Red-crowned Crane (Grus japonensis)

A very popular location in Hokkaido to watch red-crowned cranes roosting is Setsuri River from the Otowa Bridge. This is a long time favorite of both cranes and people alike, as the cranes feel safe here and come in a decent number, and humans get a beautiful view of the river, cranes and the surroundings.

From the bridge you’re in a great position to capture the cranes flying in or out as they cross the bridge. I was in luck this morning, as it could as easily have been a time of dense snow and heavy winds. Instead I was presented of a beautiful landscape with frost on the branches and soft and warm hues of the rising sun.

Red-crowned Crane (Grus japonensis)

It sounds like this:



Last updated on 17 May 2021