Japan in Winter 2023: A Crane, Sea-Eagle & Snow Monkey Spectacle
Dates: January 14–27, 2023
Leaders: Rafael Gálvez & Kaz Shinoda
E-bird not available
KEY:
PT = optional pre-tour outing in Honshu – 1/15/2023
HN = Honshu
KY = Kyushu
HK = Hokkaido
AOU = American Ornithologists’ Union (now AOS, American Ornithological Society)
Ducks, Geese & Waterfowl (Anatidae)
(Bewick's) Tundra Swan (Cygnus columbianus bewickii) PT HN 1/15. Bewick’s type Tundra Swans were the predominant swan present at the Inzai-Motono Swan Sanctuary, Honshu, and in Hokkaido. Breeds in Siberia, and sports a large nugget of yellow at the base of the bill. It is considered by some authorities a distinct species from the American "Whistling" form.
(Whistling) Tundra Swan (Cygnus columbianus columbianus) PT HN 1/15. A single Whistler was seen at Motono Village Swan Sanctuary on our pretour outing among hundreds of Bewick’s type Tundra Swans. Breeds on the Arctic Tundra of North America, and told from the Palearctic variant by a lack or near-lack of any yellow at the base of the black bill.
Whooper Swan (Cygnus cygnus) – PT HN 1/15; HK 1/24-26. Superb views of these large swans with lots of yellow at base of bill. About 85 were seen at the Motono Village Swan Sanctuary on the pre-trip day. Many were also seen at Lake Kussharo on Hokkaido, and more on icy fields at the Akan Crane Center.
Common Shelduck (Tadorna tadorna) – KY 1/19-21. Dozens of these handsome birds were seen best at Arasaki Crane reserve, and on agricultural fields near the Kuma and Hikawa river mouths.
Mandarin Duck (Aix galericulata) PT HN 1/15; KY 1/20, 22. About 10 of these spectacular ducks were first seen along the Narita View preserve near our hotel during the pre-trip, and many more in Kyushu. The largest numbers were at the Izumi-Kogawa Dam where we saw several congregations of dozens of Mandarins. A close relative of North America’s Wood Duck.
Baikal Teal (Sibirionetta formosa) – PT HN 1/15. This is one of the most attractive teal in the world – the males beautifully patterned with yellow and green facial markings. A relatively difficult and uncommon species to find, considered a vulnerable, scarce, wintering duck in Japan; typically, only a few individuals are seen during this tour. To our amazement, an estimated 15,000 (!!!) were seen in huge masses at North Lake Inbanuma on the 15th. This was one of the favorite experiences of the tour for several participants, and a wildlife experience likely to be a “once in a lifetime” event.
Northern Shoveler (Spatula clypeata) – HN 1/17. Seen only at Kasai Seaside Park.
Gadwall (Mareca strepera) – HN 1/17. Seen only at Kasai Seaside Park.
Falcated Duck (Mareca falcata) – PT HN 1/15; KY 1/20-21; HK 1/25. A close relative of the Gadwall and wigeons, we were fortunate to see this stunning and near-threatened species several times, and on all three islands.
Eurasian Wigeon (Mareca penelope) – HN 1/16-18; KY 1/20-23; HK 1/25. The Eurasian counterpart to the American Wigeon. We saw hundreds throughout Japan, with 110 in Lake Gonoike, Honshu, and 350 in Lake Miike, Kyushu.
Eastern Spot-billed Duck (Anas zonorhyncha) PT HN 1/15-16,18-19; KY 1/20-23. A widespread, large and attractive dabbler. Along with Mallard, the most commonly seen ducks in Japan.
Mallard (Anas platyrhynchos) – PT HN 1/15-19; KY 1/20-23. HK 1/24-25. Widespread on all three islands, and seen nearly daily except for our final day.
Northern Pintail (Anas acuta) – PT HN 1/15-16,18; KY 1/22-23; HK 1/24. Common in many areas.
Green-winged (Eurasian) Teal (Anas crecca crecca) – PT HN 1/15-16,18; KY 1/21-22. The North American “Green-winged” Teal occurs widely across the U.S. and Canada; however, the Eurasian birds are of the distinct crecca race known as Common or Eurasian Teal, regarded by many authorities as separate from the American carolinensis. Regardless of where you stand on this classification issue, the Eurasian birds are easily recognizable by their lack of a pale bar at the base of the breast feathers and the presence of a fine white border around their facial markings.
Common Pochard (Aythya ferina) – HN 1/16-19; KY 1/20-22; HK 1/25. Handsome and relatively approachable, we saw this species on all three islands.
Tufted Duck (Aythya fuligula) – HN 1/16,18; KY 1/22; HK 1/25. Scarcer than most other duck species, we saw a few on each island.
Greater Scaup (Aythya marila) HN 1/16-17; HK 1/25. Most notably in Tokyo Bay, where about 1,250 were tallied from the Kasai Seaside Park grounds.
Harlequin Duck (Histrionicus histrionicus) HK 1/25. Great views at Habomai and Hanasaki harbors, Hokkaido.
Stejneger's Scoter (Melanitta stejnegeri) HK 1/25. A single bird among Black Scoters in Hokkaido. A recent split of the “White-winged Scoter” complex deservedly resulted in three species, this one being that of easternmost distribution. All three are separable by details in bill form and coloration.
