Crabs With Beach Trash Homes – Okinawa, Japan

Posted on October 19, 2014 by Admin11

Crabs with beach trash homes is a series I am currently working on. I photograph Blueberry hermit crabs (Coenobita purpureus) that have begun to use beach trash as their home. The crabs are photographed in their natural environment and also on white for the Meet Your Neighbours global biodiversity project. The images are used for environmental awareness and educational purposes.

Crabs with beach trash homes © Shawn Miller

Blueberry hermit crabs are commonly found on local beaches in Okinawa. Most crabs are blue but occasionally have color variations of purple, pink, orange and or gray. They prefer to have a seashell as a protective home but when no shell is available they adapt.

Blueberry hermit crabs (Coenobita purpureus)

Blueberry hermit crab (Coenobita purpureus) with a seashell © Shawn Miller

Before plastic caps filled our shorelines, hermit crabs adapted using tree nuts if no shells were available.

Hermit crab and tree nut © Shawn Miller

It’s becoming more common to find crabs with beach trash homes. I have friends combing local beaches in search of more crabs for my series. While these are cute images, our trash is becoming a serious problem to the ocean and the animals that call the shoreline home. I often find hermit crabs using a variety of plastic caps from twist top pet bottles, laundry detergent containers, small propane tanks, sports water bottles and beauty supplies.

Possible reason why Blueberry crabs adapt with beach trash

Limited number of available shells causing them to make due with the best homes they can find. This is a good example of adaptive behavior.

Hermit crabs are very social animals and often fight over shells. Having a protective lightweight shell that covers the abdomen (soft parts of the animal) is crucial for survival.

Hermit crabs fighting over prime real estate © Shawn Miller

Battle over real estate © Shawn Miller

A close-up of the sensitive abdomen (photographed using the MYN technique)

Naked hermit crab © Shawn Miller

Hermit crabs are scavengers and take advantage of any food washed ashore. They mainly feed on dead fish, barnacles, other crabs, algae, insects, plants, fruit and various seeds. The screw pine (Pandanus odifer) is one of their favorite foods. I imagine long ago these vital plants lined our shorelines in abundance. Numbers are decreasing due to deforestation.

Pandanus odifer © Shawn Miller

Eventually the fruit drops to the ground and the sweet smell attracts the hermit crabs

Hermit crab feeding © Shawn Miller

The hermit crabs feed on the the fresh keys and help with seed dispersal. They both benefit in this relationship. The Pandanus tree provides shelter, shade, food for the hermit crabs.

Hermit crab and Pandanus © Shawn Miller

Eventually the keys dry, turn brown and litter the local beaches. The dispersed keys provide a perfect environment for hermit crabs to blend in with.

Where the treeline meet the beach © Shawn Miller

Hermit crabs prefer to be in a shell that protects the entire body from predators. Sometimes they have to temporarily adapt with a much smaller shell. The retracted hermit crab tightens up to protect itself. Ball up, play dead and blend into the environment, minimizing the risk of being preyed upon.

Could this be a form of masquerading or just coincidence ? It resembles (mimics) the shape of the screw pine seed to possibly avoid detection from potential predators.

Hermit crab and screw pine seed © Shawn Miller

Hermit crabs have the ability to ball up tight to protect their eyes. (Transformers)

Hermit crab retracted © Shawn Miller

Below are some of my favorite images photographed on a portable field studio board (MYN Technique). The crabs are safely placed on a white studio board, photographed and released back into the natural environment (MYN Technique).

Blueberry hermit crab (Coenobita purpureus) with cap © Shawn Miller

Blueberry hermit crab (Coenobita purpureus) in plastic tube © Shawn Miller

Blueberry hermit crab (Coenobita purpureus) in plastic top cap © Shawn Miller

Blueberry hermit crab (Coenobita purpureus) in plastic © Shawn Miller

Blueberry hermit crabs (Coenobita purpureus) in plastic cap © Shawn Miller

Blueberry hermit crabs (Coenobita purpureus) in plastic top cap © Shawn Miller

Blueberry hermit crab- Ryukyu Islands © Shawn Miller

Blueberry hermit crab – Okuma, Okinawa © Shawn Miller

It’s important to photograph the hermit crabs in their natural habitat. I prefer to photograph them using a wide angle lens to achieve a unique perspective.

Meet zori -Wide angle macro © Shawn Miller

Hermit crab- Plastic pollution © Shawn Miller

Blueberry hermit crab, Wide angle macro © Shawn Miller

Meet scoop- Quaker © Shawn Miller

Meet shady – Worldwide trash problem

Hermit crab in a glass bottle- Yomitan, Okinawa.

