List of Wild Birds Encountered in Yanbaru｜Habitat of the Yanbaru rail and where you can see it
Table of Contents
- 1 Yanbaru is a paradise for birds! What is the attraction of wild birds nurtured by the rich nature?
- 2 Relationship between Yanbaru's Natural Environment and Birds
- 3 List of wild birds you can meet in Yanbaru!
Explanation of species and characteristics
- 3.1 Yanbaru rail Endangered species endemic to Yanbaru
- 3.2 Noguchi woodpecker The only woodpecker in the world
- 3.3 Honduran redbeard Charming and beautiful chirping
- 3.4 Ryukyu red kingfisher (Megaceryle lugubris) Bright red bird
- 3.5 Benign Tern, Erythroa tern One of the leading breeding grounds for terns
- 4 Summary of birding and photography spots in Yanbaru
- 5 Bird watching can be enjoyed! Recommended Yanbaru Tours
- 6 Cautions and Manners for Bird Watching in Yanbaru
- 7 summary
Yanbaru is a paradise for birds!
What is the attraction of wild birds nurtured by rich nature?
Yanbaru," which stretches across the northern part of Okinawa's main island, is a region rich in nature with tropical and subtropical forests.
The area is home to many endemic bird species that are rare in the world, and is known as a "bird paradise.
The unique natural environment created by the diversity of ecosystems supports the existence of precious wild birds!
In this issue.About the types of birds and their ecosystems that can be observed in Okinawa YanbaruWe will explain.
Those who want to know about the ecology of the Yambaru kuina
◆ those who are interested in the species of birds that inhabit Yanbaru
Click here for recommended tours in Yanbaru.
Relationship between Yanbaru's Natural Environment and Birds
Yanbaru is a diverse mix of environments, including old-growth forests, mountain streams, wetlands, and coasts.
The pristine nature and subtropical climate allow for a wide variety of plants to grow and an abundance of insects and small animals that depend on them.
As a result, wild birds at the top of the food chain are also diversifying.â
Particularly noteworthy are the Okinawa rail and the Okinawa woodpecker.Existence of "endemic species"It is.
These are precious birds that can only live because of the nature of Yanbaru.
Encountering these globally protected species is truly a unique experience in Yanbaru!
Why are birdwatchers paying attention?
Yanbaru is a popular spot visited by many birdwatchers from Japan and abroad. There are three reasons for this
2. a variety of bird species can be seen throughout the year
3. the unspoiled natural environment is ideal for observation.
In addition, the area is valued for its abundance of resident birds (a general term for birds that live in the same place throughout the year), such as red-winged blackbirds, which are easy to observe!
Because of the wide variety of specialized guided tours,Beginners can also enjoy it with ease.It is.
Click here for recommended tours in Yanbaru.
A list of birds that can be found in Yanbaru!
Explanation of types and characteristics
More than 200 species of birds have been observed in Yanbaru, and here we introduce some of the most representative bird species.
Okinawa rail (Gallirallus okinawae)
Endangered species endemic to Yanbaru
The bird that symbolizes Yanbaru is the Yanbaru rail.
It was discovered in 1981 and attracted worldwide attention.A national special natural treasure found only in Japanand is classified as Endangered IA.
Ecology of the Okinawa rail
The Okinawa rail is a medium-sized bird, about 30 cm long,Cannot flyThey live by walking on the ground and feed on insects such as worms and snails. They live on foot on the ground and feed on worms, snails, and other insects.
It is thought that because there were no predators on the ground to serve as natural enemies, they became adept at searching for food on the ground instead of in the air☆.
They are territorial and make loud cries in the morning and evening.Distinctive "kekekekeke" cryand echoes well in the forest.
Locations where Okinawa rail can be seen and tips for observing them
The Okinawa rail can be found in the mountainous forest areas of Kunigami, Ogimi, and Higashi villages in the northern part of Okinawa's main island.
At night, though, they rest in the trees,It appears along the forest road during the daytime.The following is a list of the most common problems with the "C" in the "C" column.
Binoculars and silent cameras are effective for observation. Also, search with a professional guide to increase the detection rate!
Okinawa woodpecker (Sapheopipo noguchii)
The only woodpecker in the world
The Noguchi woodpecker is a species of woodpecker found only in the Yanbaru forest. It too is listed as an endangered species (Class IA).
Beautiful red head and black feathersand is a wild bird with an outstanding presence.
Points of observation, such as calls and behavior patterns
Noguchi woodpeckers emit a high-pitched "kyot, kyot" call and peck at the bark to look for insects.
They are more active in the morning and evening, and are often observed especially in areas with many fallen or rotting trees.
The key is to quietly search your surroundings for clues in the sound of their cries★.
dwarf mondo grass (Ophiopogon japonicus)
Charming and beautiful chirping
The hontoa red-breasted nuthatch is a small bird, about 14 cm in length, and is a resident bird of the Okinawa main island and the Kerama Islands.