Black Scoter (Melanitta americana). HN 1/17; HK 1/25. Common off the Hokkaido coast. AOU split Black Scoter from (Eurasian) Common Scoter (M. nigra) about a decade ago, each showing a distinct bill pattern. Japanese wintering birds are M. americana.
Long-tailed Duck (Clangula hyemalis) HK 1/25. Nice views of several of these off very windy and cold Nemuro Peninsula.
Common Goldeneye (Bucephala clangula) – HN 1/17; HK 1/24-25. Seen in Kasai Seaside Park, Saku Pond, Lake Kussharo and the Nemuro Peninsula.
Smew (Mergellus albellus) PT HN 1/15,18. While a single female was seen in Inbanuma, we greatly enjoyed seeing males and females at the Saku Pond on the 18th. A beautiful species!
Common Merganser (Goosander) (Mergus merganser merganser) – HN 1/16,18; HK 1/24. “Goosander” in Eurasia (M. m. merganser) is a different subspecies than in North America (M. m. americanus).
Red-breasted Merganser (Mergus serrator) HN 1/17; HK 1/25. Coast and harbor in Tokyo Bay, and in Hokkaido.
Green Pheasant (Phasianus versicolor) PT HN 1/15. A stunning male seen nicely on the outskirts of Lake Inbanuma. A Japanese endemic, and the national bird. Differs in color palette than Ring-necked.
Grebes (Podicipedidae)
Little Grebe (Tachybaptus ruficollis) PT HN 1/15-18; KY 1/20-22. Relatively widespread on freshwater ponds, reservoirs, streams, and salt water bays. Not seen in Hokkaido.
Horned (Slavonian) Grebe (Podiceps auritus) – HN 1/16-17. Only a few seen in Honshu.
Red-necked Grebe (Podiceps grisegena) HN 1/25. Seen off the coast from the Nemuro Peninsula.
Great Crested Grebe (Podiceps cristatus) – PT HN 1/15-17; KY 1/22; HN 1/25. Attractive and large grebes seen at numerous locations on all three islands.
Eared (Black-necked) Grebe (Podiceps nigricollis) – PT HN 1/15,17. While a few were at Inbanuma, it was very interesting to see a tight foraging flotilla on Tokyo Bay on the 17th, with about 375 birds simultaneously diving and resurfacing. Birds of the Eurasian P. n. nigricollis subspecies are known as “Black-necked Grebe” – the original name given to this species and arguably a better fit since at this time of year the birds were in their nonbreeding plumage, sporting black-backed necks.
Pigeons & Doves (Columbidae)
Rock Pigeon (Columba livia) – PT HN 1/15-19; KY 1/20-23; HK 1/26. Introduced and widespread. Seen nearly daily at a number of locations.
Oriental Turtle-Dove (Streptopelia orientalis) – PT HN 1/15-17,19; KY 1/20-22. An attractive ornate dove seen well at several sites, particularly in Honshu were it seemed rather common.
White-bellied (Japanese) Green-Pigeon (Treron sieboldii) KY 1/20, 22-23. A difficult bird to see outside of the breeding season. We only glimpsed at a scatter of singles flying high overhead from canopy to canopy in Kyushu.
Rails, Gallinules & Coots (Rallidae)
Brown-cheeked Rail (Rallus indicus) HN 1/15. Scarce and easily overlooked, some of us caught brief views of one through a gap among reeds at the edge of Inbanuma.
Common Moorhen (Gallinula chloropus) PT HN 1/15; KY 1/21. Seen at Inbanuma, and on the stream adjacent to Hotel King in Izumi City. The Eurasian Moorhen is now considered a distinct species from the North American Common Gallinule, (Gallinula galeata), with a different shape to the forehead plate.
Eurasian Coot (Fulica atra) – PT HN 1/15-18; KY 1/20-22. Seen at several locations.
Cranes (Gruidae)
Siberian Crane (Leucogenranus leucogeranus) – KY 1/21. The possibility of seeing this species was a remote prospect for this tour, and on everyone’s hope list, therefore finding it ranked as one of the top experiences of the tour. We first were alerted to a Siberian Crane by one of the rangers at Izumi Crane Conservation Area, who had seen one at a less accessible field. It did not take us long to find the Siberian Crane with a small group of White-naped and Hooded cranes. Its all-white plumage elegantly stood out from the surroundings, and despite its alertness, it allowed us to get relatively close for great views. Considered the most threatened crane in the world, this critically endangered species is not an annual occurrence in Japan. Amazingly, we later found two near each other at the crane roost site among thousands of other cranes arriving at dusk! An unforgettable experience!
Sandhill Crane (Antigone canadensis) KY 1/20-21. Historically a species of North American distribution, it is a rare to uncommon, nearly annual but perhaps regular nonbreeding straggler to Japan. Globally, it is perhaps the most abundant of the 15 crane species, and in the last 50 years it has expanded its nonbreeding range in East Asia. We saw a handful of individuals among thousands of Hooded and White-naped Cranes at Izumi, presumably of the A. c. canadensis subspecies, which also breeds in northeastern-most Russia. Its genus recently changed to Antigone.
