The Japanese crane, known for its slender, elegant figure, is a member of the crane family. It its considered to be most beautiful when it spreads open its long wings. In Japan, the Japanese crane, inhabits the eastern regions of the northern island of Hokkaido. After a drastic decrease in its numbers after World War II, various preservation efforts have led to a recovery of the Japanese crane population in recent years. The Japanese crane has been given an endangered species rating of 2 (Vulnerable) in the Red Data Book, a Japanese version of the IUCN's Red List of Threatened Animals.

The Japanese River Otter, a member of the weasel family, reaches approximately 70 centimeters (28 inches) in length. The creature once widely inhabited midstream and downstream regions along rivers throughout Japan. However, its number has drastically diminished due to excessive pelt hunting. The last official sighting of the Japanese River Otter was in the southern part of Kochi Prefecture in 1979, and since that time, no sighting of the otter has ever been confirmed. An official search to ensure its survival has recently gone under way. The Japanese River Otter is currently classified as a ,Critically Endangered, species in the Red Data Book. The species was eventually considered to be the real source of the Japanese mythological figure, "Kappa". Sightings of Witness of Japanese River Otter have not been recorded since 1979. However, research to verify of its existence is still being continued today.

The Snow Monkey of Shimokita Peninsula inhabits the northernmost region of Japan's main island, which is the world's coldest spot inhabited by primates (excluding humans). The species has a short tail despite the fact that it belongs to the "old-world" monkey family, which is characterized by a long tail. The Snow Monkey of Shimokita Peninsula is currently classified in the Red Data Book as a "Threatened Local Population" species.

The sea turtle, a symbol of long life and good luck, has been loved for centuries. The Loggerhead Turtle, belonging to the sea turtle family, makes its home in the seas of tropical and temperate regions. However, the number of Loggerhead Turtles has been decreasing due to waste disposal problems, land reclamation projects, and contamination of the oceans. The Loggerhead Turtle is currently classified as a "Vulnerable" species in the Red Data Book.

The Japanese Golden Eagle, a member of the eagle family, reaches 80 to 90 centimeters (32 to 36 inches) in length, and is characterized by its large, black wings and distinct golden wash over the back of the head. The majestic raptor, a most dominating figure in the bird kingdom, makes its home in mountainous regions in Japan. However, its number in the wild has diminished due to human environmental development projects. The Japanese Golden Eagle is currently classified in the Red Data Book as an "Endangered" species. Assembly instructions for paper sculptures of the Japanese Golden Eagle, as well as photo images of completed sculptures, may be downloaded at this web site.

 Ueno Zoo, the oldest zoo in Japan

Home                                                  Next