1. Plain Flowerpecker, 纯色啄花鸟, 純色啄花鳥, Dicaeum minullum, ムジハナドリ, SEPAH-PUTERI KECIL BIASA
– plain overall
update 20240110
– so many of dull fellow, meet up minimum 3 birds in 2-3 hour. very active but this bird just stay there for so long
– 一个早上，尽然遇上好几只。通常非常活跃，可是今天2只站很久
20240105, Bukit Tinggi, Pahang, Malaysia
#####
202205
– the bird still active, even not so colorful but it is a lifer for guest is always a good bird
– 还好还在，虽然很普通的鸟（鸟如其名）。可是还是客人新鸟种。
202205, Fraser Hill, Selangor, Malaysia
update 202204
– a plain color bird but as same as other flowerpecker, small and active
– 鸟如其名。纯色，可是还是一样的活跃。
202105, Fraser Hill, Selangor, Malaysia
update 202112
– just another casual birding day and see this plain and small bird
– 没目标的一天，见到这淡+小的鸟。陪我过了30钟。
202112, Selangor, Malaysia
update 202105
– a pale bird, that not that common. but 2 days in a row saw 4 birds in different locations.
– overall pale brown-light green, with no mark on the face.
– 如名。純色。蠻不起眼的小鳥。
202105, Fraser Hill, Selangor, Malaysia
#
Plain Flowerpecker, 纯色啄花鸟,純色啄花鳥, Dicaeum minullum,ムジハナドリ, SEPAH-PUTERI KECIL BIASA
– common, found near the forest edge, parks, mangrove, sub-montane etc
– with bright orange mostly front-underpart
update 202508
It’s a very common but still incredibly beautiful bird of Malaysia. However, because of its small size, it’s always a challenge to get a really good photo of it.
这是马来西亚非常常见但又很漂亮的一种鸟。不过因为体型小，总是很难拍到理想的照片。
202507, Fraser Hill, Pahang, Malaysia
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update 202011
3. Black-sided Flowerpecker, 黑胁啄花鸟, 黑脅啄花鳥,Dicaeum monticolum, ボルネオノドアカハナドリ, SEPAH-PUTERI GUNUNG BORNEO
– montane Borneo endemic
update 202504
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update 202407
– it is always co-operative for us, this time even lower and closer for us. While we busy to get good view of the Bornean Treepie. This bird just perch few feet from us and lets everyone has good view
– after long, again using R5 for this long trip, hope I change my view on this camera.
– 通常都很合作的鸟，今天竟然站离我们几尺而已。没个人都看的很好。
– 好几年没再认真用佳能R5，这次会在婆罗洲用上。希望会对它有点改观。
202407, KNP, Sabah, Malaysia
#####
update 202405
– it is a raining day, this common montane endemic just stand there for so long for us .. lovely Borneo endemic
– 在下雨天，这婆罗洲特有种。很乖的站很久让我们拍够够。
202405, KNP, Sabah, Malaysia
#####
update 202309
– an endemic that not that difficult but beautiful to be seen …
– common lowland small flowerpecker, overall yellow
Update 202508
There were plenty of Green Broadbills in the national park—we heard and saw several during just 1.5 days of birding. This particular pair stood out, as they came in close to us, looking curious and unbothered.
– similar look as Borneo endemic Yellow-rumped Flowerpecker
update 202509
The forest has been unusually quiet for the past two days — even common species like bulbuls, flowerpeckers, and sunbirds are nowhere to be seen. Thankfully, this bird was one of the few that came low and close, feeding calmly without being bothered by our presence.
– it is almost one of the rareness bird to be seen in Malaysia, I dont have chance see this bird too much every year.. but it is such a good experience seeing this from Peninsula Malaysia and Borneo within 1 month ..
– one of the main reason visit KLIAS forest reserve, Sabah …
– rare, or always overlook brown canopy small flowerpecker
update 202311
– at the same fruiting tree, we had both dull brown-white flowerpecker. One with dark eye and the other pale eye .. but need to show customers the Brown-backed so I missed the chance again 🙁
– 同一棵果树。见到两只淡淡的啄花鸟。一只眼暗色，另一只“白”可惜又错过拍哪只褐背啄花鸟。
202311, Merapoh, Kelantan, Malaysia
####
update 202301
– a rare occasion where more than 10 of this species bird on same fruiting tree
– Borneo endemic, which very similar to Crimson-breasted Flowerpecker which is rare in Borneo.
– different by the rumped and breast “red”
update 202407
– a raining afternoon, almost lost full half day but before we call it a day. Got few birds gave us some good view include this Borneo endemic. a pair stay low and long for us.
