| Sun 31 |
Spotted Harrier
Seaford Swamp
In an otherwise disappointing survey (part of the swamp best for birds had completely dried up since December) Spotted Harrier seen at first on the ground in a paddock with some prey and then later in flight. By amount of feathers missing in wing and overall plumage, was thought to be a first year immature that was still moulting from juvenile plumage.
Sean Dooley, Andrew Silcocks 2/2 #12365 |
|
 Brush Bronzewing
Campbells Rd, Old Distillery Dam, Kamarooka Forest
These birds are extremely flighty so it is better to walk in to the dams from Campbells Rd if you want to get a photo. Observed in the shade of a tree on one of the dam banks. Day was about 35c time about 2.00pm. Campbells Rd crosses the Bendigo Tennyson Rd. Leaving Huntly it is about 1/2 way along that road to the Bendigo Raywood Rd.
Greg McKay 1/2 #12364 |
|
 Painted Button-quail, Mallee Ringnecks
Terrick Terrick picnic ground near Mitiamo
In an hours birding (it was too hot to do any more 35C at midday) we were lucky enough to see 2 Mallee Ringnecks, 1 Painted Button-quail, 3 Southern Whitefaces, a flock of about 10 Varied Sittellas and at least 10 Rainbow Bee-eaters. Also had a good sighting of a Wedge-tailed Eagle sitting on a telphone pole just out of Mitiamo.
Greg McKay 1/2 #12363 |
|
 Tawny Frogmouth
Bangholme , Greenpatch Drive
A pair of Tawny Frogmouths sitting in the tree at approx 5:00 pm, motionless, trying to imitate a trunk. Further information
Frank Arnold 1/2 #12352 |
|
 Freckled Duck
Western Treatment Plant
Adult male caught in flight 85WB Lagoon. I found this among photos I took of ducks after I got home! Shoot first ask questions later?
Kevin Bartram 31/1 #12351 |
|
Little Corella
Bellevue and Munro Streets - Coburg West.
Upon visiting my in laws today guess who also dropped in for a visit, The Gilpin Park Corellas! Just as Trevor Manley has previously reported, I was awoken at 6.00pm this afternoon (from my siesta) by a noisy flock of about 50 Little Corella's. Stepping outside in the most welcomed rain, and walking along the street, I saw the birds feeding in Eucalypts and in small Conifers across the street. Birds were perched on roof tops eating on small cones and were flying around the area up until 7.00pm this evening. Sorry, but I had no camera with me!
Con Baltas 31/1 #12350 |
|
 Little Curlew
Western Treatment Plant
2 Little Curlews on western side of Austin Lagoon. Bit of a puzzle when I first saw the first bird with shelducks, head was tucked in, looked very strange & buffy & I couldn't work out what would have a pale central crown stripe, but when it stuck it's bill out it was short & slightly downcurved, I knew it was a Little Curlew. Later saw another bird with it. Unfortunately too closely associated with a flock of nervous shelducks, so flew away when I tried to get photos, but got identifiable shots of perched birds & better ones in flight. Had a Wood Sandpiper in south-west corner of Austin Rd. Nice views of 2 Spotless Crake on north side of Little River Ford. Too dull for good photos.
Kevin Bartram 31/1 #12349 |
|
Powerful Owl
Shepherds Bush
Single bird seen on path between Shepherds Bush and golf course, in early evening. Full list
Bruce Wedderburn 31/1 #12346 |
|
Fairy Martin
Royal Botanic Gardens, Melbourne
1 seen flying with a group of Welcome Swallows. IDed by light head, square tail and white rump. Full list
Paul Dodd & Ruth Woodrow 31/1 #12333 |
|
 Speckeld Warbler
Warby ranges near Glenrowan
Adult sighted in same place as dead juvenile found January 18 - in our backyard near bird bath. Now feel sure of original sighting.
Jan Osmotherly 31/1 #12329 |
| Sat 30 |
Spotless Crake
Banyule Flat
One feeding in open at grotty pond in full sunlight late morning.
Richard Loyn 7/2 #12414 |
|
Sooty Owl, Black-faced Monarch, Pilotbird, Satin Bowerbird, Scarlet Honeyeater, etc
Cabbage Tree Palms reserve, near Marlo.
Sooty Owl heard and then seen after dark, 3 or 4 BFMonarchs calling and seen, 2 Pilotbirds heard, 1 seen next to creek, lots of Scarlet and Crescent Honeyeaters. 3 Satin Bowerbirds close to a bower, S.Lyrebird, Rose Robin, Rufous Fantail, Brown Gerygone, Azure Kingfisher, Olive-backed Oriole, etc !. Also many Grey-headed Flying Fox and Yellow-bellied Glider.
Simon Starr 1/2 #12354 |
|
Southern Emu-wren, Turquoise Parrot, Powerful Owl, White-throated Nightjar, Wonga Pigeon, seabirds
Cape Conran
Camped a week at Cape Conran coastal park. Seabirds from the cape included numbers of Fluttering Shearwater, and 3 seperate Jaegers, 2 Arctics and a probable Pomarine. Wonga Pigeon strolling in the campground, Powerful Owl encountered whilst spotlighting along the Old Coast Road. Pair of Turquoise Parrots also along Old Coast Road. Scarlet Honeyeaters, Large-billed Scrubwren and Rufous Fantail in coastal woodland, White throated Nightjars seen along Old Coast road and also on Cabbage tree Conran road. Also Black-faced Cormorant, Sooty Oystercatcher, Azure Kingfisher.
Simon Starr 1/2 #12353 |
|
Blue-billed Duck
Hamilton Sewerage Farm
About 6 birds seen on ponds, at least one male bird looking fantastic with sky-blue bill. Also lots of Aust' Shovelers, Pinks-ears and Aust' Shelduck. see Full list
Samantha Greiner 30/1 #12324 |
|
Scarlet Honeyeater and Little Eagle
Bend of Islands
Male Scarlet Honeyeater seen 30/1, female seen 28/1. Same location as reported by others on 9/12/09. Little Eagle observed, flying high, on 28/1/10. Bend of Islands is 33km ne of Melbourne.
Frank Pierce 30/1 #12322 |
|
 Lewin's Rail, Spotless Crake, Australian Spotted Crake
Mt St Joseph pond, Altona
Between 7 and 7.30 this morning I had several views of Lewin's Rails opposite the south platform. First a brief view of one adult, later a much longer view of an adult which was then joined briefly by another. A little while after, a juvenile, which I managed to photograph in flight as it departed to the left.
Then Paul and Ruth arrived, and after about 40 minutes a bird appeared in the reeds opposite then flew to just below the platform.
Spotted Crakes were in view most of the time, and at least two Spotless Crakes appeared from time to time. An escaped canary was an odd sight sitting in the reeds.
Peter Shute, Paul Dodd, Ruth Woodrow 30/1 #12317 |
| Fri 29 |
Brolga
5 km SW of Stockyard Hill
Flock of 9 birds flying east, observed from Eurambeen-Streatham Rd.
Geoff Park 29/1 #12313 |
| Thu 28 |
Common Koel
Metung, East Gippsland
One male heard 3 times on two evenings/nights in Metung township. Called loudly over about 2-3 minute period and gave both unusual "woor woor" followed by classis "cooeee" call.
