Just
when I thought I have seen everything there is to see at Air Hitam Dalam, an
image of a male Green-backed Flycatcher taken from this locality was posted on
Facebook. I have seen this rare migrant only once at another locality a long
time ago but with my digiscoping setup at that time, obtaining a photo was
simply out of the question. And if that was not enough, a few birders starting
posting images of a roosting Large-tailed Nightjar as well. Common as it may
be, it is not easy to locate this nocturnal species in the daytime because its
cryptic plumage blends perfectly into the surrounding environment.
Both
James Neoh and Peng Seng were kind enough to share the location of the
flycatcher and nightjar respectively. The first opportunity I had to try and
obtain the photograph of both birds came on a beautiful Friday afternoon. I
dipped out on the flycatcher despite much effort but the nightjar, which was
the secondary target, performed well. Well enough to almost vanquish my earlier
disappointment with the flycatcher.
Although
the nightjar was confiding, it was roosting among clumps of Nipah Palms in the
swamp with little choice of shooting angles. The harsh lighting at that time
was also another hindrance. But it was a memorable experience and I made the
best of out of the situation. So, thanks to the guys for their willingness to
share. In fact I would to take this opportunity to thank again all those who
had in the past, one way or the other, shared their sightings that which some
had even ended up as lifers for me.
This
goodwill gesture may seem like a natural thing to do but unfortunately for a
small minority, it is not. I don't see the harm in sharing sightings, with the
exception of sensitive nesting birds, and knowledge. To me, the wonders of birding
are meant to be shared. It does not matter if birding is just a hobby or a
profession. I do birding tours on my free time but I do not regard the birds as
trade secrets and my fellow bird guides as adversaries. Then again, that is me.
But I am truly grateful I am not the only one. Now, back to sharing what I
encountered on this trip.
The
migratory Black Kites are back in good numbers. Although they are known to
scavenge among rubbish dumps in other countries, I have not witness this
behaviour here in Malaysia.
In fact, I find them to be quite elegant with their graceful flight and slender
silhouette.
At
the car park area later in the afternoon, there was a big convoy of cars that
has just arrived. I guess it must be the MNS Selangor Branch Bird Group that
were having a long trip up north and when familiar faces got out of the cars,
my initial guess was right on the dot. This group had a good mix of experienced
and new birders. And what better way to catch up with old friends and greet new
ones than to share the top performers of this locality with them. As expected,
both the Yellow-rumped and Mangrove Blue Flycatcher put on a great performance
and the SBBG got to enjoy some warm Penang
hospitality courtesy of my feathered friends.
To
wrap up another great trip to this locality for me and the visiting birders was
this Buffy Fish-owl that showed itself in the open long enough for everyone to
have a good look. For some, this was their first owl sighting in the wild and
the excitement on their faces said it all. Who could blame them? Heck, I have
been birding for more than 20 years and this sighting still does it for me. I
only hope that in the years to come, these new birders will also come to share
and contribute towards a better birding community here in Malaysia and I
have a good feeling they will.
2 comments:
Sight of a bird like Buffy Fish Owl should convert people to birding for life !
I couldn't agree more, John!
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