Habitat:
Coastal wetlands, estuaries, salt marshes

Activity period :
Primarily active during the day, with peak activity in the morning and late afternoon.

Identification and description:
The Black-faced Spoonbill, Platalea minor, is a rare and iconic waterbird native to East Asia. It is distinguished by its pristine white plumage and its unique, flattened black spoon-shaped bill. Its black face, which gives it its name, contrasts with the rest of its body. This migratory bird primarily breeds in North Korea and China, wintering in Taiwan, Hong Kong, and Vietnam. It frequents coastal wetlands, estuaries, and salt marshes. Habitat destruction and pollution are the main threats to this vulnerable species. Conservation of its natural habitats is crucial for its survival.

Recommended lens:
400mm – adjust based on distance, desired framing (portrait or habitat), and approach conditions.

Photography tips:
The Black-faced Spoonbill, or Platalea minor, is a large white wading bird known for its long, spatula-shaped bill. Smaller and rarer than the Eurasian Spoonbill, it can be identified by its black bill with a yellow tip and more secretive behavior. It breeds on a few coastal islands in South Korea and China, and winters mainly in Taiwan, Hong Kong, and northern Vietnam. It inhabits mudflats, estuaries, and coastal lagoons. Feeding by sweeping its bill through shallow water, it captures small fish, crustaceans, and worms. This gregarious species is endangered due to coastal habitat loss.