# Institute for Raptor Biomedicine Japan

> animal hospital and biomedical institute in Hokkaido,Japan

**Wikidata**: [Q115704281](https://www.wikidata.org/wiki/Q115704281)  
**Source**: https://4ort.xyz/entity/institute-for-raptor-biomedicine-japan

## Summary
The Institute for Raptor Biomedicine Japan (IRBJ) is a specialized animal hospital and biomedical research institute located in Kushiro, Hokkaido, Japan. Founded in 2005 by Keisuke Saito, the organization functions as a veterinary hospital and a research hub dedicated to the study and conservation of birds of prey.

## Key Facts
- **Full Name:** Institute for Raptor Biomedicine Japan
- **Abbreviation:** IRBJ
- **Founded:** 2005
- **Founder:** Keisuke Saito
- **Location:** Kushiro, Hokkaido, Japan (Specific Address: 北海道釧路市北斗2-2101 環境省釧路湿原野生生物保護センター)
- **Coordinates:** 43.35811° N, 144.175207° E
- **Legal Status:** Kabushiki gaisha (Stock Company) / Juridical person
- **Corporate Number:** 6460001004254
- **Primary Fields:** Ornithology, Bird of Prey (Raptor) Medicine, Wildlife Conservation
- **Website:** http://www.irbj.net/index.html

## FAQs
### Q: What type of organization is the Institute for Raptor Biomedicine Japan?
A: It is a unique hybrid organization that operates as both a veterinary hospital for wild animals and a formal biomedical research institute. Legally, it is registered as a *kabushiki gaisha* (stock company).

### Q: Where is the institute located?
A: The institute is located in the city of Kushiro on the island of Hokkaido, Japan. Its facilities are housed within the Ministry of the Environment's Kushiro Marsh Wildlife Conservation Center.

### Q: Who founded the Institute for Raptor Biomedicine Japan?
A: The institute was founded in 2005 by Keisuke Saito, who also serves as the organization's chairperson.

## Why It Matters
The Institute for Raptor Biomedicine Japan plays a critical role in the niche field of raptor conservation and veterinary science. By combining clinical veterinary services with high-level biomedical research, the institute addresses both the immediate medical needs of injured birds of prey and the broader scientific understanding of these species.

Located in Hokkaido, a region rich in biodiversity and raptor populations, the IRBJ serves as a vital resource for wildlife rehabilitation. Its work supports the monitoring of ecosystem health, as raptors are often indicator species. The organization bridges the gap between medical intervention and academic research, contributing valuable data to the fields of ornithology and wildlife conservation in Japan.

## Notable For
- **Dual Function:** Operating as both a veterinary hospital and a research institute specifically for raptors.
- **Specialization:** Focusing exclusively on birds of prey (raptors) and wildlife conservation, a relatively specialized field in veterinary medicine.
- **Location:** Being situated within the Kushiro Marsh Wildlife Conservation Center, facilitating close cooperation with environmental protection efforts.
- **Leadership:** Being led by founder Keisuke Saito since its inception in 2005.

## Body
### Organization and Legal Structure
The Institute for Raptor Biomedicine Japan (IRBJ) was established in 2005. While it functions as a research and medical facility, it is legally incorporated as a *kabushiki gaisha* (stock company) rather than a non-profit or academic institution. The organization's corporate number is 6460001004254. It was founded by Keisuke Saito, who continues to serve as the chairperson.

### Location and Facilities
The institute is based in Kushiro, Hokkaido. Its physical address is 北海道釧路市北斗2-2101, located within the premises of the Kushiro Marsh Wildlife Conservation Center (環境省釧路湿原野生生物保護センター). The geographic coordinates are 43.35811 latitude and 144.175207 longitude. The postal code for the facility is 084-0922.

### Research and Activities
Classified as a research institute, the IRBJ specializes in the "industry" of research with specific focuses on ornithology, birds of prey, and wildlife conservation. The facility operates an animal hospital dedicated to these fields.

### Online Presence
The institute maintains an active online presence to disseminate information. Its official website is accessible at http://www.irbj.net/index.html. On social media, the organization utilizes the handle **@info_irbj** across multiple platforms including Twitter, Instagram, and Threads. As of June 2023, the institute's Twitter account had approximately 9,030 followers.

## References

1. [Source](http://www.irbj.net/about/staff.html)
2. [Source](http://www.irbj.net/index.html)
3. [Source](https://www.houjin-bangou.nta.go.jp/henkorireki-johoto.html?selHouzinNo=6460001004254)