4 Days East China Parrotbills Birding Tour (Hangzhou-Tianmu Mountain-Shanghai)

Tianmu Mountain offers a rich and diverse mid-subtropical forest ecosystem, home to a number of key bird species. It is especially famous for the Short-tailed Parrotbill, and today’s itinerary will focus on maximizing sightings of this species while also encountering other interesting bird species such as the Grey-headed Parrotbill, Vinous-throated Parrotbill, and more.

Early Morning (6:00 - 9:30): Longfengjian - Dashuwang Scenic Area (高海拔原始林，明星鸟高频区)

Birding Spot Introduction:
Located towards the main peak of West Tianmu Mountain, the Longfengjian parking lot is the starting point for a birding route leading through a prime area of ancient broadleaf forests and tall evergreen firs. This region, with an altitude range of 1000-1506 meters, is one of the densest bird habitats in Tianmu Mountain and is known for a variety of sought-after species. The morning is particularly busy, with dense bird activity making it ideal for birdwatching. Key species in this area include the Brown-cheeked Bulbul (棕噪鹛), Beautiful Starling (丽星鹩鹛), and other rare birds. There is a dedicated electric shuttle bus available for easy access to the core birding areas (10 RMB per section), saving time on walking.

Birding Path:

• Start at Longfengjian Parking Lot → Wooden boardwalk → Simian Peak → Dashuwang.
• The walking distance is about 2.5 km, with mild slopes and occasional stone steps (recommended to wear slip-resistant shoes).
• Focus on searching the leaf litter, mid-layer of trees, and shrubby areas. Walk quietly and use the "懂鸟" (Birds App) for bird sound recognition to identify species by their calls. Take your time to spot key target species.

Target Birds (High probability of sightings):

• Brown-cheeked Bulbul (棕噪鹛): A forest floor forager with loud calls, most active between May-July.
• Beautiful Starling (丽星鹩鹛): Found in dense high-altitude shrubs, listen for their calls to locate them.
• White-throated Flycatcher (白喉林鹟): High probability of sightings near the parking lot.
• South China Crowned Warbler (华南冠纹柳莺), Chestnut-headed Bulbul (栗颈凤鹛), Black Bulbul (黑鹎), Pine Jay (松鸦), and occasionally Crested Hawk-Eagle (凤头鹰), Common Buzzard (普通鵟) in the high skies.

Mid-Morning (10:00 - 12:30): Mifeng Nongjia - Bamboo Forest Line (短尾鸦雀专属观测点)

Birding Spot Introduction:
Situated near the Mifeng Nongjia farm in the mid-elevation of West Tianmu Mountain, this location is adjacent to bamboo forests and a small reservoir. The altitude is about 600-800 meters, and it is known as the prime spot for the Short-tailed Parrotbill. This species is globally rare and is known for its small, round brown body and short tail, often seen in small groups. This area offers high chances for successful sightings of this unique species.

Birding Path:

• Start at Mifeng Nongjia → Bamboo Forest → Reservoir shore.
• Walking distance is about 1.5 km, on a flat, easy trail.
• Focus on searching the lower bamboo layers and the reservoir edges. Walk slowly to avoid disturbing the birds, and use binoculars to track their movements.

Target Birds (Core target species and other notable species):

• Short-tailed Parrotbill (短尾鸦雀): Key species, active in small groups, easy to spot in this area.
• Purple Thrush (紫啸鸫): Frequently seen along the reservoir edge, their bright blue and purple feathers are easy to spot.
• Red-tailed Blue Flycatcher (红尾水鸲), Brown-headed Thrush (褐河乌), Gray-crowned Tit-Babbler (灰眶雀鹛), and occasionally Black-headed Bulbul (领雀嘴鹎), White-headed Bulbul (白头鹎) in flocks.

Midday (12:30 - 14:00): Rest & Resupply (休整+补给)

Meal:
Return to the hotel or Mifeng Nongjia for a simple lunch, choosing light and easily digestible food. Avoid eating directly in birding zones to minimize disturbance to the wildlife. All waste should be carried out to practice Leave No Trace birdwatching.

