Wildlife Spotting
Wildlife Watching in Furano: A Guide to Hokkaido’s Creatures of the Forest and Sky
Furano is known for its rolling lavender fields, ski slopes, and picturesque landscapes. But venture beyond the tourist trails, and you’ll find that the region is also home to an array of fascinating wildlife. From elusive owls to wandering bears, Furano’s forests, rivers, and mountains host some of the most remarkable animals Hokkaido has to offer. Here’s an overview of the creatures you might (or might not) encounter in the Furano region—and just how likely you are to see them.
For the curious souls craving a deeper dive, links are provided to detailed guides on each of these remarkable animals.
Ezo Brown Bear (Ursus arctos lasiotus)
Chance of Seeing: Rare (but possible in remote areas)
The Ezo brown bear, a close relative of the grizzly and a subspecies of the Eurasian brown bear, holds the title of Hokkaido’s largest land predator and one of Japan’s most formidable mammals. These massive creatures roam the forests and mountains, foraging for berries, nuts, and small animals—sometimes even venturing into campsites in search of unguarded snacks. Though their size and strength are awe-inspiring, they play a vital ecological role, aiding in seed dispersal and maintaining the health of the island’s forests.
In Furano, while you are unlikely to encounter one of these bears on a typical hike, they do inhabit the more remote mountainous regions. Sightings are rare but not impossible, particularly in the summer and autumn when bears are foraging heavily to prepare for hibernation. If you’re planning to explore wilder areas, it’s wise to remain vigilant. Look for telltale signs of their presence, such as scat, tracks, or claw marks etched into trees. For peace of mind, carry a bear bell to announce your presence, as bears tend to avoid human contact when given the chance. By taking these precautions, you can safely enjoy Furano’s untamed beauty while respecting the habitat of its most imposing residents.
Sakhalin Fox (Vulpes vulpes schrencki)
Chance of Seeing: Common
The Sakhalin fox, a subspecies of the red fox, is one of Furano’s more commonly spotted mammals and a true emblem of the region’s wildlife. With its russet fur, bushy tail, and striking black-tipped ears and paws, this adaptable predator thrives in a variety of habitats, from forest edges and grasslands to urban outskirts. In Furano, these curious creatures are often seen at dawn or dusk, prowling farmlands or skirting woodland trails in search of their next meal. Their diet is as varied as their habitat, ranging from small mammals and insects to the occasional human food scrap (left unattended at your own risk).
While their sleek appearance and endearing antics make them tempting subjects for closer observation, it’s important to admire them from a respectful distance. Sakhalin foxes can carry parasites, including Echinococcus, which pose health risks to humans and other animals. Feeding them, no matter how adorable they look, can lead to habituation and disrupt their natural behaviors. So, enjoy their charm, snap a photo or two, and let these sly yet shy inhabitants of Furano remain wild and free.
Yezo Sika Deer (Cervus nippon yesoensis)
Chance of Seeing: Very Common
Yezo sika deer are a quintessential part of Hokkaido’s landscape, and Furano is no exception. These graceful creatures, a large subspecies endemic to the island, are a common sight grazing in open fields or forest clearings. Their soft brown coats and, on the males, stately antlers lend an almost storybook charm to the scenery. But don’t let their serene demeanor fool you—they have a knack for surprising drivers by darting across roads without so much as a glance at oncoming traffic. This is particularly true during dawn and dusk, so if you’re behind the wheel, keep your eyes peeled.
In autumn, the deer put on a spectacular show during the rutting season. Males can be heard emitting eerie, guttural calls that echo through the forests as they vie for dominance. Antler clashes are not uncommon, adding an element of wild drama to Furano’s tranquil countryside. While generally wary of humans, these deer have adapted well to the presence of people, making them relatively easy to spot during a hike or a scenic drive. Just remember, they might be fairy-tale elegant, but on the road, they can turn into unexpected—and rather large—obstacles.
White-Tailed Eagle (Haliaeetus albicilla)
Chance of Seeing: Rare
The white-tailed eagle, a winter visitor to Hokkaido, is a sight to behold with its immense wingspan stretching up to 2.4 meters and its commanding presence in the skies. These majestic birds of prey are most often found along the coasts and rivers where fish and waterfowl are plentiful, making the northeastern stretches of Hokkaido their favored winter retreat. While Furano, being farther inland and lacking large bodies of water, isn’t their typical haunt, there’s always a slim chance of spotting one during the colder months near local rivers or lakes.