Meet cassette -CWBTH © Shawn Miller

Airplane -Senaga Island ,Okinawa © Shawn Miller

Land hermit crab, Onna-Okinawa © Shawn Miller

Meet sparky- using a plastic cap from a cassette gas tank © Shawn Miller

Energy drink home- Trash homes © Shawn Miller

The rock climber -Northern Okinawa © Shawn Miller

Sunset Time – Yomitan ,Okinawa © Shawn Miller

Beach pollution- CWBTH © Shawn Miller

Tree climber- © Shawn Miller

Plastic pollution – beach trash © Shawn Miller

Crabs and plastic – WAM © Shawn Miller

Got Meds -Beach trash © Shawn Miller

Get off the road jack – © Shawn Miller

Crabs and plastic -Onna Village © Shawn Miller

I also photograph the hermit crabs using a dedicated macro lens. I mainly use the Canon 60 mm or 100 mm macro lens to concentrate on the subject. These crabs are fairly small and it’s important to have a lens that will focus close and deliver high quality sharpness.

Meet Edison- Gobe700 © Shawn Miller

Meet hand -toy end cap © Shawn Miller

Beach trash -hermit crabs © Shawn Miller

Blueberry hermit crab, Okuma-Okinawa © Shawn Miller

Laundry detergent cap – Northern Okinawa © Shawn Miller

Cassette gas tank cap – bbq beach party © Shawn Miller

White cap on drift wood © Shawn Miller

Meet scoop- © Shawn Miller

Blueberry hermit crab, Hedo-Okinawa © Shawn Miller

Meet Edison -Gobe700 © Shawn Miller

Blueberry hermit crab, Onna-Okinawa © Shawn Miller

Blueberry hermit crab, Hedo-Okinawa © Shawn Miller

School project ” Crabs with beach trash homes ” My family and I collected trash on a local beach in Onna village. This is just a small portion of our beach trash findings. The kids did a great job creating a project with impact.

Kirana’s school project © Shawn Miller

Kyle’s school project © Shawn Miller

Otis Brunner found this hermit crab flattened on a beachside parking lot. As you can see the plastic doesn’t provide much protection.

Road kill – © Otis Brunner

Behind the scenes photograph ” Crabs with beach trash homes ” I have documented over sixty crabs with beach trash homes. If you would like to see more images check out my Flickr account.

Shawn Miller – Crabs with beach trash homes. Photographed by David Orr

June 10th, 2010 was my first experience seeing a hermit crab with a trash home.

Land hermit crab climbing a tree © Shawn Miller

My series ” Crabs with beach trash homes ” has been featured on World Wildlife Fund, Petapixel, Business Insider, National Geographic, Atlas Obscura, Global citizen, Plethorist, Daily Telegraph, Little things, 15minutenews, Roaring earth, Hyperdojo, News.com.au, Follow news, Neotorama, BoingBoing, Insider, Activist, Now100fm and varies Scientific websites.

Planet or Plastic June 2018 featured

Learn more about making a difference, TEDx talk | Adapting to or Changing Environment by Shawn M Miller

My Mission: To Protect and Preserve the Wildlife of the Ryukyu Islands for Future Generations. – If you would like to join my journey, check out my Patreon https://www.patreon.com/MakeTheSwitch4Nature

Your donations will help worldwide conservation initiatives as well as bring solutions to the worldwide pollution issues on our beautiful shorelines. Thank you for your support. Shawn M Miller.

Canon EF 400mm f/5.6L USM Lens – Birds Of Okinawa

Posted on October 17, 2014 by Admin11

The Canon Ef 400mm f/5.6 USM lens is a light weight high performance prime lens. The auto focus system is impressively fast without hesitation. It performs best when photographing birds in flight and animals on the move. This is a very sharp high quality lens and would recommend purchasing it if you are on a limited budget.

The Common kingfisher (Alcedo atthis) is one of my favorite birds to photograph with the the Canon EF 400mm f/5.6L USM Lens.

Common kingfisher (Alcedo atthis)

A beautiful Ryukyu hawk owl spotted during daylight.

The Ryukyu hawk owl (Ninox scutulata)

The Black Faced Spoonbill (Platalea minor) is a common visitor in Southern Okinawa.
The Spoonbill is critically endangered and has an estimated population of less than 3000.

The Black Faced Spoonbill (Platalea minor).

The Pryer’s woodpecker (Sapheopipo Noguchii) is the prefecture bird of Okinawa and designated as a natural treasure of Japan. It is a rare species only found in the northern part of Okinawa.

Pryer’s woodpecker (Sapheopipo Noguchii) Yanbaru forest

A Wiskered tern (Childonias hybridus) shaking away – Kin, Okinawa.

