Eremaea Birdlines
Interesting and unusual bird observations
Birdline New South Wales

Archive

June 2015
Wed 10Black Kite (1) Pink Robin (1) female
Wianamatta Nature Reserve
Another attempt for Pink Robin this time turned up a reasonable candidate, a female plumaged robin with two rich tan wing bars in thick paperbark woodland in NE corner of reserve. Silent and shy views were quick and no chance for photo. Could not see if banded. I did find a banded Rose Robin with a pink chest, calling frequently in the same location, where there are quite a few banded birds (Yellow Thornbill, Eastern Yellow Robin, Eastern Spinebill). A single Black Kite flew over the same area with several Aust. Magpies in pursuit giving a very good view. A rare bird in the Sydney county.
Dion Hobcroft 11/6 #223578
Tue 9Spangled Drongo
Pacific Highway, Turramura
2 drongoes seen flying around the Community Gardens opposite Rohini St approx 6:50am. Being harassed by Noisy Miners. [Moderator - Spangled Drongos are regular winter migrants to the Sydney area. Today's reports are the last ones that will be published this season as it is now clear that they have arrived in good numbers - AR]
Tom Wilson 9/6 #223550
Varied Sittella (5) Brush Bronzewing (1 male) Whistling Kite (1)
Wianamatta Nature Reserve, Cranebrook
Wandered around hoping I might jag the Pink Robin, no luck with this. Also White-cheeked, White-eared and Brown-headed Honeyeaters, Brown Gerygone, Striated, Brown and Buff-rumped Thornbills..
Dion Hobcroft 9/6 #223559
Red-necked Avocet
Ettalong Beach NSW
Single bird landed on water then swam into shore and settled amongst the seagulls.
Jill Davis 10/6 #223571
Mon 8Swift Parrot
Dharawal Nature Reserve (restricted access)
Swift Parrots were seen on a number of occasions with a maximum of 12 individuals observed flushed out of a single tree. It is likely more individuals were present. All sightings were in 'atypical' Swift Parrot habitat - widely scattered and stunted Scribbly Gums/Sydney Peppermint above a dense closed shrubland of Dagger Hakea and Banksia ericifolia. They appeared to be feeding in the Scribbly Gums which were not in flower - so unsure what they were targeting. This sighting indicates usage of habitat (like Royal NP sighting last year) likely to have been overlooked in the past (especially as most of such areas have restricted access on the Woronora Plateau) and has important management consequences such as potential impacts of current and proposed longwall mining on the plateau.
Martin Schulz and George Madani 8/6 #223545
Little Eagle, Lewin's Rail
Air services site, Shanes Park
A pair of Little Eagles were showing quite well and also seen was a dark morph Brown Falcon (one took off from the ground in the Melaleuca woodland), lots of Rose Robins (at least 8 in various plumages), 4 Crested Shrike-tits, a single White-throated Tree-creeper (a very rare resident in Shanes Park with probably only one or a pair still around there), lots of Buff-rumped Thornbills but unfortunately no Speckled Warblers (they appeared to be getting harder to find here). There were also quite a number of Spotless Crakes calling in the swamp and we also heard a Lewins Rail call from it usual location.
Edwin Vella and Mark Fuller 8/6 #223548
Spangled Drongo
Irrawong Reserve
2 Spangled Drongos seen extremely well and heard calling. [Moderator - Spangled Drongos are regular winter migrants to the Sydney area. Today's reports are the last ones that will be published this season as it is now clear that they have arrived in good numbers - AR]
Jayden Walsh 9/6 #223552
Sun 7Little Eagle
Bobbin Head Rd, North Turramurra
Single pale phase bird cruised over my house heading west approx 1:50pm. Quite high, stopped and circled a couple of times.
Tom Wilson 7/6 #223531
Eastern Osprey, Double-banded Plover
Long Reef Aquatic Reserve
Single Osprey flew along and then perched on south side of cliff for approx 10 mins at about 11am. 2 plovers seen on the rocks at the far end of the reef. No sign of the Pacific Gull reported recently.
Tom Wilson 7/6 #223532
Pink Robin
Wianamatta Nature Reserve, Cranebrook, Western Sydney
Adult female retrap caught in mist net in banding project. This bird is the same one that was caught and banded at the same location in August 2014. Australian Bird Study Association
Darryl McKay 7/6 #223535
Regent Honeyeater
Lake Cathie
Our male & female pair are still at the same site, but in a wider area.
Ted Giblin & Raul and Sandra Orcajo 7/6 #223536
Fairy Prion, Brown Skua
Soldiers Point (Norah Head)
A 2 hour sea watch produced not a single Albatross probably due to the calmness of the sea but I did see about 10 Fairy Prion, about 25 Fluttering Shearwaters, about 50 Australasian Gannets (several offshore diving for fish) and a Brown Skua chasing the Crested Terns. I saw one Humpback Whale and about 20 Bottlenose Dolphins during the 2 hours I was there.On the rocks were 21 Double-banded Plovers (all but one on the reef at the southern end of Soldiers Beach), 7 Red-necked Stints, 6 Ruddy Turnstones, 2 Grey-tailed Tattler, 3 Sooty Oystercatchers and a single White-fronted Tern.
Edwin Vella 8/6 #223546
Freckled Duck, Southern Emu-wren
McPherson Road Swamp
Saw 9 Freckled and a couple of Pink-eared Ducks, 2 Intermediate Egrets, a couple of Tawny Grassbirds and a White-bellied Sea-eagle flying over. I also came back later in the day to see if any Australasian Bitterns were about as the habitat looked ideal for them. I did not see any bitterns but I did find a pair of Southern Emu-wrens (male and female) in thick vegetation beside the western end of the swamp.
Edwin Vella 8/6 #223547
Pacific Baza
R.A.A.F Memorial Park, Whalan, Mount Druit
A grouped 3 Pacific Bazas in the trees of the Park
Robert Coveny per Alan Morris 10/6 #223564
Sat 6Australian Logrunner
Royal National Park--Lady Carrington Drive
After many attempts over the last few years, today we finally managed to nail a showy pair of Logrunners for our Sydney Basin Lists. A few kms north of the southern gate. Lots of Scarlet Honeyeaters about and many many Superb Lyrebirds too. Several deer seen too.
Josh Bergmark, Max Breckenridge, Ashwin Rudder, Andrew Walker, Julian Teh, Lachlan Hall, Simon Gorta 6/6 #223514
Buller's Albatross, Fairy Prion, Brown Skua
Royal National Park--Wattamolla
Highlights of a sea watch of the royal national park today were 3 Buller's Albatross, 25+ Fairy Prions, 1 Brown Skua. Also about 50 Indian Yellow-nosed Albatross.
michael ronan. 6/6 #223518
Black Bittern
Deepwater Park, Milperra
The Black Bittern was observed again today at noon at the western pond on Maxwell Avenue.
Iain Blake 6/6 #223520
Shining Bronze Cuckoo, Humpback Whale
Royal National Park--Wattamolla
In addition to visits to Lady Carrington Drive and Wattle Flat (see respective reports), we spent an hour and a half at Wattamolla. Standout bird, in addition to the usual Rockwarblers, Heathwrens and Tawny-crowned Honeyeaters, was a Shining Bronze Cuckoo - seemingly bizarre habitat. Some among our group set up a scope for seawatching. Conditions were flat with a very light westerly. In spite of our best and constant efforts, we saw very few seabirds, with only five albatross (all Black-browed) among the more regular handful of Crested Terns, and Silver Gulls. A group of c.50 Gannets was observed feeding some way offshore. No prions or any other winterish species were recorded. The highlight however was two Humpback Whales slowly moving north barely 200m off the cliffline, with some breaching observed.
Josh Bergmark, Max Breckenridge, Ashwin Rudder, Andrew Walker, Julian Teh, Lachlan Hall, Simon Gorta 6/6 #223521
Turquoise Parrot
Kulnura
I was driving slowly along Finns Rd looking for Blackbirds when a pair of Turquoise Parrots flushed from the grass and flew up into a tree. A big surprise. Didn't find any Blackbirds!
Nick Carson 9/6 #223555
Varied Sitella
Leura Cascades
6 Varied Sitellas seen at midday in my garden (Cliff Drive) opposite the national park. Feeding on Robinia trunk, about 2 metres from me. Seen again on following day, 7th, at around 8am amongst maple tree. Fine day , excellent viewing.
Judith Gillespie 12/6 #223590
Fri 5Bush Stone-curlew
Pottsville North Caravan Park
Loose flock of (at least) 7 individuals - northern end of park
Bob Moffatt 5/6 #223505
Southern Giant petrel
The Pass, Byron Bay
Large petrel 100m off the beach drew attention by sitting on the water resting it seemed. Large dark figure was approachable to within 5m (by surfboard) and then attracted to 2m away by finger wiggling like a fish. Juvenile bird with plain tan like bill with green grey tip. Bird gradually floated out to sea.very light winds but cold.
Duncan Fowler 5/6 #223506
Swift Parrot
Phil Adams Park, Corrimal, Illawarra
6+ individuals feeding in flowering Ironbarks in small park with remnant ironbarks, Woolybutts and Forest Red Gums. Left area when a Brown Goshawk appeared and flew to nearby flowering trees in Corrimal High School to the east. Yesterday seen some 750m to north west in flowering planted gum on edge of Corrimal Memorial Park.
Martin Schulz 5/6 #223507
Freckled Duck
Wonga Wetlands
Saw at least 15 Freckled Ducks along with some Shovelers and a couple of Pink-eared. They were mixed in with lots of teals
roslyn king 6/6 #223510
Red-necked Avocet
Kyeemagh Wetlands
14 Red-necked Avocets again today outnumbering the regular stilts in the wetlands behind the Bestic St Stadium.
Oliver Williams 6/6 #223513
Red-necked Avocet, Black-winged Stilt
Tuggerah Bay Saltmarsh, Lake Rd Tuggerah
There was a group of 46 Red-necked Avocets & 30 Black-winged Stilts at the Tuggerah Bay Saltmarsh on Friday. Other species present were Swamp Harrier, Swan, White-faced Herons, Little Egret, and White Ibis. This site is located at the end of Lake Rd Tuggerah, 800 m down the Lake Rd Firetail, that passes through Tuggerah NR and Tuggerah SCA..
Alan Morris 7/6 #223530
Thu 4Bar-tailed Godwit
Botany Bay Boat Ramp
A group of 8 youngsters enjoying the winter sun in Botany.
Richard Murray 4/6 #223489
Pacific Baza
East Ryde
I was alerted to a single baza circling overhead by a group of ravens at home this morning. As I was watching it, another baza joined it and then a third. They circled lazily, occasionally stooping on one another and eventually heading west over the Field of Mars before being lost from sight. A long overdue local tick!
Max Breckenridge 4/6 #223493
Square-tailed Kite
Coutts Crossing, SW of South Grafton
Adult kite soaring low over village at 11:35 hrs.
Greg Clancy & Warren Thompson 4/6 #223495
Freckled Duck, Pacific Baza
Walka Water Works
Counted 57 Freckled Ducks on the water at Walka Water Works. Group was largely resting in sparse, sheltered reed-type plants close to the shoreline; a few (around 10) birds swam on the open water. A single Baza was also seen flying over Scobies Lane. eBird checklist
Shoshana Rapley 5/6 #223500
Swift Parrot
Coates Park Road, Cobbitty
Single Swift Parrot seen on private property within a remnant patch of Cumberland Plain Woodland.
Brendon Levot 9/6 #223557
Wed 3Freckled Duck, Brown Quail, Regent Bowerbird
McPherson Rd Swamp, Tuggerah
During a 40 minute survey 7.30-8.10 am I was able to count 17 Freckled Ducks that had been roosting amongst the reeds but a raptor had flushed them out so an accurate count was possible. This is currently one of the largest concentration of Freckled Ducks in the Hunter/Central Coast/Sydney/Illawarra area at present. Other birds seen included adult male Regent Bowerbird, Brown Quail, Grey Goshawk, Tawny Grassbird & 2 White-necked Herons [Moderator's Note: there are at least 50 Freckled Ducks also present at Walka Waterworks near Maitland, suggesting a coastal movement by this species is currently underway again- AR]
Alan Morris, Carole and John Carpenter 3/6 #223474
Pink-eared Duck, Black-fronted Dotterel
Central Coast Wetlands, Tuggerah
There were 20 Pink-eared Ducks & 2 Shoveler amongst the Grey Teal, Black Ducks & Wood Ducks at the Dairy Swamp this morning. 2 White-necked Herons, 2 Black-fronted Dotterels and an Intermediate Egret the only other birds of interest. After being closed for 42 days due to flooding caused by the gale of 21-24/4, and the loss of power when power poles and wires came down, the CCW is now opened again Saturdays and Sundays 10 am to 4 pm.
Alan Morris 3/6 #223475
Ruddy Turnstone
Soldiers Point (Norah Head)
5 individuals actively feeding on rock shelf.
Carl Clifford 3/6 #223476
Spangled Drongo
Randwick
Spangled Drongo in fruiting fig tree south of Joongah St near Randwick Environment Park, then another sighting ten mins later inside the park.
Hazel Watson 3/6 #223481
Regent Honeyeater
Cathie Village Track , Lake Cathie
The pair of unbanded Regent Honeyeaters still present at the same location as reported over the last few days. Observed from 4pm-5pm, Wednesday 3/6. Feeding on flowering blackbutt, hawking insects and aggressively defending the tree from Red and Little Wattlebirds.
Liam Murphy 3/6 #223482
Sooty Owl
Mount Kembla Fire Trail
One bird observed near creek, Sugar Gliders heard calling nearby. Boobook also seen along fire trail.
Penny Potter, Graham Bardwell, Terrill Nordstrom 3/6 #223485
Black Bittern, Pink-eared Duck
Deepwater Park, Milperra
An adult male Black Bittern at the usual spot on the Maxwell Ave ponds was the first I've seen here since January. 19 Pink-eared Ducks on the Kelso Park pond is a local high count for me. 2 Hoary-headed Grebes at same pond. I could only find 2 Musk Lorikeets, a local low count for more than a year.
David James 4/6 #223486
White-fronted Tern
Sydney Harbour
Single White-fronted Tern in 1st winter plumage near Shark Island about 13:45
David James 4/6 #223487
Spotted Harrier
Four Mile Lane, Swan Creek
Adult Harrier landed in clump of weeds 20 m from road.
Greg & Val Clancy, Casey & Jan Noom 4/6 #223494
Bush Stone-curlew
Salt Beach, Casuarina
3 birds in urban park near major roundabout - one bird carrying engraved leg flag yellow A8
Bob Moffatt 5/6 #223504
Sooty Owl
McKeowns Valley, Jenolan Caves
Single bird seen perched soon after dusk
Mark Hocking 8/6 #223538
Tue 2Grey Goshawk (white morph)
Taronga Western Plains Zoo, Dubbo.
Spotted a white morph Grey Goshawk sitting in creek side vegetation at the back of the zoo (no public access).
Andrew O'Brien 2/6 #223461
Pacific Baza
The Ranch HSD Kennebri
A single Pacific Baza was seen on David Johnston's property "The Ranch" which is located east of the small village of Kennebri and north-east of Baradine. The property is well timbered and is within the Pilliga Scrub landform. Bazas are rare visitors to the Pilliga Scrub.
Bruce Threw and David Johnston per Alan Morris 2/6 #223466
Regent Honeyeater
Cathie Village Track, Lake Cathie
The 2 Regents, male & female, first reported on22nd May, are still at the same site, in the same tree. They are feeding on insects and lerps, despite the occasional attention of a large Red Wattle bird, and numerous Little Wattlebirds. White-cheeked Honeyeaters in same vicinity.(But no Drongos or Lorikeets). Cold 13*C sunny, windy day, at 10.15 a.m.
Ted Giblin & Steve Gallivan 2/6 #223467
Powerful Owl
Avondale College, Cooranbong
The Powerful Owl was sitting in the tree holding a Ring-tail Possum
Maurice Ashton 2/6 #223468
Juvenile Pacific Gull
Little Congwong Beach, La Perouse
Juv. Pacific Gull harassed by Australian Ravens, flew slowly along the beach.
Alex Barley 2/6 #223469
Mon 1Regent Honyeater
Lake Cathie Oval
Feeding on flowering blackbutt, and also eating tiny green fruits on tea-tree leptospermum, hawking for insects. In the same trees as friday.
Darin Rounsevell Silva Vaughan-Jones & Ian 1/6 #223458
Powerful Owl, Pacific Baza
Coffs Harbour Botanical Gardens
Adult Powerful Owl perched high in Turpentine. Adult Baza in Blackbutt near main entrance, being mobbed by Noisy Miners.
Greg Clancy 4/6 #223492
Pacific Baza
Chowder Bay, Mosman
In the trees beside the road leading to Chowder bay. I watched it for several minutes and saw it well.
Guy Troughton 15/6 #223619
May 2015
Sun 31Noisy Pitta (and Black Bittern)
Irrawong Reserve, Warriewood
Same place as always near the little waterfall. [Moderator's Note: Since this now annual bird is probably going to stay in exactly the same place for some months now, we will refrain from publishing updates. Please submit eBird checklists, which will allow any interested parties to check when it was last seen without cluttering up Birdline NSW. A similar case exists for the Black Bittern which is almost always found near the bridge on Jacksons Rd, and has been for the whole year. JB]
Chris Pollard 31/5 #223436
Emerald Dove, Green Catbird
Mt Keira Ring Track, Illawarra Escarpment State Cons. Area
Two Emerald Dove flushed in a clearing among dense forest on the eastern section of Mt Keira Ring Track. Two Green Catbirds also seen well.
Max de Beer, Stacey Sirol 31/5 #223440
Pacific Gull, White-fronted Tern
South Ballina
A juvenile Pacific Gull & 6 species of Tern on the beach at South Ballina today, including my 1st White-fronted Tern for this season, also a White-winged Black Tern, 2 Common Terns, Little Terns, Gull-billed Terns, & Crested Terns. eBird checklist
Steven McBride 31/5 #223444
Swift Parrot, Spangled Drongo, Rose Robin
Nurragingy Reserve
Four Swift Parrots were gleaning for lerp near Bell Miner colony. They were constantly harassed by Bell Miners. Other birds in the reserve: Spangled Drongo (1), Crested Shrike-tit (4), Rose Robin (2 males), Rufous Fantail (1), Blue-faced Honeyeater (3 - 1 adult and 2 juvs), Satin Bowerbird (1 female).
Ted Wnorowski 1/6 #223456
Sat 30Swift Parrot
Acacia Gardens
2 seen and heard flying over in the early morning. Lots of Lorikeets and various honeyeaters about.
Edwin Vella 30/5 #223422
Scarlet Robin & Crested Shrike-tit
Mogo Camp, Yengo NP, Bucketty
Highlights of a visit to the Bucketty area today as a regular outing of the Central Coast Group, Birding NSW, was at Mogo Camp, a pair of Crested Shrike-tits, and 4+ Scarlet Robins, including 2 pairs and possibly some immature birds on the track that connects the camp to the Old Great North Rd. This track passes through a section of a fairly intensive hazard reduction carried out in March 2015. The usual residents, White-eared, White-naped, Yellow-tufted and Yellow-faced Honeyeaters were all present. (First Scarlet Robins for the CC this season!).
Kaye Pointer, Alan Morris & 28 members CCGBNSW 30/5 #223425
Pacific Gull
Long Reef Aquatic Reserve
Immature Pacific Gull observed this morning during the shorebird count. Also 2 White-fronted Terns.
Jenny & Rod Stiles, Jayden Walsh, Robert Griffin and Judy Wolfe 30/5 #223427
Pacific Gull, Kelp Gull, Double-banded Plover
Botany Bay National Park--Cape Banks
Single immature Pacific Gull, adult Kelp Gull and Double-banded Plover on the rock platform at the tip of Cape Banks. A fur seal was also observed fishing only a few metres off-shore.
Iain Blake 30/5 #223428
Rock Warbler
Kangaroo Valley Bush Retreat, Kangaroo Valley
Group of 3 Rock Warblers seen along the cliff edge by 4 observers.
Pat Muller 31/5 #223433
Fri 29Plum-headed Finch
Capertee Valley - Genowlan Bridge Road
6 Plum-headed Finches perched while approximately another 100 circled twice then flew off. At the bridge a single New Holland Honeyeater.
Graham Blackwell, Alec & Catherine Gillespie 29/5 #223417
White-fronted Tern
Soldiers Point Rocks, Norah head
There were three White-fronted Terns, roosting with Crested Terns, on the rocks at Soldiers Point at 1600 hrs yesterday. These are the first birds reported for the Central Coast this season.
Alan Morris 30/5 #223426
Beach Stone Curlew
Wooli Wooli River estuary
A pair about 1km upstream from the Wooli oyster works.
Rob Elvish 31/5 #223429
possible South Island Pied Oystercatcher
Beach between Red Rock and Station Creek
Possible SIPO alone on beach. Not seen well enough to confirm [no bins!] Bird was south of the 4WD access point for Station Creek/Pebbly Beach, mid afternoon on an incoming tide.
Rob Elvish 31/5 #223430
Freckled Duck
Narrabri Lake
Three non-breeding Freckled Ducks amongst Pink-eared Ducks and Grey Teals. Good views us they swam near the drooping Sally Wattle on the island. See list for all species seen. eBird checklist
Kurtis Lindsay and Emily Mowat 1/6 #223449
Thu 28Grey Goshawk (White Morph)
Batemans Bay
Seen between Hanging Rock Place and the beach. Sorry for the bad quality photo. It was through the telescope and phone!
Steve Edwards 28/5 #223391
Pacific Baza
Bents Basin State Conservation Area
5 Pacific Baza in Bents Basin picnic area. Photo with captured insect.
Michael Rutkowski 28/5 #223401
Varied Triller
Harrington rainforest
Male and female Varied Trillers present in the Harrington Rainforest yesterday. Male calling. Posting here as seasonal movements of this species in NSW appear to be poorly understood.
Mick Roderick 29/5 #223406
White-backed Swallow
Capertee Valley--Genowlan Bridge
One White-backed Swallow was the highlight of a quick trip to the Capertee today. Lots of honeyeaters about at Glenowlan Bridge including Black-chinned, White-napped, Fuscous, Yellow-tufted, White-plumed and New-Holland Honeyeaters plus 40 Little Lorrikeets, Hooded Robin and 2 Diamond Firetails.
Robert Hynson 29/5 #223407
Regent Honeyeater
Lake Cathie
The two Regent HE's reported by Duncan Fowler et al were still at the site yesterday afternoon (a male and female). They appear to be 'working' a circuit between a small flowering Blackbutt, a slightly larger flowering Swamp Mahogany and some banksias in the area. As Duncan pointed out, the birds are defending the Blackbutt tree from other HE's. The male was doing mimicry of Figbird calls, interspersed with the single 'chack' note of a Little Wattlebird (see link for some 'bumpy footage'). Further information
Mick Roderick, Ted Giblin and Tim Morris 29/5 #223408
Pacific Gull
Town Beach (Port Macquarie)
Immature Pacific Gull (2nd year?) still present at Town Beach.
Tim Morris 29/5 #223413
Wed 27Scarlet Robin, Musk Duck
Powells Lane Richmond
1 female Scarlet Robin feeding in Casuarina's, and the female Musk Duck present also.
Keith Brandwood 28/5 #223394
Little Eagle
Windsor Town
1 Little Eagle circling over Moses St Windsor was 1 of 9 species of raptor recorded in the Hawkesbury on 27-5-15. [Moderator's Note: There have been a fair few LE reports from Sydney over the past few weeks, including two light and dark morph birds around the turf farms. JB].
Keith Brandwood 28/5 #223395
Noisy Pitta
Irrawong Reserve
Noisy Pitta seen extremely well by Jayden this morning at 7am. Also seen by Colin Bradshaw (attached photo). Bird is residing in the same area as last year, just west of the small raised boardwalk. [Moderator's Note: A young pitta was released at Irrawong last week by a wildlife carer after rehabilitation - it is unclear whether the bird pictured here is this rehabilitated individual, or the site faithful regular. JB].
Jayden Walsh and Colin Bradshaw 28/5 #223396
Scarlet Robin
Mount Annan Botanical Gardens, Mt Annan NSW
Perching in araucarias and feeding on the ground eBird checklist
Adrian o'Hara 28/5 #223404
Tue 26Pacific Gull
Nobbys Beach (and ocean)
Whilst having a quick look to see if any prions were visible from Fort Drive this afternoon (which they were not) I scanned along Nobbys Beach and saw what are presumably the 2 young Pacific Gulls that were seen here last Thursday (but had not been seen since). They were loafing with a group of Silver Gulls and Crested Terns (and as it turned out, an adult White-fronted Tern). I decided to get a closer look by walking out onto the breakwall but by the time I rounded Nobbys Head the birds were gone. They were then seen behind a fishing trawler that had anchored just off Nobbys. The birds were sitting near the boat along with lots of Silver Gulls and about 80 pelicans when I left. The very distant (cropped) image shows one of the birds flying left-to-right under the second right-most window.
Mick Roderick 26/5 #223378
Topknot Pigeon
Coffs Harbour Lawn Cemetery Karangi
60+ Topknot Pigeons flying east above lawn cemetery on the Coramba Rd. 1.30pm.
Warren Thompson 27/5 #223384
Black Bittern
Warriewood Wetlands
150 metres west of weir
colin bradshaw 27/5 #223385
Turquoise Parrot, Black Falcon
Back Yamma State Forest
We encountered a pair of Black Falcons perched on a dead tree beside the Back Yamma road and a small flock of Blue Bonnets before entering the western side of the forest. Within the forest, we also had a number of Red-capped Robins, more Blue Bonnets, Superb Parrots, lots of Speckled Warblers, a dozen or so Turquoise Parrots (including some young birds seen), White-browed Babblers, Brown Tree-creepers, White-bellied Cuckoos-shrike, Black-chinned Honeyeater and some Diamond Firetails beside their nest.
Edwin Vella and Mark Fuller 29/5 #223416
Mon 25Zebra Finch (4) Rose Robin (1)
Sydney Olympic Park
A pair of adult Zebra Finches with two dark-billed juveniles feeding on the first grassy hill overlooking Newington NR suggest recent breeding. A Rose Robin was my fourth record, in a large mixed flock on the edge of the nature reserve containing Golden and a single Rufous Whistler, several Grey Fantails and the usual suspects. No sign of Pink-eared Ducks at Lake Belvedere.
Dion Hobcroft 25/5 #223367
Square-tailed Kite
Narrabri Township
One bird hawking low over buildings in Narrabri Township near the bowling club. Saw a STK in the same location over a year ago. Further information
Kurtis Lindsay and Emily Mowat 25/5 #223371
Ground Cuckoo-shrike (10)
Euabalong
Along the Lake Cargelligo to Lake Cargelligo Rd , Mark and I noticed a number of birds having a go at a Brown Falcon we saw some Black-faced Cuckoo-shrikes amongst those mobbing the falcon and noticed also some longer tailed versions which after pulling over realised the later were 10 Ground Cuckoo-shrikes. The Cuckoo-shrikes flew over to the paddock on the other side of the road which had about 20 Banded Lapwing and some Magpies. There were a few young dark-eyed birds amongst the yellow-eyed adults.
Edwin Vella and Mark Fuller 29/5 #223414
White-backed Swallow, possible Blue-winged Parrot
Lake Cargelligo
At the Sewerage works, only one pond (the one closest to the bird hide) was deep enough to support the ducks with the larger ones almost all dried up despite recent rainfall in the area. We saw here a couple of Black-tailed Native-hen, a couple of Red-necked Avocet, a Spotted Harrier, 3 Major Mitchell Cockatoos, Blue Bonnets, Mallee Ringnecks, a few Cockatiel but best of all at least 6 White-backed Swallows. Also, I am almost certain that I heard a Blue-winged Parrot fly over the town which could be expected feeding on the saltmarsh around the area at this time of year.
Edwin Vella and Mark Fuller 29/5 #223415
Sun 24Brolga
Rushforth Rd. Poley Bridge nr Grafton.
Two birds about 200 north of the Orara River. Flew down creek line towards river. Not previously seen before in this location.
Warren Thompson 24/5 #223331
Rock Warbler
Maianbar
I have a Rock Warbler that has moved into my backyard. Today I saw it dropping its wings and dancing a figure eight. But it was doing it in front of our resident Whipbird. Does anyone know if this dance is supposed to be an intimidating dance or is it trying to attract a partner?
