Visitor Center Report

During a walk near the Ishikari River I encountered a small group of Histrionicus histrionicus.
The colorful birds are males. On this day I found three pairs making a total of six birds.
Although this is still in the future in the case of these birds, only the females will care for the young, as the males will leave the group. Later, the females will also leave before their chicks are fully independent.
Like land animals, birds have various ways of raising their young.
Histrionicus histrionicus are classified in the Red Data Book of the International Union for Conservation of Nature as an endangered population.
Photo: Histrionicus histrionicus at Sounkyo May 20

An atmospheric optical phenomenon called a “halo” appeared today.
It is caused by the refraction of sunlight by ice crystals in the atmosphere.
Halos are often seen when poor weather is on the way, but the current forecast calls for sunshine…
Nonetheless, clouds gradually appeared.
Photo: A halo seen in Kamikawa Town May. 19

This photo was taken at the Sounkyo Picnic Site.
It shows the cherry blossoms and a still snow-covered Mt. Kurodake together with gradually appearing fresh green leaves in the surrounding area.
I always take a photo here for regular observation. I had half expected to find the blossoms knocked down by the snow, but the trees are still blossoming beautifully.
I always think the view here is simply magical.
Photo: View from the Sounkyo Picnic Site May 20

The snow had been melting nicely, but the recent snowfall has restored the peaks’ wintry appearance.
The temperatures have been rising since yesterday, so the rocky surfaces of the mountains should gradually reappear. However, judging by the photo, it is apparent that a considerable amount of snow has accumulated on Mt. Aibetsu, which can be seen on the right side.
Photo: The Daisetsuzan peaks as seen from Daisetsu Kogen Asahigaoka May 19

Although beautifully blossoming areas can still be found, the blossoms between Kamikawa Town and Sounkyo have taken on a somewhat bleak appearance due to the snowfall.
The other day I posted a photo of pedals in a puddle. Today I’m posting one of pedals on dry ground.
In its own way, this is also a pretty sight.
Nonetheless, I still can’t help feeling a little sad when the blossoms fall.
Photo: Fallen cherry blossom pedals in Kamikawa Town May 19