Jamie Matthew 2/2 #12366 |
|
Baillon's Crake
Lake Wendouree, Ballarat
While searching (unsuccessfully) for reported Ruff, we looked down momentarily from our scopes to see the crake casually strolling by. Also 3-4 Wood Sandpiper.
Mark Bennett and David Richardson 28/1 #12311 |
|
Black-winged Stilts
Bosses Swamp - Princess Hwy Nicholson (East Gippsland)
Very distinctive flock of 25 BWS feeding and preening in shallows of Bosses.
Faye Bedford 28/1 #12305 |
| Wed 27 |
Musk Lorikeet
Dendy Park, Brighton
Hundreds of Musk Lorikeets congregating in the trees all over the park at sunset
Frank Arnold 28/1 #12306 |
|
Crested Shrike-tit
Bushfield, north of Warrnambool
Displaying crest while searching beneath bark of dead eucalypt.
Lisette Mill 27/1 #12294 |
|
 Nankeen Night-Heron
Shiel Place, North Melbourne VIC 3051
Juvenile seen perching 7:30-8pm in fruit tree in small back yard off the laneway. Melways ref 2A F6. Site is approx. 1.35 km (in direct line) from the Zoo in Royal Park, where it is understood there is a small colony of these birds (aka Rufous Night Heron). Heron flew off after being hassled by Common Mynas.
Kaye Oddie 27/1 #12293 |
|
Cockatiel
Croajingolong
2 Cockatiels were seen flying over bushland along Mallacoota Rd near Double Creek. This may be a first record for Croajingolong and east Gippsland.
Tim Dolby 27/1 #12291 |
|
Nankeen Night-Heron
Mt St Joseph Pond, Altona
There has been a juvenile Nankeen Night-Heron in the pond for at least the last few days. I've only ever seen Night-Herons roosting before, I assume because they feed at night, but this one has been moving around in the pond in the daytime, so I thought it was a bittern at first. But, apart from having a dark crown, it isn't as timid, and takes its time slinking away.
This morning I saw it momentarily, deep in the reeds as it passed a gap. If I hadn't seen it before, I might still be wondering if I'd seen a bittern.
Peter Shute 27/1 #12284 |
| Tue 26 |
Banded Lapwing
Paddock near Terrick Terrick. OnKow Swamp Mitiamo Rd. East side. 1 Km nth Jungaburra Rd intersection
40 plus Banded Lapwing in paddock. In afternoon many sitting in the shade of the timber fence posts, very visable from the road.
Barbara Burns 29/1 #12312 |
|
 Superb Parrot, Grey-crowned Babbler
Barmah Forest (Barmah Lakes)
Superb Parrot: 2 - 1 at end of Trickey's Lane (at management vehicles gate), 1 on Lyles Road (off Trickey's Lane). Grey-crowned Babbler: 5-6 on Lyles Road (off Trickey's Lane). Full list
Paul Dodd & Ruth Woodrow 27/1 #12300 |
|
Grey Plover
Nelson Estuary
One Grey Plover observed on the sand bar below the Estuary Lookout carpark.
Chris Connelly 27/1 #12285 |
|
Wedge-tailed Eagle
Balnarring race course
Two wedgetailed eagles soaring over Australia Day picnic races at Balnarring. Very appropriate for the day!
S. King 27/1 #12283 |
|
 Black Honeyeater, White-bellied Cuckoo-shrike, White-throated Needletail
Bailieston
Counted 4 male (some moulting from immature into adult male plumage), & 3 brown birds at Bailieston Quarry. Also had light morph WBCS fly over. c20 White-throated Needletails flew north just west of Quarry.
Kevin Bartram 26/1 #12281 |
|
Common Myna
Uniting Church grounds Hamilton (opposite KFC & McDonalds!)
I have heard and hope this was not true but bird has been sighted today, very unaustralian! Removal of this individual will be looked into, its bad enough having sparrows & starlings taking all the small bird space in town with out these bullies moving in!
Samantha Greiner per Marlene Greiner 26/1 #12277 |
|
 Lewin's Rail, Spotless Crake, Australian Spotted Crake
Mt St Joseph pond, Altona
Between 7.00 and 9.00 this morning I had short views of what I think were three individual Lewin's Rails, and heard what may have been a fourth. After an hour's wait at the south platform, during which time I had several views of at least two Spotted Crakes and a Spotless Crake, an adult and a juvenile Lewin's suddenly tumbled out of the reeds opposite, ran in and out then disappeared. It appeared that the juvenile was chasing the adult.
A short while later, the juvenile appeared for long enough to get a photo, and then the adult, which may have been a female, as it had a fairly pale red head. A little while later, I heard another from the east end, but can't be certain it wasn't one of those same two birds.
15 minutes later at the north platform, I had a brief view of another adult. This one's head looked darker red to me, so may have been a male. I've attached photos of each.
A Latham's Snipe was flushed by Swamphens, and circled then landed at the east end. A Nankeen Night-Heron was seen wading down that end on Sunday morning.
Peter Shute 26/1 #12275 |
|
White-throated Gerygone
Langwarrin
White-throated Gerygone heard calling then spotted foraging among Eucalypts for insects, some of the Eucs flowering. A new record for my list in this area.
Ash Herrod 26/1 #12273 |
| Mon 25 |
White-throated Needletail, Spotted Quail-thrush
Bright district
White-throated Needletail: 20+ circling over Clearview (lookout overlooking Bright) at dusk. Spotted Quail-thrush: 5 on Demon Ridge Track between 7:00am and 9:00am. Full list
Paul Dodd & Ruth Woodrow 27/1 #12299 |
|
Buff-banded Rail, Rufous Fantail
Jumping Creek
One buff-banded rail seen along the creek near Brysons rd as well as a few Rufous fantails
Matthew Vinicombe 26/1 #12274 |
|
 Little Corella, Long Billed Corella & Sulphur Crested Cockatoo
Pascoe Vale (my home), Sherwood Receptions & Long Forest nature Reserve
Trevor Manley's Little Corella's are congregating with Long Billed Corella's and Sulphur Crested Cockatoos, (see photo) and are forming huge noisy flocks of many hundreds of birds, making for a spectacular sight. I have been able to track them down at two horse ranches, one at Sherwood Receptions on Somerton road (opposite the Woodlands Historic Park), and over at Long Forest nature reserve, on long forest road. At these two locations the birds come in to feed on spilt grain & to drink at the water holding horse troughs, late in the afternoon. From here, the Little Corella's disperse off into smaller groups and can often be seen flying over Melton, Strathmore and Pascoevale (see photo), as reported by Trevor. I don't know if the Brunswick birds are part of this same group?
Con Baltas 25/1 #12269 |
|
Song Thrush
Lavers Hill
A single Song Thrush on manicured lawns on edge of town. Seems to be a little out of range?
Graeme Brown 25/1 #12257 |
| Sun 24 |
 Budgie, Masked W/swallow, Diamond F/tail, Painted & Lt Button-Quail, Stubble Quail & Plains Wanderer
Terrick Terrick National Park
The Field Naturalists Club of Victoria did a fauna survey at Terrick Terrick NP over the Australia Day long weekend. Highlights among the birds were 100's of White-browed Woodswallows with a number of Masked Woodswallows. Separate flocks of Budgies, numbering up to 20, Diamond Firetails and Painted Button-Quail all seen throughout the forested areas of the Park. While Plains Wanderers ( male and female) seen in separate paddocks and Little Button-Quail recorded in separate paddocks including a male with four young.