Wiskered tern (Childonias hybridus)

The Japanese wood pigeon is listed as near threatened on the IUCN red list of threatened species. A very difficult bird to photograph.

Japanese wood pigeon

The Rudy kingfisher is a summer visitor. Another bird hard to photograph

Rudy kingfisher (Halcyon coromanda)

The Japanese white eye (Zosterops japonicus) is popular to photograph in January. The green and yellow feathers compliment the pink cherry tree blossoms.

Mejiro – Japanese white eye

The Okinawa rail (Gallirallus okinawae) is a flightless bird only found in the northern part of Okinawa. It is a protected species and declared a living natural monument. It is currently listed by the International Union for Conservation of Nature (IUCN) as an endangered species. In 2012 populations of this endemic bird were estimated at 1500 by the Environment Ministry.

Okinawa Rail ( Gallirallus okinawae)

The Glossy ibis (Plegadis falcinellus) is a rare visitor in Okinawa. Nature Photographers travel from Mainland Japan to photograph this beautiful bird.

Glossy ibis (Plegadis falcinellus)

The male Japanese sparrowhawk ( Accipiter gularis ) has stunning bright red eyes. This bird can pluck the feathers off a sparrow within minutes.

Male Japanese sparrowhawk ( Accipiter gularis )

The Common kingfisher (Alcedo atthis) dive bombing a fish. This bird is a spectacular hunter.

Common kingfisher (Alcedo atthis) dive bombing a fish

Check out more Images of Birds of Okinawa-

All Images were photographed using the Canon 70d with the Canon EF 400mm f/5.6L USM Lens.

Canon 70d with 400mm f/5.6L USM Lens

Have a great day!

Marine Life Washed Ashore – Typhoon Vongfong

Posted on October 15, 2014 by Admin11

Super Typhoon Vongfong was considered to be to be the strongest storm of the year. We were very lucky the strength of the storm died down before it landed on the Island of Okinawa. The typhoon brought heavy winds and rough sea conditions. A fair amount of marine life could not cope with these harsh conditions.

A Common Pufferfish ( Diodon holocanthus) with beach trash © Shawn Miller

Blue starfish (Linckia laevigata) washed ashore © Shawn Miller

Carinalfish washed ashore with styrofoam in its mouth © Shawn Miller

Venomous Sea snake (Emydocephalus ijimae) © Shawn Miller

Horned sea star ( Protoreaster nodusus ) washed ashore © Shawn Miller

Large sea slug (Dolabella auricularia ) with internal shell © Shawn Miller

Sea cucumber ( Holothuria scabra ) washed ashore © Shawn Miller

Soft coral ( Lobophytum sp ) washed ashore © Shawn Miller

All images were taken on the western portion of the Island using the Canon 70d.

Have a great day!

Using the Light & Motion Sola red light feature to document the marine life of Okinawa

Posted on October 2, 2014 by Admin11

I have been using the Light & Motion Sola series underwater lights for over two years now. They are the most reliable lights I have ever used underwater. The Sola photo series 800 and 1200 offer a red light feature. This feature enables the user to photograph the marine life without disturbing them. Most marine animals do not see or react to the red light.

I decided to put the Sola red light to the test on some marine subjects. I first setup a small studio saltwater aquarium to place the specimens in.

Aquarium setup - Documenting the Marine Life of Okinawa

Aquarium setup – Meet Your Neighbours Project

I wanted to photograph some marine gastropods with their shell and body showing. I first tried using white light, but they immediately retreated back into their shell. As soon as I turned on the red light the marine snails crawled around as if it was nighttime. This red light feature allowed me to get the documentation photograph that I planned.

Cowrie shells are one of many beautiful marine animals found in Okinawa. Photographing the animals on white isolate the subject without any distractions.

Chinese cowrie ( Ovatipsa chinensis )

The animals are handled with care and then released back into the the environment without harm. The Images are used for conversation awareness and educational purposes.

Teres cowrie shell ( Blasicrura teres pellucens )

I usually use the Sola Red light underwater. This is my underwater rig with the Light & Motion Sola 600 mounted on top of my Ikelite underwater housing.

Underwater setup with sola 600

If you would like to test the Sola Photo 1200, please let me know. Friends and supporters – Save 20% off your first Light & Motion purchase https://prz.io/648x6bGC1

Learn more about the Light & Motion Sola series. https://www.lightandmotion.com/choose-your-light/sola

Learn more about the Meet Your Neighbours Project. https://meetyourneighbours.net/okinawa-neighbours/

Have a great day-

Hazardous marine life of Okinawa by Shawn Miller

Posted on September 7, 2014 by Admin11

Okinawa offers some of the best snorkeling and scuba-diving in the world. The ocean is filled with vast amounts of marine life only found here. With all recreational hobbies, there are hazards to be concerned with. Okinawa has much hazardous marine life, most of which is located in very shallow water.