White-naped Crane (Antigone vipio) – KY 1/20-22. This beautiful crane is a threatened species with a limited breeding territory ranging from eastern Mongolia and parts of eastern Siberia to China. Thousands winter in Kyushu, and during our visit, it was the second most numerous crane species at Izumi. It is estimated that nearly 50% of the world population of White-napes winter in Japan. Eleven of the world’s fifteen species of cranes are threatened with extinction. It is always memorable to see these graceful birds anywhere; symbols of longevity and fidelity that capture the attention of people the world over. This is a particularly beautiful species, with a statuesque silhouette, bold silver and white pattern, and bare red skin around the eyes.
Hooded Crane (Grus monacha) – KY 1/20-22. The most numerous crane seen in Japan, where 80% of the world population is estimated to winter. Thousands mixed with White-naped Cranes at Izumi. A vulnerable, relatively compact crane with a gray body, white “hood” and neck, and red patch on the forehead. It was a stunning experience to observe thousands coming to roost at sunset, arriving in long v-formations and sounding their bugle calls.
Red-crowned Crane (Grus japonensis) HK 1/24, 26. Despite our delayed arrival to Hokkaido due to heavy snowstorms, we wasted no time upon landing at Kushiro, and headed directly to the Tsurui-Ito Red-crowned Crane Sanctuary, where we found about 100 of these emblematic cranes prancing in the snow. This is the most revered crane in Japan (also known as Japanese Crane) and an important cultural icon in the country and in China. Endangered, with a world population estimated at around 2,750. We again had an opportunity to view and photograph these beautiful cranes at the Kushiro Akan International Center.
Plovers & Lapwings (Charadriidae)
Black-bellied (Gray) Plover (Pluvialis squatarola) – KY 1/22. We found many at the Kuma River estuary. A widespread species worldwide; on all continents except Antarctica.
Northern Lapwing (Vanellus vanellus) – PT HN 1/15; KY 1/21. We saw this beautiful species in Honshu and Kyushu.
Kentish Plover (Charadrius alexandrinus) – KY 1/22. Many were on the mudflats of the Kuma River. Split from Snowy Plover (Charadrius nivosus) by AOU in 2011.
Long-billed Plover (Charadrius placidus) HN 1/18. We found two of these interesting plovers along the Shikuma River near Saku Reservoir. A regional Asian endemic that specializes in foraging along shallow, rocky streams.
Little Ringed Plover (Charadrius dubius) – KY 1/22. A few were on the mudflats of the Kuma River.
Sandpipers & Allies (Scolopacidae)
Eurasian Curlew (Numenius arquata) – KY 1/22. We saw several on the mudflats of the Kuma River.
Dunlin (Calidris alpina) KY 1/22. We found it to be numberous on the mudflats of the Kuma River.
Common Snipe (Gallinago gallinago) – HN 18; KY 1/21. We found a few very cooperative and well observed snipes along the Shikuma River. A distinct species from the snipe formerly known as Common Snipe in North America, the latter now classified as Wilson’s Snipe (Gallinago delicata).
Common Sandpiper (Actitis hypoleucos) – HN 1/18; KY 1/20-22. Seen along rivers and streams, this is the Palearctic counterpart of the Spotted Sandpiper of New World, to which it is very similar.
Green Sandpiper (Tringa ochropus) – HN 1/18; KY 1/21. This species is in many respects similar to the Solitary Sandpiper of the Americas, occupying similar niches and even sporting blackish underwings unlike most other sandpipers.
Common Greenshank (Tringa nebularia) – KY 1/22. The greenshanks are in many respects the Old-World parallels of the Greater Yellowlegs of the Americas. We found many on the flats of the Kuma River.
Gulls, Terns & Skimmers (Laridae)
Saunder’s Gull (Saundersilarus saundersi) – KY 1/21-22. A range restricted and threatened species that breeds almost exclusively on the coasts of China, and at times Korea. With a distinctive tern-like erratic flight, black band under outerwing, it frequently swoops down to mudflats where it pauses momentarily for crustaceans. A highlight of the tour in Kyushu.
Black-headed Gull (Chroicocephalus ridibundus) – PT HN 1/15-16; KY 1/22. Various in Honshu and Kyushu.
Black-tailed Gull (Larus crassirostris) – PT HN 1/15-16; KY 1/22. A relatively common gull in the right habitat. An attractive species of far eastern distribution. Crassirostris refers to its relatively large bill.
Common Gull (Larus canus) – HN 1/16; HK 1/25. Seen in small numbers among other more numerous gull species. Previously considered of a nearly circumpolar distribution, and conspecific with Mew Gull. The Eurasian Common Gull was recently split from its North American counterpart, which is now known as Short-billed Gull (Larus brachyrhynchus).
Herring (Vega) Gull (Larus argentatus vegae) – HN 1/16-17; KY 1/20,22; HK 1/25. Although lesser in numbers than Slaty-backed Gulls, these large larids were found anywhere we encountered congregations of gulls. These birds look similar to American Herring Gulls, though they do wear plumage differences including a darker mantle. The International Ornithological Congress considers it a distinct species: Vega Gull (Larus vegae), which breeds in NE Siberia. However, Clements (our current system) considers vegae one of several subspecies of Herring Gull (Larus argentatus).
Lesser Black-backed (Taimyr) Gull (Larus fuscus taimyrensis); HN 1/16. We saw two taimyrensis type Lesser Black-backeds at the Choshi Port, with middle gray backs, rather than the slate gray backs of heuglini Lesser Black-backed.