– 几乎整个下午都下雨，看是没什么机会。我还是叫大家到有花的地方等雨停，还好好几只不错的鸟出现。包括这只婆罗洲特有种。
202407, RDC, Sepilok, Sabah
#####
update 202405
– active and common Borneo endemic in certain places like Sabah RDC, Danum Valley BRL
– for the group this is the only bird that keep seeing again and again in very close distance.
– 在婆罗洲, 西必洛,丹浓谷保护区 都不难拍到这鸟。
– 在上一团，这可是见最多的婆罗洲特有种。还要是特别近距离的。
202405, Danum Valley, Sabah, Malaysia
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update 202012
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9. Scarlet-backed Flowerpecker, 朱背啄花鸟, 朱背啄花鳥, Dicaeum cruentatum, セアカハナドリ, SEPAH-PUTERI BELAKANG MERAH
– common flowerpecker for Malaysia
– urban, mangrove, and 2nd forest
– 非常普通的啄花鳥
update 202405
– one of pretty common flowerpecker but not sure what happen. keep miss this bird recently and finally have this again with good view.
– 慢普通的，可是最近终是见不到这鸟。终于还是飞来我们面前让我们拍好好。
202405, Kuala Tahan, Pahang, Malaysia
#####
update 202103
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10. Fire-breasted Flowerpecker, 红胸啄花鸟, 红胸啄花鸟, Dicaeum ignipectu, ハナドリ, SEPAH-PUTERI GUNUNG BIASA
– a montane flowerpecker which male having overall blue with “ref-fire” on breast
One of the most common birds at Fraser’s Hill, often seen feeding around flowers. Like other flowerpeckers, it’s small and constantly on the move—making it a fun but challenging subject to photograph.
– a common, tiny and active bird found Fraser Hill.
– with new camera AI technology, capture such a active and tiny bird picture with much easier compare to old DLSR time. Anyone want share how you shoot active (AF)and small bird with yours’ Camere ?
– as other’s flowerpecker, good to find near some flowering tree
– 蘇拉威西特有種
update 202310
– our simple no target day at Tomohon, come across this best spot for all the small birds .. good photography spot … so close and good lighting and background
A tiny, short-tailed songbird. Unmistakable male is dark with a red cap, breast spot, and rump. Underparts white, with a dark vertical line on the belly and white tufts on sides of breast. Female is gray, with red confined to rump; this color patterning is diagnostic. Juvenile resembles female, but lacks the red rump. Singles or pairs inhabit the upper reaches of hill and montane forest and forest edges. Restricted to Sulawesi. Gives thin, high-pitched “tzeet” and “kwit” call notes. Song starts with “tzeet-tzeet” phrases, then descends into a rapid warble.
[ebird]
update 202307
– a lovely and beautiful bird to be seen, previously saw it high up and finally have it low and beautiful view
– anyone want join me Oct 2023 for Photography trip to Sulawesi ?
– sometimes can be overlooked Broad-billed Sandpiper
– Medium-sized wader with a long, slightly downcurved bill. Slightly larger than Dunlin, with the longer and finer bill, longer legs. In-flight note large white rump patch. Breeding plumage deep rusty on head and body (like Red Knot) (ebird)
update 202105
– today lockdown MCO3.0 day2, so clearing some old picture. Found this summer plumage bird stand alone with a beautiful reflection
– 封城3.0 第2天。這是3月拍的照片。它也有繁殖羽了。
202103, Pantai Jeram, Selangor, Malaysia
update 2020 Oct
– Selangor 202008
– still maintain some breeding plumage here
8.Eurasian Curlew, 白腰杓鹬,白腰杓鷸, Numenius arquata, ダイシャクシギ,KENDI BESAR BIASA
– one of the common winter migrant here .. not that difficult to spot one near mud/sand beach ..