Safety first or pay the worst – Image taken by Shannon Fox

Ways to avoid injury

- Be respectful and avoid harassing, touching, and feeding marine life.
- Maintain good buoyancy control
- Recognize warning signs of aggression
- Avoid wearing shiny jewelry
- Wear exposure protection

The Lionfish is beautiful but a hazardous fish. The spines deliver a painful sting with potent venom injected into the body. The Lionfish is native to this region, so there is no need to try to kill it.

First aid: Wash the area with soap and fresh water. Remove foreign material and control any bleeding. Soak the limb in hot water (113 F / 45 C) or use hot packs. Seek immediate medical treatment.

Lionfish ( Pterois volitans) © Shawn Miller

Most sea urchin injuries are due to people accidentally stepping on them in the shallow surf. Wearing proper footwear decreases your chances of getting injured.

First aid: Remove visible spines. Wash with soap and water. Pain control if needed-hot water (113 F / 45 C) or use hot packs. Seek medical treatment if spines have entered the joints.

The Diadema urchin (Echinothrix diadema) © Shawn Miller

Moray eels deliver a vicious bite with razor-sharp teeth. In some cases, the eels latch on and do not let go. Avoid placing hands into holes and feeding the eels.

First aid: Control the bleeding and seek medical treatment. Monitor for signs of infection

Moray eel -Gymnothorax flavimarginatus © Shawn Miller

The crown of thorn starfish has sharply pointed spines that deliver a painful sting. The spines inject venom, which causes extreme pain, discomfort, and possible nausea. Most injuries occur because divers are cutting up the starfish with a dive knife and a spine accidentally penetrates the hand. The starfish has a purpose in the ecosystem, so leave it alone.

First aid: Remove visible spines. Wash with soap and water. Pain control if needed-hot water (113 F / 45 C) or use hot packs. Seek medical treatment if spines have entered the joints.

The crown-of-thorns starfish, Acanthaster planci © Shawn Miller

Coral moderators – COT’S © Shawn Miller

The blue-ringed octopus is one of the most beautiful marine animals. It is only the size of a golf ball but is extremely venomous if bitten. Avoid picking up this shallow-water octopus.

First aid: Wash the area with soap and fresh water. Apply pressure and limit your movement. Immediate medical treatment. Monitor ABC’s

Blue Ringed Octopus (Hapalochlaena lunulata) © Shawn Miller

Fire coral are calcareous hydrozoans that deliver a painful sting. Avoid touching or rubbing against it.

First aid: Rinse with vinegar. Remove foreign matter. Wash area with salt water. Pain control if needed-hot water (113 F / 45 C) or use hot packs.Seek medical treatment if infection occurs.

Fire coral ( Millepora sp) © Shawn Miller

Fire coral ( Millepora sp) © Shawn Miller

Fire coral nematocysts © Shawn Miller

The reef stonefish is the most venomous fish found in Okinawa. It is truly a master of camouflage. The Stonefish resembles a rock blending into the coral reef. The spines deliver a painful sting with potent venom injected into the body

First aid: Wash the area with soap and fresh water. Remove foreign material and control any bleeding. Soak limb in hot water (113 F / 45 C) or use hot packs. Seek immediate medical treatment immediately.

Stone-zilla -huge stonefish © Shawn Miller

Reef stonefish ( synanceia verrucosa ) Sunabe, Okinawa

Reef stonefish ( synanceia verrucosa ) © Shawn Miller

The reef stonefish buried under the sand!

Reef stonefish ( synanceia verrucosa ) under sand

Reef stonefish ( synanceia verrucosa ) Sand dweller © Shawn Miller

Cone shells are sought after by many shell collectors for their beauty. The marine snail injects potent venom with a harpoon-shaped tooth.

First aid: Wash the area with soap and fresh water. Apply pressure and limit your movement. Immediate medical treatment. Monitor ABC’s

Princely cone hunting – Proboscis out © Shawn Miller

Geographic cone (Gastridium geographus) © Shawn Miller

Textile cone shell (Cylindrus textile textile) © Shawn Miller

Darioconus omaria © Shawn Miller

The most dangerous cone shells of Okinawa are found in shallow water

Venomous cones shells of Okinawa © Shawn Miller

The scorpion fish is another master of camouflage. The spines deliver a painful sting with strong venom injected into the body. These fish usually warn you of their presence by flaring out their fins and spines.

