Bird Knowledge
Water birds
Waterfowl are divided into two categories: swimming birds and wading birds. Swimming birds refer to aquatic birds that float on the water surface like ducks. Wading birds, on the other hand, are wading birds like snipe. The former look for food directly in the water. For example, ducks dive underwater. The latter use their relatively long legs to search for food in the mudflats. Generally speaking, waterbirds are relatively exposed and are easier to photograph.
forest birds
Woodland birds are different from waterfowls. This term is more of a general reference, including all the birds that live in the woods. Compared with waterbirds, forest birds generally have more vivid colors and louder songs. However, for photographers, forest birds are hidden among the trees and are difficult to spot. They can only rely on listening to the sounds to determine the location and then search in a general direction.
Waterfowl Detailed Introduction
Waterfowl primarily inhabit wetland areas, lakes, rivers, and other aquatic environments, with traits that make them well-adapted to life in and around water, such as swimming, diving, and foraging.
1. Duck Family (Anatidae)
Representative species: Mallard, wild duck, northern pintail, black geese, etc.
Habitat: Lakes, rivers, wetlands, etc.
Characteristics: Ducks have flat bills and strong webbed feet, well-suited for swimming and diving. Most spend a lot of time on the water's surface and forage by dipping their bills into the water to catch food. Ducks are omnivorous, eating aquatic plants, small fish, insects, and more.
Breeding habits: Ducks usually build nests near water, and during the breeding season, they often form large flocks.
2. Heron Family (Ardeidae)
Representative species: Great egret, little egret, night heron, grey heron, etc.
Habitat: Shallow waters, wetlands, river mouths, lakes, etc.
Characteristics: Herons are characterized by long legs and necks, ideal for standing in shallow waters to forage. They primarily catch small fish, frogs, and aquatic insects. Herons are known for their patience, often standing still in the water to wait for prey, then striking quickly.
Breeding habits: Herons typically nest in wetlands or trees, and some species form large colonies during breeding seasons.
3. Mandarin Duck Family (Anatidae)
Representative species: Mandarin duck, white-breasted mandarin duck, etc.
Habitat: Lakes, rivers, wetlands.
Characteristics: Mandarin ducks are colorful and of medium size, commonly found in lakes and still water environments. They are highly selective about their habitats, often preferring areas with aquatic plants. Their diet mainly consists of aquatic plants, insects, mollusks, and more.
Breeding habits: Mandarin ducks generally breed in quiet and secluded areas, with females responsible for incubation.
4. Seabird Family (Laridae)
Representative species: Seagull, pelican, albatross, storm petrel, etc.
Habitat: Coastlines, islands, coastal lakes.
Characteristics: Seabirds are adapted to life in marine environments, with strong wings for long-distance flight. They often forage on the ocean's surface for fish and other marine life. Seagulls eat fish, mollusks, while pelicans are known for their fishing skills, and albatrosses glide across the oceans.
Breeding habits: Most seabirds nest on coastal cliffs or islands, and some migrate to tropical areas during breeding seasons.
Woodland Bird Detailed Introduction
Woodland birds primarily inhabit forests, trees, and shrublands. Their behavior and adaptability are closely tied to forest ecosystems.
1. Passerine Order (Passeriformes
Representative species: Sparrow, thrush, yellow oriole, titmouse, etc.
Habitat: Forests, urban green spaces, shrublands, farmland, etc.
Characteristics: Passerines are the largest order of birds, typically small, with excellent flight abilities and broad adaptability. Their bills are usually short and pointed, suited for eating seeds, insects, and other small food items. Passerines spend a lot of time hopping on branches and foraging.
Breeding habits: Most passerines nest in trees or shrubs, with the female incubating the eggs and both parents taking care of the chicks.
2. Woodpecker Family (Picidae)
Representative species: Great spotted woodpecker, lesser spotted woodpecker, etc.
Habitat: Forests, wood edges, orchards, etc.
Characteristics: Woodpeckers are known for their strong bills and head structure adapted to tapping on tree trunks. They forage for insects and larvae hidden under bark by drilling into trees. Woodpeckers often use trees as both nesting and foraging sites.
Breeding habits: Woodpeckers create cavities in tree trunks for nesting. They use tapping to communicate during the breeding season.
3. Crow Family (Corvidae)
Representative species: Raven, magpie, jay, jackdaw, etc.
Habitat: Forests, farmlands, urban areas, etc.
Characteristics: Corvids are highly intelligent birds, capable of using tools, solving complex tasks, and communicating with each other. They are generally large, with wide wings, and are excellent fliers. Corvids are curious and adapt to various environments, often coming into close contact with humans.
Breeding habits: Corvids often nest in tall trees and are highly protective of their nests. Both parents care for the young.
4. Hawk Family (Accipitridae)
Representative species: Eagle, falcon, kestrel, buzzard, etc.
Habitat: Forests, mountains, grasslands, etc.
Characteristics: Hawks are raptors, characterized by sharp vision and powerful hunting skills. They have curved beaks and strong talons, which are well-suited for catching prey. Hawks usually perch in high places, such as tree tops or cliffs.
Breeding habits: Hawks typically build their nests on tall trees or cliffs, with the female incubating the eggs. Both parents hunt and feed the chicks.
Birds of Shenzhen and Hong Kong: A Rich Avian Diversity Where I Live
Shenzhen and Hong Kong, located in southern China, are home to a diverse range of bird species due to their unique geographical setting and varied habitats. Situated along the East Asia-Australasia Flyway, these regions serve as crucial stopover points for migratory birds, which makes them particularly rich in avian biodiversity.
