On November 5 at the Aizu Secret Base in Fukushima, a female Crested Kingfisher flew in to Tree No.1 on a dark, rainy morning, giving us a perched shot among the autumn leaves.
6:11 — A female lands on Tree No.1 in the rain
After heavy rain the day before, it was still raining that morning.
Expecting dark conditions, I had decided to focus on perched shots at Tree No.1.
At 6:11 a female flew in from the left and landed right there. Having her perch first thing in the morning made me truly happy. Raindrop-covered branches and colored leaves made for a quiet, moody frame.
6:13 — Moving to the tree at the back right
She then moved to the tree at the back right.
The leaves there are now past their peak, but her white figure stood out against the deep red-purple foliage — a true late-autumn scene.
Next, I am hoping for the autumn colors behind Branch No.3 at the back left.
A scene only while the leaves remain
Before the ground freezes, while the pair still spends time together, the kingfishers are perching and hunting here.
Once the leaves fall, the background turns to winter scenery.
Even on rainy days, you can capture autumn leaves and Crested Kingfishers in one frame from the tent — only now.
Autumn Crested Kingfisher season is now open. Book early.
[Field Update]
・It is getting much colder. Please dress warmly.
・For now, the hide is just a few meters from the car, making it easy to carry gear.
We do not know how long this will last.
Extra care for the birds is needed, but please take advantage of this chance.
・Aizu Secret Base shares daily field conditions in real time. Guests with bookings can use them as reference up to their guide day.
See also our Wild Bird Photography Guide.
■Highlights
MEDIA & PUBLICATIONS
Publications
As an editorial member of the monthly magazine BIRDER, I shoot covers and opening features,
bringing the wild birds of Aizu to readers across Japan.
Feature ON SALE 2026.04.14
BIRDER May 2026
Available at bookstores in Japan or online:
Cover ON SALE 2025.11.14
BIRDER December 2025
Available at bookstores in Japan or online:
COLLABORATION
BIRDER / OM SYSTEM
| ◆Current Guide Status | Status | Meet | Depart |
| Crested Kingfisher | Open | 4:20 | 4:30 |
| Mountain Hawk-Eagle | Closed | － | － |
| Ruddy Kingfisher | Closed | － | － |
※Tours run rain or shine. Tent-style hides are used for Crested and Ruddy Kingfishers.