2026-03-24: Finches in Jeolmul Natural Recreational Forest

 My primary purpose for an early spring visit to Jeolmul on the east side of Hallasan was to look for wildflowers that bloom in this season. But of course birds were on the plate as well, and I had very pleasant views of Eurasian Siskins, Bramblings, and a Hawfinch. Most were getting into breeding plumage, which along with the flowers added a lot of nice contrast to the drab browns of early spring.

Eurasian Siskin

Eurasian Siskin

Brambling

Brambling

Hawfinch standing out among the Bramblings

Warbling White-eyes were enjoying the scene as well.

2026-03-21: Early Spring on Hallasan

 A hike up Hallasan in early spring via Eorimok and Yeongsil trails. Plenty of activity with the smaller tit species, some Japanese Waxwings feasting on berries, an orange stealing crow, and a Cinereous Vulture soaring overhead.

Varied Tit

White Wagtail

Japanese Waxwing

Japanese Waxwing

Coal Tit

Large-billed Crow with a treat

Large-billed Crow

Eastern Roe Deer

Brambling

Cinereous Vulture

White-backed Woodpecker

2026-03-08: Mara-do

 A very early spring visit to Mara-do to see if migration had started. Just the usual March regulars with a Kestrel, White-cheeked Starlings, Rusting Buntings, a Hoopoe, and various gulls. All expected species on Mara in March. Nice views of a Eurasian Skylark back on the mainland, too.

Fishing boat decoration

Blue Rock Thrush

Taimyr Gull

Japanese Cormorant

Eurasian Hoopoe

Eurasian Hoopoe

Rustic Bunting

Eurasian Kestrel

White-cheeked Starlings

Eurasian Tree Sparrow

Mongolian Gull (or Vega?)

Eurasian Skylark at Alddreu Airfield