Hello! This is Ootake Camera. Here is the Crested Kingfisher Shooting Base Report for 6/27.
4:34 AM — First arrival of the day
There had already been pass-through flights before this, but 4:34 was when one finally perched on branch #3.
Then — an immediate dive! It successfully hunted a nuptial-colored Japanese Rosy Bitterling, moved to branch #1 to beat the fish, then headed left to deliver it to the chicks.
After that, the female came, then the male, and they even interacted as a pair — it was a thoroughly enjoyable shoot. ^^
Arrivals increase at this time of year, but please note: the birds go almost completely silent — most likely to protect the chicks. Keep your ears open and stay alert.
The chick-rearing season is now in full swing! Arrival frequency is on the rise — this is the season with the most 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.
🛡 We take safety seriously, including Asian black bear countermeasuresLearn more →
■ 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.