I found this leech (yama-biru) enjoying a blood meal on my foot while I was taking a break during a hike high in the mountains of central Japan. This video includes footage of the bloody wound the leech inflicted on my foot, so if you are shy of seeing blood you might not want to watch.

There are two main types of leech in Japan including the blood sucking type shown in this video as well as a much larger carnivorous variety. This latter leech is without sucking mouthparts and instead has a giant mouth which allows it to swallow prey nearly as large as the leech. Please see the video link below to view this fascinating carnivore of the moist forest floor taking on a giant earthworm. (KB)

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Please copy and paste the link above into your browser address field or search YouTube for the video titled 'Japan Mountain Leech vs. Giant Earthworm'

🐝 During a serene hike through the lush, elevated terrains of central Japan, a sudden and intimate encounter with nature's adept survivor unfolds. This video documents the moment a blood-sucking Japanese Mountain Leech (yama-biru) was discovered feasting on a foot during a restful pause in the hike. Captured within this footage is not only the leech's tenacious grip but also the aftermath of its feeding—a vivid portrayal of the bloody wound inflicted, offering a raw glimpse into the realities of wilderness exploration.

For those sensitive to the sight of blood, viewer discretion is advised as the video provides a close-up view of the impact these creatures can have on their unwitting hosts. The Japanese Mountain Leech, one of two primary types of leeches found in Japan, contrasts sharply with its larger, carnivorous counterpart, which employs a vastly different method of consumption, lacking sucking mouthparts and instead possessing a large mouth to engulf prey nearly its own size.

Join Kurt Bell as he navigates this unexpected aspect of hiking in Japan's magnificent mountains, shedding light on the diverse and sometimes hidden challenges of venturing into the natural world. This encounter serves as a stark reminder of the close encounters one can have with the more parasitic inhabitants of the forest and the importance of vigilance and preparation when exploring these beautiful but untamed landscapes. 🌄📚🚶‍♂️

🐝 [ Ссылка ] Get your copy of "Going Alone" at this link (the hardcover edition is recommended) 🤠🏜️☀️

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Be safe... But not too safe.

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CREDITS:
"Japanese Falls" image: Lane Brown | View More: [ Ссылка ]
"Song For Kurt" theme: Nowherians | Listen Here: [ Ссылка ]

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