Julie Keating 24/5 #223335
Pacific Gull
Port Macquarie breakwall
1 immature
James Oates 24/5 #223337
Musk Duck, dark morph Little Eagle
Richmond Lowlands
A single female Musk Duck was a surprise to see on the small pond/flood channel beside Powell's Lane, along with 40+ busily feeding Pink-eared Ducks, a Black-winged Stilt and several other waterbirds. No sign of any Plumed Whistling Ducks around though. Other nice birds around the lowlands included a dark morph Little Eagle, a Peregrine Falcon, several Bar-shouldered Doves, and a Golden Whistler that was heard and very unusual at this site.
Ashwin Rudder, Joshua Bergmark and Nathan Ruser 24/5 #223339
Crescent Honeyeater
Martin's Lookout, Springwood
Three Crescent Honeyeaters actively calling and chasing each other in vegetation along Glenbrook Creek below Martin's Lookout. Rockwarbler and Peregrine Falcon also seen on the walk up to Lost World.
Max Breckenridge 24/5 #223343
Swift Parrots
Chiltern Trail, Ingleside
[Moderator Note: these two reports have been combined. It would be excellent if someone was able to verify if the parrots are staying in the area, and to observe what they are foraging on - AR] J. Walsh: 3 or 4 Swift Parrot seen flying (and head calling ) over the trail this morning, unfortunately they didn't stop. T. Hickman: Swift Parrots were heard at approximately 4:00pm today 100 or so meters south of where the Regent Honeyeaters were located last year. I only heard two very brief calls, which meant that I was not 100% certain on the ID, until I returned home and saw Jayden's post from earlier this morning. It sounded like the birds had settled down for the night. This sighting seems unusual, as there is not much in flower, with exception for Banksia ericifolia.
Jayden Walsh and Thomas Hickman 24/5 #223344
Plumed Whistling-ducks
Ulmarra-Tucabia Rd, 1km from Ulmarra
4000+ PWDs on small dam.
Michael Cheers 24/5 #223350
Fairy Prion
Terrigal
Four Fairy Prions feeding about 100 metres off The Skillion at 1615. Also present were 3 Australasian Gannets and 20+ Silver Gulls.
Nick Carson 25/5 #223358
Pacific Gull
The Entrance Channel, Tuggerah Lake
1 juvenile landed in channel. Stayed for bout half an hour then Silver Gulls chased it off. (Moderator's Note: This is the 4th Central Coast record, the last record was for an immature bird seen at Flat Rock, Munmorah SCA on 1 June 2013. AKM)
Shayne Weston 25/5 #223364
Swift Parrot
Pindar Cave track, Brisbane Waters NP
2 Swift Parrots resting about 3 metres up a stunted eucalypt amongst thick foliage. On higher ground with low eucalypts and angophoras above a mixed understorey dominated by Banksia Ericifolia in blossom. Directly above the walking track and flew off in surprise, without calling, when we were only a few metres away. Brief but clear view. No other parrot or lorikeet seen on this track in the 5 hours we were on it. Masses of honeyeaters on this walk, good numbers of Silvereye and Dusky Woodswallow, and a single Rock Warbler at Pindar Cave, as per e-bird checklist. A long, difficult but rewarding walk on a rough, hard to find track (not signposted) with Pindar Cave and the creek beyond well worth a look at. eBird checklist
Cameron Ward 25/5 #223370
Regent Honeyeater
Capertee Valley--Genowlan Bridge
4+ birds among 100's of smaller honeyeaters. [Moderator's Note: This is probably the largest congregation of wild birds recorded nation-wide since spring last year. Follow up observations noting exact numbers and presence/absence of rings would be excellent. JB].
David Hair 26/5 #223376
Sat 23Regent Honeyeater
Lake Cathie, mid North coast
Second morning observing 2 unbanded birds in a flowering gum and other nearby trees and bushland. Quite a thrilling and convenient sighting 20m from home. Hours of observations unperturbed by dogs, Hawks and other Honeyeaters which were sent on their way when trying to share the tree which is owned by the Regents for now. Even Rainbow Lorikeets weren't allowed in. Photos, video and sound recordings of course.
Duncan Fowler, Carmen Ludcke, Madeline Sanders 23/5 #223321
Square-tailed Kite, Australian Shoveler & Pink-eared Duck
Tuggerah STW, Tuggerah
Good birding at Tuggerah STW in late morning. I stopped along Wyong Rd (adjacent to the STW) to investigate a raptore being mobbed by Masked Lapwings and it turned out to be an immature Square-tailed Kite & a pair of Nankeen Kestrels also mobbed this bird. In at the STW there was a Swamp Harrier and later a Whistling Kite. There were 53 Australian Shovelers, 26 Pink-eared Ducks and about 40 Hoary-headed Grebes amongst the other waterbirds present.
Alan Morris 23/5 #223323
Flame Robin, Little Eagle
Western Sydney Parklands, Glendenning
While we were having lunch at Joe McAleer Park (adjacent to the Western Sydney Parklands) in Glendenning, Mike Rutowksi spotted a brown Robin sitting beside the fence of the oval at and was seen occasionally dropping to the ground. On closer inspection, we found it to be a female Flame Robin (only the second time I have seen one in Sydney and my first for the Blacktown LGA but apparently not the only record for the Blacktown LGA). We also had several and some good sightings throughout the day of at least one pair of Little Eagles (one at Glendenning and an adult, a juvenile and possibly another adult bird at the Quakers Hill section of the Western Sydney Parklands).
CBOC members per Edwin Vella 23/5 #223325
Fairy Prions, Albatross sp
Mistral Point, Maroubra
Sightings during a brief late afternoon seawatch at Maroubra today included a steady stream of Prions heading north (too far out for specific ID) and then 4 Fairy Prions close in to the point; 3 Yellow-nosed Albatross; 12+ Black-browed Albatross; 2 Shy Albatross; a late Arctic Jaeger (heading south!) and a pair of Little Penguins.
Robert Griffin 23/5 #223326
Gang-gang Cockatoo
Cataract Dam, Wilton
Pair of Gang-gang Cockatoo feeding in pine trees at the picnic area above the dam. Flew away before we could photograph them. Difficult to bird in a water supply area because of the need to stay on the road. eBird checklist
Jenny & Rod Stiles 23/5 #223327
White-headed Petrel, Wandering Albatross, Fairy Prions.
north head-sydney harbour national park.
Highlights from a sea watch from north head today was a white-headed petrel also an all dark wandering albatross with a white face and belly my first for the year. And there were hundreds of prions moving north from 2pm onwards.
michael ronan. 24/5 #223330
Pacific Gull
Illuka Bluff, Illuka.
Immature Pacific Gull sheltering on Northern side of bluff out or 30km southerly. Large pinkish bill with black tip. Also present 1 Red-necked Stint, 4 Ruddy Turnstones and 2 Lesser Sand Plovers.
Michael Cheers 24/5 #223349
Fri 22Pacific Gull, Buller's Albatross and Great-winged Petrel
Mistral Point, Maroubra
Two young Pacific Gulls (together), 2 Buller's Albatross, 15 Black-browed Albatross, 2 Indian Yellow-nosed Albatross, 1 Shy Albatross, 1 Brown Skua, 3 Giant Petrel (sp) and 33 Great-winged Petrels all seen today. I would assume the Pacific Gulls were the two at Newcastle yesterday.
David Mitford 22/5 #223314
Great-winged Petrel
Fort Drive (Newcastle Rock Platform)
There were several Great-winged Petrels visible from Fort Drive late this afternoon, maybe 15-20 birds all up? Some were quite close in and were flying well over 100m above the sea surface with the strong southerly wind. Only two other species seen; a lone Black-browed type Albatross and ~200 gannets, interestingly every single bird seen an adult bird. No sign of the Pacific Gulls anywhere.
Mick Roderick 22/5 #223316
Brahminy Kite
Marra Marra National Park at 33 28 21S 151 0 40E
Single adult Brahminy Kite seen flying distantly against cliff line in Marra Marra National Park from Spencer. Rare visitor to Hawkesbury River and rare for the Sydney/Gosford counties. Previously reported on 9 May-thanks Alan! Poor record shot attached.
Dion Hobcroft and David James 22/5 #223317
Pied Butcherbird
Wiseman's Ferry Bowling Club
Two adults and two juvenile Pied Butcherbirds in weedy field behind the bowling club well spotted by DJ. Probably indicates they nested here. A rare bird in the Sydney county-not sure if previously known to have bred here previously.
Dion Hobcroft and David James 22/5 #223318
Glossy Black Cockatoo
Spencer Township
Five Glossy Black Cockatoos 300 metres beyond the "Licensed Tree" towards Brooklyn. Something else to look for if you are hoping to see the Brahminy Kite.
Dion Hobcroft and David James 22/5 #223319
Thu 21Swift Parrot
Quorrobolong (private property)
8 Swift Parrots flushed from a creekline on private property at Quorrobolong this morning. The creekline is dominated by a Bell Miner colony and presumably the birds were lerping. These are the first Hunter Valley Swifties reported for the season. [Moderator's Note: I'm sure Mick would like to remind everyone to please report all Swift Parrot sightings this season to Birdline and include accurate details of date, count and location. This will be forwarded to Mick and BirdLife Australia who maintain the mainland sightings database. JB]
Mick Roderick 21/5 #223305
Grey Goshawk, Painted Button-quail, Rose Robin
Mulgoa Nature Reserve
Two Painted Button-quails came out from the bushes at the entrance to the Dillwynia Trail. We also observed Grey Goshawk (grey morphology) eating young Crimson Rosella (perching on a large Grey Gum tree near ruins). Other birds: Rose Robin (2 males on Jamison Trail), Little Lorikeet (5), Australian Brush-Turkey (1 - Dufa TraIL).
Ted Wnorowski 21/5 #223306
Rockwarbler
Warrah Trig Lookout
Two birds rock-hopping and flying into low hanging branches. Manged to get some photos, unfortunately ipad cannot load them.
Kim Cumes & Cath Cooper 21/5 #223308
White-bellied Sea-Eagle
Nepean Weir, Penrith
Trio of White-bellied Sea-eagles (Adult, Sub adult and juvenile) soaring over the weir around midday. Juvenile and the sub-adult even got into some aerial acrobatics, locking talons with each other. Other species spotted included Yellow Thornbill, Eastern Osprey and Azure Kingfisher.
Johan Olsson 21/5 #223309
Pacific Gull, White-fronted Tern
Nobbys Breakwall / Newcastle Baths
Two young (possibly first immature) Pacific Gulls were seen hawking amongst a few Silver Gulls along the inside of the outer end of Nobbys Breakwall yesterday afternoon by Richard Nicholas. An hour later (presumably) one of the birds was seen roosting at the Newcastle Baths rock platform with a large number of Silver Gulls and Crested Terns (an estimate by a different observer later in the day put the count at 1500 gulls and 500 terns in the area). The birds have not been reported since. For the sake of tracking arrivals, the first White-fronted Tern for the season in the Newcastle area was seen at Newcastle Baths on the 19/05 (also Richard Nicholas).
Richard Nicholas per Mick Roderick 22/5 #223313
Wed 20Pink-eared Duck (2) Caspian Tern (1)
Sydney Olympic Park
Two Pink-eared Ducks at Lake Belvedere, one Caspian Tern at Waterbird Refuge where also 160 Red-necked Avocets and 5 Red-kneed Dotterels. In woodland areas one male Rufous Whistler, at least five Golden Whistlers and five Grey Fantails.
Dion Hobcroft 20/5 #223294
Horsfield's Bronze-Cuckoo
Pinecliffe, 10 kms SW of Molong
An immature, the barring not complete and certainly a record for late May for this site. (Moderator's note. I would suggest that the record is not a "late record" rather it is an "early record" because with the lengthening of the day light period from 20 June onwards, the host species, mainly Fairy-wrens and Thornbills, start their nesting season at that time so that Horsfield's, Shining Bronze and Black-eared Cuckoos have to be ready then to lay their eggs too! AKM).
Bruce Tinsey 20/5 #223298
Glossy Black-Cockatoo
Lake Conjola - Thorne St. 35°16'23.9"S 150°29'21.3"E
Great to see 4 Glossy Black-Cockatoo today and they were not the bit concerned that I was standing right next to them as they continued feeding in the Casuarina trees - a few small birds around as well Brown Thornbill, Striated Thornbill, Brown Gerygone and Silvereye all very busy
Charles Dove 20/5 #223299
Tue 19White-bellied Cuckooshrike
Fire Trail Lake Conjola
A surprise today was the White-bellied Cuckoo Shrike high in the gum trees at lake Conjola not a bird you would expect to come across around this area, lots of honey eaters, White-eared, White-naped, White cheeked, Scarlet and Lewin's also The Red Wattlebird flocking in groups of up 40 at a time and also surprised to so many Rose Robins around 7 in two days.
Charles Dove 19/5 #223284
Pink-eared Duck
Kelso Park North, Milperra
15 Pink-eared Ducks today on the stormwater detention pond is my highest count locally. They've been here since early January and numbers have built up gradually. Also 1 Hoary-headed Grebe and a Grey Goshawk in scapular moult.
David James 19/5 #223285
Square-tailed Kite
Coffs Harbour CBD South
A pair of Square-tailed Kites circling together for about 10 minutes to the south of Coffs Harbour CBD around midday today.
Allan Richardson 19/5 #223290
Southern Emu wren
McPherson Road Swamp, Tuggerah
Seen and photographed several birds flitting around the bushes and grass area. Female and male birds Further information
Kim & Rachel Cumes, Cath Cooper and Robin Walker 20/5 #223300
Mon 18Superb Lyrebird
Crommelin Native Arboretum Pearl Beach
Seen and took recording of vocal display. One bird seen
Kim & Rachel Cumes, Cath Cooper & Robin Walker 20/5 #223301
Sun 17Black Bittern, White-plumed &, Brown Honeyeater, Pheasant Coucal and Misteltoebird
Warriewood Wetlands
A great morning at the wetlands with lots of activity! Highlights were a Black Bittern seen near the weir along with 2 Nankeen Night Herons. White-plumed and Brown Honeyeater seen near the Water Quality Ponds. Pheasant Coucal heard calling near the ponds along with 3 Bell Miners.Finally a male Mistletoebird was seen in the main section of the wetlands, lots of Scarlet Honeyeaters present also.
Jayden Walsh 17/5 #223268
Southern Boobook, Tawny Grassbird and Golden Whistler
Eastlakes golf course
My first record of Southern Boobook at this location, flushed and seen poorly in very dense scrub. Took me a week to get another view to confirm which species. Also a Tawny Grassbird, initially located from its call then subsequently seen and a Golden Whistler (first record this year) A couple of Grey Fantails have taken up winter territories and at least one Australian Reed warbler still lurking around.
David Mitford 25/5 #223359
Sat 16Pacific Gull
Mistral Point Maroubra
Lots of the usual stuff, lots of Black-browed Albatross and Australasian Gannets, no whales observed as yet. This young Pacific Gull was causing havoc amongst the Silvers there, also an adult Kelp too
Chris Pollard 16/5 #223250
Little Eagle, Australian Hobby
Milperra
Alarmed Noisy Miners alerted me to a light morph Little Eagle soaring out from the former Riverlands Golf Course site and over my yard mid morning. It was quickly chased off by a pair of Australian Hobby.
David James 16/5 #223253
Freckled Duck, Pink-eared Duck and Australian Shoveller
McPherson Rd Swamp, Tuggerah
Highlights at McPherson Rd Swamp this morning in the drizzling rain were 7 Freckled Ducks, 2 Pink-ears and 2 Australasian Shovelers and a Sea-Eagle.
Alan Morris, Paul; Johnstone, David Peet & Steve Hey 16/5 #223265
Brown Falcon, Southern Emu-wren, Hobby
Central Coast Wetlands, Tuggerah
Highlights at the Central Coast Wetlands today where it was showery and overcast, was a Brown Falcon (very uncommon at this site), a party of 5 Emu-wrens in the long grass along Tuggerah Creek, a Hobby around the Dairy buildings, Whistling Kite, Intermediate Egret and White-necked Heron, Scarlet Honeyeaters, Mistletoe-birds and a Fan-tailed Cuckoo. Note that this wetland is currently closed due to a number of the power poles coming down in the big storm so that there is no power, water or sewage connected to the site.
Alan Morris, Paul Johnstone, Steve Hey and David Peet 16/5 #223266
Pacific Baza
Keep Reserve, The Rampart, Castlecrag
The Pacific Baza was around on both days on the weekend and may be building a nest. Noisy Miners were doing their best to drive the bird away.
Matthew Keighery 18/5 #223277
Fri 15Swift Parrot
Cataract Dam, Wilton
Viewed 4 Swift Parrots fly into large yellow flowering gum tree at the western end of the top picnic area carpark at 10am. They remained there for about 15 minutes feeding before eventually flying north after being harassed by Red Wattlebirds. Composite photo of 1 of the birds included (not the best photos but good enough for ID purposes) eBird checklist
Paul Lynch 16/5 #223256
Brown Skua, Albatross sp
Mistral Point, Maroubra
Sightings during a 90 minute sea-watch at Maroubra late this morning included 2 Yellow-nosed, 10+ Black-browed, 1 Campbell's and 4 Shy Albatross; a pair of Brown Skuas hunting in amongst a flock of 30+ Australasian Gannets; many pairs and small flocks of Fluttering Shearwaters with at least 2 Huttons Shearwaters; an immature White-fronted Tern and a pair of Kelp Gulls.
Robert Griffin 17/5 #223276
Thu 14Crested Shrike-tit
Overett Park, Kemps Creek
Single male was foraging silently in remnant river flat forest mid afternoon
David James 16/5 #223254
Wed 13Brahminy Kite, Glossy Black Cockatoo
Spencer Wharf and Store, Wisemans Ferry Road.
Warren Brown observed an adult Brahminy Kite at Spencer on 9/5/2015, subsequently today when the CCGBNSW met at Spencer for the start of an outing to Spencer, Gunderman and Dharug NP, presumably the same adult Kite, flew over the meeting point. Other birds at this site included 3 Glossy Black Cockatoos and a Whistling Kite
Alan Morris & 12 others 13/5 #223234
Swift Parrot
Murray St Bateau Bay
The Swift Parrots are still being seen at this location. They are feeding in flowering Blackbutts and have been present the past two mornings between 7.15 to 7.30 am only, max 4 at any one time. Over the past few days I have not been able to locate them anywhere else in Bateau Bay. Mick Roderick advised today that no other Swifties have been reported elsewhere in NSW during the past week.
Alan Morris 13/5 #223235
Tue 12Little Eagle
Fort Street High School, Petersham
One bird circling low over the houses nearby to the school, flying towards Lewisham at about 13:00. Very surprising sight and amazingly the second record of this species at the school for me. Upperwing was clearly seen, the pale coverts showing well in the sun. Short, quite stubby square tail also noted. Sadly without binoculars I wasn't able to make out the shadowed underwing.
Simon Gorta 12/5 #223223
Sun 10Black Falcon, Ground Cuckoo-shrike, White-backed Swallow
Condobolin Sewage Treatment Works
Lots of ducks at the ponds this morning, mostly Pacific Black, Grey Teal and Pink-eared Ducks. There is a small wetland forming on the southern side where I found the Black Falcon and Ground Cuckoo-shrikes (6). There were about 6 White-backed Swallows over the ponds and White-fronted Chats with Zebra Finches in the boxthorns along the bank. The immature Swamp Harrier is still present along with the resident Black Kites.
Warren Chad 10/5 #223198
Yellow-tufted Honeyeater
Mills creek, Wisemans ferry
4 seen on top mountain on the 11km walk that leaves the camp grounds
Shayne Weston 10/5 #223203
Glossy Black Cockatoo
Nth Big Brother Mountain Laurieton NSW
Pair of birds observed flying along the edge of the forest, calling.
Stephen Gallivan 10/5 #223210
Eastern Bristlebird
Governors Head, Booderee National Park, Jervis Bay
2+ Eastern Bristlebirds heard singing in Heath on Governors Head Trail. Also good numbers of honeyeaters in both forest & heath: New Holland, Yellow-faced, White-naped, White-cheeked, Lewin's & Tawny-crowned plus Noisy Friarbird, 1 Varied Sitella, wattlebirds & 2+ WB Sea Eagles on a breezy & rather overcast but nonetheless beautiful day.
Michael Ellison 10/5 #223212
Sat 9Rose Robin male
Kings Point Road Ulladulla
Rose Robin was a surprise whilst in the Bush at Kings Point the first I have seen this year and a male which is great even though it was at a distance
Charles Dove 9/5 #223184
Noisy Pitta
Minnie Waters
Single adult Noisy Pitta observed in thick vegetation on headland.
Darryl and Gary Eggins 10/5 #223196
Freckled Duck
Wetlands 7.5km east of Ulmarra
Single Freckled Duck observed among mixed flock of ducks on pond beside Gillet's Ridge Road.
Darryl and Gary Eggins 10/5 #223197
Ground Parrot
Ground Parrot Site, Hyams Beach Rd, Jervis Bay
2 Ground Parrots heard calling at dusk on the Heath above Hyams Beach, in open Heath west of fire trail that bisects heath. Not seen (alas!) Tawny-crowned Honeyeater & Yellow-tailed Black Cockatoos also present
Michael Ellison 10/5 #223211
Thu 7Southern Boobook
Mulgoa Nature Reserve
At 11am I found a Southern Boobook sleeping on a horizontal branch in the forest understory of black wattle trees.The site was at the back (southern) end of the reserve near the DAFA trail signpost.
Bob Sinclair 7/5 #223169
White-headed Pigeon
Brelogail Road, Northmead
Single bird seen perched on powerlines.
Elisabeth Karplus 8/5 #223181
Wed 6Swift Parrot
Bateau Bay
The numbers of Swift Parrots around Murray St Bateau Bay continues to rise with a maximum of 8 being seen at any one time, small numbers came and went between 7.15 am and 4.30 pm. Max 6 were seen at nearby Sutton Reserve, Bateau Bay, particularly feeding in a flowering Swamp Mahogany that is adjacent to a new toilet block being built by NPWS in Reserve Drive at Bateau Bay. Other birds also seen today at 3 Murray St include a Square-tailed Kite, a Peregrine Falcon and this evening, a Pacific Swift.
Alan Morris 6/5 #223162
Brush Bronzewing
Porters Creek Road - off Princes H'way - Shoalhaven
Brush Bronzewing - not all that common and was great to see on the side of the road in the late morning, very windy conditions and most birds very unsettled mainly Honeyeaters migrating north.
Charles Dove 6/5 #223164
Tue 5Swift Parrot
3 Murray St Bateau Bay
For the 10th year out of the last 13 years, the Swift Parrots have turned up at my home in Bateau Bay. This afternoon there were 5 Swift Parrots, first identified by call at 4.35 pm, feeding in a large flowering Blackbutt in the front yard. If they stay around they can be easily be observed from the street.
Alan Morris 5/5 #223156
Regent Honeyeater
Mount White, Central Coast
Two Regent Honeyeaters have been observed on private property at Mount White from 1-5/5/15. The birds have been seen hawking for insects in Peppermint and Grey Gums and taking nectar from some flowering Banksia ericifolias. The site is not accessible, this report is only given as a record of the presence of this rare bird on the Central Coast.
Alan Morris 5/5 #223157
Australian Ringneck
Taronga Western Plains Zoo, Dubbo
Spotted a trio of "Mallee ringnecks" foraging amongst eucalypt and cypress pines at the back of the zoo (behind the scenes). Very surprised to see them in the zoo
Andrew O'Brien 6/5 #223163
Sun 3Swift Parrot
Livingstone NP via Wagga Wagga
6 Swift Parrots were seen in a eucalypt beside the car park. Also seen on the walk were Buff-rumped Thornbill, Flame Robin, Diamond Firetail and Dusky Woodswallow. The rifle range beside the main entrance to the park was active and noisy but the birds seemed undisturbed. [Moderator's Note: Please report all Swift Parrot sightings this season to Birdline and include accurate details of date, count and location. This will be forwarded to BirdLife Australia who maintain the mainland sightings database. JB]
Nella Smith and Max O'Sullivan 3/5 #223140
Buller's Albatross and Great-winged Petrel
Mistral Point, Maroubra
9 Buller's Albatross, 9 Arctic Jaegers, 50 Black-browed Albatrosses, 1 Yellow-nosed Albotross, 2 Great-winged Petrels, 5 Wedge-tailed Shearwaters, 1 Fluttering Shearwater, 250 Australasian Gannets and a few Short-tailed Sheawaters seen today. No Shy Albatross but the most Buller's I have ever seen from land, possible Fairy Prion as well but very brief view.
David Mitford 3/5 #223142
Red-necked Avocet, Lewin's Rail, Brown Honeyeater & Double-barred Finch
Landing Lights Wetland/Barton Park near Sydney Airport
18 Red-necked Avocets - a new record for this site which has been recently rehabilitated to make more suitable for waders. eBird checklist
Andrew Taylor 5/5 #223154
Sat 2Wilson's Storm Petrel's, Fregetta sp.
Ballina Lighthouse
After strong winds overnight several storm petrels seen feeding just beyond breakers. Mostly Wilson's with one assumed fregetta showing white underparts. Also Crested Terns, Common Terns, Australasian Gannets, All dark shearwater sp., and Pied cormorants.
Gus Daly 2/5 #223128
White-headed Pigeon
Hermitage Rd Kurrajong Hills
28 birds on power lines just before sunset. Likely more in roadside privet heavy with fruit at top of Mill Road. By far largest group I've seen locally.
Eric Finley 3/5 #223132
Common Noddy, Wandering Tattler(4)
Flat Rock, Ballina
The only blow-in found at Flat Rock on Sat morning after the east coast low had passed, was a single Common Noddy. Also of interest was 4 Wandering Tattlers, all with a significant amount of breeding plumage, haven't migrated north yet! eBird checklist
Steven McBride 4/5 #223146
Fri 1Buller's Albatross, Yellow-nosed Albatross, Fairy Prion
Ben Boyd National Park--Green Cape
A single Buller's Albatross sighted far offshore (700+m - hence poor image at such great distance). A few Fairy Prion's observed closer to shore along with Shy Albatross and Gannet's (juv and adults). A single Yellow-nosed Albatross seen resting on the water for around 20 minutes at around 600+m offshore.
Jason Caruso 6/5 #223165
April 2015
Wed 29Black Falcon, Black Kite, Wedge-tailed Eagle
Lismore Waste and Recycle Facility
2 Black Falcons, 8 Black Kites and 2 Wedge-tailed Eagles seen to-day soaring over the tip and Recycle Facility. Also an early Rose Robin in the Botanical Gardens (which is adjacent to the Waste Depot.) plus 4 Koalas were the standout sightings at our local outing to-day.
June Harris 29/4 #223107
Tue 28Plumed Whistling-Duck
Powells Lane Pond
Approx 100 Plumed Whistling-Ducks at the pond on Triangle Lane / Powells Lane Richmond. I lost count at 89. The pond is well and truly flooded.
Carol Abbott 28/4 #223101
Black Kite
Wyong
Gliding low over the trees and houses on Margaret St at 930am, this compliments another seen at Forresters Beach by Rowena Wallace on 6/4/2015 . First Black Kites on the Central Coast for over a year.
Nick Carson 29/4 #223104
Swift Parrot
Martindale Travelling Stock Reserve, 7km north of Corowa
Two Swift Parrots observed trying to utilise Grey Box habitat on this reserve, but were constantly and aggressively being chased by *@#$% Noisy Miners!
Chris Tzaros 5/5 #223155
Sun 26Black Kite
George St, South Windsor
Flew above car at tree top level. Very clear view.
Pat Muller 27/4 #223081
Glossy Ibis, Spotted Harrier, Black Kite
Llewellyns Lane Swamp, 8 km W of Casino
There were 42 Glossy Ibis feeding in this shallow, seasonal fresh wetland, with many Cattle Egrets, Intermediate Egrets, Black Swans and Straw-necked Ibis. An adult Sea-eagle had caught some prey and was feeding on a post in the middle of the wetland harassed by a Whistling Kite. A Spotted Harrier, Swamp Harrier, 5 Black Kite and a Hobby were feeding on and or over this and adjoining wetlands. The number of Spotted Harriers, Black Kites and the Black Falcons seen in and around Casino was most unusual and must reflect the drought in western Qld.
Alan Morris & 20 members CCGBNSW 29/4 #223113
Sat 25Azure Kingfisher and Eastern Spinebill
Eastlakes golf course
Finally some autumn movement, an Eastern Spinebill, Azure Kingfisher and 30 Silvereyes all at the southern end of the site. Also a couple of Lewin's Rails calling in the reedbeds just before the storm hit.
