Okunoshima, also known as Rabbit Island, is a small island located off the coast of Japan. The island is famous for its large population of wild rabbits, which roam freely and interact with visitors. The history of the island is less known, however, as it was once used as a secret base for chemical weapons production during World War II. The island was closed off to the public until the 1980s when it was turned into a park and tourist destination. Today, visitors can enjoy the natural beauty of the island and its friendly rabbit residents while learning about its unique and often dark history.
Vocabulary:
• Sandy: covered with or full of sand.
• Palm-lined: with palm trees on either side.
• Holiday makers: people on vacation.
• Crowds: a large group of people gathered together.
• Descendants: a person, plant, or animal that is descended from a particular ancestor.
• Insist: to demand something forcefully, not accepting refusal.
• Feral: existing in a wild state, especially after domestication.
• Predator: an animal that naturally preys on others.
• Breed: (of animals) mate and then produce offspring.
• Run of the land: the freedom to go wherever one wants or to do whatever one wants.
Source: Great Big Story