For birdwatchers determined to glimpse this regal raptor, a journey toward Hokkaido’s coasts offers the best odds, where these eagles congregate in greater numbers. Their appearance anywhere, however rare, is a testament to the health and vitality of the ecosystem, a reminder of the intricate connections between these predators and their environment. Whether in Furano or beyond, catching sight of a white-tailed eagle is a rare but unforgettable experience.
Ezo Raccoon Dog “Tanuki” (Nyctereutes procyonoides albus)
Chance of Seeing: Rare
The Ezo raccoon dog, or tanuki, is a creature of mystery and folklore, adding an air of enchantment to Hokkaido’s forests. This nocturnal canid, known for its distinctive facial markings and bushy tail, is a prevalent subspecies in the region, often spotted in the wooded areas around Furano. By day, these secretive animals remain hidden, but come nightfall, they emerge to forage for berries, insects, and small animals. If you’re out for an evening walk or driving along a forested road at dusk, you might catch a fleeting glimpse of one rustling through the underbrush or trotting along the roadside.
In Japanese folklore, tanuki are renowned as mischievous shapeshifters with a penchant for trickery, often depicted as whimsical and jovial. While their real-life counterparts may not possess magical abilities, their elusive nature makes spotting one in the wild a rare and delightful experience. Tanuki occasionally venture into rural settlements, though they tend to avoid direct interaction with humans. For those patient and fortunate enough, an encounter with this enchanting nocturnal resident of Furano is sure to feel like a brush with legend itself.
Pika (Ochotona hyperborea yesoensis)
Chance of Seeing: Very Rare
Pikas, those endearing, rabbit-like creatures with button noses and high-pitched calls, are the undisputed charmers of Hokkaido’s rocky, mountainous terrain. These small lagomorphs thrive in alpine meadows and rugged slopes, where they dart between rocks collecting vegetation to stockpile for winter. While their industrious antics are delightful to watch, spotting them is no easy feat. Their fur blends seamlessly with their surroundings, and their habitats tend to be in higher elevations, well beyond the gentle farmland and fields of Furano.
If you’re determined to catch a glimpse of a pika, you’ll need to venture into the loftier, rockier reaches of the Tokachi Mountain Range or Daisetsuzan National Park. Armed with patience, a good pair of binoculars, and perhaps a knack for staying very still, you may be rewarded with the sight of one scurrying between the rocks or pausing momentarily to squeak its signature call. While they’re not the easiest residents of Hokkaido to encounter, their charm makes the effort entirely worthwhile.
Ezo Red Squirrel (Sciurus vulgaris orientis)
Chance of Seeing: Common
Ezo red squirrels, with their bushy tails and tufted ears, are among the most delightful inhabitants of Furano’s forests. This subspecies of the Eurasian red squirrel is endemic to Hokkaido and can be spotted scampering through the trees year-round. Agile and energetic, they spend their days foraging for nuts and seeds, often dashing up tree trunks or leaping gracefully from branch to branch.
Early mornings are the prime time to catch a glimpse of these acrobatic rodents, especially in wooded areas near rivers or in parks where coniferous trees provide ample food and shelter. Their lively movements and endearing antics make them a favorite sight for nature lovers, offering a charming reminder of the bustling life teeming within Furano’s serene landscapes. If you’re lucky enough to see one of these furry gymnasts, take a moment to watch—it’s a delightful experience that never fails to bring a smile.
Black Woodpecker (Dryocopus martius)
Chance of Seeing: Highly Unlikely
The black woodpecker, Japan’s largest and most dramatic woodpecker, is a true spectacle for bird enthusiasts. With its striking black plumage and vivid red crown, this bird cuts an imposing figure as it navigates the mature forests of Hokkaido. While sightings in Furano are not particularly common, the telltale sound of their powerful drumming or their loud, resonant calls often gives them away before they come into view.
