Tag: SBWR

Sunday morning birding.

Another Sunday morning, another session of birding at Sungei Buloh Wetland Reserve (SBWR). Today, there was a large flock of Eurasian Whimbrels (I counted 70) resting around the tidal ponds which I did not see the week before.

The incoming tide filled the tidal ponds with water bringing with it a source of food. Some Little Egrets were chasing others off to stake their claim on their hunting grounds.

This Little Egret was trying to catch something in the water. Although it did not catch anything, I’ll give it 10 points for doing it in style and with flair.

While resting at the Main Hide, I saw a White-bellied Sea Eagle fly pass to escape harassing crows. This one’s a juvenile based on the colors. It will gradually develop into it’s black and white plumage as it matures.

I also saw a pair of Sunda Pied Fantail darting from branch to branch hunting for insects.

Lastly, I spotted my first Common Kingfisher of the migration season. Unfortunately, it promptly disappeared after diving for a catch so I was unable to look for an unobstructed shot.

eBird checklist: https://ebird.org/checklist/S392354252

Welcome back.

Last Sunday was my first time birding in SBWR for the past 4 months. It’s good to be out again to get some much needed exercise.

The migration season is well and truly here with large flocks of Common Redshanks and Pacific Golden Plovers sighted. Unfortunately, all the birds decided to forage very far away from the trails and hides which means no luck getting good photos.

Some of the tidal ponds have dried up considerably due to the recent hot weather. I saw a few Collared Kingfishers take advantage of this to hunt for prey.

While the birds were far away from the Main Hide, I distracted myself watching the Mudskippers nearby. The one behind was aggressively chasing other Mudskippers out of its territory.

eBird checklist: https://ebird.org/checklist/S390219032

In search of the big 300.

I was looking at my eBird stats and noticed I’m on 299 species sighted on my life list. What will help me hit the big 300? Based on sightings reported on social media, I had several options. I decided to head to SBWR to try my luck at seeing the Black-and-red Broadbill.

Unfortunately, after waiting in the morning the bird was a no-show (not yet at least) but I had to leave. So, the 300th species remained abegging. The following weekend I will be in Malaysia so there’s still a good chance of finding something special to hit the big 300.

It wasn’t a wasted day though. I saw the Blue-eared Kingfisher which is always a joy to see.

Up in the sky, a Brahminy Kite was seen pursuing a Crested Serpent Eagle which intruded its airspace.

As I was making my way out, I saw this huge Saltwater Crocodile basking on the riverbank. I took some photos and didn’t give it much thought.

When I got home and processed the photos on the computer, I noticed there was a Green-crested Lizard resting on the head of the crocodile. How the heck did it get there?!

eBird checklist: https://ebird.org/checklist/S336114851

The quest for the Forest Wagtail.

I dropped by Sungei Buloh Wetlands Reserve to try my luck again at spotting the Forest Wagtail (FW). Arriving in the hot afternoon sun, I was told by other birders that the FW was seen earlier but had gone hiding. I decided to wait to see if it would show up again. 

Sometimes, waiting can be fun to see what other birds come my way. The first was this Ashy Tailorbird actively flying around in search of food. 

Next, an Oriental Magpie Robin was seen actively foraging on the ground. At one point, it plopped itself on the ground and looked like it was panting. I understand this is a common reflex in birds to cool down their bodies (it was a really hot day). 

I thought this scene of the Common Iora staring at the Ornate Sunbird to be quite amusing. I have not seen these two species interact with each other before. 

After 4 hours of waiting, I was on the brink of giving up. Then, another birder sighted the FW hidden amongst the undergrowth. I managed to capture a few record shots before letting others take my spot. 

Not the best of photos but I’m just happy to not walk away empty handed from the 4 hours of waiting.

eBird checklist: https://ebird.org/checklist/S311795340