Wildcat animal keeper Animal Diary No. 8
October 10, 2026
Up until now, in "The Wildcat animal keeper 's Animal Diary," we've talked about various aspects of wildcat behavior and points to observe, but this time we'll tell you about Tsushima Leopard Cat in the summer of 2026.
Inokashira Park Zoo began raising Amur Leopard Cat in 2000. Utilizing this expertise, the zoo has been participating since 2006 in the "Tsushima Leopard Cat Conservation and Breeding Project," a joint initiative of Japanese Association of Zoos and Aquariums and the Ministry of the Environment, and currently houses two Tsushima Leopard Cat cats.
These are "Kyu" (male, estimated 17 years old), who was rescued in Tsushima City, Nagasaki Prefecture, where Tsushima Leopard Cat live, and "Fuyuto" (male, 17 years old), who was born at Fukuoka City Zoo.
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After being rescued on Tsushima Island, Kyu was moved to Fukuoka City Zoo and then came to the Cultural Park in 2022. In Fukuoka, breeding efforts were undertaken, and many offspring were born. Kyu has made a significant contribution to the formation of a captive population of Tsushima Leopard Cat cats.
Although they are kept in the back area of the zoo, they have a hearty appetite and have been healthy throughout this summer.
Fuyuto
Fuyuto, who arrived from Kujukushima Zoological and Botanical Gardens in 2012, spent his mornings wandering around the exhibit area, checking his own scent on the bamboo, following visitors, and sometimes hiding in the bushes to escape the sun. To help him cope with the heat, he was allowed to move freely between indoor and outdoor areas, but even when indoors, he was constantly checking what was happening outside and wandering around.
The two cats are now over 15 years old, and their gait and agility have declined with age, but they still managed to get through this summer in good health. We hope they will continue to lead the way for Tsushima Leopard Cat cats across the country and contribute to raising awareness of endangered animals from Tokyo.
[Inokashira Park Zoo Animal Care and Exhibition Staff, Karasawa]