Black-winged Kite, Siberian Peregrine, juvenile Crested Serpent Eagle and more
The juvenile Black-winged Kite seems to have finally become independent recently. Black-winged Kites on Ishigaki breed multiple times a year, so the population keeps growing. The Peregrine Falcon pair that wintered here last year has returned to the same spot again this year. An Upland Buzzard is also in the same area, keeping the Eurasian Coots and herons on edge. A nearby juvenile Crested Serpent Eagle looked startled as the two Peregrines chased it around.
The two Tundra Swans are still present. Around ten Northern Lapwings — all juveniles — have arrived. The rice paddies are busy with Marsh Sandpipers, Common Greenshanks, Common Redshanks, Wood Sandpipers, Northern Shovelers and Eurasian Teals. The first Tufted Duck of the season was also confirmed.
A Black-winged Kite juvenile with zero wariness. Given the location and timing, it may be the individual that was being fed in mid-air by a parent bird previously.
Female Peregrine Falcon. Used to be called the subspecies Siberian Peregrine, but it has been lumped into the subspecies calidus.
Juvenile Crested Serpent Eagle. It looked annoyed at being harassed by a pair of Peregrine Falcons.
Adult male Brown Shrike. A very beautiful individual.
Two Tundra Swans. These individuals moved over from Iriomote Island. They have been moving between the dam lake, the coast, and the rice paddies.
A flock of Northern Lapwings arrived — about 10 birds, all juveniles.
Adult winter-plumage Marsh Sandpiper.
The first Tufted Ducks of the season. They were always moving around as a pair.
Male Northern Shoveler. Possibly the most numerous duck on Ishigaki Island.