A Christmas birdwatching trip ended up being quite productive in various ways. Starting at Seongsan, plenty of interesting winter ducks were around but with strong cold winds it was difficult to stay long enough to search the whole area. Common Goldeneyes, Greater Scaup, and Black-necked Grebes were pleasant highlights.
We moved onto Hado-ri Wetland afterwards with hopes there would be a bit more shelter from the wind. While the wetland had plenty more ducks than a visit a couple weeks ago, the wind really forced the birds to take shelter or stay quiet. Regardless, both Eurasian and Black-faced Spoonbills were seen along with three Taiga Bean Geese. Northern Lapwings were cautiously feeding along the rocks, and a single Black-faced Bunting was seen and heard briefly. The star of the show though ended up being a very close Long-billed Dowitcher seen feeding among the ducks and lapwings.
A final stop at east-central Jeju before the weather turned was worthwhile. A large group of Rooks were found perched on wires and some trees taking a break from the strong winds. Mixed in were a few Large-billed Crows and one gorgeous Daurian Jackdaw. Weather conditions didn’t allow for nice photography but view was clear and enjoyed for a sustained period.