These impressive birds thrive in older forests, where they excavate large cavities in decaying trees, both for nesting and foraging for insects. Patience and a keen ear are essential for spotting them, as their dark feathers allow them to blend effortlessly into their surroundings. If you’re lucky enough to catch sight of one, whether hammering away at a tree trunk or perched majestically in the canopy, you’ll understand why these woodpeckers are among Hokkaido’s most captivating avian residents.
Hazel Grouse (Tetrastes bonasia)
Chance of Seeing: Highly Unlikely
The hazel grouse is the ultimate feathered ninja of Hokkaido’s forests, a small, elusive bird that blends seamlessly into the undergrowth with its superbly camouflaged plumage. In the dense woods around Furano, these shy creatures are more likely to be heard than seen, their distinctive, high-pitched whistles echoing softly through the trees—especially during the breeding season.
Spotting one requires a combination of luck, patience, and quiet hiking skills. Early mornings are your best bet, as the forest stirs to life and the grouse are at their most active. If you’re fortunate, you might catch a fleeting glimpse of one scuttling through the underbrush or vanishing into the ferns as swiftly as it appeared. For birdwatchers and hikers, the hazel grouse is both a challenge and a reward, a fleeting moment of connection with Hokkaido’s more secretive wildlife.
Ezo Momonga (Pteromys volans orii)
Chance of Seeing: Highly Unlikely (but possible at night)
The Ezo momonga, Hokkaido’s enchanting flying squirrel, is as elusive as it is adorable. A subspecies of the Siberian flying squirrel, this nocturnal marvel is known for its large, round eyes and the remarkable ability to glide silently between trees, thanks to a membrane stretching from its wrists to its ankles. During the day, these pint-sized acrobats are tucked away in tree hollows, sleeping soundly and out of sight.
If you’re hoping to spot one in Furano, prepare for a nighttime adventure. Head into the mixed forests at dusk or after dark, armed with a flashlight—preferably with a red filter to avoid disturbing their nocturnal routine—and aim your gaze upwards. Even with all the right equipment, catching sight of a momonga requires a hefty dose of patience and luck, as they flit soundlessly between treetops. But should you be fortunate enough to see one of these wide-eyed creatures in action, it’s a moment of pure magic that makes the effort more than worthwhile.
Shima Enaga (Aegithalos caudatus japonicus)
Chance of Seeing: Possible (in winter)
The Shima enaga, affectionately known as Hokkaido’s “snow fairy,” is the avian embodiment of charm. These tiny, fluffy birds, with their pure white faces and long tails, look as though they’ve been plucked straight from a children’s storybook. In Furano, you’ll often spot them flitting between branches in forests or woodland edges, and occasionally even in gardens. Their soft calls and acrobatic foraging antics make them a delight to watch, particularly for bird enthusiasts.
These social little creatures are usually found in small flocks, moving through the trees with a flurry of energy that belies their delicate appearance. Winter is the prime season for observing Shima enaga, when their snowy plumage blends seamlessly with the frosty landscape, creating a scene so picturesque it could make a postcard blush. Whether you’re an avid birdwatcher or simply enjoy moments of natural wonder, encountering these “snow fairies” is an unforgettable highlight of exploring Furano’s enchanting winter forests.
Red-Crowned Crane (Grus japonensis)
Chance of Seeing: Unlikely
The red-crowned crane, a symbol of longevity and good fortune in Japanese culture, is one of the rarest and most elegant birds in the world. Towering at over 1.5 meters tall with a wingspan exceeding 2 meters, these majestic creatures are a sight to behold, particularly during their elaborate courtship dances—a graceful spectacle of synchronized bows and leaps.
While Furano’s wetlands are not part of their usual range, the cranes are occasionally spotted in the area, though sightings are rare. For a more reliable encounter, a trip to the marshes and wetlands of eastern Hokkaido, especially around Kushiro, is a must. Winter offers the best opportunities to see them as they gather near feeding grounds, their snowy white plumage blending beautifully with the frosty landscape.
Whether glimpsed by chance or sought out with purpose, these iconic cranes leave an indelible impression, their elegance and rarity serving as a poignant reminder of the delicate balance of Hokkaido’s natural world. If you’re willing to make the journey, the experience is every bit as breathtaking as the cranes themselves.
