Ioana (Images)
LightNews LightNews
banner
ioanalogafatu.uk
Ioana (Images)
@ioanalogafatu.uk
120 followers 82 following 36 posts
A nature-loving person with a camera and a paintbrush. I am fortunate to have the Rutland Water Nature Reserve as my local patch, so I will be posting from my weekly visits.

In my spare time, I dabble in other artworks.

My personal a/c is @contrails.uk
Posts Replies Media Videos
ioanalogafatu.uk
My first ever attempt with soft pastels. #art #pastels #redarrow
A pastel drawing of a Red Arrows jet flying against a blue sky. The artwork depicts a Red Arrows aerobatic aircraft in flight, created with soft pastels. The jet is shown at an angle, with its red fuselage, white accents, and RAF roundels visible on the wings. The sky is textured with blue and white pastel strokes, suggesting motion and contrails in the background. The drawing has an expressive, slightly abstract style with bold black outlines emphasizing the shape of the plane. It is mounted on a white mat, with a shadow visible along the edge.
February 2, 2025 at 12:03 AM
ioanalogafatu.uk
Today at Rutland Water, UK 1st Feb 2025
#ukbirding #birds
A grey heron perched on a mossy tree branch, surrounded by a tangle of bare branches in the background. The heron has long, slender legs and elegant plumage in shades of grey, white, and black. Its sharp, yellow-orange beak points slightly forward, and its bright yellow eye is alert. The bird's head features a distinctive black stripe extending from above the eye to the back of the head, where it meets wispy, elongated feathers. The soft, layered feathers on its chest and wings create a textured appearance. The heron stands tall and poised, with its large feet gripping the rough bark of the branch, which is speckled with green moss. The background consists of blurred, intertwining branches, suggesting a natural woodland or riverside setting. A little egret stands on a mossy stone ledge near the edge of a body of water, with tangled reeds and branches in the background. The egret's pure white plumage is soft and feathery, with delicate wispy feathers extending from its back. It has a slender, slightly curved black beak and pale yellow eyes, giving it a sharp, focused expression. Its black legs contrast with its striking yellow feet, which are splayed on the damp stone surface. The background consists of still, reflective water with submerged branches and reeds, creating a natural wetland setting. The egret appears calm and slightly fluffed up, possibly due to a breeze ruffling its feathers. A water rail wades through a shallow, marshy area, surrounded by reeds and floating debris. The bird has a distinctive red-orange beak and dark, beady eyes. Its plumage is a mix of earthy brown tones with intricate black streaks on its back and wings, while its underparts are a contrasting slate-grey. Black-and-white barred feathers are visible on its flanks. Its long, slender legs and partially submerged feet navigate the wet, tangled environment. The background consists of dark, reflective water with scattered reeds and twigs, creating a natural, dense wetland setting. A blurred reed in the foreground partially obscures the bird, adding depth to the image. A male blackbird stands on damp grass, its glossy black feathers contrasting with the green surroundings. The bird's sleek plumage has a subtle sheen, and its bright yellow-orange beak and eye-ring stand out against its dark face. Its posture is alert, with its head slightly turned to the side, showing its sharp gaze. The feathers on its wings and tail are neatly layered, with faint iridescence visible in the light. The ground is a mix of fresh green grass, fallen leaves, and small patches of exposed soil, with tiny dewdrops clinging to the blades, suggesting a cool or damp day.
February 1, 2025 at 11:22 PM
ioanalogafatu.uk
After a few years of digital painting, I suddenly had the urge to create a real painting, so I bought some acrylics and this is my first attempt - A teal.

#acrylicpainting #art
The painting depicts a teal duck with a rich mix of colors, including a green head, rusty-orange cheeks, and a speckled brown and white body. The duck is shown gliding through a greenish-blue body of water, with its reflection visible beneath it. The brushstrokes give the water a textured, rippling effect. The artwork is housed in a simple light-colored frame with a white mat border.