Resupply & Gear Check:

• Check binoculars, camera batteries, and ensure you have enough drinking water and snacks (nuts, energy bars).
• Tianmu Mountain has high UV levels, so be sure to apply sunscreen (SPF 50+) and wear a sun hat.
• Mosquito repellent is also essential, as the area can have a high mosquito count, and bring slip-resistant hiking shoes for wet sections of the trail.

Rest & Birding Records:
Review the species observed in the morning, mark any missed target species, and update your birding strategy for the afternoon. Use a birding guidebook or the 懂鸟 (Birds App) to cross-check features of any birds encountered. You may also consult with your guide about the best times to visit afternoon birding spots.

Afternoon (14:00 - 17:30): Zen Source Temple - Creek Valley & Yulong Mountain Villa Ruins (溪鸟+特色燕类)

First Stop (14:00 - 15:30): Zen Source Temple - Creek Valley
Located on the southern foothills of West Tianmu Mountain, this area offers an ideal combination of stream, broadleaf forest, and the edge of ancient temple forests. It’s a perfect place for observing stream birds and woodland species. The trail is easily walkable and takes you through lush vegetation and rocky outcrops.

• Birding Path:
  • Creek near Zen Source Temple → Yili Pavilion trail (about 1.5 km, easy walk).
  • Focus on the rocks along the creek, the shrubby areas, and the water surface. Also, look out for woodland birds flying overhead.
• Target Birds:
  • Red-tailed Blue Flycatcher (红尾水鸲), White-capped Water Redstart (白顶溪鸲), Gray Wagtail (灰鹡鸰), Little Grebe (小䴙䴘).
  • Woodland species: Black-capped Monarch (黑枕王鹟), Red-headed Hill Partridge (赤红山椒鸟).

Second Stop (15:30 - 17:30): Yulong Mountain Villa Ruins
Located at about 700 meters altitude, the ruins of the Yulong Mountain Villa offer an opportunity to observe Swallow-tailed Swifts. These birds nest under eaves and are easy to spot in low-level flight. The best time for viewing them is during their breeding season (April to September).

• Birding Path:
  • Yulong Mountain Villa Ruins → Surrounding Rock Walls (about 1 km).
  • Focus on observing the swifts flying close to the ruins and rock walls.
• Target Birds:
  • Swallow-tailed Swift (烟腹毛脚燕): Core species, often seen flying low near the ruins.
  • Occasionally, you might spot Golden-backed Swallow (金腰燕) or Gray Wagtail (灰鹡鸰).

Evening (17:30 - 19:00): Return to Hotel & Summarize Birding Results (返程酒店+总结观鸟成果)

Return:
Travel back from Yulong Mountain Villa Ruins to the hotel. Unwind and relax after a day full of birding. The temperatures drop in the evening in the mountains, so make sure to wear extra clothing to avoid catching a cold.

Birding Summary:
Review the bird species observed throughout the day, with a focus on key species like Short-tailed Parrotbill, Brown-cheeked Bulbul, and Beautiful Starling. Note any species you missed and make plans for tomorrow's birding targets.

Prepare for Day 3:
Organize your birding gear and personal items. Confirm the morning's birding plans and ensure you have everything ready for an early start. Confirm your lunch arrangements for the next day, and finalize your route and accommodations for Nanhui Dongtan Wetland.

Today, we will focus on completing our birding targets in Tianmu Mountain in the morning before embarking on a 4-hour drive to Nanhui Dongtan Wetland. Nanhui Dongtan is an important bird migration stopover located at the confluence of various wetlands, which makes it a paradise for both resident and migratory bird species.

Early Morning (6:00 - 9:30): Tianmu Mountain -补观+寺坞岭 (补充目标鸟种, 丰富观鸟清单)

Birding Spot Introduction:
Based on the previous day's sightings, today we will focus on revisiting missed target species. Silu Ling (寺坞岭) is the recommended spot for the morning, with an altitude range of 800-1200 meters. The habitat consists of road slopes, shrublands, and ridge forests, making it a hotspot for the Kalij Pheasant (勺鸡) and Beautiful Starling (丽星鹩鹛). The Kalij Pheasant is often seen foraging along the road early in the morning, and its colorful plumage makes it easy to spot, especially after rain. This area is close to the main birding sites, perfect for a short but productive morning session.

