We wanted to stay at our favorite hot spring/campsite in Kumamoto, which is close to the reclaimed land area called Yokoshima Kantaku. We had to leave the snow-locked mountains with a huge D-tour and arrived late afternoon. The Harriers were flying. Returning to their roost it seemed. 2 males and 2 or 3 females.
Male Hen Narrier, ハイイロチュウヒ ♂
2 females ♀
I took lots of photos but ended up discarding most of them. Their was simply not enough light.
The next morning we returned early and found many buntings in the reeds. Not a good omen for the people who want to see raptors. But I was happy.
Little Bunting, コホオアカ
Chestnut-eared Bunting, ホオアカ
The ripe was so cold on my feet. I felt for Lady Redstart, ジョウビタキ ♀
Mid-morning we moved to another spot, where a Kestrel, チョウゲンボウ was shaking up a field with pipits
Richard's Pipit, マミジロタヒバリ 2 of the 4 birds I saw and heard
It was a good occasion to learn their calls
Red-throated Pipit, ムネアカタヒバリ male ♂
With all the pipits around this bird had me confused. But when I looked closely at the bill I realized... Chestnut-eared Bunting, ホオアカ ♀
Thanks for your help, Mr. H!
We met up with some birders that we had met 12 years ago and it felt like yesterday.
Great to see you, K and T!
While we looked at the small birds a male Hen Harrier, ハイイロチュウヒ ♂flew by.
Our lucky day!
No comments:
Post a Comment