Our Costa Rica birding adventure is officially underway. We spent a pre-tour day at the hotel to adjust to the time difference and managed to photograph about 25 species right on the grounds, including this charming little owl. On the first official day of the tour, we spotted and photographed 65 species, featuring this same owl in an impressively spirited pose. We have encountered so many incredible species and captured so many great shots already. Stay tuned for more updates.
Day 5 of our Costa Rica birding expedition and we have already photographed 151 species. We have encountered so many incredible birds, including this remarkable, secretive Lesser Ground-Cuckoo. Its behavior reminds me of the other two species I have photographed; it calls and then moves like a ghost—approaching silently, but jumping into the trees to call again once it is alert. What an amazing day and a stunning bird. I am so grateful to our local guide for their expertise and for giving us a second chance to track down this bird.
On our way back to the hotel after a boat ride, our guide heard an owl calling. We rushed over with limited light and soon spotted this beautiful Black-and-white Owl perched right by the roadside. Such a stunning bird.
This is one of those common yet incredibly beautiful birds to photograph. On the second day of our tour, we managed to spot it twice, capturing lovely moments both times. It is now day seven, and we have photographed 206 species. As we begin the highland portion of the trip, we just successfully found the primary target for everyone on the tour: the Resplendent Quetzal. More to come soon.
We’re offering a special tour led by expert local guides to track down one of the region’s rarest owls. Our latest outing was a huge success—in just two hours, we spotted two mammals, one owl, and one nightjar. Although the owl was vocal, it remained shy and difficult to spot on the forest trails. Fortunately, through persistence and teamwork, almost everyone in the group managed to capture photos of it at different locations. Great effort by the whole team.
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.
This bird was one of our trip’s main targets! We initially found one on its nest, but everyone was hoping to see its famous wing display. We decided to spend some extra time searching, and luckily, it didn’t take long to find another one. It put on a spectacular show, spreading its beautiful wings for us several times.
Two months after returning from Costa Rica, I still find it hard to believe that a bird this magnificent actually exists. The Resplendent Quetzal, with its stunning metallic plumage and iconic long tail, is undoubtedly one of the top species to photograph when visiting the country.
This was another primary target of our tour. We successfully located the bird on our first attempt in the evening, securing fantastic views and photos. Despite the initial success, the group wanted to visit a second site, which provided even better photographic opportunities for this spectacular species. With 8 days remaining, our photo count has reached 308 species, with many more to come.
Day 13, we photographed 351 species of bird and managed to have some very excited targets and few more days to go ..
it is one of very special look target of ours Costa Rica 2026 Birding our, we didn’t find one at first location and managed to got this bird at 2nd location almost immediate we start ours river cruise. Such a special look bird ..
This is the second Manakin species we have encountered, and watching its display was truly amazing. While we didn’t manage to record a video of the performance this time, we will try to share its unique calls and movements with you in the near future.
This species was one of our main targets. Although we couldn’t get close, it was a joy to watch it swimming around the same area for quite a while. It is a wonderful bird, though I truly hope to see it perched in the future.
With four days remaining, our count is currently at 360 species photograph. Everyone is feeling the exhaustion from the constant rain and trekking. I hope we all stay strong and healthy to push through these final four days.
Our Costa Rica trip is almost at its end, and we have photographed 34 species of hummingbirds. This particular bird made everyone very excited. We had hoped it would perch for a clear shot, but it only allowed us to capture it in flight. Our current count stands at 375 species photographed, with about 10 more seen but not caught on camera. Today is our final opportunity to add new species to our list, and we are hoping for the best.
We photographed nine owl species during this trip, and this pair was one of the easiest encounters — we had them almost immediately upon reaching the location. A local guide led us straight to the tree; he is also a talented local artist with an impressive collection of wildlife photographs and artworks available for sale.
We are now on the way back, rushing to the forests of Malaysia for another assignment. There may not be many opportunities to share photos from this trip, but I will try my best to post a few special highlights.
This bird keeps its distance from us. While there are one or two spots where Toucans visit feeders, the presence of bananas and papayas in the frame often makes the photos look unnatural. Because of this, most of us struggled to get a good shot until the last few days when this bird finally came down low for us at the forest edge. It was such an excitement for everyone to see this beautiful creature. Most importantly, thank you to everyone for prioritizing the bird’s well-being over the photo. You guys are the best.
Time has flown by, and it has already been a month since I returned from Costa Rica. I am currently on my third birding tour without any rest. April has been a whirlwind, taking me from Costa Rica to Borneo, back to Peninsular Malaysia, and now back to Borneo again. The absolute highlight of April 2026 was encountering this bird just 2-3 meters away at eye level. Watching it sing for a full minute and perform its display was truly the best moment of the month.
