Meet the locals #9

Black Browed Reed Warbler Acrocephalus bistrigiceps




Another species which may not be so well known to birders outside NE Asia.

This is a summer visitor to Hokkaido and usuually arrives in late May, leaving in early September. It is found across east Asia and winters in SE Asia. In Hokkaido it is a common bird in the grasslands and marshes and their song can be heard in many locations around Hakodate. In habits it is similar to the Eurasian Reed Warbler.





They are not shy (unlike the bigger noisier Oriental Reed warblers) and allow a fairly close approach especially in June when they are staking out their territories.





They are reliant on long grasses to breed, unfortunately farmers cut the grass back in June/July and I guess some nests must be destroyed as a result. There are still plenty of wild grasslands for them to breed in though..................for now amyway.

Here is a video I made 3 or 4 years ago of one singing just outside Hakodate.

Another Black Browed Reed Warbler from Stuart Price on Vimeo.

This field disappeared and is now part of the new shinkansen line..........................