Birding Path:

• Start from Silu Ling Ridge Trail → Mountain road slopes
• The walking distance is approximately 2 km, with mild slopes and moderate difficulty. Some parts have stone steps, so wear non-slip hiking shoes.
• Focus on searching the shrub layer, roadside, and ridge forests. Move quietly, remain on the trail, and be cautious of passing vehicles.

Target Birds:

• Kalij Pheasant (勺鸡): A core target bird, often seen in the morning along the road.
• Short-tailed Parrotbill (短尾鸦雀), Brown-cheeked Bulbul (棕噪鹛), Beautiful Starling (丽星鹩鹛), Red-billed Blue Magpie (红嘴蓝鹊), Black-legged Shrike (黑短脚鹎).
• Occasionally, you may spot a White Pheasant (白鹇) in the shrubbery.

Morning (9:30 - 11:30): Gear Check + Return to Hotel

Return Journey:
After finishing birding at Silu Ling, we will return to the hotel. On the way back, stop briefly at the scenic area entrance to check off any common species you may have missed. Allow for a 15-20 minute stop to add a few more species to your list. Be cautious of the winding mountain roads as you drive back.

Gear Check:

• Organize your birding gear (binoculars, camera, birding notes, photos).
• Cross-check your birding checklist, tally the number of species spotted, and update your observations in your journal.
• Pack your personal belongings and ensure there are no forgotten items. Take all trash with you to uphold the Leave No Trace birdwatching principles.

Rest:
Briefly rest at the hotel, wash up, and prepare for lunch. Confirm your check-out time and make sure you have everything ready for the afternoon drive.

Lunch (11:30 - 12:30): Meal + Check-out

Lunch:
Enjoy a simple and nutritious meal at the hotel or a local farmhouse restaurant. Try local specialties, and refuel before the long drive. Summarize the day's birding experience during lunch, and plan for the drive to Nanhui Dongtan.

Check-out:
After lunch, complete your check-out process. Double-check your bill, confirm no personal items are left behind, and say goodbye to the hotel staff. Head to the parking lot to retrieve your car and prepare to drive to Nanhui Dongtan Wetland.

Afternoon (12:30 - 17:30): Drive to Nanhui Dongtan Wetland

Driving Route:

• Tianmu Mountain → Hangzhou-Hui Highway → Hukun Highway → Shanghai Ring Expressway → Nanhui Dongtan Wetland
• The total distance is around 280 km, with an expected drive time of 3.5-4 hours, depending on traffic.
• Be sure to control your speed on the expressway, and avoid peak travel times. You can stop once at a service area to rest, hydrate, and stretch to avoid driving fatigue.
• Watch out for trucks or construction vehicles along some of the routes. Ensure safety when passing or maneuvering around slow-moving vehicles.

Arrival & Check-in:
Upon arrival at Nanhui Dongtan Wetland, use the designated parking area (recommended at the intersection of Diting Road and Donggang Avenue, 400m north). The parking fee is 10 RMB/day. After parking, walk to the entrance of the wetland.

• Check into nearby accommodations in Chenjiatown or a hotel near Dongtan Wetland, ideally located within 15 minutes of the wetland entrance.
• Some homestays offer free parking, bicycle rentals, and great value for a short stay, perfect for an early start tomorrow morning for birding.

Rest and Relax:
After check-in, take some time to rest and relieve any fatigue from the long drive. Prepare your birding gear for the next morning and familiarize yourself with key birding sites in Nanhui Dongtan.

Evening (17:30 - 19:00): Dinner & Evening Preparations

Dinner:
For dinner, enjoy fresh local seafood or other regional dishes at a nearby restaurant. Keep your meal light and healthy to replenish energy for tomorrow’s early start.

Evening Preparations:

• After dinner, check your birding gear again and pack any personal items you need for the next day.
• Double-check the necessary items for the next day, including ID, flight tickets, and phone charger.
• Set up the navigation system for your morning journey to Nanhui Dongtan Wetland to ensure you leave on time and avoid delays.

On the final day of your birding adventure, we will focus on a relaxed but productive morning at Nanhui Dongtan Wetland, before heading to Shanghai Pudong Airport for your departure. This will mark the end of the birding tour, but with plenty of opportunities for one last birdwatching session in the beautiful wetlands.