This is a bird that sits at the top of everyone’s bucket list, but upon our arrival in Costa Rica, the local guides informed us they weren’t active. We had nearly given up hope and put this strange-looking species out of our minds. However, as we neared the site, we received an update that they were active again. We decided to take a chance. To our absolute surprise, after only a short walk, we found them. The view improved from twenty meters overhead to an incredible eye-level encounter just two meters away. It was the amazing feeling of a lost opportunity turned into a found treasure.
The rain was closing in, so we rushed to see this bird immediately after spotting the Crested Owl. Luck was on our side as we found another pair roosting together. We managed to see our Potoo right after this, just before the rain started. What an incredible day for everyone.
This is a truly unique falcon. It has a very fixed routine when leaving its nest. We visited twice, and it followed the exact same method and path both times. It is absolutely amazing to see. This was my first time learning that falcons can nest in tree holes.
18. Great Tinamou, 大䳍, 大共鳥, Tinamus major, オオシギダチョウ
update 202604
While some birders prefer solo outings, birding in a group can be a major advantage. While we were all focused on photographing a Great Curassow in the dense forest, Xin Hui spotted a smaller bird that everyone else had overlooked. Once I finished with the Curassow, I quickly helped the group locate this elusive find. It was such a thrill to hear everyone shouting “Where? There!” in excitement. Although this species is rarely seen, it wasn’t shy at all, moving slowly even with nine of us standing just a few meters away. Having fun companions really makes the experience.
After a wonderful morning, we skipped our rest to keep the momentum going. Our local guide, Raul, took us for some easier birding along a flat grassland trail. We were lucky enough to witness a Tropical Kingbird chasing a Gray Hawk, and we also spotted this stunning Yellow-throated Toucan. It was truly a fantastic moment.
This bird was at the top of my wish list, especially because I wanted to see its famous moonwalk display. We were fortunate to witness it at eye level in a pristine environment. Although we were at an excellent feeding station with great opportunities to photograph owls, toucans, and other species, we chose to skip those to focus on this Manakin. While we were on the jungle trail, heavy rain forced us to stop and wait in silence. Fortunately, the rain ceased after about ten minutes, and we immediately heard the bird calling from the exact spot where we had taken shelter. Shortly after, Raul signaled us over, and there it was. We had an incredible session capturing both video and photos of this amazing creature.
We photographed seven species of trogons at eye level and at close range during our birding trip in Costa Rica. It was truly incredible how each individual bird approached us and stayed long enough for everyone to get a great look. This particular bird was one of three trogons we captured in a single morning, making for a fantastic second day of our trip.
When we first spotted this bird high in the canopy, everyone captured hundreds of photos of this common yet stunning species. After a few days, however, most people lost interest regardless of how well it posed or how perfect the lighting was. I still make sure to capture it whenever a photo opportunity arises.
This is one of the bird families we have been hoping to see and photograph. We were fortunate to have several close encounters with them in the open, giving us wonderful opportunities for photos.
Today is Woodpecker Day. This is one of the 12 woodpecker species we photographed during our March 2026 bird photography trip to Costa Rica. Most of them were quite easy to spot, especially this one, which visited several feeding stations. It is truly another beautiful bird.
25. Common Potoo, 林鸱, 灰林鴟, Nyctibius griseus, ハイイロタチヨタカ
update 202604
It is a very special bird that we have been eager to see and photograph. We were fortunate to have a great team that helped us find it right by the roadside. It is such an adorable bird, sitting there with its egg out in the open.
The Tanager family is truly remarkable. No matter where we travel, we encounter these birds, and most of them—like this one—are breathtakingly beautiful. The variety of colors on this bird is simply incredible.
We were incredibly fortunate to photograph three different species at a single location, all at a great distance and eye level. One of them was a fascinating bird that looks like a cross between a nuthatch and a woodpecker. This particular species is one of the larger ones; usually, after the first sighting, they tend to stay high in the canopy and far away from us. We feel very lucky to have captured it at such a perfect level and close range this time.
It was a rare stroke of luck on our route. This bird is a rare sight, but it made a brief appearance at the feeding station, grabbed a piece of banana, and was gone in an instant. Only two or three of us were lucky enough to witness it; the rest of the group just missed out. Despite being everyone’s top target, it never returned.
29. Common Tody-Flycatcher, 哑霸鹟, 普通啞霸鶲, Todirostrum cinereum, ハシナガタイランチョウ
update 202605
Out of more than 380 bird species photographed during our March 2026 Costa Rica birding tour, this particular bird leaves me with some of the fondest memories. It is completely tiny, has distinct long legs, and looks incredibly cute.
The Scarlet Macaw is truly an impressive sight. As one of the largest macaw species, they are quite common to hear and spot soaring through the sky if you visit the right habitats. True to their nature, they always make their presence known with their trademark loud and boisterous calls.
