27 April 2024 Leaders: Hazel and Alan Veevers Species count: 51 for the day Photographs by Steve Hoptroff
A bright sunny morning greeted 40 members who gathered in the car park at Lilydale Lake. We were informed that staff from the Fisheries Department had released a quantity of young fish into the main lake and this probably accounted for the large numbers of Australasian Darters and Cormorants which were seen feeding there!
Australasian Darter with Little Pied CormorantAustralasian Darter showing large feet
Walking alongside the lake a huge raft of up to 40 Little Black Cormorants were busy feeding while the Darters were mainly perched drying their wings.
Little Pied Cormorant high in the treeRaft of Little Black Cormorants fishing
Also present were lots of Eurasian Coots, many on the grassy shore, and flocks of Welcome Swallows flying low overhead. Australian White Ibis, Australasian Grebes, Dusky Moorhens and Purple Swamphens. On the first pond on the left, feeding into the lake, there were a few ducks, including Grey and Chestnut Teal and Pacific Blacks.
Welcome SwallowAustralian White Ibis
Beside the path a Little Wattlebird was feeding in some mistletoe. Walking uphill away from the lake small bushbirds were hard to find, but eventually a mixed flock of Brown Thornbills, Grey Fantails and a female Golden Whistler was seen. Just before turning left to cross the bridge opposite the houses, a Wedge-tailed Eagle was sighted way up high. A little used track beside Olinda Creek was taken and here Australian King-Parrots and Eastern Rosellas were found feeding in the trees. Heading back towards the carpark a small group of Australian Wood Ducks were beside a small pond and Superb Fairy-Wrens were feeding by the path. A short detour onto the wetland boardwalk did not produce any new bird species, though a young Rakali (Water Rat) swimming nearby caused some interest.
After lunch most of the group drove the short distance to the Lilydale Wastewater Treatment Plant on Nelson Road, where lots of parking spaces were available.
Black-shouldered KiteAustralasian Grebe
A Black-shouldered Kite perched high on a lighting pole gave excellent views to all. Members then walked along the Yarra Glen Rail Trail to the settlement ponds where a large number of ducks were seen. These included Australasian Shovellers and Pink-eared Ducks, as well as Australian and Hoary-headed Grebes.
Australasian Shoveler behind Eurasian CootPink-eared Duck in flightWhite-faced HeronMasked Lapwing
A White-faced Heron was hunting in the long grass beside the track and in the end pond some Masked Lapwings and two Black Swans were seen. A lone Cattle Egret was seen on the far bank alongside Straw-necked and White Ibis. Walking back towards the cars a Long-billed Corella and more Eastern Rosellas were spotted.
A total of 51 species was recorded on another most enjoyable excursion.
Special thanks to Steve Hoptroff who provided all 12 photographs in this Report.
23 March 2024 Leaders: Hazel and Alan Veevers Species count: 70
A large group of 43 Beginners assembled at the Southern Carpark in fine but cool weather conditions. After two months with little rain, the bush was very dry and only Crested Pigeons, Eastern Rosellas and Noisy Miners were seen in this area. As the group set off towards the wetlands, a pair of Tawny Frogmouths were located in a tall Eucalyptus tree which was known to be a favourite day perch for them.
Tawny Frogmouth. Photo by Steve HoptroffFemale Darter. Photo by Eleanor DilleyAustralian Pelican. Photo by Steve HoptroffAustralian Pelican. Photo by Eleanor Dilley
To everyone’s delight, there was sufficient water in the ponds to support a large number of species including both Yellow-billed and Royal Spoonbills, Australasian Darters, 3 types of Cormorant, Great Egrets, Australian Pelicans and a variety of duck species.
Royal Spoonbill and Black-winged Stilt. Photo by Eleanor DilleyYellow-billed Spoonbill. Photo by Eleanor DilleyBlue-billed Duck (male). Photo by Eleanor DilleyBlue-billed Duck (female) with ducklings. Photo by Steve Hoptroff
Highlights were a female Blue-billed Duck with 3 small ducklings, her more colourful mate, and a pair of Freckled Ducks that caused a lot of interest. Also, a pair of Pink-eared Ducks, alongside a White-faced Heron, munched their way through a shallow water-weed bed.
Freckled Duck. Photo by Eleanor DilleyFreckled Duck. Photo by Steve HoptroffPink-eared Ducks. Photo by Steve HoptroffWhite-faced Heron. Photo by Eleanor Dilley
Several Black-shouldered Kites were seen at various times hovering, fighting and perched eating their catches. Wedge-tailed Eagles, a Nankeen Kestrel and a Swamp harrier were also seen. From the large bird hide Little Black Cormorants were spotted feeding young in a nest and an immature Nankeen Night-Heron was well camouflaged by the surrounding foliage.
Black-shouldered Kite. Photo by Steve HoptroffLittle Black Cormorants feeding. Photo by Steve HoptroffNankeen Night-Heron. Photo by Eleanor DilleyNankeen Night-Heron. Photo by Steve Hoptroff
At the Rookery several more Night-Herons were seen as well as young Darters in a nest and another family of Blue-billed Ducks. A Brown Goshawk put on a flying display, trying, but failing, to catch any of a group of Little Black Cormorants. On the way back to the carpark a second pair of Tawny Frogmouths was found.
Brown Goshawk. Photo by Eleanor DilleyBrown Goshawk. Photo by Steve Hoptroff
Members then drove to the northern end of the park and had lunch in the Telford Picnic Area. Birdcall recorded 68 species for the morning. Afterwards, a short walk was taken along the Heathland Trail where 2 more species were added to the total; Yellow-faced Honeyeater and Common Bronzewing. This concluded a very enjoyable day with some excellent sightings and a magnificent total of 70 species.
Many thanks to Eleanor Dilley and Steve Hoptroff for providing the lovely photos used in the Report.
Wet mornings are always difficult decision times for birders and Wednesday the 13th was just such a morning. The rain, although patchy, was not expected to clear until lunch time. On arriving at the rough layby that serves as a parking area here, only a few cars were lined up. Our leader Robert was here and about 4 others. Gradually the numbers improved and when we set off soon after 10am we had a group of 14 keen birders. Thankfully, the rain was barely enough to colour the surface of the grassland that was showing the cracks that appear in the dry. The wind was very light, so no rain blowing into faces.