Slaty-backed Gull (Larus schistisagus) – HN 1/16; HK 1/25. This large, dark-backed, four-year gull was the most commonly seen gull species in Japan, with a few at Choshi, and hundreds on the Nemuro Peninsula, Hokkaido.
Glaucous-winged Gull (Larus glaucescens) – HK 1/25. Singles were seen at a few sites along the Nemuro Peninsula, picked out from the much more numerous Slaty-backed Gulls.
Glaucous Gull (Larus hyperboreus) – HK 1/25. Singles were seen at a few sites along the Nemuro Peninsula, picked out from the much more numerous Slaty-backed Gulls.
Loons (Gaviidae)
Arctic Loon (Gavia arctica) – HK 1/25. Our time in the Nemuro Peninsula was bitterly cold and very windy. During one of our final stops, at an elevated lookout point from the Ochiishi Port, we were able to get brief views of a group of loons in the waves that included Arctic and Pacific loons. Also known as Black-throated Diver.
Pacific Loon (Gavia pacifica) – HK 1/25. Seen with fewer Arctic Loons off the Nemuro Peninsula. Both are regular wintering species.
Cormorants & Shags (Phalacrocoracidae)
Pelagic Cormorant (Urile pelagicus) – HN 1/16; KY 1/20; HK 1/25. In Japan – the nominate pelagicus subspecies (resplendens in North America) . Recently changed genus from Phalacrocorax.
Great Cormorant (Phalacrocorax carbo) – PT HN 1/15-19; KY 1/20-23; HK 1/26. Often seen. The hanedae subspecies is a year-round resident of Japan. Adults in breeding plumage have significantly more white on their heads than their Atlantic counterparts, and can be deceivingly difficult to separate from Japanese Cormorants without good views.
Japanese Cormorant (Phalacrocorax capillatus) – HN 1/16; KY 1/20. Previously known as Temminck’s Cormorant, this is a regional endemic. Present at Choshi, though in lesser than typical numbers due to persistent rain. Nearly strictly a coastal species. Also seen in Kyushu.
Pelicans (Pelecanidae)
Great White Pelican (Pelecanus onocrotalus) – PT HN 1/15. A single bird in perfect breeding plumage and overall pink blush was seen at Lake Inbanuma. Although the species is considered accidental to the Ryukyu Islands, those in Honshu are considered escapees from aviaries, which have been known to remain in the area for years.
Herons, Egrets & Bitterns (Ardeidae)
Gray Heron (Ardea cinerea) – PT HN 1/15-18; KY 1/20-22. This is another species that at first glance appears familiar, like the Great Blue Heron of North America. Some authorities have considered these two species, along with the Cocoi Heron of South America to form a superspecies coined the “Great Ardea Heron.” It was fun to observe the subtle traits diagnostic of Gray Heron, including the gray “thigh” feathers and lack of any rufous or buff tones overall. A species we saw often in Honshu and Kyushu.
Great Egret (Ardea alba modesta) – PT HN 1/15-16, 18-19; KY 1/20-23. This is the same species that is found in North America, except is it the Australasian A. a. modesta subspecies that winters in Japan. Unlike the American egretta subspecies, during the breeding season, modesta shows an all-dark bill.
Little Egret (Ardea garzetta) – PT HN 1/15-16; KY 1/20-22. The Eurasian counterpart of the Snowy Egret.
Black-crowned Night-Heron (Nycticorax nycticorax) – HN 1/18. Seen only at Saku Pond.
Ibises & Spoonbills (Threskiornithidae)
Eurasian Spoonbill (Platalea leucorodia) – KY 1/21. Scarce in Japan. We saw a few at the Izumi Crane reserve. Easy to overlook for it can blend with nearby egrets. A crowning detail is the black spoonbill with a yellow tip.
Black-faced Spoonbill (Platalea minor) – KY 1/22. This endangered spoonbill is range restricted, with a small wintering distribution in southern Japan. An eastern specialty indeed, separated from the Eurasian Spoonbill by a greater amount of black facial skin around the eyes and forehead.
Osprey (Pandionidae)
Osprey (Pandion haliaetus) – PT HN 1/15-16; KY 1/20-22. Seen during several instances, with more than a dozen resting along the Kuma River. The Eurasian birds look quite different from the typical carolinensis North American Osprey, being darker and more boldly marked, particularly on their breasts.
Hawks, Eagles & Kites (Accipitridae)
Mountain Hawk-Eagle (Nisaetus nipalensis orientalis) – HN 1/19. This large and scarce denizen of forested mountains can be difficult to find. We traveled specifically to the Ura-Myogi mountain ridge in hopes of finding this species. Soon after arriving during the afternoon of the 19th, we heard the shrill scream of a hawk-eagle from high up on the ridges, followed by the persistent scolds of Large-billed Crows, but we could not locate the raptor. After a couple of hours birding along the mountain road, we again heard the scolding crows, and upon finding them high up, exhibiting agitated mobbing behavior, we discovered a Mountain Hawk-Eagle tucked against a tree trunk and watched it at length through the scope. Eventually we saw a second hawk-eagle on the wing, showing molt unlike the first bird. Some authorities separate the Japanese orientalis subspecies as a distinct species, the Japanese Hawk-Eagle. One of the top ranked species of the tour!
