Eurasian spoonbill

　The Eurasian spoonbill, characterised by its spoonbill-like beak. In Japan, small numbers migrate annually, primarily to Kyushu. In the Izumi Plain, they can be seen quite close by, such as along the roads of the East Reclamation Area, and are often photographed alongside large flocks of cranes.

　Though not classified as endangered, its breeding range in Europe is localised, leading to its listing under Appendix II of the Convention on International Trade in Endangered Species of Wild Fauna and Flora (CITES).

    In Senegal, where I was based, small numbers migrate from Europe during winter. Research using GPS tags has revealed they travel from France, pass through Spain, cross into Morocco, and then migrate along the Atlantic coast.

    When yawning, it resembles a pelican.