The remote and beautiful island of Tsushima boasts a truly special natural environment, and almost 90% of the island is still covered in forests. Its unique ecological system also means that Tsushima is home to wild animals which cannot be found anywhere else in the world. Perhaps the most famous of these is the Tsushima Leopard Cat. Unfortunately, the population of these cats is declining due to road kills and changes to its natural habitat. As a result, in 1994, the Japanese government has designated the Tsushima Leopard Cat as a National Endangered Species.
The Tsushima Wildlife Conservation Center works to protect not only the Tsushima Leopard Cats, but all of Tsushima’s wildlife. It carrys out ecological research and public awareness to protect the island’s natural environment. The center also hosts events, and offers visitors the opportunity to meet a real Tsushima Leopard Cat!