David Mitford 25/4 #223068
Spangled Drongo
Deep Creek Reserve, Narrabeen
Where the water pipe crosses the creek
Gabrielle Rees 26/4 #223075
Great Crested Gebe, Spotted Harrier, Black Kite
Fairy Hill Wetlands, 12 km NNW Casino
This constructed wetland for irrigation purposes, contained about 600 Coots, smaller numbers of Hardheads and Black Ducks, and 2 pairs of Great Crested Grebes. A Spotted Harrier, 8 Black Kites, a Black-shouldered Kite, a Kestrel and a Brown Falcon and many Straw-necked Ibis were seen close by.
Alan Morris & 20 members CCGBNSW 29/4 #223112
Fri 24Powerful Owl
Milner Cres, Wollstonecraft
Heard female calling around 12.35am. She was sitting on stinkpipe in backyard and called only for a few minutes. Then she spent the next half hour preening her feathers and paying close attention to her feet. In that time, she was circled three times by another owl (presumably the male) a couple of metres lower than where she was perched. She would stop preening and on two occasions emitted a low soft cooing sort of noise. The other bird flew back around her at her level and she dropped off the perch and flew down with him out of sight, but I heard the 'coo' once more! Worth getting a crick in the neck and a gap in the night's sleep to see!
Lindy Jones 24/4 #223061
Black Falcon, Black Kite, Magpie-Geese, Black-necked Stork
Jabiru-Geenbingeni Wetland, Casino
Two hours at this Reserve found 57 species, the highlights included a pair of Black Falcons harassing two Black Kites, a Swamp Harrier, Sea-Eagle, 7 Magpie-Geese, 60+ Chestnut-breasted Mannikins, Jacanas, Australian Shovelers, a Black-necked Stork, a party of Red-backed Fairy-wrens and a Hobby
Alan Morris & 20 members of CCGBNSW 29/4 #223110
Plum-headed Finch, Pink-eared Duck, Musk Duck, Restless Flycatcher
Casino STW (access by arrangement)
2 Hours were spent at this wetland, 52 species seen, including 10 Plum-headed Finch including juveniles, 56 Pink-eared Ducks, 4 Red-kneed Dotterel, a Restless Flycatcher, juvenile Brush Cuckoo, Chestnut-breasted Mannikins, an adult male Musk Duck, a Hoary-headed Grebe and the only raptor sighted was a pair of Whistling Kites.
Alan Morris & 20 members CCGBNSW 29/4 #223111
Thu 23Plum-headed Finch
Eulah Creek
Although common out in the plains, it has been a while since I have found Plum-headed Finches here at Eulah Creek, in the foothills of the Nandewar Range (20 km east of Narrabri). There was a mob of about 12 birds at about 8, with juveniles amongst them (photo; on the right). They were spooked by an Australian Hobby when I found them. Further information
Michael Dahlem 23/4 #223050
Diamond Firetail, Magpie Goose
Mehi River, Moree
A population of about 20-40 Magpie Geese has still been present over the last months, even following the 400 birds including 37 pairs nesting (in trampled down clumps of cumbungi) in the Gwydir Wetlands SCA in March (The wetlands are now opened for public access during April-May 2015). A single Diamond Firetail was also observed foraging, the first sighting for the township, and also in the area for years.
Curtis Hayne 25/4 #223066
Wed 22Grey Goshawk
Alstonville
A quick walk this morning to Rossmore Park (south-east Alstonville) was rewarded with my first sighting of a group of Grey Goshawks. Two white morphs and two grey morphs were seen together calling to each other and flying between gum trees. None appeared to be immature, although I can't rule out that it wasn't a family. Always exciting to see one, let alone several!
Ashwin Rudder 22/4 #223040
Bell Miner
Warriewood Wetlands
3 Bell Miners and 2 Grey Goshawks seen well at the water quality ponds today by Jayden Walsh. Greg McCarry reports that the birds were also present before the storm in Irrawong Reserve on the 15th of April. Interesting record for the Northern Beaches. JB.
Jayden Walsh, Greg McCarry 22/4 #223046
Brown Noddy, White Tern
Kurnell Peninsular
A Brown Noddy and a White Tern were the highlights of a seawatch from the whale watching shelter at Kurnell today. Also seen were 5 Shy Albatross, 25 Black-browed Albatross, 15 Fairy Prions, 50 Wedge-tailed Shearwaters, 3 Short-tailed Shearwaters, 1 Fluttering Shearwater, 1 Hutton's Shearwater, 2 Arctic Jaegers and 20 Australasian Gannets.
Rob Hynson 22/4 #223047
Australian Hobby
Fort Street Highschool, Petersham
1 birds flew over the oval at about 2pm, flying towards Lewisham. I tried my best, but couldn't string it into a Gould's Petrel. Uncommon in the Inner West, and my second record for the school.
Simon Gorta 22/4 #223048
Tue 21Budgerigar
Eulah Creek
A single male Bugerigar was found feeding on flowering grasses in our garden, 20 km east of Narrabri, moving around with a mob of Yellow-rumped Thornbills in drenching rain around noon today. Further information
Michael Dahlem 21/4 #223029
Gould's Petrel, Fairy Prion, Short-tailed Shearwater
Stockton Channel, Hunter River North Arm (just upstream from Stockton Bridge)
At least 3 Gould's Petrels seen 'working' a patch of river just up from Stockton Bridge, first found by Ian Benson about an hour before I arrived there. I suspect there were more than 3 birds but conditions were atrocious to say the least (there were others seen subsequently off Queens Wharf, about 5km to the south; see separate report). I also saw and photographed one Fairy Prion (Ian Benson had 3) and about 15 Short-tailed Shearwaters. There were no birds on the south side of the bridge at all. Also of note, there were no birds whatsoever seen during a brief seawatch over the ocean at Fort Drive (but visibility was such that only whitewash water could be seen). It would be worth checking for exhausted birds tomorrow.
Mick Roderick 21/4 #223030
White-faced Storm-petrel, Fregetta sp. Storm-petrel, Gould's Petrel
Off Queens Wharf Brewery, Newcastle Harbour
A White-faced Storm-petrel and a Fregetta sp. Storm-petrel were seen about 45 mins after the Stockton Channel observations. I had initially seen a stormy from the tug wharves that looked like a Fregetta from a distance, but after seeing a White-faced quite well (after relocating to Queens Wharf) I considered that I'd made a mistake earlier. When a 2nd stormy arrived on the scene I only saw it through the camera lens as I was getting quite wet and so just kept firing images off. Plus 2 more Gould's Petrels caused another distraction! Upon reviewing the images the second bird was a Fregetta, which appears in some images to lack black markings on the belly. The attached photo shows the Stockton Foreshore for context and has the White-faced on the left, Fregetta on the right. The White-faced Stormy was a milestone bird for me, being my 300th species seen within the boundaries of the Newcastle City Council area.
Mick Roderick 21/4 #223031
South Island Pied Oystercatcher, Australian Pied Oystercatcher
Rose Bay Beach
Whilst looking for seabirds in Sydney Harbour, noticed the South Island Pied Oystercatcher, then an Australian Pied Oystercatcher joined it feeding on the sand. Not a good day for photography, so excuse the pic.
David Mitford 21/4 #223032
Mon 20Glossy Black Cockatoo
Ulladulla
I was alerted by the call of Glossy Black Cockatoos flying over the house. Whilst looking I saw 20 birds and approximately 2/3rds of these were Yellow-tailed Black Cockatoos, though at no time did the YTBC call. On the 29/3 I also saw a flock 43 Black Cockatoos flying over the Princess Hwy just west of Racecourse Beach appearing to be a large number of Yellow-tailed Black Cockatoos with Glossy Black Cockatoos interspersed throughout. I haven't noticed this mixed species flocking before.
Bob Rusk 20/4 #223022
Fairy Prion
Mistral Point, Maroubra
Two Fairy Prions feeding in the relative shelter of north Mistral Point. 10 Black-browed Albatross and a handful of Wedge-tailed Shearwaters also observed.Very difficult to bird, set scope up in car looking north.
David Mitford 20/4 #223026
Sun 19Black-tailed Native-Hen
Lake Wallace
Single bird seen skulking in water's edge among reeds and overhanging trees. [Moderator's Note: This is probably the same individual which has been hanging around the picnic area at Lake Wallace for >2 years now. JB]. eBird checklist
Mark Ley & John French 20/4 #223019
Eastern Reef Egret
Avalon Beach
A single Dark Morph Reef Egret was feeding on the rocks around the pool at about 3:00pm
Jayden Walsh 20/4 #223023
Regent Honeyeater
Burragorang Valley
2 Regent Honeyeaters feeding amongst Yellow-faced, White-naped, White-plumed and Fuscous Honeyeaters plus Little Lorikeets in an early flowering White Box in grassy woodland on lower slopes above the Wollondilly River.
Martin Schulz 20/4 #223024
Black Kite
North Richmond
Seen gliding over road before round about. (-33.554032, 150.727444)
Alana Lindsay via Kurtis Lindsay 29/4 #223114
Sat 18Cattle Egret
Moss Vale
60 birds with five cows in a paddock on the corner of Headlam St and Argyle Rd. The most Cattle Egrets I've seen together, ever! [Moderator's Note: Unusual for the Southern Highlands, though not unexpected on passage at this time of year]
Lorne Johnson 18/4 #222996
Common Sandpiper
Burns Point, West Ballina
Single Common Sandpiper flushed from the rocks at the boat ramp near the ferry to South Ballina. eBird checklist
Steve McBride 18/4 #222997
Noisy Pitta
Matcham (Private Property)
Heard calling loudly at dusk adjacent to our backyard creek. It was likely heard foraging on the ground, but due to dense vegetation and poor light it could not be seen. Recording: https://soundcloud.com/bahoogas/noisy-pitta-trim. (Moderator's Note: Noisy Pittas since about 2000 have become regular winter visitors to rainforest gullies on the Central Coast, some even over summer. There have been regular autumn/winter reports at some Matcham-Holgate locations. AKM).
James Panetta & Anna Schutz 18/4 #223003
Little Lorikeet
Cnr Penshurst and Boundary St, Willoughby
10 birds flew over the car calling. Some spotted gum blossom is around in the area and a few Swamp Mahoganies are also flowering.
Simon Gorta 18/4 #223005
Fri 17Diamond Dove
Orange
Single bird feeding on lawn, possible escapee.
Neville Schrader 17/4 #222990
Ground Cuckoo-shrike
Eulah Creek
Alerted by the racket they were making in the air, at first I thought there were 8 Ground Cuckoo-shrikes, but later it turned out that a family of 5 (2 adults, 3 juveniles; begging calls were heard) was upsetting a local family of 3 Black-faced Cuckoo-shrikes. When they separated, the Ground Cuckoo-shrikes went to ground, while the BFCS hunted from fences. At times the Ground Cuckoo-shrikes had a sentry on a fence too (photo). Sound recordings were also taken (yet to be processed). Further information
Michael Dahlem 17/4 #222992
Thu 16Pied Butcherbird
Scheyville National Park
Two birds heard calling around 9am in/near the Pistol Range (opposite Dormitory Hill Rd). Jacky Winter observed on fences on 15/04.
Paul Burcher 16/4 #222980
Pink-eared Duck
Newington Nature Reserve
A single bird seen in the pond near the Armoury.
Lisa Abra & Lyall Naylor 16/4 #222983
Mangrove Honeyeater (2), Collared Kingfisher (1)
North Creek, Ballina
David Charley 16/4 #222987
Pacific Baza
Bellawongarah (Berry Mountain)
Heard calling in the distance at 2:15pm. One adult seen flying over trees on my boundary about 5 minutes later.
Carla Jackett 16/4 #222988
Stubble Quail
Eulah Creek
First heard on 5 April 2015, it took me a while to identify a series of calls that I had recorded. It turned out to be a male Stubble Quail issuing contact calls just after sunset. The same calls were heard again on the morning of 16 April (no visual ID; but confirmed call ID). The calls confounded me; so I am quite confident that I had not heard them before (here, 20 km East of Narrabri, or elsewhere). Recordings available in the link. Further information
Michael Dahlem 17/4 #222993
Radjah Shelduck
Bulahdelah
Found the remaining Radjah Shelduck beneath the roadbridge adjacent to the picnic grounds/riverside park. The bird then joined me at a picnic table whilst I had breakfast-many photos taken so I have posted one that identifies the location. Third time in about 5 years I have seen the bird here, after having previously observed and photographed the pair (the order bird subsequently disappeared) when they visited our campsite at The Wells campground in nearby Myall Lakes NP near a decade ago. eBird checklist
Cameron Ward 20/4 #223027
Wed 15Noisy Friarbird
Murrays Beach, Lake Macquarie
Have noticed good size congregations of Noisy Friarbirds in the afternoons. Activity seems to be concentrated on one or two large Spotted Gums, along with many Scaly-breasted and Rainbow Lorikeets in the same trees. (Moderators Note: It is usual at this time of the year for Noisy Friarbirds to move into the Central Coast and Lower Hunter Regions to feed on the flowering Swamp Mahogany and Spotted Gum, hopefully Swift Parrots and Regent Honeyeaters might follow suit as the flowering of Swamp Mahogany this year is more extensive than usual. AKM)
Rebecca Citroni 15/4 #222973
Plum-headed Finch
Llewellyn Road Casino
One Plum headed Finch only sighted associating with Double Bars. Not common on the North Coast.
June Harris 16/4 #222975
Sooty Oystercatcher
Katoomba Falls
Today and yesterday spotted a lone Sooty Oystercatcher soaring above The Jamison Valley near Katoomba Falls while traveling on the Scenic Skyway at Scenic World (where I work) in Katoomba. Very odd to see this bird in Katoomba! Will report if I see it again. [Moderator's Note: Being such an unusual record (ie away from the coast) there has been a discussion with the observer before posting. Although there are no photographs the observer is a biologist who is familiar with oystercatchers both in Australian and NZ. The bird was seen down to distances of ~10 m and the all black plumage, red bill and red eye were all noted. JB]
Lindsey Gray 23/4 #223051
Tue 14Black-necked Stork
Bombah Point Rd, Bulahdelah
Two adults and one juvenile seen beside road in wetland/paddock, feeding along with Black Swans and White-necked Heron. Photo taken with iPhone+binos.
Dan Barnet 14/4 #222961
Eastern Osprey
Werai
I was most surprised to see an Eastern Osprey perched on power lines towards the Moss Vale end of Mt Broughton Rd late this afternoon. The first time I've ever seen an Eastern Osprey away from the coast in almost 30 years of birding.
Lorne Johnson 14/4 #222963
Mon 13Brolga and Australian Shelduck
Fivebough Wetlands, Leeton
7 Brolgas and 27 Shelducks on NE site
Bob Moffatt 13/4 #222952
Powerful Owl
Steyne Rd Saratoga Waterfont
Powerful Owl sitting on the fence with adjoining property at 7:00pm. It was dark and I was outside. Due to my movement the sensor light came on and illuminated the owl when I was about 3 m away. It flew off towards the bushland to the south. I suspect that it might have been after the native Noisy Miners that roost on a nightly basis in a Cheese Tree adjacent to the fence.
Peter Sansom 13/4 #222953
Sun 12Lewin's Rail
Lions Park, Burrill Lake
The Lewin's Rail has returned after its Summer break and has joined the Buff-banded Rail at Lions Park Burrill Lake South of Ulladulla - also present are Chestnut Teal, Nankeen Night Heron, Purple Swamphen, Eastern Great Egret and Little Egret plus others Further information
Charles Dove 12/4 #222938
Chestnut-rumped Heathwren, Rose Robin, Cicadabird, White-throated Gerygone
Cattai National Park--Mitchell Park
Good morning birding in Mitchell Park this morning including a Chestnut-rumped Heathwren along the firetrail, Also present were 3 Cicadabirds, a single White-throated Gerygone was heard calling, and a few Rose Robins.
Simon Blanchflower 12/4 #222939
Little Woodswallow, Pacific Swift
Euligal State Forest, Kenebri
Atleast 15 Little Woodswallows at the southern end of Cadet Rd (-30.784096,149.176005). They were perched, feeding young, flying overhead and bombing me. There were also good numbers of White-browed Woodswallows nearby. Six Pacific Swift over the creek crossing just east of Kenebri an hour earlier. Two White-backed Swallow and 10 Turquoise Parrots were seen at The Aloes en route.
Max Breckenridge 13/4 #222947
Sat 11Grey Ternlet
29 nm E Sydney
Single Grey Ternlet gave repeat excellent views on todays Sydney pelagic trip.
Dion Hobcroft, Roger McGovern, Steve Anyon-Smith, David James et al. 11/4 #222918
White-chinned Petrel
29 nm E Sydney
Single White-chinned Petrel was another good record off Sydney on the pelagic today.
Dion Hobcroft, Roger McGovern, Steve Anyon-Smith, David James et al. 11/4 #222920
Buller's Albatross (3) Wandering Albatross (1) Campbell Albatross (1)
Offshore--Browns Mountain
Good diversity of seabirds today on the Sydney pelagic in good conditions.
Dion Hobcroft, Roger McGovern, Steve Anyon-Smith, David James et al 11/4 #222921
Barbary Dove
Wellbank St. Concord
Single bird associated with Spotted Doves.
Dion Hobcroft and David James 11/4 #222922
South Island Pied Oystercatcher, Australian Pied Oystercatcher, Sooty Oystercatchcher
Shark Island, Sydney Harbour National Park
We were joking this might be the first time three species of oystercatcher have been seen and photographed at one spot anywhere in the world! Singles of each species. A successful conclusion to the Sydney pelagic today.
Dion Hobcroft, David James, Roger McGovern, Steve Anyon-Smith et al. 11/4 #222923
Square-tailed Kite
Loop at end of Kooringal Avenue, Thornleigh -Home
Alerted by alarm calls and large movements of Noisy Miners and Rainbow Lorikeets to the arrival of a Square-tailed Kite gliding overhead at about 4PM. Disappeared and reappeared about 4 times over the next 15 or so minutes. The local pair of Magpies were the only birds to harass the raptor, as per the attached photo. First time we have seen this species here in our 20 years of residence. I note the Birdline sighting by Tom Wilson 5 days ago at relatively nearby North Turramurra, so a possibility it is the same bird. eBird checklist
Cameron Ward 11/4 #222927
Fri 10Buff-banded Rail
Macquarie University - Mars Creek
Single Buff-banded Rail observed in revegetated riparian zone of Mars Creek between Epping Highway and Link Road
Stephen Bloomfield and Paul Burcher 10/4 #222901
Kelp Gull
Coogee Beach
One adult and one juvenile Kelp Gull flying close to beach. [Moderator's Note: A number of Kelp Gulls are resident around Coogee and Botany, and are seen regularly from coastal areas. JB].
Chris and Jane Gregory 11/4 #222915
Turquoise Parrot, Red-capped Robin, Diamond Firetail, Spotted Bowerbird
Warrumbungle National Park
Four Turquoise Parrot (including a juvenile bird), a pair of Red-capped Robins and a trio of Diamond Firetails (one juvenile and an adult pair) on the slope just opposite the entrance road to the Visitor Centre site. A single Spotted Bowerbird was observed at a cattle yard just west of the park boundary. [Moderator's Note: these are exciting breeding records, providing further evidence of the area's recovery since the January 2013 fires - AR]
Max Breckenridge 13/4 #222950
Thu 9Red-browed Treecreeper, Crescent Honeyeater
Royal National Park--Lady Carrington Drive
A pair of Red-browed Treecreepers showed well today. Also seen and mostly heard was a male Crescent Honeyeater at the Waterfall Ticket booth (NE corner-where previously reported). A second Crescent Honeyeater was also heard.
Dion Hobcroft and David James 9/4 #222889
Southern Emu-wren
Fortress Ridge track, off Mount Hay Road, Blue Mountains National Park
2 females and 1 male
Mark Hocking 9/4 #222893
Regent Honeyeater
Capertee Valley--Crown Station Road at 33 09 05S 150 07 40E
1 Regent Honeyeater seen in a flowering white or maybe yellow box with Mistletoe. Masses of Red Wattle Birds, Yellow Tufted, White Plumed &Yellow-Faced Honeyeaters in a feeding frenzy. No other trees in the immediate surrounds in flower. Also seen at the junction were Diamond Fire-Tails, White-Browed Babblers, Crimson Rosellas & Little Lorikeets. A delightful end to 2 days in Capertee Valley.
Kerry Allen 9/4 #222895
Pallid Cuckoo
Eulah Creek
An immature Pallid Cuckoo was seen hunting off fence pickets around midday, 20 km east of Narrabri; it let me get quite close on the mower (unfortunately I did not have a camera with me for a photo). Further information
Michael Dahelm 10/4 #222896
Forest Raven
Gibraltar Reserve, Gwydir Highway
Two Forest Ravens seen and heard by 3 observers and the local Australian Ravens (they were less pleased than the birders). Although present a few Km's west of here in Gibraltar Range NP, they rarely visit us at the foot of the range.
Simon Clayton 10/4 #222899
Buller's Albatross
Royal National Park--Wattamolla
1 Buller's Albatross seen at a moderate distance in a late afternoon seawatch. Flew next to an adult Shy Albatross for a short while, allowing us to easily compare the relative sizes of the birds, and their underwings. The grey head on the Buller's was also visible although we could not make out the yellow on the bill. Black-browed Albatross were common, as were Wedge-tailed Shearwaters. Two, possibly three distant Commic terns were also seen, but were too distant to identify further. Also heard and glimpsed the Crescent Honeyeater with Dion and David near Waterfall.
Simon Gorta, Ashwin Rudder and Aaron Payne 10/4 #222905
Rufous Fantail
Great Buckingham St., Redfern NSW
A late migrant returning northwards.
Michael Edwards 22/4 #223041
Wed 8Pectoral and Wood Sandpipers and Brolgas
Fivebough Wetlands
A visit this morning after some rain yesterday produced 6 Pectorals, 1 Wood and 1 Marsh Sandpiper plus Sharpies but a dive bombing Peregrine sent them scattering and they didn't return. Also 3 Swamp Harriers kept putting everything up as they flopped past overhead. There are now 9 Brolgas plus Shelduck, and Stilt. Spotted and Spotless Crake are about but require patience and luck to see.
Max O'Sullivan 8/4 #222881
Freckled Duck, Blue-billed Duck
Lithgow Wastewater Treatment Plant
Six Freckled Duck and four Blue-billed Duck. More than a hundred Pink-eared Duck and around 40 Australian Shovelers also present. Another 6 Blue-billed Duck at Lake Wallace, but no Musk Ducks.
Max Breckenridge 13/4 #222948
Spotted Quail-Thrush
8km N of Capertee
A single female flushed from the side of the Castlereagh Hwy north of Capertee (-33.098265,149.957407).
Max Breckenridge 13/4 #222949
Tue 7Channel-billed Cuckoo
Centennial Park
Channel-billed Cuckoo being chased by Noisy Miners (11.30am)
Marie Lister 7/4 #222874
Mon 6Plumed Whistling-Duck
Taronga Zoological Park (Sydney)
23+ Plumed Whistling-Ducks seen this morning associating with captive PWDs at the Top Wetlands Ponds near the main entrance of the zoo. These birds were seen by other people as well and spent quite a lot of time circling low above the Ponds and spent some time on the Top Pond (Lignum Pond) with the captive PWDs.
Barton Tait 6/4 #222854
Square-tailed Kite
Bobbin Head Rd, North Turramurra
Single bird passed east-west over my house approx 11:30 am.
Tom Wilson 6/4 #222856
possible Brahminy Kite
South Creek, Windsor
what appeared to be a Brahminy Kite - distinctive white head and chestnut body - perched high on an exposed branch along South Creek. About 100m east of Windsor Rd midway between Pitt Town Rd and Macquarrie St at 2.30pm while driving along Windsor Rd. [Moderator Comment: this would be a range extension, both south and inland. It is being published in the hope that someone will see it and take photos - AR]
Mike Felstead 6/4 #222858
Sun 5Glossy Black-Cockatoo
Long Beach
6 Glossy Black Cockatoo Blairs rd Long Beach
Tony Dawe 5/4 #222846
Chestnut-breasted Quail-thrush
Gundabooka National Park--Dry Tank Campground
At the end of my walk on the little Mountain trail, I stumbled across a female Chestnut-breasted Quail-thrus, approximately 150m from the track start point. The female was caught in the open trying her best to find cover.
Andrew O'Brien 5/4 #222848
Sat 4Eastern Koel
Mascot
Adult male being mobbed by Noisy Miners in park, corner Coward Street & Botany Road, flew into large fig tree.
David Mitford 5/4 #222844
Red-tailed Black Cockatoo, Red-backed Kingfisher
Gundabooka National Park--Yanda Creek Road dam
Had two Red-tailed Black Cockatoo's fly over the Darling river late in the afternoon. Then at the five mile heritage site on the Yanda trtrack, found a lone Red-backed Kingfisher sitting in a tree at the car park.
Andrew O'Brien 5/4 #222847
Fuscous Honeyeater, Eastern Spinebill
Goobang NP, east of Peak Hill
Two or three of each in the mixed euc. forest N of Gingham Gap in the 32.45/148.25 10 min. grid. I report these with some diffidence, but was encouraged to do so by people who thought that these would be towards the western edge of their regular distribution. [Moderator's Note: Yes, both species are at the western edge of their distribution and known from Goobang as not particularly rare, however worth publishing for interests sake. JB].
Ted Nixon 8/4 #222883
Fri 3Freckled Duck
Farm dam at Glandore Winery, Broke Road, Pokolbin
Single bird. Aust. Shoveler and Hoary-headed Grebe also present.
Ivor Jones 3/4 #222823
Chestnut-breasted Mannikin
Tallawarra Ash Pond 3, Yallah
Party of 12 in bulrushes SE drainage channel observed & photoed from Hayward Bay Dr . Mixture of juvenile, immatures & adults. Other birds in that area, large flock of European Gold Finches, 6 Red-browed Finches & 3 Golden-headed Cisticolas. eBird checklist
Paul Lynch 4/4 #222832
Diamond Dove
Durridgere State Conservation Area (Upper Hunter Valley)
A Diamond Dove was seen by several members of the Hunter Bird Observers Club Easter campers at Durridgere SCA (north of Ulan) on Friday. I wasn't with them but I understand that the bird was seen around the campsite (which incidentally you need special permission to use) on Friday and people arriving mid-afternoon missed it and it wasn't seen again. This is a very rare bird in the Hunter, or any coastal catchment in NSW. There was apparently a Black-eared Cuckoo seen regularly at the camp as well, amongst 104 species, which isn't bad considering there are no wetlands and it is early April. Photograph by Lorna Mee.
Hunter Bird Observers Club members per Mick Roderick 7/4 #222879
Thu 2White-throated Needletail (190)
Wentworth Falls Blue Mountains
Two flocks of Needletails passed slowly high overhead about 30 minutes apart at Kings Tableland this morning. The first had about 70 birds and the second about 120, they were moving slowly north with the south-westerly wind in warm and overcast conditions. This is the largest number I have seen for many years in the Blue Mountains. eBird checklist
Mark Ley 2/4 #222807
Leaden Flycatcher
Cowan - Old Tollgates
One female Leaden Flycatcher observed about midday just west of Pacific Highway northbound land. Species infrequently observed in area. Also seen: Superb Fairy-wren, Fantailed Cuckoo, Brown Thornbill, Australian Raven, Black-faced Cuckoo-shrike, Red Wattlebird, Masked Plover.
Paul Burcher 2/4 #222812
Brolga
Fivebough Wetlands
7 Brolgas and 16 Australian Shelducks as well as about 28 other species were seen.
Anthony Katon 2/4 #222813
Rose Robin (3)
Royal National Park--Lady Carrington Drive
It was nice to see Rose Robins mixing with the summer holidaymakers like Leaden Flycatcher, Rufous Fantail and Black-faced Monarch. Also a pair of Crested Shrike-tit.
Lorand Szucs 2/4 #222814
White-throated Needletail
The Southern Highlands
There were dozens of White-throated Needletails flying over various Southern Highland towns this arvo... Bundanoon, Exeter (where some were flying low over rooftops), Sutton Forest, Moss Vale, Bowral and Mittagong... the most I've ever seen down here.
