19/08/2009: Kubang Semang (Penang)

I reached the locality just in time to welcome in a brand new day. As it was a little too dark for any bird photography at the time, I decided to try and capture some images of the rising sun.

Immediately after daybreak, I found this Black-winged Kite keeping an eye out for breakfast...

The Zitting Cisticolas were in their usual numbers and their characteristic calls were heard throughout the vicinity. Spotting this tiny but active warbler does not require much work. Obtaining great portraits are and this is one of the few lucky shots I managed to shoot...

I spotted this House Crow up to no good - as usual. This time harassing a poor Brahminy Kite...

Quite a fair number of Striated Herons were out foraging this time - like this rather shy immature bird...

And talking about shy, this foraging Watercock gave me no chance whatsoever...

A White-throated Kingfisher's guide to successful fishing. You must have patience and stand at the same spot for long periods of time. The only thing that breaks your cover is the occasional movement of your head as you scan around for potential prey.

When the opportunity arises, you make your move. However, you have only one chance and there is no room for errors.

And to make sure your prized catch doesn't slipped from your grasp, give a good knock.

I also noticed a number of Cinnamon Bitterns flying about the vicinity this morning and as I was about leave, I spotted a male in breeding plumage resting on top of a clump of paddy stalks. Once he sensed my presence (although my car was a fair distance away), he adopted the typical defensive posture of bitterns.

I remained as motionless as possible in my car and gradually he let down his guard...

And proceeded to perform his territorial display. It involves stretching his neck out low, extend the little fluff of white feathers at the base of his throat and emit a low booming call.

As the bird was so occupied with defending his territory, I slowly drove my car forward and reduced the distance between us. Much to my delight, he just carried on with his alluring performance.