January 29, 2025 at 1:13 AM
ioanalogafatu.uk
Today at Rutland Water, UK 18th Jan 2025
#ukbirding #birds

Male & female blackbird, Male & female Shoveler
A male blackbird with sleek black feathers and a bright orange-yellow beak stands on earthy ground scattered with small seeds and surrounded by twigs, rocks, and sparse greenery. A female blackbird with brown feathers and a slightly lighter brown beak stands on a forest floor covered in dry, crumpled leaves and fresh green grass shoots, surrounded by scattered twigs and foliage. A male shoveler duck with a glossy green head, white chest, chestnut-brown sides, and a distinctive wide, black spatula-shaped bill glides across still water, with subtle ripples reflecting its colorful plumage. A female shoveler duck with mottled brown and cream plumage and a broad, flattened bill glides across still water, creating gentle ripples that reflect its image.
January 18, 2025 at 10:17 PM
ioanalogafatu.uk
Today at Rutland Water, UK 11th Jan 2025
#ukbirding #birds
Rook, European robin, Eurasian teal, Greater spotted woodpecker
A black rook is perched on a thin, leafless tree branch, surrounded by other bare branches. Its glossy feathers shine faintly in the sunlight, and the background is a bright blue, cloudless sky. A European robin with a bright orange chest and white underbelly perches on a dark mound of earth amidst a vibrant green grassy field. The grass glistens with dew in the sunlight, and the robin's small frame and vivid plumage stand out against the natural background. A Eurasian teal floats on still water, showcasing its striking plumage. The male duck has a chestnut-colored head with an iridescent green stripe over its eye, a grayish patterned body, and a yellow and black tail patch. The water reflects the duck and ripples gently around it. A greater spotted woodpecker with black, white, and red plumage is captured in mid-flight among tree branches. Its wings are outstretched, and its body appears slightly blurred from motion. The surrounding branches are partially covered in yellow-green lichen, and the background is a clear blue sky.
January 11, 2025 at 10:54 PM
ioanalogafatu.uk
Today at Rutland Water, UK 4th Jan 2025 #ukbirding #birds
Blackbird, Coot, Great crested grebe, Tufted ducks
A close-up image of a male blackbird with sleek black plumage, a vivid orange-yellow beak, and a dark eye with a yellow ring. The bird is standing on damp ground scattered with wet, brown leaves, small stones, and grains of birdseed. The background is a mix of organic debris and twigs, with hints of green foliage in the blurred distance. A close-up image of a coot, a waterbird with smooth black plumage, a distinctive white frontal shield, and a pale pink beak, floating on still, greenish water. The bird has a strand of aquatic vegetation in its beak, and droplets of water cling to its feathers, creating small splashes around its head. The water surface reflects the bird and appears calm with gentle ripples. A great crested grebe, a waterbird with a sleek body and a pointed pinkish beak, is seen swimming on still water. Its plumage is dark brown on the back, with lighter streaks, and white on its chest and neck. The bird has a distinctive black crest on its head, which gives it a slightly spiky appearance. The water around it is pale and reflective, with faint ripples trailing behind the bird. A pair of tufted ducks are seen swimming on still water. Both birds have black plumage with subtle iridescent highlights, distinctive black tufted crests at the back of their heads, and striking yellow eyes. Their beaks are bluish-grey with a darker tip. The water around them is smooth and reflective, with faint ripples trailing behind as they move in close formation.
January 4, 2025 at 10:30 PM
ioanalogafatu.uk
Rutland Water 28th December 2024
#ukbirding #birds
A flock of Eurasian wigeons is gathered on a grassy area, with males displaying distinct reddish-brown heads and grayish bodies, and females showing mottled brown plumage. The ground is slightly uneven with patches of dry grass and scattered twigs. A female pheasant stands on the left side of a grassy field, displaying mottled brown and gray plumage, while a brown hare rests on the right, partially hidden among the grass. The background is blurred, showing faint outlines of taller grass and vegetation. A small stonechat bird, with mottled brown and orange plumage, perches on a slender, leafless branch. Its feathers appear slightly fluffed up, and the background is softly blurred, giving a muted, natural atmosphere. A marsh harrier with outstretched wings glides low over a wetland, silhouetted against the pale water below. The blurred background shows hints of vegetation and wooden stakes emerging from the water.