update 202010
– 202008, 202009, 202010 Jeram, Morib, Selangor
9. Common Redshank, 红脚鹬,紅腳鷸, Tringa totanus, アカアシシギ, KEDIDI KAKI MERAH BIASA
– big size wader and normally in group
– one of most common winter visitor here (Center West Peninsular Malaysia) …
update 202303
– a different ssp Common Redshank (craggi) depend of checklist
– brighter orange overall
– 不一样的亚种。特别“亮”橙
202303, Sg Janggut, Selangor, Malaysia
update 202112
– one of the most common wader but it look gorgeous when it is on flight
– 马来西亚最普通的候鸟之一。可是它飞扬时还是非常漂亮。
202111, Selangor, Malaysia
update 2020 Nov
update 2020 Oct
– 2020 Aug, Sept, Oct … Sg Balang, Johor, Jeram, Morib Selangor
– not that common at mud beach at the center of Peninsular Malaysia
– Pantai Jeram, Malaysia, Mersing, Johor
update 202204
– in this time of the year, most of them changing to breeding plumage and ready to go home
– 每年的这个时候，他们换了繁殖羽准备回家了。
202204, Sg Janggut, Selangor, Malaysia
update 202103
– big group of them feeding before tide coming in and before heading home
– 第一次见到这么多只（大概10+）。努力的吃，安全回家。
202103, Selangor, Malaysia
update 202102
update 202011
202010, Jeram, Selangor, Malaysia
update 202010
202010, Selangor, Malaysia
15. Ruddy Turnstone, 翻石鹬, 翻石鷸, Arenaria interpres, キョウジョシギ, KEDIDI-KERIKIL MERAH
– medium size of wader
– a beautiful wader even non-breeding plumage
update 202104
– it is time to go home, so most of them getting ready for summer plumage which makes this bird really stand out among other shorebirds
– 马来西亚最美的水鸟之一。它准备回家了，繁殖羽也开始了。
202104, Selangor, Malaysia
202104, Selangor, Malaysia
202104, Selangor, Malaysia
update 202011
202011 , Sg Serdang, Selangor, Malaysia
16. Little Stint, 小滨鹬, 小濱鷸, Calidris minuta, ヨーロッパトウネン, KEDIDI-KERDIL PERANG
– always confused with Red-necked Stint, both having a very similar look, blackleg, cross-environment.
– thinner bill, longer leg compare to Red-necked Stint (thanks Dave Bakewell for confirming the ID and his knowledge sharing, please check his Youtube channel
update 202105
– there are not many leftovers here but this beautiful plumage bird still around and much easier to spot.
– 候鸟都大部分都回家了。可是这只稀有的候鸟+繁殖羽却还留在这。
202104, Pantai Jeram, Selangor, Malaysia
update 202103
– another visit and lucky to have this full ripe bird come close
– 又到这海边。幸运的遇上这繁殖羽的稀有鸟。
202103, Pantai Jeram, Selangor, Malaysia
#
– another bird found on the same beach
202103, Pantai Jeram, Selangor, Malaysia
#
– lucky to have this rare migrant and difficult to id stint come close with breeding plumage (again thanks to Dave Bakewell for help) – can see the wing covers with good orange, long leg, small head (still trying to see many pictures to see the head size and shape)
***if you interested to learn more about the difference between Little Stint and Red-necked stint. Dave Bakewell makes good share on both his blog and youtube
17. Gray-tailed Tattler, 灰尾漂鹬, 灰尾漂鷸, Tringa brevipes, キアシシギ, KEDIDI-KACAU ASIA
– medium size, yellow leg, gray shorebird – this bird breed in northeast Siberia – found near Mangrove
– 中級水鳥。灰。黃腳。 – 在西伯利亞繁殖。到這過冬。 – 蠻稀有的過冬鳥。
update 202101
202009, Selangor #
18. Far Eastern Curlew, 大杓鹬, 大杓鷸, Numenius madagascariensis, ホウロクシギ, KENDI BESAR TIMUR
– big wader just like Eurasian Curlew which is very common in Peninsular Malaysia
– light brown (not white) rump and heavily marked underwings, unlike the unmarked white underwings of Eurasian
– 与马来西亚较普通的白腰杓鹬很像。可是全体颜色较暗棕。臀部不是白色的。
update 202201
– another lucky morning at Selangor mudflat
– 马来西亚中部较稀有的水鸟。幸运的一个早上
202201, Sg Janggut, Selangor, Malaysia
update 202112
– a special tour to North for one of the vagrant that visit Malaysia (Black-faced Spoonbill). After got our target, and spend some time for the beautiful mudflat and one of the star found is this long-billed, overall dark curlew.
– waiting for long as both bird roost with head down. After a long wait finally got both show their bill for comparison. – the Far Eastern Curlew is rare here compare to Eurasian – Far Eastern overall look darker (rufous) both upper rump and underpart tail don’t have “white”. When flying the underpart wing will show more pattern instead of mostly white for Eurasian.
– a small wader with blackleg, overall very similar to Little stint especially at non-breeding plumage (please refer to Little stint above for good sharing by Dave Bakewell)
– 与非繁殖羽小滨鹬不容易分辨。黑脚。与小滨鹬分别：头较大。脚较短。嘴较细尖。
update 202503
A day to revisit the rare find from a few months ago, though it was only spotted once. Today, nothing really caught my attention—except for this shy wader that came surprisingly close, just about 10 meters away.
