Taiwan Bird Race

Taking part in the Dasyueshan Bird Race was a great start to my time in the wonderful country of Taiwan. With my group not arriving until Monday and just a few 'westerners' present I was made to feel very welcome indeed and it was great to see so many Taiwanese birders thoroughly enjoying the event. They were so helpful and willing to offer advice, despite the alleged 'competitive' edge to the day - something a few Brits could learn from! Anyway, thanks to Richard Foster for his company and local knowledge and letting me join his team.

Well, I managed to see 16 currently recognised endemics, along with Taiwan (Vinaceous) Rosefinch and Taiwan (Viviv) Niltava - these last 2 might be split soon. Also heard Taiwan Cupwing. A few other nice birds seen today included White-bellied Green-pigeon, Grey-cheeked Fulvetta, Spotted Nutcracker (future split?), Ferruginous Flycatcher, Black-throated Tit and Yellowish-bellied Bush-warbler amongst others.

One feature of the birding at Dasyueshan Mountain was the great views of the birds. Highlights not photographed were Taiwan Shortwing, Taiwan Bush-warbler, Taiwan Bush-robin, Rufous-crowned Laughingthrush, Taiwan Yuhina and Taiwan Fulvetta.

Here's a few photos from the day:

Swinhoe's Pheasant (female)

Mikado Pheasant (female)

Flamecrest

Steere's Liocichla

White-whiskered Laughingthrush

White-eared Sibia

Taiwan Whistling-thrush

Taiwan Hill-partridge

Vinaceous (Taiwan) Rosefinch

Taiwan Barwing

Collared Bush-robin