Chinese Blackbird Arrives
The Chinese Blackbird, harbinger of spring on Ishigaki, has arrived. I heard its call nearby as well, so it seems multiple birds are staying. Brown-headed Thrush, Pale Thrush, and Dusky Thrush migration also appears to be approaching its peak — small flocks can be found in patches of grassland in coastal settlements and similar spots.
I heard a Hooded Crane was staying in the north of the island, so I went to have a look. It seemed to favour a field prepared for sugarcane planting, with a pineapple plantation as a backdrop.
Cinnamon Bittern and Purple Heron are also full of vitality with the feel of spring in the air.
A Common Blackbird turned up in a good patch of habitat. Looks like it may stay a while.
A flock of five Japanese Thrushes in a small grassland. Completely focused on foraging, not wary at all. Judging by how hungry they seem, they must have just arrived.
I was able to observe them up close at eye level.
I think a photo of Common Cranes with a pineapple field as the backdrop is something quite rare.
A Ryukyu Bittern appeared at the paddy bund.
A Purple Heron appeared right in front of the Ryukyu Bittern above.
A Common Snipe showing only its upper half.
From around late February, Common Ringed Plover arrivals have increased considerably. Already in summer plumage.
White Wagtails heading north are also passing through Ishigaki Island.
The overwintering Grey Wagtails are well into their moult, and have started gathering loosely in small groups. Migration must be approaching.
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