John Harris and members of FNCV Fauna Survey Group 31/1 #12332 |
|
Turquoise Parrot, Speckled Warbler, Western Gerygone, Leaden Flycatcher, Black-eared Cuckoo, White-t
Chiltern Mt Pilot National Park (Chiltern)
Turquoise Parrot: 4 - Bartley's Block. Speckled Warbler: Bartley's Block. Western Gerygone: Bartley's Block. Leaden Flycatcher: Skeleton Hill Road. Black-eared Cuckoo: Heard - Bartley's Block. White-throated Gerygone: Bartley's Block. White-browed Babbler: Cyanide Dam (Honeyeater Picnic Ground). Full list
Paul Dodd & Ruth Woodrow 27/1 #12298 |
|
 Firetails, Turquoise Parrots and WTNTs
Cape Conran area
A weekend trip to Cape Conran, Cabbagetree Palms Res and Yeerung River area gave a total bird count of over 100 species including a flock of 12+ Turquoise Parrots on Conran-Cabbagetree Rd, Beautiful Firetails at Yeerung River bridge and 800 to 1000 WTNTs and a Spotted Quail-thrush near Cabbage tree Palms Res, Scarlet Honeyeaters everywhere and a dark phase White-bellied Cuckoo-shrike near Bruthen.
Jenny Spry, Helen O'Donnel, Barb Williams and Joy Tansey 26/1 #12276 |
|
Eastern Curlew
Shallow Inlet (east of Wilsons Promontory)
Fished for 5 hours at Shallow Inlet and saw dozens of eastern curlews flying off as the tide rose. On the sand flats, hundreds of small waders at low tide. Didn't have the binoculars so couldn't ID them, suspect red capped plovers. Flocks of yellow tailed black cockatoos in the coastal banksias.
James Dredge 25/1 #12267 |
|
Little Corella
Strathmore
There has been a substantial flock (30-50 birds total , but often travelling in multiple smaller groups of 4-10) flying over Strathmore morning and evening for the last two weeks or so. Heading pretty much due north in the mornings (and acting as an unwanted alarm clock), then south in the evenings.
I doubt this is the same group reported as resident from Gilpin Park, Brunswick, last week, as the travel directions don't fit. My surmise from their flying directions is that these birds might roost at Woodlands Park, North Essendon ( which is home to a big flock of Sulphur-Crested cockies also), and spend their days either on Moonee Ponds Creek or Northern Golf Course - maybe Con Baltas might have some obs on the latter conjecture?
Trevor Manley 25/1 #12266 |
|
 Cockatiel, Brown Quail
Beach Rd, east of Avalon Airport
Thanks to Alan and Hazel for pointing the 6 Cockatiels out to me. Thought I'd throw in my photo. Also flushed 3 Brown Quails at Beach Rd gate in evening.
Kevin Bartram 25/1 #12265 |
|
Scarlet Honeyeater
Yellingbo Nature Conservation Reserve
Last month heard a single Scarlet HE only. Today saw and heard approx. 8 birds spread throughout the reserve. Very active and loud calling. Elsewhere watched a single eucalypt tree over a 10-15min period and counted 13 different bird species passing over it. I think that qualifies as a Hot Spot/Tree. Full list
Jackson Airey 25/1 #12263 |
|
 Cockatiels
Western Treatment Plant, Werribee
A group of 6 Cockatiels were seen in flowering gums on Beach Road just past the apiary site opposite the Banded Lapwing paddock ( which we were able to show to Kevin Bartram who also photographed them). Possibly a family group, preening each other and dropping into the adjacent paddock to feed. A highlight of another good day at the plant.
Alan and Hazel Veevers 24/1 #12254 |
|
Ruff (1)and Wood Sandpiper(9)
Lake Wendouree, Ballarat
Superb views of an amazing 9 wood sands in south east corner of the lake and a very obvious Ruff with Sharp-tailed sands. Both new species for Lake Wendouree where conditions are great for waders at present but drying out rapidly. You will need to wade out to see Ruff which today was about 100m from central south side. Water is not above gumboot level.
Murray grant,Roger Thomas,Ian and Amanda Ashton. 24/1 #12253 |
|
Pink Robin
Forest Road, Bunyip State Park
2 Females, one juvenile
Wendy McWilliams 24/1 #12251 |
|
White-bellied Sea-Eagle
Tarnook, near Benalla
Second year/sub adult Sea Eagle on a large dam along Basin Road. Many unsuccessful swoops mostly on Shelduck and domestic Geese escapees. When it did land it was seriously harassed by Willie Wagtails.
Bill Morecraft 24/1 #12249 |
|
 Zebra Finch
Nagambie
A flock of about 25 Zebra Finches with quite a few Juveniles and mixed in with them 4 or 5 European Goldfinches.
The birds were located at the intersectioon of Ballantynes and MacDonalds road. Going out from Nagambie on the left hand side there is a Shearing shed, dam and some hay stacked right at the crossroads and this is where the birds were located. the flock was observed here on 2 occasions 2 hrs apart.
Greg mckay 24/1 #12245 |
|
Song Thrush, Latham's Snipe, Australian Spotted Crake
Tirhatuan Wetlands Conservation Reserve
Song Thrush: Two birds, possibly three seen in fruiting bushes. Latham's Snipe: Two birds seen in recently exposed mud. Australian Spotted Crake: Single bird close to path, also in recently exposed mud. Also had a Peregrine Falcon flying overhead. Full list
Bruce Wedderburn 24/1 #12244 |
|
Wedge-tailed Eagle
Laverton Native Grassland, cnr Princes Hwy & Kororoit Creek Rd.
A pair of Wedge-tailed Eagle seen at first light perched on fence along edge of grasslands, whilst en route to WTP.
Steve Davidson & Andrew Hurnard 24/1 #12242 |
|
Weebill, Scarlet Honeyeater
The 100 Acres Reserve, Park Orchards
Weebill: 2 seen calling from a Red Box. Scarlet Honeyeater: 3, including a female feeding a juvenile. Full list
Richard & Margaret Alcorn 24/1 #12241 |
| Sat 23 |
Red-kneed Dotterel, Sharp-tailed Sandpiper
Morley Swamp, Gippsland Lakes
A flock of approximately 50 Sharp-tailed Sandpiper and 6 Red-kneed Dotterels were feeding in Morley Swamp located between Lake Wellington and Lake Victoria. This is the first time I have seen Red-kneed Dotterel in the area after frequent visits over a period of well over 10 years.
Andrew McCutcheon 28/1 #12308 |
|
Red-browed Treecreeper, Satin Flycatcher
Mount Samaria State Park
Red-browed Treecreeper: Two heard, one seen. Satin Flycatcher: Female. Full list
Paul Dodd & Ruth Woodrow 27/1 #12296 |
|
Wood Sandpiper
Western Treatment Plant, Werribee
Single bird on lagoon near Beach road gate.
