The Iriomote wildcat's ecology and characteristics are thoroughly explained by a local guide! What are the chances of seeing them?
Table of Contents
- 1 If you go to Iriomote Island, you want to see them! Thorough explanation about Iriomote wildcat
- 2 Iriomote wildcat basic information
- 3 Characteristics of the Iriomote wildcat
- 4 Encounter rate with Iriomote wildcat
- 5 A local guide's firsthand account of increasing encounter rates!
Iriomote wildcat real tips
- 5.1 Iriomotejima Nature Guide A After dusk" is the most exciting time of the day.
- 5.2 Iriomotejima Island Night Tour Guide B Places with many signs are "actually hot" encounter spots
- 5.3 Iriomotejima Safari Guide C The quieter the car runs, the harder it is for the wild cat to escape.
- 5.4 Iriomotejima Eco Guide D Chances go up at night after the rain
- 6 Iriomote wildcat habitat
- 7 Do you sometimes encounter them while driving?
- 8 For those who want to know about Iriomote wild cat Let's go to Iriomote Island Wildlife Conservation Center!
- 9 Even on a night safari tour in Iriomote Island Can you meet Iriomote wildcat?
- 10 Iriomote wildcat FAQ
- 11 summary
- 12 Ferry boarding is required to Iriomote Island! Let's buy a ferry ticket in advance!
I would like to meet him when I go to Iriomote Island!
Thorough description of the Iriomote wildcat
Many people may first think of the Iriomote wildcat when they hear the name "Iriomote Island.
Iriomote Island is home to many wild creatures, and the subtropical wilderness remains strong.
◆World Heritage Iriomote Island's wildlife to observe.
◆To learn more about the Iriomote wildcat
◆Those who want to learn with their families and children.
◆ those who want to take pictures of rare animals and natural scenery.
This time, we will introduce you to a new species that lives only in Iriomote Island.Iriomote wildcat (Prionailurus bengalensis iriomotensis)Learn more about the
Iriomote wildcat basic information
The Iriomote wildcat is a subspecies of the cat family that belongs to the Bengal wildcat genus. Its appearance is slightly similar to the Bengal cat, which has a distinctive leopard print pattern and is often seen in urban areas.Unique appearance different from stray catsWe have a
It is said that about 240,000 years ago, the ancestors of the Iriomote wildcat migrated from the continent to the Ryukyu Islands and settled in present-day Iriomote Island.
It was first discovered in 1965 in Funauki village in the southwestern part of Iriomote Island. Now it is decreasing year by year.endangered speciesThe name is designated in the
◆English name: Iriomote Cat
◆Dialect name: Yamapicariya, Yamamaya
◆Habitat：Only found on Iriomote Island, Okinawa
Estimated population: approx. 100 (as of 2008), declining trend
◆Head and body length: approx. 50-60 cm
◆Weight 3-5 kg
Endemic only to Iriomote Island
Iriomote wildcat (Prionailurus bengalensis iriomotensis)Designated as a national natural monumentThe following is a list of the most common problems with the "C" in the "C" column.
It was first discovered in 1965 as a result of a survey,Endemic species of Iriomote IslandIt turned out to be the case.
◆1977: Designated as a national special natural monument
1994: Designated as a domestic rare wild animal and plant species.
◆2007: From Endangered IB to IA
What foods does the Iriomote wildcat prefer?
The Iriomote wildcat has a diverse diet and is very adaptable, finding food in many different environments on the island.
In terms of preferred foods, they are omnivorous, feeding on a wide variety of creatures, including insects, reptiles, and even mammals.
I have an image of cats not liking water,The Iriomote wildcat is not afraid of water.They are said to catch fish by jumping or diving into rivers.
Nocturnal endangered species!
Why and why the Iriomote wildcat is endangered.
Iriomote wildcat (Prionailurus bengalensis iriomotensis)nocturnal habitIt is often seen at night because of theCurrently only about 100 animals inhabit the area.It is said.