Lorne Johnson 2/4 #222818
Wood Sandpiper (3)
Bruxner Highway at Emigrant Creek
3 Wood Sandpiper in wetland adjacent the new Bruxner Hwy bridge being constructed over Emigrant Creek just west of Ballina. Also 4 Marsh Sandpiper, 42 Sharp-tailed Sandpiper & 1 Shoveler amongst the more common wetland birds. eBird checklist
Steven McBride 4/4 #222829
Blue-winged Parrot, Orange Chat
Balranald-Ivanhoe Road (Saltbush plains)
Three Blue-winged Parrots seen by the roadside. Perhaps migrants or on transit. Also a least a couple of Orange Chats with White-fronted Chats on the saltbush plains. eBird checklist
Michael Ramsey 12/4 #222935
Wed 1Square-tailed Kite and Powerful Owl
Murray St Bateau Bay
An adult Square-tailed Kite circled low over my house at 1000 hrs today when I was out in my yard and then at 1030 hrs, I saw another (but looked like the same bird) 2kms west of my house on Eastern Way Killarney Vale. On 31/3/15 between 3.10 to 4.30 hrs a Powerful Owl was calling outside my house. On 28/3/2015, at 3.15 am two Powerful Owls were heard calling while on 10/3/15, one bird was seen and heard same place at 10.45 pm, and another was heard calling in the distance. Finally today at 1630 hrs an adult Powerful Owl was roosting in the forest at the northern end of Bateau Bay Beach, about 500m north of my house. As it is over two years since a Powerful Owl was heard at my place, it looks as if some one is setting up a territory around here now.
Alan Morris 1/4 #222803
Rose Robin, Azure Kingfisher
Newmans Rd Glenorie
2 Azure Kingfishers and 1 male Rose Robin.
Keith Brandwood 2/4 #222804
Square-tailed Kite
Scheyville Nat Park Scheyville
1 Adult STK hunting over woodland junction of Scheyville and Pitt Town Dural Rd
Keith Brandwood 2/4 #222805
Black-backed Wagtail (Possible and likely Wagtail sp.)
North Tuncurry
SIGHTING FROM APRIL 1ST: One individual observed in open grassland in the foredunes adjacent to Tuncurry Golf Course. -32.158611, 152.504722. The bird was very approachable (we almost ran over it) before it flew approximately 15 m away. Had distinctive up and down tail motion. [Moderator's Note: Today (15th April) iPhone quality photo received which is non-conclusive although basic impression of the bird looks like a Wagtail sp. SB)
Sue Gould 11/4 #222911
March 2015
Tue 31White-winged Triller & Brown Honeyeater
Pippi Point, nr Lintern St Wharf, Davistown
An immature brown White-winged Triller was seen on a foreshore reserve at Pippi Pt Davistown, the only vegetation being Swamp Oak, Banksias and mowed grass of the Reserve. Also present were a group of 5 Brown Honeyeaters that were feeding in the mistletoe flowers of the Swamp Oaks, Brown Honeyeaters on the Central Coast are normally associated with mangroves.
Alan Morris & Steven Edwards 1/4 #222802
White-winged Chough
West Lindfield Shopping Centre
A party of 4 choughs observed in the rear car park of the West Lindfield shopping centre at midday
Lorna Bloom 3/4 #222819
Mon 30Little Woodswallow
Cox's Rd, Pilliga forest
A small flock of about 12 Little Woodswallows were a nice surprise on an otherwise very quiet morning in the Pilliga.
Marc Anderson 30/3 #222774
Glossy Black Cockatoo, Musk Lorikeet
Berowra Valley Regional Park - Hornsby Hts
1 Pair of Glossies arrived on the afternoon of the 28th. Third year running now, back to their large Angophora nesting tree, hopefully we see chicks this year. Though the Sulpher-crested cockatoos are not making it easy for them to resettle. Also a substantial flock of Musk Lorikeet feeding in the flowering red gums on Rofe Crs over the past 2 weeks. A first for me!!
Lian Gallacher 30/3 #222776
Streaked and Buller's Shearwaters, Antipodean and Shy Albatrosses
Port Stephens pelagic
Few of the 20 species seen outside of the heads on the Port Stephens pelagic today were in deep water, with most of the more 'interesting' birds seen on the way out or way back in. These included Streaked and Buller's Shearwaters (amongst 7 spp. of shearwaters), a banded Antipodean (Gibson's) Albatross and a Shy-type Albatross that looks good for a steadi. There were a few Grey-faced and Solander's Petrels at the shelf as well as the first Port Stephens storm-petrels (Wilson's and White-faced) since November 2014, 5 trips ago! Quite a few first year Australasian Gannets about too.
Mick Roderick and all aboard the MV Argonaut 30/3 #222778
Wandering Tattler (5)
Flat Rock, Ballina
5 Wandering Tattlers on Flat Rock again yesterday 30th Apr. 3 in breeding plumage, 1 in partial breeding plumage & 1 in non-breeding. eBird checklist
Steven McBride 31/3 #222791
Turquoise Parrot, Diamond Firetail
Warrumbungle National Park--Camp Blackman
About 6 Turquoise Parrots seen along the main creek near park HQ (Camp Blackman) as well as a couple of Diamond Firetails.
Marc Anderson 1/4 #222798
Sun 29Plumed Whistling-duck
Pughs Lagoon
14 Plumed Whistling-ducks observed in the lagoon during a CBOC outing this morning. eBird checklist Further information
Jenny & Rod Stiles, Peter & Carol Abbott & CBOC members. 29/3 #222759
Pink-eared Duck
Powells Lane, Richmond Lowlands
A pair of Pink-eared ducks with 4 ducklings seen this morning on a CBOC outing this morning. A rare breeding event for Cumberland County. eBird checklist Further information
Jenny & Rod Stiles, Peter & Carol Abbott & CBOC members. 29/3 #222760
Pink-eared Duck
Taronga Western Plains Zoo, Dubbo
Spotted a solitary Pink-eared Duck at the waters edge on the wetlands lake. Don't get them in the zoo very often, but nice to see any way.
Andrew O'Brien 29/3 #222761
South Island Pied Oystercatcher
Shark Island, NSW
Flying around the eastern side of the island late this morning
Biggles Csolander 29/3 #222762
Little Lorikeet
Lower Pappinbarra
8 Little Lorikeet seen this afternoon flying low towards the North East. Lots of flowering gums here. Rainbow, Scaly-breasted and Musk Lorikeets also around every day lately, as well as many Honeyeaters. eBird checklist
Ian Kerr 29/3 #222765
Brown Honeyeater, Sacred Kingfisher and Latham's Snipe
Eastlakes golf course
2 Brown Honeyeaters back again near track that separates the two golf courses feeding on flowering paperbarks. A Sacred Kingfisher and 6 Latham's Snipe also present, the latter I'm sure won't be around for much longer.
David Mitford 30/3 #222775
Sat 28Scarlet Honeyeater
Warriewood Wetlands and Irrawong Reserve
This morning in Warriewood Wetlands there were roughly 40 Scarlet Honeyeaters however there is little flowering but plenty of buds.
Jayden Walsh 28/3 #222743
Crescent Honeyeater
Royal National Park - McKell Avenue
Site as described my Marc on Thursday - at least 2 (probably more) Crescent Honeyeaters heard and observed. Difficulty arose as they were very cryptic (more so than usual), keeping surprisingly low in dense shrubs, calling infrequently.
Joshua Bergmark, Ashwin Rudder, David Mitford 28/3 #222749
NO South Island Pied Oystercatcher
Chowder Bay
No signs of the SIPO at Chowder Head at low tide this morning. When I checked the tide levels, I found that the low tide level last Sunday (when I saw the bird feeding on exposed rocks) was at .2 meters. Today low tide was at .6 meters, which means the rocks visible last Sunday were under water today. The next tide coming below .5 meters will be on the 15th of April. Not sure it this is really relevant, but I think it is likely. There was also significantly more activity in the harbour today compared to last week.
Alfred Schulte 28/3 #222750
Powerful Owl
Murray St Bateau Bay
A male Powerful Owl was calling strongly and persistently at this site at 3.15 am. This follows on from when the same bird (?) was calling strongly at 10.15 pm on the evening of 10 March 2015 and was kept under observation in a tree in my front yard for 15 minutes. At that time another Powerful Owl was heard calling some distance away. These are the first Powerful Owls at this site for two years.
Alan Morris 29/3 #222769
Buller's Albatross and Yellow-nosed Albatross
SOSSA Wollongong pelagic
2 Buller's Albatross and an Indian Yellow-nosed Albatross were the highlights of the March pelagic. One of the Buller's was a 3rd year bird based initially on the incompletely developed bill pattern and paler grey head and confirmed based on the primary moult pattern. Also seen were good numbers of Pomarine Jaegers, 1 Long-tailed Jaeger, Grey-faced Petrel, Black-browed, Shy and Campbell Island Albatross, Short-tailed Shearwaters and 1 Sooty Shearwater.
Robert Hynson on behalf of all on board the Sandra K 30/3 #222780
Pacific Emerald Dove
Royal Botanic Gardens (Sydney)
A single Emerald Dove, of the eastern race, seen perched in a eucalypt in the gardens near the Maiden Pavilion. No bands present - suggests that this bird is a wild one moving through.
Genemar Ignacio per Ashwin Rudder from Facebook 10/4 #222906
Fri 27Double-banded Plover and Eastern Curlew
Deeban Spit, Port Hacking
First sighting of the 7 Double-Banded Plovers that are regular winter visitors in the grass area at the end of the spit. Also 3 eastern curlews that may be overwintering like they did last year at 2.30, high tide.
Julie Keating 27/3 #222737
Pink- eared Duck, Freckled Duck
Cowra Sewage Works
There were 100-150 Pink-ears at the Cowra sewage ponds along with Grey Teal, Pacific Black Duck , Hardhead and 6+ Freckled Ducks when a group of us from Ulladulla visited the area. These will be entered on eBird checklist
Bob Rusk 30/3 #222772
Beach Stone-curlew
Urunga Boardwalk
A single Beach Stone-curlew arrived on the mudflat at Urunga Heads on the morning of 27 March, at about 8 am. It is banded on both legs - one yellow, one grey. Further information
Michael Dahlem 31/3 #222783
Diamond Firetail
TSR adjacent to Daisy Hill Station - 30deg 29min 34sec, 152deg 09min 24sec, c50km east of Armidale
10+ Diamond Firetails ca400m N of TSR entrance gate. An old Diamond Firetail nest (last season?) at site. An easterly record for the species?
Richard Jordan and Mike Jarvis 6/4 #222850
Thu 26Double-barred Finch
Botany 1' Cell
During a short stop at the Engine Pond, I heard the nasal call and found one bird (white rump) loosely associating with a group of yellow-rumped thornbills on the ground among the Casuarinas, along the western end. Possibly an aviary escapee as it was alone, but it's the right subspecies to be a wild bird. I've never seen this species anywhere near here. [Moderator's note: the nearest breeding population is Sydney Olympic Park, 15km north-west of here - AR] eBird checklist
Rob Child 26/3 #222731
Crescent Honeyeater
Royal National Park - McKell Avenue
A Crescent Honeyeater was heard singing along the creek near the small entrance booth on Mckell Ave. Park at the old picnic area next to the ticket booth on the way out of the Waterfall end and the bird was calling high up in trees in the creek gully at the far east end (downstream). Rarely reported from Royal NP and this is the first time I've heard one there myself.
Marc Anderson 27/3 #222734
Marsh Sandpiper, Wood Sandpiper, Red-necked Avocet
Pitt Town Lagoon
2 Marsh S P AND 1 Wood SP 1 Red-necked Avocet
Keith Brandwood 27/3 #222739
Wed 25Powerful Owl
Russell St Wollstonecraft
Male Powerful Owl called for approximately 5 minutes just before 12.15am. Couldn't see him, but fairly sure he was at the top of bushy tree in the yard.
Lindy Jones 25/3 #222710
Topknot Pigeon, Superb Fairy-wren with leucism
Penrith Railway Station (North Side)
At 2pm a single Topknot Pigeon was perched in a tall tallowwood tree on army land. I observed it with my binnies for some time. My first ever sighting of TP in Penrith suburbia. I rushed home for my camera to no avail - it had left while I was away. I noticed a group of Superb Fairywrens, one of which had leucism of its tail feathers. It has been present here for at least 6 weeks. (Photo attached was taken today).
Bob Sinclair 25/3 #222716
White-rumped Sandpiper
Shoalhaven Heads--Inlet
This bird flew in to where Red-necked Stint and Golden Plover were foraging near the waters edge and around me in the area of very extensive mud flats. I observed the bird for 30 minutes.
Jean Casburn 26/3 #222726
Tue 24Kermadec Petrel, White-bellied Storm Petrel
Ball's Pyramid Lord Howe Island
3 light phase and 2 dark phase Kermadec Petrel seen at Ball's Pyramid along with 1000's of Grey Ternlet and few Common Noddy. 10 White-bellied Storm Petrel seen in deep water along with Masked Booby, Wedge-tailed and Flesh- footed Shearwater. 500-1000 Providence Petrels noted -most closer to LHI
Allan and Rob Benson, Mike Kuhl and Michael Scobie 28/3 #222748
Mon 23Kelp Gulls
Lake Illawarra estuary (Windang)
2 adult Kelp Gulls roosting on the exposed sandspit near Pine Tree Park this morning.
Bec and Nigel Coghlan 23/3 #222694
Long-billed Corella
South Cowra sports Grounds
6 Long-billed Corella's, with two feeding flying young. 500+ Little Corella's also present on the sports ground.
Neville Schrader 25/3 #222713
White-bellied Storm Petrel
5 km NE Admiralty Islands Lord Howe Island
30+ White-bellied Storm Petrel, Kermadec Petrel(1), Black-winged Petrel (5), Providence Petrel (10), Masked Booby(10), Grey Ternlet(100's), Flesh-footed(20) and Wedge-tailed Shearwater(20), Red-tailed Tropicbird (50), Common Noddy(100's) and Black Noddy (10) were seen on boat trip to and beyond Admiralty Islands. Wandering Tattler and Sooty Tern also seen.
Allan and Rob Benson, Alan Morris, Mike Kuhl, Michael Scobie and Judy Leitch 28/3 #222746
Sun 22Pectoral Sandpiper
Pitt Town Lagoon
2 Pectoral Sandpipers were still present at the Lagoon this morning at the same spot as previously reported
Jayden Walsh and Matt Hansen 22/3 #222677
Brown Booby
Potato Point
A single bird. probably a juvenile roosting on rocks with Great Cormorants
Roger Williams Jane Wright 22/3 #222679
Emerald Dove
Yallah Bay Road, Tallawarra
Observed & photoed in woodland on south side of road. 6 Bar-shouldered Doves also viewed & photoed. See checklist for other bush passerines observed. eBird checklist
Paul Lynch 22/3 #222680
South Island Pied Oystercatcher
Chowder Bay
South Island Pied Oystercatcher Chowder Head SIPO seen feeding on a rock to the RIGHT of the track comming down to the shore line at low tide. When the rock got under water it relocated to the usual site it had been reported before. Thanks for the description how to get there. Further information
Alfred Schulte with Dave, Ian and Hazel (I hope I got this right) 22/3 #222685
White-rumped Sandpiper
Shoalhaven Heads
Observed at high tide roost on dune between ocean and inlet as described by others. Lots of double-banded plovers also present. Red necked stints and bar-tailed godwits colouring up nicely.
Mel Mitchell & Joy Sanderson 22/3 #222687
Sooty Owl
Springfield
At 11pm I heard the bomb whistle call of a Sooty Owl outside my house closely followed by another. I went outside and found the owl trilling excitedly, high up in a hollow bearing Blackbutt. A second bird was trilling from another Blackbutt 50m away. After 5 minutes, the second bird joined the first and they both moved lower down in the tree towards the hollow, trilling all the time. Five minutes later they went quiet and disappeared into Rumbalara Reserve. My first record of this species in Springfield.
Nick Carson 23/3 #222690
Grey-tailed Tattler
Fern Bay oyster-racks
High number of 34 Grey-tailed Tattlers loafing on a very ricketty, long, narrow timber "wharf" at the Fern Bay oyster-beds at high tide (very high on this particular day). They were spread fairly evenly, mostly in pairs, along the full length of the structure, as per the attached photo. Apologies for the extremely poor quality of the photo, as they were taken on a waterproof compact during light rain whilst seated in my kayak. Whilst participating in a Farewell Shorebirds count of Bar-tailed Godwits at Stockton Sandspit several hours later this species along with Red-necked Avocets were about the only likely wader species who put on a "no show", although I was told that 21 to 25 had been reported on a recent count. eBird checklist
Cameron Ward 24/3 #222708
Herald Petrel
Offshore - Eden pelagic
Single bird sighted by Canberra Ornithologists Group pelagic trip from Eden last Sunday. ID verified from photographs. Other birds sighted included Kermadec Petrel, Black-browed Albatross, Campbells Albatross, Gibson's (Wandering) Albatross - including all-chocolate young bird - Buller's Albatross, Shy Albatross, Streaked Shearwater. Further information
Sandra Henderson + 11 other observers 28/3 #222742
Black-tailed Godwit,
Lord Howe Island Airport
1 Black-tailed Godwit observed feeding with Bar-tails. This is a rare sighting for Lord Howe. Only 1 Song Thrush seen once - obviously becoming scarcer. However, Buff banded Rail and Lord Howe Island Woodhen numbers have exploded since last visit in 1995 presumably reflecting the removal of cats from the island.
Allan Benson and Mike Kuhl 29/3 #222753
Sat 21Eastern Koel
Bobbin Head Rd, North Turramurra
Single bird heard calling (but not seen) at 9am. Getting a bit late in the year I would have thought.
Tom Wilson 21/3 #222654
Kelp Gull
Long Reef Aquatic Reserve
A juvenile Kelp Gull seen today at Long Reef during the monthly wader count. We haven't seen one there before in the several years of wader surveys that we have done. Also 2 Caspian Terns and several Pacific Golden Plovers in near complete breeding plumage.
Jenny and Rod Stiles 21/3 #222659
South Island Pied Oystercatcher
Chowder Head
The SIPO is still present at the place previously reported at Chowder Bay. It fed happily on the rocks to the joy of many bird photographers around 3.30 pm. It was still there when I left.
Bernie OKeefe 21/3 #222664
South Island Pied Oystercatcher
Chowder Head
SIPO at the usual site 2 hours before low tide. Path down to beach can be confusing. Go right at 3 forked/trunked tree which eventually leads to steps to beach. Go straight on path at this point and path ends at a cliff. SIPO preening, feeding and seems to be at home on outer rock platform.
Chris Gregory 21/3 #222665
Probable Satin Flycatcher, Australasian Figbird, White-bellied Cuckoo-shrike, Australian Hobby,
Douglas Farm Rd, Kurrajong Hills
Flock of 16+ Aust Figbirds in remnant rainforest along creek - first record for me west of Windsor. All female-type plumage except one partially-coloured male. Female type flycatcher in roadside acacias (extensive orangey wash from throat to lower breast but also a darker grey sheen to the crown and upper sides of head indicative of Satin, however I have seen neither species here before) and a dark phase White-bellied Cuckoo-shrike were also both new for my local list as was a New Holland Honeyeater and White-necked Heron. Also of interest a Rufous Fantail and an Australian Hobby. eBird checklist
Eric Finley 22/3 #222675
Brown Booby and Streaked Shearwater
Mistral Point, Maroubra
A late Streaked Shearwater seen today, but the highlight was a Brown Booby flying south hot on the heels of an Australasian Gannet, only my second Brown Booby ever here. This following behaviour mirrored that of the Masked Booby we saw in 2013. Record shot attached, massively cropped of course, as the bird was a long way out.
David Mitford 22/3 #222681
Rockwarbler
Brisbane Water National Park
4 birds northern end of Patonga Drive Further information
Greg Roberts 23/3 #222689
Fri 20Oriental Cuckoo
Tallawudjah Creek, Glenreagh
A pair of cuckoo were observed at dusk last night and confirmed as Oriental Cuckoo this morning. They were coming to the ground under a defoliated white cedar to feed on the collar of hairy caterpillar gathered at the base. Now i keep a year list and a life list (like most i guess) but also a block list ie birds recorded within the property boundary only. With a flock of white-breasted woodswallow also observed this morning the block list stands at 145 species.
Pete Knock 20/3 #222638
Fork-tailed Swift (4)
Royal National Park--Lady Carrington Drive
An excellent morning with great birds. Also 15+ White-throated Nedletails, Grey Goshawk (white morph), Rufous Fantail, Crested Shrike-tit (3), Topknot Pigeon(25+), Wedge-tailed Eagle (pair), Azure Kingfisher and a White-throated Treecreeper.
Lorand Szucs 20/3 #222642
Australasian Shoveler (>350) + numbers of other water/shore birds
Deep Pond North, Kooragang Island (Hunter Estuary)
There were 353 Aussie Shovelers on Deep Pond North this morning during the monthly count. I thought this number of this species on the coast was report-worthy. There are many hundreds of other water/shore birds also present, e.g. Black-winged Stilt (444), Red-necked Avocet (611), Black-tailed Godwit (8), Marsh Sandpiper (41; these birds have been faithful to Deep Pond North for the whole summer), Grey Teal (650), Chestnut Teal (1310) and Pink-eared Duck (309). 5 Freckled Ducks were reported here 2 weeks ago but I could not find them amongst the hordes today. There are now two 'Deep Ponds' due to the recent construction of a rail flyover that has severed the 'old' Deep Pond. The northerly of the two remnant ponds is by far the most significant of the two. This northerly pond (referred to as 'Deep Pond North') lies beneath the site of the proposed (and recently recommended for approval) T4 project, so its days may be numbered.
Mick Roderick 20/3 #222643
South Island Pied Oystercatcher
Chowder Head
SIPO at the usual spot at 2.30pm
David Hair 20/3 #222644
Speckled Warblers
Scheyville National Park
Four Speckled Warblers seen feeding on a track near the back gate. eBird checklist
Elisabeth Karplus 20/3 #222646
White-rumped Sandpiper
Shoalhaven Heads - Inlet
Reported yesterday by Lachlan Hall. Bird still present this morning between 10:00-11:15 with the Red-necked Stints and a good number of Double-banded Plovers. Located near waters edge about 30 mins after high tide roosting and preening in small sand dune. Was flushed by a Hobby and ended up back at beach side dunes a little later. Strong winds and stormy weather approaching as I left. Two Sydney birders were leaving as we arrived who saw it before 10:00am roosting in the sand dunes with the RNST. Nice to see a Red-bellied black snake walking back to the car park. eBird checklist
Carla Jackett, Phil Craven 20/3 #222648
Red-tailed Tropicbird
Warden Head Ulladulla
A lone Red-tailed Tropic bird was one of the many seabirds present this afternoon at wardens head, 4 Black-browed Albatross, 2 Shy Albatross, 2 Wandering Albatross, 10+ Wedge-tailed Shearwaters, various Terns and Cormorants along with over 35 Sooty Oystercatchers.
Charles Dove 20/3 #222649
Thu 19White-rumped Sandpiper
Shoalhaven Heads
Hanging out with the many stints on the sandbar. It was a nice surprise to catch up with this little fellow again, back where it was first sighted at Shoalhaven Heads.
Lachlan Hall, Duade Paton, Matt Jones 19/3 #222624
Pacific Baza
Rosebank
I was looking to see if about 25 White-throated Needletails that I saw earlier were still around, but instead there were 11 Pacific Bazas circling overhead in midday heat of 33C.
Phil Murray 19/3 #222628
Ground Parrot
Hyams Beach Rd, Jervis Bay
Two parrots feeding on the edge of the road on the way out of Hyams Beach at 5.45pm. They allowed close viewing from the car to within 2m without being disturbed.
Max O'Sullivan 19/3 #222633
White-bellied Cuckoo-shrike
Terrigal
Single WBCS heard calling and then seen flying over Star of the Sea primary school. WBCS are uncommon on the Central Coast and this is the first one I've seen east of the M1 having lived locally for 35+ years.
Nick Carson 20/3 #222639
Glossy Black Cockatoo
South West Rocks
Total 8 birds in Arakook Reserve Further information
Greg Roberts 23/3 #222688
Wed 18Pectoral Sandpiper
Pitt Town Lagoon
3 Pectoral Sandpipers still present at Pitt Town Lagoon at the Lagoon Rd end. Large mixed flocks of juvenile Nutmeg & Chestnut-breasted Mannikin feeding in the reeds and grasses.
Jenny Stiles and Carol Abbott 19/3 #222630
Regent Honeyeater
Crown Station Road, Capertee Valley
50 metres to the south of Capertee Valley bird trail # 5 sign. Also White-plumed Honeyeaters in adjacent trees eBird checklist
Paul Jensen 19/3 #222635
‘Striped Storm-Petrel’, White-bellied Storm-Petrel, Collared Petrel, Long-tailed Jaeger
Britannia Seamount off far northern New South Wales
Highlights were 1 ‘Striped’ and 3 White-bellied Storm-petrels (see photograph), 5 Antipodean/Gibson’s Albatross (one with an off-white DARVIC band with the code ‘014’ on its left leg), 2 Red-tailed Tropicbirds, 1 Red-footed Booby, 1 Long-tailed Jaeger and 3 White Terns. A Collared Petrel (intermediate morph) was seen by two participants. In addition we saw Wedge-tailed and Flesh-footed Shearwaters, Tahiti, Kermadec, Grey-faced, Providence (2), Gould's and White-necked Petrels, a Pomarine Jaeger, Sooty Terns and Oceanic Bottlenose Dolphins. For more photographs click link. Further information
Nikolas Haass & Raja Stephenson and everyone else on Paul Walbridge's SEQ Seamount Pelagic 28/3 #222740
Tue 17Gang-gang Cockatoo
Bloom Hill Road, O'Connell (between Bathurst & Oberon)
Flock of at least 40 Gang-gangs flying between large old Yellow Boxes on a creekline adjacent to the road, just before dusk. I've never seen a flock of this size before. Landholder was surprised to hear that the species is threatened, since there were so many of them here! She reported that they come into her yard to feed on the Cotoneaster berries (which I've seen them do elsewhere in the Central West). -33.56107, 149.71565
Tiffany Mason 18/3 #222607
Mon 16South Island Pied Oystercatcher
Chowder Head
The SIPO is still showing very well at its usual spot (described in earlier postings) and we were able to easily observe and photograph it. It was undisturbed by nearby fishermen. It also did a brief circular flight and enabled us to observe all of its features. A great Sydney sighting!
Dave Koffel and Bob McKenzie 16/3 #222579
Wandering Tattler (5), Common Noddy
Flat Rock, Ballina
5 Wandering Tattlers roosting on the rock this evening, my highest count ever for Flat Rock. Also an immature Common Noddy & a White-winged Tern amongst the other regular Terns & waders. eBird checklist
Steven McBride 16/3 #222582
Sun 15Rainbow Bee-eater
Eulah Creek
30 Rainbow Bee-eaters congregating and preparing for migration seen this morning around 9:00, flying about 100 m high up. Later in the day, at around 15:00, saw another flock of 20 congregating about 15 km east of Burren Junction (near Pian Creek). No photos, but recorded calls at Pian Creek. Further information
Michael Dahlem 15/3 #222562
Brush Cuckoo
Knudsen Reserve, Riverstone
Seen an adult and juvenile Brush Cuckoo this afternoon between 4pm and 5pm
Stephen and Antonella Gilmour 15/3 #222566
Australian Shelduck
Hexham Swamp Nature Reserve
The pair of Shelducks was present in the same pond as reported by Mick Roderick (10th March). Other nice sightings included 10 Common Greenshanks, several Pacific Golden Plovers (c.10), a Buff-banded Rail, good numbers of Royal Spoonbill (25+), White-fronted Chat (c.20) and teal (1000+ combined of both sp.).
Ashwin Rudder 15/3 #222569
White-tailed Tropicbird
Lord Howe Island
Photographed while on day 1 of Birdweek with Ian Hutton's Lord Howe Island Nature Tours. [Moderator's Note: Initially identified and published as a Red-billed Tropicbird, which would be Australia's third record, the consensus is that this is in fact a (probably subadult) White-tailed Tropicbird, as Red-billed would not have 8-9 pure white primaries, and should have a much more obviously barred rump. AR] Further information
Jim Allen 15/3 #222570
Eastern Ground Parrot, Eastern Bristlebird
Barren Grounds Nature Reserve
Eastern Ground Parrot flushed at the start of the service trail on the way back from walking to the end. Very windy day. Flew off towards the hut and then took a sharp right back around and then called once (assuming it was the same bird). Single Eastern Bristlebird also seen at the start of the service trail.
