The beginning of the modern new year in January overlaps two traditional Japanese seasons: 冬至 Tōji (Winter solstice) and 小寒 Shōkan (Lesser cold). In Shiga Prefecture autumn colors have mostly disappeared. Susuki grass and shrubs along rivers have become a darker shade of brown. We can see some flowers, but most large and colorful flowers have been planted. Small winter migrant birds have appeared, adding some activity and color to the countryside and local parks.
Tag Archives: flowers
Birds & Plum Blossoms in Risshun (立春)
The two-week period of February 4-18 marks the beginning of spring, Risshun (立春) in the traditional Japanese calendar of 24 seasons. In southern Shiga Prefecture winter birds are still here, often hiding in bushes and trees as raptors patrol the skies. Sparrows are active in fields, and great cormorants return to local colonies. Pink and […]
Selected Photos of 2018
Twenty of my favorite 2018 photographs of birds, insects, flowers, and landscapes In 2018 I learned the names of quite a few flowers and insects, and I began to look more carefully at larger scenes such as woodlands and riverbanks. In 2019 I want to learn more about the natural world and improve my vision […]
A Ride to Hatonomori Park
On December 13, 2018, I rode my mountain bike down along the left bank of Yasugawa to Moriyama. Along the way quite a few Japanese black kites (トビ) were flying and roosting on the ground and in trees near the carcass of a large fish. Below the weir I rode over the embankment that divides […]
Wildflowers and Insects
Here in Shiga Prefecture some wildflowers continue to bloom well into November. They attract a variety of flying insects, including butterflies, moths, bees, hoverflies, and wasps. On November 3, 2018, quite a few insects were feeding along an irrigation canal near rice and soybean fields near my home. Common grass yellow butterfly (Eurema hecabe hecabe, […]
