Night (and Day) of the Lepus

In more proof that God has a sense of humor, Okunoshima Island, which used to be the home of the Japanese Imperial Army’s poison-gas weapons lab/factory, is today overrun with bunnies.

The furry descendents of the original lab animals have largely taken over the island and are protected by the Japanese government. No dogs or cats allowed.

The rabbits are apparently unafraid of humans, often approaching visitors in search of a handout or to sell postcards of Mt. Fuji and cheap, Godzilla dolls.

 

 

If you plan on visiting the island, beware of “feeding frenzies.” Several tourists have reported lost cameras, wallets, and dignity.

The Okunoshima Island Chamber of Commerce advises visitors to always travel in groups of no less than two.

After years of study, natural scientists have discovered that the rabbits have also developed sophisticated and complex tribal groups.

Much like Bloods and ‘Crips of Los Angeles, each bunny gang has staked out parts of the island as their exclusive territory. It is impossible to tell the gangs apart though, as the rabbits have not yet learned how to tie bandanas. Again, visitors are cautioned on traveling alone.

Because this behavior is rare and puzzling given normal rabbit-habits, scientists postulate that it is due to a genetic mutation or some environmental factor.

Indeed, due to the unknown lasting effects of chemical testing on the island, zoologists now believe that the rabbits have developed advanced skills in engineering and materials sciences which they have employed to create vast flotillas of rabbit submersibles.

These craft can be observed navigating in the shallow waters surrounding the island during good weather.

Whether they are intended to be used as escape vessels, or as an invasion fleet has yet to be determined.

Currently, it is believed that the rabbits are using their bun-subs solely for reconnaissance and underwater demolition training.