The rabbits on Okunoshima are originally domesticated rabbits that now live freely. The population is believed to survive mainly because large numbers of tourists feed them, which is supported by the fact that their numbers fell when tourism declined during the pandemic years.
The unusually large number of rabbits has affected the vegetation on the island, as well as the behaviour of other animals.
Researchers from Fukushima University write in the Journal of Ecotourism that wild boars have been seen eating leftover rabbit food and rabbit carcasses, as well as hunting rabbits. The availability of food and animal remains also attracts birds such as crows, which may be a sign that the feeding has affected wildlife on the island more broadly.
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