Preventing crop damage caused by the Amami rabbit
Animal Behaviour and Management（Faculty of Agriculture Department of Agriculture Bioresource and Environmental Synergic Science
Program）
Takayama Koji
- tokunoshima
Background and objectives of activities
The Amami rabbit is an endemic species that lives on Amami Oshima and Tokunoshima islands, and is a symbol of the two islands, which have been registered as World Natural Heritage sites. However, in recent years, damage to agricultural crops by these rabbits has become a problem in various parts of the islands. In order to prevent damage to agricultural crops by Amami rabbits, we have installed electric fences and wire fences around farmland, and are currently verifying their effectiveness.
Summary of Activities
The Amami rabbit is a special natural monument of Japan. The important point is to protect the crops without harming them. First, we studied the behavior of the Amami rabbit and examined the structure and installation method of fences that are effective in preventing them from entering. Based on the results, we installed electric fences and wire fences in the tankan orchard and are currently verifying their effectiveness in preventing them from entering.
Expected Benefits
Electric fences and wire fences are not designed to keep them out. By installing fences, we can separate the living areas of humans and Amami rabbit, in other words, we can achieve 'habitat partitioning', making it possible for both species to coexist on the island.