Japanese Badger in Kyoto

　Whilst guiding a client, I spotted a Japanese badger. Although they are said to be the third most numerous species in Japan after raccoon dogs and foxes, they are nocturnal and therefore rarely seen. Their population numbers are uncertain, and this was the first time I had ever seen a wild specimen.

　They are said to be relatively tame, but as it began to growl at us, we made a swift retreat. There is a risk that they may carry viruses such as rabies, and being bitten would be a serious matter.

　Although I’m currently working as a guide or at the guesthouse every day during the spring vacation season, it was a day that really brought home to me the importance of getting out into the field frequently, whether to observe wild birds or mammals.