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TsushimaLeopardCat

Conservation Activities

Conservation Activities

Tsushima Wildlife Center’s mission is to preserve its population of Tsushima Leopard Cats through research, conservation, and breeding programs.

Research

A bobcat drinking water at a puddle site where an automated camera is installed. This camera is used to monitor the bobcat

We undertake long term investigations of the cat’s population and health

Read Activities in Tsushima

Habitat preservation

Photo of a shallow river with clear water, surrounded by trees.

Tsushima Leopard Cats are the island’s apex predator and require a particular habitat for them and their prey. We work to preserve it.

Breeding program (Cooperation with Japanese Association of Zoos and Aquariums)

This is a picture of a Tsushima leopard cat being protected at a zoo. The body is on its side, but its face is looking toward us.

The Tsushima Leopard Cat population has been decreasing in recent years, especially on the southern island. To mitigate the risk of extinction caused by infectious diseases, a “Breeding program” has been held in partnership with the Japanese Association of Zoos and Aquariums (JAZA) to supplement breeding in the wild.

Read Partnership with zoos

Re-introduction

Photo of a bobcat jumping out of its cage at night by center staff. The center is developing techniques to reintroduce them to the wild.

In the significant population decline, it might be necessary to consider the re-introduction of fecund Leopard Cats into specific areas.
We are elaborating training plans to make sure breeding individuals have the strength and skills to survive in the wild.

Read Preparing for Re-introduction is needed

Other works

We are engaging in conservation activities such as:

  • Reducing the number of roadkills and traffic accidents by teaming up with municipal/prefectural institutions.
  • Treating injured Tsushima Leopard Cats and rehabilitating them to return to the nature
  • Observing any human activities in the habitat that would disturb the Leopard Cat’s everyday life and breeding.
  • Protecting the Leopard Cats from any harm that could be brought by stray cats/dogs and any non-indigenous species.
  • Creating a community where humans and Leopard Cats can coexist.

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