Many of the causes of the Iriomote wildcat's decline aretraffic accidentIt is said that. Iriomote Island used to be an island with little traffic, but in recent years the number of people moving to Iriomote Island has been increasing.
It is now listed as an endangered species, and conservation efforts are underway, including the installation of animal tunnels and the erection of Iriomote wildcat signs.
Iriomote Island is a protected natural environment where more than 901 tp3t of the island is undeveloped, so much so that it is registered as a World Natural Heritage site.
On the other hand, it is becoming a tourist destination. It may be that the environment is gradually becoming unsuitable as a habitat.
◆Traffic Accident
In recent years, more and more people have moved to Iriomote Island, and more and more cars come and go. Especially at night, there are no street lights and it is dark, so there are frequent accidents involving bobcats that run out onto the road.
◆ Invasive Alien Species (Invasive Alien Species)
It is believed that the Iriomote wildcat is not preyed upon by non-native species, but rather that it often loses its life by preying on non-native species. In particular, there have been reports of cases where the Iriomote wildcat has accidentally eaten non-native lynx and poisonous animals, resulting in death by poisoning.
◆FIV
FIV (Feline Immunodeficiency Virus Infection), commonly known as FIV, is also a problem in domesticated cats.Deaths due to cat AIDSis also a concern for the Iriomote wildcat. The spread of the disease is one of the major challenges in conservation efforts, especially for the Iriomote wildcat, a rare species whose survival is seriously affected by the spread of the disease.
The "number" of Iriomote wildcat
The estimated population of the Iriomote wildcat was about 100 as of 2008. Environmental surveys have continued since then, but the population size is not clearly known.
Because they are nocturnal and live in rugged mountainous areas and dense forests, it is very difficult to measure exact numbers, and estimates are only used as a reference.
Also, due to traffic accidents and habitat changes,Populations are on the decline.and ongoing conservation efforts are essential.
Characteristics of the Iriomote wildcat
Unlike domestic cats (Ae. aegypti), the Iriomote wildcat has evolved uniquely on Iriomote Island and has distinctive ear shapes and body patterns. Let us introduce them in order!
(1) Ear shape
If you see an animal that looks like a bobcat, check the shape of its ears!
The ears of the Aedes aegypti are pointed, whereas the bobcat's areround shapeThe bobcat has a Also, behind the bobcat's ears is a tiger-ear-shaped patch called theWhite spotsThere are
(2) The pattern of the eyes
Around the eyesWhite border patternCheck to see if there is a Every bobcat has a white fringed pattern.
3) Nose shape
If you have room, take a look at the nose as well. Compared to the Aedes aegypti, the nose iswide width (e.g. cloth)It appears slightly larger in
(4) Body type
Compared to domesticated cats, the body is generally stouter. In additionhaving thick legsIt is stout,having a strong tailIt is.
*There are some differences, such as larger fangs and paw pads, compared to the Aeneko, but it is nearly impossible to check these in the open.
◆ with a white border around the eyes
◆ with vertical stripe pattern on forehead
◆ long torso and short legs
◆About 3-5 kg (50-60 cm)
◆Tail fat
◆Big paw pads and fangs
Relationship between Iriomote wildcat and Aedes aegypti
Iriomote Island, by Taketomi Town to which Iriomote Island belongs, in order to prevent interbreeding between Iriomote wildcat and Aedes aegypti and the spread of infectious diseases.."Taketomi Town Cat Breeding Ordinance"（The following rules for keeping cats have been established under an ordinance called the "Cat Ordinance" (commonly known as the "Cat Ordinance").
- virus check
- vaccination
- Microchipping
- spay-neuter surgery
- Registration for Taketomi Town
Encounter rate with Iriomote wildcat
Can we easily see Iriomote wildcat anywhere when we visit Iriomote Island?
Unfortunately, the answer is.No, sir.". Even if you walk around the forest looking for them, the probability of finding them is close to zero.
