September 4, 2024
A small Indian mongoose. The number of mongooses on the island grew quickly and their estimated number peaked at some 10,000 around 2000. PHOTO: ENVIRONMENT MINISTRY/JIJI PRESS/THE YOMIURI SHIMBUN
Japan declares eradication of mongoose on Amami-Oshima island
Their effectiveness in eliminating habu vipers could hardly be confirmed. Instead, they were found to be preying on the island’s endemic Amami rabbits and other native species.