Blakiston’s Fish Owl (Bubo blakistoni)
Chance of Seeing: Virtually Zero
The Blakiston’s fish owl, the largest owl in the world, is as impressive as it is elusive. With a wingspan broad enough to rival a small hang glider and piercing yellow eyes that seem to look right through you, this nocturnal apex predator reigns over Hokkaido’s forested waterways. Its diet, unsurprisingly given its name, consists largely of fish, which it plucks with precision from rivers and streams.
Unfortunately for wildlife enthusiasts in Furano, spotting one of these magnificent owls here is about as likely as finding a unicorn. These endangered birds require old-growth forests with abundant waterways, habitats more commonly found in the eastern reaches of Hokkaido. The Shiretoko Peninsula and the town of Rausu are far better places to glimpse them, often through guided wildlife tours designed to minimize disturbance to these sensitive creatures.
While the odds of seeing a Blakiston’s fish owl in Furano are virtually nil, just knowing that these majestic birds call Hokkaido home adds a certain thrill to exploring the island’s wilder corners. If you’re willing to venture farther afield, the reward of observing this enigmatic predator in its natural habitat is nothing short of extraordinary.
Ezo Ural Owl (Strix uralensis japonica)
Chance of Seeing: Highly Unlikely
The Ezo Ural owl, with its soulful hoots and striking round face, is a captivating resident of Furano’s forests. While it may not have the sheer size or rarity of the Blakiston’s fish owl, this nocturnal bird has a charm all its own. Often perched in tree hollows or silently watching from a sturdy branch, the Ezo Ural owl is most active at dawn and dusk, when it glides through the forest in search of small mammals. Its flight, silent and ghostly, is a mesmerizing sight for those lucky enough to witness it.
Unlike its larger and more elusive cousin, the Ezo Ural owl is more commonly spotted in the Furano region, making it a favorite among local photographers and birdwatchers. Observing one requires patience, a good eye, and a fair amount of quiet—these owls are masters of blending into their surroundings. But if you’re fortunate enough to catch one mid-hunt or perched majestically against the backdrop of Hokkaido’s forests, it’s an experience you won’t soon forget. For those seeking a glimpse of Furano’s nocturnal wildlife, this enchanting owl offers a glimpse into the secretive life of the region’s twilight dwellers.
Steller’s Sea Eagle (Haliaeetus pelagicus)
Chance of Seeing: Highly Unlikely
Steller’s sea eagles, true titans of the bird world, are winter visitors to Hokkaido, where their sheer size and striking appearance make them hard to miss—at least along the coasts. These massive raptors, with their bold black-and-white plumage and unmistakable yellow beaks, are among the largest eagles in the world and a regular feature of the Shiretoko Peninsula and Rausu during the colder months. Watching one swoop down to snatch a fish from icy waters or perch regally on a chunk of sea ice is an unforgettable experience for any wildlife enthusiast.
While their preferred habitats are the northeastern coasts of Hokkaido, Furano’s proximity to the Tokachi River Basin occasionally offers the rare opportunity to spot one inland. However, these sightings are few and far between. For the best chance of seeing these magnificent birds, a trip to Hokkaido’s coastal areas is essential, ideally with a birdwatching tour during the winter months. Whether you glimpse them soaring across a frozen seascape or perched like emperors surveying their domain, Steller’s sea eagles are the very definition of avian majesty.
Final Thoughts on Furano’s Fascinating Fauna
Whether you’re hiking the trails, wandering through the forests, or simply soaking in the scenic beauty of Furano, there’s a vibrant world of wildlife waiting to be discovered. From the agile Ezo red squirrel darting through the treetops to the haunting calls of the Ural owl echoing through the woods, every encounter offers a glimpse into Hokkaido’s ecological wonders. Some animals may be shy or rare, while others might appear in the most unexpected moments, adding an element of surprise to your adventure.
For avid birdwatchers, casual nature lovers, or those simply curious about Japan’s fauna, Furano delivers unforgettable moments with its diverse array of creatures. Pack your binoculars, listen carefully to the rustling leaves and distant calls, and keep your camera at the ready—you never know when you might find yourself face-to-face with one of Hokkaido’s most fascinating residents. Above all, remember to tread lightly and respect the environment, leaving only footprints behind as you immerse yourself in the magic of Furano’s untamed beauty.