First aid: Wash the area with soap and fresh water. Remove foreign material and control any bleeding. Soak limb in hot water (113 F / 45 C) or use hot packs. Seek immediate medical treatment.

Reef Scorpionfish (Scorpaenopsis Cirrhosa) © Shawn Miller

Stinging hydroids (fireweeds) are common in Okinawa. They are all avoidable as long as you do not touch or rub up against any. The hydroids deliver a painful sting.

First aid: Rinse with vinegar. Remove foreign matter. Wash area with salt water. Pain control if needed-hot water (113 F / 45 C) or use hot packs. Seek medical treatment if an infection occurs.

Stinging Hydroid (Aglaophenia cupressina). Also known as Sea Ferns, Fire Hydroid, Fireweed, Feather Hydroid, Stinging Seawee

Stinging Hydroid (Aglaophenia cupressina) © Shawn Miller

An injury caused by fireweed. This photograph was taken three weeks after the painful sting.

Hydroid sting © Mark Kane

Sea snakes will not harm you unless provoked. I have never heard of any divers being bitten in Okinawa. Rare cases have occurred with fisherman removing their catch from nets, and they were bitten on the hand.

First aid: Wash the area with soap and fresh water. Apply pressure and limit your movement. Immediate medical treatment. Monitor ABC’s

Turtle head sea snake (Emydocephalus ijimae) © Shawn Miller

Blue banded sea snake (Laticauda colubrina) © Shawn Miller

The Leaf Scorpionfish is a venomous fish found on the reef. It resembles a leaf and blends in with debris very well. The spines deliver a painful sting.

First aid: Wash the area with soap and fresh water. Remove foreign material and control any bleeding. Soak the limb in hot water (113 F / 45 C) or use hot packs. Seek immediate medical treatment

Scorpion Leaf fish © Shawn Miller

The cockatoo wasp fish is a venomous fish found in shallow water. It resembles a leaf and blends in with debris very well. The spines deliver a painful sting.

First aid: Wash the area with soap and fresh water. Remove foreign material and control any bleeding. Soak the limb in hot water (113 F / 45 C) or use hot packs. Seek immediate medical treatment.

Cockatoo waspfish (Ablabys taenianotus) © Shawn Miller

The fire urchin is the most beautiful sea urchin found in Okinawa. Its beautiful colors attract divers to pick it up. The spines inject venom, which causes extreme pain and discomfort.

First aid: Remove visible spines. Wash with soap and water. Pain control if needed-hot water (113 F / 45 C) or use hot packs. Seek medical treatment if spines have entered the joints.

Fire urchin (Asthenosoma ijimai) © Shawn Miller

Porcupine sea urchin (Platybrissus roemeri)

Porcupine fire sea urchin (Platybrissus roemeri) © Shawn Miller

The flower urchin is the most venomous sea urchin found in the world. It is a collector urchin, often using rocks or dead coral to cover itself.

First aid: Remove foreign matter. Wash with soap and water. Pain control if needed-hot water (113 F / 45 C) or use hot packs. Seek medical treatment

Flower urchin (Toxopneustes pileolus) © Shawn Miller

The pedicellariae inject venom, not the spines. It’s excruciating and irritating.

Flower urchin (Toxopneustes pileolus) © Shawn Miller

” Ball of spines” The burrowing urchin is an abundant echinoderm found here. Most injuries occur reef walking without proper foot protection. The sharp spines are painful and irritate the skin.

Burrowing sea urchin (Echinometra mathaei) © Shawn Miller

The bristle worm is also known as the fireworm. It delivers a powerful sting when threatened. The bristle-like spines inject venom, which causes extreme pain and discomfort.

First aid: Remove bristles using tape. Wash with soap and fresh water. Seek medical treatment if needed. Monitor signs of infection

Bristle worm (Chloeis sp) © Shawn Miller

Common fire-worm (Eurythoe complanata) © Shawn Miller

The eel tail catfish is a venomous saltwater fish found in shallow water. They usually travel in large numbers at night. The spines deliver a painful sting.

First aid: Wash the area with soap and fresh water. Remove foreign material and control any bleeding. Soak the limb in hot water (113 F / 45 C) or use hot packs. Seek immediate medical treatment.

Eeltail catfish (Plotosus japonicus ) © Shawn Miller

Sea anemones deliver a painful sting with venomous tentacles. Below is a photograph of the vicious predator Dofleinia armata. I had these anemones in my aquarium for three years. I have seen them feeding on lionfish, scorpion fish, and venomous cone snails.

First aid: Rinse with vinegar. Remove tentacles with tweezers—Wash the area with salt water. Pain control if needed-hot water (113 F / 45 C) or use hot packs. Seek medical treatment if infection occurs.