Scott Baker, Peter Lansley 24/1 #12240 |
|
 Blue-billed Duck, Clamorous Reed-Warbler, Little Grassbird and Common Bronzewing.
Karkarook Metro Park (Kingston)
Displaying Blue Billed Ducks are a joy to watch. Superb Fairy-wrens actively feeding around the Lakes. Flushed 1 Latham`s Snipe from the reeds, along with an unidentified Crake. The now common, calling Little Grass Birds, can be heard around the various small lakes. Common Bronzewing Pigeon
feeding out in the open, along with large feeding groups of Rainbow Lorikeet and Long Billed Corella. Little Pied Cormorant drying its wings, in the evening sun.
Con Baltas 23/1 #12235 |
|
Southern Emu-wren, Olive Whistler, Blue-winged Parrot
Buttongrass Trail, Bunyip State Park
Male & female Emu-Wrens observed in usual spot approx 2/3 around loop walk. Olive Whistler seen approx 1/3 around & 3 x BW Parrot seen near intersection of Link & Camp Roads.
Also saw 2 x rehabilitated/reintroduced koalas we think may have been rescued from burnt areas last year (orange ear tags).
Claire, Ziggy & Eva Wolinski, Barbara & Philip Richardson 23/1 #12233 |
|
Painted Honeyeater
Killawarra Forest
Single bird seen along Matamia Road
Bill Morecraft 23/1 #12231 |
|
Sacred Kingfisher
Kororoit Creek, More Park, Ardeer
Single bird observed in streamside vegetation near childrens playground (Melways 25 K10)
Mel Mitchell 23/1 #12230 |
|
Australian Pelican
Western Freeway, Melton.
Driving from Taylors Lakes to Bacchus Marsh,at 12:26hrs I observed a lone Australian Pelican flying low above the western side on - ramp on Coburns Road at the Western Freeway at Melton. Heading south towards the Exford Weir where they have been recorded previously.
David Whelan 23/1 #12225 |
|
Brolga, Magpie Goose
Reedy Lake, Bellarine Peninsula
Two adults & an imm in paddock just north of the lake. (3 birds seen & photographed & reported at same location 25/12/09). 15+ Magpie Geese at the lake edge.
Glen White 23/1 #12224 |
| Fri 22 |
 Brown Falcon, Little Eagle, Australian Hobby, White Browed & Dusky Woodswallows White Winged Triller
Woodlands Historic Park (Providence road side)
Excellent birding is currently being offered at the Woodlands Historic Park, (North West of Melbourne). The best birding at the moment appears to be on either side of Providence road, with 4 resident Brown Falcon patrolling the open grasslands, a calling Little Eagle circling above the Aboriginal cemetery and a whole host of smaller woodland birds feeding young, including White Winged Triller, Brown-headed Honeyeater and family groups of Woodswallows. Crested Shrike-Tit, Crimson Rosella, Red-browed Firetails and calling Shinning Bronze-Cuckoo, also present.
Con Baltas 23/1 #12234 |
|
Broad-billed Sandpiper
Western Treatment Plant, Werribee
Single Broad-billed Sandpiper on mudflat east of 145W drain outlet (which we were able to show to Will Steele, Richard Loyn, Danny Rogers and 2 other people). In 106 species for the day best of the others included Red Knot (30+), Bar-tailed Godwit (about 10), Black-tailed Godwit (4), Glossy Ibis (2), Great Crested Grebe (3), Buff-banded Rail (1), A. Spotted Crake (3), Black Falcon (1), Peregrine Falcon (1), Little Eagle (1), Dusky Woodswallow (2) and tens of thousands of Ducks (but no Freckled).
John Barkla, Fred Smith & Wendy McWilliams 22/1 #12221 |
|
Stubble Quail
Royal Park - native grassland
At least two Stubble Quail heard calling then one flushed in the central grassland area around 8am today.
Nicole Spillane 22/1 #12216 |
| Thu 21 |
Pied Butcherbird
Portarligton Beachside Resort
I was watching the tennis in my caravan when I heard what I suspected was some type of butcherbird calling directly in the pine tree above my caravan. Upon closer inspection it took flight and was able to positively id it as a Pied Butcherbird.
A Grey Butcherbird was seen and photographed at the same location this time in 2009.
David Whelan 23/1 #12227 |
|
Little Corella
Gilpin Park, West Brunswick
A flock of around 50 Little Corella turned about a week ago and arrive every evening in this area around 6pm. Maybe the same flock that was in the area about the same time in 2008.
Nicole Spillane and Paul Jacobson 21/1 #12210 |
|
Black Honeyeater
Deer Park (western Melbourne)
In escarpment scrub and plantings of the Kororoit Creek, Esmond Road, Deer Park, near the footbridge to Rockbank Road. Definitely 1 male, perhaps 2 birds. Various flowering eucalypts in the area - few other honeyeaters or lorikeets. Further information
Lawrie Conole 21/1 #12207 |
|
Sacred Kingfisher
Numurkah
Seen in the garden on our property near Sampsons Rd Numurkah ,a long way from permanent water,given all our dams are dry ! Maybe a young bird looking for habitat and stopped for a rest and a feed .
Paul Huckett 21/1 #12206 |
| Wed 20 |
Barbary Dove, Common Sandpiper, Singing Honeyeater
kororoit creek estuary
one lone Barbary Dove at the angling club, apparently the last one left, also 20 Crested Pigeons, several Spotted Turtle-Doves and ~50 House Sparrows. (And the number of sparrows was more surprising to me than the number of Crested Pigeons: haven't things changed?). A Comon Sandpiper beside creek, a few Sharp-tailed Sandpipers in nearby saltmarsh. Also Singing Honeyeater - pair with young.
Richard Loyn 7/2 #12417 |
|
Collared Sparrowhawk
Newport Lakes
a male attacked a common myna and then red wattlebird in shrubs
Richard Loyn 7/2 #12416 |
|
Glossy Ibis, Red-kneed Dotterel, Black-fronted Dotterel, Latham's Snipe
Bird Hide, Edithvale Wetlands
Also present Black-winged Stilt with young, Whiskered Terns, Grey and Chestnut Teal, Black Duck, Shoveler, Black Swan with cygnets, White-faced and White-necked Herons . . .
David Clark 21/1 #12211 |
|
Common Sandpiper
Western Treatment Plant, Werribee
While leading a Melbourne Water advertised outing on a route they had chosen through some areas not open to birders, I saw 2 Common Sandpipers at the east end of the 115E lagoons. Other good birds for a half day outing were Black Falcon, Red Knot (5), Marsh Sandpiper (11), Bar-tailed Godwit (20+) and White-winged Black Tern (10+).
John Barkla 21/1 #12204 |
|
White-throated Needletail
Montmorency
A pair seen circling over council-owned bushland reserve off Rattray Rd, near the bowls club, around 3.30pm
Ben Darlow 20/1 #12202 |
|
Blue-winged Parrot, Red-browed Treecreeper, Varied Sittella
Bunyip State Park (various locations within)
Can confirm earlier report of BW Parrot sighting at Bunyip, plus also RB Treecreepers & Varied Sittellas. Other usual suspects seen, however did note that lately Yellow Faced Honeyeaters are very abundant as are the Needletails previously noted by other birders.