– one of the lucky days while looking at a group of ~50 Great Knot. all of sudden, a reddish similar knot found and it is the shorter bill, smaller in size. Summer plumage shows their differences too.
– 4 月的幸運天。忽然發現這繁殖羽的稀有候鳥（吉隆坡）
202104, Pantai Remis, Selangor, Malaysia
#
– when 2 stand together is easier to tell the Red Knot is smaller in size, shorter bill. But when both on breeding plumage then it is much easier. – very lucky day to have both breeding plumage stand together.
25. Asian Dowitcher, 半蹼鹬, 半蹼鷸, Limnodromus semipalmatus, シベリアオオハシシギ, KEDIDI-TETIRUK ASIA
– a medium size wader
Very uncommon large, long-billed shorebird, nearly the size of a godwit, found in coastal mudflats and open marshes. Breeding adult extensively brick-red below, dark and strongly marked with brick-red tones above. Nonbreeding adult grayish brown with a duller, browner bill. Juvenile dark above, with broad gold feather edges, pale below, washed with warm buff or gold tones and with neat dark stipples and chevron-shaped marks. Blackish legs distinguish Asian from Long-billed Dowitcher, which has yellowish-green legs. Blackish or brownish bill of adult Asian differs from bicolored bill of godwits; note that bill of juvenile Asian has pale base. (Ebird)
Critically endangered, highly distinctive stint with spatulate bill tip that can be difficult to spot at a distance when held in profile. A coastal mudflat specialist, it stays close to wet and muddy areas near or in water, unlike Red-necked Stint, which often feeds in much drier areas. Breeding adults have a rusty head that resembles that of Red-necked, but the head tends to be darker and the rusty color extends farther down the breast. Nonbreeding adults and juveniles lack the rusty head, have prominent fine stripes on the crown, dark ear patch, and are overall paler than Red-necked. Flight call a soft “prreee.” [Ebird]
– lucky day, while ours trip there… friend told us, everyone is at a mud beach for this bird and may be I can try my luck… so I try my luck in one morning .. and bingo less than 10 minutes wait the bird came really close for very good view, picture and video – 蛮幸运的台湾行，当我们到新竹区。朋友让我知道，这明星鸟就在我的酒店不远处。所以我就用个早上试试运气。当我到了，很快就见到这鸟可是蛮远。等了10分钟左右。这鸟居然飞来很近。
#####
update 20231219
– after some official stuff and follow by family trip, spent morning session at the “螃蟹步道“. just 30minutes spent, when I arrived I managed to see it far away which 80-120m… and I managed to captured and quite happy with it .. than continue with other birds that come real close.. not long 2 birds spot by local birders and I rush there and managed to have quite good series picture for this rare bird.. managed to have this star bird get close and with my lucky CANON RF200-800 (now I name it as Lucky 28) …
– male with the black, white-browed, black-yellow wing. female is grey overall, greenish wing
高山品种。公鸟-较黑。母鸟-灰绿
update 202410
– a small size montane bird that quite normal, it is common across North Thailand, Peninsular Malaysia and Borneo. A female with grey and male with black top.
– when we walking back to the vehicle, saw few small birds moving along the roadside. This female stay long after got caterpillar
I am Canon user for long, and recently I have my Panasonic setup slowly build up. I like my L lens and my G9 ….
one day, someone told me . I actually can use all my L lens on my M4/3 G9 . Due to busy work schedule, I dont have time to look into it until last week. I finally have time purchase one online and test it last 2 days … I did very quick test more testing would like to do
so I started with m2 adapter which give me
1. 1.4 crop (mean 500mm Canon F4 IS2, I got ~710mm and biggest aperture F2.8)
2. one stop bigger aperture
3. lost len Image stabiliser
4. AFC hunting, AFH is not working at all
5. either TC (CANON, PANASONIC) is not working (but tested on Olympus camera, it is working but very slow AF)
6. AF speed almost same like my G9 + LEICA 200mm F2.8 (almost not noticeable different)
a very active bird that keep moving around, not a easy bird to photograph
非常活跃的小鸟，几乎都跳来跳去没定向。
update 202401
– it was a quite open place the bird calling and jumping around to allow everyone has good view and photo took some time
– 蛮开发的点，这鸟几乎都跳来跳去也叫不停。可是要让每个人看到拍到，蛮不容易的
202212, Chiang Mai, Thailand
7. Giant Nuthatch, 巨䴓, 巨鳾, Sitta magna, オニゴジュウカラ
– a quite big size for Nuthatch, overall grey-blue and long beak. Like other Nuthatch, very active moving bird
– 蛮大的䴓，灰+蓝的鸟，长嘴。与其他䴓一样，非常活跃的鸟
update 202401
– ours last year bird Photography trip, very misty day and found this bird moving fast .. lovely bird to be photograph
– 我们上一年的泰国鸟摄行，记得非常大雾。可是我们还是把它拿下。
20221212, Doi Ang, North Thailand
8. Gray-headed Swamphen, 紫水鸡, 灰頭紫水雞, Porphyrio poliocephalus, ハイガシラセイケイ, PANGLIN BIASA
update 202601
It was our arrival day, and while waiting for our main target, we were treated to an amazing scene—about 15 of them feeding together in the same open area. Some even started fighting, adding plenty of action. Under the bright sunshine, they looked absolutely beautiful.
