John Oates

Harpy Eagles in Brazil. What a bird!

The incredible sound of captive gibbons at the rescue centre at Cat Tien NP, Vietnam

A victory for stealth. This Red-shanked Douc had no idea I was there.

Little Tern at Earlswood - yet another 2026 patch tick @earlswoodbirds

Earlswood's first Spoonbill @earlswoodbirds

Spotted Sand is the first national rarity to have occurred at Earlswood in the 11 years it's been my local patch. It's hard work! @earlswoodbirds

Little Auk trying to find a bit of shelter at Trearddur Bay, Anglesey this afternoon.

Lovely views of the Shore Lark at Mow Cop yesterday. It's in quite a big field, but fortunately it likes to hang around right by the footpath.

Crested Ibis is still very rare & has been close to extinction, but the population is increasing as a result of conservation measures, including some reintroductions. Another top bird from our China trip in Jan 26.

White-eared Heron was a major highlight and one I hadn't expected to see. We had some great views during a night time boat trip. China, Jan 2026

Cabot's Tragopan in China - voted bird of the trip. It's a stunner.

Scaly-sided Mergansers in China. The views were far better than expected!

Great views of White-bellied Seedsnipe at the top of Mount Tarn. A trip highlight & well worth the hike from sea level to a little shy of 800m. @Birdquest

Despite heavy rain and strong wind I managed great views of Seychelles Scops Owl, on my second attempt. A little cracker.

The hotel I’ve been staying at in Mahé has 8 of the 12 Seychelles endemics. The Pizon Olande was my favourite 👍

I’ve finally seen Saunder’s Tern. My previous sightings have all been Little Terns 😁This one was at Curieuse, Seychelles.

Whale Shark off Mahé. We saw about 10!!

Hardknott Pass. Blimey. I’ve driven over some challenging mountain passes in my time, but Hardknott Pass in Cumbria is extreme, due to how tight & steep the hairpins are. At times it is impossible to see what is in front of you. Highly recommended😁

Modern cameras are amazing. This Goliath Heron was taken when it was almost dark, using ISO 25600.

This Wigeon has been more or less resident at Earlswood since arriving as a juvenile in 2021. He's been trying hard with the lady Mallards recently, so maybe we'll get our first Wiglards later this year.... @earlswoodbirds