Explorer The Wonderland. Eastern Hokkaido

Kushiro City Zoo

Do you know the name of the animal that was revered by the Ainu as "a guardian spirit of the village"? The Blakiston's fish owl, or “Kotan Kor Kamuy” in Ainu language, is one of the largest owls, and its appearance is worthy of its divine reputation. This magnificent owl is now in danger of extinction, with a current population of approximately 140 in Hokkaido. The Kushiro Zoo also carries out a central role as a conservation facility for the wild animals of Eastern Hokkaido. The Zoo is also known for its first successful captive breeding of the Blakiston's fish owl.