Early Morning (6:30 - 9:30): Nanhui Dongtan Wetland Birding

Birding Spot Introduction:
Nanhui Dongtan Wetland, located at the mouth of the Yangtze River, is a vital migratory stopover for numerous bird species. With a recorded 222 bird species, it features expansive mudflats, reed beds, and protective forests. This creates an ideal 3D habitat for birds. 7:00 - 9:00 AM is the best time for birding, as bird activity is at its peak, and the lighting is perfect for both observing and photographing birds.

Birding Path:

• Start from Nanhui Dongtan Wetland Entrance (intersection of Diting Road and Donggang Avenue).
• Walk along the wooden boardwalk towards the mudflat and reed edges. The walk is approximately 2 kilometers, with flat and easy terrain.
• Focus on searching the mudflats, reed beds, and water surface for birds. Use your binoculars to scan the waterfowl and be sure to move slowly, maintaining silence to avoid disturbing the birds.
• Stick to the boardwalk and avoid trampling the delicate wetland vegetation, adhering to wetland conservation rules.

Target Birds:

• Common Waterbirds: Great Egret (白鹭), Night Heron (夜鹭), Little Grebe (小䴙䴘), Gray Goose (灰雁), Red-necked Stint (赤颈鸭), Green-winged Teal (绿翅鸭), Black-winged Stilt (黑翅长脚鹬), Ringed Plover (环颈鸻).
• Rare Species: You may be lucky enough to spot the Black-faced Spoonbill (黑脸琵鹭), Blue-headed Teal (青头潜鸭), or other rare waterfowl species.
• Common Wetland Birds: Spotted Duck (斑嘴鸭), Watercock (骨顶鸡), with groups of waterbirds often visible in the wetlands.

Morning (9:30 - 11:30): Gear Check & Rest

Return to Accommodation:
After birding at Nanhui Dongtan Wetland, you can either walk or drive back to your accommodation to complete the morning birding session. Along the way, you can stop briefly to check off any common species that you may have missed.

• Once back at the accommodation, ensure that you organize your birding gear (binoculars, camera, birding notes, photos), and update your birding checklist.
• Reflect on the birding experiences and file your birding photos and notes.

Rest and Prepare:

• Take a moment to refresh and change into comfortable travel clothes.
• Eat a simple breakfast or snacks, ensuring you have enough energy for the drive ahead.
• Pack all personal belongings and gear, ensuring no items are left behind. Double-check important documents such as your ID, flight tickets, phone, and chargers.
• Check the status of your self-drive car to ensure it's ready for the journey to Shanghai Pudong Airport.

Hotel Check-out:
Complete the check-out process at the hotel. Confirm the bill and ensure that there are no forgotten items. Bid farewell to the hotel staff and proceed to the parking lot to retrieve your car. Set the navigation system for the airport.

Afternoon (12:30 onwards): Drive to Shanghai Pudong Airport

Departure Time:
Plan your departure time based on traffic conditions. It is advisable to leave by 12:30 PM to avoid peak traffic and ensure that you reach the airport with sufficient time.

• Nanhui Dongtan Wetland to Shanghai Pudong Airport: The drive takes approximately 40-60 minutes, depending on traffic. If traveling to Hongqiao Airport, the journey will take about 1.5 hours.
• Stick to the highway routes, avoiding congested city areas. Take no unnecessary detours and stay focused on the road.

Navigation and Driving:

• Choose the expressway route for a quicker drive. Stay alert and avoid distractions while driving, especially on the highways.
• If traveling to Pudong and planning on transferring between the Pudong and Hongqiao airports, check the Airport Express Line schedules for smooth transitions. The line operates starting from 5:45 AM, with trains every 15 minutes.

Arrival at Shanghai Airport & Departure

Arrival at Shanghai Airport:

• Upon arrival at the airport, park the vehicle in the designated airport parking area.
• Assist any travel companions with check-in, baggage handling, and other procedures.
• Once check-in is complete, guide them to the security checkpoint and confirm all flight details.

Self-Return Option:

• If you are returning home via self-drive, follow the appropriate exit routes and drive safely back to your destination.
• With the completion of airport drop-off, the birding tour ends officially, and you can begin your safe journey home.