Hello! This is Ootake Camera. Here is the Crested Kingfisher Shooting Base Report for 6/20.
4:10 AM — First arrivals again today
Again today, the Crested Kingfishers began arriving around 4:10 AM. We confirmed 1 male and 1 female. Today, the pair on the left came to hunt frequently and were carrying fish back to the chicks!
We can safely say the peak season has begun! And to top it off, they hunted a nuptial-colored Japanese Rosy Bitterling!
Main perches: #3, #1, and Zero
The branches most used for hunting and post-hunt perching were #3 and Zero, occasionally #1. In the latter half of the session, arrivals from #5 to Zero became more frequent.
The chick-rearing season appears to be in full swing! Arrival frequency is increasing, meaning more opportunities for observation and photography. At the Aizu Secret Base, we share real-time field conditions like these every day.
If you are interested in photographing Crested Kingfishers, please also visit our Yamasemi Guide Page and Availability Calendar.
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■ Today’s Highlights

★★★ We were featured in the opening gravure of BIRDER Magazine May 2026 issue ★★★
On sale April 14, 2026! Available at bookstores and online.
BIRDER Magazine May 2026 Issue
Amazon Rakuten Books FUJISAN (Subscription)
★★★ Our photo was selected for the cover of BIRDER Magazine December 2025 issue ★★★
On sale Friday, November 14, 2025!
Available at bookstores or via the links below!
| ◆ Current Guide Availability | Status | Meeting Time | Departure Time |
| Crested Kingfisher | Accepting Reservations |
2:45–3:00 |
3:00 |
| Mountain Hawk-Eagle | Accepting Reservations | 6:15–6:25 | 6:30 |
| Ruddy Kingfisher | Closed |
※Sessions are held rain or shine. A tent-style hide is planned for Crested Kingfisher and Ruddy Kingfisher tours.

