Koshima, the Birthplace of Japanese Primatology
Koshima is a small island located in Miyazaki prefecture, the southwest of Japan, off the coast
of Kyushu. On Koshima Island there are approximately 100 Japanese monkeys (Macaca
fuscata), well known for the behavior of washing sweet potatoes.
Koshima Field Station
Koshima Field Station is an additional facility of Wildlife Research Center as a base of research in Koshima Island.
Koshima Field Station is located in opposite side accross the sea from Koshima Island. This station was built as a base of reseach in the island in 1968. A lot of guest researchers visit and utilize the station.
History
1934
Koshima Island and the Japanese Macaques in the island were desiginated as a natural monument.
1948
Kyoto University started researches on the Japanese Macaques.
1952
Researchers succeeded in feeding the Macaques for the first time in Japan.
1953
Sweet potato washing behaviors were found.
1967
Primate Research Institute (PRI) was established in Inuyama.
1968
Koshima Field station was built as an additional facility of PRI.
1970
We started to weigh the monkeys in the island.
1983
Koshima Field Station was enlarged.
2008
Koshima Field Station was transferred to Wildlife Research Center.
Address
16-1 Ichiki, Kushima, Miyazaki, 889-3311 Japan