Iriomote tit

    Once considered a subspecies of the varied tit commonly found throughout Japan, DNA analysis has now classified it as a distinct species, endemic solely to Ishigaki and Iriomote Islands. This has become one of the reasons European and American birdwatchers visit Ishigaki Island.

    Whereas the varied tit has a pale cream-coloured forehead, cheeks, and crown, the Iriomote tit displays an orange hue. Its wings should be olive-grey, as suggested by its scientific name olivaceus, though this is difficult to discern in the wild.

    The Japanese name “Orii” originates from Mr. Orii Hyōjirō, a collector of bird and animal specimens. Several other subspecies, such as the Orii’s Pygmy Woodpecker and Orii’s Shrike, also bear his name.