- 14 Mar 2002
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Some Tokyo parks face a growing problem of cicada larvae being over-collected, prompting managers to install multilingual warning signs. Reports indicate that some of the collecting—often observed during night patrols—involves groups, including foreigners, gathering large quantities of larvae, possibly for food. While the exact purpose remains unclear, the practice has led to concerns about ecological impact and public safety. Saru Yuencho Park in Koto Ward has dealt with this issue for several years, particularly during the rainy season. One resident described being startled by people silently searching trees in the early morning darkness. In response, the park has put up around 30 signs in Japanese, Chinese, Korean, and English, urging visitors not to collect larvae and highlighting the disappointment of children who enjoy seeing cicadas.
A sign banning the collection of cicada larvae in Sarue Onshi Park in Koto Ward (photo credit: Shiraiwa Kenta via Sankei)
The park's management, which began posting warnings four to five years ago, ramped up efforts this year after complaints from park users and concerns over food harvesting. Last summer, security guards encountered groups, believed to be Chinese, taking large numbers of larvae and refusing to stop, citing language barriers and a lack of understanding about local rules.
While catching a few cicadas might be tolerated, park officials say mass collecting is disruptive. Similar warnings have appeared in Tokyo's Suginami and Arakawa wards, as well as in Kawaguchi City, Saitama Prefecture. Tokyo regulations ban environmentally harmful or commercial collection in public parks.
Translated from:
www.sankei.com
A sign banning the collection of cicada larvae in Sarue Onshi Park in Koto Ward (photo credit: Shiraiwa Kenta via Sankei)
The park's management, which began posting warnings four to five years ago, ramped up efforts this year after complaints from park users and concerns over food harvesting. Last summer, security guards encountered groups, believed to be Chinese, taking large numbers of larvae and refusing to stop, citing language barriers and a lack of understanding about local rules.
While catching a few cicadas might be tolerated, park officials say mass collecting is disruptive. Similar warnings have appeared in Tokyo's Suginami and Arakawa wards, as well as in Kawaguchi City, Saitama Prefecture. Tokyo regulations ban environmentally harmful or commercial collection in public parks.
Translated from:
セミの幼虫「採取禁止」の張り紙 都内の公園、食用目的で乱獲か 中国語でも注意喚起
都内の公園でセミの幼虫が乱獲される事案が相次ぎ、公園管理者が「採取禁止」を呼び掛ける張り紙を掲示した。公園では深夜に外国人が採取する目撃情報が寄せられ、張り紙…
Cicadas, Frank, not cockroaches!