December 28, 2024 at 6:26 PM
ioanalogafatu.uk
Rutland Water 24th December 2024 #ukbirding #birds

Golden plover, Wigeon, Lapwing, Blackbird
A large flock of golden plovers is seen mid-flight, rising from a muddy island surrounded by a calm body of water. Some birds remain perched on the ground, while others flap their wings, creating a dynamic scene. In the background, tall golden reeds line the water's edge, with a green grassy field and trees beyond. A few white birds, including a gull, are visible amidst the plovers. A close-up of a male Eurasian wigeon swimming on still water. The bird has a rich chestnut-colored head with a distinctive creamy yellow stripe running from the forehead to the crown. Its body is gray with fine patterns, a white patch on the flank, and black tail feathers. Its beak is open slightly, as if calling. The water reflects gentle ripples around the bird. A northern lapwing is pictured standing in shallow water with sparse vegetation. Its wings are partially extended, revealing glossy black feathers with hints of green and purple iridescence, contrasting against its white underside. The bird's distinctive crest is visible on its head, and a clump of mud sits nearby on the right side of the frame. The water around it is calm with scattered reflections. A male blackbird is standing on a patch of wet grass. Its plumage is entirely black, with subtle iridescence visible on the wings. The bird's eye features a vivid yellow ring, and its bill is dark. Small droplets of dew can be seen on the grass around it.
December 24, 2024 at 6:56 PM
ioanalogafatu.uk
Today at Rutland Water (19-Dec-2024) #ukbirding #birds

Bullfinch, Mute swans, Goldeneye, Cormorant
A male bullfinch is perched among tangled branches, its vivid reddish-pink chest and black cap standing out against the muted, blurred background of leaves and stems. The bird's blue-gray back and black wings are partially visible, as it holds a seed in its beak. The soft light and surrounding foliage create a natural, serene setting. Three mute swans are captured in mid-flight as they take off from a shimmering blue lake. The swans' large white wings are fully extended, with one swan slightly ahead and higher than the other two. The water beneath them ripples and splashes where their feet have pushed off. In the background, golden reeds line the edge of the lake, contrasting with the deep blue of the water. The image conveys a sense of graceful motion and freedom. A male goldeneye duck is pictured swimming on a rippling blue lake. The duck has a glossy dark green head, a bright yellow eye, and a distinctive white oval patch near its black beak. Its body is primarily white, accented with black on its back, wings, and tail. The sunlight highlights the bird's sleek, colorful plumage and the gentle movement of the water around it. A cormorant is seen gliding smoothly on the water, its sleek black body and slightly iridescent feathers reflecting the warm sunlight. The bird has a distinctive yellow patch at the base of its slender, hooked beak and a greenish eye. The water around it mirrors the golden tones of the nearby reeds, creating a rippling pattern of light and shadow. The setting evokes a tranquil, natural atmosphere.
December 19, 2024 at 9:39 PM
ioanalogafatu.uk
Rutland Water. 17th December 2024 #mammals
Rabbit x2, DOmestic sheep, Grey squirrel
A rabbit with brown and grey fur sits upright in a grassy field, its large ears standing tall and its dark eyes wide and attentive. Its whiskers are faintly visible, and its small nose appears to twitch slightly. The surrounding grass is vibrant green with scattered twigs and thin branches crisscrossing the foreground. The rabbit's body is partially tucked into the grass, blending naturally with the environment. A rabbit with a mix of brown, grey, and tan fur is captured sitting upright in a grassy area. Its large ears stand tall, with one ear slightly tilted back, and its dark eye gazes attentively to the side. The rabbit's fur appears textured and dense, blending with the green and yellow hues of the surrounding grass. The background is filled with thick blades of grass and small twigs, creating a natural woodland setting. A close-up of a sheep's face shows its thick white wool and dark eyes gazing straight ahead. The sheep’s ears are tagged with a bright green tag on the left and a yellow tag on the right, standing out against its cream-colored fur. The texture of the wool is detailed, with bits of grass and dirt scattered throughout. The blurred grassy background adds to the natural farm setting. A grey squirrel is captured up close, with its paws held together near its mouth as if eating. Its fur is a mix of grey and brown, with white patches on its chest and paws. The squirrel's large, dark eyes gaze directly forward, and its ears are perked up. In the foreground, part of a weathered wooden surface with scattered seeds is visible, while the background consists of leaves and foliage in muted earthy tones.
