Changes of Abundance of Japanese Macaques in Yakushima over the Past 20 Years

A significant decline in the population of Japanese macaques (Macaca fuscata) on Yakushima Island over 20 years, particularly in northern and eastern regions, has been attributed to high hunting pressure for pest control, which exceeded 1,000 individuals annually after 2009. The study, conducted through point observations between 1991-1994 and 2013-2014, found that while hunting pressure was highest in these areas, it was absent in the west and low in the south. Conifer plantations, more prevalent in northern and eastern regions, may also contribute to the population decline. The findings suggest an urgent need for alternative pest control measures, particularly in high-pressure zones.

MIYATA, A., YOSHIHIRO, S., TAKAHATA, Y., MANDA, M., FURUICHI, T., KURIHARA, Y., HAYAISHI, S., & HANYA, G. (2017). Changes of Abundance of Japanese Macaques in Yakushima over the Past 20 Years. Primate Research, 33(1), 35–42. https://doi.org/10.2354/psj.33.001