We spent our last morning at the same spot and decided to just have some fun with this lovely kingfisher — lots of laughter and great moments. The whole morning was covered in mist, so quite a bit of post-processing was needed to reduce the noise and haze. The bird dived around five times without any success, but this rather unskilled fisherman still gave us plenty of action and a fun session capturing BIF shots.
A short birding trip to northern Thailand turned into a pleasant surprise. After securing our two main targets, we decided to keep birding and see what else we could find. We knew a Crested Kingfisher was around, but the local ranger and guide kept telling us this species is usually only active in the morning.
Still, we decided to try our luck and reached the site at noon. After a few minutes of chatting by the river, a large bird suddenly flew in and perched right in front of us. We all shouted, “Kingfisher!”
The beautiful Crested Kingfisher perched not far away and even fed on a fish, putting on a fantastic show and giving us a great chance for photos. Sadly, I missed the actual fish-catching moment—I couldn’t decide which direction to wait, and just as I was moving, it dived!
“Short North-Thailand trip goals achieved! On our river adventure, our guide asked if we wanted to spot the elusive Black-backed Forktail. I said why not? What followed was pure patience-testing magic! We waited on a rock, and with some playback, the bird kept coming back for more… giving us an epic photo op . Not sure who got the perfect shot, but I’m pretty sure C got it and the others got zilch .”
1. Golden-bellied Gerygone, 黄胸噪刺莺,黃胸噪刺鶯, Gerygone sulphurea, マレーシアセンニョムシクイ, KELICAP-PEREPAT ASIA
– very small and beautiful songbird
– active near mangrove, forest edge
– 唱歌非常好听的小鸟。通常在红树林或森林周边。
#
update 202507
It was a scorching afternoon with barely any bird activity—until we heard this one calling loudly. Not long after, it came right to us, proudly showing off those striking long legs!
A tiny bird with a beautiful song, it’s often challenging to capture a good photo due to its small size. However, this time, it came down close enough for us to get a clear shot.
– after few days raining, last day having a very hot day instead. last minute decided to change to Pulau Indah. Din;t see much as middle of the day just too hot. But few good birds for photo.
1. Small Buttonquail, 林三趾鹑, 林三趾鶉, Turnix sylvaticus, ヒメミフウズラ, PUYUH KECIL BIASA
– a rare, small and shy bird here in Peninsular Malaysia
– found near open grassland
– 非常小，害羞，稀有的鳥。
update 202105
– 2021 is different, where normally I am very busy in March but this year spends almost 30 days for personal birding. It a hot and lucky day to see this in the same place (not this picture)
– a small bird which really shy and running fast.
After so many days here — honestly lost count — every day has been filled with excitement from birds, wildlife, food, and endless photography. But this species has always been high on my wishlist.
It’s one of my top targets for this trip, and we were lucky to spot it a few times, not too high up, giving us great photo opportunities. Now just hoping we can still get the “Grey-headed” too!
A dark, sleek, medium-sized bird with a black crest and a white rump. The red color under the tail is often difficult to see. Eats fruit, flower buds, and insects. Conspicuous and sometimes gregarious, often seen high in trees or perched on wires in urban and rural areas; generally prefers scrubby edge habitat instead of dense forest. Calls include a variety of chirps and whistles. Native to South and Southeast Asia. Introduced to Kuwait, Qatar, United Arab Emirates, Oman, and some Polynesian islands, including Hawaii. [Ebird]
update 202412
It seems this bird is quite common in the region—I may have seen it before in Sri Lanka or somewhere else. Still, it’s great to spot our first bird here after a long journey and a relaxing stay at the homestay in Baihualing, Yunnan, China.
I’ve quickly adapted to the setup (Canon R1), and capturing these in-flight shots felt almost seamless. The bird flew straight toward us, and I managed to get all 19 frames perfectly in focus.