Charles Hunter 16/3 #222572
Buller's Albatross and Long-tailed Jaegers
Mistral Point, Maroubra
My first Buller's for a couple of years at Maroubra. Also lots of Jaegers: 9 Long-tailed, 30 Pomarine and 1 Arctic. A large feeding event occurred with 700 'brown' birds feeding in a rolling flock. 20 Flesh- footed Shearwater, 2 Sooty Shearwater, 5 Short-tailed Shearwater, 5 Fluttering Shearwaters and 2 Shy Albatross seen today as well
David Mitford 16/3 #222584
Pectoral Sandpipers
Pitt Town Lagoon
3 Pectoral Sandpipers observed at the Lagood Rd end of the wetland mid afternoon, 2 feeding together and a third bird located approximately 200m away. Also present were 30+ Pink-eared Ducks, 2 Black-fronted Dotterels as well as various cormorants, pelicans, teals Masked Lapwings and a Great Egret.
Nigel and Bec Coghlan 17/3 #222591
Regent Honeyeater
Nangahrah Bird Route
A single Regent Honeyeater was taking a bath at Nangahrah Creek (near creek crossing) and later landed on a casuarina branch and was grooming itself for ages oblivious to other honeyeaters slashing water around (Striped and Fuscous HE). On the farmland near Nangahrah Creek crossing: Hooded Robin (3), Diamond Firetail (12), Double-barred Finch (100+), Brown Songlark (1 male), Spotted Harrier (1). Other birds from this location: Crested Shrike-tit (1), Turquoise Parrot (1), White-bellied Cuckoo-shrike (1 dark morph), Speckled Warbler (4), Little Lorikeet (100+).
Ted Wnorowski 17/3 #222599
Barking Owl, Budgerigar
Borah Travelling Stock Reserve
Evening visit to the site to look for night birds. A small flock of Budgerigars (16) was roosting near the creek. Collared Sparrowhawk was still mobbed by other birds (magpie-larks, honeyeaters but did not move from his hiding. During the early night Southern Boobooks and Australian Owlet Nightjar were calling. Tawny Frogmouth came to investigate insect near my camping lamp. When I was leaving a Barking Owl started to call (woof woof call) from the hills.
Ted Wnorowski 17/3 #222600
Sat 14Rufous Fantail, Sacred Kingfisher.
Meadowbank Park, Sydney.
A rufous fantail was seen flitting around in the tops of the mangrove trees along the Parramatta river this morning and 4 juvenile sacred kingfishers were also feeding on crabs in the mangroves.
michael ronan. 14/3 #222542
Sooty Oystercatchers
Warden Head, Ulladulla
There were 31 Sooties resting on the rock shelf below Warden head. This number is unusually high ,13 to16 are frequently seen on the rocky shelf part of Racecourse beach in the winter but nothing like these numbers have been seen before. Last Friday at Comorong island at Shoalhaven we seen 20 Pied Oystercatchers.
Bob Rusk 14/3 #222546
Black Bittern
Mullet Creek, Warriewood
A Black Bittern was seen hunting on the edge of Mullet Creek upstream from the Warriewood Wetlands.
Elisabeth Karplus and nine people on the Birding NSW outing 14/3 #222547
Plumed Whistling-Duck
Pitt Town Lagoon
Atleast 15 Plumed Whistling-Ducks close together in the centre of a group that included atleast 31 Pink-eared Ducks and also Grey Teal and Masked Lapwing. All were standing in very shallow water to the left of the left hand grouping of pelicans as one observes from the bird hide. Scope required for a good view, as quite distant. eBird checklist
Cameron Ward 14/3 #222555
Red-tailed Tropicbird, White-tailed Tropicbird, White Tern, Buller's Albatrosss
Offshore--Sydney Pelagic
Highlights of an excellent late summer Sydney pelagic were a Red-tailed Tropicbird, two White-tailed Tropicbirds, a White Tern, a Buller's Albatross and an unidentified fregetta storm petrel. Also a Long-tailed Jaeger, five Shy Albatross, an Antipodean (gibsoni) Albatross and three Black-browed Albatross.
Roger McGovern and all on board the MV Explorer 15/3 #222556
Pink-eared Duck, Yellow-billed Spoonbill
Marsden Park
2 Pink-eared Ducks and a Yellow-billed Spoonbill on small dam on west sde of Richmond Road. Sadly this little waterbody looks likely to disappear under the ongoing widening of this road.
Eric Finley 15/3 #222567
Common Tern - red bill and legs - plus Sanderling
Flat Rock Ballina
We dropped in to Flat Rock at Ballina for a break on the way home. There were plenty of terns but one took our interest as it had a red bill with black tip and bright red legs and feet. The bird did not have the expected full black cap (see photo) After advice from others we believe this to be a Common Tern of ssp tibetana or hirundo. Either way being well out of range. There were also three Sanderlings amongst the waders
Peter West and Sue Prouist 16/3 #222580
Turquoise Parrot, Little Eagle, Painted Button-quail
Attunga State Forest (20 km noth of Tamworth)
Two Turquoise Parrots were investigating the hollow in a large Box tree near the archery club shelter, another bird on the track. A single Painted Button-quail feeding near track. Little Eagle flying over my head near the entrance. Very good birding spot. Box gum trees were in full bloom so there were heaps of honeyeaters, mostly Fuscous HE, Noisy and Little Friarbirds but others such us Striped HE (21), Blue-faced HE (1), Black-chinned HE (3) were also there. Other interesting birds: Western Gerygone (1), Hooded Robin (3), C. Cicadabird (1 female), Rainbow Bee-eater (8), Brown Treecreeper (5). When I was leaving the forest Peregrine Falcon just caught a starling, landed on the water tank and was plucking its feathers one by one few meters from the road.
Ted Wnorowski 17/3 #222596
Fri 13Spotted Harrier
Matraville, Bunnerong Road
Seen flying low over allotments next to Shirley Crescent.
David Mitford 13/3 #222533
Arctic Jaeger
Warden Head, Ulladulla
A pale morph Arctic Jaeger in breeding plumage was sighted off the head at app 4.00pm chasing a WT Shearwater until the Shearwater disgorged its food. Really good views of it at app 300- 400 mtrs, the sun showing the vivid white belly and primary patch of the under wing. These have seen regularly down here but not usually with the breeding plumage so clear. The BB and Shy Albatrosses have been seen off the head for the first time this season. Further information
Bob Rusk 14/3 #222545
Eastern Bristlebird
Barren Grounds Nature Reserve
2 Eastern Bristlebirds seen at 3pm about 500 metres up Flying Fox Pass walk. One of them showing very well about 6-7 metres away in the open. White-throated Treecreeper, Beautiful Firetail, White-browed Scrubwren also see at the same location.
Charles Hunter 16/3 #222573
White Tern
Wybong Road, near Castle Rock (17km W of Muswellbrook)
A White Tern was observed flying between trees on Friday morning along a section of Wybong Road, about 3km west of Castle Rock and 17km west of Muswellbrook. The location is about 125km from the coast at its nearest point. The description provided to me is that the person "saw the bird fly erratically through the trees and land on the ground (he did not see it fly around, only straight through the tress to the ground). Then the bird stayed in one spot, put its head down and tried to berry itself in the dirt/leaf litter, it did not attempt to walk away." It was taken into care but unfortunately did not make it through the weekend. There have been a few storms recently but nothing that exceptional I wouldn't have thought. An interesting record and remarkable that the person actually witnessed it fly in.
un-named observer via Tas Willis per Mick Roderick 16/3 #222577
Thu 12Brown Quail
Balls Head Reserve, Waverton
This afternoon at approx 2pm a brown quail ran across Balls Head Rd from the bushland adjacent to the shore to the centre strip where the road divides, before the Coal Loader. It appeared to hide under a large stump near the lower road.
Judy Clark 12/3 #222525
Pacific Baza
Kurrajong Greggs Road
Single bird feeding on Phasmids in the treetops Mobbed by noisy Miners, King Parrots & Butcherbirds eBird checklist
Adrian O'Hara 12/3 #222528
Powerful Owls
Sailors Bay Track, Castlecrag
Adult pair - daytime roost in coachwood near waterfall
David Potter 13/3 #222532
Tue 10Black Kite
Colo Vale
Single bird by the western side of the Hume Highway about 2 km south of Church Ave turn off. The first Black Kite I've seen in the Southern Highlands.
Lorne Johnson 10/3 #222501
Australian Shelduck
Hexham Swamp (Old Pipeline Track)
Male and female Aussie Shelducks present on Hexham Swamp this afternoon, on the east side of the first pond to north of the Shamrock Street T-intersection. Also present, amongst other things, were ~3000 Sharp-tailed Sandpipers (a small group trying to photobomb the attached image after being flushed by a hobby), a few shoveler and half a dozen greenshank.
Mick Roderick 10/3 #222509
Channel-billed Cuckoo
Double Bay (Sydney)
flying around being chased by Noisy Miners at junction of Victoria Road and New South Head road at 6:45pm
Chris Gladwin 10/3 #222511
South Island Pied Oystercatcher
Chowder Bay, Sydney Harbour
Feeding on rock as photographed by Cameron Ward on 9th. Was still present when I left at 6:20pm (low tide was at 5:50pm). Fisherman on same rock did not cause it any concern, (Park at crnr Iluka & Morella Rds and take concrete steps down and then left and walk the formed flat path until sharp left hand bend, take sandy narrow track at this point and walk all way down to "beach")
Chris Gladwin, Murray Lord, Simon Blanchflower 10/3 #222512
Regent Honeyeater
'Highfield' farm, adjacent to Ellerslie Nature Reserve, Mt Adrah NSW 2729
Single regent honeyeater appeared at elevated birdbath near our farmhouse in company with several noisy friarbirds. First sighting of this species in 2.5 years of residence at this property. Bird bathed briefly a couple of times, groomed itself in nearby peach tree for a few minutes then flew off into nearby box-gum woodland.
David Bray 10/3 #222513
Mon 9South Island Pied Oystercatcher
Chowder Head, Sydney Harbour NP
Bird appeared around 4:45pm after a fisherman vacated the rock. Was showing well whilst feeding. It was further observed from 6PM to 6.20PM on the rocks just off a small stretch of sand at Chowder Head. Distant record photo attached (my camera only has a 18-200ml lens) that may help others in finding this exact location. The bird is visible to the right of centre beneath the larger rock formation. Spent at least 15 to 16 minutes within a metre of this location before moving to the top of the smaller rock on the right and facing seaward. eBird checklist
Cameron Ward and Dave Vink 9/3 #222496
Channel-billed Cuckoo
Killara
Sitting outside at 9:50pm and heard the very loud unmistakable sound of a single cuckoo calling as it flew. It was dark, so hard to tell which distance it was flying (I'm assuming North).
David Vickers 9/3 #222497
South Island Pied Oystercatcher
Balmoral Beach
The SIPO seen enjoying the delights of the northern end of Balmoral Beach this afternoon at about 3.00pm. Soon after it flew off southwards along the beach.
Sylvia Griffin 9/3 #222499
Sooty Oystercatcher
Dolphin point, Ulladulla
6 birds seen feeding around the rocks around midday, still present at 6pm. One has been leg banded but to distant to make out any markings.
Johan Olsson 10/3 #222503
Sun 8Brown Honeyeater
Condobolin
Very surprised to hear a Brown HE calling from my back yard at 9 am this morning. On further investigation there were two birds feeding in a flowering gum along with Silvereyes and Yellow Thornbills. Only my second record of this species in Condo
Warren Chad 8/3 #222460
South Island Pied Oystercatcher
Chowder Bay, Sydney Harbour NP
Present this afternoon at 330-430 pm although absent on Saturday at the same time. Tame, some kayakers getting within a few metres of the feeding bird.
Dion Hobcroft 8/3 #222472
Channel-billed Cuckoo
Bellevue Hill - Bondi 1' Cell
a single, silent bird flying over Victoria Road. This is a very late bird, most have already left NSW (Moderator).
Marie Lister 8/3 #222473
Buller's Albatross, Indian Yellow-nosed Albatross, Streaked Shearwater.
Sydney Harbour National Park--North Head
Another good day for seabirds off north head with 10 to 15 early season Buller's Albatross, also my first Indian Yellow-nosed Albatross for the year and 2 Streaked Shearwaters.
michael ronan. 8/3 #222474
White-winged Chough
Parklea
Saw 6 birds flying over Sentry Drive and into the grounds of the Parklea prison. First time I have seen them in that area and the closest I have seen them to the coast in Sydney
Edwin Vella 8/3 #222475
South Island Pied Oystercatcher
Chowder Head
Saw the bird at same place this afternoon at about 1630 just after Dion Hobcroft but after ten minutes or so of foraging on the rocks it was spooked by a passing Cormorant and flew westwards and out of sight along the shoreline heading towards the Zoo.
Edwin Vella 8/3 #222477
Black Kite
Streeton Lookout, North Richmond
Black Kite flying SE over Terrace Rd/ Gormley St/ Cliff Rd adjacent to the Lookout, heading toward river and Cornwallis. Mobbed by Ravens. 6.30pm. Last seen hereabouts July 2014
Mike Felstead 9/3 #222494
Sat 7Apostlebirds, Azure Kingfisher, White-winged Choughs
Nurragingy Reserve
A pair of Apostlebirds seen, and single juvenile Azure Kingfisher at the reserve today at about 10am near the lake. Also 2 Rainbow Lorikeets and a family of about 5 Choughs.
Stephen and Antonella Gilmour 7/3 #222451
Buller's Albatross, Streaked Shearwater, Shy & Black-browed Albatross.
Long Reef Aquatic Reserve
Good afternoons birdwatching off long reef this afternoon with good numbers of albatross including 3 Buller's albatross,10+ shy albatross, 8 black browed albatross and 6 streaked shearwaters.
michael ronan 7/3 #222457
Little Penguin, Hutton's Shearwater
Boat Harbour, Kurnell
Observed a Little Penguin chasing schools of small fish - in knee deep water - on the tide covered rock shelf for close to an hour. It became stranded by the receding tide. Fortunately the few dog owners obliged when asked to leash their dogs once they realised the penguin was present (According to the signs dogs are forbidden on the shelf, but hey). I ended up herding the bird back into a channel which it was able to safely follow back to open water. The other interesting bird was a lone Hutton's Shearwater in amongst the Silver Gulls. Kelp Gull, Red-capped Plover, Reef Heron etc. present. Excuse the poor quality phone/scoped photos. eBird checklist
Greg McLachlan 9/3 #222493
Fri 6Beautiful Firetail
Royal National Park--Wattamolla
A very quite day in the Royal National Park. Two Beautiful Firetails seen at the point where the path from the car park splits.
Marie Lister and Giuilia Masoero 6/3 #222446
South Island Pied Oystercatcher
Chowder Bay
Seen again today at 5.45pm on the off-shore rock. Later time of observation suggests that movements to this location (from Shark Island) are tide related.
Bob Way, Steve Mannix 6/3 #222448
Thu 5Eastern Osprey
Willinga Lake, Bawley Point
Single juvenile bird, calling while perched.
Margaret Hamon 5/3 #222424
Glossy Black-Cockatoo
Eulah Creek
On 5 January 2015 I reported a group of 5 Glossy Black-Cockatoos flying over Eulah Creek (#221618). Earlier in the season (12 December 2014) I did not report a fly-over at Upper Bullawa Creek, 5 km from here. Then on 5 February 2015 there were another 3 Glossy Black-Cockatoos flying over and today another 2 (no photo). I report this in the context of this being the driest summer in the Pilliga scrub in a long time and today's birds preceded smoke coming from bushfires in the Pilliga scrub (3 fires burning right now). Prior to December 2014 I had only ONCE (in 8 years) seen a Glossy Black-Cockatoo fly over Eulah Creek - ca. 40 km NE of the Pilliga scrub (now 11, in 4 separate events, within 3 months). Although small numbers, this may indicate that the Glossy Black-Cockatoo population in the Pilliga scrub is unsettled (note also increased human activity in the Pilliga over the last few years in regards to CSG exploration). Further information
Michael Dahlem 5/3 #222426
South Island Pied Oystercatcher
Chowder Head
3.30 pm. Feeding on rocks just offshore at low tide. Great close view. Access from path at junction Iluka and Morella St. Turn left at main Chowder Bay Track. After 60 m take unformed path on right down to shoreline. Also observed at 5:00pm by David Stowe and Jayden Walsh.
Carl Weber, David Stowe, Jayden Walsh 5/3 #222432
South Island Pied Oystercatcher
Shark Island, Sydney Harbour
As previously reported, the bird was not visible at first but then found emerging from large rocks near ferry wharf (see photo), SE end of Island. It stayed mostly hidden roosting with Silver Gulls until it sat up and started preening. About half an hour later it flew down to the sand and rocks next to where roosting and began feeding on Oysters. Good views and 3 other birders also were there taking photos. The bird stayed in the same location until we left on the 12:30pm ferry. Very windy day. eBird checklist
Carla Jackett, Lorand Szucs, etc 6/3 #222435
Raibow Bee-eater, Common Cicadabird, Pacific Baza
Nurragingy Reserve
Autumn migrants started to appear in the reserve and also along the Eastern Creek north of Power St. Heaps of Silvereys and Yellow-faced Honeyeater also Dusky Woodswallow (10), Rainbow Bee-eater (2), Common Cicadabird (male - 1), Dollarbird (2). In the reserve also Pacific Baza (still present, feeding on stick insects), Mistletoebirds (heaps), Satin Bowerbird (2 juv or female).
Ted Wnorowski 6/3 #222438
Long-tailed Jaeger and Shy Albatross
Mistral Point, Maroubra
At least 5 Shy Albatross and 5 Long-tailed Jaegers this evening. 25+ Pomarine Jaegers & a Black-browed Albatross also seen.
David Mitford 8/3 #222469
Grey Goswawk, White-Bellied Sea-Eagle
Streetons Lookout, North Richmond
Grey Goshawk seen from the Lookout, above paddocks adjacent to Terrace Rd 5.30 pm, appeared to be pursuing a Magpie, mobbed by 3 other Magpies, then gave up pursuit. Seen shortly afterwards quartering downstream along the Terrace. Also a White-Bellied Sea-Eagle – quartering slowly downstream at tree canopy height along the Terrace 5.15pm, later seen flying upstream above river at low height. Seen regularly here.
Mike Felstead 9/3 #222495
Wed 4Grey Goshawk, white morph
Lyn Gordon Reserve, Thirlmere NSW
Perched on Branch of Eucalyptus then gliding to another tree with an expansive wing span. Magnificent, breath taking!!!!!!
Sophie Stringer 4/3 #222413
Square-tailed Kite
Riverside Park, Riverside Rd, Chipping Norton
Juvenile Square-tailed Kite quartering and circling about 9 am was my first record for Riverside Park. Male Satin Bowerbird was my 3rd record for the park. Male Grey Goshawk. Female Crested Shrike-tit
David James 4/3 #222415
Common Noddy
Tacking Point Lighthouse, Port Macquarie
2 Common Noddy foraging in surf line along rocks below the Lighthouse. Birds last seen heading north close in to shore. A single Common Noddy was seen in mid February at this same location and stayed around for a few days. eBird Checklist S21976956 refers to that bird.
Clive Meadows 4/3 #222416
South Island Pied Oystercatcher
Shark Island
was seen at island from about 11 am to 12:10 pm when it took off and headed towards the north side of the harbour.
Elisabeth Karplus, Martyn Moffat, Noel Luff 4/3 #222418
South Island Pied Oystercatcher
Sydney Harbour - Chowder Bay
South Island Pied Oystercatcher seen this afternoon at the previously reported spot at Chowder Bay.
Robert Hynson 4/3 #222421
Eastern Osprey
Tallawarra Foreshore, Lake Illawarra
1 Osprey flying north over the lake near the boat ramp carpark
Michael Crosland 4/3 #222422
Tue 3White-bellied Cuckooshrike - dark morph
Yellomundee Regioanl Park
Single bird observed taking insects from foliage of casuarina and acacia near old homestead site.
Mark Ley 3/3 #222404
Pacific Baza
Lawrence - private property
Reported on behalf of Bill Shillam. At least 12 birds were noted today feeding in the tops of eucalypts on the property. This species is not uncommon at this site and has bred in the past. The numbers were surprising. However it should be noted that 14 birds were also seen on the 7th February at the same site
Peter West 3/3 #222408
Glossy Black Cockatoo
Taronga Western Plains Zoo, Dubbo
A flock of 8-10 Glossy Black Cockatoo's did a fly over of the zoo. They were seen by a number of keepers, many commenting that this is the first time they have seen them in the zoo.
Andrew O'Brien 3/3 #222409
Streaked Shearwater, Shy-type Albatross
Pelagic off Port Stephens (BirdLife Photography Group outing)
2x Streaked Shearwaters were the highlights of another low-diversity day at sea for the BirdLife Australia Photography Group (11 spp. outside the heads). 2x Shy-type Albatrosses were also seen. Conditions were glassy for most of the day and activity was generally low. For the 3rd consecutive PS trip (totalling nearly 9 hours wide of the shelf break) no storm-petrels were seen. It was also the first PS trip with no cetaceans of any sort seen, but it was still an enjoyable day at sea!
Mick Roderick and 13 others aboard the M.V. Argonaut 4/3 #222410
South Island Pied Oystercatcher
Sydney Harbour
Update: Bird has been splitting time evenly between Shark Island and Chowder Bay at -33.843928,151.254304. Can be seen from the Captain Cook Loop Ferry on passing the above site, and the tour guide on board has allowed birders to re-direct the ferry briefly to get in closer to shore in order to see the bird. Note that if flushed, the bird almost always flies straight across the harbour to the secondary site, so please be considerate both in regards to the bird's welfare and other birders.
Max Breckenrdige, David Stowe, Simon Gorta, etc. per. Facebook 4/3 #222412
Autumn migrants, Freckled Duck
Wurrungwuri Reserve, Moorebank
Influxes of Rufous Whistler, Golden Whistler, Rufous Fantail, Grey Fantail seem to indicate some Autumn movements. Not sure if White-eared Honeyeaters are Autumn migrants or just dispersed from nearby Voyager Point Bushland. Single male Freckled Duck still at stormwater pond at edge of reserve on Brickmakers Road.
David James 4/3 #222414
Lewin's Rail, Bassian Thrush, Black-faced Monarch
Warriewood Wetlands
A short visit to the wetlands in the early morning. Three Lewin's Rails (adult and 2 large juvs) came out of sedges near Katoa Close entrance. I got an excellent view of them. Nearby 2 Bassian Thrushes and near shopping centre one Black-faced Monarch in swamp oak trees.
Ted Wnorowski 4/3 #222417
Mon 2South Island Pied Oystercatcher
Shark Island, Sydney Harbour National Park
Bird relocated today at 11:15 feeding on the NW corner of the island. Appears to be slowly moving counterclockwise feeding along the shoreline. Still present from midday next to the jetty. Numerous photos obtained, will write up a BARC submission soon. Ferry access through Captain Cook Cruises, $20 return departing Circular Quay 10:30, 12:05, 1:30, 2:15.
Joshua Bergmark, Nathan Ruser, Henry Coleman, Carol Abbott, Peter Abbott 2/3 #222396
Sun 1Spotless Crake
Pitt Town Lagoon
3 Spotless Crakes were the birds of the morning at Pitt Town Lagoon this morning also still good numbers of Pink-eared Ducks there too.
michael ronan 1/3 #222390
Topknot Pigeon, Gang Gang
Bellawongarah - Berry Mountain
Approximately 150 Topknots flew very fast across my house yard at 4:40pm. Very strong winds and stormy weather this afternoon. Yesterday we had 9 Gang Gangs here, with some identified as 2 adult males, 1 adult female, 2 immature males (some red on head/crest), and 1 immature female were identified. Not uncommon here generally but don't often see them in these numbers.
Carla Jackett 1/3 #222392
South Island Pied Oystercatcher
Shark Island (North), Sydney Harbour
Single bird around lunchtime on the northern side of the island, identified through Facebook.
Biggles Csolander per. Joshua Bergmark 1/3 #222393
Eastern Osprey, Rufous Fantail
Deepwater Park, Milperra
Adult female Eastern Osprey at the ponds on Maxewell Ave about 10:00 am. A Rufous Fantail was my first of the Autumn migration.
David James 2/3 #222395
Masked Woodswallow
Pambalong Nature Reserve - Hexham Floodplain West
Five observers viewed eight birds flying west prior to strong storm activity over Pambelong causeway road. Grey Goshawk also made a flyby appearance.
Allan Richardson 2/3 #222398
February 2015
Sat 28Whimbrel
Deeban Spit, Port Hacking
All the summer migratory birds have left, except for this one Whimbrel.
Julie Keating 28/2 #222368
Pacific Swift, Peaceful Dove
Bundanoon
A single Pacific Swift in a loose flock of 15 White-throated Needletails (high over the sewage works) and a Peaceful Dove (at Bundanoon Oval) bring my town tally to 178 species. The first time I've seen a Pacific Swift in NSW. My second record of a Peaceful Dove in the Southern Highlands.
Lorne Johnson 28/2 #222371
Black-tailed Godwit, Marsh Sandpiper, Greenshank, Osprey, Avocets
Wagtail Way, Ash Island Ponds
CC Group, Birding NSW had an outing to Ash Island and between 1040-1140 am saw about 1500 Red-necked Avocets and 1000 Black-winged Stills, along with about 40 Black-tailed Godwits, 60+ Bar-tailed Godwits, 10+ Greenshanks, 40+ Marsh Sandpiper, breeding White-fronted Chats, an Osprey, a Sea-Eagle, Black-shouldered Kite, and nearby Brown Falcon, Whistling Kite and a Little Eagle, as well as the usual ducks and cormorants and Mangrove Gerygones..
Alan Morris & 23 members of Birding NSW 28/2 #222381
Brown Noddy
Nobby's Rock Platform (Newcastle)
Single Brown Noddy working the wash between Groper Rock and Newcastle Baths this afternoon. I only saw the bird flying (hence distant cropped image), but apparently it was loafing on the rocks with the Crested/Little Terns from about 4:15pm onwards. Also ~40 Sooty Oystercatchers on the rocks (max count this year here has been 50 birds).
Mick Roderick 28/2 #222384
Terek Sandpiper, Black-tailed Godwit, Pacific Golden Plover
Stockton Sand Spit
The tides were not right for a view of the Migratory waders today being high tide at 5.40 am and 6.40 pm, however because of the high river there was not much drop in the tide so that while there were virtually no Eastern Curlews or Bar-tailed Godwits, there were 435 Pacific Golden Plover, with about 300-400 Curlew Sandpipers and 300+Sharp-tailed Sandpipers roosting on the shell banks and hard to count. Also there were 4 Terek Sandpipers , 2-3 Double-banded Plovers, a few Whimbrel & Black-tailed Godwits, and Red-necked Stints. No terns or Avocets.
Alan Morris & 23 members of CCGBNSW 28/2 #222385
Sharp-tailed Sandpiper, Hobby, Sea-Eagles & Swamp Harrier
Hexham Swamp Nature Reserve
Our group finished the day 3-4pm down at the Hexham Swamp Nature Reserve and were treated to some great massed flights of Sharp-tailed Sandpipers of 3000-4000 birds that coursed and swoop over the reedbeds and marshes. It was a great sight also there were 2 Swamp Harriers, a Little Eagle, 2 Hobbies and 2 Sea-Eagles present. There were also a few Marsh Sandpipers and Greenshanks and a Buff-banded Rail.
Alan Morris & 23 members of CCGBNSW 28/2 #222386
Fri 27Black Bittern, Grey Goshawk
Deepwater Park, Milperra
Female Black Bittern flushed from side of 2nd pond and disappeared in mangroves. Male Grey Goshawk seen 2 days in a row. Adult White-bellied Sea-eagle carrying a fish over the river.
David James 27/2 #222363
Thu 26Rufous Fantail
Centennial Park
A Rufous Fantail was in the enclosed Eastern Suburbs Banksia Scrub remnant on York Road, adjacent to Moriah College.
Graeme Robinson 26/2 #222356
Black Bittern, Square-tailed Kite
Cattai National Park--Mitchell Park
Single kite flying low over the trees near park entrance. Also a Black Bittern at the first little crk/ cattai crk junction.
Mike Rutkowski 26/2 #222358
Bush Stone-curlew
Karuah Big 4 Caravan Park
Heard calling at 3 am from mangrove / saltmarsh area.
Paul Shelley 26/2 #222359
Black Petrel, Buller's Shearwater, Antipodean Albatross
Pelagic off Port Stephens (BirdLife Photography Group outing)
A single Black Petrel and 2 Buller's Shearwaters were the highlights of a BirdLife Australia Photography Group pelagic organised by the Hunter Bird Observers Club today off Port Stephens. Also of note was an adult Antipodean Albatross (Gibson's) and 2 individual adult Shy-type Albatrosses. There were also 2 'getaway' sightings; one a likely 'Cookilaria', the other almost certainly a Long-tailed Jaeger. For the 2nd Port Stephens pelagic running, there were no storm-petrels seen.