December 17, 2024 at 10:50 PM
ioanalogafatu.uk
Rutland Water 17th December 2024 #birds #ukbirding
Curlew, Great white egret, Grey heron, Moorhen
A curlew, a large wading bird with a long, downward-curving bill, is seen flying low over a rippling body of water. Its wings are outstretched, displaying intricate feather patterns of brown and white streaks. The bird's elongated body and characteristic curved bill are prominent, as it glides gracefully in the air. The background consists of soft, muted water ripples in grayish tones. A great white egret soars through the air with its wings fully extended, showcasing its elegant white plumage. Its long, slender neck is slightly curved, and its sharp, orange-yellow beak points forward. The egret’s black legs trail behind, with its feet stretched out. The background features a dense tangle of muted green and brown tree branches, creating a natural and slightly blurred backdrop. A grey heron is seen peering through tall, green and brown grasses, its long neck stretched upward and head tilted slightly forward. The bird's sharp yellow beak points straight ahead, and its pale grey and white plumage contrasts with the earthy tones of the surrounding vegetation. The heron’s eye is keenly focused, and its darker head feathers add definition. The background consists of dense reeds, grasses, and vegetation in a marshy environment. A moorhen is captured standing on the ground, surrounded by green grass and leaves. The bird’s black plumage contrasts with its bright red facial shield and yellow-tipped beak. Its yellow-green legs and long toes are partially visible beneath its body. The moorhen’s gaze is focused straight ahead, and its body appears slightly rounded as it stands alert in the natural setting. The background is filled with blurred green foliage and scattered leaves.
December 17, 2024 at 10:46 PM
ioanalogafatu.uk
Rutland Water 14th Dec 2024 #birds #ukbirding
European Robin, Eurasian Wigeon, Common Redshank & a moorhen
A European robin with its distinct orange-red face and chest perches on a weathered, moss-covered wooden post. The robin's brownish-grey feathers contrast with the vibrant orange plumage, and its sharp black eyes and small beak are prominent as it gazes to the side. A blurred background of soft greens creates a natural setting, and a thin wire is visible near the base of the post. A bare twig extends from the left side of the frame. The lighting highlights the bird's features and the texture of the wooden post. A male Eurasian Wigeon swims in rippling blue water, its head a rich reddish-brown with a pale yellowish forehead. The bird's body is covered in smooth grey plumage with a prominent white patch on its side, and its black-tipped tail feathers extend slightly above the water. The water reflects the duck's body, creating a soft mirrored image. The Wigeon’s small black beak and dark eyes contrast with the vibrant tones of its head and the muted greys of its wings and back. A Common Redshank with greyish-brown plumage and bright orange-red legs stands upright on a small muddy bank beside a body of water. Its slender, slightly upturned orange bill with a black tip points forward, and its dark eye appears alert. The surrounding area is filled with tufts of green grass and reeds, partially submerged in the reflective water, creating a natural wetland habitat. Sunlight highlights the bird and casts a subtle reflection of its legs in the calm water below. A Moorhen is captured in close-up, showcasing its glossy black plumage, a bright red facial shield, and a yellow-tipped beak. The bird's dark eye is sharp and contrasts against its sleek feathers, which have a gradient of black, brown, and white near the wing edges. The background consists of damp reeds and vegetation in soft focus, suggesting a wetland habitat. Sunlight highlights the bird's feathers and face, creating a rich texture and emphasizing its vibrant colors.
