-Ian’s take:

A Shikra and a Chinese Sparrowhawk were seen in flight over Nai Harn area on the 5th, possibly signaling the beginning of the spring migration. A Yellow rumped Flycatcher was seen at lame Mum Nai on the same day.

One Siberian Thrush was seen At Laem Mum Nai on the 15th. Blue and White Flycatchers passing though Laem Mum Nai showed a single bird on the 20th, seven on the 221st and two on the 22nd. A Malayan Night Heron was seen at the Waterfall in Ton Sai, perhaps the only place in Phuket to see this difficult species. Other birds from Laem mum Nai were Mugimaki Flyactcher (27th), Yellow rumped Flycatcher (one bird on the 20th and two on the 27th) and an Oriental Cuckoo (27/3).

The last sighting of the wintering Common Buzzard was on the 23rd at Laem Mum Nai.

Cotton Pigmy Goose, an uncommon bird on the west coast, seems to be expanding its range northward. Continue Reading

The Common Kingfisher is an all too common bird. This tiny thing can be found in territories spanning from Asia to Europe. The amazing structure of this bird was no doubt the inspiration behind some of the revolutionary designs which translated into some of the most potent fighters of WW II such as the P-51 Mustang, the Spitfire and Yak 5.

While some people have grown accustomed to seeing this bird, one has to appreciate the amazing blend of colors which make this bird and the other species that make up the kingfisher family some of the most attractive of all birds.

Thanks to Peter Ericsson of use of his photos.