Endangered Bird Species within Kushiro
Kushiro and its surroundings are home to many rare and endangered animals. Seven endangered species of birds in the region are protected as Natural Monuments of Japan. Some are resident species living in the area year-round, and some migrate every year.
Resident species
The Japanese crane (Grus japonensis, called tancho in Japanese), the black woodpecker (Dryocopus martius), and Blakiston’s fish owl (Ketupa blakistoni) are native to Kushiro and are resident species, meaning they stay in the region throughout the year. Blakiston’s fish owl is one of the world’s largest species of owl. It uses its keen eyesight and powerful talons to catch fish in rivers and streams. It is found in central and eastern Hokkaido, as well as on Sakhalin and the Kuril Islands to the north of Hokkaido. In Ainu culture, Blakiston’s fish owl is revered as a god and protector of the village.
Valued visitors
The Steller’s sea eagle (Haliaeetus pelagicus) is a migratory species that arrives from eastern Russia during the winter. They can be seen on the coast as they hunt for Pacific cod. The brant goose (Branta bernicla) and the bean goose (Anser fabalis) are also migratory species that visit the area in spring and autumn. Some white-tailed eagles (Haliaeetus albicilla) migrate to the Kushiro region during the winter; others stay here throughout the year.
