カリガネ、ムギマキなど / Lesser White-fronted Goose and Mugimaki Flycatcher

Autumn is a busy time for many reasons. There are many school events, work is starting to prepare for the next fiscal year, and yet information about the appearance of birds is relentless (thank goodness…). I am forced to think about getting around efficiently on my limited days off.

Morning sun and a Grey heron silhouette, background tinted orange
朝日とアオサギ / Morning sun and a Grey Heron | Nikon D500 + AF-S NIKKOR 500mm f/5.6E PF ED VR

First of all, there was a juvenile Lesser White-fronted Goose. There had been reports of sightings for some time, but I had not been able to go see them. Fortunately, it was still lounging in the same spot, so I was able to find it quickly.

A juvenile Lesser White-fronted Goose swimming in the channel
With a Mallard, which seems to be a good friend. I heard that it is confusing with a juvenile Greater White-fronted Goose, but this one has a yellow eye ring, which is considered to be a characteristic of the Lesser White-fronted Goose.
Lesser White-fronted Goose standing in the meadow. Illuminated by the morning sun.
When I came around to take a picture in the forward light, It was out in the grassy area in good condition. Cute.

Next, I went further afield to look for Mugimaki Flycatcher. The previous visitor commented that there was no sign of them this morning, but after a short wait, they did show up.

female Mugimaki Flycatcher eating the fruit of Fagara ailanthoides
They make regular patrols to feed on the berries of Fagara ailanthoides (kind of Japanese pepper). At the earliest, they came every five minutes or so, but their pace slowed down after 11:00.
male Mugimaki Flycatcher
Not many males were seen, unfortunately only photographic evidence.
a female Mugimaki Flycatcher, angle from below
The yellow color is much darker. However, the head is light-colored, so is it a female?
female Mugimaki Flycatcher eating the fruit of Fagara ailanthoides
Mugimaki Flycatcher female peeking out from a branch
Closest shot of the day.
A Willow Tit
A Willow Tit also came along.
A Brambling eating red berries
On the way back home, Bramblings were gathering to eat the red berries. A variety of birds come to the tree in search of berries.
Brambling's back view
Brambling’s hip.

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