The beautiful birds in Japan are not only the rich diversity of species but also the exquisite harmony with the country's beautiful natural landscapes. With over 600 bird species documented and observed, Japan has become an ideal destination for nature and bird enthusiasts.
From the renowned red-crowned cranes in Hokkaido to rare species like the Okinawa rail in the southern islands, each bird is a living masterpiece. In the refreshing air of dense forests, immersed in the gentle melodies of bird songs and surrounded by breathtaking natural scenery, observing and capturing the moments of birds in Japan becomes an unforgettable experience.
The charm of these birds goes beyond their mystical shapes and colors; it lies in their integration into diverse habitats, creating a harmonious picture between humans and nature. With beauty concealed in every gesture, song, and plumage color, the world of Birds of Japan offers a wonderful experience that stimulates the senses and enriches the souls of nature lovers.
Below are the top 10 beautiful birds in Japan:
1. Red-Crowned Crane
At the top of the list, it cannot be ignored the Red-Crowned Crane, commonly known as Tancho in Japan, is a symbol of cultural and ecological significance in East Asia. Towering at 150 to 158 cm with a weight ranging from 8 to 11 kg, these magnificent birds exhibit an unmistakable red crown, particularly vibrant during the breeding season. Their wingspan, measuring from 200 to 260 cm, adds to their majestic presence, and they are known for their elaborate courtship displays and synchronized dances.
Remarkably, the global population of the Red-Crowned Crane is relatively small, with less than 3,000 individuals worldwide. However, Hokkaido, the northernmost island of Japan, boasts a significant portion of this population, harboring over one-third of the entire Red-Crowned Crane community. This lends a special significance to Hokkaido as a sanctuary for these iconic birds.
Beyond their ecological role, the Red-Crowned Crane holds a special place in Japanese culture, symbolizing longevity, good luck, and fidelity. With a lifespan exceeding 60 years, these cranes embody the delicate interplay between nature and tradition, making encounters with them a captivating and culturally rich experience.
2. Daurian Redstar
The Daurian Redstart, scientifically named Phoenicurus auroreus, is a small passerine bird primarily found in temperate regions of Asia. Measuring between 14 to 15 cm in length and weighing around 11 to 20 g, it boasts striking plumage characterized by a vibrant orange-red tail on males, while females exhibit more subdued tones with brownish-gray feathers. Their migratory patterns contribute to their allure, as they navigate across Asia during different seasons.
In Japan, it is known as "Jobitaki," and it's a species highly regarded among bird enthusiasts and photographers. Renowned bird photographer Blain, during a Japan private birding photo tour on Sado Island, captured the beauty of this Daurian Redstart. Sado Island, situated off the coast of Niigata Prefecture in Japan, offers diverse habitats, making it an attractive location for birdwatching.
These redstarts favor a variety of habitats, including forests, woodland edges, and parks, where they forage for insects, spiders, and berries. Their agile and lively behavior, coupled with their striking appearance, makes them a sought-after subject for birdwatchers and photographers alike.
3. Brown-eared Bulbul
The Brown-eared Bulbul, scientifically referred to as Hypsipetes amaurotis, is indigenous to Japan and is also prevalent across various parts of Eastern Asia. Known by several alternate names such as the Asian Brown-eared Bulbul, Chestnut-eared Bulbul, and Eurasian Brown-eared Bulbul, this species holds a significant presence in the avian landscape of the region.
In Japan, these bulbuls exhibit a fascinating behavior during the arrival of spring. They're often observed sipping on the sweet nectar of the earliest blooming cherry blossoms known as the Kawazu Sakura Cherry Tree. These trees bloom punctually in February, heralding the onset of spring just outside Tokyo, Japan. This remarkable synchrony between the arrival of these bulbuls and the cherry blossoms paints a picturesque scene, capturing the essence of nature's seasonal transitions in the country.
4. Rustic Bunting
The Rustic Bunting, scientifically known as Emberiza rustica, belongs to the passerine family Emberizidae, which was historically associated with finches (Fringillidae) but now stands as a distinct species. These buntings are known as regular migrants in Japan, adding vibrancy to the country's avian diversity. Their distinct appearance and behavior make them both delightful and captivating subjects for birdwatchers and photographers.
In Japan, a nation rich in biodiversity, these buntings contribute to its reputation as a haven for bird enthusiasts. With a documented count of over 600 bird species, Japan offers a diverse range of habitats that cater to various avian species, including migratory birds like the Rustic Bunting.
Characterized by their subtle yet charming appearance, Rustic Buntings exhibit a mix of brown and beige plumage with streaks and speckles, making them visually appealing against natural backdrops. Their presence during migration seasons adds a special allure to Japan's birdwatching opportunities, attracting enthusiasts eager to observe and photograph these winged travelers.
5. Ruddy Kingfisher
The Ruddy Kingfisher, scientifically termed Halcyon coromanda, boasts a vast range encompassing regions from South Korea and Japan in the northern extremities to the Sunda Islands in the south, and extending westward to China and India. This migratory bird's route sees northern populations journeying as far south as Borneo during winter, highlighting the impressive span of its migration.