3. Great Barbet, 大拟啄木鸟, 大擬啄木, Psilopogon virens, オオゴシキドリ
This largest of the barbets is colorful, but often appears all-dark from a distance. No other barbet in its range combines the features of a massive pale bill, black head, and dark olive back. Sluggish and shy; tends to stick to dense forest canopy, where it is difficult to see. Its loud hooting song (typically a series of two repetitive notes) is often the only indication of this species’s presence. Also gives a harsh, screaming “karrrrr” that has a gull-like quality. [Ebird]
I’ve seen this bird many times in various places but never had the chance to capture a photo—until now. Here, we finally had numerous opportunities to take some great shots.
Seeing the photo afterward was a completely different kind of excitement, as the vibrant colors that define the bird truly stood out. Simply incredible!
A gregarious babbler with a dark back and underparts spangled with scaly silver markings. At first glance, may resemble a cupwing, but this babbler is much larger and longer-tailed, and does not stick as closely to the ground as cupwings do. Often moves deep in dense shrubbery, but will occasionally forage in the middle layers of the forest as well, scaling trees and creeping along branches. [Ebird]
One of the stunning babblers has such flat body feather details that it almost resembles a drawing.
An 8-day journey to Yunnan, particularly to this bird photography paradise, is almost at its end. As expected, capturing great photos of many species was as simple as sitting and waiting. However, a bit of luck was still needed. According to local, the number of bird species visiting has decreased, and with more hides available, the birds may now spread out instead of gathering in the usual spots. Regardless, we thoroughly enjoyed our authentic photography experience here.
Although the trip isn’t over yet, this moment stands out as one of my favorites. The bird was incredibly active, appearing for just a split second with an almost surreal “flat” look to its body—like a 2D drawing. But with patience, it rewarded us with some fantastic views as the day drew to a close.
This tiny bird moves swiftly through the bushes, making it incredible that we managed to spot it.
It’s a bird everyone on this trip has been eager to photograph. Yesterday, only Amy and I were lucky enough to capture it, while others could only catch a glimpse without getting any photos. However, luck was on our side today! Two different Tesias came close to us within just 15 minutes, giving everyone the chance they had been hoping for. Tonight, we can all sleep soundly, content with the experience.
An active little bird with a bright yellow belly and a pale-tipped fan-like tail. Most common in foothill and submontane broadleaf forests, where it forages energetically and acrobatically in the middle and lower levels, often with fulvettas, warblers, and other small passerines in mixed-species foraging flocks. Very similar in shape to fantails but much smaller, and actually more closely related to tits. Song is a series of high “tsit” notes interspersed with twitters and trills. Call is often repeated at length, akin to a song, but much simpler, a series of high “tsip” notes. [Ebird]
An active little bird with a bright yellow belly and a pale-tipped fan-like tail. Most common in foothill and submontane broadleaf forests, where it forages energetically and acrobatically in the middle and lower levels, often with fulvettas, warblers, and other small passerines in mixed-species foraging flocks. Very similar in shape to fantails but much smaller, and actually more closely related to tits. Song is a series of high “tsit” notes interspersed with twitters and trills. Call is often repeated at length, akin to a song, but much simpler, a series of high “tsip” notes.
update 202412
One of the most active birds, behaving much like a fantail. While it’s not a lifer for me—I previously recorded it in Northern Thailand—it’s still a challenge to spot here in Yunnan, China. Thankfully, luck was on our side, and we managed to witness it spreading its tail, giving us a few great moments for some good photo opportunities.
One of a number of mind-numbingly similar Seicercus warblers. Greenish-yellow above and bright yellow below, with a faint wingbar, a yellow eyering, and a grayish crown marked by two black stripes. Gray of the crown is weaker than that of White-spectacled and Plain-tailed Warblers, but this feature is difficult to see in the shade of the understory, where it usually forages. Breeds in submontane and montane forest up to the treeline; averages higher Martens’s Warbler. Descends into submontane and hill forest in the non-breeding season. Song is an unremarkable but lively burst of whistled notes, lower in pitch than that of Plain-tailed Warbler. [Ebird]
A tiny warbler with a sudden flash of “yellowish” plumage appeared, and I immediately thought, “It’s a new bird!” Naturally, everyone quickly grabbed their cameras to capture it. It only showed up briefly while we were casually waiting for birds to come to the water.
8. Small Niltava, 小仙鹟, 小仙鶲, Niltava macgrigoriae, チビアオヒタキ
Size distinguishes this species from other niltavas; coloration is quite similar to Large Niltava, which is double the size. Male Small Niltava is bright blue with the brightest patches on the shoulder and forehead. Female is brown with a white eyering and a rufous tail and wingtips. Forages in the lower and middle levels of hilly and montane forests, usually singly. Listen for its distinctive song, a cleanly descending “wee-dee-dee.” [EBird]
Another bird we encountered, found only at a single hide despite visiting many others, initially appeared quite shy. However, after a few hours of brief appearances, it gradually became more comfortable and eventually stayed long enough for some great photos.