We have sighted this bird a few times, but the conditions never seemed right for photography. On one occasion, it hopped into the open for less than 10 seconds, so I doubt everyone managed to get a shot. This time, it stayed for a while, but it was during the final light of the day. Everyone was already preparing to head back to their rooms when it perched right above us. Most of the shots were taken handheld.
It was such a challenge to get a full view of this bird when we first heard and tried to spot it. Ironically, at our next site, one just walked right out to feed in front of us! However, it didn’t show its crest while eating, so I still prefer the first one we worked so hard to see. Huge thanks to our guide, Raul!
It was a rainy and heavily misty morning. We were supposed to hike the trail to look for a few target species, including this bird. Instead, it decided to come right to us, flying around and giving me a great opportunity for some bird-in-flight (BIF) shots.
It is one of the most common and beautiful birds we encountered, first spotted right after driving out of our hotel. The moment I laid eyes on it, I shouted “Motmot!”— mesmerized by its stunning racket-tail. Throughout our 18-day trip across Costa Rica, we were lucky enough to spot this species many more times.
One of the closely resembling kingfisher species found in Costa Rica, distinguished by its larger size and more extensive rufous chest patch. We were fortunate to get close views of this bird during both cruise sessions.
a beautiful bird that real shy and not get close to humans….
update 202605
Kuala Lumpur Day Tour Highlights
It was a fantastic day of birding right around Kuala Lumpur. We had an incredible morning session, spotting four different species of broadbills, all the local forest kingfishers, and four species of woodpeckers. A major highlight was the Bamboo Woodpecker, which stayed in view long enough for a spectacular look through the scope (though I unfortunately didn’t have my camera ready!).
The afternoon followed the usual quiet lull, but our luck held out. We ended the day on a high note with a pair of stunning kingfishers, providing the perfect closing to a wonderful trip.
We just arrived at the viewing tower and the bird calls are everywhere! We heard three of them right next to us at the canopy level. We were hoping for a glimpse, and soon enough, both the male and female flew right up to eye level. They stayed close enough for us to get some great pictures.
202602, Taman Negara Sungai Relau, Pahang, Malaysia
202602, Taman Negara Sungai Relau, Pahang, Malaysia
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update 202509
Sometimes, birding isn’t just about rare birds or perfect photos. A few of us just went out to enjoy the fresh air and see what birds might show up. The whole morning was quiet, but this bird turned out to be the highlight for us.
It didn’t give the best pose, but we still enjoyed a peaceful morning and a delicious lunch!
It was a slow afternoon—so hot even at 5pm that bird activity was low. But this bird quietly approached and surprised us by showing up just 20–30 feet away! Sadly, it wasn’t in the best position for a good photo.
– my first trip to Taman Negara 2024, birding is not fun with quite a lot of rain. But reward with many star birds included Rail-Babbler, Crested Fireback, Garnet Pitta and this lovely forest Kingfisher and etc
– always happy to see this beautiful forest kingfisher low… the female especially so adorable
– 每次看到这森林的翠鸟都非常兴奋。尤其是母鸟特别，优雅。
202307, Panti, Johor, Malaysia
update 202307
– this beautiful girl standing there for long and low. male also nearby but ours’ target yet to been found so skip it but still have some chance to click few photo of the good model
– 这美女，站那很久也很低·。可是一大早，目标鸟还没找到。所以只能按几次就继续找鸟。
202307, Panti, Johor, Malaysia
update 202204
– this bird never failed us coming to show us front/side view
– 这鸟几乎每天都在这让我们拍。
202204, Selangor, Malaysia
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– this canopy bird come down low today before I heading home, and making call
– 通常都站很高的鸟。在我离开前，尽然站很低还叫了几声
update 202203
– another small forest been destroy and sad this bird has to stay in orchard instead soon
– 可怜的鸟，栖居的小森林被砍完乐。
202203, Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia
update 202110
– another Kuala Lumpur star bird, thanks for those found it but with the current status and situation. very sad ….
– 吉隆坡的另一只明星鸟。可是，这个“状况”非常令人担忧。可是，没办法。一样的事每年都一样的重复。
update 2020 Oct
update 2018 Oct 9
update 2015 Jun 29
– another female close captured … a real beautiful bird that never get bore to see it again
3. Rufous-backed Dwarf-Kingfisher, 棕背三趾翠鸟, 棕背三趾翠鳥, Ceyx rufidorsa, セアカミツユビカワセミ, RAJAUDANG-API BIASA
– a forest kingfisher but still prefer near the waterfall, stream … tiny
– depend on checklist, it different from the Black-backed Dwarf-Kingfisher
update 202407
– a very special and lovely bird from lowland forest. with the shy “red”. Lucky bird before we leaving BRL, Danum Valley
– 非常漂亮的翠鸟，在我们离开丹浓谷前。竟然看到这鸟。
202407, Danum Valley, Sabah, Malaysia
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update 202401
– another good start, after lovely Bornean Bristlehead follow by this cute and beautiful Kingfisher stay calm and long.