Claire & Ziggy Wolinski 20/1 #12201 |
| Tue 19 |
Dollarbird, Peregrine Falcon
Tambo Upper - Rodwell Road
A Dollarbird giving a Peregrine what for, chasing raptor away from large trees where DB’s have been heard every day for past four weeks. Possible nesting occurring.
Faye Bedford 20/1 #12198 |
|
Plumed Whistling-Duck
Peechelba (NW of Wangaratta)
Approximately 50 birds seen roosting besides a large dam.
Michael Ramsey 19/1 #12192 |
|
Red-backed Kingfisher, Spotted Harrier
Rutherglen
Red-backed Kingfishers along Great Southern Road have bred successfully. The pair was seen this morning with three young birds, one of which begged for food while perched on powerlines. It was fed a grasshopper or some other insect the adult caught from the adjacent paddock. The juveniles are much duller than the adults, have some mottling on their breast and have a slightly shorter tail and bill. A Spotted Harrier cruising over nearby stubble was also nice to see.
Michael Ramsey 19/1 #12191 |
|
Budgerigar
Chiltern
Over a dozen birds were seen along Wenkes Road, just south of the railway underpass.
Michael Ramsey 19/1 #12190 |
| Mon 18 |
 Speckled Warbler (juvenile)
Foot of Warby Ranges - near Glenrowan
Found dead in backyard 2 or 3 metres from birdbath. Very hot day. Similar bird sighted 1 week prior here. Difficult to identify as no photos of juvenile speckled warblers in identification books we have. Occasional adults seen within 800 metres in past 10 yrs but rarely over past 3 or 4.
Glen Scholfield 30/1 #12321 |
|
Black Honeyeater
Longerenong College, near Horsham
Male flying along avenue of pines after apparently being disturbed by a group of Yellow Thornbills around 8.45pm. Heard calling 10 minutes later some 50 metres further down the avenue. Plenty of flowering eucalypts around the campus at present.
Dale Tonkinson 19/1 #12189 |
| Sun 17 |
 Little Corella
Lakes Entrance township
Three Little Corella seen on the 14th and 17th Jan in town feeding on banksia seeds on ground. Not sure if this is unusual but listed as rare on EGBOC birdlist. Also Scarlet Honeyeaters still abundant around Lakes Entrance north arm and Lake Tyers with many immature males as well as adults sighted and heard throughout area.
Anthea Stubbs 21/1 #12208 |
|
 Buff-banded Rail
Begola Wetlands, Ocean Grove
Buff-banded Rail showing well, late afternoon beneath pedestrian bridge, western end of Begola Wetlands, Ocean Grove.
Ashley Herrod 18/1 #12188 |
|
Spotted Harrier
Ceres [Geelong]
gliding very low over cropped paddock
Rodney Long 18/1 #12186 |
|
White-browed Woodswallow
Strathewen
50+ White-browed Woodswallows including juveniles (one found dead on the road) in a flock along Chad's Creek Rd Strathewen. Also several White-winged Trillers in the same area.
Joy & Michael Pagon 17/1 #12179 |
|
Satin Flycatcher
Greens Bush, Mornington Peninsula National Park
Satin Flycatcher late afternoon, male came quite close. Also spotted 2 Wedge-tailed Eagles, one landed on a grassy hill opposite. Other sightings were the Black-faced Cuckoo-shrike, Grey Fantail and Laughing Kookaburra.
Colin & Carol Maddock 17/1 #12178 |
|
Spotted Harrier, Banded Lapwing
Lake Tyrell
Highlights of a very, very windy visit to Lake Tyrell. Harrier quartering over stubble fields beside the lake Full list
Tim Bawden 17/1 #12174 |
| Sat 16 |
Turquoise parrot
East Yeerung Track, just north of Yeerung Gorge
Lone male startled from undergrowth whilst cycling along East Yeerung Track, Cape Conran Coastal Park.
Peter Neyland 20/1 #12199 |
|
White-throated Needletail
Bunyip State Park
12-15 seen over Link Rd, Bunyip SP, between 10-11am. First I've seen this season in the Greater Melbourne Region. Also there 2 Olive Whistler, Southern Emu-wren, Blue-winged Parrot, etc. Full list
Steven Davidson - The Melbourne Birder 16/1 #12166 |
|
Pectoral Sandpiper (2), Australasian Darter, Black Falcon
Western Treatment Plant, Werribee
Pectoral Sandpiper: 1 - Lagoon immediately after Beach Road gate, 1 - Walshes Lagoon. Australasian Darter: Flew across Little River towards Lake Borrie. Black Falcon: Over Beach Road. Full list
Paul Dodd, Bill Moorhead, Jack Moorhead & Karen Blake 16/1 #12165 |
| Fri 15 |
White-throated Needletails, Scarlet Honeyeaters, Square-tailed Kite
Cabbage Tree Palms Reserve
Notable sightings from the monthly survey within the CTPR included 45+ White-throated Needletails, 27 Scarlet Honeyeaters ( feeding on flowering E. Botyroides ), 9 Black-faced Monarchs, 2 Red-browed Treecreepers and a Square-tailed Kite. A juvenile platypus lazily feeding in the pool directly below the creek crossing capped off a pleasant morning's walk through this site.
Len Axen 16/1 #12167 |
|
 Chestnut-rumped Heathwren, Black Honeyeater
Bailieston Quarry
Inspired by the book Where to See Birds in Victoria, I stopped at the quarry at Bailieston and was inundated with birds for 15 minutes (10:30am). The surprise was the Chestnut-rumped Heathwren (2) appearing only a few metres away, followed almost immediately by Black Honeyeater (1) and Diamond Firetail (2).
Iian Denham 16/1 #12156 |
|
Long-toed Stint
Western Treatment Plant, Werribee
One Long-toed Stint at the Western Conservation Lagoons. Other birds of interest were one Golden Plover at Borrow Pits and a total of 65 Cape Barren Geese throughout the treatment plant. One Wood Sandpiper sighted where previously reported. High numbers (51) of Banded Lapwing at Beach Road.
Maarten Hulzebosch 16/1 #12152 |
|
Whiskered Tern
Lake Hamilton beach, Hamilton, Victoria
raising young, possible nested on sit? Full list
Samantha Greiner 15/1 #12151 |
|
Cape Barren Goose
Ballarat to Clunes Road
Six cape barren geese were in a paddock close to the main road leading from Ballarat to Clunes. They were approximately 15 kms from Ballarat.
Gary Oliver 15/1 #12149 |
| Thu 14 |
 Red-capped Robin
Waterholes
One subadult male observed at Waterholes Guest House, approx 25 km N of Bairnsdale. An uncommon visitor to East Gippsland, and a first record for this locality. Attached photo by Diane Pearson (visiting UK birder). Other notable observations include: Cicadabird (male calling), Horsefield's Bronze Cuckoo, Scarlet Honeyeaters.
Chris Healey, Max Markey, Diane Pearson, Mike Pearson (per Chris Healey) 14/1 #12145 |
|
Baillon's Crake
Macleod Morass, near Bairnsdale
Was trying yet again to spot a Reed-warbler at this site (I can hear them but haven't seen one) when the crake walked out onto some bent reeds. It was there for about a minute before going back into the reeds. Can't find it on the EGBOC list so I assume it's not a common bird in the area. The Reed-warbler still eludes me...