Eastern Marsh-Harrier (Circus spilonotus) – PT HN 1/15-16. Only seen in Honshu, at Inbanuma during the pre-trip and at the very productive Ukishima Marsh, where we saw about a dozen. More boldly marked than Western Marsh-Harrier, particularly the males.
Hen Harrier (Circus cyaneus) – PT HN 1/15-16. We saw this species only in Honshu. Recalls the familiar Northern Harrier (C. hudsonius) of the Americas. At one point both were thought to be one species, yet experts clearly understood the differences in their appearance, primarily in wing shape and molting sequence, not to mention distribution. Clements finally accepted this split – somewhat late in the game – and arguments about the classification of these harriers can now be laid to rest.
Eurasian Sparrowhawk (Accipiter nisus) – PT HN 1/15; HK 1/26. We saw this common Palearctic raptor at several locations. Some of our most seasoned birders may remember the term “sparrowhawk” once used in North America for our American Kestrel, a falcon that is not a true hawk. Sparrowhawks, on other hand are true hawks, closely related to our Sharp-shinned and Cooper’s hawks.
Northern Goshawk (Accipiter gentilis) – KY 1/20, 22. Reputably the Japanese fujiyamae is slightly smaller than the North American atricapillus form. Regardless, it is always impressive to see one of these hawks. We saw two birds on the wing in Kyushu.
Black (Black-eared) Kite (Milvus migrans lineatus) – PT HN 1/15-18; KY 1/20-23; HK 1/25-26. A species we saw nearly daily, except on two travel days. This is a beautiful species with a buoyant and delicate flight manner that is always a treat to observe. Some authorities considered the “Black-eared” lineatus (Japan) and formosanus of the east as a separate species.
White-tailed Eagle (Haliaeetus albicilla) – HK 1/24-26. Seen excellently several times in Hokkaido and throughout our time there. It was admired best at the Furen Lake feeding station, where it squabbled with Steller’s Sea-Eagles over frozen carcasses.
Steller’s Sea-Eagle (Haliaeetus pelagicus) – HK 1/24-25. We saw dozens of these amazing, boldly patterned eagles at Furen Lake. Many simultaneously feed on carcasses, competing against White-tailed Eagles. The Steller’s, with their enormous bills and massive heads dwarfed the White-tails, which are actually larger than Bald Eagles – giving you a sense of how large these sea-eagles are! One of the best rated moments of the tour.
Rough-legged Hawk (Buteo lagopus) –HK 1/24-25. Seen twice from the vehicle as we traveled.
Eastern Buzzard (Buteo japonicus) – PT HN 1/15-17; KY 1/20, 22. An attractive buteo seen regularly in Honshu and Kyushu.
Owls (Strigidae)
Blakiston’s Fish-Owl (Ketupa blakistoni) HK 1/24, 26. One of the top birds of the tour, according to participant votes. An endangered species with a range limited to SE Siberia, extreme NE China, Korea, and Japan. Considered by some to be the largest owl species in the world, this is an impressive owl, particularly when seen up close from the comfort of our ryokan, as it comes down to grab fish along the snowy creek. Most saw it late the night of the 24th, when all had given up on our window-side vigil and headed to bed, except for Elena and me. Once the bird settled on its perch, we summoned most of the group and watched the bird for quite some time as a blizzard blew through.
Kingfishers (Alcedinidae)
Common Kingfisher (Alcedo atthis) – PT HN 1/15-16; KY 1/21-23. Despite this being a rather common and widespread species across the Palearctic, there is no denying it’s beautiful electric blue color. It was even mentioned as one of the tour favorites by Pat.
Crested Kingfisher, (Megaceryle lugubris) –KY 1/22; HK 1/26. We first saw one at a distance from the Kogawamura Bridge near the Kogawa Dam, and then again from our ryokan in Hokkaido.
Woodpeckers (Picidae)
Japanese Pygmy Woodpecker (Yungipicus kizuki) – PT HN 1/15, 18-19; KY 1/22-23. A charismatic little woodpecker we heard often – an unlikely buzzy call – and saw plenty.
White-backed Woodpecker (Dendrocopos leucotis) – KY 1/22. One quick flyby over the Kogawamura Bridge was our closest encounter with this elusive woodpecker.
Great Spotted Woodpecker (Dendrocopos major) – HN 1/17-18; HK 1/24-26. This attractive and widespread species was best admired when it came to feeders in Honshu and Hokkaido.
Japanese Woodpecker (Picus awokera) – HN 1/18-19; KY 1/22-23. A beautiful Japanese endemic that we got to see excellently at the Nagakura Park and Shrine, as the bird dug on the mossy forest floor – typical of green Picus woodpeckers – reminiscent of flicker behavior.
Falcons & Caracaras (Falconidae)
Eurasian Kestrel (Falco tinnunculus) – PT HN 1/15-16; KY 1/20-23. A falcon we got to see often in Honshu and Kyushu, in a wide range of habitats, often hovering in search of prey.
Peregrine Falcon (Falco peregrinus) – KY 1/20. We saw a single Peregrine over the Izumi Crane Center.
Cuckooshrikes (Campephagidae)
Ryukyu Minivet (Pericrocotus tegimae) – KY 1/23. A near-endemic to Japan, we experienced some quality time with a pair in the lush forests of the Miike Bird Sanctuary in Kyushu. A much anticipated and charismatic species!
