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August 2014

Fri 1		Swift Parrot Cowan
		Six Swift Parrots observed flying between trees in and around Cowan Public School. Apparently, attracted to area by flowering planted Forest Red Gum.
		Paul Burcher 1/8 #218975

July 2014

Thu 31		Grey Goshawk Yellomundee Regional Park
		Single bird perched in a dead tree beside the river. Also worth noting is the fact that the hundreds of Silvereyes that were in the park 2 weeks ago have all gone. Small numbers of Yellow-faced Honeyeaters are moving through the area from nth to sth.
		Graham Groves 31/7 #218962
Wed 30		Noisy Pitta Start of Sandon Back Track at Illaroo Camping Ground, Yuraygir National Park
		One bird observed in low coastal scrub behind fore dunes at edge of track.
		Russell Jago per Greg Clancy 31/7 #218967
		Noisy Pitta Yuraygir National Park, Minnie Water
		Pitta observed twice in past 2 weeks on track at edge of village which leads to Illaroo Picnic Area. One bird appeared to have a white throat like a Blue-winged Pitta and photos have been attempted.
		Craig & Debbie Martin per Greg Clancy 31/7 #218966
		Boobook Greenwich
		Started calling in Gore Ck valley [N or River Rd side of Bob Campbell Oval], 5.50. Still calling at 6 [when I left the area]
		Ted Nixon 31/7 #218961
		Red-necked Avocet Pitt Town Lagoon
		1 lone Red-necked Avocet
		K Brandwood 31/7 #218960
		Tawny-crowned Honeyeater, Chestnut-rumped Heathwren Royal National Park--Wattamolla
		Atop the cleft south of the twin tanks. Unable to count New Holland Honeyeaters, but the interval between sightings was seconds rather than minutes over a two hour period, even while driving in from Bertram Stevens Dr. Continuous noise from Little Wattlebirds skulking in the heath. At beach lookout, