The ribs of Anderson's crocodile newt are untethered to any muscular attachments at their ends and jut into the skin along its back, giving it an armoured appearance. When threatened, it adopts an anti-predator posture — using its sharp rib tips to pierce the rows of bumps on its sides.

Lidth's jay is only found on a few of the Ryukyu Islands in southwestern Japan. Its existence has been threatened by the introduction of mongooses and an increased crow presence on these islands. As of a 2016 survey, fewer than 3,900 mature jays are estimated to remain.

To make his presence known, a male copper pheasant will drum loudly with his wings — creating a booming "phrrrrp" sound — and show off his tail feathers, which can grow to be 125 cm (4.1 ft) long. The males also fight for a female's favour; jumping and kicking at each other to decide a victor.

The Japanese weasel's agility and lithe body allow it to pursue its prey anywhere; down tunnels, up trees, or into water. During winter, it spends its time pursuing rodents through snowy tunnels and, after catching and eating its target, it lays down to enjoy the warmth of its prey's burrow.

Often described as ghostly, the elusive Japanese serow lives in the wooded mountains of central and southern Japan. Typically solitary, it stands on rocky outcrops, staring down at the landscape for extended periods — likely watching for predators or rivals. It can be active both day and night.

Endemic to Japan, the Japanese badger — like other badgers — lives in underground dens called "setts". However, the Japanese badger is known to be more solitary, with even mated pairs often living in separate setts. It is currently unknown why this is the case.