We chose this hide specifically for this bird and spotted it early in the morning. Afterward, we decided to move to another hide. The male arrived briefly before leaving, but luck was on our side as we caught the moment.
One of the standout birds at Baihualing, Yunnan, China is often seen as a highlight by both locals and visitors. Whenever someone spots or photographs one, it becomes big news in the village, quickly drawing bird enthusiasts and photographers to the area. This one shows up unexpectedly, as it did this time to take a drink, it captivates everyone around. It is a beautiful bird, with the female being particularly striking.
This is a fairly common bird in the area, but it moves too quickly to capture good shots. It often hides in dark and damp spots, making it a wonderfully active but elusive subject.
Tiny, stumpy bird of dense undergrowth. Male is dark slate-blue with broad white eyebrows that give him the appearance of a furious little old man. Female is warm pale brown all over. In areas of overlap with Chinese and Lesser Shortwings, look out for the all-dark lower belly, which is white in those species. Inhabits hill and montane forest, where it forages in dense undergrowth, frequently in proximity to streams. Song is composed of high thin whistles with short bursts of clicking chattering mixed in.
While everyone was focused on a few main target birds, one of our buddies, who could be considered a new birder, suddenly shouted, “Shortwing!” He was so proud of himself for identifying a bird on his own. Honestly, I think he should be even happier if he managed to spot a rare bird feeding instead!
Medium-sized owl with significant variation in plumage and vocalizations across its large range. Either gray or brown in coloration, with prominent pale ear tufts and pale face outlined in black. Fond of open wooded habitats from lowlands to foothills, often found roosting in temples, houses, and gardens, particularly in rural areas. Larger and more strongly tufted than both Oriental and Mountain Scops-Owls; both also lack the black facial border. Listen for this species’ incisive, short hoots, given at well-spaced intervals (often around 10 seconds). [Ebird]
It is quite a common bird, even in Malaysia. It was previously classified as the Sunda Scops-Owl but is now considered part of the Collared Scops-Owl. We often had one just outside our room, almost every day.
There is always debate about using torches or flashlights on birds, with no clear consensus on whether it is right or wrong for nature. However, there are certain actions we should never take or support, such as keeping them in cages or tying them up. It’s disheartening to know that many people still do such things, often just for the sake of a photograph.
Tiny brown flycatcher with a triangular white bib bordered with black. Gray head, frosty white brow, and ruddy wings and tail are not as eye-catching as the throat patch, but just as distinctive. Unobtrusive and retiring, generally keeping to the dense lower levels of foothill forests. Frequently forages in inaccessible gorges and thick streamside vegetation. Usually seen singly, occasionally in pairs. [Ebird]
A beautiful little gamebird of foothill and highland forests with extensive ground-level cover, where it moves about in medium-sized convoys through the dense undergrowth. Usually quiet, though sings melodically and loudly at dusk and dawn. Brightly-colored, even for a partridge; both sexes have a bright orange throat, a bluish-gray chest, and orange-and-white spotting on the sides [Ebird]
At almost every hide we visited, the owners assured us that this bird is always around. However, we didn’t spot it at any of those hides, except on day one when it briefly walked past. Hopefully, everyone on our team managed to capture a photo of this beautiful partridge.
Small songbird of forest edges, open scrub, and farmland, usually seen in pairs or small flocks. Male is silvery gray overall with black face and white supercilium, throat, belly, and wing patches. Female dull brown overall, with a rufous tail and faded version of the male’s head pattern. Bold but not very active, usually seen perching for long periods on posts and overhead wires. Song is bright and melodious, but often has a somewhat faltering quality, trailing off towards the end. Most common call is a harsh rising “bzeeet!”. [EBird]
During one of the quieter moments while waiting for a Scarlet Finch, a female caught my attention. As it flew around, I decided to enable Continuous Pre-record mode, just in case. Suddenly, it spread its wings, and I seized the perfect moment to press the shutter after see the action, capturing this stunning shot.
Adorable tiny bird that loosely resembles a minute tailless wren. Warm dark brown above with rufous overtones, and scaled below; pale-morph birds have white edgings to black “scales,” while dark-morph birds have edgings that are coffee-stain tan. Smaller Pygmy Cupwing lacks the tan spots speckling the crown and neck of Scaly-breasted. Scaly-breasted inhabits dark, damp areas in dense forest, often around boulders, streams, and ravines. Song is a jumbled series of high-pitched melodic warbles, notably more complex than the song of Pygmy Cupwing. [Ebird]
On our last day in Baihualing, we spotted two distinctly different tiny, tailless birds. At a distance of about 10-15 meters, I initially assumed they were the same Pygmy Cupwing. However, upon reviewing the captured photos, it was clear they were different species.