Sea anenome (Dofleinia armata) © Shawn Miller

Branching anemone – Motobu, Okinawa © Shawn Miller

Branching anemones are found living in the sand. They deliver a nasty sting! I have personally experienced its painful sting.

Branching Anemone © Shawn Miller

The false stonefish ( Scorpaenopsis diabolus) is another master of camouflage. The spines deliver a painful sting with potent venom injected into the body. These fish usually warn you of their presence by flaring out their fins and spines.

First aid: Wash the area with soap and fresh water. Remove foreign material and control any bleeding. Soak the limb in hot water (113 F / 45 C) or use hot packs. Seek immediate medical treatment.

False stonefish © Shawn Miller

Stingrays are found in sandy areas near coral reefs. They have a serrated barb located at the base of the tail. Keep your distance to avoid any injuries!

First aid: Wash the area with soap and fresh water. Control the bleeding. If the barb is lodged in the body, do not remove it. Soak the limb in hot water (113 F / 45 C) or use hot packs. Seek immediate medical treatment! May require surgery to remove the barb.

Bluespotted stingray (Neotrygon kuhlii) © Shawn Miller

Spiny Devilfish ( Inimicus didactylus ) is a shallow water sand dweller. The spines deliver a painful sting with potent venom injected into the body. These fish usually warn you of their presence by flaring out their fins and spines.

First aid: Wash the area with soap and fresh water. Remove foreign material and control any bleeding. Soak the limb in hot water (113 F / 45 C) or use hot packs. Seek immediate medical treatment.

Spiny Devilfish © Shawn Miller

The titan triggerfish is the most aggressive fish I have encountered. It is territorial and will guard its nest aggressively. Attacks can be severe, leaving wounds requiring stitches. On several occasions, I pointed a dive light in their direction, and it scared them off. They do not like the directional light for some reason.

First aid: Control the bleeding and seek medical treatment. Monitor for signs of infection

Balistoides viridescens, Titan triggerfish © Shawn Miller

Titan trigger fish bite – Photo by Daisuke Uruchida

The black-spot triggerfish have threatened me on many occasions. It is smaller than the titan triggerfish but more aggressive. They usually will bite at the fins first.

Blackspot triggerfish © Shawn Miller

Barnacles do not bite, but they sure are sharp! These barnacles have cut me on a few occasions. The tides can drop significantly, leaving rocks and barnacles exposed. Injury can be avoided by simply wearing exposure protection.

First aid: Wash the area with soap and fresh water. Remove foreign material and control any bleeding. Monitor for signs of infection.

Barnacles © Shawn Miller

The needlefish is a very dangerous fish found in shallow water. They have narrow beaks with razor-sharp teeth used to catch prey. These needle-shaped fish can swim fast and jump out of the water. There have been cases of swimmers getting injured from impalement. Avoid shining your dive light on the surface of the water (where the water surface and air meet) during the night for an extended period.

First aid: Control the bleeding; if the fish is lodged in the body, leave it and seek medical treatment. Monitor for signs of infection

Needle-fish © Shawn Miller

The coral rabbitfish is a sought-after fish in Okinawa. Fishermen and free divers often get injured handling this venomous fish. The spines deliver a painful sting.

First aid: Wash the area with soap and fresh water. Remove foreign material and control any bleeding. Soak the limb in hot water (113 F / 45 C) or use hot packs. Seek immediate medical treatment.

Another popular fish with the Okinawan fisherman is the Surgeonfish. The Orange spine unicorn has a razor-sharp fin used for defense. Avoid handling this fish by the tail.

The Box Jellyfish is the most dangerous jellyfish found in the ocean. It delivers an unbearable sting with its venomous tentacles. These stings require immediate treatment and can be life-threatening.

First aid: Rinse with vinegar. Remove tentacles with tweezers—Wash the area with salt water. Pain control if needed-hot water (113 F / 45 C) or use hot packs. Seek medical treatment immediately.

Box Jellyfish ( Chironex yamaguchii ) under blue light

The man of war ( AKA Blue bottle jellyfish) is commonly seen during winter. I often find them washed ashore on local beaches. The tentacles deliver a painful sting.

First aid: Remove tentacles with tweezers—Wash the area with salt water. Pain control if needed-hot water (113 F / 45 C) or use hot packs. If symptoms get worse, Seek medical treatment.

Blue bottle

Mission

To Document and Preserve the Wildlife of the Ryukyu Islands

This site is also designed to help people identify the beautiful animals of Okinawa, basically to serve as an online nature reference guide. Please click on the donation link below if you would like to contribute to support my mission.

Your donations will help worldwide conservation initiatives and bring solutions to the pollution issues on our beautiful shorelines. Thank you for your support. Shawn M Miller.