December 15, 2024 at 3:33 PM
ioanalogafatu.uk
A friendly couple I met on my walk yesterday. #mammals
Two white sheep are walking towards the camera on a muddy, grassy path. The sheep on the left has small curved horns and a pink marking on its wool, while the one on the right has a slightly larger build and colored ear tags. The background features a mix of green foliage and trees, creating a rural setting.
December 1, 2024 at 11:58 AM
ioanalogafatu.uk
Today at Rutland Water, UK #birds #ukbirding (2/2)
Collared dove, Moorhen, Blue tit, House sparrow
A collared dove rests on a patch of damp ground covered with green grass, scattered leaves, and twigs. Its soft beige-grey plumage appears smooth and slightly fluffed, with a distinct black collar marking on the back of its neck. The dove's delicate features include a slender beak and a subtle, pale pink tint around its eye. Nearby, a mossy rock adds texture to the scene, blending with the natural, earthy surroundings. A moorhen is seen walking on the forest floor, surrounded by green plants, twigs, and dry leaves. Its sleek black feathers have a subtle bluish sheen, while its bright red beak, tipped with yellow, adds a striking contrast. Its long yellow-green legs are partially visible as it moves through the vegetation. The background mixes earthy tones and vibrant greenery, creating a natural, dynamic setting. A blue tit is perched on a slender branch, displaying its colourful feathers: a bright yellow chest, a striking blue cap, and white cheeks framed by a dark line running across its face. Its tiny claws grip the branch as it leans slightly forward, appearing alert. The background is softly blurred with muted tones of green and brown, creating a peaceful woodland setting. A house sparrow is perched on a slender branch, showcasing its earthy-toned feathers. The bird has a brown crown, a grey underside, and black streaks on its wings. Its tiny black bib and sharp beak add detail to its modest appearance. The background is softly blurred with shades of green and hints of brown, evoking a natural and serene outdoor setting.
November 30, 2024 at 8:20 PM
ioanalogafatu.uk
Today at Rutland Water, UK #birds #ukbirding (1/2)
Grey heron, Kestrel, Canada goose, Pheasant
A grey heron is standing on a patch of dry, golden grass near the edge of a rippling body of water. Its long, slender neck is patterned with dark streaks, and its focused, direct gaze has piercing yellow eyes. The bird's feathers are a mix of grey and white tones, and dark markings are on its back and wings. The foreground features scattered dry twigs and plants, while the background shows the calm, reflective surface of the water. A kestrel, a small bird of prey, is perched on the end of a leafless tree branch against a soft, pale blue sky. The bird's plumage features a warm brown tone with darker streaks across its chest and back, while its sleek, pointed wings and tail are patterned with bold black markings. Its yellow talons grip the branch firmly as it tilts its head downward, appearing focused and alert. The surrounding branches are bare, with subtle patches of moss adding texture. A Canada goose's head and long black neck emerge above a vibrant grassy foreground, its distinctive white cheek patch standing out against its dark plumage. The background is softly blurred, featuring muted tones of tall grass and vegetation, adding a natural, serene atmosphere to the scene. The goose's beak is slightly open, suggesting it might be grazing or vocalising. This extreme close-up captures the intense gaze of a pheasant, with its bright red facial patches surrounding piercing, dark eyes. Its head features a glossy green sheen with specks of white, leading to a pointed, pale beak. The background reveals its intricate feather pattern, a striking mix of warm brown, black, and golden hues, forming a textured mosaic across its chest and body. The detail highlights the bird's bold colours and intricate plumage.
November 30, 2024 at 8:19 PM
ioanalogafatu.uk
Fairy of the day - The Emperor #fairy #art
A digital illustration of a fairy-like emperor with pale yellow, translucent insect wings detailed with dark veins. The figure has pointed elf-like ears, short dark hair, and a contemplative expression. They wear an ornate gold crown with jagged spires, polished bronze pauldrons, and a blue and white flowing garment. The emperor holds a slim scepter in one hand, exuding an air of quiet authority against a neutral gray background.
