Bird news from Mathew Poll, Young Ho Kim, with David and Heather McDowell
A nice mix of fog and sun, for a full day of showing visiting birders around the island. In an evergreen forest near the northeast coast, we got good looks at a Eurasian Jay, and great close views of a Japanese Paradise Flycatcher. Nearby, a Common Cuckoo was seen, while several Lesser Cuckoos were heard only, while three late Upland Buzzards were a surprise circling overhead.
At Hado, a single Eurasian Wigeon and Black-faced Spoonbill were reminders of the winter. At least two dozen Black-winged Stilts, and two Black-tailed Godwit were also notable at Hado. Nearby, a Chinese Egret was a great treat to watch, as it stalked fish close to the coastal road.
At the Arboretum it looks like the female White-bellied Green Pigeon has not returned this year, although Young Ho spotted a male near the northeast coast about a month ago.
Black-winged Stilt Himantopus himantopus