 】9:00~17:00 【Closures】None 【Parking】Available 【Telephone】0154-66-4011 【Official Website】Akan International Crane Center-Wix.com https://aiccgrus.wixsite.com/aiccgrus/english-page -
Video article 3:16
The Yamane (Japanese Dormouse) – A Look at One of Japan's Cutest Protected Species Running Around and Playing!
Living Things- 4.75K plays
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The Japanese Dormouse This video, titled "Chino Legacy - A Chino Legacy to Leave to the Future - #16 'Japanese Dormouse'" (茅野レガシー~未来に残したい茅野遺産~#16「ヤマネ」), introduces the cute Japanese dormouse, an endemic species of Japan designated a nationally protected species. The Japanese dormouse is a rodent found in Yatsugatake, which straddle Yamanashi and Nagano prefectures, as well as in low mountains and subalpine areas throughout Japan. During hibernation, the Japanese dormouse crawls into private warehouses and cottages to curl up and take shelter. so there is a possibility of encountering them unexpectedly. About the Japanese Dormouse Source :YouTube screenshot The Japanese dormouse is a small mammal that belongs to the order Rodentia along with squirrels and other rodents, and is of the family Gliridae, and Glirinae genus. As you can see from 0:10 in the video, it has a cute appearance with its round eyes and soft fur. Because it's designated as a nationally protected species, it is forbidden to catch them or keep them as pets. They are 6 to 8 centimeters long, with black vertical stripes along their backs and a bushy tail. They are omnivorous, feeding on insects and fruits. They are often found running around the forest in preparation for winter. As you can see from 1:19 in the video, they nest in tree trunks and cracks in rocks and can race up trees using their sharp claws. It is a very agile animal that can hang on thin branches and jump from branch to branch. They are nocturnal creatures that live in trees, so you won’t encounter them often; however, during winter, you may see them curled up on the ground hibernating. They are also called "Ball Mice" or "Ice Mice" based on their curled up appearance. A hibernating Japanese dormouse sleeps so peacefully that even if you rolled them around, they would not wake up. You can see a curled-up Japanese dormouse hibernating at 2:07 in the video. In spring, they return to their natural habitat in the mountains. The Japanese Dormouse - A "Living Fossil" Photo:Excavating fossils Fossils of Japanese dormice have been excavated from the strata of Europe and Japan from 50 million and 20 million years ago, respectively. In other words, it is believed that the Japanese dormouse has existed on Earth since about 50 million years ago, after the extinction of the dinosaurs. This would have been during the Cenozoic Era, a time when ammonites and marine reptiles became extinct, and mammals and birds prospered. This of course means that they existed long before humans came to be. Because the Japanese dormouse has not changed in ecology or form since these ancient times, it is referred to as a living fossil. After the advent of mankind, the Japanese dormouse was recorded as a delicacy eaten by noblemen in Roman times. They would put Japanese dormice in vases and fatten them up with nuts and then cook them. They were eaten on a daily basis as appetizers or desserts. The Japanese Dormouse as a Pet Photo:Japanese Dormouse Due to the Japanese dormouse being designated as a nationally protected species, it is not allowed to have them as pets in Japan. However, you will see types of dormice from Europe or Asia in pet shops. When keeping them as pets, having a nesting box, drinking water, bedding materials, and a running wheel should suffice. When they begin hibernation, they sleep for half of the year, earning them the name "Sleeping Mice"; be sure to arrange their living quarters so you can see them sleeping! When they wake up from hibernation, it's mating season and they attract females with high-pitched calls. If you keep them as a pair, be aware that breeding occurs during this period. Summary of the Living Fossil - The Japanese Dormouse Source :YouTube screenshot Did you enjoy learning about the cute Japanese dormouse? We hope you were able to learn more about the biology of the Japanese dormouse, a once semi-endangered species and protected species in Japan. If you haven't yet, be sure to check out the video to see footage of this cute critter! -
Video article 3:01
The Northern Pika of Japan: Learn About the Cute Critter Known as the "God of Rocky Lands" and Found in the Outdoors of Hokkaido. Also See Its Characteristic High-Pitched Cry!