– 非常好的2024开始，我们先看/拍到婆罗洲棘头鵙。出来时就看到拍到这么快的“小红”
202402, Sandakan, Sabah
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update 202211
– a very beautiful and tiny bird. but it just stay a distance from us.
– 非常漂亮，小的小鸟。可是总是站很远。
202211, Sg Congkak, Selangor, Malaysia
update 202210
– this beautiful bird use to be very common, tame and easier to see and photography at RDC, Sandakan, Sabah. But not sure what’s happen this bird just become too mystery, shy for years. Now sudden it seem quite tame and easy again.
– a lovely and beautiful forest kingfisher of Malaysia
– I am using R7 with CANON RF 100-500mm which also 160-800mm (35mm equivalent) and I tested all with 500mm (800mm 35mm equivalent). without any tripod, monopod just handheld with various shutter speed and 10-50 shots (average)
– tiny bird that shies with humans, active in catch fishes …
– active near stream looking for fish, prawn …
– mainly blue and underpart yellow
update 202308
– so far think Kinabatangan river is a best place for this bird, we never missed it even for picture. lovely blue and very common at river bank but the vibrant blue always attract any one
– 京河应该是最容易拍到这鸟的地方。几乎没错失过。虽然普通可是它的蓝几乎都会让每个人停下来看看它
202308, Kinabatangan river, Sabah, Malaysia
update 202105
– getting lazy, ~2km walk with another 2 kingfishers (this and Banded) – this is a male bird that thinks looking for its mate… making call nonstop
– 懒散的一个早上。可是幸运遇上2种小翠鸟。 – 公鸟，叫不停。应该找不到女朋友。
202105, Sg Congkak, Selangor, Malaysia
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– getting lazy, ~2km walk with another 2 kingfishers (this and Banded) – this is a male bird that thinks looking for its mate… making call nonstop
5. Blue-banded Kingfisher, 蓝带翠鸟, 藍帶翠鳥, Alcedo euryzona,アオムネカワセミ,RAJAUDANG BUKIT MELAYU
– small and shy river kingfisher
– normally prefer clean stream, river or pond
update 202302
– 2022, a pair of shy kingfishers appear in a feeding spot and it make some happening season. after the “season” bird begin to less active and no show after than
– it is not frequent I see the female and decide to share this picture. when I told this picture, just got new CANON R7. even at lowlight ISO6400 situation. the picture still acceptable.
– a very shy kingfisher, which normally prefers a clean, small river/pond. – male with blue-banded on the chest and female orange chest-bellied
– 算時馬來西亞最害羞的翠鳥。通常出現較乾淨小溪/湖。
#
– normally very shy and found near a clean stream, river. – a male bird’s sight for continuous few days but missing yesterday. – a day tour main target, didn’t see the male but saw the 2xfemale in a morning.
– a rare and shy bird – main target of the tour, we hit it early in the morning and got another good view of females also later. – female is distinct from male, the front, whole orange.
– 非常稀有有害羞的鳥。 – 封城前的團主要目標。早上8點就把她拿下。 – 母鳥，橙腹胸。
202105, Sg Congkak, Selangor, Malaysia
update 2020 June 3
2nd last tour before Malaysia lock down .. this bird stay so long and near for first time
Blue-banded Kingfisher, 藍帶翠鳥, Alcedo euryzona, アオムネカワセミ,RAJAUDANG BUKIT MELAYU
6. Stork-billed Kingfisher, 鹳嘴翡翠, 鸛嘴翡翠, Pelargopsis capensis, コウハシショウビン, PEKAKA-EMAS BIASA
– a big kingfisher which found low dense forest, mangrove etc
update 202410
– a big yellow and “big beak” Kingfisher, it does look slight different from Peninsular Malaysia/Thailand/India
– 3 years ago, I am testing R3 at Kuala Selangor with this bird flying and managed to have good result. Now, finally the high megapixel R5markii finally also come with good focusing system. The bird dive into pond without any notice and without any fish it flying back to nearby perch. I didnt prepare for any dive shots but managed to get the bird focus almost immediate I point my camera to the bird.