The Wetland here is a Melbourne Water Constructed Wetland. The following link provides some general information:
Troups Creek is not a reserve or parkland in the everyday sense and as such it can be confusing to source information. The creek itself is at the Eastern end of the wetland and flows down from another Melbourne Water facility further North known as Troups Creek Retarding Basin. The following is the latest published report I could find that has data on this wetland. But note that it covers many other catchment areas and associated wetlands. Melbourne Birdlife is involved in conducting surveys at several sites in the Eumemmering Sub-catchment, and Troups Creek is one of these.
We began the survey list, as usual, from the car park while waiting for any late arrivals. There was a Little Pied Cormorant sitting quietly on a post in that part of the lake near the layby. However, it was having difficulty keeping the attention of the observers as the presence of a showy white duck, strutting its presence near the reeds, competed for “bird of the day”.
Domestic white duck – ‘bird of the day’Little Pied Cormorant
Meanwhile, Spotted Doves flew between the telegraph wires and the grassy patches, and Common Starlings lined up to be counted, along with a Little Raven. A lone common Myna sat above them on the telegraph pole. A few Australian White Ibis and some Purple Swamphen were foraging on the verge near the Hallam Valley main drain, and a Great Cormorant did a fly past.
Australian White Ibis
The wetland consists of a series of lakes surrounded by grassland that is cut from time to time. The lakes are generally fringed with reeds and sometimes have small islands. Tree cover is sparse with little to no very large old trees, but there are areas of shrubs and medium sized trees. In the distance high voltage power lines cross the Eastern side of the wetland. In essence, it is an open environment that favours waterbirds, but also supports those that forage on grassland.
We began by making our way to the North side of the lakes and traversing the grassland in a path that followed the water’s edge. This allowed us to monitor the wet areas and listen for small birds in the shrubs and trees that occur in places. We soon had Pacific Black Duck and White-faced Heron on the list.
White-faced Heron
Superb Fairy-wrens were often heard, and a few observers managed to see a group of 10 birds foraging in the reeds at water’s edge. A Red-browed Finch was noted but not seen by everyone. A single Eurasian Coot seemed content poking around in the reeds on the first lake, but the most obvious birds were the White Ibis and the Purple Swamphen.
Purple Swamphen
An Australian Magpie and a Little Pied Cormorant made an unlikely pair on the limb of a small tree. White-plumed Honeyeaters were noted working the tops of the young Eucalypts, and a New Holland Honeyeater showed briefly.
Little Pied Cormorant and Magpie buddy
For a relatively open landscape raptors were at a premium and none showed in the early part of the walk. Scanning ahead on the grassland revealed more White-faced Herons, some Masked Lapwings and two Magpie Larks.
Magpie-lark with tasty morsel (left) and after having eaten it (right)
The more Easterly lakes held Black Swan and a Great Egret presented well.
Great Egret
Dusky Moorhen were conspicuously absent and Eurasian Coot few and far between. The first Raptor to be spotted was a Black-shouldered Kite hovering beneath the power lines. Soon after we were able to witness the languid glide of four Australian Pelican as they flew into one of the lakes.
Australian Pelicans
We’d covered quite a lot of ground before being able to add further species to the list. Brown Thornbill and Red-browed Finch were working lakeside vegetation and Welcome Swallows were spotted over more open ground to the North. Scrutiny of these birds revealed the presence of two Fairy Martins. Back at the reeds some keen eyes got onto two Reed Warblers and a Little Grassbird showing well as they worked the edge of the reed bed.
A pair of Australian Reed WarblersLittle Grassbird (photo taken in February at South Morang)
Just behind them a Golden-headed Cisticola perched obligingly on the top of a grass stem. By now some of the lead group had got onto some roosting Nankeen Night Herons which we all eventually got a look at. The lake here also provided our first Teal…some Grey and some Chestnut.
Nankeen Night-Heron
Making our way around the far northeastern corner an Australian Kestrel was spotted perched at the top of a power pylon.
Australian Kestrel
Goldfinch were spotted in the grass below but the hunt for Dusky Moorhen continued without success. Walking along the creek we noted another Great Egret, Little Black Cormorant, and a Black-shouldered Kite perched on a low shrub gave a good photo opportunity.
Little Black Cormorant
Black-shouldered Kite
We made our way back to the layby along the path next to the main Hallam drain noting two Willie Wagtails and Two Common Blackbird.
Willie Wagtail
A female Australian Darter presented drain side and turned out to be the last notable sighting on our return leg.
Australasian Darter
We had a late lunch and did bird count at about 1.30pm. Our bird list for the day totalled 44 species. All in all, a very good outcome for what promised to be a rather drab day … but birding is never predictable and always enjoyable! The sightings have been entered into Bird Dta as a survey which is viewable via the link below:
27 January 2024 Leaders: Hazel and Alan Veevers Species count: 57
In mild, sunny conditions the 32 attendees began by taking a short walk near the Beach road carpark where lots of bushbirds were found. These included Silvereyes, Red-browed Finches, both Yellow and Yellow-rumped Thornbills, Willie Wagtails and numerous Superb Fairy-wrens. A Little Wattlebird made a brief appearance, followed by several Red Wattlebirds. A raptor spotted flying rapidly overhead was, after some discussion and perusal of camera images, identified as a Peregrine Falcon.
Yellow-rumped Thornbill. Photo by Roger NeedhamWillie Wagtail. Photo by Clancy BensonSuperb Fairy-wren. Photo by Roger NeedhamLittle Wattlebird. Photo by Roger Needham
A lone Singing Honeyeater and several European Goldfinch attracted a lot of interest. Especially delighting those who had not seen either species before.
Singing Honeyeater. Photo by Steve HoptroffEuropean Goldfinch. Photo by Roger Needham
Members then drove to the Homestead Carpark and were just leaving their cars when an immature Black-shouldered Kite flew overhead. It obligingly perched on a nearby dead branch, thus enabling everyone to get a really good view. The group then walked down the main drive where a Brown Falcon and a Brown Goshawk were seen.
Juvenile Black-shouldered Kite. Photo by Steve HoptroffPerched Black-shouldered Kite. Photo by Steve HoptroffBrown Goshawk. Photo by Roger NeedhamBrown Falcon. Photo by Steve Hoptroff
Upon reaching the beach, at low tide, there were lots of waterbirds just offshore. These included Black Swans, Pied and Little Pied Cormorants, Pied and Sooty Oystercatchers, Pelicans and Crested Terns. Despite walking all the way along the beach to the actual Point Cook, no small waders could be found.
A few of the shorebirds seen from the beach at the Homestead. Photo by Clancy BensonAustralian Pelican. Photo by Steve HoptroffLittle Eagle. Photo by Clancy Benson
On returning to the carpark a Little Eagle flew overhead whilst several groups of Musk Lorikeets calmly fed in the nearby flowering gums.