Slow Down! – Let’s Protect The Okinawa Rail

Posted on August 26, 2014 by Admin11

The Okinawa rail is a flightless bird found in northern Okinawa. It is a protected species and declared a living natural treasure. It is currently listed by the International Union for Conservation of Nature (IUCN) as an endangered species. In 2012 populations of this endemic bird were estimated at 1500 by the Environment Ministry. As of October 2016 populations have declined to 480 mature individuals according to IUCN assessment.

Scientific name: Hypotaenidia okinawae

Common Name: Okinawa Rail

Distribution: Northern Okinawa

Habitat: Forests

Diet: Small insects, worms, snails and fruit.

Average Size: 31cm

Threats: Habitat loss and the threat of Jungle crows and mongoose.

The rail is often found feeding on the side of the road. It feeds on worms, snails, and insects.

Okinawa rail posing ( Hypotaenidia okinawae)

When defending its territory, the rail will become aggressive and flare its wings.

If you are lucky you can catch the Okinawa rail feeding on the fruit of the cherry tree.

Okinawa rail feeding ( Hypotaenidia okinawae)

They roost high above the ground to avoid predators like the habu snake.

Okinawa rail roosting ( Hypotaenidia okinawae)

In 2014 I stumbled upon Scientists handling an adult Okinawa rail in the wild.

Awareness signs are posted along the main roads in northern Okinawa for their protection. I think they should also include speed bumps in the designated crossing areas for the rails.

The speed limit is only 40km/h so watch your speed for the protection of the wildlife. The rails are often seen feeding on the side of the road.

I have observed these birds crossing the road on many occasions. They have no problems crossing when people are driving the speed limit. Speeding decreases your reaction time, slow down and pay attention to all crossing wildlife.

An Okinawa rail that was killed by a speeding motor vehicle on Route 2 in northern Okinawa.

What to do if you find an injured rail.

People often ask me what is the purpose of conservation photography? Having the ability to affect some form of positive change in the environment and make a global difference with the photographs. Hopefully, the images will inspire people to care more about nature and make a positive difference in the environment.

My Mission: To Document and Preserve the Wildlife of the Ryukyu Islands

This site is also designed to help people identify the beautiful animals of Okinawa, basically to serve as an online nature reference guide. If you would like to make a contribution to support my mission, please click on the donation link

Your donations will help worldwide conservation initiatives as well as bring solutions to the worldwide pollution issues on our beautiful shorelines. Thank you for your support. Shawn M Miller.

Light & Motion – The ultimate flashlight for wildlife photographers.

Posted on August 13, 2014 by Admin11

I have been using the Light & Motion Sola underwater lights for over two years now. I take them on all my adventures to include scuba diving, river trekking, caving and nature photography trips. These lights provide constant beautiful lighting and are extremely reliable, which is why they are the perfect light for me.

I recently purchased the Light & Motion Sola compact tray with the extension kit and one GoBe 700 wide light. I have been using this setup with the Canon 70D to document the wildlife in Okinawa. The flexible Loc-line arms are an awesome advantage. They are easy to move while having full control over the constant lighting.

Light & Motion field setup Photograph courtesy of Ross Gallardy

A photograph of a Ryukyu kajika frog in northern Okinawa using the Light & Motion field setup

Ryukyu Kajika frog ( Buergeria japonica )

The Light & Motion Sola 600 has a built in feature most people do not take advantage of. The light has a red light function which allows the user to get close to land and marine subjects without disturbing them. This red light is very effective and I highly recommend using it.

My underwater rig with the Light & Motion Sola 600 – Ikelite housing and strobes

The Light & Motion Nightsea Sola light can also be used on land. I am always searching for animals that fluoresce in the Yanbaru forest in northern Okinawa. You never know what you will find!

Light & Motion Sola Nightsea Blue light - Riukiaria falcifera

Light & Motion Sola Nightsea Blue light Millipede – Riukiaria falcifera

If you would like to know more about the Light & Motion Sola series visit. https://www.lightandmotion.com/choose-your-light/sola

Have a great day!

Facing extinction – Ishikawa’s Frog (Odorrana ishikawae)

Posted on June 13, 2014 by Admin11

Ishikawa’s frog (Odorrana ishikawae) is the most beautiful frog found in Japan. It is only found in northern Okinawa and currently on the endangered species list. It is one of the many endemic species facing extinction due to habitat loss. Ishikawa’s frog is a designated living national treasure of Okinawa.