Despite being locally common in the southern parts of its range, the Ruddy Kingfisher remains a rarity in Japan, elevating its status as a highly coveted sighting among birders. Its striking appearance, coupled with its elusive nature, contributes to its allure and makes it a prized find for enthusiasts and birdwatching aficionados.
These kingfishers favor forested habitats ranging from temperate to tropical zones, displaying a preference for dense jungles and rainforests. Their vivid plumage and distinctive calls add to the allure, drawing attention from birders seeking to spot and photograph these magnificent birds in their natural habitats.
6. Black Kite
The Black Kite (Milvus migrans) is a medium-sized bird of prey belonging to the family Accipitridae, known for its adaptability and widespread distribution. Found globally, it's recognized as the most abundant species within the Accipitridae family, boasting a current global population of approximately 6 million individuals. In Japan, the Black Kite is a common and easily observed species, thriving in diverse habitats ranging from urban areas to open countryside.
Distinctive in appearance, black kites typically have a forked tail and a wingspan of around 155 to 180 cm. Their plumage varies, ranging from dark brown to black, with lighter areas on the head and neck. Known for their opportunistic hunting behavior, these raptors display a scavenger-like approach, often relying on their keen eyesight and agility during flight to locate prey. They are skilled soarers, spending a significant portion of their time gliding and soaring on thermal updrafts in search of food.
7. Azure-winged magpie
The Azure-winged magpie, scientifically known as Cyanopica cyana or commonly referred to as Onaga, belongs to the Corvid family, sharing kinship with crows and jackdaws. However, these striking birds distinguish themselves through their exquisite features: they sport captivating light blue long tails and wings, complemented by a raspy back, white throats, and distinctive black caps. Typically measuring between 31 to 36 centimeters in length, their Japanese name, Onaga, directly translates to "long tail," a fitting descriptor for this species.
These birds whistle and trill when in groups fired fast with a distinctive-sounding kwink-kwink-kwink followed by a single krarrah. They thrive in sizable numbers across Japan and eastern Asia, often congregating in flocks that can reach up to 30 individuals, sometimes even soaring in groups of up to 80.
8. Eurasian nuthatch
The Eurasian nuthatch (Sitta europaea) or wood nuthatch is a small passerine bird found throughout temperate Asia and in Europe, where its name is the nuthatch.
It is mainly a mountain bird in southern Japan. These territorial birds emit a diverse range of calls and construct nests primarily in tree cavities or abandoned woodpecker holes, incorporating materials like bark, feathers, and grass.
It features a blue-grey upper plumage and a chestnut-colored underbelly, complemented by a black eye stripe, giving it a masked visage.
Renowned for its exceptional ability to climb down trees headfirst, the Eurasian Nuthatch thrives in a variety of wooded environments, including deciduous and coniferous forests. Its foraging habits encompass a diet consisting of insects, seeds, and nuts, utilizing its robust beak to crack open shells.
9. Steller's sea eagle
The Steller's sea eagle ( Haliaeetus pelagicus) is a large diurnal bird of prey in the family Accipitridae. It was originally described by Peter Simon Pallas in 1811. No subspecies are recognised.
Steller's sea eagles that migrate fly south to spend the winter in rivers and wetlands in Japan, but occasionally they also move to mountainous inland areas instead of the seacoast. Each winter, drifting ice on the Sea of Okhotsk drives thousands of these eagles south. The ice reaches Hokkaido in late January. They are the champions among raptors, glacial relics that have survived several ice ages. Somehow, they seem immune to the passage of time.
They are such extremely rare and formidable birds of prey that they have been around since the day of the dinosaurs, representing near evolutionary perfection, and with its deep piercing voice ra-ra-ra-raurau, those who have been in their presence “in the wild” have heard the echoes of the Steller’s dinosaur legacy.
10. Mallard duck
The mallard or wild duck (Anas platyrhynchos) is a freshwater duck which usually feeds in shallow water by dabbling and upending. The male drake ducks have a glossy green head and grey on the wings and belly. Both sexes have white bordered black, or iridescent blue feathers called a speculum on their wings.
They is a medium-sized duck species found worldwide in diverse habitats, from freshwater lakes to urban parks. They are a common species in Japan. Their adaptable nature allows them to thrive in various environments and even urban settings.
Mallards are omnivorous, feeding on aquatic plants, insects, and grains. They form pairs during breeding season, nesting on the ground near water bodies. While some populations migrate seasonally, others remain in their habitats year-round. Mallards serve as both game birds for hunters and contributors to ecosystems through seed dispersal and insect control.
Japan's avian splendor harmonizes with its stunning landscapes, boasting over 600 bird species. From the regal Red-Crowned Crane to the elusive Okinawa Rail, each bird embodies nature's living art. Amidst forest melodies and breathtaking vistas, observing these creatures intertwine with Japan's habitats becomes an indelible experience. More than their vibrant hues, their seamless integration into diverse ecosystems reflects a harmonious coexistence. With each song, flight, and plumage, Japan's avian world captivates, enriching the senses and nurturing the souls of nature enthusiasts, offering a glimpse into the intricate dance between humanity and nature.
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