After lunch members drove to the small wetlands, just a short distance after leaving the Park, situated between the road and a housing estate. Reeds had grown tall and dense making it hard to see the birds, but through the gaps Hoary-headed Grebes, Chestnut Teal, Pacific Black Ducks and a Coot were spotted. Keen eyes also saw Australian Reed Warblers flying between the clumps of reeds.
Hoary-headed Grebe. Photo by Steve HoptroffAustralian Reed-Warbler. Photo by Clancy Benson
Moving on, the final stop was at the RAAF Lake carpark. A pair of Masked Lapwings stood at the edge of the water and although other birds could be seen at the far side of the lake the heat haze made it impossible to identify them. Members then walked around the small wetland on the opposite side of the road and saw a Hardhead, Hoary-headed Grebes and Dusky Moorhens.
Golden-headed Cisticola. Photo by Clancy BensonCrested Pigeon. Photo by Clancy Benson
Lots of small bushbirds were heard singing lustily in the adjacent trees. These included Red-browed Finches, Golden-headed Cisticola, Superb Fairy-wrens as well as New Holland and White-plumed Honeyeaters. There had been Crested Pigeons around throughout the day, one of which posed on a bench for all to see and photograph if they wished.
This was another successful outing for the Beginners with 57 species recorded, of which six were raptors. The exceptionally mild weather for January also contributed to the enjoyment of the day. Many thanks to Steve Hoptroff, Clancy Benson and Roger Needham for contributing their excellent photographs.
Jawbone Reserve sits neatly between housing and the sea … a beautifully preserved and wild piece of Williamstown. Something natural and protective for the wildlife and birds that frequent our shoreline and salt tolerant flora. The weather wasn’t particularly warm, and the sunshine was a rare visitor, but the rain stayed away and the wind, although present, was little more than a breeze and not too cold. All said, quite tolerable conditions for a morning walk and bird watching for the 14 birders in attendance.
Group photo by Qifan Su
Clancy has made this his local patch and regularly visits. His knowledge of birds and his familiarity with the area made a perfect combination for leading this walk.
For those interested I have included the eBird track of the area we covered (see end of the Blog), and further information relating to Jawbone can be found in the links below…
We met up on Crofton drive and couldn’t help but be impressed by the expanse of the environment laid out before us. A vista filled with masses of promise. Toward the South and West there were many Swans and wildfowl feeding out on the sea, and close by, the lakes and reed beds were alive with ducks, waterhen, and smaller birds. Nearer the houses, Doves, Pigeons, Magpies and Mynas. Overhead, Gulls, and mystery flyovers (in the sense that you never know what might fly past).
Spotted Dove. Photo be Steve Hoptroff
Soon after 10.00am our eager group began by walking roughly eastwards toward the arboretum taking in the abundant birdlife in the reed beds and lakes. Eurasian Coot and Grey Teal were about in quite large numbers.
Grey Teal. Photos by Steve Hoptroff
Purple Swamphen and Dusky Moorhen grazed on the open grass near the reed beds, and a single Black-tailed Native Hen showed briefly on the outward journey but presented much better views later as we retraced our steps.
Black-tailed Native Hen. Photo by Steve HoptroffBlack-tailed Native Hen. Photo by Qifan Su
Pied Cormorants, and Little Pied Cormorants rested on rocky outcrops that dot the islands. Closer inspection of the lakes revealed Hoary-headed Grebes, Hardhead, a few Pacific Black Duck, and a Great Crested Grebe.
Hoary-headed Grebe (above); Great Crested Grebe (below). Photos by Steve Hoptroff
Great Crested Grebe. Photos by Qifan Su
Hardhead. Photo by Steve Hoptroff
An Egret generated some debate as some members were keen to get an Intermediate Egret… however, we all eventually settled for Great Egret.
Great Egret. Photo by Steve HoptroffGreat Egret. Photo by Qifan Su
A Black Swan was attending to some cygnets, one of which was hitching a ride on Mum or Dad’s back, and what one might describe as “the great Crake temptation” began. Just visible, for a fraction of a second, behind the reeds…lakeside…a likely Crake…that disappeared quickly without a sound or any other hints.
Black Swan with passenger. Photo by Clancy Benson
Disappointment soon evaporated as a Black Shouldered Kite drifted overhead and began hovering before moving on again.
Black-shouldered Kite. Photo by Steve Hoptroff
Australian Reed-Warblers and Little Grassbird were calling from the reed beds. Two Pelicans flew past from the East…low, majestic, and eye-catching. Then the flash of a falcon in a rapid low-level flight that later revealed itself to be an Australian Hobby. European Greenfinch, New Holland Honeyeaters, Singing Honeyeater, Superb Fairy-wren, and Red Wattlebird were all spotted in the shrubs that border the reeds in places. Welcome Swallows swooped overhead from time to time…not in large numbers but present.
European Greenfinch (above); New Holland Honeyeater (below). Photos by Steve Hoptroff
Red Wattlebird (left); Red Wattlebird and Crested Pigeon (right). Photos by Steve Hoptroff
In the arboretum a hide overlooks a small pool….and yet another Crake temptation…possibly a Spotless but again not enough visibility or sound evidence to add it to the list. House Sparrows were being obliging enough though and here too were small numbers of Grey Teal and Little Pied Cormorants along with Superb Fairy-wrens.
Grey Teal, White-headed Stilt and Black Swan. Photo by Steve Hoptroff
On the boardwalk…. excitement at the presence of Sharp-tailed Sandpipers, A Pied Stilt on a nest, and an end to the great Crake temptation with two Australian Spotted Crakes showing extremely well.
Sharp-tailed Sandpiper. Photo by Qifan SuSharp-tailed Sandpiper. Photo by Clancy Benson
Sharp-tailed Sandpiper. Photos by Steve Hoptroff
Australian Spotted Crake. Photos by Steve Hoptroff
Australian Spotted Crake. Photo by Qifan Su
Turning our bins to the line of rocks an immature Pacific Gull was noted along with Great Crested Terns, Pied and Little Pied Cormorants, a White-faced Heron and a few resting Whiskered Terns which later showed a little better as they resumed hunting over the saltmarsh and water.
Pied Stilt. Photo by Qifan Su
Pied Stilt (above); White-faced Heron (below). Photos by Steve Hoptroff
As we began our return along the boardwalk a group of 5 Black Swans loomed large in the West and flew over us toward town.
Black Swan. Photo by Steve Hoptroff
Retracing our steps in a Westerly direction we spotted Royal Spoonbill roosting in with the Cormorants and got some nice views of Yellow-rumped Thornbills as they left the cover of the shrubs to forage in the grass. Little Ravens turned up overhead for an interlude of cawing and circling before heading away again.
