“We saw many Grey-capped Greenfinchs (Carduelis sinica kawarahiba), which are also called the Oriental Greenfinch. Brazil (2018) states that the C. s. kawarahiba subspecies breeds in Hokkaido. The birds shown in above and below are males with a clear grey … Continued
“Eastern Crowned Warblers (Phylloscopus coronatus) are not easy to see on migration or at their breeding grounds (above, below). But at least in summer they make a variety loud calls and songs and can be located. “Below is a sonogram … Continued
Plantain Squirrels (Callosciurus notatus) are common in Singapore’s urban gardens, feeding on flower nectar, fruits, figs, palm shoots and even birdlings. When danger lurks, as when a Reticulated Python is nearby, it gives out its characteristic call LINK. This squirrel, … Continued
An earlier post on the Siberian Rubythroat (Calliope calliope) encountered in Hokkaido can be viewed HERE. “The male Siberian Rubythroat was very vocal, possibly due to the breeding season. The song is rich, strong, complex and varied. In addition some … Continued
“Snipe tend to be secretive and quiet while on migration but they are very visible and vocal at their breeding grounds, especially during courtship. The Latham’s Snipe (Gallinago hardwickii) was easy to spot during our trip to Japan in June … Continued
“No visit to East Hokkaido would be complete without watching the iconic and endangered Red-crowned Cranes (Grus japonensis). In Japan, the Tancho or Red-crowned Crane (丹頂鶴) is considered a mystical creature that lives for a thousand years and hence represents … Continued
“This Eurasian or Common Cuckoo (Cuculus canorus canorus) was encountered and heard more often than seen. It was surreal (despite knowing it) to hear the bird call out with the classical ‘cuckoo-clock cuckoo’ calls of ‘cuck-oo’ or ‘cu-coo’. After hearing … Continued
“The commonest babbler to encounter locally is the Pin-striped Tit-babbler (Macronus gularis gularis). I watched a pair for some time as they foraged in the morning at the fringe of this forest reserve (below). “I personally enjoy listening to the … Continued
“With advancing age I find that hearing the calls of some of these species with high pitched notes is difficult for me, the Crimson Sunbird (Aethopyga siparaja siparaja) included. I had good observations of this male and was even able … Continued
“As I mentioned earlier, these lovely birds are not hard to find as the song is distinctive and loud; we identified at least 6 different birds within a large forest area. Peter Clement, Chris Rose, Robins and Chats, Helm Identification … Continued
