Lidth’s jay in Amami Oshima Island

　Despite being about the same size as the UK, Japan is home to 15 endemic bird species. Of these, four species, including the Lidth’s jay, can be observed on Amami Oshima Island, south of Honshu, and is designated a World Heritage Site.
　The Lidth’s jay became a protected species in 1921 after being overhunted since the end of the 19th century when its beautiful feathers were used to make women’s hats. In recent years, its population has recovered and it has been removed from the Red List of Threatened Wildlife and can now be seen close to people’s homes. It has beautiful lapis lazuli-coloured plumage but, in spite of this, its voice is a croak, much like that of a jay. The best time to observe them is in March, as their brooding begins in January.