Yellow-rumped Thornbill. Photo by Steve HoptroffYellow-rumped Thornbill. Photo by Qifan Su
Moving West past our starting point we stopped at the cars and kitted up with some scopes and spent a little time looking in more detail at the lakes and beyond. Two Musk Ducks revealed themselves and a Blue-billed Duck was spotted tucked in behind some reeds.
Musk duck (above); Blue-billed Duck (below). Photos by Steve Hoptroff
Musk Duck (above); Blue-billed Duck (below). Photos by Qifan Su
Further away on the sandy area, a few Pied Oystercatcher and a single Sooty Oystercatcher were noted amongst the Silver Gulls. Chestnut Teal were also noticed in small numbers on the lake.
The lakes at the western end held more Eurasian Coot, Grey Teal, Pacific Black Duck, another Great Egret, Royal Spoonbill, a Great Crested Grebe with a chick on its back, and some Little Black Cormorants. Silvereyes, House Sparrows, Greenfinch, and New Holland Honeyeaters frequented the shrubby cover.
Great Crested Grebe with chick. Photo by Steve Hoptroff
The Paisley Challis wetland was given the once over from the path at its Eastern end and turned up a Black-fronted Dotterel and a Red-kneed Dotterel.
Red-kneed Dotterel. Photos by Steve Hoptroff
Heading back along the landside of the western lakes we at last got a sighting of a Little Grassbird and located an isolated gathering of about 10 Chestnut Teal. White-plumed Honeyeater were noted along with the ubiquitous Common Myna and Common Starlings.
White-plumed Honeyeater. Photo by Steve Hoptroff, taken at Newport Lakes
We headed off to Newport Lakes for a late lunch, and hopefully, a few different species. We weren’t disappointed as the lunchtime entertainment included a female Rufous Whistler, a couple of Willie Wagtails, and a pair of Pied Currawongs that called and flew nearby. After lunch we did a short walk heading across the causeway and traversing just half the lake area.
Superb Fairy-wren (m). Photo by Clancy Benson, taken on 13 November.
New birds included Golden Whistler, Sacred Kingfisher, Australasian Grebe, Spotted Pardalote, Noisy Miner, White-browed Scrubwren, and a Horsfield’s Bronze-Cuckoo.
Sacred Kingfisher. Photo by Qifan SuGolden Whistler (f). Photo by Steve HoptroffAustralasian Grebe. Photo by Steve HoptroffWhite-plumed Honeyeater. Photo by Qifan SuSacred Kingfisher. Photo by Steve Hoptroff
There were many pleasing sightings on the day and the photographs tell most of the story, but it would be remiss of me not to mention the Australian Hobby (good luck getting a photo of that one!) and the Sooty Oystercatcher which was quite distant.
The bird records for the day can be found via the links below. Our total for the Outing … an excellent haul of 65 species. 55 at Jawbone and 32 at Newport Lakes with 10 new species added there.
The midweek outing in October took us on a 2-day adventure into Southwestern Victoria. With an afternoon walk on day 1 there was plenty of time to make the journey down to Colac where we met up at 3pm to explore the area around the lake. Local expert Adam Fry was our guide for the afternoon, and he was just as pleased as we were to welcome the change in the weather. The sunshine reflected off the mostly calm waters of the lake. The gathering group were presented with excellent views of Whiskered Terns swooping and skimming the surface of the water.
Whiskered Tern. Photo by Steve Hoptroff
After introducing Adam and giving a nod to the book on Colac Otway birds he has co-authored (see note at the end of the blog), we began our walk. The route took us over mostly flat and even ground across Barongarook Creek toward the Colac Bird Sanctuary. There was a short diversion to a raised viewing platform. Then a return to the creek, exploring the Eastern bank before recrossing behind the caravan park and heading up into the Botanical Gardens. This provided several different types of environment: Open Water; Lakeside reeds and edges; Path side mixed vegetation; open grassland; The Sanctuary Wetland; Creekside trees and Shrubs; The larger trees and lawns of the gardens.
The experience began with a closer look at the Whiskered Terns perched on the old pier near the boat ramp. Such dainty birds with an expert agility over the water. These views were a harbinger of the remarkably good views we would get of the local birdlife. Adam’s bird knowledge and infectious enthusiasm for his local patch certainly sealed this as a very enjoyable afternoon. For a group of 22 people to somehow blend in and not scare off the birds was a real bonus. Walking between the caravan park and the lake we noticed other birds of the open water that included Eurasian Coot, Great Crested Grebe, Cormorants, Silver Gulls, Black Swan, and on the foreshore, Masked Lapwing. In the caravan park a few Purple Swamphen and some Wood Duck loafed around. Whistling Kite glided overhead in the direction of the gardens where we had previously noticed a large raptor nest.
Whistling Kite (photos left and top right by Steve Hoptroff – left photo showing Whistling Kite with lunch; bottom right by Katmun Loh
Reaching the bridge over the creek we were treated to good views of roosting Little Pied and Little Black Cormorants, and a few Hoary-headed Grebes. About a dozen Freckled Duck with their lightly speckled feathers and peculiar peaked heads were quietly resting under the trees.
Freckled Duck (photos left top and middle by Clancy Benson; left bottom by Steve Hoptroff and top right and bottom by Katmun Loh)
This relatively rare duck has been at the lake since the middle of winter in varying numbers. White-plumed Honeyeaters could be heard and observed moving about in the larger trees. From here the path snaked away from the creek and alongside a largish ditch separating the path from a small island. This area was busy with Superb Fairy-wrens, Red-browed Finches, Australian Reed Warblers and Little Grassbirds. All except the latter were at times very obliging in perching and foraging at the base of the reeds or near the path.
Australian Reed Warbler. Photo by Katmun Loh
Australian Reed Warbler. Photo by Steve Hoptroff
Superb Fairy-wren. Photo by Steve Hoptroff
Dusky Moorhen pushed their way through the wet grass. The open grassland on the other side of the path held upwards of 80 Purple Swamphen, interspersed with small numbers of Wood Duck, Black Duck and Moorhen. We crossed a muddy causeway (Beware!) and made for a raised platform on the island. This position gave excellent views of Great Crested Grebes in courtship behaviour and reminded us just how handsome these birds are. Their numbers were now up to 30…perhaps the high water levels in the lake were a plus for this species.
