ABOUT
About Amami Spiny Rat
Endemic to Amami Oshima, designated a national Natural Monument in 1972. Body length 8.9-16 cm. The fur on its back is spine-like (only slightly stiffer than ordinary hair). A different species from the spiny rats of Okinawa Island and Tokunoshima. Omnivorous, feeding on Castanopsis sieboldii nuts, sweet potato, ants, and more. Its predator is the Habu pit viper. Breeds from October through December, with 1-7 young per litter. Nocturnal, and individuals are often observed running about on forest roads. Distinctively, it curls up and points its tail upward while bounding around a lot (unlike the black rat, which stretches its belly low and scurries along). It can be seen year-round, but is especially easy to observe in the breeding season (from around October) and in the period after breeding when numbers are high.
SAFETY
Observation Safety Notes
Please enjoy Amami's wildlife through photographs. Some species are protected by law or local ordinance, and capturing or removing them is prohibited. In special protection zones within the national park, collecting any wildlife is prohibited entirely. Please check the notes on this page, and confirm local rules before visiting any site.
