Red-breasted Merganser, ウミアイサ

There were 4 birds that hung around the breaking waves about 200m from the coast in the small bay. 2 of them, a male and female came a little closer after a while. I had to hide behind the wall for about 30min. They all moved away and when they met with another group they performed a display.

Red-breasted Merganser, ウミアイサ

Acts of display. Too far for good photos, but through my binoculars it looked spectacular

Another far away scene: hundreds of cormorants crossing Hakata Bay

No water!

One day it was very cold. The water in the basin was frozen. Many Grosbeaks came down from the trees, but could not get a proper drink. Panic!

Japanese Grosbeak, イカル

Where are you walking? On Ice!!?

It didn't take long to figure it out. They all left.

Next chance: a nook in one of the big trees. The space is small and there wasn't much water in it. Good conditions for some squabbling and skirmishing.

Not only the Grosbeaks. These Dusky Thrushes, ツグミ were annoyed as well.

At a different tree, the same Grosbeaks.

It's hard in winter when the competition is fierce. I hope they will all make it to spring

Grosbeaks and Hawfinches

Early morning in the park again. Watching the Grosbeaks come to the water basin. Their behavior is interesting, I could watch it for hours...

The birds look real pretty in flight with their wings spread. Trying to capturing this moment is a lot of fun. I'm not nearly as good as some of my buddies, but look at this:

The flock generally behaves well. When 15 birds come down, all wanting a drink at the same time, the situation tends to become a bit tense. And a bit of squabbeling is normal. 

Most birds come to drink, some hardly gat a chance. Only once did I see one bathing. All by itself

Brr, cold!

Time to go!

The other day 2 Hawfinches, シメ were reported. I hoped to observe them, but they didn't come close. Not good for a picture. This is all I got.

Maybe another time.

Red-billed Starlings, ギンムクドリ

This winter they have been entertaining us from the side. While the audience was waiting for the Chinese visitor, a flock of 8 or 10 birds moved around the tall trees, often looking for water in the nook of a big trunk. Gradually, the audience moved with them.

Red-billed Starlings, ギンムクドリ

Male and female

Move on, it's my turn now

Great views at the basin. Male

Female

In the trees, way behind. Sometimes it's not clear whether they are fighting, asking attention, acknowledging, or just teasing each other. Who is in charge?