Mick Roderick and 13 others aboard the MV Argonaut 26/2 #222360
White-rumped Sandpiper
Lake Wollumboola
The sandpiper is still at the location which has been widely reported associating with Red-capped Plovers and Red-necked Stints. It happily stayed around for the two hours I was there.
Bernie OKeefe 26/2 #222362
Magpie Goose
STP Ponds, Lake Road, Port Macquarie
A pair of Magpie Geese have been present at the Port Macquarie STP ponds since 10 February 2015. It is understood that Council has now identified that they have a nest with eggs.
Tim Morris 27/2 #222367
Wed 25Freckled Duck
Moorebank
A male Freckled Duck on a cruddy stormwater detention basin along Brickmakers Rd opposite the Georges Fair housing development
David James 25/2 #222348
Mottled Petrel
Booderee National Park - Bherwerre Beach
One found beachwashed. Attached is a poor quality image from my phone but visible are the diagnostic combination of characters: white throat, white undertail, grey belly patch; white underwing with prominent black diagonal bar. Also along the beach were 100+ low flying White-throated Needletails hawking insects just above the sand or adjacent dunes.
Martin Schulz 26/2 #222355
possible Kamchatka Leaf (Phylloscopus) Warbler
Werri Beach, Gerringong
Received an email forwarded from a British birder who reported a Kamchatka Warbler at the above site. The information provided reads: "Had it calling and sounded spot on the recording. The bird was in the scrub/small trees north of fish and chip shop". This sighting is being posted in the hope that someone can follow it up. Any Phylloscopus Warbler in that location would be a mega.
Ashwin Rudder for Kester (surname not given) 26/2 #222361
Red-backed Fairy-wren
Private property Booral
Small family group mixed with Superb Fairy-wrens. This is by far my most southern observation of this species.
Paul Shelley 27/2 #222365
Tue 24Crimson Rosella
Eulah Creek
A single Crimson Rosella appeared at our place today, together with a family of Eastern Rosellas. This is my first sighting ever (in 8 years) outside the contiguous bushland of the ranges, in open (sheep and cattle) farmland with scattered trees. Further information
Michael Dahlem 24/2 #222338
Wompoo Fruit-dove, Glossy Black Cockatoo, Little Lorikeet
Tallawudjah Creek, Glenreagh
In the first bit of sunshine on the property for almost a week, a fly-over from a pod of 5 Glossies heading out to forage. Soft close contact calls between 3 Wompoo's with short flights to sunbathing perches before heading off deeper into the forest to hit the rainforest fruit bounty available at the moment. Overhead small flocks of Little Lorikeets about although there have been varying numbers around since beginning of spring. That's it for the sun, rain has set in again.
Pete Knock 24/2 #222339
Streaked Shearwater and Long-tailed Jaeger
Mistral Point, Maroubra
A feeding pod of False Killer Whales produced an entourage of birds, including 3 Streaked Shearwaters. Earlier, uncharacteristicly close, 3 Long-tailed Jaegers were also seen.
David Mitford 24/2 #222346
Mon 23White-rumped Sandpiper
Lake Wollumboola
WRSP still present this morning. Resting in sand furrows, with many Red-necked Stints and Red-capped Plovers, and a single Double-banded Plover.
Jon Spicer-Bell 23/2 #222331
Spotless Crake
Putta Bucca Wetlands, Mudgee
Not previously recorded at this sight. Not sure if it's unusual though. Seen near reeds on edge of mudflats closest to car park.
Marl Leary 23/2 #222335
Common Noddy
Pelican Pt Norah Head
A single Common Noddy was photographed on the rocks at Pelican Point, c. 3 km south of Norah Head. This is the first confirmed record for the Central Coast, becoming the 379 th species reported for this Region since 1900!
Andrew Robinson per Alan Morris 1/3 #222389
Sun 22White-winged Chough
Bowral
5 birds by the side of Oxleys Hill Rd. I've not seen WWCs this close to the centre of Bowral before.
Lorne Johnson 22/2 #222319
Plumed Whistling-Duck
Richmond Lowlands
Stopped by ponds on Triangle Lane on my way back to Sydney. 8 Plumed Whistling-Duck present. There may be more as I didn't hang around to see if more were present. eBird checklist
Greg McLachlan 22/2 #222323
Streaked Shearwater
Sydney Harbour National Park--North Head
2 Streaked Shearwaters were seen off North Head this afternoon one flying south and one flying north with flocks of Wedge-tailed Shearwaters.
michael ronan. 22/2 #222325
Gang-gang Cockatoo (10)
Kulnura
I stopped to check a stand of Liquid Ambers for Gang-gangs at the corner of Springs Rd and George Downes Dr Kulnura just in time to watch a flock of 10 fly in from nearby Eucalypts. Largest flock I have seen on the Central Coast. 3 were adult males.
Nick Carson 22/2 #222328
Sat 21Little Eagle
Streeton Lookout, Freemans Reach
Little Eagle dark morph soaring above Cornwallis Rd flying east, then flying west directly above river from Cornwallis to North Richmond at 40-50m height adjacent to the terrace, flew NW over the terrace near Wire Lane. 5.15-5.30pm
Mike Felstead 21/2 #222307
Glossy Black-Cockatoo
Wairo Beach near Ulladulla
A pair feeding in a casuarina tree.
Kay Stuart 22/2 #222324
Fri 20Brown Quail
Sydney Olympic Park--Waterbird Refuge
A small covey of Brown Quail (saw 1, reckon 6 based on locations of calls) in the long grass/scrub just to the right when looking out of the hide. There was a single sandpiper seen working in and out of the the samphire to the right of the hide, initially thuoght to be a Pectoral, but subsequently proven to be a strange Sharpie.
Tom Wilson 20/2 #222297
Little Penguin
Clarke Point
10.20am a pair of Little penguins were swimming close to the rock retaining wall at Clarke Point.
Adrian Dick 20/2 #222298
Blue-billed Duck
Lithgow Wastewater Treatment Plant
At least 6 Blue-billed Ducks in the second pond. Also present Freckled Ducks, Australasian Shovelers, Pink-eared Ducks. Thks to Bob Sinclair for telling they were there.
Mike Rutkowski 20/2 #222304
Grey-tailed Tattler
Shoalhaven Heads
Grey-tailed Tattler found roosting amongst the PG Plovers between the beach & the estuary. Good numbers of Bar-tailed Godwits, PG Plovers, RN Stints & Eastern Curlews present. 10 or so D'banded Plovers also there. eBird checklist
Paul Lynch 23/2 #222333
Thu 19Pacific Baza
The Ponds Creek Reserve, Dundas valley
Yesterday and this morning I saw 3 Pacific Baza. 2 adults and one juvenile.
Corinne Carpentier 19/2 #222290
Black Bittern
Warriewood Wetlands
5.50 PM. Seen when crossing the bridge on Jacksons Rd. About 7 metres away on the south-east side, perfectly still but well camouflaged on a dead branch barely above the water. A "very brown bird" but the yellow patch down the side of the neck and yellow eye were distinct. Possibly the same bird reported by Jayden early in the month? eBird checklist
Cameron Ward 19/2 #222295
Wed 18Pacific Baza
Nurragingy Reserve
2 birds seen in the treetops right outside the Colebee Center feeding on grasshoppers, both likely juveniles. Constantly harassed by Noisy Miners but stayed for the whole hour I was at the reserve.
Johan Olsson 18/2 #222283
Peregrine Falcon (Northern)
Barren Box Storage, Griffith
Whilst visiting Barren Box storage this morning, Keith Hutton and David Webb came across another Northern Peregrine Falcon, possibly an adult male calidus. Views were not great and unfortunately they had no camera but will try to borrow a camera and go back for some pics. [Moderator's Note: F. p. calidus breeds in the Arctic tundra of Eurasia, travelling south in winter as far as South Asia and sub-Saharan Africa. This follows a sighting from 2010 by the same observers (at the same time of year at the same site), reported on Birding Aus last year as follows. JB] Further information
Keith Hutton and David Webb per. Mike Carter 18/2 #222287
White-rumped Sandpiper
Lake Wollumboola
White-rumped Sandpiper still showing.
Tim Dolby 18/2 #222289
Tue 17Sooty Tern
Sawtell Headland
Fresh remains of a dead bird on the headland this morning.
Peter Higgins & Michael Cheers 17/2 #222266
Square-tailed Kite, Pink-eared Duck, Nankeen Night-Heron
Deepwater Park, Milperra
Excellent views of an adult Square-tailed Kite soaring over the Maxwell Ave section of Deepwater this morning. My first sighting of this species locally and 17th raptor species I've seen along the Georges River in Milperra. 6 Pink-eared Ducks on the pond at Kelso Park North (my 2nd local record). Nankeen Night-Heron and Striated Heron on the island in the 1st pond on Maxwell Ave. Peregrine Falcon and Collared Sparrowhawk too.
David James 17/2 #222269
Square-tailed Kite
St Clair
One bird circling low over the reserve next to the Mark Leece Sporting complex, second sighting in less than a month.
Johan Olsson 17/2 #222276
Mon 16Topknot Pigeon, Australian Shoveler, Pink-eared Duck
Sydney Olympic Park and Mason Park
Flock of 12 or so Topknot flew low and slowly over the WQCP near Wentworth Common. Atleast two shoveler at the Waterbird Refuge along with good numbers of Red-necked Avocet and Black-fronted Dotterel. The single Pink-eared Duck remains at Mason Park along with 40 or so Sharp-tailed Sandpiper and a Little Egret.
Max Breckenridge and Ross Crates 16/2 #222255
Pacific Golden Plover
Mason Park, Homebush
1 lonely Pacific Golden Plover about 0630 this morning
Derek Willcox 16/2 #222257
Spotted Quail-thrush
Bucketty Camp Site
4 birds in long grass near to the car park.
John Swanson 16/2 #222263
Dusky Woodswallow, Grey Goshawk, Little Lorikeet
Riverside Park, Riverside Rd, Chipping Norton
About 10 Dusky Woodswallows present at Riverside Park for the first time since September. Last year they were present from mid March to late Sept., and I expect they will winter here again. Also present was a female Grey Goshawk, and a single pair of Little Lorikeets amongst numerous Rainbow and Scaly-breasted Lorikeets and several Musk Lorikeets.
David James 17/2 #222268
White-rumped Sandpiper
Lake Wollumboola
The White-rumped Sandpiper was still there roosting on the sand between the lake and the beach, with Red-capped Plovers.
Graeme Robinson 17/2 #222274
Sun 15Lewin's Rail
Warriewood Wetlands
Lewis Rail heard calling and seen moving in very deep cover in an area near the Katoa Close entrance. Also a single Lathams Snipe and Great Egret seen at water treatment ponds in housing estate and 4 Rufous Fantail in Irrawong Reserve. No sign of the Black Bittern this morning.
Tom Wilson 15/2 #222246
Double-banded Plover (5)
Shoalhaven Heads--Inlet
5 Double-banded Plover feeding on mudflats with some Red-capped Plover. Also present were 150 Bar-tailed Godwit, 40 Red-necked Stint, 12 Eastern Curlew, 1 Grey-tailed Tattler with about 45 Pacific Golden Plover on mudflats, 2 White-fronted Chat. Fine warm morning, light breeze, arrived 2 hours after high tide. eBird checklist
Carla Jackett, Barry Virtue 15/2 #222248
Sat 14Glossy Black-Cockatoo
Wakehurst Parkway, Narrabeen
Pair preening each other in Gum tree overlooking the Narrabeen Athletics Track during major athletics carnival. They were not distracted by all the noise and people. About 7 mtrs up the tree, stayed for 15 minutes, then flew towards bush, with Oak trees nearby.
Craig Little 14/2 #222235
Streaked Shearwater
Long Reef Aquatic Reserve
1 Streaked Shearwater off Long Reef this afternoon in with large numbers of Wedge-tailed Shearwaters.
michael ronan 14/2 #222239
Red-tailed Tropicbird, Sooty Tern
Offshore--Sydney Pelagic
Highlight of a good summer pelagic trip was an adult Red-tailed Tropicbird well seen by all on the boat. Also seen were a Sooty Tern, a beautiful old Wandering Albatross (D. exulans), three Long-tailed Jaegers and an unexpected immature Black-browed Albatross. In the 25.5degC water, many large groups (up to 50 at a time) of flying fish were seen coming out of the water. (Photograph courtesy of Stephen Hey)
Roger McGovern and all on the Sydney Pelagic 15/2 #222245
Fri 13Black -faced Monarch
Mascot
A juvenile Black-faced Monarch flew into a window at the Graphic Arts Club, Mascot. Seemed uninjured, and quickly recovered, and took shelter in shrubs at the rear of the car park. Noisy Miners were active in the area.
Graeme Robinson 13/2 #222221
Black-browed Albatross, Flesh-footed Shearwaters.
Offshore Sydney
While working offshore of Sydney (~5-10km offshore) I observed large numbers of Flesh-footed and Wedge-tailed Shearwaters. Largest count of Flesh-footed Shearwaters was 26 attending the boat. Around 3-4 Jaeger sp. followed the boat over the course of the day, and after midday a solitary young Black-browed Albatross flew in and attended the boat. Other species seen was a single Australasian Gannet and a distant Fluttering-type Shearwater.
Jon Spicer-Bell 15/2 #222244
Australasian Shoveler
Sydney Olympic Park--Waterbird Refuge
3 Australasian Shoveler still associating with the Grey Teal at the Waterbird Refuge. eBird checklist
Jenny Stiles 15/2 #222251
Straw-necked Ibis, Australian White Ibis, Eastern Great Egret, Intermediate Egret, Cattle Egret,
Lawrence Egret Colony Swamp
4+ Straw-necked Ibis nests with adults sitting, 5+ White Ibis nests some with large nestlings, 20+ Eastern Great Egret nests, some with small nestlings, 1 fledged young, 5+ nests of Intermediate Egrets, hundreds of nests of Cattle Egrets, mostly with nestlings. This is only about the third nesting of Straw-necked Ibis at this site and these records are the only breeding records of the species east of the Great Dividing Range in NSW. 14+ Pink-eared Ducks also present on swamp.
Greg Clancy 15/2 #222254
Thu 12Grey Plover and White-rumped Sandpiper
Lake Wollumboola
Both birds showing well. The WRS was on the sand dune on its own, sheltering from the southerly wind. The Grey Plover, also solitary and easily identified, amongst the mossy area on the edge of the lake.
Ann Millard 12/2 #222209
Little Eagle, Grey Goshawk
Coutts Crossing Village
Pale morph Little Eagle soaring low over village, attacked by 4 Australian Magpies. Grey Goshawk still present.
Greg Clancy 12/2 #222213
Red-tailed Tropicbird
Sydney Harbour National Park--North Head
A Red-tailed Tropicbird was seen off North Head this afternoon flying north in close.
michael ronan 12/2 #222214
"Green-headed" Eastern Yellow Wagtail
Chindera STW
Observed on the 8th of January, and not seen since. Access is restricted. A second wagtail was also present, but not photographed.
Rob Mackenzie & 12 others, mostly Birdlife N Rivers local club members) 12/2 #222215
Wed 11Square-tailed Kite
Pacific Hwy, Wahroonga
Single bird seen flying along the highway.
Grant Brosie and Robert Kilkelky 11/2 #222199
Australian Little Bittern
Tallawarra Ash Pond 3, Yallah
Flew past and entered into the reeds near us. Excellent view. Also 30+ Pink-eared Ducks, Freckled Ducks and Blue-billed Ducks with young. [Moderator - this location is private property and is currently the site of a proposed development. Any birders interested in pursuing this bird are encouraged to contact the local council, where expressing concerns that such valuable habitat could be destroyed would no doubt not go unnoticed - AR] eBird checklist
David and Michelle Rower 11/2 #222200
Sooty Owl
Mount Kembla
One bird seen along the fire track at night.
Terrill Nordstrom 11/2 #222206
Tue 10White-winged Chough
Corner of Rememberance Drive and Cawdor Rd, Camen Pk
Group of at least 5 birds flew across Remembrance Dr this morning. Never seen this species in this area before.
Mike Miller 10/2 #222186
Pink-eared Duck, Latham's Snipe, Southern Boobook,
Mason's Park, Sydney
A fairly quick walk around the wetland was very productive around midday today. A single Pink-eared Duck was seen in the company of some teal, the Snipe was flushed while walking among the casuarinas on the western side of the wetland, and some 'alarming' Noisy Miners alerted me to the Boobok at the southern end. Other birds of interest were Little Egret, Royal Spoonbill, and a couple of Sharp-tailed Sandpipers.
Paul Johnstone 10/2 #222187
Grey Plover, White-rumped Sandpiper
Lake Wollumboola
The Grey Plover was present again today at around 10.30am. The White-rumped Sandpiper was also present. A Double-banded Plovers was seen as well. The Stint with the Orange Flag was also present.
Carol Abbott 10/2 #222191
Square-tailed Kite
John St, Belmont North
Circling lazily and low over suburban back yards in the street. Been sighting this bird for several months now.
Bill Boyd 12/2 #222211
Mon 9Grey Plover, White-rumped Sandpiper
Lake Wollumboola
A single Grey Plover seen at the lake around midday after being reported by others yesterday afternoon and this morning. White-rumped Sandpiper still present, also 4 White-winged Terns seen associating with the Little Tern flock.
Lachlan Hall 9/2 #222181
Sun 8Pacific Baza
Frogs Hollow, NSW (15km south of Bega)
Seen in flight and heard calling above remnant forest 10am. [Moderator's Note: Bega is very far south for this species, however despite a lack of atlas records, apparently a pair or two have been present since 2008 in this area, and are seen regularly by the Far South Coast Birdwatchers. JB]
David Faulkner 8/2 #222160
White-rumped Sandpiper
Lake Wollumboola
Still there looking pretty!
Lorand Szucs 8/2 #222170
Double-banded Plover
Shoalhaven Heads
A single DBP observed at Shoalhaven Heads this afternoon. Other highlights were 14 Pied Oystercatchers and 2 White-fronted Chats. eBird checklist
Martin & Penny Potter 8/2 #222172
Oriental Pratincole
Norfolk Island Airfield
Three Oriental Pratincoles were seen on the southern end of the older runway amongst about 400 Pacific Golden Plovers. The large white rump area initially got our attention and the plainer olive-brown of the wings and back differentiated them from the PGPs. The chestnut underwing helped make the positive identification. They were seen the following day as well and reported to local birders.
Brian & Meg Johnson 11/2 #222201
Sat 7Streaked Shearwater, Shy Albatross.
Long Reef Aquatic Reserve. Dee Why
A Streaked Shearwater and a Shy Albatross were the highlights from Long Reef this afternoon.
michael ronan 7/2 #222156
Spotted Quail-thrush, Common Bronzewing
Mogo Camp, Yengo NP, Settlers Rd Bucketty
Within the Camp Ground a pair with two large dependent young were feeding in the grass, another pair were on the road leading into the camp; two others were flushed from Settlers Rd between the Camp and Bucketty, 8 within an hour is not bad! The Common Bronzewing was on the road, and Yellow-tufted Honeyeaters were seen at a number of places.
Alan Morrius and John Weigel 8/2 #222159
Fri 6Pallid Cuckoo, Red-browed Treecreeper, Gang-gang (4), Wonga Pigeon (2)
Bucketty 10' Cell
Cuckoo and Juvenile Red-browed Treecreeper seen at intersection of George Downs Drive and Settlers Rd. Gang-Gang and Wonga Pigeon at the Waterhole.
Allan Benson 6/2 #222138
Thu 5White-rumped Sandpiper
Lake Wollumboola
Still present (thankfully), feeding on lake shore in usual spot.
Joshua Bergmark, Max Breckenridge, Lachlan Hall, Ashwin Rudder 5/2 #222116
Eastern Ground Parrot, Crescent Honeyeater
Barren Grounds Nature Reserve
A couple of hours spent in misty rain and overcast conditions yielded several good birds including two Ground Parrots, one of which was flushed and seen well in flight by three of us. Several Crescent Honeyeaters were also heard and eventually seen near the main road. In addition, the Eastern Bristlebirds were their usual confiding selves, a Beautiful Firetail was seen, and Southern Emu-wrens and a Pilotbird were heard. A nest-building Brown Antechinus and an Echidna were non-avian highlights.
Ashwin Rudder, Joshua Bergmark, Lachlan Hall and Max Breckenridge 5/2 #222127
Spotted Quail-thrush, Scarlet Robin, Rockwarbler
Cataract Dam and surrounds
On the fringes of the bushland and roads to/around Cataract Dam (Appin Rd entrance), some excellent birds were seen, including several Spotted Quail-thrush. A single male Scarlet Robin and a few Rockwarblers were also seen. The area showed a lot of promise to be potentially home to several birds unusual or rare within the Sydney region.
Ashwin Rudder, Max Breckenridge and Joshua Bergmark 5/2 #222128
Scaly-breasted Lorikeet
Wee Waa
This morning at the Wee Waa lagoon I found 2 Scaly-breasted Lorikeets feeding in eucalypts together with Rainbow Lorikeets. While I have seen Rainbow Lorikeets this far west before, this is a first for Scaly-breasted Lorikeets. Further information
Michael Dahlem 5/2 #222130
Streaked & Sooty Shearwaters
Long Reef Aquatic Reserve
Seawatch from about 5:40-7pm. A single Streaked Shearwater passed southwards approx 6:40 quite close to the reef. 4 Sooty Shearwaters seen (all singles) also and a few small packets (5-10 birds) of Short-tailed Shearwaters also headed south. Amongst the Wedge-tailed and Fluttering type shearwaters were also some heavy looking jaegers chasing Crested Terns, but too far off to discern between Pomarine or Arctic. Nothing unusual on the reef itself.
Tom Wilson 5/2 #222133
Wed 4Grey Goshawk
Coutts Crossing Village
Large, probable female, Grey Goshawk flew from ground to tree in our yard this afternoon with dead prey - one of the neighbour's domestic pigeons. Chevrons on chest suggest a first year bird. Has been present in the area since 31 January. Only one or two previous records at this site and not recorded for some years.
Greg Clancy 4/2 #222111
Blue-billed Ducks
Tallawarra Ash Pond 3, Yallah. Restricted Access.
2 males sighted & one female with 4 ducklings. The second breeding event for this species at the pond. What effect will the impending housing development have on this precious site. Other highlights were Freckled, Pink-eared, Shoveller & Musk Ducks. Plus 2 Southern Emu-wrens. eBird checklist
Paul Lynch 4/2 #222114
Black-tailed Godwit, Common Sandpiper, Greater Sand Plover, Beach Stone Curlew
Clarence Estuary
Shorebird Survey in Clarence Estuary at several count areas - highlights: Micalo Island: 77 Black-tailed Godwit Rabbit Island: 3 Beach Stone-curlew Dart Island: 29 Black-tailed Godwit, 78 Bar-tailed Godwit, 57 Red Knot, 7 Great Knot, 1 Greater Sand Plover 1 Common Sandpiper observed in nature reserve near Chrystal Waters Estate canal development.
Darryl and Gary Eggins and Greg Clancy 5/2 #222115
White-rumped Sandpiper
Lake Wollumboola
Continuing bird. After a search in the dunes/sandbar area south of where the Little Tern area was fenced off, the WRSA was located roosting close to the Red-necked Stints. Hard to detect as was behind a sand ridge a little away from most of the RNST. Flew down to the lakeside to feed a short time later mainly at the southern end towards Chestnut Teal. Photos taken by myself and Narelle. Two Lesser Sand Plover and 1 Fairy Tern still around but many birds have left and there is still a number of Crested and Little Terns with juveniles. eBird checklist
Carla Jackett, Narelle Wright 5/2 #222126
Eastern Osprey
Moruya Heads
One bird seen and photographed along South Heads rd between Moruya and Maruya Heads on the opposite side of the bridge from Preddeys Wharf rd. Approximately 2pm. Further information
Julie Marten via Kurtis Lindsay 6/2 #222140
Tue 3Long-tailed Jaeger and Black-browed Albatross
Mistral Point, Maroubra
Amazing passage of :75 Long-tailed Jaegers, 92 Pomarine Jaegers, 4 Arctic Jaegers, 4 Black-browed Albatross, 1 Sooty Shearwater and 6 Flesh-footed Shearwaters plus many commoner seabirds, it was all over by 7:30 am. A probable Yellow-nosed Albatross also seen, but I couldn't see the bill properly due to lack of light.
David Mitford 3/2 #222085
Square-tailed Kite
Tura Beach, NSW
Sighted at 4:00pm. Two birds were sighted. They landed in branches, and were also swooping around, looking for something to eat. Observed them for about 5 minutes. -36.870329, 149.925178
Peter Buggy 7/2 #222152
Sun 1Rufous Scrub-bird, Olive Whistler
Barrington National Park (Gloucester Tops)
Rufous Scrub-bird seen well on road edge, bird flew in front of car. Watched for ten minutes while bird was vocalising and displaying in open. RSB seen briefly at other site, three other birds heard calling over 2 days at other sites. Great bird! Olive Whistler heard and seen with limited views, with only 1 other OW heard calling on trip. Several Crescent Honeyeaters seen and heard. [Moderator note: the literature suggests scrub-birds only call Aug-Nov, so this is a good record - AR]
Tom Petty and Orlando Bennett 1/2 #222061
Southern Boobook (juvenile)
Nepean Weir, Penrith
I found this young bird roosting in a grevillea bush at head height this evening.
Ákos and Donata Lumnitzer 1/2 #222065
Black Kite
M4 Western Motorway, 1km East of Bennett Rd, St Clair
1 Black Kite observed gliding low over the highway. In serious moult. A single Goldfinch also flew over ahead of the kite.
Simon Gorta 1/2 #222066
Little Friarbird
342 Singles Ridge Road, Yellow Rock (Private Property)
Surprised to see one Little Friar foraging in the trees around the house. Responded well to my whistling and flew in close providing great views. There appear to be only six other records of these birds in the Blue Mountains, the latest being 21/3/2005 at Echo Point and 10/3/2005 at Blue Gum Swamp. eBird checklist
Simon Gorta 1/2 #222067
Osprey
Balmoral Beach
An Osprey seen doing a long glide over Balmoral Beach around mid-day today. After a slow circle over Wyargine Point it headed north towards The Spit, pursued by a pair of Masked Lapwings.
Robert Griffin 1/2 #222068
Black-chinned and Yellow-tufted Honeyeaters
Mates Creek Stock Reserve via Wagga
Black-chinned, Yellow-tufted and Fuscous Honeyeaters along with White-bellied Cuckoo-Shrike, Fan-tailed Cuckoo and an immature Little Eagle seen at this stock reserve on Mates Creek Road east of Wagga.
Nella Smith and Max O'Sullivan 2/2 #222074
Powerful Owl
Pymble
Heard a Powerful Owl calling along with a chick also calling loudly in a southerly corner of Pymble Ladies College grounds around 9pm onwards. The chick has been calling on and off for the past week.
Ella Murray 2/2 #222080
January 2015
Sat 31Glossy Black Cockatoo
Tascott
First sighting for 4 or 5 months. One young and two adult birds.
Andrew Whitaker 31/1 #222032
Note on the South Island Pied Oystercatcher (Subject to submission to BARC)
Bundagen Headland
There is/was apparently a second bird at the site that is either a 'very strange' Australian Pied Oystercatcher or an Australian x SIPO hybrid. The last positive report including photographs of the original 'true' SIPO (pending BARC decision) came from Lachlan Hall on the 13th January. Photos from later show a bird which did not match the photos by Lachlan Hall and Peter Higgins (both on Eremaea), but appeared intermediate between Australian and SIPO in both structure and plumage. I am not sure when the original SIPO was last seen. Do other observers from after the 13th January get photographs of their oystercatcher? This could help resolve this issue. Thanks a lot!
Nikolas Haass (I have only seen photos of both birds, I did not see them in the field) 31/1 #222034
White-rumped Sandpiper
Lake Wollumboola
Sandpiper present in same area as observed in post for 30 January, associating loosely with Red-necked Stints and Red-capped Plovers on the sand. However, was seen at least twice on its own away from other birds hunkered down in a small scrape in the sand. Also seen around the lake today were 7 Red Knot, 2 Eastern Curlew, 1 Lesser Sand-Plover and 2 Grey Goshawks (1 each of Grey and White morphs). NB - The Knots flew off over the lake somewhere so if the waders are not around, there must be another area on the lake shore where the birds are congregating.
Tom Wilson 31/1 #222047
Black Bittern
Warriewood Wetlands
Good views of a Black Bittern were a highlight at Warriewood today.