Shenzhen, a rapidly developing metropolis, is often associated with urban landscapes and industrial growth. However, it also boasts several green spaces such as the Shenzhen Bay Park and the Wutong Mountain, which offer essential habitats for birds. Shenzhen is home to both migratory and resident bird species, including the endangered black-faced spoonbill (Platalea minor), a regular visitor to the coastal wetlands. The city also hosts a variety of waterfowl such as the northern pintail (Anas acuta) and the Eurasian wigeon (Mareca penelope), particularly in its marshy areas.
Hong Kong, with its combination of urban development and natural landscapes, provides an even broader spectrum of birdlife. The city is a renowned destination for birdwatching, particularly during the migratory seasons. Wetlands like the Mai Po Nature Reserve in the New Territories are internationally recognized for their role in supporting migratory waterbirds. The reserve hosts species such as the pied avocet (Recurvirostra avosetta) and the lesser white-fronted goose (Anser erythropus). Furthermore, Hong Kong’s coastal areas attract a range of shorebirds, including the common sandpiper (Actitis hypoleucos) and the whimbrel (Numenius phaeopus), which can be spotted during migration periods.
In addition to waterfowl, both Shenzhen and Hong Kong feature an abundance of forest-dwelling species. The vibrant, colorful plumage of the Chinese bulbul (Pycnonotus sinensis) and the melodious calls of the eastern great tit (Parus major) can be heard in the wooded areas of these regions. The forests also host a variety of raptors, such as the black kite (Milvus migrans) and the Chinese sparrowhawk (Accipiter soloensis), which are often seen soaring above the hills and valleys.
Being the ecosystem where I am most familiar with, Shenzhen and Hong Kong has a relatively rich number of birds. More importantly, these regions are critical for migratory birds. Thus. there are lots of opportunities for local birdwatchers and environmentalists to observe, study, and protect these avian populations. As urban development continues, the conservation of these green spaces becomes ever more important, which is what I hope I could do in the future.
How to watch woodland birds?
——Your simple birdwatching guide manual.
1Identify sounds
Woodland birds are often more vocal than you might expect, and their songs can be key to locating them. In dense woods, the visual range can be limited, but you can often hear birds long before you see them.
- Listen for calls and songs: Some birds have distinct calls. For example, a chickadee will sing its recognizable “chick-a-dee-dee-dee” call, while the woodpecker will drum on tree trunks.
- Note the pitch and rhythm: The Eastern Bluebird has a cheerful, melodious song, while robins make a series of short whistles. Each bird species has its unique sound pattern, so it helps to learn a few calls before you go.
- Direction of the sound: Focus on where the sound is coming from. Is it high in the trees? Low to the ground? Birds like the warbler tend to stay higher up, while sparrows may be foraging at the forest floor.
2Identify directions
Once you’ve pinpointed a bird's call, your next challenge is figuring out where it is. Unlike waterfowl, woodland birds can be hidden in thick foliage, so locating them visually takes more attention.
- Pay attention to movement: If you hear a bird singing but can’t see it, look for any movement in the trees or underbrush. Leaves or branches might be shaking, or you might spot a brief flash of color.
- Use the sun to your advantage: Birds are often more active in the morning when they are foraging for food. Position yourself with the sun behind you so that you can better see into the shadows and branches.
- Scan systematically: Look through trees from top to bottom, as birds may be perched high or foraging lower in the shrubs. Start with the area where you hear the call, and then widen your scan.
3Look through binoculars
Binoculars are especially useful when it comes to woodland birds because they often hide in thick branches or leaves.
- Use a quality pair: A pair of binoculars with at least 8x magnification will give you a clear view of most woodland birds without being too heavy or cumbersome.
- Spot first with your eyes: It’s easier to locate the bird with your naked eyes first, especially if you’re following a song. Once you spot it, raise your binoculars slowly and focus.
- Stabilize your binoculars: Keep your elbows close to your body to reduce shaking when holding the binoculars. If you're having trouble keeping your binoculars steady, try resting your arms on a tree trunk or other stable surface.
4Wait
Patience is one of the most important qualities for a birdwatcher, especially when in the woods. Birds may not appear immediately, so wait quietly and observe the surrounding area
- Stay still and blend in: Birds are often wary of movement, so try to stand or sit quietly, especially if you're in an area with heavy bird activity. If you blend in, you’re less likely to startle them.
- Look for behavior: Observe the birds’ actions. Are they foraging for food, or are they interacting with other birds? For example, a woodpecker may be hammering away at a tree trunk, while a blue tit might be hopping between branches looking for insects.
- Use patience: Woodland birds tend to be more secretive, so be ready to spend time waiting. Bring a comfortable chair or sit on the ground, and enjoy the natural surroundings while waiting for a bird to appear.
How to watch waterfowl?
——Your simple birdwatching guide manual.
1Recognize the environment
Waterfowl are birds that live near or depend on water, so you’ll need to visit the right kind of habitat.
- Wetlands, mudflats, marshes, coastal shores, or reservoirs
- In Shenzhen and Hong Kong, places like Mai Po Nature Reserve, Shenzhen Bay Park, or Nam Sang Wai are excellent birdwatching spots
- Arrive during early morning or late afternoon, when birds are most active
2Look through binoculars
Binoculars are essential tools for birdwatching. Use a pair with at least 8x magnification for best results.
- Spot the bird with your naked eyes first
- Keep your eyes fixed on the bird while raising your binoculars to your face
- Adjust the focus slowly until the image becomes sharp
- Watch from a distance — approaching too closely can scare the birds away
3Wait
Waterfowl aren’t always active, so patience is key. Once you’ve found a good viewing spot
Stand still or sit quietly, ideally behind some natural cover like tall grass or a bush
Watch how the birds move — are they feeding, resting, or flying?
Take notes or photos to help you identify species later
Look for special markings, beak shape, leg color, and size — these help distinguish between similar species
