William A note from the Kumamoto International Ornithology Desk (we’re birds of a feather): The only type of bird one needs to be aware of at this season (aside from crows, all of which are actually cats in disguise) is the bulbul (ヒヨドリ, hiyodori). They are not cute. They are not friendly. They screech annoyingly as they eat whatever berries remain on shrubs. Fortunately, being migratory, they will soon be gone.