Fiona Brook and Ray Gobbe 31/1 #222052
Australian Owlet-nightjar
Llandilo
In a patch of remnant bush not far from the pet cemetery at Berkshire Park. I initially noted the bird sitting in a hollow that is one I know and have been watching for months for anything interesting. Today, voila. I returned later in the day to take photos of this little bird as it sat sun baking at the edge.
Ákos and Donata Lumnitzer 31/1 #222053
Shy Albatross
Mistral Point, Maroubra
Light south-easterlies winds produced very little today. 20+ Pomarine Jaeger, 1 Arctic Jaeger (dark morph ) and 2 Long-tailed Jaegers were par for the course but Shy Albatross cruising north was a very welcome bonus, interestingly, it showed an obvious, symmetrical primary wing moult pattern.
David Mitford 1/2 #222054
Arctic Jaeger, pale morph
Boiler Point, Port Kembla
6.45pm photoed this bird pirating between the point & Big Island. Earlier in the week I observed & photoed a dark morph & pale morph Artic Jaeger from Red Point, pirating from Silver Gulls & Crested Terns in the same area. eBird checklist
Paul Lynch 1/2 #222057
Wandering Whistling Duck
Macksville Sewerage treatment Works
About 12 Wandering Whistling Ducks sighted on the pond on both Saturday and Sunday.
Evan Cleland 2/2 #222076
Fri 30Square-tailed Kite, Pale-vented Bush-hen
Gibraltar Reserve
Pair of Square-tailed Kites, Pale-vented Bush-hen, Lewin's Rail & 8 Chestnut-breasted Mannikins the highlights of this mornings tour. 62 species before lunchtime.
Simon Clayton & guests 30/1 #222022
Common Greenshank
Lake Wollumboola
4 Common Greenshank 2 Eastern Curlew
Tony Dawe 30/1 #222023
Square-tailed Kite
Umina Beach
One Square-tailed Kite flew over our backyard on Neptune Street this afternoon. Very good views. This was my first sighting of the species in this area, having lived here since October 2013.
Andrew Walker 30/1 #222026
Great Egret, Little Egret, Cattle Egret White Ibis.
Kirchner St Grafton NSW 2460
11.30am. Egret colony very active with birds carrying nesting material. Large numbers of Cattle Egret. White Ibis on site for first time and nest building. Also Great Egret seen to fly into trees and land and Little Egret seen overhead leaving site.
Warren Thompson 30/1 #222027
White-rumped Sandpiper
Lake Wollumboola
The White-rumped Sandpiper was relocated (thanks to Frank's efforts)around noon today sheltering from the wind in the Little Tern nesting area. A word of advice to birders heading that way this weekend is that all signage and fencing of the tern breeding area has been removed by the council and there is no way of knowing where it is unless you have visited before. The site is almost directly across the lake from the car park steps.
Roger and Louise McGovern, Frank Antram 30/1 #222028
Barn Owl
Kooringal Avenue, Thornleigh -loop at end
Found by torch after hearing unfamiliar call at our backyard birdbaths then high in neighbours trees. Excellent views shortly after when the owl landed on the road adjacent to the gutter then promptly flew off over our house, clearly showing white beneath and facial disc. Further confirmed when checked the call on my smartphone bird app. First one seen or heard in the 20 years we have lived here. eBird checklist
Cameron Ward 30/1 #222031
Thu 29Pectoral Sandpiper, Marsh Sandpiper
Turkey-nest dam, about 30 km east of Deniliquin, private property
The Pectoral Sandpiper is of note because it's the first one seen in the Deniliquin district since December 2002. Several other waders at the dam. Further information
Philip Maher 30/1 #222024
Wed 28Sooty Terns
Fort Drive, Newcastle
2 Sooty Terns seen flying past Fort Dr. Newcastle, Adult and Imm..
Steve Roderick 28/1 #221996
Little Shearwater
Booderee National Park--Bherwerre Beach
One washed up in the tideline along with a number of Fluttering, Wedge-tailed & Short-tailed Shearwaters after several days of onshore weather. Several Streaked Shearwaters seen close in off nearby Cape St George. The Little Shearwater was identified by its small size compared to the Fluttering Shearwater and its blue legs. Submission will be prepared for NSWORAC and photos of the carcase will be provided.
Martin Schulz 28/1 #222002
Streaked Shearwater, Buller's Shearwater
Mistral Point, Maroubra
1 Buller's Shearwater seen early in the morning quite close in travelling south. A Streaked Shearwater was seen later in the morning, also travelling south. Numerous Pomarine and Arctic Jaegers were observed along with at least one Hutton's Shearwater. eBird checklist
Simon Gorta and Ray Gobbe 29/1 #222015
Tue 27Streaked Shearwaters, Great-winged Petrel
Fort Drive, Newcastle
Short seawatch due to heavy rain, 2 Streaked Shearwaters plus a Great-winged Petrel in close. Good numbers of Shearwaters mainly Wedgeys with a few hundred Short-tailed, also 1 Fleshy and Fluttering Type.
Steve Roderick 27/1 #221988
Streaked Shearwater
North Wall, Ballina
Single Streaked Shearwater seen on 6 occasions during 2 hour seawatch, possibly same bird. Also Onychoprion type Tern, likely Sooty Tern but very distant, 2 Pomarine Jaegers plus a number of unidentified Jaeger species & a single Fluttering type Shearwater. eBird checklist
Steve McBride 28/1 #222008
Square-tailed Kite
Jaspers Brush, Princes Hwy
Gliding low close to highway just north of Silo's restaurant. Adult Wedge-tailed Eagle also seen nearby.
Carla Jackett 29/1 #222009
Mon 26Red-tailed Black Cockatoo
Condobolin Memorial Park
While attending local Australia Day ceremony this morning was surprised to see a pair of Redtail Blacks fly over. Only the second time I've ever seen them here. Other birds of note were White-breasted Woodswallows nesting in a palm tree close by. My first sighting of these birds in Condobolin
Warren Chad 26/1 #221963
Wonga Pigeon
Long Beach, Batemans Bay
In our front yard 1 Wonga Pigeon 4 Common Bronzewing & 7 White-Headed Pigeons
Tony & Stephanie Dawe 26/1 #221964
Buller's Shearwater, Streaked Shearwater
Mistral Point, Maroubra
Highlights of a two hour sea watch at Maroubra this morning were 2 Buller's Shearwaters and 2 Streaked Shearwaters. Also many flocks of Short-tailed Shearwaters, a continuous stream of Wedge-tailed Shearwaters, several Fluttering Shearwaters, a Sooty Shearwater, a Black-browed Albatross, 1 Long-tailed Jaeger, 2 Pomerine Jaegers and an Arctic Jaeger and a pair of Little Penguins.
Robert Griffin 26/1 #221972
Streaked Shearwater.
Sydney Harbour National Park, North Head.
Highlight of a sea watch from north head today were 27 Streaked Shearwaters this is my 2nd highest count of streaked shearwater off Sydney.
michael ronan. 26/1 #221976
Streaked Shearwaters & Long-tailed Jaeger
Mistral Point, Maroubra
At least 11 Streaked Shearwaters seen today. Also noted were 4 Long-tailed Jaegers and about 10 Pomarine Jaegers. Only 2 Flesh-footed Shearwater were seen all day amongst the hundreds of of Wedgies and Short-tailed Shearwaters.
David Mitford, Ray Gobbe and Fiona Brooke 26/1 #221979
White-winged Fairy-wren
The Living Desert, Broken Hill
Leucistic White-winged Fairy-wren, male Further information
Surong Gunn 26/1 #221981
Glossy Black-Cockatoo
Loadstone NSW [about 33km N of Kyogle]
Pair landed high in a Forest Red Gum, female solicited with "begging" call and swaying "dance"and approached male. 3 copulations followed then they flew off, female leading. Also a single bird flew over calling.
Rob Elvish 28/1 #221995
White-necked Petrel, White Tern, Kermadec Petrel
About 100 nm east of Brooms Head
Seen from cruise ship 29'43'39"S, 155'40'40"E in 4000m. Further information
Greg Roberts 1/2 #222059
Sun 25Powerful Owl
Lovers Jump Creek Reserve, North Turramurra
Single bird seen roosting over the stream at south end of reserve approx 7:30am
Tom Wilson 25/1 #221953
White-throated Needletail (1000)
Sydney Olympic Park
The biggest flock I have seen since the 1980s in Sydney covering a kilometre plus in size with hundreds and hundreds of birds centred over Meadowbank. Despite a half hour scour no sign of Fork-tailed Swift. Other good birds today included Australian Hobby (1 female), Tawny Frogmouth (2), Nankeen Night-Heron (1), Glossy Ibis (1) Mangrove Gerygone (2), Australasian Pipit (1) Black-shouldered Kite (1 juv), WB Sea-Eagle (2), Dollarbird (8)
Dion Hobcroft 25/1 #221955
Rainbow bee eaters
Tallong Drive, Lake Cathie
Small flocks of birds,heading north all day
Darin Rounsevell 25/1 #221959
South Island Pied Oystercatcher and Common Noddy
Bundagen Headland -South of Sawtell
Single SIPO observed with three Sooty Oystercatchers. SIPO in same location as previous observations. Also 200+ Common Terns, Little Terns resting on rocks with lone Common Noddy. Large groups of Common Terns and Wedge-tailed Shearwaters working close to shore feeding on scaps from pelagic fish feeding.
Michael Cheers, Kevin Cheers and Anthony Moore 26/1 #221968
Sat 24White-rumped Sandpiper
Lake Wollumboola, Culburra
Bird showing exceedingly well all morning. Also 2 Fairy Terns, 1 Great Knot, 2 Red Knot, 3 Curlew Sandpipers, 9 White-winged Black Tern.
Chris Gladwin, Murray Lord 24/1 #221922
Square-tailed Kite
Nowra
Two birds on Kalandar Road about 1.5 km from the highway towards Culburra in the early afternoon.
Murray Lord and Chris Gladwin 24/1 #221923
Mangrove Gerigone
Liberty Grove Wetlands, Rhodes
One Mangrove Gerygone singing beautifully came to say hello when I attempted to mimic him. He was spotted and photographed Between the bridge and the bird lookout toward the Rhodes side of the bridge.
Richard Hardiman 24/1 #221925
Magpie Goose
Putta Bucca Wetlands, Mudgee
4 birds in dead trees on eastern side of wetlands.
Mark Leary 24/1 #221927
Streaked Shearwater
Sydney Harbour National Park--North Head
2 Streaked Shearwaters flying in with Wedge-tailed Shearwaters off north head today.
michael ronan. 24/1 #221930
Pectoral Sandpiper
Lake Chickiba, Ballina
Single Pectoral Sandpiper observed at Lake Chickiba today. My first for this site.
Steve McBride 24/1 #221931
Glossy Ibis, Latham's Snipe, Collared Sparrowhawk
McPherson Rd Swamp, Gavenlock Rd Tuggerah
There were a group of 4 Glossy Ibis feeding in this swamp this morning, where at least 10 Latham's Snipe were seen on the Swamp. A Sparrowhawk was escorted across the wetland by Magpies and Noisy Miners; 2 separate small groups of Chestnut-breasted Mannikins were seen that included juvenile birds; a pair of White-breasted Woodswallows were feeding dependant young; and Cisticolas, Tawny Grassbirds, Sacred Kingfisher and Dollarbirds were seen by 14 members of the Cumberland Bird Club.
Alan Morris and 12 members of CBOC 25/1 #221947
Sooty Tern & White-winged Black Tern (2)
Wollongong pelagic
1 Sooty Tern and 2 White-winged Black Terns were the highlights of this months SOSSA Wollongong pelagic. The White-winged Black Terns were well offshore and were flying north. Other sightings include many Wedge-tailed Shearwaters, Pomerine and Long-tailed Jaegers, Black-browed Albatross, Wilson's Storm-petrels and unseasonably low numbers of Flesh-footed Shearwaters and Grey-faced Petrels. eBird checklist
Robert Hynson for all on bord the Sandra K (SOSSA pelagic) 28/1 #221994
Fri 23White-rumped Sandpiper (Update)
Lake Wollumboola
White-rumped Sandpiper feeding at water's edge
Tony Dawe plus other birders 23/1 #221915
Thu 22Black-necked Stork
East Maitland
A single bird was seen at the water's edge in intermittent wetlands down from Rathluba Ridge in East Maitland. It stayed for some hours and was observed until dark, but had gone the next morning. There were also over 40 Black-winged Stilt, along with numerous Pelican, ducks, Coot, cormorants, and gulls
Mandy Anderson 29/1 #222013
Wed 21White-rumped Sandpiper
Lake Wollumboola
The White-rumped Sandpiper was resting within the electric fence with Red-capped Plover and Red-necked Stint at Lake Wollumboola today. Also present, a Common Tern, ten White-winged Black Tern, Little and Fairy Tern, eight Lesser Sand Plover, five Red Knot and a Great Knot, a Sanderling, four Curlew Sandpiper as well as a number of Sharp-tailed Sandpiper.
Dimitris Bertzeletos and Julie Morgan 21/1 #221884
Black-necked Stork
Oxley Hwy, Port Macquarie
One adult Black-necked Stork seen at 7:30 am just 700m west of the Base Hospital on the North side of the Hwy. Very uncommon in this area of late.
Ian Kerr 21/1 #221886
Square-tailed Kite
Beechwood
One seen very low, being harassed by magpies as it circled at 4:38pm.
Ian Kerr 21/1 #221887
Freckled Duck (1), Little Pied Cormorant (nesting)
Harrington Park Lake (about 6km North-east of Camden)
A single Freckled Duck observed. Also, at at least three Little Pied Cormorant nests (in the trees on the man-made island in middle of lake) that contained Adults brooding young birds.
Michael Paul 22/1 #221902
Tue 20Common Noddy, Sooty Terns, Pomarine Jaeger
Fort Drive, Newcastle, Hunter Valley
1 Common Noddy seen flying past, also 2 Sooty Terns and 2 Pomarine Jaegers, many thousands of Shearwaters, mostly Wedge-tailed. Only a 1hr session.
Steve Roderick 20/1 #221869
Glossy Ibis
McPherson Road Swamp
3 seen near the McPherson Road edge of the swamp from about 250 metres west of Gavenlock Road intersection.
Graeme Robinson 20/1 #221870
Common Noddy, White-winged Black Tern
Flat Rock, Ballina
1 Common Noddy & 4 White-winged Black Tern resting on Flat Rock late this afternoon. The Noddy appeared to have an injured wing, but seemed to be flying without a problem. eBird checklist
Steve McBride 20/1 #221878
Barking Owl, Black-faced Monarch
Burrlow track Blue Mountains national park near bellbird hill
One Barking Owl heard calling at about 9pm we did not see the bird.
Kareena, Josh Allen 20/1 #221879
Mon 19Glossy Black-Cockatoo
Lower Pappinbarra
6 GBC seen this morning at 6:08am eBird checklist
Ian Kerr 19/1 #221853
Pacific Baza
Wareemba Avenue Thornleigh
3.15pm perch high in blue gum in front yard. Took photos from deck. Quiet cry as it left - flew east
Elizabeth Baxendale 19/1 #221859
Freckled Duck, Marsh Sandpiper
Cotton farm, Ashley
6 Freckled Ducks were observed in a full 80 hectare (200 acres) irrigation farm dam. There were no other ducks present in this particular dam either and no vegetation at all. At least 250 Glossy Ibis were observed altogether in another irrigation dam, the highest count for this site. At another (low) irrigation dam, 75+ Red-necked Avocets, 200+ Black-winged Stilts, 6+ Marsh Sandpipers and 12 Sharp-tailed Sandpipers were found. 250 Whiskered Terns, 100 Gull-billed Terns, 10 Caspian Terns and 10 Silver Gulls were found resting in another irrigation farm dam. eBird checklist
Curtis Hayne and Ainslee Lines 19/1 #221861
Australasian Shoveler (6) Peregrine Falcon (1 juv)
Sydney Olympic Park--Waterbird Refuge
Highest ever count of Shovelers here, all feeding along the far edge in amongst the teal, so quite distant and not easy to make out. Recently fledged Peregrine Falcon repeatedly chasing gulls and avocets causing a lot of panic-great views. At Mason Park there were 15 Sharp-tailed Sandpipers, 1 Curlew Sandpiper and 1 Red-kneed Dotterel.
Dion Hobcroft 19/1 #221863
Black-necked Stork
1931 Pacific Hwy, Cowper, east of Ulmarra
Two seen in a water meadow on north side of Highway.
Colleen Lock 19/1 #221865
Onychoprion-type Tern, Buller's Shearwater, Great-winged Petrel
Mistral Point, Maroubra
One Onychoprion-type Tern was observed late in the day. It was flying south incredibly fast. No gliding involved. Sadly it was too distant to rule out either bridled or sooty, although it did appear to have a greyish back, with an intermediate wingspan between sooty and bridled (when compared with shearwaters), but it remains unidentified as no definite ID features were observed. One Buller's Shearwater was seen by a few of the observers a fair distance out. 2 Great-winged Petrel were seen earlier in the day. All other species seen can be found on the list attached. False Killer Whales (5) and a Whaler Shark (1) was also observed. eBird checklist
Simon Gorta, John Graff, Ray Gobbe, Biggles, Adrian Dick 20/1 #221868
Streaked Shearwater
Sydney Harbour National Park--North Head
1 Streaked Shearwater heading south of north head this afternoon.
michael ronan. 20/1 #221874
Magpie Goose
South Grafton
98 Magpie Geese seen beside the Pacific Hwy 1.5km east of South Grafton.
Brett Allen 22/1 #221896
Common Noddy
Nambucca Heads
One seen resting on a rocky outcrop 50m north of the Nambucca River entrance.
Brett Allen 3/2 #222094
Sun 18Crested Shrike-tit
Riverstone
Early morning between 6:30am and 7am spotted 2 Crested Shrike-tits. Also photographed Olive-backed Orioles, Scarlet Honeyeater, Yellow- faced Honeyeater, juvenile Red-rumped Parrots, Eastern Spinebills, and juvenile Rufous Whistler and golden whistler. All seen just behind the cemetery.
Stephen and Antonella Gilmour 18/1 #221847
Streaked Shearwater,Long-tailed Jaeger, Black-browed Albatross.
Sydney Harbour National Park-North Head.
Seen my second Streaked Shearwater flying south with Wedge-tailed Shearwaters this afternoon also 20+Black-browed albatross and 3 Long-tailed Jaegers.
michael ronan. 18/1 #221849
White-headed Pigeon
Epping, corner Beecroft Road and Kandy Avenue
One adult White-headed Pigeon in a garden on the corner of Beecroft Road and Kandy Avenue. First time I see this species in the area.
Wouter Maes 19/1 #221854
Golden Whistler, Satin Bowerbird,
Coutts Crossing Village
Immature Golden Whistler, probably 2nd year bird as rufous on wings very slight. This is an early record of this species which is usually an autumn-winter migrant-visitor to the local area. Adult female Bowerbird feeding two juveniles in backyard. Adult had been banded in the backyard on 22 Oct 2011.
Greg Clancy 19/1 #221856
Wood Sandpiper
Hexham Swamp
Wood Sandpiper photographed along the old pipeline track (exact location can't be confirmed) on Sunday. Very few shorebirds have been visible from the track in recent times. Hopefully these rain events may change things out there.
Jeff Jones per Mick Roderick 19/1 #221858
Brown Quail
The Living Desert, Broken Hill
Two Brown Quails were spotted and heard on the walking track in the Living Desert, Broken Hill after 4 days rain.
Surong Gunn 26/1 #221982
Sat 17Whiskered Tern, Caspian Tern, Common Tern, Pied Oystercatcher
Clarence River, near Lawrence
Large mixed flock of terns roosting on sandpit in Clarence River 1.5km SE of Lawrence (observed approx 1km south of Lawrence ferry from Woodford Dale Rd). Approx 20-30 Whiskered Tern, 2 Caspian Tern, 1 Common Tern, many Crested Tern. Also 2 Pied Oystercatchers. Many Silver Gull. Whiskered Terns have been present on Clarence River (observed from Grafton downstream to Maclean) for previous few months.
Darryl and Gary Eggins and Maureen O'Shea 18/1 #221837
Brown Booby
28km east of Terrigal
Brown Booby seen on a fishing trip 28km due east of Terrigal, circling the boat twice at close range.
Obi Gabriel per Mick Roderick 18/1 #221838
White-rumped Sandpiper
Lake Wollumboola
White-rumped Sandpiper still present in the usual spot feeding adjacent to the Little Tern breeding area. Also several Red Knot and single Great Knot and a single White-winged Black Tern. Didn't see the reported Broad-billed Sandpipers.
Simon Blanchflower 18/1 #221839
South Island Pied Oystercatcher
Bundagen Headland
Went on a grueling pilgrimage in searing 36 degree heat to see the SIPO. Walked from the Surf Club all the way to the point, where the bird was associating with up to three Sooty Oystercatchers on the rock platform at Bundagen Point. Also fresh Juv. Little Tern.
David Mitford 18/1 #221846
Fri 16Grey-fronted Honeyeater
The OId Wheatfield, Nombinnie Nature Reserve, Mt. Hope
A single Grey-fronted Honeyeater, was seen in the Old Wheatfield, Nombinnie NR. The bird was very flighty and disappeared quickly.
Andrew Walker 18/1 #221842
Red-tailed Tropicbird & Brown Skua
Sydney (Coast)
Went fishing out through the heads towards 12 mile (about 20kms) and saw a lot of seabirds. I'm a pretty ordinary sea-birder, but I certainly saw a lot of the same shearwaters (probably wedgetailed) and petrels (great-winged I think). A few singles though- a single Shy Albatross, a single Brown Skua, a lone Long-tailed Jaeger, a Sooty Shearwater, 2 Fairy Penguins and a single Red-tailed Tropicbird. [Moderator: the observer, while familiar with Pomarine Jaegar, is unable to, with complete certainty, rule out that species in place of the Brown Skua. AR]
Henry Cook 20/1 #221871
Eastern Osprey
Wurrungwuri Reserve, Moorebank
Single bird in heavy moult soaring over the woodlands of the Reserve close to the Georges River
David James 16/4 #222979
Thu 15White-rumped Sandpiper
Lake Wollumboola
Showing well throughout late morning-early afternoon. Two Broad-billed Sandpipers, two Lesser Sand-Plovers, two White-winged Black Terns and a Whiskered Tern. No sign of Great Knot or Fairy Tern for us.
Dion Hobcroft, David James and Dean Purcell 15/1 #221810
Lesser Sand Plover & Curlew Sandpipers
Soldiers Point (Norah Head)
A Lesser Sand Plover and 15+ Curlew Sandpipers were observed between 10:45 and 11:18 out the front of the rock self (Low Tide) Other species were 76+ Red-necked Stints, 20+ Ruddy Turnstones and 4+ Grey-tailed tattlers.
Steve Merrett 16/1 #221813
Wed 14Plumed Whistling-duck
Waterbird Refuge, Sydney Olympic Park
30 Plumed Whistling Ducks at the Waterbird Refuge at 10:00 am today. In a tight group about halfway down the long side.
Jenny Stiles, Rod Stiles, Geoff Hutchinson, Marie Lister and Margaret Murray. 14/1 #221783
Latham's Snipe, Wandering Whistling Duck.
Swamp near Ironbark Creek, Minmi Rd, Wallsend
Flushed at least 40 Latham's Snipe which were on the drying out SW area of the swamp - (swimming pool carpark end). Also spotted a Brown Honeyeater. Saw 3 Wandering Whistling-Ducks at the Bunnings pond next door.
John French & Fiona Lumsden 14/1 #221788
Great Frigatebird
Shelley Beach, Port Macquarie.
A female Great Frigatebird was observed flying North along Shelley Beach at 11:30 this morning. (Moderator's Note: Great Frigatebirds are on the NSWORAC Review List and therefore this sightings should be referred to the that committee for review, a urrf can be down loaded for this purpose. (AKM).
Liz Hawkins per Clive Meadows 14/1 #221789
Square-tailed Kite
Culburra Beach
One bird flying low over The Lake Circuit (close to shops) about 9am. Tremendous views. 3 Australian Magpies chased it away.
Lorne Johnson 14/1 #221790
White-rumped Sandpiper
Culburra Beach
Bird still present this morning in same spot - despite strong westerly - and seen by many birders. Other birds of note: Broad-billed Sandpiper, Great Knot, Red Knot, Lesser Sand Plover, Little Tern, Fairy Tern.
Lorne Johnson 14/1 #221791
Plumed Whistling-Duck
Sydney Olympic Park--Waterbird Refuge
28 Plumed Whistling-Duck resting at low tide 9.00am
Marie Lister 14/1 #221792
Wedge-tailed Eagle (x4)
Castlereagh
Four Wedge-tailed Eagles were observed by my friend at approximately 17:40 today. I am awaiting photographs. They were near gate 12 of the quarries.
Ákos Lumnitzer for Peter Phealan 14/1 #221794
Pacific Emerald Dove
Coutts Crossing Village
Adult male Pacific Emerald Dove returned to our backyard today at about 16:50 hrs. I heard its call at first and then later it was feeding on the fallen fruits of Cockspur Thorn, probably just eating the seeds, and later was seen to eat the seeds of a native Basket Grass Oplismenus aemulus. I took some photos but as the bird was continually moving they weren't as good as I had hoped for.
Greg Clancy 14/1 #221796
Scarlet Honeyeater
Ulan
Foraging and singing from flowering Rough-barked Apple (Angophora floribunda) near Corporate Rd. Up two two birds but more may have been present.
Kurtis Lindsay 14/1 #221800
Tue 13White-rumped Sandpiper
Lake Wollumboola
The bird was located in the fenced-off tern breeding area. It made no attempt to move off and was quite busy just preening before it sat down to rest.
Ben Weston 13/1 #221770
Emerald Dove
Coutts Crossing Village, SW of Grafton
Adult male Dove observed walking on ground in our backyard at 16:05 hrs, disappeared when I rushed to get camera/scope. Reappeared at 16:35 hrs walking on path near our bird bath at our back door. Disappeared again as I went for the camera. This is our first backyard record of the species, my first for the Coutts Crossing area and my first for the Clarence Valley for some years. This bird appears to be a rare, unpredictable, visitor to the Clarence Valley.
Greg & Val Clancy 13/1 #221772
Little Tern
Long Reef
I observed a single Little Tern this morning at Long Reef at 8am this morning. I saw it in flight, calling and also perched on the rockshelf. I had clear views of the black tip on the beak to distinguish it from a Fairy Tern
Jayden Walsh 13/1 #221778
Grey Ternlet, South Island Pied Oystercatcher
Tucker's Rocks to Bundagen Headland
SIPO was finally found at ~5:30pm, about 400m South of Tuckers Rocks - bird was solitary and eventually flew North past the rocks. Aus Pied Oystercatchers also seen with 3 feeding just to the north of Tuckers Rocks and 5 or so roosting on the rocks at Bundagen Headland but the SIPO was not seen with these birds at any time. Another notable sighting was a Grey Ternlet seen briefly, offshore from the Bundagen Headland rocks.
Lachlan Hall 14/1 #221780
Black-eared Cuckoo, Painted Honeyeater, Speckled Warbler
Bobadeen Rd, near Ulan
Four Black-eared Cuckoos seen over the 12-13th Jan in Ironbark - Acacia linearifolia woodland. Speckled Warblers breeding (seen at five locations) and Painted Honeyeater seen and heard at three locations. Some Mistletoe in fruit.
Kurtis Lindsay 14/1 #221799
Long-tailed Jaeger
Mistral Point, Maroubra
20+ Long-tailed Jaegers, including a flock of 14 birds together. 17 Pomarine Jaegers, 4 Flesh-footed Shearwaters, moderate numbers of Wedge-tailed Shearwaters and Short-tailed Shearwaters also noted. One or two Sooty and Fluttering Shearwaters also mixed in.
David Mitford 15/1 #221804
Mon 12Powerful Owl, Scarlet Honeyeater
Nurragingy Reserve
A young Powerful Owl was perching in a turpentine tree at the Currawong Picnic site and eating freshly killed ringtail possum early morning (7:15am). Ravens, magpies and miners were making a terrible noise and constantly harassing it. It didn't bother the bird at all. I left it after 30 minutes with few pieces of possum left under its foot. Other birds have forgotten about the owl and moved away. Also in the reserve: Scarlet Honeyeater ( 8 feeding in mistletoes near the Creek), Brown Honeyeater (1).
