There’s something truly special about standing at the edge of a tidal flat in Okinawa, camera in hand, waiting for the arrival of one of the world’s rarest waterbirds. The Black-faced Spoonbill is a species I never take for granted, knowing that not long ago, fewer than 300 of these birds remained in the wild. Their numbers have slowly climbed in recent years, but with only a few thousand left across East Asia, each sighting feels like a privilege. Their winter presence in Okinawa is fleeting, and as a photographer, I see it as both an opportunity and a responsibility—to capture their beauty while raising awareness of their fragile existence.

Black-faced Spoonbills at a favored location close to the southern region of Itoman.

Each winter, I make my way to a selection of locations but more predominantly to the Manko Wetlands or Awase Tidal Flats, hoping to witness these elegant birds as they wade through the shallows. Photographing the Black-faced Spoonbill in Okinawa requires patience and careful observation. They move with a slow, deliberate grace, sweeping their distinctive spoon-shaped bills through the water in search of prey which can be small fish or crustacea, shrimps and crabs etc. The morning light is often perfect, casting a golden glow on their white plumage and reflecting off the glassy water. Framing them against the the backdrop, or capturing the moment they take flight, wings outstretched against a soft winter sky, is always a rewarding challenge. If I could change one thing it would be to find a location that allows me to get as close to the water level as possible.

As I enjoy these photographic moments, I can’t ignore the fragility of their existence. Habitat loss remains their greatest threat, with wetland destruction continuing across their range. Climate change is another looming danger, disrupting the ecosystems they depend on. Okinawa provides a critical refuge during the colder months, along with a stunning array of additional winter visitors, but for how long? Every year, I notice small changes—construction creeping closer to the wetlands, disturbances that push the birds farther away. This is why photographing the Black-faced Spoonbill in Okinawa is about more than just getting the perfect shot; it’s about documenting their story and ensuring others understand why these wetlands, and other favored locations, need protection.

As a wildlife photographer, I believe we have a role to play in conservation. I always keep my distance, using long lenses to avoid stressing the birds, and I encourage others to do the same. Respect for nature must come before the pursuit of a photograph. Sharing these images responsibly helps spread awareness, and I hope that by showing the beauty of the Black-faced Spoonbill, more people will be inspired to protect the places they call home. Photographing the Black-faced Spoonbill in Okinawa is a humbling experience—one that reminds me that every encounter with wildlife is a fleeting gift, one worth preserving for generations to come.

If you've been a follower of my blog entries you'll see there is no steady frequency to my posts. I'm hoping to update that effort a little more in the coming times. I do however post a lot more frequently to my Instagram so if you'd like to follow on there too that would be awesome.

"Everyone likes birds. What wild creature is more accessible to our eyes and ears, as close to us and everyone in the world, as universal as a bird"?

Television Presenter - David Attenborough