Great Crested Grebe (photo at left by Clancy Benson; photo at right by Katmun Loh)
Great Crested Grebe. Photos by Steve Hoptroff
We were also able to observe the presence of White-faced Heron, Great Egret, Grey Teal, Pacific Black Duck, and Black Swan near the edges of the lake.
White-faced Heron. Photo by Steve HoptroffGreat Egret. Photo by Steve Hoptroff
Heading back across the muddy causeway (Beware again!) we became aware of lots more Freckled Duck in the shallows near the edge of the lake and a small Crake that was skulking along a sparsely vegetated bank. This bird, a Spotted Crake, eventually came out into the open just long enough for most of us to get great views.
Spotted Crake. Photos by Katmun Loh
Spotted Crake. Photo by Steve Hoptroff
Heading on toward the sanctuary the path side vegetation yielded Grey Fantail, Grey Shrike-thrush, European Greenfinch and New Holland Honeyeater.
European Goldfinch (Photos by Katmun Loh (left) and Steve Hoptroff (right))
The wetland itself was not particularly busy but we added a Pelican, some Australian White Ibis, Welcome Swallows, and some lovely sunlit views of Greenfinch.
European Greenfinch. Photo by Clancy Benson
The Eastern side of the creek was another surprisingly productive spot. We got some clean vision of a Sacred Kingfisher perched quite high but out in the open.
Sacred Kingfisher (photos top left and right by Clancy Benson; photo bottom right by Katmun Loh and photo bottom left by Steve Hoptroff)
A Little Corella was using a feeder on a nearby dead stump. The lower branches of some trees that serve to blunt the intrusion of the local housing into the Creekside landscape became quite busy with Spotted Pardalote, Grey Fantail, Golden Whistler, and White-winged Triller.
Spotted Pardalote, female (left) and male (right). Photos by Clancy Benson
Spotted Pardalote. Photo by Steve Hoptroff
This latter bird, an uncommon sighting for the area, gave us nice views with 2 females and 1 male bird being present.
White-winged Triller, female (Photos by Steve Hoptroff – top left; Clancy Benson – top right and bottom left; Katmun Loh – bottom right)
White-winged Triller, male (photos by Clancy Benson at top left, top right and bottom left; Steve Hoptroff at second left and middle right; Katmun Loh at third left and bottom right)
On the creek itself, amongst the waterhen and Wood Duck, we spotted a few Chestnut Teal. Recrossing the creek, a Silvereye showed briefly and a few more Red-browed Finches were seen around two nests built right in the open.
Silvereye. Photo by Steve Hoptroff
Heading up into the Botanic Gardens, two Crimson Rosella did a fly-by and we heard Gang-gang Cockatoos overhead … on their way somewhere else, but notable, nonetheless. Satin Bowerbird females played hide and seek in the lush green foliage before one briefly flew through a splash of sunlight providing a splendidly luminous display of its Green and Brown plumage.
Satin Bowerbird. Photo by Steve Hoptroff
King Parrots were eventually located foraging mid-story, and finally, 23 Rufous Night Herons roosting high in a Monterey Pine proved a challenge to find and count!
Nankeen Night-Heron. Photos by Katmun Loh
Nankeen Night-Heron, juvenile. Photo by Clancy Benson
There will be some species that didn’t get a blog mention (they will, of course, be on the survey list) probably because they are rather commonplace, or their presence was less memorable. I have resisted naming a bird of the afternoon or even doing a special mention list. I confess to overhearing many exclamations of excitement and enchantment at the birds we were seeing, and it was clear that different observers have their own reasons to delight in the experiences these outings bring.
The bird records for the day can be found via the link below. Our total for the afternoon a very pleasing 55 species.
Many thanks go to Adam for a great afternoon of birding. More detail on the Birds of the area can be found in this great little book…
Colac Otway Birds, Ian Davies & Adam Fry, VICMARK Victorian Marketing Solutions Pty Ltd., 2019.
Day 2 saw us make the journey from Colac to Deans Marsh where we gathered at 9am for a morning walk on Private Property in the Otway foothills. Our host for the morning was owner James Maund who gave us a short introduction on his vision for the trees on his property and the importance of the creek rehabilitation work he has undertaken to the success of birdlife in the area. The planned walk took us on a circular route through key sections of the property combining bird observation with some detail on the planning and design philosophy behind James’s project to showcase trees of the world. Leadership today was a combined effort from the owner James, Josh, a keen young local birder, and Phillip. This worked well to serve the combined purpose and allowed us to split the group to avoid a more difficult creek crossing for some members.
The route comprised grass pathways, creek tracks, and fords with some uneven ground and gentle to moderate hills. The environment characteristics can be divided into two main types…Grassland interspersed with groves of trees and manmade structures, and a deep creek with substantial native vegetation along its length.
We had initially gathered on the deck overlooking the Northern aspect of the property. Although there are several dams on the property it was clear that waterbirds were not going to be around in the same numbers as the previous afternoon. Even so, initial observation as people were arriving, revealed a Little Pied Cormorant, Purple Swamphen, Grey Butcherbird, Crimson Rosella, and Welcome Swallows.
We commenced the walk by heading downhill from the deck and were almost immediately alerted by Josh to the presence of a Black-shouldered Kite perched in one of the groves. This bird and a possible mate were observed flying and interacting with each other several times during the morning. A harbinger for some good raptor sightings. We moved on down through an avenue of Olive trees to Cleopatra’s pool where we found ourselves looking back up the hill as the Black-shouldered Kite spent some energy harassing a Nankeen Kestrel.
Black-shouldered Kite – Photos by Clancy Benson
Black-shoulderd Kite. Photos by Steve Hoptroff
We also kept an eye on a large dead Blue Gum that often serves as a perching spot and possible nesting site for hollow seekers. Striated Pardalote, Eastern Rosella and Yellow-faced Honeyeater were noted here.
The next major stop was the Ancestor’s Henge, and the first arrivals unwittingly flushed a Latham’s Snipe which some of us stragglers luckily got “in flight” views of. More Welcome Swallows were using the pool in the Henge and the call of a Shining Bronze Cuckoo was heard from the vicinity of the creek. The adjacent grassland was quite busy with European Goldfinch and a familiar buzzing call that indicated the presence of Golden-headed Cisticola. It took a while, but our keen bunch of observers soon located the bird.
Golden-headed Cisticola. Photo by Steve Hoptroff
Flyovers are regular in this kind of environment, and we noticed Little Corella and Sulphur-crested Cockatoo.
The next port of call was the Oak grove and here there was somewhat less of a variety than normally encountered but Grey Fantails, Silvereyes, European Goldfinch and Yellow-faced Honeyeaters were noted. The path Northward led us up to the creek and more Grey Fantails and Yellow-faced Honeyeaters were in evidence. About 30 Straw-necked Ibis were noted flying overhead.
