brendank

I still don't thinking the timing is right. This bird arrived at PT by 1600hr on the 16th September and it seems the Typhoon didn't get close to southern Japan until 16 September 0000hr. The fastest a ship could get to Hong Kong from somewhere close to Japan is 25 and more likely 30 hours (if maintaining a more realistic speed of 21 knots as opposed to 25 knots). So I don't think it is possible it could have gotten to Po Toi that early.

brendank

With regards, captive birds showing visible evidence of cage damage.  I think birds could be released/escape from captive and survive in the wild for a long time. They would undergo molt after being released and show no feather damage at that point. I imagine a Varied Tit could survive several years if released from captivity.

brendank

No tail so not a good sign.

brendank

Interesting, seems this bird was found in Qigu district which is on the west coast, southern end. Would be close to shipping lanes. So the ship assisted theory seems to be gaining evidence.