The biggest and the most endangered owl
The Blakiston's Fish-owl's nickname is "Philosopher in the wood" because it always seems to be thinking. It is the largest and one of the most endangered species in the owl family. It decreases in number mainly due to forest clearing and construction of dams and fisheries. Blakiston's Fish-owls are losing the wood and the fish they need to live.

Suffering by human activities
Blakiston's Fish-owls have also been hunted or caught in a trap for weasel. Just recently, there are more and more Blakiston's Fish-owls die in train or car accidents. The truth is that they are killed by a variety of human activities. In Hokkaido where several dozen pairs of Blakiston's Fish-owls are said to be remaining, people continue the conservation efforts, like providing food and bird feeders. Despite all such efforts, the total number of Blakiston's Fish-owl is still relatively low because it lacks the natural environment to live without fear.