Ted Wnorowski 12/1 #221751
White-rumped Sandpiper
Lake Wollumboola
Still present today, despite somewhat miserable conditions on the beach at times! At least 3 Broad-billed SP, 2 Sharpies, and 2 Curlew SP as well. Same location as previously reported. Seen resting, feeding and in flight. I'll put up my full site list when I get home!
Elliot Leach, Lori Leach and others 12/1 #221753
Square-tailed Kite
Kooloobong Park, Keiraville
At 1:45pm, one Square-tailed Kite was gliding low - then higher - above Kooloobong Park's canopy and the forest at the base of Mt Keira. I was somewhat surprised to see a STK here, considering the habitat is closed forest and rainforest; Pizzey & Knight do mention that STKs frequent these habits though. Not sure how many records of STKs there are for Wollongong area.
Lorne Johnson 12/1 #221754
Red-necked Avocet, Black-necked Stork
Wooloweyah Lagoon, W of Angourie
32 Avocets at high tide roost at western edge of lagoon with other shorebirds. They had to to move as tide inundated their roost. Adult Black-necked Stork foraging at north-western edge of Lagoon flew to site at western edge. Possibly one of the local adult pair which hasn't been recorded breeding since 2001.
Greg Clancy & Russell Jago 13/1 #221771
Wedge-tailed eagle
Castlereagh Rd near Penrith Regional Lakes
2 circling wedge tails over trees on East side of road. A raven chased the rather ineffectually eBird checklist
Adrian o'hara 13/1 #221776
Pacific Baza
Warriewood Wetlands
Nesting site on eastern side of Powderworks road.
John Taylor 14/1 #221787
Sun 11Whimbrel
Deeban Spit Port Hacking
1 Whimbrel standing in with 16 eastern curlews at high tide.
Julie Keating 11/1 #221739
White-rumped Sandpiper, Broad-billed Sandpiper, Lesser Sand-plover, Fairy Tern
Lake Wollumboola
White-rumped Sandpiper located on the lake near the south western corner of the little tern nesting area before it flew with the other waders to within the fenced off area. It then moved between the two spots, but appeared most comfortable inside the fence. At least 4 Lesser Sand-plovers and 2 Broad-billed Sandpipers were also present. One Fairy Tern, two White-winged Black Terns and both knot species were also noted. eBird checklist
Simon Gorta, Julian Teh, Lachlan Hall & others 11/1 #221746
Painted Honeyeater
15 km Sth of Condobolin
The four or five pairs of Painted HEs are still present and breeding. Found a nest today with two large chicks just about to fledge. Also present were Superb Parrots and numerous Mistletoebirds with juveniles. Finally good rains recently have given the area some kind of Spring as a lot of the small birds are now starting a late breeding.
Warren Chad 11/1 #221750
Kermadec / White-necked Petrels, Buller's Shearwater, Sooty Tern (60+)
Pelagic off Port Stephens
Highlights of a very wet pelagic off Port Stephens yesterday were a dark Kermadec Petrel, White-necked Petrel, 2 Buller's Shearwaters and at least 60+ Sooty Terns. Most activity was inside the last 3 or 4 miles landward of the shelf break (in fact there was very little wide of the shelf, though rain was heavy there). We also had a distant 'Cookilaria' that got away on us. 12 White-faced Storm-petrels was a good number of this species in recent times for these pelagic trips. Photo of the Kermadec by Allan Richardson.
Mick Roderick and all aboard the MV Argonaut 12/1 #221752
Spotless Crake, Baillon's Crake
Pitt Town Lagoon
Had good views of 2 Spotless Crakea and 5 Baillon's Crakes at Pitt town lagoon today.
michael ronan 12/1 #221761
Wood Sandpiper
Belmore Swamp, Seales Rd, Kempsey
A single Wood Sandpiper was a nice surprise at this location. Bird landed on verge of swamp close to the road and provided great all round views. 10 Glossy Ibis present as well a several pairs of Australian Shoveler amongst the numerous Chestnut and Grey Teal. There were also 200+ Straw-necked Ibis feeding across a couple of wet paddocks on the south side. eBird checklist
Clive Meadows & Louise Earnshaw 15/1 #221802
Sat 10LIttle Egret
Nepean Weir, Penrith
2 Little Egrets at different times. One hunting along weir itself, then a second bird about two hours later arriving from downstream. An interesting note is that the previously dense population of nesting cormorants (for several years) across the river is no more. For some unknown reason the only nesting birds I've seen were three darters (3 nests), but the rest of the large quarry lake appeared just about devoid of life.
Ákos Lumnitzer 10/1 #221719
South Island Pied Oystercatcher
Bundagen Headland
Originally we saw the SIPO on the beach about 2km North of the end of Tuckers Rd. It then flew north about 500m to the rocks on Bundagen Headlands. There it rested with Australian Pied Oystercatchers allowing good comparison, until a Sea Eagle flew over and flushed all the birds present. In flight the SIPO was noticeably smaller than the APO, with a broad white trailing edge to the wing, joining the body, and a pointed white mark going up the back. After they had settled again a pair of APOs began to hassle the SIPO, eventually driving it south down the beach. It returned ten minutes later and was again driven off to the north, eventually flying out of sight. Under observation from approximately 2pm to 2:30pm.
Elliot Leach; Louise Ashton; Chris Burwell; Antonia Burwell-Rodriguez 10/1 #221723
Peaceful Dove
High Range, Wombeyan Caves
One bird heard mid-morning today, by Wombeyan Caves Rd. My first record for the Southern Highlands.
Lorne Johnson 10/1 #221725
Lesser Sand Plover
Boat Harbour, Kurnell
Amongst the usual mix for this time of year was a lone Lesser Sand Plover. Photographed attached. eBird checklist
Greg McLachlan 10/1 #221728
White-rumped Sandpiper & Broad-billed Sandpiper
Lake Wollumboola
White-rumped Sandpiper still present in same spot. Also noteworthy were 3 Broad-billed Sandpipers briefly 6-6:15pm
David Mitford 10/1 #221729
Black Falcon
Hiney Road, Orange
Two Black Falcons perched in dead tree over paddock with calling Brown Quail, one flew when disturbed.
Neville Schrader 10/1 #221730
Wandering Whistling-duck, Black-backed Bittern, Australasian Bittern
Fivebough Wetlands
Two Wandering Whistling-duck were observed and photographed in the central pond off Petersham Rd (the first one you get to taking the gravel track past the entrance building). Subsequently, two Australasian Bittern were flushed (see ebird for details). 3 Black-backed Bittern were flushed near the dirt mound overlooking the central pond the ducks were on, and a further single male was flushed on the sewage ponds. eBird checklist
Simon Gorta, Julian Teh, Meredith Thomas 10/1 #221731
Streaked Shearwater, Common Noddy.
Sydney Harbour National Park-North Head.
Seen my first Streaked Shearwater for the summer today in with Wedge-tailed Shearwaters and 2 Common Noddys flying north close to the water.
michael ronan. 10/1 #221733
Ostrich
Barham-Moama Rd and Lashbrooks Rd, NSW
Observed 12 adult Ostriches and 6 young ones at known site at Lashbrooks Rd. We were approx 1 km down Lashbrooks Rd looking east. Birds were well away from Lashbrooks Road but could be seen with bins and scope.
Jim and Greg Caine 11/1 #221737
Fri 9White-rumped Sandpiper
Lake Wollumboola
Good views at close range with about 9 others from 10:30-11:45am. Good comparison views next to Red-necked Stint. WRSA slightly larger, browner and duller, bill slightly decurved, tail feathers protrude past the tail. Speckles and some streaking on flanks. Overcast, no wind about 26C. First seen at Shoalhaven Heads on 5/1/15. Photo attached and eBird list attached but not complete. eBird checklist
Carla Jackett 10/1 #221724
Thu 8Great Frigatebird
Newcastle Harbour
Adult female Great Frigatebird once again observed by a number of observers in Newcastle Harbour today from early morning till approx. 10:15am. The bird disappeared to the north into Stockton Bight for sometime after that and was observed again in the Harbour just before midday. When present the bird appears to be moving between two areas, the inner Harbour and Nobby's Lighthouse. Conversations with local walkers, enquiring about this "strange bird", suggests that the bird may have been present since at least January 5. There is also an unconfirmed report that there may have been two birds present earlier in the week. Due to its rarity this bird will be subject to an ORAC submission.
Allan Richardson 8/1 #221692
Spotted Harrier
South Maroubra
Quartering the scrub between Magic Point and the Rifle Range, 8. 30 a.m. Also a Horsfield's Bronze-Cuckoo.
Ted Nixon 8/1 #221696
White-rumped Sandpiper
Lake Wollumboola, Culburra Beach.
The White-rumped Sandpiper was found today at Lake Wollumboola and kept under observation between 11.30 and 1430 hrs. It fed unconcerned by the people present, only flying off when the other waders were disturbed by presumably potential avian predators and then returning to its favoured feeding spot along the lake foreshore near the aforementioned Little Tern nesting area, and at a distance of about 300m from the car park that is located at the junction of Lake Circuit and Eastern Circuit Rds, Culburra Village. Other birds present included Red-necked Stints, 7 Red Knots, 1 Great Knot, Red-capped & Lesser Sand Plover, Curlew and Sharp-tailed Sandpiper, nesting Little Terns both on eggs and feeding young. More observers arrived after 1.30 pm.
Alan Morris, Greg McLachlan, Michael Scobie & Narelle Wright (photo) 8/1 #221702
Wedge-tailed Eagle
Matcham NSW
Seen 500 m Central Coast Hwy. There is evidence of feeding at the location as there are multiple rabbit kills near a large eucalyptus. Seen in flight being hassled by magpies. This is the 3rd sighting since 25 th Dec.2014
T.Jones 8/1 #221703
Little Bronze-Cuckoo, Forest Kingfisher, Coastal Emu
Brooms Head Road, Taloumbi
While observing an adult male Coastal Emu with 8 black-headed juveniles foraging actively in a paddock we heard two Little Bronze-Cuckoos in a nearby paperbark. When I located the Cuckoos I could see that they were both adult males. One was displaying to the other by spreading its wings and one was calling with a harsh call that I had not heard before. It was neither of the calls described for the species in HANZAB. I thought I saw a third Cuckoo but as the two males were moving about a fair bit it was hard to tell if there was an additional bird. A Forest Kingfisher was heard calling in the distance. The Emus disappeared suddenly when two Dingoes showed up.
Greg Clancy & Russell Jago 9/1 #221711
Wed 7Eastern Osprey
Nepean Weir, Penrith
I received an sms from my friend at 8:30am. She saw an Osprey at the weir! It was across the river at the weir itself in a dead branch :)
Ákos Lumnitzer for Sue Thomson of BMBO 7/1 #221668
Pacific Baza
Laurieton Retirement village
2 sub-adult birds observed calling and circling the local area, a third bird also heard calling apart from the two for the past 3 days.
Stephen Gallivan 7/1 #221669
South Island Pied Oystercatcher
Tucker's Rock
The SIPO was apparent at 7:30AM very close to the beach access from carpark, perhaps 100m north. In close association with a single Pied Oystercatcher.
John Weigel 7/1 #221675
Bush Stone-curlew
Featherdale Wildlife Park Doonside
One bird seen at about 5pm yesterday it was not an escape from the park
Joshua Allen 8/1 #221686
Great Frigatebird
Hunter River, between Nobbys and Carrington
First sighted by John Cockerell at ~1330 from Queens Wharf. Several independant observers viewed the bird by ~1630 from different locations and ID confirmed. Still on river on 8/1/2015 @0830.
Adam Fawcett 8/1 #221687
Great Frigatebird
Newcastle Harbour (incl. Nobby's Beach and Carrington Basin)
An unidentified frigatebird was first seen by John and Beth Cockerell at around 1pm yesterday (7 Jan) flying west up Newcastle Harbour towards Carrington. Word went out and it was then a chase to try and locate the bird for an ID, with Lucas Grenadier providing (distant) updates from his workplace along Honeysuckle Drive. At about 5pm Ian Benson and Adam Fawcett (both on opposite sides of the harbour) found it flying over the Hunter River near the Carrington terminals. They both identified it as an adult female Great Frigatebird through bins/scopes. Later, Dan Williams got some close images from Nobby's Breakwall showing the sullied pale throat, a brownish hind collar, broad-based belly patch, lack of spurs in the underwing and one dorsal shot showing narrow and brown alar bars, all confirming the ID as a female Great (one image attached). This species is on the NSW ORAC review list and will be assessed. If accepted, it would be a first for the Hunter Region. The bird has been seen today in the same areas as well. Of interest, a long trade flow causing consistent easterly winds stretching across the West Pacific has dominated recently and there seems to be potential for a tropical cyclone to develop in the Coral Sea over the weekend too. Maybe this bird is a pre-cursor of things to come?
John and Beth Cockerell and several others, per Mick Roderick 8/1 #221690
Sooty Tern
N of Corindi River mouth (Red Rock)
Adult beachcast.
Russell Jago 8/1 #221695
Bush Stone-curlew
Featherdale Wildlife Park Doonside
Yesterday afternoon a Bush Stone-curlew was in the main car park of Featherdale and then flew into the park it was not one of the parks birds that had excaped I'm a keeper at Featherdale and I counted all our birds and it was definitely not one of our birds did not stay for long before flying away and was not seen today. (Moderator's Note: The nearest breeding population of BSC is around Brisbane Water, in Gosford LGA. Here there is a breeding population of 3-5 pairs, most of which fledge one or two chicks per annum. Banding studies of this population has shown that there is some dispersal south of juvenile birds to Sydney's northern beach side suburbs and parklands along the Parramatta River. It is possible that this bird came from the Gosford LGA population, however the bird is too far way to indicate whether it was colour-banded.AKM)
Joshua Allen 8/1 #221697
Square-tailed Kite
Silverdale rd, Silverdale nsw
bird circled low over road and houses, harassed by butcher birds at one point when it tried to land in some trees eBird checklist
Adrian o'Hara 13/1 #221777
Tue 6White-rumped Sandpiper, Fairy Tern
Lake Wollumboola
Came across the White-rumped Sandpiper on the lake shore near the Little Tern breeding area early this morning. We are guessing it's the same bird from Shoalhaven Heads seen yesterday. Also, a single Fairy Tern identified, as well as 3 White-winged Black Terns.
Lachlan Hall, Henry Coleman, Stanley Tang and Andrew Walker 6/1 #221646
Brahminy Kite
Tuggerah
An adult Brahminy Kite was circling high in the sky near the Red Rooster Chicken restaurant. I got out of the car before entering the restaurant, and spied a kite sp. Reaching for the binoculars, to my astonishment, it turned out to be a Brahminy.
Logan Lalonde 6/1 #221657
Freckled Duck (5), Pink-eared Duck (2), Red-necked Avocet (45)
Tuggerah Wastewater Treatment Plant
Five Freckled Ducks were sitting on the mud shoreline at the main pond in the treatment plant. To access it, the main gates are closed, so walk on the right-hand side track, ( from Ibis Rd ), which leads to the ponds. A warning - be careful of snakes; Red-bellied Black are thought to be around. There were also 2 Pink-eared Ducks and exactly 45 Red-necked Avocets in the main pond as well. Logan Lalonde - 14 years old - visiting birder from Canada
Logan Lalonde 6/1 #221659
South Island Pied Oystercatcher
Between Tuckers Rock and Bundagen Headland, S of Coffs Harbour
Following up on Phil Gilmour's excellent sighting yesterday, we observed a single likely SIPO in the same area, associating with Australian Pied Oystercatchers. We walked all the way to Bundagen where at least 6 pied-type and 2 Sooty Oystercatchers were present on the rocks. Three pied oycs flew off to the south - from where we had walked - and we followed these up, getting good views. As reported yesterday, the bird showed clearly shorter legs, longer bill with less deep base, much more extensive white on upperwing, clearly reaching the trailing edge of the inner secondaries, the pointed/tapered white patch on the upper back, and extensively white underwing, including whole of innermost secondaries, bases of remaining secondaries and inner primaries, and most greater primary coverts. Other species at Bundagen included Pied and Great Cormorant, Ruddy Turnstone, Crested Terns and Silver Gulls. Could anyone looking for the bird, whether successful or not, please let me know via northernnsw@birdlife.org.au - thanks.
Peter Higgins, Michael Cheers & Peter Richards 6/1 #221660
Mon 5Glossy Black-Cockatoo
Eulah Creek
Group of 5 flying over to the North at 9:45 this morning, calling one another (no photo). Further information
Michael Dahlem 5/1 #221618
White-rumped Sandpiper
Shoalhaven Heads
A White-rumped Sandpiper was seen roosting at high tide amongst a flock of 80 Red-necked Stints on the foredune at the old rivermouth. See attached link for approximate location. Park at eastern end of River road and head south for about 500 metres. Also 2 Lesser Sand Plover and 1 Whimbrel seen. eBird checklist Further information
Nigel and Carla Jackett 5/1 #221626
Possible South Island Pied Oystercatcher
between Tuckers Rock and Bundagen Headland, about 15kms south of Coffs Harbour
This bird was seen this morning with two Australian Pied Oystercatchers. It had clearly shorter legs and longer bill and more white on trailing edge of upper wing and more white on underwing. Poor photo of flying bird attached. I also have photo on beach with Australian Pied Oystercatchers I will include in a separate post (see sighting #221633). [Moderator: this bird appears an extremely good candidate for SIPO - with luck more photos will confirm this incoming days. AR]
Phil Gilmour 5/1 #221632
Possible South Island Pied Oystercatcher
between Tuckers Rock and Bundagen Headland, about 15kms south of Coffs Harbour
another photo
Phil Gilmour 5/1 #221633
Sun 4Regent Bowebird, Green Catbird, Spectacled Monarch
Ourimbah RTA Reserve
Male Regent and 2 females feeding on kangaroo apple. This is just past the old generator site. Also attracting Lewin's Honeyeater, Green Catbirds and Silvereye. Male Satin Bowerbird seen nearby. Seen yesterday was a Spectacled Monarch, Black-faced Monarchs, Rufous Fantails, 2 European Blackbird & Bul Buls.
Allan Benson & Alan Morris 4/1 #221596
Red-necked Avocet, Shoveler, Fecked Duck and Pink-eared Ducks
Tuggerah Waste water Treatmnet Plant, Wyong Rd Tuggerah
There are still 32 Red-necked Avocets on the back of the STW, along with 78 Black-winged Stilts, 9 Shovelers, 2 Pink-eared and 2 Freckled Ducks. Black-shouldered Kites and a Swamp Harriers also present as well as about 460 Grey Teal, 120 Hardheads, 80 Hoary-headed Grebes and many Little Grebes plus the usual waterbirds, great birding at present!
Alan Morris 4/1 #221597
Topknot Pigeons
Ferdinand Street, Hunters Hill
4-5 Topknot Pigeons flying and then landing in Liquid Amber tree in our garden around 9 am.
Elisabeth Karplus 4/1 #221599
Black-faced Monarch, Baillon's Crake, Spotless Crake, Spotted Harrier
Pitt Town Lagoon
Highlights from Pitt Town Lagoon this morning were 4 Baillon's Crake, many Spotless Crakes were heard calling but remained hidden in the reeds and a Spotted Harrier cruising over the reeds. What I thought was pretty unusual for Pitt Town was a Black-faced Monarch in the trees on the edge of the lagoon.
michael ronan 4/1 #221602
Whistling Kite
Bay Street, Greenwich, edge of Lane Cove River
A whistling kite flew close to the coastline heading westward at 10.20am this morning. I have not seen this species in this part of the municipality before.
Judy Clark 4/1 #221603
Mangrove Gerygone
Royal National Park--Bonnie Vale
Mangrove Gerygone heard singing from mangroves near the Bonnie Vale/Maianbar bridge this afternoon.
Marc Anderson 4/1 #221611
Regent Honeyeater
Myall Lakes National Park--Mungo Brush
I stumbled across a Regent Honeyeater low in the foliage as I was walking back to my car after a swim at North Broadwater on Mungo Brush Drive (between the Bombah Ferry and Boomeri camping ground) around 1pm. The bird was not calling nor had noticeable leg banding. The bird hung around for 5 minute as I tried to call it in to get a picture on my phone to no avail. It was chased by a Lewin’s Honeyeater and Noisy Friar Bird before disappearing. Best tick I have made this year!
Dr Andrew C M Smith 7/1 #221678
Wonga Pigeon, Eurasian Tree Sparrow
Wagga Wagga Botanical Gardens
1 Wonga Pigeon observed near the little zoo wandering around freely. It had no bands or any sign that it was an escapee bird, and flew up onto a tree when it was approached too closely. According to eBird, there are only a handful or records from North Eastern Victoria and a single 1991 record from Jerilderie which are worth noting as similar records. Two Tree Sparrows were also observed inside the amphitheatre where there are numerous records for them. eBird checklist
Simon Gorta, Julian Teh, Owen Lishmund 13/1 #221779
Sat 3Nankeen Night Heron
Nepean Weir, Penrith
In the nearly eight years of me visiting this area, not once have I seen this bird here. I am sure they are around, but it was a surprise landing of one in a small eucalyptus along the upper part of the walk, which alerted me to its presence. I got some great views, especially as a couple of walkers by flushed it and it descended down to the river from up near the sake brewery where I saw it.
Ákos Lumnitzer 3/1 #221583
Peregrine Falcon
Coutts Crossing Village, SW of Grafton
Two birds, appeared to be adults of the same sex (same size), probably males, in aerial display high to the south of the Village. Circling together then one would rise up stall briefly and fly towards second bird. Both birds presented their talons to each other but no contact was made. This was repeated a few times until the birds moved out of sight in an easterly direction and appeared to be still displaying.
Greg Clancy 3/1 #221585
Lesser Sandplover (2), Wandering Tattler (2)
Boat Harbour, Kurnell
On high tide this morning there were a pair of Lesser Sandplovers and a pair of Wandering Tattlers at Boat Harbour, Kurnell. For Wandering Tattlers see the 2 images for Jan 3 taken by Gary Dunnett in the Further Information link to his Flickr photo album. Further information
Gary Dunnett, Ken Gilmour, Bruce Roubin 3/1 #221592
Grey Goshawk, Regent Bowerbird, Topknot pigeon
Strickland State Forest
One Grey Goshawk flushed from the creek vegetation next to the trail. One Female/imm Regent bowerbird (poor photo attached) and two Topknot Pigeons. Rufous Fantails and Black Faced Monarchs also.
David Vickers 3/1 #221593
Black-necked Stork, Latham's Snipe, Grey Gosdhawk
McPhersons Rd Swamp, Tuggerah
The Black-necked Stork has been present the past 3 days at this site, however this morning (4/1/15) from 600-1000 hrs it has been present along the foreshore off Tuggerah Bay, seen from Geoffrey Rd Chittaway (per Dellas Johnson). Other birds at McPhersons Swamp include 2+ Latham's Snipe, White-necked Heron, Intermediate Egret, Grey Goshawk, Black-shouldered Kite, 2 Red-kneed Dotterel & 2 Chestnut-breasted Mannikin. A Wedge-tailed Eagle & White-throated Needletails were sighted there on 1/1/15
Alan Morris, photo Dellas Johnston 4/1 #221598
Australian Hobby (3)
Erina
Over the last couple of months, I have had almost daily sightings of a pair of Hobbies at the corner of Central Coast Hwy and Terrigal Dr, Erina. They appeared to be using an old Australian Raven nest at the top of a Hoop Pine and today I saw the pair sitting with a fledgling about 8 metres below the nest. This is only the second recorded breeding site for Hobbies on the Central Coast, the other being in an old Raven nest atop the Telstra tower in Wyong in 2012 and 2013.
Nick Carson 7/1 #221682
Square-tailed Kite
Basin View, St Georges Basin, South Coast
adult foraging at tree-top level around houses in Basin View Parade eBird checklist
Andrew Taylor 9/1 #221708
Fri 2Black-necked Stork, Latham's Snipe
McPherson Road Swamp
Swamp very full with limited bird life. Black-necked Stork the stand out bird. 2 Latham's Snipe flushed
Allan Benson 2/1 #221572
Latham's Snipe, Red-rumped Parrot
Tuggerah, Central Coast Wetlands
3 Latham's Snipe flushed. 8 Red-rumped parrots including adults and immatures. Red-rumps are uncommon on the central coast so this is significant breeding record
Allan Benson 2/1 #221573
Red-necked Avocet, Pink-eared Duck
Tuggerah Wastewater Treatment Plant
20+ Avocets still on back pond. Single Pink-eared amongst mass of Hardhead, Grey and Chestnut Teal and Australasian and Hoary-headed Grebe
Allan Benson 2/1 #221574
White-fronted, Painted, Brown Honeyeaters, Major Mitchell's Cockatoo
"The winery", Whitton Stock Route Rd, Binya SF
An early morning visit to this site started with a flock of 12 Major Mitchell's Cockatoos landing in a dead tree beside the car. In the winery block itself, a Brown Honeyeater (rare for the area) and then a White-fronted Honeyeater (even rarer) plus a Painted Honeyeater showed themselves albeit briefly. A group of 8 Turquoise Parrots also flew overhead and 12 Superb Parrots flew over the car as I was driving off. A good start to my 2015 list!
Max O'Sullivan 2/1 #221576
Pacific Baza
Armidale Street, South Grafton
Adult with heavy wing moult gliding north over residential area.
Greg Clancy 3/1 #221586
Pacific Baza
Coutts Crossing Village, SW of Grafton
Baza heard calling in morning. Two observed the day before (01 Jan 15) flying into eucalypts at edge of village near Cemetery.
Greg Clancy 3/1 #221587
Pheasant Coucal
Royal National Park--Mt Bass
One Pheasant Coucal heard calling from low trees adjacent to heath near the south end of the Mt. Bass Fire Trail.
Logan Lalonde 4/1 #221606
possible Rawnsley's Bowerbird (young male)
Border Ranges National Park--Sheepstation Creek
In a group of normal Satin Bowerbirds there was a female-coloured bird with conspicuous yellow primary panels and a more slender and longer appearing bill but with the overall size and jizz of a Satin Bowerbird. Normal Regent Bowerbirds were nearby. As neither female Satin nor female Regent Bowerbirds show yellow wing panels, we believe that this bird was a young male 'Rawnsley's Bowerbird' (Satin x Regent hybrid). A mutant Satin Bowerbird with aberrant primary colouration should have a stouter and shorter bill. So far only adult male 'Rawnsley's Bowerbirds' have been described. So, this observation might be of general interest. Unfortunately, we weren't able to get photographs.
Nikolas Haass & Frank Valckenborgh 6/1 #221664
Superb Lyrebird
North Turramurra
Group of 4 birds foraging for food in undergrowth and leaf litter. 1 male displaying to female.
Narelle Barden 7/1 #221667
Thu 1Black Falcon, Glossy Ibis
Bushells Lagoon, Wilberforce
There were at least six Glossy Ibis at the lagoon and five Whistling Kites were harassing them at various times during mid-afternoon. I suddenly noticed a larger falcon appear from the south and join the kites harassing the waterbirds. The falcon then flew on towards the town of Freemans Reach. Only a poor ID shot was taken of the falcon, but the characteristics of plumage and its flight made ID a snap.
Ákos Lumnitzer 1/1 #221563
Spotted Harrier
Freemans Reach
Adult Spotted Harrier spotted and photographed near corner of Argyle Reach Road and Freemans Reach Road this afternoon. It was interesting to note the harrier's behaviour from a distance, as initially I thought it may have been a Square-tailed Kite. The harrier was hovering over the treetops with feet fully down for a while.
Ákos Lumnitzer 1/1 #221564
Spotted Harrier (I'mmature)
Cornwallis
While I spent time photographing two recently fledged Brown Falcon chicks (one still had down on its head), an immature Spotted Harrier flew over the treetops coming from Bakers Lagoon. Sadly, I had to take shots into the sun, so it is very contrasty, but I still managed some good images of this beautiful young bird. I believe there may be at least one nesting pair in the Nepean-Hawkesbury region, as for the last two or more years I have been seeing young birds (photos taken too) as well as many adults. However, it would be difficult to locate a nest if there were one.
Ákos Lumnitzer 1/1 #221565
Satin Flycatcher
Pope's Glen track, Blue Mountains National Park, Blackheath
Two active nests found 70 metres apart along the Pope's Glen track. At least six adult Satin Flycatchers (and one nestling) seen along the track.
Mark Hocking 1/1 #221568
Caspian Tern
Stockton Sandspit
Oranged flagged bird "77" spotted 9 am on Jan 1. Can't find anywhere to report on the net. Silver on other leg ? Victorian. (Moderator's Note: Go onto the Australian Wader Study Group Website, there is a option there to report siightings.AKM)
Michael Rutkowski 6/1 #221661
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