Shrikes (Laniidae)
Bull-headed Shrike (Lanius bucephalus) – PT HN 1/15-16, 18-19; KY 1/21-22. This attractive and brightly colored shrike was seen nearly daily in Honshu and Kyushu.
Crows, Jays & Magpies (Corvidae)
Eurasian Jay (Garrulus glandarius) – HN 1/17-18; KY 1/23; HK 1/26. This species is distributed across much of the Palearctic, with a complex range of variations and 40 subspecies, some of which are quite different in appearance from each other. In Japan, two distinct subspecific groups are represented. The birds we saw in Honshu and Kyushu were of the japonicus and hiugaensis subspecies – sometimes considered part of a separate species, the Japanese Jay (G. japonicus), which is identifiable by its pale crown with streaks, and much black around the eyes and in the moustachial region. However, the Hokkaido birds – G. g. brandtii – look quite different, with a rusty crown, a paler face and smaller moustache – part of an entirely separate lineage some consider yet another species, the Brandt’s Jay. All are beautiful birds with a bold pattern of blue, black and white on the wings.
Daurian Jackdaw (Corvus dauuricus) – KY 1/21. Jackdaws are rather compact corvids that may easily be overlooked as crows by the unaware. However, adults of the Daurian species have a vest-like gray coloration to their bodies, contrasting with the black head, wings, and tail. We saw flocks at Izumi, mixed with other corvids, particularly Rooks. It was interesting to note that several if not most individuals were of the darker form, appearing almost like Western Jackdaws.
Rook (Corvus frugilegus) – KY 1/20-22. We saw large flocks at Izumi.
Carrion Crow (Corvus corone) – PT HN 1/15-19; KY 1/20-22; HK 1/24-26. The widespread all-black crow of the Palearctic – seen almost every day, and only overshadowed by the next species.
Large-billed Crow (Corvus macrorhynchus) – PT HN 1/15-19; KY 1/20-23; HK 1/24-26. A species we saw every day. A larger crow with a proportionately big bill with out-curved culmen. Often heard first, giving a variety of nasal calls somewhat reminiscent of Fish Crows.
Tits, Chickadees & Titmice (Paridae)
Coal Tit (Periparus ater) – HN 1/19; KY 1/23; HK 1/26. A small and elusive denizen of treetops. While in Hokkaido it was mostly heard (P. a. ater), yet we saw it well in Kyushu, where the species is represented by the insularis subspecies, which unlike the prior sports a little black crest above its white nape.
Varied Tit (Sittiparus varius) – HN 1/17-19; KY 1/20, 22-23. A favorite, attractive and widespread species with chestnut on the flanks.
Marsh Tit (Poecile palustris) HK 1/24-26. Seen well visiting the feeders at our ryokan in Hokkaido.
Willow Tit (Poecile montanus) HN 1/18. Seen well visiting the feeders at Shiotsubo Hotel.
Japanese Tit (Parus minor) – PT HN 1/15,17-18; KY 1/20, 22-23; HK 1/24-26. Once considered conspecific with the widespread Great Tit, the Japanese or “Eastern Great” Tit lacks the yellow underparts of its western counterpart. Widespread and common in Japan.
Larks (Alaudidae)
Eurasian Skylark (Alauda arvensis) – PT HN 1/15; KY 1/20-21. A species we saw several times, particularly at Izumi, where birds were engaged in skylarking behavior.
Marshbirds & Allies (Locustellidae)
Marsh Grassbird (Helopsaltes pryeri) – HN 1/16. A threatened regional endemic with very limited distribution. More often heard than seen, and easier to hear during the breeding season when it sings. On the afternoon of the 16th at Ukishima Marsh, we heard the grassbird’s persistent series of dry calls, at times slow, then accelerating and slowing again. A relative of the grasshopper warblers, it is represented by the H. p. pryeri subspecies, which is rich in coloration and known only from Honshu.
Bulbuls (Pycnonotidae)
Brown-eared Bulbul (Hypsipetes amaurotis) – PT HN 1/15-19; KY 1/21-23; HK 1/24-26. The first bird of the tour, and one of the most common birds we encountered throughout Japan. A fun, noisy and attractive bird of forests and parking lots.
Bush Warbler & Allies (Scotocercidae)
Japanese Bush Warbler (Horornis diphone) – HN 1/18; KY 1/20-22. Heard often, giving dry, single scold calls reminiscent of a Marsh Wren, yet hard to see. With some persistence, we got views in Kyushu. A small brownish skulker with a bold white supercilium. Subspecies riukensis and catans occur in Japan.
Long-tailed Tits (Aegithalidae)
Long-tailed Tits (Aegithalos caudatus) – PT HN 1/15, 18-19; KY 1/20, 22-23; HK 1/24. An adorable widespread species with much variation throughout its range. Early in Honshu we saw trivirgatus, with its broad black superciliary bands. However, in Hokkaido we saw caudatus, the snowy version with its all-white head.