– finally managed to have some open space for me to trying out more AF test on BIF. many swifts, raptors and etc flying around but it is at various direction and can be any where. You won’t know where the bird come from but just what flying in your’s view than use the Camera capability to focus and track the bird in various Background (river, sky and forest-green)
– this bird flying from forest crossing the river toward me … very soon I point the setup toward the bird. Focus LOCK and track in very fast response. I will review all the files soon to see how many is tacked and how many lost later (I am not a DPP user it really slow even I want try to crop the picture … need more time to use to the DPP for short while)
this is Sabah which look slight different on forehead
Stork-billed Kingfisher ,鸛嘴翡翠
7. Common Kingfisher, 普通翠鸟, 普通翠鳥, Alcedo atthis, カワセミ, RAJAUDANG CICIT
– small size, winter visitor
– found near small river, paddy field with water, water pond etc
– shy to human
update 202509
This year it arrived a bit later than last year, but returned to the same spot with the same behavior—just like the past 5 years. Always a joy to see this beautiful kingfisher back for its winter break!
update 202403 – this bird seem pretty common at Kinabatangan River .. not less than 20 birds over 2.5 days there – 今年没什么候鸟，可是这一种却还好。2.5天看到不下20只吧
202403, Kinabatangan River, Sabah, Malaysia
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update 20221012
– a common winter visitor, which normally very shy to human when arrive
– 非常普通的候鸟。可是非常害羞。
202209, Kuala Selangor, Selangor, Malaysia
update 20220924
– when on tour, we seldom having a lot of time for single bird. But lucky to see this bird suddenly dive in and with the simple setup CANON R7 and RF100500 managed to got few pictures.
– a common kingfisher here (Malaysia) … easily found near mangroves, beaches … some location, it is easy to get close …
– medium size, blue and white
– juvi sometimes confuse with Sacred Kingfisher
update 20230323
– a date to be remember, a beautiful lights with 2 noisy kingfisher start our’s day and received a bad new…. my best buddy leave me 🙁 he will be forever with me …
– this Kingfisher just like someone, like eat crab so much
– 这翠鸟，有如某人非常喜欢螃蟹。
202211, Jeram, Selangor, Malaysia
update 202201
– always got free crab to eat
– 终于有螃蟹吃咯
202201, Selangor, Malaysia
update 202104
– drop by here to looking for any bird in flight again before heading for meeting friend for main target birding
– this bird finally got a crab for breakfast, got this manual focus before it lands on a perch
– 去目的地之前，到这看看有什么鸟飞版拍拍。尽然看到这翡翠一早捉了一只螃蟹。手动对焦拍下这一幕。
202104, Selangor, Malaysia
update 2020 Nov
202011, Sg Serdang, Selangor, Malaysia
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Collared Kingfisher 白領翡翠 humii Group
9. Rufous-collared Kingfisher, 栗领翡翠, 栗領翡翠, Actenoides concretus, アオヒゲショウビン, PEKAKA-RIMBA MELAYU
– medium size jungle kingfisher, male and female look different
update 202407
– a bird that use to quite easy at Sabah but getting tough to have good view .. may be I am losing luck to see ti good at Sabah. But a lucky group of people see it close and good with front, side and back view.
– a forest Kingfisher that normally stay not that high from ground.
– sometime I really thing, without disturb how long a bird will stay at nearby active area for how long.. this bird seem active here (Panti) since 2013 and each time I am there sure it will show up…
– 是不是越少打扰，鸟会一直活跃在一个地方永久或很久？
202308, Panti, Johor, Malaysia
update 202307
– a very good birder from Canada (born Malaysia), “enjoy the moment”
– not a very rare bird, but it is a last request from guest. It calling deep in the jungle. light got dark and we decided to walk in to find it .. lukcy not that long found it and it allow us approach ~12 feet from it
– a very quiet in the forest, this bird stand low and quiet at the edge of forest.
– 非常安静的一个下午。这鸟一样的静静的站在森林边缘。
202210, RDC, Sabah, Malaysia
update 202208
– few months ago, everyone seem concentrate on Rufous-backed Dwarf-Kingfisher and now everyone seem waiting for Blue-banded Kingfisher instead. same this bird no one really care … a beautiful bird .. one of my favorite
– 几个月前，每个人都拍小红（棕背三趾翠鸟）。现在，每个人在意小蓝(蓝带翠鸟).一样没人理会这鸟。
202208, Sg Congkak, Selangor, Malaysia
update 202205
– everyone seem attract by the “red” one .. no one care about me .. lovely male forest kingfisher
– 几乎全部人去拍小红了。没人理会这林翡翠
202205, Ulu Langat, Selangor
update 202105
– one of the 3 forest kingfishers of Malaysia. This considers medium size Kingfisher, male with overall blue on the wing and female greenish with yellow dots.
– not really common to meet female at this spot over the years. But lucky to have it calling in the morning lets us found it and photograph it.