However, the star gazing night safari tours published by Iriomotejima Tours are often held at the point where Iriomote wildcat was encountered before! If you are lucky, you might be able to see them... ♪
Click here for stargazing night safari tours subject to ⬇︎
The real voices of local guides that increase the encounter rate!
Iriomote wildcat realistic tips
However, local guides who have guided the nature of Iriomote Island for many years have firsthand knowledge of "what time of day," "what environment," and "what way of running" Iriomote wildcat are most likely to encounter it, based on their daily "live observation experience.
Cultivated in such a field"Real voices."We have compiled a list of tips to increase the encounter rate just a little bit based on the
Iriomotejima Nature Guide A
After dusk" is the most buzzing time of the day.
The bobcats don't start moving until about two hours after sunset."
The grass on the side of the road rustles and there are more signs of small animals."The time of the buzz."That's what we're aiming for."
Iriomotejima Island Night Tour Guide B
Places with many signs are "actually hot" encounter spots.
The areas with many "Beware of Animals" and Iriomote wildcat signs are "real sites" where there have been many reports of their appearance in the past. Local guides also focus on these areas first.
Iriomotejima Safari Guide C
The quieter the car, the harder it is for the bobcat to escape.
Sudden braking or acceleration is very stressful for the bobcat."
"I find that cars driving quietly at a constant low speed (so-called 'bobcat speed') are actually more likely to be encountered there."
Iriomotejima Eco Guide D
"Night after the rain" improves chances.
At night, when the ground is moist after a rain, small animals often move about. Sometimes bobcats follow them and come out close to the road."
Our local guide's firsthand experience is that a quiet night after the rain is a bit more promising."
Iriomote wildcat habitat
The Iriomote wildcat is nocturnal and basicallyin the forestI live in a
They have such capable ears and noses that even if they were lurking nearby, they would be gone before we even knew they were there.
Experts study the traces for months before approaching them by various means to find out where they frequently appear, but it is difficult for the average traveler because they do not have that kind of time and it is very difficult.
If you want to have a chance encounter in the forest, you have no other choice but to pick a spot in the jungle, sit still, and wait.
You should be prepared for the high probability that it will be an exercise in futility, but in the unlikely event that you do see it, it will be a truly valuable experience.
Do you sometimes encounter them while driving?
There is only one road on Iriomote Island.One prefectural road connecting Ohara Port area to the southeast and Uehara Port area to the northwestI only go to the
While driving along this prefectural road, people have seen Iriomote wildcat walking on the road or injured due to a traffic accident.
In areas where the Iriomote wildcat is likely to inhabit to prevent accidents,Various types of signs and billboardsis standing.
The locations where Iriomote wildcat is likely to appear are labeled "B-1" and "C-2," respectively.the particular ID that wasThe following is a list of the items that are granted.
The sign warning people to "beware of animals jumping out" in Iriomote Island is, of course, Iriomote wildcat.
In Iriomote Island, Iriomote wildcatroad kill（The problem (i.e., vehicles hitting and killing Iriomote wildcat) is becoming more serious.
Be especially careful at dawn and around dusk, when the Iriomote wildcat is more active, as it is likely to jump out of nowhere.
Not only the Iriomote wildcat, but also various other creatures walk on the roads in Iriomote Island. Driving speed is 30km/h in the village and 40km/h in the island."Bobcat speed."Drive with a
⬇︎ for more information on car rentals in Iriomote Island.
For those who want to know about Iriomote wildcat
Let's go to Iriomote Island Wildlife Conservation Center!
We have introduced the Iriomote wildcat, and if you want to know more about it, we recommend you to visit the Iriomote Island Wildlife Conservation Center.
It is located about 35 minutes by car from Uehara Port, Iriomote Island.To protect rare speciesThe facility was established in
The center protects not only the Iriomote wildcat, but also a stuffed and injured wild boar.
