Wild Birds

Wild birds in the Amami islands

Resident birds in the Amami islands include many endemic species found only in the Amami region and Ryukyu archipelago. As these areas have a wide variety of distinctive environments, including forests, mangrove forests, tideland and so on, many different birds can be seen. So far, approx. 340 species are recorded, which share about 60% of the birds seen in entire Japan. With the series of islands, the region forms connecting hubs between mainland Japan and southeast Asia, offering migrating birds ideal stepping points for feeding and resting.

Lidth's jay (Garrulus lidthi)

A national natural monument, as well as Kagoshima prefecture’s symbolic bird, only found in Amami Oshima island, Kakeromajima island, and Ukejima island. Approx. 38 cm in body length. Male and female share the same body color, featuring beautiful bright blue from the head to the chest. Known for its unique hoarding.

Ryukyu Robin (Luscinia komadori)

Found in dim forests in Amami Oshima island, Tokunoshima islands and other islands. The bird has a distinctive and beautiful voice. A national natural monument. Approx. 14 cm in body length. A male has black feathers around the neck.

White-backed woodpecker (Dendrocopos leucotos owstoni)

This species inhabits in virgin forests with old trees in Amami Oshima Island. A national natural monument. Approx. 30 cm in body length. A family of woodpecker, opening holes on tree trunks for feeding and nesting. Males have red heads, while females have black heads.

Amami Thrush (Zoothera dauma major)

A national natural monument, only found in deep forest in Amami Oshima island. The species is very low in number, and a very rare bird species. They make clear sounds in dawn and sunset. Approx. 30 cm in body length

Scientific name (animal) Download（pdf:135KB）

Photos / ©Futoshi Hamada