– 馬來西亞3種森林翠鳥的其中一種。母鳥較少見到。通常在潮濕暗的林子裡活動。
202105, Sg Congkak, Selangor, Malaysia
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– one of the lovely forest kingfishers of Malaysia. she made a call low and only available at the small open window
– 马来西亚另一种森林翠鸟。很漂亮的母鸟。在低，暗的一直叫。
#
update 2020 May 12
Rufous-collared Kingfisher,栗領翡翠, Actenoides concretus,アオヒゲショウビン, PEKAKA-RIMBA MELAYU
– a very shy bird … it is difficult to approach to take photo or video
– winter visitor prefer to be at mangrove area or river
update 202412
A quick morning birding session before my trip to Indonesia turned out to be unexpectedly rewarding. Despite a long search for the target bird, which didn’t show up, another bird appeared instead, standing incredibly close to us. To our surprise, it even struck a few poses before flying away. It lingered nearby for quite some time, leaving us with an unforgettable experience.
– a mid-size of Kingfisher calling Collared Kingfisher alike, but unmistakable with bright white-with rufous on chest and dark-blue back+black.
– a casual visit nearby beach which I told my buddy, his target Black-capped Kingfisher can be found here … very good environment. But I didn’t see it last 3 visits but today.. when I arrive, spot a familiar bird far and inside palm tree. After a while of keep looking, found it making pre-roosting shower … bingo
– depend on the checklist this split from Banded Kingfisher (if split it is Borneo endemic)
update 202605
We had a quick stop at the Rainforest Discovery Centre (RDC). Even though we arrived in the heat of the afternoon and had limited time, we were very lucky. We spotted the Black-crowned Pitta and Red-breasted Partridge almost immediately. A walk along the trail also rewarded us with several great sightings, including the Van Hasselt’s Sunbird. While on the canopy walkway, we heard a bird calling very nearby. It took a moment to find a clear view, but after waiting patiently, the bird moved into a perfect position for photos.
– wonderful last day of the tour, this main target came down low after long wait .. and it carry a mantis to feed his wife too
– a canopy bird that coming low for use take some wonderful picture of this handsome
– 一年前安排的摄影行，几乎要被取消（火山爆发）。可是朋友们的执着，到最后一天+最后一只主要目标。
– 这鸟都是在树顶活动的，很小通常都不好拍。这次下来低+捉了只螳螂喂老婆。
202404, Sugud, Sabah, Malaysia
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update 202404
– another good bird seen while waiting for target bird, this bird just came not that high and making some call .. beautiful male bird
– 沙巴另一只低海拔的主要目标鸟。在等其他鸟，这鸟飞在我们附近不高。
202403, Sepilok, Sabah
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update 202402
– while we waiting for ours target, a pair of this special Borneo endemic came really low while the target also came close to us… make everyone of us so busy to look for 3 of them 。。 this such a beautiful girl
– ours’ last day at the Tawau, just want spend a morning for anything as main target ticked. everyone seem happy with yesterday Blue-Banded Pitta show, and today almost not really in mood for anything and raining… we just walking around but all of sudden this bird make a call and with little bit of wait and searching .. it stand at eye-level for us.. but sad one of outs’ team fall down with minor injure hope he recover soon
– a bird that every love to seen and photography. Before heading to no internet again, let’s share another good picture from previous tour. This bird just stand so low giving us a good view and picture.
– 应该是最上镜鸟之一吧。等会又开始没网的日子。让我分享上一团我蛮喜欢的照片之一。
202307, Sandakan, Sabah, Malaysia
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– a lucky quick walk, this bird just stand so low for good view and picture
– 非常幸运的遇上这么美丽的鸟站这么低
202307, Sandakan, Sabah, Malaysia
update 202210
– lucky of the day, we got this lovely bird end of the day even quite dark but still good view of the female
– 非常幸运的在最后一刻，看到这么漂亮的母鸟。
202210, RDC, Sabah, Malaysia
update 202106
– depend which checklist, this bird may split as Borneo endemic
the male bird in Borneo look different from Banded Kingfisher (Thailand, Peninsular Malaysia, Java, Vietnam etc). The mae with obvious black face but female look same
– 不一样的鸟单, 有些新的把这鸟分为婆罗洲特有种。
– 只有公鸟脸是黑的。母鸟一样，叫声，都一样。
201808, RDC, Sandakan, Sabah, Malaysia
update 202105
– one of the most beautiful forest kingfishers of Malaysia. Some split this from Banded Kingfisher which has the same behavior and call. except the male have black-face
– 馬來西亞最漂亮的森林翠鳥之一。與馬來西亞西馬的橫斑翠鳥相同。除了，公鳥帶有黑臉。
201805, RDC, Sabah, Malaysia
update 2019 Dec 13
one of the big print for Panasonic G9 ..
update 2018 Aug 18
finally little bit free time to update what I got last few months
lucky to see 2 stand together again .. may be the angle how come the female bigger than male so much !!!
update 2018 Aug 20
it is amazing how this kingfisher calling without move it head
– another very common kingfisher which found urban, edge of forest
update 202602
Today is Chinese New Year’s Eve, and there is a beautiful tradition we follow: “Nian Nian You Yu.” In Chinese, the word for “surplus” (余) sounds exactly like “fish” (鱼), so we always look for fish to symbolize having extra savings and abundance for the year ahead.
