Tianmashan Park – located in the Sheshan National Forest Park in East China's Shanghai – has recently been abuzz with excitement, with bird watchers flocking in from all corners to catch sight of two rare avian visitors.
One of the notable sightings is the Ryukyu Minivet, a species of the Minivet family known for its distinctive dark crown, ear coverts and upperparts.
With its narrow white forehead and a striking white eyebrow stripe across the eye, this bird absolutely enchants enthusiasts. [Photo/WeChat account: shwbs2004]
Renowned for its insect-foraging habits in the tree canopy layer, the Ryukyu Minivet holds a prestigious position on China's list of terrestrial wild animals of important ecological, scientific and social value.
Originating from the southern Japanese Ryukyu Islands, this species tends to expand its habitat northward, occasionally straying from its usual nesting grounds due to weather conditions such as strong winds.
While sightings of the Ryukyu Minivet are rare on the Chinese mainland, the first documented record dates back to Feb 11, 2014, in Jiufeng Park – located in Taizhou city in East China's Zhejiang province.
Along with the Ryukyu Minivet is another rare find, the Copper-Blue Flycatcher.
Characterized by its green-blue plumage and distinctive eye coloration, this bird prefers open forests or clearings at forest edges for hunting insects from exposed perches. [Photo/WeChat account: shwbs2004]
Similar to the Ryukyu Minivet, the Copper-Blue Flycatcher is also listed among China's terrestrial wild animals of important ecological, scientific and social value.
With sightings ranging from India to southern China, Southeast Asia, Sumatra and Borneo, its presence in China is noted primarily in the southern part of the Tibet autonomous region, particularly in forests above 3,000 meters.
In light of these great sightings, park authorities have issued reminders to visitors.
Emphasizing compliance with park rules, maintaining silence during birdwatching, respecting nature and adhering to wildlife protection regulations, the authorities are seeking to ensure both the safety of visitors and the preservation of these rare avian species.
