Nial Moores with Owen and Sally Cole and Park Meena
In sweltering heat (probably reaching a humid 34C at midday at Junam), a day of enjoyable local birding in a wide range of habitats that included sea coast, the estuary, freshwater reservoirs, and mixed forest.
In addition to seeing juveniles of many species, species of note included four Grey-tailed Tattler on rocks at Igidae; a Black Kite in heavy tail moult; excellent views of both Japanese Pygmy Woodpecker and Grey-headed Green Woodpecker; several Pacific Swift and several dozen Barn Swallow (most of the latter at the Nakdong); eventual views of Black-naped Oriole, feeding in the same tree as a dozen or so White-cheeked Starling; many (100+) Vinous-throated Parrotbill; and rarest in the national context, two Pheasant-tailed Jacana heard and seen at the Junam Reservoirs.
Japanese Pygmy Woodpecker Dendrocopos kizuki © Nial Moores
Grey-headed Woodpecker Picus canus © Nial Moores (adult top; juvenile below)
Junam Reservoir © Nial Moores
Nakdong Estuary © Nial Moores
Hot-weather birding at the Nakdong Estuary © Nial Moores
This was certainly one of the highlights of our trip to Korea. Dr Moores’s enthusiasm and expertise was absolutely fantastic and turned each sighting into an enjoyable experience despite the heat! He would hear the birds and then lead us to them! Truly the “bird whisperer” of Korea! Ms Park Meena, Birds Korea’s National Coordinator, was the perfect hostess and her vast patience made our day that much more enjoyable. We would definitely recommend that you contact Dr Moores if you want to experience the birds of Korea in a meaningful way!