November 30, 2024 at 8:26 AM
ioanalogafatu.uk
Goldeneye, Rutland Water, UK (Nov 2023) #ukbirding #birds
A common goldeneye duck is seen floating on calm blue water, its head glistening with water droplets. The bird features a striking black head with a greenish sheen, a bright yellow eye, and a white patch near its bill. Its body is predominantly white with dark wings, and the reflection of the duck is visible in the rippled surface of the water. The scene captures the tranquil beauty of the bird in its natural habitat.
November 26, 2024 at 8:46 PM
ioanalogafatu.uk
Thought I’d try something new: 1-minute cameo videos of birds at my local reserve. Here’s a dunnock to start with. #birds #ukbirding
youtu.be/qZbXJDRsAQI
Dunnock (Prunella modularis)
YouTube video by Ioana Logafatu
youtu.be
November 25, 2024 at 12:37 AM
ioanalogafatu.uk
Common moorhen at Rutland Water, UK (Feb 2023)
#ukbirding #birds
A close-up image of a Common Moorhen standing on a patch of grass. The bird has dark, glossy feathers with hints of iridescent blue on its body, a red frontal shield extending into its bright yellow-tipped beak, and slender green legs with large toes. The background is a mix of blurred greenery and natural ground textures, highlighting the bird's sharp features. Photographed at Rutland Water.
November 24, 2024 at 6:45 PM
ioanalogafatu.uk
Osprey being mobbed by a lapwing - Rutland Water, UK May 2023 #birds #ukbirding #osprey #lapwing
An Osprey and a Lapwing are captured mid-flight against a clear blue sky. The Osprey, on the left, is larger with pale underparts, dark markings on its wings, and a distinct dark stripe across its face, gliding with its wings fully extended. On the right, the smaller Lapwing, with its striking black and white plumage and rounded wings, appears to be aggressively mobbing the Osprey, attempting to chase it away. The scene illustrates a dramatic interaction between the two birds.
November 23, 2024 at 10:51 AM
ioanalogafatu.uk
Long-tailed tit, Rutland Water, UK (June 2023)

#ukbirding #birds
A long-tailed tit with soft gray, white, and brown plumage sits perched on a mossy tree branch, its distinctively long tail feathers trailing behind. The bird's round body and slightly tilted head give it a curious appearance, with its reddish-brown eyes standing out. The background is a lush blur of green foliage, adding depth to the scene.
November 21, 2024 at 9:46 PM
ioanalogafatu.uk
Fairy of the day - The fool #art #fairy
A digital illustration of a cheerful fairy floating against a light blue background. She has long, golden hair adorned with a sparkling, textured crown, and her large, delicate wings are translucent with golden veining. Her flowing dress features a vibrant patchwork of pastel colors, and she is barefoot, with arms raised as if mid-dance or flight. Her expression is joyful, with bright blue eyes and a wide smile.
November 21, 2024 at 8:54 AM
ioanalogafatu.uk
Badger, Rutland Water, UK June 2023 #mammals #addMam
This badger was wandering around during the middle of the day (13:30), and I just happened to be in the right place at the right time.
youtu.be/HFwSxI0eb1Y
Badger going for a swim
YouTube video by Ioana Logafatu
youtu.be
November 21, 2024 at 1:23 AM
ioanalogafatu.uk
Great white egret, Rutland Water, UK October 2024
#ukbirding #birds #addBirder
A great white egret with sleek white feathers and a long, pointed yellow bill stands in shallow, calm water, its body reflected clearly on the surface. The bird's neck is gracefully curved as it looks downward, possibly searching for food. The water is a soft blue-gray, rippled slightly, and dotted with subtle dark patches, suggesting a serene natural setting.
November 21, 2024 at 12:24 AM
ioanalogafatu.uk
European Robin, Rutland Water, UK (Taken Feb 2024)
#ukbirding #birds
A close-up of a European robin sitting on a thin branch. The bird's vivid orange breast contrasts with its soft brown and grey feathers. It looks slightly to the left, with its small beak closed and a sharp, black eye standing out. The background is blurred with muted green and brown tones, suggesting a natural outdoor setting.
November 19, 2024 at 10:13 PM