Grey Fantail. Photo by Steve Hoptroff
Straw-necked Ibis. Photos by Clancy Benson
The creek, having been carved out by erosion in the past, is at the bottom of a deep gully. Here the environment is calmer and a little more humid. New Holland Honeyeaters were active in the trees lining the gully and White-browed Scrubwren were soon spotted in the undergrowth. Grey Fantails love it down here and seem to be around every corner. The sound of Whistlers became more insistent as we crossed the creek and climbed to “the Land of the Giants”. Here there are groves of some of the world’s tallest tree species. The birds were very much still associated with the creek vegetation though, and we were able to note both Rufous and Golden Whistler. Grey Shrike Thrush were being heard regularly too, and eventually sightings were recorded.
Golden Whistler, female. Photo by Clancy BensonGolden Whistler, female. Photo by Steve Hoptroff
There are some large Eucalypts on the Eastern boundary that are often used as resting stops by raptors, Cockatoos, Ravens etc. The plan was to check these out before heading down into the creek again. On the way up we heard the call of a Horsefield’s Bronze Cuckoo, and a scope toting member got this bird centre lens…great views for everyone. Another bonus of being at a raised point in the landscape was the ability to take in the surrounding landscape.
Horsfield’s Bronze-Cuckoo. Photo by Steve Hoptroff
This revealed the presence of a small flock of Straw-necked Ibis, one Australian White Ibis, a White-faced Heron and an Australian Shelduck in a neighbouring paddock. It wasn’t long before a raptor showed distantly and approached close enough to identify as a Swamp Harrier … being harassed by a couple of Galahs. A short time after we had logged this quite large raptor, a somewhat smaller bird of prey turned up circling the nearby hill … a Brown Falcon which we were able to follow to a perching spot on a dead stump. Keen eyes … so important … and this is how we picked up Tree Martins hawking the hillside paddock … another good sighting.
Back down to the creek and some more supercharged bird activity from Grey Fantails, Brown Thornbill, Superb Fairy-wren, and White-naped honeyeaters. The latter were very active in chasing and harassing each other and anything else in the vicinity. Here, we split the group with a small group heading back along the top path on the Western edge of the creek and the remainder staying down on the creek path. We did all get the chance, however, to see a Grey Goshawk (White Phase) …a lifer for some members.
Grey Goshawk. Photo by Steve Hoptroff
The top path revealed more Whistlers and a Striated Thornbill, while the creek walkers scored Eastern Yellow Robin, Red-browed Finch, Willie Wagtail, and an Azure Kingfisher…along with some Yellow-rumped Thornbill as they made their way out.
Willie Wagtail. Photo by Steve Hoptroff (taken in Colac)
We all met up again at the Lookout up the top of the South Hill…not much more to report on the walk back to the deck but a few Noisy Miners and a White-necked Heron.
White-necked Heron. Photo by Clancy Benson
I have again resisted picking favourites…I’m sure you each have one. What a fabulous morning walk to conclude our 2 day visit.
The bird records for the day can be found via the link below. Our total for the morning a very pleasing 56 species.
Many thanks again to James for opening his property and sharing his knowledge with us, and to Josh for his local knowledge and enthusiasm.
The joint bird list for the two days yielded 82 different species. Please note that a few sightings, although input, may not be visible to users who don’t own the data, probably due to Birdlife protocols. At this stage 2 birds from the Colac list (Rainbow Lorikeet and White-winged Triller) and 1 from the Deans Marsh list (Common Myna) are not visible or counted in the above links.
Photos kindly provided by Steve Hoptroff, Katmun Loh and Clancy Benson.
What a marvellous day, a massive turnout, and a monumental bird list! Thirty-four members squeezed their cars into the car park outside the Bird Hide and gathered around for a short introduction from the Friends of Edithvale Wetlands who were kindly on hand to open the hide for us: https://www.edithvale-seaford-wetlands.org/ .
The first hour or so was spent rotating observers through the hide and the nearby viewing platform giving everyone reasonable views of the lake and reed beds. Recent rain had put the water level back up to about 400mm. The waterbirds were spread out and somewhat less numerous than hoped for. But there were small numbers of the more common ducks and waterfowl… Chestnut Teal, Grey Teal, Pacific Black Duck, Black Swan, Eurasian Coot, Dusky Moorhen and Purple Swamphen. Scopes proved useful in identifying some Australasian and Hoary-headed Grebes. The larger species – Australian White Ibis, Royal Spoonbill, Australasian Darter, and the noisy species – Masked Lapwing – were easy additions to the list. The first highlight was the appearance of a very acrobatic Swamp Harrier performing twists and turns over the reeds before disappearing into them. The next raptor to turn up – a Black-shouldered Kite – delighted the group on the viewing platform by circling over them. Some keen ears on the viewing platform also heard a single Australian Reed-Warbler. The air above the water and reeds was mostly populated by Welcome Swallows. Other fly overs included Little Raven and Sulphur-crested Cockatoo.
Welcome Swallow. Photo by Graham Gill
The vegetation around the hide was watched carefully for some of the elusive smaller species and yielded views of Brown Thornbill, White-browed Scrubwren, Golden Whistler, Silvereye, Willie Wagtail and White-plumed Honeyeater. A common Blackbird and a Superb Fairy-wren were also heard in the area. The most elusive was a probable female Robin that avoided the scrutiny of 5 or 6 observers.
A pre-lunch walk along the Western side near the golf course yielded Spotted Pardalote, Rufous Whistler, Noisy Miner, Crested Pigeon, and a Spotted Dove.
After lunch at the car park, we set off to explore the wetland on the Northern side of Edithvale Road and were rewarded immediately with some nice views of Red-rumped Parrots feeding in the grassland. Several Australian Magpies were also fossicking there. Eastern Rosellas played hide and seek in the trees along the gravel path. A few Rainbow lorikeets were spotted in a flowering Banksia but the Noisy Miners seemed to be the dominant nectar feeder. The lakes and lagoons in this area yielded some new waterbird species – Hardhead, Buff-banded Rail, Little Pied Cormorant, Australian Pelican and a single female Musk Duck as well as more small numbers of Teal, Coot, Pacific Black Duck, and another Australasian Darter. A Magpie Goose was seen gliding into the top lake behind a pair of Black-shouldered Kites who were proving very photogenic. Some careful observation of the Hirundines that were hawking for insects over the reeds revealed the presence of at least 3 Fairy Martins.