Aileen Collyer 14/1 #12140 |
| Wed 13 |
Spotted Nightjar
Roadside west of Boort
A Nightjar , presumably Spotted, glided across the road about 20 kms west of Boort as I drove home around dusk. This roadside has mallee vegetation only around 20 metres wide, with no bushland areas nearby. There was an irrigation channel nearby also.
Simon Starr 16/1 #12168 |
|
 Cattle egret
Banyule wetlands
In resplendent breeding plumage, but all alone in a swamp ... life ain't easy. Lots of Aust. grebe families too, pair of nankeen night-herons.
Peter Bennet 13/1 #12135 |
| Tue 12 |
Turquoise Parrot and Buff-banded Rail
Bunyip State Park
On Tuesday morning we recorded breeding Turquoise Parrots (adult male feeding young fledgling) and a Buff-banded rail.
Bruce Quinn, Mike Harrison and Clint Schipper 17/1 #12175 |
|
Laughing Kookaburra
Suburban Garden, Kew, nr. Boroondara Cemetery
Stayed on a low branch observing the garden - perhaps checking out a huge pile of timber from a demolition for snakes.
First Kookaburra in our garden in our 35 years. They would also be the first snakes. Remained for approximately 10 minutes.
Vivian Campbell 12/1 #12126 |
|
Little Lorikeet
Fairhope (12 km N of Bairnsdale)
3 Little Lorikeets in flowering Gippsland Grey Gum by Nicholson River. First record for locality in the 6.5 years we have been here.
Chris & Felicity Healey 12/1 #12124 |
|
Beautful Firetail, Southern Emu-wren, Brush Bronzewing, Blue-winged Parrot, Striated Fieldwren
Cape Liptrap Coastal Park
Beautful Firetail, Southern Emu-wren, Brush Bronzewing, Blue-winged Parrot, Striated Fieldwren - all seen within an hour in coastal Heath at Cape Liptrap
Greg Oakley 12/1 #12121 |
|
Painted Button-quail, Scarlet Honeyeater
Bald Hills Wetland Reserve
Pair of Painted Button-quail flushed on the track to the hide at Bald Hills Wetland Reserve near Tarwin Lower. Also a single Scarlet Honeyeater.
Greg Oakley 12/1 #12120 |
|
 Collared Sparrowhawk
Yarraville Gardens (and Banyule Flats)
Cycled through Yarraville Gardens on the way to work this morning and didn't see or hear any signs of the Collared Sparrowhawks. Last saw them on Wednesday last week when they were being harrassed by a small flock of Sulphur-crested Cockatoos. Also stopped in at Banyule Flats on Saturday night (9th) to see if the Owlet Nightjar was still present. It appears to have moved on, probably due to a pair of Rainbow Lorikeets (with young) nesting in a hole directly behind where the bird was roosting. Family of frogmouths (mother and three young) were still present in the patch of trees adjacent to the car park.
Stephen Kaye 12/1 #12119 |
| Mon 11 |
Pale-headed Rosella
3 Olivetree Close Werribee
In a tree at the front of our house. [Moderator's Note: presumably an escape]
Kevin Maddigan 12/1 #12128 |
|
Grey Goshawk
Bellarine Hwy between Geelong and Ocean Grove
The bird flew fast across the Hwy and then perched on a powerpole. I was able to observe the bird for around 30 seconds before it flew away.
Joe Park 12/1 #12123 |
|
Southern Whiteface
5km N of Axedale.
A single whiteface at the birdbath this afternoon. First one seen for this area. I have seen a small population 4km further north about 18 months ago.
Marlene Lyell 11/1 #12118 |
|
Common Tern (70)
Seaholme Beach, City of Hobsons Bay.
There were 70 Common Tern on rocks offshore from Seaholme this morning, a very high number for around here.
Steve Davidson 11/1 #12115 |
| Sun 10 |
 Budgerigar
Wilby
A flock of 7 Budgerigars was found around home this morning. They were initially in the planted Yellow Gum next to the house. Then they flew down to the front paddock where they fed for a short amount of time with Galahs and Red-rumped Parrots. A flock of White-winged Choughs flew in which scared the flock up into some larger trees. They settled down again to feed on the ground again before flying off high to the north west. The flock consisted of 3 adults and 4 juveniles, which can be seen to the right of the photo. The juveniles were heard giving begging calls so they can't be that old. Where have they bred?
Michael Ramsey 10/1 #12095 |
| Sat 9 |
Mallee Emu-wren
Hattah-Kulkyne National Park
One seen near Nowingi Track about 200m from southern end, about 50m to the east of the track. Full list
Paul Dodd & Ruth Woodrow 10/1 #12109 |
|
Hooded Plover
Narrawong Beach
Two pairs nesting & fenced off from public. Full list
Samantha Greiner 10/1 #12100 |
|
Little Eagle (dark phase)
Bolwara Strawberry Farm, Portland
Two lovely large dark birds with obscure bullseye on under-wing lazily gliding over trees around the strawberry farm (had to stop for strawberries on way to beach!) luckily all bird watching gear in car for day at beach except good id book! Slaters second edition very helpful once home.
Samantha Greiner 10/1 #12099 |
|
Little Eagle
Werribee Zoo, Werribee
I have been monitoring a pair of mixed dark and light morph birds which produced one young that has now left the nest.
As far as I am aware, this is the first (successful) breeding record of Little Eagle for the Werribee Zoo.
Maarten Hulzebosch 10/1 #12097 |
|
 Fairy Tern-juvenile, Spotles Crake, Buff-banded Rail, Wood Sandpiper etc.
Western Treatment Plant, Werribee
Found a just fledged juvenile Fairy Tern in pond next to coast just NE of Beach Rd gate. Also 28 White-winged Black Terns on same pond. 3 brownish juvenile Whiskered Terns at T-Section Lagoons also. Plenty of Common Terns around. Went to check out Spotless Crakes (thanks to Mark & David for the tipoff) on Little River reed bed. Saw 2 adults with 2 tiny black fluffy chicks there & 2 Buff-banded Rails also. Wood Sandpiper present at pond reported in previous sightings. Little Egret in breeding plumage on same pond. Pair of Zebra Finches on road between Austin Rd & T-Section Lagoon. Bushlark on Beach Rd about 100 m from Wilson Rd. 95 species recorded.
Kevin Bartram 10/1 #12094 |
|
Spotless Crake
Western Treatment Plant, Werribee
Two adult Spotless Crakes with chick in the Little River reedbed.
Mark Bennett and David Richardson 9/1 #12092 |
|
 Southern Whiteface
Wilby
Found a single Southern Whiteface in the back paddock this morning. Never recorded around home before. Nearest populations are in the Warby Ranges 20km to the south-east.
Michael Ramsey 9/1 #12086 |
| Fri 8 |
Latham's Snipe
Howe Flat Track, Mallacoota
A single bird flushed near junction of Howe Flat Walking Track. Probably same bird seen same area on 4/1/10 but not positively identified. Both times bird was in low tussocky vegetation beside the track in fairly dry Angophora forest - nearest water Howe Creek at least 100m away and not visible.