White-eyes, Yuhinas & Allies (Zosteropidae)
Warbling White-eye (Zosterops japonicus) – PT HN 1/15, 17, 19; KY 1/20-23. Another bird seen nearly daily in Honshu and Kyushu. In hyper-active little flocks in forests and gardens, beautiful when visiting trees in bloom, as if out of a 17th century Ukiyo-e Japanese print. “The taxonomy of the white-eyes, especially those in the former Japanese White-eye (Z. japonicus) [complex] has been extremely complicated. … species limits are still not fully worked out.” – Birds of the World 2023.
Nuthatches (Sittidae)
Eurasian Nuthatch (Sitta europaea) – HN 1/18; KY 1/23; HK 1/24-26. Everyone loves nuthatches. This widespread species has a wide variety of plumages ranging from very rusty underparts, to nearly all white below, such as those that we saw in Japan. Differing from North American nuthatches, this species makes a sustained series of dry calls.
Treecreepers (Certhiidae)
Eurasian Treecreeper (Certhia familiaris) – HK 1/24. Heard in Hokkaido.
Wrens (Troglodytidae)
Eurasian Wren (Troglodytes troglodytes) – HN 1/17-19; KY 1/22; HK 1/25-26. Seen a number of times, perhaps best along the snowy creek from our ryokan. The birds we saw well in Hokkaido (fumigatus) were very richly colored and dark.
Dippers (Cinclidae)
Brown Dipper (Cinclus pallasii) – KY 1/22; HK 1/26. First seen on Kyushu at Kogawa Dam; also behind our inn at Yoroushi on Hokkaido where a pair chased each other down the creek.
Starlings (Sturnidae)
European Starling (Sturnus vulgaris) – KY 1/21. We had a single encounter with this familiar species, with a few individuals at Izumi. A native and scarce winter visitor.
White-cheeked Starling (Spodiopsar cineraceus) – PT HN 1/15-18; KY 1/21-22. A common and attractive starling with a variable amount of white on the cheek, rump, and underparts.
Thrushes & Allies (Turdidae)
Brown-headed Thrush (Turdus chrysolaus) – PT HN 1/15, 17. A near endemic of Japan. Although a common breeding species, it can be rather scarce in winter. We saw one that ate berries before us at Edogawa and enjoyed it for a while. Not seen outside of central Honshu.
Pale Thrush (Turdus pallidus) HN 1/17, 19; KY 1/20-23; HK 1/26. A rather common bird particularly in Kyushu, that was seen best as it fed on berries atop trees.
Dusky Thrush (Turdus eunomus) – PT HN 1/15-18; KY 1/20-23; HK 1/24. A widespread and common winter visitor to Japan. Beautifully patterned and seen well several times.
Old World Flycatchers (Muscicapidae)
Red-flanked Bluetail (Tarsiger cyanurus) – HN 1/19; KY 1/22-23. Our sole encounter in Honshu was at Ura-Myogi and all too brief. Finally in Kyushu, we caught up with a male and female of this beautiful robin along the bamboo forests of Kogawa and watched a stunning blue male at length.
Daurian Redstart (Phoenicurus auroreus) – PT HN 1/15, 17-19; KY 1/20-23. We saw this attractive redstart [Daurian refers to the region of Transbaikal – also known as Dauria – of southeastern Siberia to the east of lake Baikal]; males and females seen at quite a few sites.
Blue Rock-Thrush (Monticola solitarius) – HN 1/16; KY 1/20, 22. Seen excellently along the rocky bluffs at the Akune Harbor soon after arriving to Kyushu. The philippensis subspecies of Japan is unlike most western subspecies, in which the males are all slate blue. Considered a species of its own by some – the males of the “Red-bellied Rock-Thrush” are dark blue above, and rust below.
Waxwings (Bombycillidae)
Bohemian Waxwing (Bombycilla garrulus) –HK 1/25. Seen by leaders only from the bus in Hokkaido.
Accentors (Prunellidae)
Japanese Accentor (Prunella rubida) – HN 1/19. One bird was briefly seen at Ura-Myogi.
Old World Sparrows (Passeridae)
Russet Sparrow (Passer cinnamomeus) – KY 1/21. We saw a large flock at Izumi. An attractive songbird that is a regional specialty, and reminiscent of the House Sparrow, but a bit smaller. The male sports a bright cinnamon crown and nape, and the female a boldly patterned head and supercilium.
Eurasian Tree Sparrow (Passer montanus) – PT HN 1/15-16, 18; KY 1/20-22; HK 1/24, 26. Common and at times numerous, seen nearly every day.
Wagtails & Pipits (Motacillidae)
Gray Wagtail (Motacilla cinerea) – HN 1/18; KY 1/21-22. The lesser common of the wagtails we saw in Japan. We saw this beautiful species best along the Shikuma River in Honshu, and along the river near Hotel King in Kyushu.
Japanese Wagtail (Motacilla grandis) – PT HN 1/15, 18; KY 1/21-22. A near-endemic to Japan, and marginally larger than White Wagtail. We saw it often in Honshu and Kyushu. Boldly patterned adults with a black hood and back make quite an elegant impression.
White Wagtail (Motacilla alba) – PT HN 1/15-18; KY 1/20-22; HK 1/25. We saw this species nearly daily. Birds of the lugens subspecies – the so-called “Black-backed” Wagtail – being the predominant – if not the sole – representative of this complex species that we saw in Japan.