Photos of Black-shouldered Kite above, provided by Clancy Benson
Photos of Black-shouldered Kite above, provided by Graham Gill
The return trip past the golf course turned up a few Australian Wood Duck, Musk Lorikeet, a single Spiny-cheeked Honeyeater and an Australian Kestrel.
There were arguably several candidates for “Bird of the Day” but as no vote was taken and only a few people saw the Buff-banded Rail and the Spiny-cheeked Honeyeater, I think the photogenic presence of the Black-shouldered Kite puts it in top spot.
The complete Bird Data for the day can be found via the link below.
Thirty members assembled at the Southern Carpark in perfect weather conditions: sunny, light winds and not too hot. Soon after commencing the walk towards the wetlands, a very well camouflaged Tawny Frogmouth was spotted in one of the gum trees. It gave everyone a good view and posed for many photographs before we moved on.
Tawny Frogmouth. Photo by Eleanor DilleyPink-eared Ducks with chicks. Photo by Bevan Hood
On the first pond a pair of Pink-eared Ducks was seen carefully shepherding their eight newly-hatched ducklings from one safe place to another. On the shore were a pair of Masked Plovers which dwarfed a nearby Black-fronted Dotterel, as did three Royal Spoonbills which were feeding in the background. The Dotterel was the first of many to be seen during the morning walk.
Black-fronted Dotterels. Photo by Steve HoptroffAustralian White Ibis. Photo by Eleanor Dilley
Continuing clockwise around the ponds some Australian White Ibis and many more waterbirds were seen. These included several more of the common Duck species, Australian Pelicans, Little Pied and Little Black Cormorants and Australasian Darters.
Australian Pelicans. Photo by Bevan HoodPink-eared Duck, Eurasian Coot and Chestnut Teal. Photo by Steve HoptroffLittle Black Cormorant and Australasian Darter. Photo by Eleanor DilleyLittle Pied Cormorant. Photo by Eleanor Dilley
At the far end of the wetlands a Black-shouldered Kite perched on top of a dead tree, leaving it several times for short hunting trips before returning to the roost. On one such occasion it became involved in a fracas with a much larger Brown Goshawk, effectively chasing it away.
Black-shouldered Kite. Photo by Steve HoptroffBlack-shouldered Kite. Photo by Eleanor Dilley
Several bushbirds were also seen in this area, as well as on the return track, including Grey Butcherbird, European Goldfinch, Superb Fairy-wren and Grey Fantail.
Grey Butcherbird. Photo by Bevan HoodCommon Bronzewing. Photo by Eleanor Dilley
After lunch most of the members drove to the northern end of Braeside and parked in the Pelican Carpark. A brief visit to the Visitor Centre was made so that the group could see more of the park’s raptors, albeit stuffed, before setting off on the Heathland Trail. A female Common Bronzewing feeding on the path did not seem threatened by our presence and walked across into the sunshine so that her wonderful feathers shone brightly. On reaching the ponds a few more Ducks were seen, along with Purple Swamphens and Long-necked Turtles. An Echidna was rescued from some children who were poking it with a stick, and then more small bushbirds were spotted. Another new species for the afternoon was a Pied Currawong which was heard calling in the distance.
The beautiful weather and abundant birdlife made this a most enjoyable excursion with 56 species recorded on the day.
Thanks to Eleanor Dilley, Steve Hoptroff and Bevan Hood for providing the photographs.
Thirty-five members assembled at Newport Lakes, delighted to be able to meet again after many months being unable to do so, due to Covid restrictions. The weather conditions were fine but windy which caused some of the birds to seek shelter. The vegetation around the reserve was looking lush with many Eucalypts flowering profusely. Also, there was a lot of water in the lakes following the winter rains.
Sacred Kingfisher by Steve HoptroffAustralasian Grebe by Eleanor Dilley
Two early sightings were of a Sacred Kingfisher and a female Rufous Whistler. Around the lakes dozens of Australian Reed-Warblers were very vocal, but extremely hard to see! There were few ducks or other waterbirds on the lakes and ponds. One Hardhead and a single Little Black Cormorant with a few Grebes, both Australasian and Hoary-headed.
Hoary-headed Grebe by Eleanor DilleyNankeen Night-Heron by Steve Hoptroff
In the sheltered area of the Amphitheatre, birds were easier to find. An immature Golden Whistler and a Willie Wagtail on a nest were of special interest. Then, suddenly, “bird of the morning” was spotted by a new member – a Nankeen Night-Heron perched low under foliage just above the creek.
A bird call at lunchtime recorded 33 species for Newport Lakes.
Members then drove down Maddox Road to the shore where there were fewer birds than expected. A single Pied Oystercatcher was on the breakwater along with a few Cormorants and Silver Gulls. Several Black Swans were on the bay. No small waders could be seen along the shoreline. A highlight was the sighting of an immature Black-shouldered Kite, perched behind a bush, sheltering from the wind. Walking beside the creek a Black-winged Stilt with an injured leg was busy feeding in the shallows.
Black-shouldered Kite by Eleanor DilleyBlack-winged Stilt by Steve HoptroffPied Cormorants by Eleanor DilleyGreat Crested Grebe and chick by Steve Hoptroff
Members followed the track through Jawbones Reserve where there were fewer ducks than on previous visits. However, there were several Great Crested Grebes, some Blue-billed Ducks, and more Little Black, Little Pied and Pied Cormorants. Little Grassbirds were calling from the reeds along with many more Australian Reed Warblers.
Little Black Cormorant by Eleanor DilleyLittle Pied Cormorant by Eleanor DilleyBlue-billed Duck (m) by Steve HoptroffBlue-billed Duck (f) by Eleanor Dilley
Dusky Moorhens and Purple Swamphens with tiny chicks also attracted some interest. On the return walk to the cars an Australian Hobby flew overhead, and a small group of Superb Fairy-wrens foraged beside the track.
Purple Swamphen and chicks by Eleanor DilleySuperb Fairy-wren (m) by Eleanor DilleyCommon Greenfinch by Alan VeeversSinging Honeyeater by Eleanor Dilley
A few Common Greenfinches were seen feeding in their regular place and a Singing Honeyeater seemed to pose for a photo just before we finished. Three Australian Pelicans flying overhead were a fitting finale to a most enjoyable excursion.
42 species were recorded for the Jawbones Reserve, with the total for the day being 56.
The group numbered 16 when we assembled by the information centre on Tuesday at 13.00 in calm sunny weather, perfect for birdwatching.