Males have a red breast, black face, and white brow line.The beauty of the chirping "Hee Hee Hee Hee Hee HeeIt is also known for its
Ecology of the Honou red-breasted moustache
They live mainly in the forest understory and feed on insects and spiders.
During the breeding season, males make beautiful calls and assert their territory. The key to observing them is to look for them quietly, relying on their sounds!
Ryukyu red snapper (Lutjanus ryukyuensis)
Bright red bird
It is a "migratory bird" that flies in from Southeast Asia in the summer,Beautiful reddish-brown body color all overThe species can also be observed on Amami Oshima Island and other islands. It can be observed on Amami Oshima and other islands.
 They are known for their distinctive voice, "kyororororororororo."
Ecology of the Ryukyu Red Kite
They inhabit streams and forests, feeding on small fish and insects.
The way they perch still on the branches of a tree and aim at their prey.Very photogenicIt is also popular with many photographers in the â
Benia tern, Erythroa tern
One of the leading breeding grounds for terns
The coastal areas of Yanbaru are,Important breeding grounds for ternsThe first two are the following.
There are only a few breeding grounds in the world for the Benin's Tern, and in Japan, the coastal area of Okinawa is one of them.
Ecology of terns
Terns feed on fish at sea and breed in groups on uninhabited islands and rocks.
They came in around May.Since they raise their young on coastal reefs, the peak observation period is from June to August. Careful observation is required, including staying away from nests.
Summary of birding and photography spots in Yanbaru
The following are recommended bird watching spots in Yanbaru.
◆Kunigami Village Forest Park: Well-maintained walking trails are good for beginners
◆Keysaji River mangrove forest: Migratory birds such as the Ryukyu Red-crowned Night-heron can be seen.
Around Cape Hendo: Area where terns are known to breed.
Early morning and evening hours are the easiest times to encounter birds.Binoculars or a camera with a telephoto lens will enhance your observation.
Bird watching can be enjoyed!
Recommended Yanbaru Tour
Many guided bird-watching tours are offered in Yanbaru.
Guides with extensive knowledge of Yanbaru will take you on routes where you can observe Yanbaru rail and Noguchi guerra with high probability.
andEnjoy observing while listening to birders' knowledge.You can enjoy the nature of Yanbaru even more deeply because of the
Click here for recommended tours in Yanbaru.
Yanbaru Walking Tour
This plan includes a 2-hour walk through Yanbaru forest with a guide.
While walking along the flat, paved path, visitors can observe endemic species such as the Okinawa rail, Okinawa woodpecker, and Japanese red-backed woodpecker.
Qualified guides provide detailed explanations of ecology and characteristics.The area offers a wide range of activities, from the beauty of nature and the spectacular views of the Yanbaru mountains, to the culture and lifestyle of Yanbaru.
Click here for recommended walking tours
Click here for Yanbaru Trekking Tour
river trekking
This 3-hour activity explores the unexplored areas of Yanbaru, including Ta Falls.
The main thing is to play in the water at the waterfall,Trekking to the waterfall to observe the rich subtropical nature and diverse flora and faunaCan be done.
Participants must be at least 3 years old to participate,Fun for the whole familyThe first two are the following.
We also offer free photo and video service during the tour to help you make memories. â
Click here for recommended river trekking tours
Learn more about trekking in Okinawa
ATV or amphibious vehicle exploration tour
This is a two-hour activity in which participants explore the jungle in vehicles such as baby carriages and amphibious vehicles.
Enjoy the feeling of a fun attraction just by riding!Visitors can enjoy playing in the water at the waterfall basin and communing with the abundant nature.
The event is held even in the event of rain, making it possible to participate without worrying about the weather.
Learn more about buggy tours
Click here for Yanbaru Amphibious Vehicle Tour
Cautions and Manners for Bird Watching in Yanbaru
Many of the creatures of the Yanbaru forest are listed as endangered species and are protected.
Fat: Do not imitate squeals
Fat flash photography is discouraged
Fat: Never approach nests during the breeding season.
For example, the Okinawa rail, an endemic species, lives on the ground, but the introduction of non-native species such as mongoose and wildcat has caused a decline in its population.
Not only that, but roadkill, i.e.Traffic accidents on the roadis also a problem.
Fat: Do not enter any areas other than boardwalks and forest trails.
◯Utilize local guides and information to deepen understanding of nature conservation
summary
Yanbaru is a special place on the main island of Okinawa where you can encounter some of the rarest wild birds.
Bird watching in this forest, where the Yanbaru kuina and other endemic species live only here in the world, will be a once-in-a-lifetime experience.
Please enjoy the nature of Yanbaru with all your senses while observing etiquette!
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