The Salaryman Birder

Tag: SBWR

  • 10 May 26 – Sungei Buloh Wetland Reserve, Singapore

    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.

    Blue-eared Kingfisher

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

    Brahminy Kite (left) / Crested Serpent Eagle (right)

    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.

    Saltwater Crocodile

    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?!

    Green-crested Lizard / Saltwater Crocodile

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

  • 22 Mar 26 – Sungei Buloh Wetlands Reserve, Singapore

    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. 

    Ashy Tailorbird @ Sungei Buloh Wetland Reserves, Singapore.
    Ashy Tailorbird

    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). 

    Oriental Magpie Robin @ Sungei Buloh Wetland Reserves, Singapore.
    Oriental Magpie Robin

    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. 

    Common Iora and Ornate Sunbird @ Sungei Buloh Wetland Reserves, Singapore.
    Left: Common Iora, Right: Ornate Sunbird

    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. 

    Forest Wagtail @ Sungei Buloh Wetland Reserves, Singapore.
    Forest Wagtail

    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