Amami Rabbit

アマミノクロウサギ · Amaminokurousagi

Designated by: National / Special Natural Monument
Designation type: Species
Designated on: March 3, 1921
Prefectures: Kagoshima
Scientific name: Pentalagus furnessi

Designation facts (name, date, location) are compiled from public records by Japanese authorities.

About the Amami Rabbit

A dark brown rabbit living only on Amami-Oshima and Tokunoshima, with short ears and legs. It is nocturnal and digs burrows in the forest. Known as a living fossil that retains primitive traits, it is a Special Natural Monument. Mongooses once posed a major threat on Amami-Oshima, but their eradication was declared in September 2024. Conservation efforts continue to address predation by cats and dogs, habitat loss and fragmentation, and road accidents.

Natural Monuments related to the Amami Rabbit →

Map

Designated as a species without a fixed area. Markers show related prefectures.

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Frequently asked questions

Yes. Amami Rabbit is a National Special Natural Monument, designated as: Species. Designated on March 3, 1921.

The Amami Rabbit is designated as a species without a fixed area and lives in places such as Kagoshima.

When observing, follow local rules, keep your distance and never feed the animals. Capturing or harming Natural Monuments is prohibited under Japan's Act on Protection of Cultural Properties.

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