Ryukyu Scops Owl, Ruddy Kingfisher, and Crested Serpent Eagle (video)（May 17, 2024） Bird Reports List--Wild bird photography and birdwatching on Okinawa Main Island and the Yaeyama Islands (Ishigaki Island, Iriomote Island, Taketomi Island, and more)

Ryukyu Scops Owl, Ruddy Kingfisher, and Crested Serpent Eagle (video)

May 17, 2024

I confirmed incubation beginning at a fifth Ryukyu Scops Owl site. The Ruddy Kingfisher female near my home has not been seen much lately, so she may also be incubating.

The rescued Crested Serpent Eagle, Mitchan, keeps getting driven off by the territorial male in this area, but comes back undeterred and keeps searching for food. I hope she builds up her strength properly this summer, gets through the winter, and grows into a fine adult.

The Lesser Whistling Duck is still present. Its reactions to passing vehicles and crows have settled down and its daily routine has become predictable, so a long stay looks likely. If it summers over, it will be a treat for many birders.

Ryukyu Scops Owl

A male Ryukyu Scops Owl keeping watch over the nest. This is the third consecutive year breeding at the same site.

Ruddy Kingfisher

A Ruddy Kingfisher in the neighbourhood. It made an aerial catch of a moth that passed right in front of it, but then spat it out and discarded it.

Crested Serpent Eagle / Ringed / flagged bird

"Mitchan," a rescued female Crested Serpent Eagle, swallowing a Swamp Eel. It has become one of her favourite feeding spots, but fights with the resident territorial individual are a constant occurrence here.