I spent the day with friends at a famous local spot known for eagle and kingfisher feeding. It wasn’t long before this kingfisher spotted its target and dove straight for the water. What a perfect sight to start the new year! Wishing everyone a prosperous and abundant year ahead.
202602, Kota Damansara, Petaling Jaya, Selangor, Malaysia
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update 202211
– common kingfisher of Malaysia, but it is still a such beautiful bird to seen and photograph
– 马来西亚非常普通的翠鸟。可是，看或拍起来非常漂亮。
202211, Kuala Selangor, Malaysia
update 202110
– another long distance tour after the long lockdown. But the target bird seem missing and we driving around to take opportunity to test the CANON EOS R3 capability.
– this common kingfisher widely spread across Peninsular Malaysia and pretty common to found them at Paddy field
– 封城后，第2次远行（700+公里）。可是，目标鸟没看到。当然，在这么好的稻田。我尽量运用手上的“新”佳能 EOS R3。 测试对焦的本领，拍飞行鸟照。
– this is a special bird for Sulawesi as it is only for South-Sulawesi (we got this from Makassar). the rest of the area having “Blue-headed” instead of Black-headed
update 202310
– a special target at South Sulawesi, it is not as easy as the Tangkoko version of Green-backed. Look different on head , darker
– an old picture captured 2014, clearing my hdd and I think worth to process one more to plan more trip to Indonesia. with beautiful light think very beautiful bird
20. Common Paradise-Kingfisher, 普通仙翡翠, 普通仙翡翠, Tanysiptera galatea, ラケットカワセミ, Cekakak-pita biasa
– A long-tailed kingfisher of lowland forests. White underparts and rump, dark blue upperparts with pale blue shoulder and crown. Long white tail with 2 extended central tail feathers ending in spatula tips. Sits still for long periods whilst slowly pumping its tail. Very similar to Little Paradise-Kingfisher, but Common Paradise-Kingfisher is larger, with a paler crown, white rather than blue outer tail feathers and a heavier bill. The safest way to separate, however is by vocalization. Heard more often than seen. Song, a rapidly accelerating and slightly rising series of dry notes. [Ebird]
One of the more common yet challenging birds to photograph is the kingfisher. Even though it often appears at feeding spots, we usually don’t have time to focus on it due to our busy shooting schedule. However, our local guide, Pak Wan, mentioned that it’s actually easy to spot near our hotel. So, we decided to spend a quick morning there after breakfast. To our delight, three kingfishers were flying around, and on several occasions, one even perched for us! The excitement of seeing them in flight had everyone in awe. It was absolutely worth it—even if we hadn’t managed a photo. But we did!
– a beautiful Kingfisher, even is common but shy for picture
– 蛮漂亮的翠鸟。虽然普通，可是还是不容易拍照。
202304, Halmahera, Indonesia
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update 202304
– a beautiful Kingfisher, and for the first time feel such a beautiful bird such annoying. Each time the Pitta come near, this bird will fly from far to flush the Pitta away 🙁 no choice to wait and wait until it get bored.
– a Halmahera endemic, overall pied like Kingfisher
update 202504
Night birding can be a bit challenging at times, but it’s been incredible to photograph 11 species of kingfishers over the past 7 days—including this special Halmahera endemic with food in its beak!
– a small kingfisher just like other Dwarf-Kingfisher but overall blue
– 非常小的翠鸟。
update 202310
– a small kingfisher seem like to stay together with the North Moluccan Pitta, always calling while we waiting for the Pitta
– 这翠鸟，总喜欢与八色鸫一起生活。在等八色鸫时总听到它叫。
202304, Ternate, Indonesia
23. Small Blue Kingfisher, 小蓝翠鸟, 小藍翠鳥, Alcedo coerulescens, ヒメアオカワセミ, Rajaudang Biru
a very common small blue-white small Kingfisher at Bali-Java, can be seen almost any where near stream, pond …but quite shy as usual
这小翠鸟在巴厘岛几乎蛮普通，可是还是不容易拍。很害羞。
update 202607
Sometimes the best memories and finest photographic moments happen when you least expect it, completely away from any established bird feeding spots. That is where the real fun of birding is! We were lucky enough to get an incredible up-close experience with this bird as it kept coming back to feed on fish right in front of us. It was the perfect final session for our East Java birding trip, ending with a grand total of 134 species photographed.
