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| Obi is a remote island in the endemic-rich northern Moluccas region of Wallacea. Despite recent ornithological expeditions in 2010 and 2012,
much remains to be learned about its avifauna in terms of distribution, migration patterns, and breeding phenology. We made a collecting
trip to Obi in November–December 2013, and here describe noteworthy observations made during our visit. Six migratory species not
previously known from Obi were recorded, including the first Middendorff’s Grasshopper Warbler Locustella ochotensis for the Moluccas
and the first Siberian Blue Robin Luscinia cyane for Wallacea. Our observations, in conjunction with those of previous visitors, help elucidate
the seasonal breeding patterns of a number of resident birds, including Moluccan Woodcock Scolopax rochussenii and several rails. We also
include records that expand the known altitudinal ranges of four resident species, as well as notes on species infrequently recorded from
Obi, such as Sulawesi Myzomela Myzomela chloroptera and Metallic Pigeon Columba vitiensis. Although ornithological knowledge of Obi
has increased dramatically in recent years, the very highest reaches of the island, as well as the eastern lowlands, remain mostly unsurveyed
and should be targeted by future visitors. | |
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