The Japanese crested ibis were seen throughout the country until mid 19^th century. However, the number of these birds dramatically decreased during the 20^th century due to excessive hunting, urban development and the depletion of their natural diet caused by the use of agricultural chemical products. As a result, Sado Island 's unspoiled nature became their last ecological habitat. Although the aboriginal bird went extinct in 2003, artificial breeding by the same species donated by China has brought about a successful recovery; the number of the birds is now at about 100. A pilot program for releasing the sample birds back into Sado's skies is scheduled in fall 2008, marking the first year for the ibis to return to wild. For update information contact:  

Sado Tourist Information in Ryoutsu Office.