– this is a very good example of need more fps .. so not always correct we do not need .. I normally shoot ~15fps in most of the camera by default … when this bird sudden dive in I am too late to change the fps .. and most of the frame without very good “eye contact” or I would say too less frame within the dive action (~7frames)
– small and noisy Kingfisher pretty common at East Sumba Island almost heard any where .. and saw few locations . region endemic here
– 小，漂亮的翠鸟。这区域的特有种。
update 202512
It’s not a lifer for most of us, as we’ve already seen it on Sumba Island. But this time in Lombok, we were just taking it easy when the ranger mentioned the bird was nearby.
We thought, “Why not?”—and that led to the toughest hike of the trip! Thankfully, it paid off with a wonderful view of this beautiful Kingfisher.
– ours 2nd target of the day after the beautiful Pitta. very soon we stop we heard and spot the bird and the bird around for almost whole day while we looking for other bird. It still around calling and appeal
This endemic kingfisher of Halmahera is fairly common, but we were lucky to enjoy an incredibly close encounter—especially for our lucky ladies’ group. Truly a beautiful bird!
One of the most common birds around, but this time it kept its distance and wasn’t too friendly. Still, we managed to get plenty of nice flight shots. Such a beautiful bird, especially when its wings are fully open!
Excited to revisit this amazing birding spot soon! During our last trip, we spent quite a bit of time searching for this unique “hook-billed” bird—but the effort was totally worth it. Can’t wait to try again in West Papua!
28. Beach Kingfisher, 白头翡翠, 海灘翡翠, Todiramphus saurophagus, シロガシラショウビン, Cekakak Pantai
update 202509
This kingfisher is quite common from Maluku to Papua Island—not a rare bird, but like many kingfishers, it can be shy when approached. Also, it’s not the easiest to photograph, especially with its bright head that’s easy to overexpose.
After our noon break, we explored along the river and were lucky to spot one perched nearby. Even better, it came back again for another look!
This forest Kingfisher is probably one of the shyest I’ve ever encountered.
I tried photographing it during my last trip here but failed after several attempts. This time, we finally had a clear and prolonged view. Still, the bird remained very shy, making it challenging for everyone to get good shots.
A bit of a shame that some angles didn’t give a clear view, but still a rewarding sighting!
A bird I’ve been wishing to photograph for years, finally crossed off the list thanks to a specific birding spot found. We had almost zero wait time before both the male and female, along with a few other birds, came right up to us. This beautiful, rare, and shy Kingfisher is a stunning sight. The lovely female here is visibly different from the male Malayan Blue-Banded Kingfisher, as she completely lacks the signature “blue band.”
It’s definitely not a new bird for everyone—especially with the amazing feeding and nesting spots in Vietnam and Thailand recently—but who could ever say no to this beauty? It just popped up while we were enjoying quality time with the Javan Banded Broadbill, Black-banded Barbet, and Violet Cuckoo. In an instant, everyone shifted focus to photograph this stunning bird.
A medium-sized kingfisher with a distinctive chestnut belly, sapphire blue tail and flight feathers, ashy-gray head and breast, and vermillion bill. Pairs inhabit dry and moist woodland, especially riverine woodland; has been known to breed in riverbanks. It has complex movements and is a migrant in the southern part of its range. Calls a strident trilling “t-t-t-t-t-t-t”, although this can be weaker and less obtrusive than other kingfishers; also calls a repeated, squeaky “tsury, tsury”. [Ebird]
This is another colorful bird we spotted during our South Africa bird photography trip. We had many great sightings, but this was one of the closest and most perfectly angled shots we captured.
We first saw and photographed this kingfisher at Lake Baringo, but it was either too far or perched on the resort roof—not ideal. Of course, everyone wants a great shot of a kingfisher!
Today, we rushed to Lake Naivasha hoping for a better chance, but under the hot sun, it was still either too far or too high.
Luckily, we spotted some nice birds at the car park before heading for a late lunch. After lunch, I suggested a casual walk by the lake—and to our surprise, the kingfisher was feeding right near where we stayed.
It kept diving for fish—around 10–15 dives, but only caught fish 3 times (maybe not the best fisherman!). Bingo !!! He got the fish !
We first saw and photographed this kingfisher at Lake Baringo, but it was either too far or perched on the resort roof—not ideal. Of course, everyone wants a great shot of a kingfisher!
Today, we rushed to Lake Naivasha hoping for a better chance, but under the hot sun, it was still either too far or too high.
Luckily, we spotted some nice birds at the car park before heading for a late lunch. After lunch, I suggested a casual walk by the lake—and to our surprise, the kingfisher was feeding right near where we stayed.
It kept diving for fish—around 10–15 dives, but only caught fish 3 times (maybe not the best fisherman!). Still, we got some lovely close shots to enjoy.
One of the closely resembling kingfisher species found in Costa Rica, distinguished by its larger size and more extensive rufous chest patch. We were fortunate to get close views of this bird during both cruise sessions.
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!
