Species: Whooper Swan | Location: Lake Akan, Japan
Our group was visiting the island of Hokkaido and was staying in Lake Akan. There was an optional birding option very early in the morning. We traveled to a geothermal lake and arrived at about 6:15 am. The temperature was 6 degrees F, with a wind chill below 0 degrees F. We were told that the swans would arrive around 7 am. They didn't get the memo and arrived around 7:45. Because it was so cold there was only a narrow strip of open water right near the shore. A group of swans landed and some of them moved into the water. I chose this shot because it shows that even the geo-thermally heated water was starting to freeze, yet it didn't seem to bother the swans.
About The Photographer
I'm a world traveler who has been traveling the globe for the past 15 years, visiting places that are being most impacted by global warming. My initial photography interest was in macros of plants and flowers, but once I obtained a longer lens, I became an avid wildlife photographer. I enjoy visiting off-the-beaten-path places and capturing images of the flora and fauna. I also enjoy sharing these images and experiences with others through my web site and personal presentations.
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