The Iriomote Wildlife Conservation Center is a museum where endangered species and creatures unique to Iriomote Island are known, so both adults and children can enjoy themselves!
You can enjoy the facility for free, but please be careful when you go sightseeing, as it is open from 10:00 am to 5:00 pm and closed on Mondays.
↓ About Iriomote Wildlife Conservation Center ↓
↓Tour with a stopover at Iriomote Wildlife Conservation Center ↓Tour with a stopover at Iriomote Wildlife Conservation Center
Where the Iriomote wildcat was found
The site where the Iriomote wildcat was discovered and captured is also recommended!
As the place where the Iriomote wildcat was first discovered, a monument has been erected at the eaves of a private house, saying "The place where the Iriomote wildcat was discovered and captured.
Funauki, where the monument is located, has the atmosphere of an Iriomote wildcat just by going there, so if you have time, you may go there.
↓ About the place where Iriomote wildcat was found and captured ↓
Also on a night safari tour of Iriomote Island
Can I meet Iriomote wildcat?
If you want to see the Iriomote wildcat, why not take a night tour?
The chance of encountering an Iriomote wildcat is low, but you may possibly see one.
*In fact, there have been several instances of people accidentally seeing Iriomote wildcat during night tours.
Iriomote Island is not only Iriomote Cat
Observe rare flora and fauna on a night tour!
In the nighttime jungle of Iriomote Island, known as the "Galapagos of the Orient," you can see precious flora and fauna.
For example, the Yaeyama flying fox and the endangeredHigh probability of encountering coconut crabssquare bearing block (at the top of a pillar)The following is a list of the most common problems with the "C" in the "C" column.
↓ Learn more about night tours ↓
↓ Click here for recommended night tours ↓ Click here for recommended night tours
Iriomote Island at night is seasonal.Rhizophora mucronata (species of midge)and "ephemeral phantom flowers" that bloom and fall for only one night.flower petals fallen on water, resembling a spider flower (esp. Pelecanoides urinatrix)You can see creatures that cannot be seen on the mainland, such as the majestic crested serpent eagle and the adorable southern flying goby.
Learn more about our Seasonal Tours ↓ ↓
Seasonal Special Plan ↓ Click here ↓ Click here
I would like to see it if I join the night tour!
Night sky of Japan's first starry sky reserve
The night sky of Iriomote Island is crystal clear, so you will be surprised at the size and quantity of stars you can see.
If you come to Iriomote Island for sightseeing, why don't you look for Iriomote wildcat or explore the jungle at night?
Iriomote wildcat FAQ
Encounter rates are high from after dusk to midnight and before dawn. In particular, "along roads where animals have been reported to appear in the past" and "in areas with many animal warning signs" offer relatively good chances. However, be sure to use low speed and observe safely first.
It is possible! However, actual encounters are rare, so we recommend that you first visit the Iriomote Wildlife Conservation Center to learn about them while viewing models and exhibits. If you participate in the night tour, it is better to choose a plan with a guide for your safety.
The basic rule is to stop or slow down and "keep your distance and watch quietly. If you find an injured animal, do not touch it but contact the Iriomote Wildlife Conservation Center.
summary
Iriomote wildcat is a rare creature that even the staff living in Iriomote Island have never seen, but you may be able to meet it if you know its characteristics!
Also popular are Iriomote wildcat goods, which can only be purchased locally, so be sure to check them out when you visit☆.
When you come to Iriomote Island, please join a night tour and observe the unique creatures of Iriomote Island♪.
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Ferry boarding is required to Iriomote Island.
Buy your ferry tickets in advance!
Iriomote Island is accessible from Ishigaki Port Terminal, the base for Yaeyama tourism.Ferry boarding is required.It is.
If you purchase in advance, there is no need to wait in line at the purchase counter on the day of the cruise, and you can simply show the check-in screen (QR code) received via e-mail at the pier.
Click here to book ferry tickets.
*Please be assured that you can easily change your time or cancel your reservation.
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