Group with Phillip Island Bridge in the background. Photo by Katmun Loh
Our leaders were Sally and Derek Whitehead, keen birders who live on the island. They were very familiar with the Cape Barren Goose population but those visiting from the Melbourne branch were very interested to see the recovery of this once-threatened species. Almost to plague proportions according to some disgruntled land owners.
Cape Barren Goose. Photo by Bevan Hood
Cape Barren Goose goslings. Photo by Bevan Hood
The geese were quiet but that cannot be said of the numerous Masked Lapwings. These noisy neighbours appreciate the mowed grasses and clearly you were not an islander if your block didn’t boast a pair, preferably breeding. Meanwhile the sky was filled with skeins and small groups of Ibis, mainly Straw-necked though there were a few Australian White.
Straw-necked Ibis. Photo by Bevan Hood
Our first location was the Newhaven jetty where both Silver Gulls and Pacific Gulls were observed, the latter mostly immatures in their mottled brown plumage and looking somewhat scruffy.
Silver Gull. Photo by Bevan Hood
Pacific Gull, immature. Photo by Bevan Hood
The area also hosted Black Swans and Australian Pelicans while cormorants included Little Pied, Pied and Little Black.
Black Swan, Australian Pelican and Royal Spoonbill. Photo by Bevan Hood
Out to sea an Australian Gannet was briefly viewed and then confirmed as it plunged after fish. Around the houses ringing the jetty area we also noted Welcome Swallows, Galahs, Australian Magpies and Wattlebirds, Red and Little.
Australian Pelican. Photo by Katmun Loh
Australian Pelican. Photo by Bevan Hood
Australian Pelican. Photo by Bevan Hood
Then it was across to Fisher’s Wetlands, Newhaven, where there were ducks, Chestnut Teal, Australian Wood Ducks, Australasian Shovelers and Australian Shelducks.
Australasian Shoveler. Photo by Katmun Loh
Australian Shelduck, male and female. Photo by Katmun Loh
Both Australasian and Hoary-headed Grebes were present while Black-winged Stilts foraged on the far side of the water.
Musk Duck, female. Photo by Katmun Loh
A Royal Spoonbill shared a roosting islet with swans and pelicans and a Whiskered Tern fluttered and dipped near them. From the bush we could hear a Shining Bronze-Cuckoo calling while a Swamp Harrier and then a Brown Falcon started our raptor count for the visit.
Brown Falcon. Photo by Katmun Loh
Black-shouldered Kite. Photo by Bevan Hood
The birding is usually excellent at Fisher’s Wetland and today was no exception. The bush was home to Yellow-rumped and Brown Thornbills plus White-eared Honeyeaters and Grey Fantails.
White-eared Honeyeater. Photo by Katmun Loh
White-eared Honeyeater. Photo by Bevan Hood
On checking Rhyll inlet from the cliff top (scopes are recommended for this location) we were able to include several new species. The sand spit hosted Bar-tailed Godwits and Australian Pied Oystercatchers and a Caspian Tern flew past while the highlight here was Whimbrels on the rocks at the cliff base.
Australian Pied Oystercatcher. Photo by Katmun Loh
We were kept so busy observing and recording that we decided to drive over to the Shearwater estate and complete the day with a bird call there rather than visit the Rhyll yacht club as originally planned.
Galah. Photo by Bevan Hood
The yacht club might have similar results to the Newhaven jetty area while the estate contains central wetlands for water management and is well worth a visit. Yes, there were Little Grassbirds calling and many watchers managed to see an Australian Reed-Warbler as it foraged along the reed base. Highlights here were Fairy Martins collecting mud for nests under a culvert and a pair of Superb Fairy-wrens glowing brilliantly in the late afternoon light as they perched on the reeds.
Superb Fairy-wren, male. Photo by Katmun Loh
We called the list and were gratified to number 68 species for the afternoon. Thanks to Sally and Derek.
Next morning we assembled at 08.30 without two of our number who were only available for the Tuesday. The first stop was the Oswin Roberts Reserve on Harbison Rd, Rhyll, another excellent birding location.
Common Starling. Photo by Bevan Hood
We didn’t need to leave the car park to record Musk and Rainbow Lorikeets, Laughing Kookaburra, Black-faced Cuckoo-shrike, Eastern Rosella and Fairy Martin.
Black-faced Cuckoo-shrike. Photo by Katmun Loh
Black-faced Cuckoo-shrike. Photo by Bevan Hood
Eastern Rosella. Photo by Bevan Hood
Walking around the short circuit by the car park we had the good fortune to locate and then actually see a calling Shining Bronze-Cuckoo, to watch brilliantly coloured Striated Pardalotes and to encounter a couple of feeding Yellow-tailed Black-Cockatoos.
Shining Bronze-Cuckoo. Photo by Katmun Loh
Yellow-tailed Black Cockatoo. Photo by Katmun Loh
Yellow-tailed Black Cockatoo. Photo by Bevan Hood
Fan-tailed Cuckoo proved challenging to locate but most of us were finally able to view the birds. A fortunate group actually observed not one but three Fantail Cuckoos in the same binocular view.
Fan-tailed Cuckoo. Photo by Bevan Hood
Fan-tailed Cuckoo. Photo by Katmun Loh
Fan-tailed Cuckoo. Photo by Katmun Loh
Along the track we encountered a couple of Swamp Wallabies while checking the understorey. Then it was time to drive to the Nobbies for seabirds. Here the raptor count increased as we recorded Peregrine Falcon, Nankeen Kestrel and Whistling Kite.
Peregrine Falcon. Photo by Katmun Loh
Many smiles resulted from the glimpses of Little Penguins in their nesting boxes on the side of the hillside as we traversed the board walk. Crowds of tourists and families were taking advantage of the school holidays and beautiful weather. The calm settled conditions for the previous couple of days were not likely to have driven any albatrosses inshore so we were not surprised when none were seen.
It was not a far drive to Swan Lake from the Nobbies and most of us were soon smiling as pairs of Black Swans led their fluffy grey cygnets and a pair of Chestnut Teal boasted seven ducklings.
Black Swan. Photo by Bevan Hood
Chestnut Teal. Photo by Bevan Hood
There were raptors, Swamp Harriers and Whistling Kites, as we walked the board walk and some of us wondered how many cygnets, ducklings and goslings would make it to adulthood. We decided to have the bird call here and made ourselves comfortable but the usual “bird call calls” rang out with White-browed Scrubwren and Silvereye joining the list at the last minute. The morning’s list totalled 66 species and the cumulative total for the two days was 90 species. It goes almost without saying that we thanked both Sally and Derek whole-heartedly for all their preparation which had gone into such a successful session.
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