Here is a fairly random selection of some of my fave shots from 2013.
A bit of a strange year, I didn't leave south Hokkaido at all. I have 2 (and probably 3) big trips planned for 2014 including a trip to see the eagles in Rausu plus a visit back to the UK.
I got 4 additions to my life (and Japanese) list ; Long Tailed Skua, Hooded Crane, Saunders Gull and Red Legged Kittiwake. The only 2 additions to my Hakodate list were Black Faced Spoonbill and Great Cormorant. I found all of them except for the crane (thanks to the kind retired birder in Yakumo for putting us onto that).
I got my new lens (and the whole of 2014 and slightly beyond will be spent paying it back).
Thanks to all for visiting my blog in 2013, especially those who leave comments. They are really appreciated. I hope you all have a great 2014.
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These are ALL exceptional images. Looking beyond the images at the subject species..... what a truly wonderful variety. My fave is the Ural Owl. I only saw a sleeping one in Finland earlier this year so those two images have made my day
ReplyDeleteHappy 2014
Dave
Thanks for the comment Dave, yes this one likes sleeping too......
DeleteA wonderful collection, and congratulations on the 4 lifers, and good luck with your plans for 2014 - Happy New Year.
ReplyDeleteThanks!
DeleteYou had a great year! Wishing you a wonderful 2014. Cheers, Wilma
ReplyDeleteThanks Wilma!
DeleteA really great selection, Stuart. They're fantastic. I'm jealous of you returning to Rausu. Be sure to take the right cruise! :) Happy New Year! I hope all is well for both of you. I'll be in Sapporo in August so maybe we can get together for drinks and/or some crappy late summer birding. Cheers!
ReplyDeleteDan! Yes I'm already fretting about f**king up on the eagles again..........it'll only be a short visit as I'll be with (non birding) relatives.
DeleteAugust sounds good, either in Sapporo or here.
A brilliant collection of shots that anyone would be proud of Stuart.I went back to pick a favourite and couldn't, but maybe the Owl and the Bullfinch. Have as good a 2014.
ReplyDeleteThanks Phil, the same to you........
ReplyDeleteGreat highlights, and it's nice to see Black-faced Spoonbill among the "All Stars"...Have a great 2014, I'm looking forward to seeing more with the 500 !
ReplyDeleteThanks for the comment John. BFSbill are a bit rarer in Hakodate than Hong Kong!
DeleteStunning collection of pictures, Stu. I wish you super trips to Rausu and the UK and a great 2014.
ReplyDeleteThanks Russell. It would be nice if our paths could cross one day.........
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