Janine Duffy 12/1 #12125 |
|
 Red-lored Whistler, Mallee Emu-wren
Murray-Sunset National Park
Red-lored Whistler: Seen at 8:30am, approximately 13km west of Wymlet Tank on Honeymoon Hut Track. Mallee Emu-wren: Seen at about 5:00pm at site along Pioneer Drive, near Pink Lakes. Full list
Paul Dodd & Ruth Woodrow 10/1 #12108 |
|
Peregrine Falcon
Miller Reserve Boronia
Single Falcon cruising low over the forested hill behind Miller Reserve.
Alf Forbes 8/1 #12080 |
|
 Cape Barren Goose, Wood Sandpiper
Western Treatment Plant, Werribee
Good bird watching today with a total of 67 mostly common or frequently seen species. Two of interest were 32 Cape Barren Geese at the T Section Lagoon, and the Wood Sandpiper previously reported on 4/1/10 which is still present on the lagoon between Lake Borrie and the sea.
Andrew McCutcheon 8/1 #12078 |
| Thu 7 |
Cockatiel, Blue-faced Honeyeater
Avenal, Hume Hwy near Seymour
Cockatiel - One seen flying over paddocks near Seymour, BFHE heard and seen in trees at roadhouse (south-bound)
Richard Loyn 7/2 #12419 |
|
Jacky Winter x 2
Strathewen
Observed on private property on O'deas Rd near the Bowden-spur Rd corner over a few days in the same location. I'd forgotten to report it earlier. white under-sides, grey upper body, tail wagging side-ways.
Greg Cobern 11/1 #12113 |
|
Rainbow Lorikeet, Dollarbird
Quinn's Island Cobram Victoria
Rainbow Lorikeets were a very unexpected sighting. They appeared to be breeding as well. Not seen here before along the Murray River in northern Victoria. 6 birds were seen, one of which was a juvenile begging for food and then fed by an adult. Are they a part of an expansion of this species, or a population founded by escapees? The many orchards of stone fruits around Cobram could be a good food source for them. Also 6 Dollarbirds cackling and chattering away in the Red Gums by the river.
Michael Ramsey 8/1 #12071 |
|
 Powerful Owl
Near the Diamond Creek, downstream of trestle bridge at Eltham.
Sitting quietly in the tree, these two have been around for a couple of weeks to my knowledge. My daughter came across them whilst walking along the path.
Norman Thornbury 8/1 #12070 |
|
Painted Honeyeater, Red-capped Robin
Dunach Conservation Reserve
At least two pairs of Painted Honeyeater still about as well as a pair of Red-caped Robin which may have been collecting food to feed young- apparently a rare bird here.
Sean Dooley, Michael Veitch 8/1 #12065 |
|
Satin Flycatcher, Brown Goshawk, Rose Robin, Bassian Thrush
Emerald Lake Park (path to Cockatoo), Emerald
Not previously observed Satin Flycatchers x3 in this area. One lone male harassing (dive-bombing) immature Brown Goshawk. Further along track one male & female displaying courtship/breeding behaviour. Other birds today include; Rose Robin, Bassian Thrush, Yellow Faced H/E, White Naped H/E, New Holland H/E, Red Browed Finch, Yellow Robin, Grey Shrike-thrush, Brown & Striated Thornbills and Spotted Pardalote.
Claire Wolinski & Barbara Richardson 7/1 #12055 |
| Wed 6 |
 Pied Honeyeater
Goschen Flora Reserve
Still present in resonable numbers. Pied HE is currently the dominant honeyeater in the reserve. Only one Black HE seen, and no Crimson Chats. Full list
Paul Dodd & Ruth Woodrow 10/1 #12104 |
|
 Eastern Curlew
Toora, Corner Inlet
Seen about 100m from the bird hide, but took off when i was 50m away... very touchy. A wide angle shot revealed 62 in total.
Steven Kuiter 7/1 #12057 |
|
 Cockatiels
10k's north Axedale
Following Bob C's report yesterday, there is a further flock of approximately 40 Cockatiels 10k's north along Brown's Lane in Axedale.
Marlene Lyell 6/1 #12047 |
|
Dollarbird
Tambo River - Tambo Upper
For the past week, two Dollarbirds have been heard and seen in trees along the Tambo River (Rodwell Rd) Tambo Upper.
Faye Bedford 6/1 #12031 |
| Tue 5 |
Wedge-tailed Eagle
Ballarat-Bacchus Marsh
Observed 10 Wedgies (mostly in pairs) whilst riding the train from Ballarat to Melbourne. One pair were in sitting in the grass on a hill by the side of the rail line. Great to see them in healthy numbers. Hope any proposed wind farms in the area are thwarted. Certainly should be set aside as prime Wedgie habitat.
Shane Xavier Shalless 8/1 #12064 |
|
Spotted Harrier
Strathewen
Observed hunting low over open grassy hills near corner of Bowden-spur and Odeas Rds. Grey upperbody, brown underbody, long barred tail; no white rump.
Greg Cobern 7/1 #12051 |
|
Pink-eared Duck
Lilydale Lake
Several Pink Eared Ducks in Lagoon. 2 Mistletoebirds at the bridge where Olinda Creek enters the lake.
Alf Forbes 6/1 #12034 |
|
Rufous Songlark, Zebra Finch
Point Wilson Rd
Stopped on Pt Wilson Rd about 1 klm from the freeway to observe a flock of Zebra Finches on the side fence and heard the notes of a Rufous Songlark from the bushes opposite. Waited a couple of minutes and the 2 Rufous Songlarks came out into the open.
Alf Forbes 6/1 #12033 |
|
Bassian Thrush, Collared Sparrowhawk, Powerful Owl
Wilson Reserve
At sunset/dusk saw the (resident?) pair of Bassian Thrush near where the paths meet just west of the golf course. Also a juvenile, female Sparrowhawk, calling loudly and causing much ruckus amongst the Noisy Miners. The Powerful Owl that roosts alone, 400m from the family was still there, just a few trees further south than usual. As I walked back to the car (45 mins later after walking to Burke Rd. and back), it conveniently flew into a eucalypt near me on the main path and surveryed the area for about 10 mins, oblivious to me. It then took off in the direction of Bailey Billabong, to alarm calls from the moorhens and ducks. Also, two pairs of frogmouth parents were busy feeding youngsters within a couple of hundred metres of each other in the same general area.
John Gray 5/1 #12030 |
|
Scarlet Honeyeater
Healesville Sanctuary
At least one bird calling near the entrance to the Sanctuary and a female bird seen at the kangaroo enclosure.
Sean Dooley 5/1 #12028 |
|
 Cockatiel
Axedale - East of Bendigo
Approximately 60 - 70 birds feeding on stubble paddock and roosting in 2 dead trees. On McIvor Highway approx. 2 kms East of Axedale. Unusual in the area in such numbers.
Bob Cook 5/1 #12021 |
|
 Square-tailed Kite and Dollarbirds
5km North West of Bairnsdale
Square-tailed Kite was seen flying around the Mitchell River and surrounding escarpment in farmland country (atypical habitat and about 5km from contiguous forest and first record on the property in 30 years). A pair of Dollarbirds are fairly resident and probably breeding in the area.