Scientific name: Odorrana ishikawae
Distribution: Northern Okinawa-Japan
Habitat: Forest streams
Diet: Insects, worms, and millipedes
Average Size: 90mm -120mm

This is my favorite frog on Okinawa. I have only seen about a dozen in the last three years.

shikawa's Frog (Odorrana ishikawae) Yanbaru forest ,Okinawa

They live around mountain streams in the Yanbaru forest. They hide in cracks and crevices in the rocks making it hard to photograph them at times.

Ishikawa's Frog (Odorrana ishikawae) Yanbaru forest ,Okinawa

They are also masters of camouflage. The unique pattern helps them blend into the moss and leaves on the riverside.

The Ishikawa’s frog was featured in Amphibian Love – an artbook for the frogs. Artist Leah Jay created this book to show the beauty and fascinating variety of amphibians, and bring attention the the Amphibian Extinction Crisis.

If you are lucky you might find a blue Ishikawa’s frog. The blue morph is absolutely beautiful.

Blue Ishikawa's Frog (Odorrana ishikawae) © Shawn Miller

Blue Ishikawa's Frog (Odorrana ishikawae)

A large blue and green morph.

A juvenile Ishikawa’s frog searching for food. (Wide angle perspective)

herpetologists dream come true - the find

Sometimes they can be seen crossing the road!

Be careful and pay close attention to crossing wildlife.

People often ask me what is the purpose of conservation photography? Having the ability to affect some form of positive change in the environment and make a global difference with the photographs. Hopefully, the images will inspire people to care more about nature and make a positive difference in the environment.

My Mission: To Document and Preserve the Wildlife of the Ryukyu Islands

Your donations will help worldwide conservation initiatives as well as bring solutions to the worldwide pollution issues on our beautiful shorelines. Thank you for your support. Shawn M Miller.

Underwater Macro Photography with an Ikelite housing

Posted on June 9, 2014 by Admin11

I have always enjoyed shooting macro photography ever since I purchased my first camera. Underwater Macro photography is challenging due to currents, buoyancy control and back-scatter in the water. Below are a few underwater images photographed using the Canon 70D with a Canon EF 100 mm f/2.8 USM macro lens. The Camera and lens are enclosed in an Ikelite underwater housing. I am currently using one Ikelite DS-160 strobe along with one Ikelite DS-200 underwater.

Crowned Puffer (Canthigaster coronata) Okinawa, Japan

Honeycomb coral (Diploastrea heliopora) Okinawa- Japan

Crocea Clam (Tridacna Crocea) Okinawa-Japan

Bubble Coral (Plerogyra sinuosa) Okinawa-Japan

If you are living In Okinawa-Japan and would like to purchase any Ikelite product, I highly recommend Ikelite Military Sales. You can contact them directly on Facebook with the link below. I usually receive my orders within five to seven days. This is very fast shipping living overseas.

https://www.facebook.com/ikelite.camhousings

If you are having trouble with the initial set up of your underwater system and need assistance contact me.

Stay tuned for more underwater images with the Canon 70d.

Why I use an Ikelite Underwater Housing for the Canon EOS 70D Camera.

Posted on May 16, 2014 by Admin11

Ikelite Underwater Housing for Canon EOS 70D Camera

Ikelite housings are by far the most affordable and reliable DSLR underwater housings on the market. Ikelite has over forty five years experience with underwater housings and lighting systems. They produce the widest range of housing for Canon, Nikon, Sony and more. Ikelite Underwater Systems provide quick repair, fast shipping and outstanding customer service.

Benefits and features

Made in the USA
200 feet (60m) Depth Rating
Access to all important camera functions
Made from Corrosion proof polycorbonate
No guessing on the o-ring seal with a transparent housing
TTL/auto and manual strobe exposure modes

Ikelite Underwater Housing for Canon EOS 70D Camera – Okinawa

https://www.facebook.com/ikelite.camhousings

If you are having trouble with the initial set up of your underwater system and need assistance contact me.

Stay tuned for underwater images with the Canon 70d.

Have a great day!

Okinawa Nature Photography

沖縄自然写真 By Shawn Miller

Tag Archives: Okinawa nature Photography

Crabs With Beach Trash Homes – Okinawa, Japan

Canon EF 400mm f/5.6L USM Lens – Birds Of Okinawa

Marine Life Washed Ashore – Typhoon Vongfong

Using the Light & Motion Sola red light feature to document the marine life of Okinawa

Hazardous marine life of Okinawa by Shawn Miller

Slow Down! – Let’s Protect The Okinawa Rail

Light & Motion – The ultimate flashlight for wildlife photographers.

Facing extinction – Ishikawa’s Frog (Odorrana ishikawae)

Underwater Macro Photography with an Ikelite housing

Why I use an Ikelite Underwater Housing for the Canon EOS 70D Camera.