Will Okunoshima rabbits ever be saved？ （Petition for system to protect rabbits)

There are many sick rabbits.

No helping hand will be extended by anyone.

10/25/26

Those who sign are likely of the opinion that the rabbits on Okunoshima should be helped. Conversely, those who hesitate to sign may be opposed to sterilization, or they may believe that no intervention should be made to assist these feral rabbits.

Visitors who have enjoyed their time on Okunoshima might feel a strong aversion to the idea of ​​sterilization. Furthermore, those who fail to notice rabbits suffering from illnesses or injuries are likely to have little awareness of the underlying issues; they have no way of knowing that these animals are currently left without any form of care or management..

If the goal is to transform Okunoshima into a sustainable tourist destination while also ensuring the proper care of its rabbits, the current rabbit population and the extent of their habitat make such an objective entirely unrealistic. Unless the population is reduced to a manageable number and the rabbits’ range is strictly limited, any calls for their "rescue" or improved welfare will remain nothing more than a pie in the sky.

The Ministry of the Environment’s policy of "let the nature be nature” stands in direct opposition to the practice of tourists feeding or providing water to the animals.

If one truly accepts the principle of "let the nature be nature”, then providing food or water is inappropriate.

Conversely, if these animals—which are classified as protected animals—are to be fed and watered, then it is only logical that they should also receive full, ongoing care.

Please sign the petition, keeping in mind that if nothing is done, rabbits will continue to suffer and die.