Olive-backed Pipit (Anthus hodgsoni) – KY 1/23. A richly and boldly patterned pipit, relatively common in the region. Formerly known as “Indian Tree Pipit” because it often perches in trees in lightly wooded areas. We saw several well along Lake Miike.
Red-throated Pipit (Anthus cervinus) – KY 1/20. Heard only in flight.
American (Buff-bellied) Pipit (Anthus rubescens japonicus) – PT HN 1/15-16; KY 1/20-22. A species we saw a number of times in Honshu and Kyushu. While this is currently categorized as the same familiar species found throughout North America, the japonicus subspecies is subtly distinct, with bolder streaking below and pinkish legs, rather than black as in the birds of the Americas. Some authorities consider this a separate species – Buff-bellied Pipit (Anthus japonicus).
Finches, Euphonias & Allies (Fringillidae)
Brambling (Fringilla montifringilla) – KY 1/23. While this can be an irruptive species with huge flocks during winter in Japan, we only encountered about a couple of dozen Bramblings when we visited the stunning Kirishima Jingu Shrine. A beautifully patterned finch.
Hawfinch (Coccothraustes coccothraustes) – HN 1/18. We saw this species briefly at Shiotsubo.
Long-tailed Rosefinch (Carpodacus sibiricus) – HN 1/18. We searched for this species at Shiotsubo and only heard it.
Oriental Greenfinch (Chloris sinica) – PT HN 1/15, 18; KY 1/20-23. A chunky, attractive finch that is represented by at least two subtly different subspecies in the region we visited. More colorful than the familiar European Greenfinch, with rusty tones on the flanks. Seen in large flocks.
Buntings & New World Sparrows (Emberizidae)
Chestnut-eared Bunting (Emberiza fucata) – KY 1/21. A pretty bunting with much chestnut on the auriculars, and patterning on the breast. We encountered a few individuals along the Taira River near Hotel King in Kyushu.
Meadow Bunting (Emberiza cioides) – PT HN 1/15-16, 18-19; KY 1/21-22. A beautiful species we got to appreciate often. The most commonly “seen” bunting during this tour, and seemed more willing to perch out in the open than its congeners.
Reed Bunting (Emberiza schoeniclus) – HN 1/16; KY 1/21. A variable species and rather non-descript in winter; we saw it best along the river at Izumi on the 21st.
Rustic Bunting (Emberiza rustica) – PT HN 1/15, 18. A beautiful species that we caught up with twice in Honshu, along Lake Inbanuma, and along the Shikuma River. During both instances, it was small flocks on trees.
Masked Bunting (Emberiza personata) – PT HN 1/15, 17-18; KY 1/21-22. The most common bunting during this tour, but perhaps the least well seen due to its obligatory skulking behavior – which may be seasonal. We heard its distictive “tink” calls often, but had difficulty observing it. A near-endemic, this species was formerly considered a subspecies of the more widespread Black-faced Bunting (Emberiza spodocephala), but is recognized as separate due to distinctive plumage differences and recent genetic studies.
Overall Summary
The Japan in Winter tour showcased the country’s stunning winter landscapes and incredible biodiversity.
From Honshu’s hot springs and snow-covered forests to Kyushu’s wetlands and Hokkaido’s icy plains, participants experienced a breathtaking range of habitats and wildlife. Highlights included the iconic Red-crowned Cranes dancing in the snow, massive Steller’s and White-tailed Sea-Eagles feeding on frozen lakes, and the endearing Snow Monkeys soaking in hot springs. Birding highlights spanned 142 species, from the critically endangered Siberian Crane to the rare Blakiston’s Fish-Owl.
The tour balanced remarkable birdwatching with rich cultural experiences—historic shrines, immaculate cuisine, and the Japanese sense of order and beauty. With expert guidance from Rafael and Kaz, participants explored Japan’s diverse islands, from subtropical forests to snowy coastlines, in comfort and style.
Day-by-Day Summary
Days 1–2 (Honshu)
Participants gathered near Tokyo, birding around Narita. Early highlights included Mandarin Ducks, Baikal Teal flocks, and mixed swan species.
Day 3
Birding the Choshi coast yielded six gull species and harriers at Ukishima Marsh.
Day 4
At Kasai Seaside Park, birders saw scaup, grebes, and Brown-headed Thrush. The group visited the Snow Monkey Park—Japanese Macaques lounging in thermal pools.
Days 5–6
Karuizawa brought woodpeckers, Smew, Rustic Bunting, and spectacular views of Mt. Asama. At Ura-Myogi, participants observed the impressive Mountain Hawk-Eagle.
Days 7–10 (Kyushu)
Flights south revealed milder weather and an abundance of cranes. At Izumi, travelers saw thousands of Hooded and White-naped Cranes, plus rare Siberian and Sandhill Cranes. Wetlands offered Saunders’s Gulls, Eurasian Spoonbills, and Black-faced Spoonbills. The group explored lush forests near Kirishima Shrine and found Ryukyu Minivets before flying north.
Days 11–14 (Hokkaido)
Subzero conditions brought the grandeur of Red-crowned Cranes and sea-eagles feeding on ice. The group stayed at a traditional hot springs ryokan, where Blakiston’s Fish-Owl appeared at night. Coastal birding added Harlequin and Long-tailed Ducks, loons, and Glaucous Gulls. The trip concluded at the Kushiro Crane Center, followed by a farewell dinner in Tokyo.