Living Things- 2.62K plays
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An Introduction to Northern Pika! This is a video on the ecology of Northern Pika, an endangered species in Hokkaido. The video, titled "Keep it up! Northern Pika - He can do his best. Pika" (頑張れ!エゾナキウサギ He can do his best. Pika), was released by "Shinji Kawamura." The Northern Pika, is a small mammal of the ochotonidae family, and its identifying characteristic is its high pitched cry. In Japan, they only live in high lands like Mt. Daisetsu, Mt. Yubari, and Mt. Hidaka in Hokkaido. Their distinct high pitched cry can be seen in the video from 1:09. The Northern Pika is said to have arrived in Japan from the Siberian continent during the ice age. In this video, you can see the lives of cute, wild Northern Pika. Please enjoy the video showing the ecology of Northern Pika. What is the Northern Pika? Photo:Northern Pika The Northern Pika is also called the "God of Rocky Lands" due to its habit of running around the rocky land of their natural habitat. Hokkaido’s aboriginal Ainu people used to call the Northern Pika "Cicit Cu Kamuy" (チチッ・チュ・カムイ, roughly "The Cheeping God") in Ainu language. The mouse-like Northern Pika is very small, weighing only about 60-150 grams, with a length of 10-20 cm, and a lifespan of about 4-5 years, which is shorter than most pika. They are full of curiosity but very timid, so they are very rarely seen in public. Their natural habitat is the cold wind caves of the Daisetsuzan mountains located high above sea level that don't freeze during the winter. In Japan, these critters are also known to only inhabit Hokkaido. Their breeding period is once a year from spring to summer, and they give birth to 1 to 5 kittens at a time. How Northern Pika Survive Winter The Northern Pika is entirely vegetarian, feeding on every plant in the mountains and is sometimes called "the pacifist of the mountains." In the video from 0:42, there is a scene of an Northern Pika with leaves in its mouth. Northern Pika do not hibernate so they must make winter preparations before the snow piles up. This involves stocking their houses with food. They have the intelligence to dry plants such as leaves, turning it into a dry-grass-preserved food which allows them to survive up to 6 months of harsh winter. They store about a bucketful of food in each of the several locations in their territory. You can see this in the video from 1:49. Where Can I See Northern Pika? Photo:Beautiful Autumn Leaves at Daisetsuzan Northern Pika live in only limited parts of Hokkaido, so the possibility of encountering them is very low. If you do mountain climbing or participate in nature tours and go to photo points, you may have a chance to see them. Northern Pika only live in the wild, and it is said that they cannot be raised in zoos and laboratories. It is also impossible to keep them as pets. If you are attracted to the cute Northern Pika, we recommend that you buy a plush toy or photo book as a souvenir of your trip to Hokkaido. Summary of the Northern Pika In the introductory video, you can see scenes of Northern Pika running around busily searching for food. There's something soothing about looking at this little critter squeaking about. These animals are hard to find in the wild, so be sure to take the time to check out the videos and enjoy their cuteness! -
Video article 1:30
The Oniyanma: Amazing Footage of Japan's Largest Dragonfly! See It Molting and Laying Eggs in Nature...
Living Things- 1.66K plays
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The Oniyanma - Japan's Largest Dragonfly! This video, titled "Oniyanma (The Largest in Japan)" (オニヤンマ(日本最大)), introduces the oniyanma, a large dragonfly belonging to the Cordulegastridae family and Odonata order. The massive dragonfly has an abdominal length of 7 cm for males and 8 cm for female. Those that inhabit Hokkaido (北海道, Hokkaido), Yakushima Island (屋久島, Yakushima), etc., have a tendency to be smaller. Their eyes are a bright emerald green color, but change color when they are made into specimens. Their body is black with a yellow pattern and fine horizontal stripe at each section. They are compared with sieboldius albardae (ko-oniyanma), but these belong to the Gomphidae family, and are different from oniyanma in that their compound eyes are placed separately on both sides of their head, and their larvae are flat and disk-shaped and live on stones at the bottoms of rivers. Oniyanma - Distribution and Habits Photo:Oniyanma Oniyanma are widely distributed throughout Japan, mainly around streams, riverbanks, outskirts of forests and mountainous areas, but they can also be seen on the plains and in urban areas when it is cooler. International visitors may be surprised to find them in urban areas because of their very large area of activity. When you find a female oniyanma, you can catch it by taking advantage of its habit of stopping its movement and hovering. Male Oniyanma consider anything that flaps its wings to be female, so if you hold a fan or other wind-producing object in front of the male, it will stop moving. If you're a bug collector, you can use this as a reference when collecting! The Life Cycle of Oniyanma Photo:Oniyama Patrol Oniyanma are carnivorous, feeding on moths, flies, and other small flying insects. Their natural predators are birds, bats, etc. They can bite humans as well, so be careful. Male oniyanma mate with females they meet while patrolling their territory. After mating, the female will go to a clean river or puddle to lay her eggs. Upon finding a suitable location, oniyanma perform a unique spawning display in which they will drop to the surface of the water while standing up and flying. You can see a female oniyanma laying eggs at 0:30 in the video. They spawn by thrusting their ovipositor into the mud in the water. Photo:An oniyama hatching Eggs hatch about 1 month after being laid, and the larvae are called nymphs. Nymphs are a translucent white with no wings and a short abdomen. They burrow into the mud to lie in wait for food to pass. When they are young, they feed on water fleas, mosquito larvae, etc., but as they grow older they begin feeding on tadpoles, small fish, etc. In addition, they feed on each other as well as nymphs of other species and, as a result, only the strong survive. It takes five years for them to become adults, and they molt about ten times before reaching this stage. Eventually, compound eyes pop out and the mouth part of the molt becomes a unique face as if they were wearing masks. Eventually, scaly wings form on their backs, and on a sunny summer day, they climb up from the bottom of the water to a stone or pile on the surface of the water and their backs split open and they emerge as adults. Immediately after hatching, their wings are white and shrunken, but over night, the black and yellow pattern appears and the wings solidify. You can amazing footage of an oniyanma molting at 0:58 in the video. After emerging as adults, they continuously feed for about a month before mating. The total life span of an oniyanma is 5-6 years. Summary of Oniyanma- Japan's Largest Dragonfly Photo:An adult oniyanma emerging Did you enjoy learning about the oniyanma, the largest dragonfly in Japan? Footage of them laying eggs is quite rare, so if you still haven't yet, be sure to check it out! -
Video article 7:40
Ezo Brown Bears Catching Lunch in the Outdoors of Hokkaido! See the 2-Meter-Tall Bears Snatching Fish From a River Right Before Your Eyes!
