In light of frequent Yambaru Kuina accidents, drivers asked to take caution and drive slowly

In light of frequent Yambaru Kuina accidents, drivers asked to take caution and drive slowly

Yambaru Kuina, in May, in Kunigami Village


May 30, 2021 Ryukyu Shimpo

 

(Northern Okinawa) There are frequent occurrences of traffic accidents involving the Yambaru Kuina, a Natural Monument of Japan. On May 29, the Okinawa Amami Natural Environment Office announced that 11 such traffic accidents have been confirmed from January 1 to May 20, with 10 Yambaru Kuina being killed. It said that there may be increased cases of parent birds and chicks running onto the road in May and June, when the parents are raising their young. It also made an appeal for people “to leave plenty of time and take care to drive slowly.”

 

According to the Office, accident numbers are trending downward in recent years, but increased by two compared to last year (January to May). All of the accidents occurred in Kunigami Village, with many occurring on prefectural roads 2 and 70.

 

It said that particular caution is needed in the morning and evening and on rainy days, when the birds are most likely to appear on the road.

 

It asks that if anyone encounters an accident, they should contact a relevant organization. The Ministry of the Environment Yambaru Wildlife Conservation Center (Ufugi Nature Museum) can be reached by telephone at 0980-50-1025. The NPO Dobutsutachi No Byoin Okinawa can be reached by telephone at 090-6857-8917.

 

(English translation by T&CT and Sandi Aritza)

 

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