Roger Bilney 5/1 #12018 |
| Mon 4 |
Latham's snipe (1 only)
Banyule wetlands
Flushed from the drainage ditch alongside the bike trail.
Marian Weaving 5/1 #12027 |
|
White-winged Triller
Robson Rd, Hamilton (outskirts )
One adult with one juvenile in tow; also Yellow-tailed Black-Cockatoos with ‘whingeing’ offspring across the road in house garden eating banksia cones; Willie Wagtails with juvenile; and a pair of Restless Flycatchers busy between neighbours' yards and paddocks.
Samantha Greiner 5/1 #12022 |
|
Wood Sandpiper,Bar-tailed Godwit
Western Treatment Plant
The Wood Sandpiper as previously reported on 1/1/10 is still present on the lagoon between Lake Borrie and the sea. If you go down Beach Rd and go through Gate 4 (key required) the bird is on the first lagoon on your right. 1 Bar-tailed Godwit present at the same location.
Ben Sinclair 4/1 #12014 |
|
 Albino Richard's Pipit
Western Treatment Plant, Werribee
At Austin Road where Banded Lapwings hang out, I sighted a very light coloured (not 100% white) Richard's Pipit. Although the treatment plant often produces albino or partly albino birds, this is my first Pipit that I have seen of this colour.
Other birds of note were the waders that were recorded on this website earlier by others. In addition to these, 1 Eastern Curlew was seen at the Spit and 2 Golden Plovers at the Borrow Pits.
I also sighted both of these species at the same site on the 28th December, 2009.
Maarten Hulzebosch 4/1 #12011 |
|
 Olive-backed Oriole (immature)
Jan Juc
An immature Olive-backed Oriole flew into our window this morning.
Neil Loxston 4/1 #12002 |
| Sun 3 |
Regent Honeyeater
Mitchell River Silt Jetties - East Gippsland
3 - Two Adults and One dependent but fledged chick.
Observed again on Sat 9th about 300M East of original sighting on northern bank of Mitchell R. Full list
Don Ripper 14/1 #12142 |
|
Rufous Songlark, White-winged Triller, Eurasian Skylark
Bunyip State Park, Bunyip River Road
Surprised that these are first listings for Bunyip but saw 1 Eurasian Skylark and 8-10 Rufous Songlark in grasslands along Bunyip River Road and also White-winged Triller in the burnt woods along the edge of the road. Two (most probable) Helmeted Honeyeaters flew across the road but couldn't confirm legs bands - no listings of Yellow-tufted for Bunyip. Info passed on to DSE rep. Full list
Jackson Airey 4/1 #12013 |
|
Lewin's Rail amd Latham's Snipe
Heathdale Glen Orden Wetlands, Werribee 3030. (Melways map 206 B3)
At 1915 hours, two Lewin's Rail heard calling from wet rank grass verge of wetland, both birds then observed (one flew). Nine Latham's Snipe observed in grass verge, all flushed, three from one location and six from another.
Peter Gibbons 3/1 #11997 |
|
Grey-crowned Babbler
Lake Yando (NE of Boort)
Previously dry for many years, Lake Yando got 1000ML of environmental water in November.
5 babblers seen, also Coots, Red-kneed and Black-fronted Dotterel, Black-winged Stilt, White-necked and White-faced Heron, White and Straw-necked Ibis, Grey Teal & Yellow-billed Spoonbill. Full list
Malcolm Cousland 3/1 #11994 |
|
Painted Honeyeater
Dunach Nature Conservation Reserve (Clunes)
1 pair together, and later 1 female all within 200 metres of no dumping sign on south-west track near Clunes-Talbot Rd. Full list
John Watson 3/1 #11993 |
|
 Zebra Finch, Red - Browed Finch
Private Property Bacchus Marsh
Small flock (approx 9 birds)of Zebra finches and Red-Browed Finches together in a dead tree on private land near the Rowsley Valley.
David Whelan 3/1 #11992 |
| Sat 2 |
Yellow-tailed Black Cockatoo
Spring Gully Bendigo
Flock of 10 birds flying over suburbs in the evening.
Gerry Duane 4/1 #12004 |
|
Buff-banded Rail
Benalla. Jaycee Island
Seen in the creek that forms the northern edge of the island. Foraging on the exposed mud before the water level rose following the heavy rain.
Bill Morecraft 4/1 #11999 |
|
Stubble Quail
Royal Park - native grassland
Chris Lester 3/1 #11984 |
| Fri 1 |
Little Corella
Ascot Vale
I've just read about the northern suburbs Corellas flock and whilst I was over in Oz over Xmas and New Year, there was a flock that used to appear late afternoon in Ascot Vale every day between Xmas and New Year. Don't know if they are still visiting.
Andy Lees 2/2 #12368 |
|
Pectoral & Wood Sandpipers, White-winged Black Tern etc
Western Treatment Plant, Werribee
A relaxing New Year's day at the WTP with best birds - 2 Pectoral Sandpipers (Western Lagoons) + 1 Pectoral, 1 Wood & 5 Marsh Sandpipers, plus 15 Red Knot + 25 Bar-tailed Godwit (T-Section Lagoons); 2 Black-tailed Godwit (280 South Road & Walsh's Lagoon) 10+ White-winged Black Terns (north of Beach Road); 10 Glossy Ibis (Walsh's Lagoon); 10+ Stubble Quail providing photo opportunities; 10 Australian Spotted Crakes in different places; 2 Brown Songlarks; and 3 Horsfield's Bushlarks. Not a single Red-necked Avocet for the day.
John Barkla, Fred Smith & Alison Street 4/1 #12005 |
|
Purple-crowned Lorikeet
East Camberwell
2 birds heard in flight heading east. Very rare in Boroondara (2 records in biodiversity report (2006) and only second record in local area in 30+ years.
George Appleby 2/1 #11970 |
|
 Pacific Golden Plover, Grey Plover, Red Knot, Wood Sandpiper, Zebra Finch
Western Treatment Plant, Werribee
Two Grey Plover and several Red Knot at The Spit, also a flock of Zebra Finches (photo). Two Pacific Golden Plovers in non-breeding and one in partial breeding plumage on rocks offshore between the Lake Borrie outfall and the hide. Wood Sandpiper on a lagoon between Lake Borrie and the sea.
Andrew Wood 1/1 #11969 |
|
Diamond Dove
Serendip Sanctuary, Lara
A single young bird was observed on the track between the disused Magpie Goose breeding pen (30 on Parknote) and the Wader Hide (31 on Parknote). The bird was quite flighty and flew from tree or bush when approached. Full list
Paul Dodd & Ruth Woodrow 1/1 #11966 |
|
Common Sandpiper
Hastings foreshore
One bird sighted here today adjacent to the jetty in amongst the mangroves.
S. King 1/1 #11965 |
|
Dusky Woodswallow nesting, Black-faced Cuckoo-shrike nesting, Common Bronzewing, Sacred Kingfisher
Yarra Bend Park - Galatea Point
Dusky Woodswallow - pair nesting. Only ever seen a single bird at this site before. Also Black-faced Cuckoo-shrike nesting, Common Bronzewing (possibly young bird), Grey Shrike-thrush and Sacred Kingfisher. This site never ceases to amaze with its variety as it is only 3km from the city centre. Full list
Ian Lundy 1/1 #11964 |