Knowing their behavior of spreading their wings when moving, I enabled Continuous Pre-record mode and pressed the shutter the moment the bird moved. Got it!
A common inhabitant of lowland and foothill tropical forests, where it sings brightly but often unseen from the canopy; listen for its repeated 3- or 4-syllabled ‘took-o-rrook!’ Tends to be more common in edge areas and degraded forests than other barbets. Bright green with a blue throat, a red-and-yellow crown, and a heavy, pale-based bill. Birds at the northern and western parts of this species’ range have a black brow, while southern birds don’t. [Ebird]
A vibrant bird with a predominantly blue head, commonly found in BaiHuaLing, Yunnan, China. Its calls are nearly constant throughout the area, and it occasionally comes down to forage for food and water.
Possibly the species to which the moniker of “scimitar-babbler” attaches most fittingly, as this inhabitant of high-altitude evergreen forests has a bill shaped like a curved sword. Predominantly orange-brown, with a gray head and jagged white eyebrow. Easily identified, even if seen only in silhouette; no other babbler in its range has such a long, sharply curved bill. Moves through the lower levels of the forest in large, noisy flocks. [ebird]
This bird has an oddly thin and curved beak, giving it a truly unique appearance. Though active, it’s not hard to spot here. At many bird hides, it readily comes out to grab food before retreating, making it relatively easy to see and photograph.
One of the most captivating birds of Baihualing, Yunnan, with its vibrant and striking colors, complemented by a charming crest, is both active and beautiful.
Birding in Yunnan, China last December was incredibly easy. We simply chose a hide, settled in, and waited—and sure enough, the birds came! In fact, there were so many, it was just a matter of picking which ones to photograph. We specifically came to this hide hoping to see the woodpecker, but we were also treated to a few star species like the Great Barbet, Slender-billed Scimitar-Babbler, and more.
This was a family holiday, so there wasn’t much birding planned. Still, I carried a wide-angle lens and the RF 100–500mm with me. In winter, there are plenty of gulls around, especially near the lake. One morning, I came across a group of gulls feeding very close by. I spent a few quick moments capturing this beautiful bird at close range.
It was a freezing morning at around –6°C. We went to Napa Lake mainly to revisit some good memories from years ago. After waiting for a beautiful sunrise, I was almost ready to return to the car when I suddenly heard a bird calling very close by. The bird stayed low to the ground, barely moving—likely due to the cold—with ice clearly visible around it.
I managed to capture some close shots, and that moment became the happiest highlight of this casual, relaxing trip to Yunnan.
23. Eurasian Coot, 白骨顶, 白骨頂, Fulica atra, オオバン, PANGLIN-HITAM BIASA
update 202601
This bird is very common here in Yunnan—you can easily see it up close around streams, rivers, and lakes. I’m here on a family holiday, enjoying a relaxed time with coffee and loved ones, casually watching the birds nearby. Suddenly, this bird started showing some action. My camera didn’t miss the moment—I captured everything and compiled the shots into this MP4.
We decided to walk along the boardwalk instead of taking a boat ride. While strolling, this bird came surprisingly close to us. I quickly opened my bag, grabbed the Canon RF100–500, and managed to capture this cute little bird.
Surprised that I haven’t shared this beautiful yet very common bird before. I’ve photographed it in many places—Malaysia (Kuala Gula, Kota Kinabalu), South Africa, Thailand, Kenya, and China.
This time was special, as it was the closest encounter so far. The bird was feeding right outside our hotel and wasn’t bothered at all, even when we got quite close.
This bird was surprisingly tame at Potatso National Park. It even hopped along the boardwalk like a little tour guide leading us on our walk. Many of them were feeding in the trees too, and honestly, I much prefer this pose compared to the ones “walking” on the boardwalk.
The weather today is exceptional. The deep blue of the sky is reflecting perfectly on the lake, creating a beautiful color contrast with this immature Brown-headed Gull. However, it is disappointing to see so many people feeding the birds various kinds of human food. While people likely have good intentions, but feeding with wrong food can be affect the bird health
On our river adventure, our guide asked if we wanted to spot the elusive Black-backed Forktail. I said why not? 
What followed was pure patience-testing magic! 
We waited on a rock, and with some playback, the bird kept coming back for more… giving us an epic photo op 
. Not sure who got the perfect shot, but I’m pretty sure C got it and the others got zilch 
.”
