Added on August 2, 2023:
We've added an update on "Kamadee." Please see here for more details.

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Due to the aging of Domestic Pig" Domestic Pig" and "Ayo" kept at the "Children's Zoo STEP" in West Garden of Ueno Zoo, management will be implemented with the animals' health as the top priority.

Therefore, please understand that the exhibition hours may be changed or the exhibition may be canceled. We would also appreciate your continued warm support for the three animals.

Domestic Pig "Chiru" (female, 13 years old, arrived at the zoo on November 7, 2008)
In 2021, blood tests revealed a significant increase in white blood cells, and CT scans and cytology have identified lesions in the lungs, kidneys, and other organs that appear to be metastatic tumors. Currently, the animal caretaker and veterinarian are continuing treatment and daily care with the primary goal of maintaining Chiru's quality of life (QOL).

Chiru passed away on September 6, 2021. Please see this page for details regarding the circumstances of her death.


Domestic Pig "Chirū"
(Date of photo: July 19, 2021)
Domestic Pig "Navi" (female, 12 years old, arrived at the zoo on September 25, 2009)
Although elderly, it has a good appetite and maintains a healthy condition.


Domestic Pig "Navi"
(Date of photo: July 19, 2021)
Ayo "Kamade" (female, 13 years old, arrived at the zoo on November 7, 2008)
In 2019, squamous cell carcinoma of the skin and an associated abscess were discovered. The cancer subsequently improved, but the abscess persisted, so the animal was hospitalized for treatment considering the condition of its skin. The skin condition improved with treatment, but the abscess recurred, so currently (August 2021) the exhibit is closed and the animal is receiving treatment.


Ayo "Kamade"
(Date of photo: July 19, 2021)

About Domestic Pig and Ayo

Domestic Pig is believed to have originated from Chinese Domestic Pig brought from China in the 14th century, and has been used in Okinawa since ancient times, where it is called "Shimabuta" (island pig). It is entirely black, has large, drooping ears, a short body, and a concave back. It can tolerate a simple diet and has a robust constitution.

The Ayo pig is said to have originated from Domestic Pig that was presented to the Ryukyu Kingdom by Britain in 1844 as a reward for rescuing a shipwrecked vessel, and is also known as "Karabuta" (Chinese pig). It has black and white spots on its body, and its back is not as sunken as that Domestic Pig pig. It has a gentle temperament and is well-suited for meat production.

Update on Ayo "Kamade" (Added September 6, 2021)

The skin condition has completely recovered thanks to the treatment. We stopped the medication and were monitoring the situation, and since there are no health problems, we will reopen the exhibit on September 7th.


Kamade's skin condition has completely recovered.
(Date of photo: September 6, 2021)

Update on Ayo "Kamade" (Added September 22, 2021)

Due to a recurrence of a skin abscess in Kamade, we will be suspending her exhibit from September 22, 2021 until further notice for treatment. Please check the notice board at Futaba Children's Zoo STEP, for updates regarding future exhibits.

While you won't be able to see Kamadei, the Domestic Pig exhibit (Domestic Pig "Navi (female)") will continue.


Kamadey performs the treatment.
(Date of photo: September 22, 2021)

Update on Ayo "Kamade" (Added March 24, 2023)

After her skin condition stabilized, she was allowed back on display at Futaba Farm, but on January 18, 2023, she became ill again and was hospitalized once more. During her hospitalization, she underwent various tests and was kept indoors as a precaution during the cold season, but as the weather improved, she returned to Futaba Farm on March 20, 2023 (Monday, a day the farm is closed).

Going forward, we plan to prioritize the health of Kamade, who is now 15 years old, when conducting exhibits. Please check the notices at Futaba Farm for information on whether or not Kamade will be on display.


Kamadee (left) returns to Futaba Ranch (Photo taken on March 20, 2023)
[Ueno Zoo Children's Zoo Staff]

(August 4, 2021)
(September 6, 2021: Added an update on Ayo "Kamadee")
(September 22, 2021: Added an update on Ayo "Kamadee")
(March 24, 2023: Added an update on Ayo "Kamadee")
(August 2, 2023: Added a link to an article about Ayo's "Kamadee" recent activities.)