Living Things- 868 plays
- YouTube
Introducing the Wild Brown Bears of Hokkaido This video, titled “Encountering Wild Brown Bears that are Catching Salmon @ Shiretoko Hokkaido 20131010(野生のヒグマと遭遇 サケを捕食@北海道 知床 20131010)” films two wild brown bears catching salmon that were swimming in the river. A brown bear is terrestrial mammal of the Ursidae family and their size is about the same as polar bears. Sub-species of foreign brown bears include Kodiak bears, Grizzly bears and Himalayan bears. The main sub-spices of brown bears which inhabit Hokkaido are called Ezo brown bears. This video is of wild Ezo brown bears catching salmon at the river, and it is a very rare sight. We hope you enjoy their fishing skills! What Kind of Animal Is the Ezo Brown Bear? Photo:Ezo brown bear One of the most well-known bears in Japan is the Asian black bear. These black bears actually inhabit the main island of japan. Ezo brown bears, on the other hand, inhabit forests in Hokkaido where the climate is generally colder. Ussuri brown bears are another bear that is a subspecies of brown bears. The Ussuri brown bear is also known as the Ezo brown bear. The size differs depending on the gender, with male bears being about 1.9 to 2.3 meters tall and weighing 120 kg to 250 kg. Female bears are about 1.6 to 1.8 meters tall, and are actually heavier than than males, weighing between 150 to 160 kg. Some of them are gigantic, weighing in at 450 kg. The Ezo brown bears inhabiting Japan are the largest kind of terrestrial animal in Japan. The number of Ezo brown bears is around 2,244 to 6,476 (as of 2013). The bears are known as omnivorous, and they like to eat fish, meat, and plants as well. The life span of a wild Ezo brown bear is about 30 years. They tend to live longer than different mammals. Highlights of Ezo Brown Bears Source :YouTube screenshot The video shows the viewers two Ezo brown bears hunting salmon at a river. It was filmed in October when the bears were getting ready for hibernation. From 4:21 in the video, we can see bears using both of their paws to catch salmon. At 0:18, one bear carries a salmon to the side of the river. At 4:54, the bears bring salmon ashore and comfortably enjoy their meals in peace. You'll be surprised by what happens at the end. Be sure to watch the full video so you don't miss out! The bears were so focused on their hunting that they didn't show any fear of the people filming them. Its incredibly rare that we see footage of Hokkaido's wild brown bears hunting. Be Aware of Wild Bears When Traveling to Hokkaido! Photo: Beware of Bears In Hokkaido, A study has been conducted to work on how to handle wild Ezo brown bears and ways of coexisting with them. There are several cases of humans being attacked by wild bears in Hokkaido. If you visit Hokkaido, please be aware that there are wild bears and research the areas in advance. Before your travels, please make sure that there are no wild bear alerts in the area you are traveling to. In order to keep bears away, have bells or turn on a radio to show them that humans are around. If you do encounter a wild bear, just think that bears are also afraid of humans. Screaming makes the bear scared, and it will enter into a defensive mode, and might try to attack you. Avoid running away from bears because bears tend to chase what’s running away from them. They can run up to 60km/h so the chance that they will catch you is extremely high . Instead of running away or screaming, try standing up on top of a rock or a log to make you look bigger and be intimidating. The most effective way to keep the bears away is to use a bear spray. Some people think bears are cute animals, and while this may be true, they are also dangerous as well. Please keep this in mind. Summary of Hokkaido's Wild Brown Bears If you are interested in learning more about brown bears, please visit a zoo, such as the Noboribetsu bear park, or the Showa Shinzan bear ranch. “Higuma Doughnuts” is a cafe in Meguro, Tokyo which uses selected ingredients from Hokkaido where brown bears live. If you visit Hokkaido, please visit a gift store to purchase some Hokkaido souvenirs. Be sure to check out the Ezo brown bears, the video is too adorable to miss!