Birds of Our Observations
Let yourself be inspired by our fascinating observations from the past years and discover the diverse world of nature. Here, we regularly present a compilation of our latest discoveries and observations.
If you are looking for a specific bird, you can find it using the search field:
Terek Sandpiper (Xenus cinereus)
Terek Sandpiper - migratory bird, wader, unmistakable character. What sets it apart, where it lives, and why you can encounter it in Japan.
Azure-winged magpie (Cyanopica cyanus)
The azure-winged magpie stands out with its azure-blue wings and long tail. Learn all about its appearance, lifestyle, distribution, and behavior in Japan.
Brent Goose (Branta bernicla)
The Brent Goose (*Branta bernicla*) impresses with its striking black-and-white appearance and calm demeanor as a winter visitor along Japan’s coastlines…
Harlequin duck (Histrionicus histrionicus)
With its bold contrast plumage and agile diving, the Harlequin Duck (Histrionicus histrionicus) is a fascinating winter visitor to Japan’s rugged coastlines—rare, but unforgettable…
Carrion crow (Corvus corone)
The Carrion Crow (*Corvus corone*) is an intelligent and adaptable urban dweller. From rooftops to rice fields, this black-feathered bird thrives alongside humans across Japan…
Long-tailed duck (Clangula hyemalis)
With its snow-white plumage and striking long tail, the Long-tailed Duck is a fascinating winter visitor to Japan’s northern coasts and bays—built for the icy seas…
Snow bunting (Plectrophenax nivalis)
With its snowy-white plumage and bright yellow beak, the Snow Bunting is a fascinating winter visitor to Japan's northern regions…
Dusky thrush (Turdus eunomus)
With its characteristic speckled plumage and rust-colored wing patches, the dusky thrush (*Turdus eunomus*) is a striking winter visitor to Japan, often seen in gardens and fields…
Black-necked Grebe (Podiceps nigricollis) Japan
The Black-necked Grebe (*Podiceps nigricollis*) is a striking winter visitor to Japan. With its ruby-red eyes and golden head tufts, it is a small but elegant diving bird…
Meadow bunting (Emberiza cioides)
The Meadow Bunting (Emberiza cioides) is a typical songbird of Japan’s open landscapes – musically gifted, unassuming in behavior, and an indicator of traditional farmland health…
Bull-headed shrike (Lanius bucephalus)
The Bull-headed Shrike (Lanius bucephalus) is a small but formidable predator among Japan’s birds. Known for its dark facial mask and prey-storing behavior, this shrike combines songbird looks with raptor-like tactics…
Falcated duck (Mareca falcata)
The Falcated Duck (Mareca falcata) is a striking winter visitor to Japan. With its shimmering green head and curved shoulder plumes, it brings elegance and color to quiet winter waters…
Sandhill crane (Antigone canadensis)
The Sandhill Crane (Antigone canadensis* is a rare winter visitor to Japan. With a red forehead and grey plumage, it sometimes joins crane flocks in Izumi, Kyushu – a fascinating sight for birdwatchers…
Red-breasted Merganser (Mergus serrator)
The Red-breasted Merganser (*Mergus serrator*) is a winter visitor to Japan's lakes and coasts. A specialist fish hunter with a wild crest and hooked red bill – sleek, silent, and spectacular…
White-naped crane (Antigone vipio)
The White-naped Crane (Antigone vipio) winters in southern Japan. A graceful migratory bird with a white neck stripe, it is globally threatened but strictly protected in Japan…
Brown-headed Thrush (Turdus chrysolaus)
The Brown-headed Thrush (Turdus chrysolaus) is a quiet but distinctive migratory bird in Japan. Known for its chestnut head and seasonal shifts between the north and south…
Far Eastern curlew (Numenius madagascariensis)
The Far Eastern Curlew (*Numenius madagascariensis*) is a globally threatened migratory bird with an impressively long bill. A rare but regular visitor to Japan’s coasts…
White-cheeked Starling (Spodiopsar cineraceus)
The White-cheeked Starling (Spodiopsar cineraceus) is a common urban bird in Japan. Recognizable by its pale cheeks and loud call, it thrives in both cities and countryside…
Eurasian wigeon (Mareca penelope)
The Eurasian Wigeon (*Mareca penelope*) is one of Japan’s most common winter ducks. Known for its soft plumage and high-pitched call, it brings life to Japan’s waterscapes each winter…
Japanese cormorant (Phalacrocorax capillatus)
The Japanese Cormorant (*Phalacrocorax capillatus*) is a familiar coastal bird in Japan. A skilled diver, colony breeder, and participant in traditional Ukai fishing…