NTL2, Pulau Punggol 05Nov10

From KH

Con, Danny and I started off at NTL2 this morning. It was nice to see a Black-capped Kingfisher and a Common Moorhen at the marsh, but skulking Lanceolated Warblers refused to show... Also present were common migrants like Common Kingfisher, Ashy Minivet, Arctic Warbler, Brown Shrike, Barn Swallow, pond-heron and Blue-tailed Bee-eater. Raptor-wise, we had: 2 CHE (1 pale young and another heard), 1 BWK, 2 adult WBSE and 1 juv Japanese Sparrowhawk (it missed while chasing a bird!).

Juvenile Japanese Sparrowhawk ©Con Foley

The highlight at NTL2, however, was a brilliantly coloured adult Asian Pied Starling at d'Kranji Resort. Then at the NSRCC entrance, Danny spotted another Asian Pied Starling, a juvenile this time. Wonder if they are migrants or just escapees. Who would keep a dull-looking juv for pet? Or is there a breeding feral population here unknown to us?

Adult Asian Pied Starling ©Tan KH

As SBWR was having some event, we made an early detour to Pulau Punggol. By 10.40 am, we were at the site and immediately a dark Booted Eagle was seen circling above its favourite haunt! This time the landing lights and distinctive upperparts pattern stood out clearly. Too bad, no photos, but glad to have it back. Also present was 1 Osprey, 1 adult male Chinese Sparrowhawk (feeding on a bird), 1 WBSE, 2 Brahminy Kite (1 adult, 1 juv), 1 hovering BWK and 1 CHE (heard).

Male Chinese Sparrowhawk ©Con Foley

Con also saw our first Black Baza of the season at the Seletar West exit. 9 raptor species today. Not as good as Pencil Hill, but not too bad for Singapore! :)