Are you willing to take responsibility for Ohkunoshima rabbits?

Following the trial regarding the mass killing of rabbits that occurred between 2024 and 2025, the rabbits on Okunoshima were reclassified as "animals subject to humane treatment"; however, they remain ownerless, non-native animals.

Neither in the past nor at present have the island's rabbits received any management or care, and there are no plans to alter the Ministry of the Environment's policy regarding them.

Given that 90% of tourists visit Okunoshima specifically for the rabbits, it is undeniable that the island is a tourist destination centered around them. Yet, not a single yen of the revenue generated is reinvested in these rabbits—the very stars of the attraction—nor is there any sign of progress toward future initiatives to protect them.

The Ministry of the Environment is not in the tourism business, nor does it desire the continued presence of rabbits on the island. Logically, the responsibility for protecting the rabbits—the island's most vital tourism asset—should fall to those who profit from tourism by actively promoting them.

Yet, is it realistic to expect a business that has thrived without providing food, care, or maintenance to suddenly take action for the sake of the rabbits?

Why do people feed them or give them water? Is it for the sake of the rabbits?

Can it really be said that this benefits the rabbits? If they fall ill or get injured, they are simply left to their fate.

Ultimately, doesn't the act of feeding or watering the rabbits amount to nothing more than supporting their exploitation for the sake of tourism?