Wildlife Watching in Japan

[Dr. Wolverine]

This thread is long overdue, but here is a thread dedicated to information about wildlife-watching hotspots and species in Japan. Since Japan is home to a variety of endemic wildlife, it is a key destination for any wildlife watcher. Furthermore, the diversity of ecosystems from the high-altitude Japanese Alps to the lush green deciduous forests to the tropical rainforests provide homes for rich biodiverse ecosystems. I will be sharing some key hotspots for native wildlife that many people are not aware about.

 

[Dr. Wolverine]

Kasai Rinkai Park:

Situated near Tokyo Disneyland in Tokyo Bay, this is a famous hotspot for the endangered Black-faced Spoonbill.

During Winter, thousands of scaups and other sea ducks can be seen in the park's pond and coast as well as all five of the Grebe species known to migrate to Japan. The relatively uncommon Saunder's Gull is known to winter here.

From early March to May, around 3-6 Black-faced spoonbills annually migrate here, most of them being juveniles. During the Migratory Season, Shorebirds such as Far Eastern Curlew, Bar Tailed Godwit, Whimbrel, Terek Sandpiper, Common Greenshank, Ruddy Turnstone, and others are known to appear. Other appearances in Migratory Season include Common Terns, as well as the occasional Whiskered tern.

Species that can be spotted here year-long include Common Kingfisher, Common Sandpiper, Great Cormorant, Little Egret, and Grey Heron along with your average everyday birds.