When I realized I didn't have any good photos of Common Teals, I stopped at the waterlogged fields in Saga, where reflection is good on a windless day.
Common Teals, コガモ
It's a bit the same with Spoonbills. I see them so often, I hardly care to take notice.
Black-faced Spoonbills, クロツラヘラサギ in Itoshima.
Traditionally, I went solo camping in January in Isahaya, stayed in the car and didn't do anything but hold my binos and camera. Despite the promising conditions and the number of active birds a few weeks before, there was little to see this time. Few birds, few people. However, one Owl appeared at the end of the afternoon.
Short-eared Owl, コミミズク
January was cold at last. Surprisingly, when the sun warmed the edge of the forest, a butterfly came to rest. Its purple wings right open. I hope he survives the winter.
Japanese Oakblue, ムラサキシジミ
Now that the trees have lost most of their leaves, cocoons of moths ガの繭 become visible
I always look out for the colorful berries of Oriental bittersweet, ツルウメモドキ
Last an image of a partly submerged leave, that looked like guttation, but wasn't.
The most popular bird in M Park is the Chinese Grosbeak, beyond doubt. A long line of cameras is set up at the water basin, where photographers might get a chance to observe the target bird at eye level. They have to be there early, though. And prepared to wait in the cold. I did and braved the elements 3 times. Yet again, without gloves.
The best place for birdwatching this winter is M park, in the city. It attracts a lot of photographers, but that can also be fun. It sure beats staying at home, despite the cold.
Red-billed Starling, ギンムクドリ
