Off to the Hills

Breakfast was another interesting mix of Asian and western cuisine, we are far more sanguine today and all feeling a little jet-lagged - I had been awake since 2 am, and unable to get much sleep since, our 7am breakfast was a welcome start to the day.

Taipei Skyline

Bags packed and we were off to join the main freeway running down the west of the island taking a coastal route south and then up into more hilly territory.

We stopped at various sites along the way during the morning, repeating some of our sightings from yesterday and adding Dunlin, Red-necked Stint, a very distant and unidentifiable gull, and over 100 Black-winged Stilt.

An accipiter appeared at one stage, possibly Besra, but as we were hurtling along the motorway it was hard for our experts to positively id it.  

After spending some time examining paddy fields and a river it was time for the long stage of our journey, so out came the books, diaries and iPods for some and snoozing for the others (who shall remain nameless!).

Lunchtime bird-watching spot

We stopped at a restaurant for lunch along the way and added Grey-capped Pygmy-woodpecker, Crested Goshawk and Collared Finchbill.   At a stop to buy beer for the next three nights we had Striated Swallow with Barn Swallow, allowing a great close comparison of the two species.

We arrived at Dasyueshan Recreational Park around 4.45 pm, got our keys and then went off up the road to an area where Swinhoe's Pheasant are fed.   Without much delay a male appeared, fed for a short while and then delighted us all by scurrying across the road giving a great view.   Once again we were pleased to
see various photographers staking out the birds and taking an interest, although probably not birdwatchers in the truest sense of the word, they at least appreciate the birds for their beauty - and presumably the kudos and money that follow when a good picture is taken!

Taiwan Sibia, Taiwan Yuhina and Steer's Liocochla were heard and seen well, and a Fairy Pitta called but remained (as expected) hidden.   Dusky Fulvetta also called but remained off my seen list.   Grey-hooded Fulvetta showed momentarily.

Swinhoe's Pheasant and Red-bellied Tree Squirrel

All the while we had White-whiskered Laughing-thrush jumping about at our feet and looking for food as they have become used to taking advantage of the feeding stations set out for the pheasants.

We wandered along the road, and after a while our driver beckoned us to join him, signalling that we should be quiet in our approach.   Just over the railing at the roadside, at another area where grain is thrown, a Taiwan Partridge fed, oblivious to the gathering photographers above.

Excellent views were had by most of us.   Then it was time to check-in, eat and have an early night before the rigours of another day's hard birdwatching - hopefully Mikado Pheasant awaits us.