Wildlife Roaming Freely in Hokkaido
In the rugged landscapes of Hokkaido, Japan's northernmost island, a diverse array of wildlife thrives. From the silent flight of the Blakiston's fish owl to the graceful strides of the Yezo sika deer, the island is home to a fascinating collection of species.
The Blakiston's fish owl, a national treasure in Japan, is the largest species of owl in the country, boasting a wingspan of nearly two meters. Known for its silent, stealthy approach, it home-ins on its prey without making a sound. This majestic bird feeds on trout and is revered by the indigenous Ainu people as a protective god.
The Yezo sika deer, called yuk in the Ainu language, meaning "prey" or "meat," is a common sight in Hokkaido's forests. The increased availability of grasslands has led to a growth in the deer population in recent years, but this increase has also brought about challenges such as car accidents, trampling, and grazing on farmland.
Brown bears, found north of Blakiston's Line, are a prominent part of Hokkaido's wildlife. These omnivorous creatures have a diet consisting of 90% plants, salmon and trout, ants and other insects, and animals like the Yezo sika deer. Brown bears hibernate over winter and give birth to one or two cubs in their dens during that time.
Hokkaido is also home to a variety of owl species, including the Yezo Ural owl, horned owl, oriental scops owl, snowy owl, eagle-owl, and Blakiston's fish owl. Swans can be found on Lake Kussharo in winter, and the red-crowned crane, a symbol of Hokkaido, can now be seen in places other than eastern Hokkaido.
Preservation efforts have been successful, and as of January 2025, the population of red-crowned cranes has grown to 1,927 individuals. However, the extinction of the Ezo wolf, once roaming Hokkaido's forests and marshes, serves as a stark reminder of the impact human activity can have on wildlife. The Ezo wolves went extinct due to human activity in the late 19th century, around the 1880s to 1890s.
Contact with Hokkaido's animals serves as a reminder of the irreplaceable nature of each species. As we continue to protect and preserve these wonderful creatures, we are not only safeguarding the island's biodiversity but also honouring the rich heritage and culture of the Ainu people.
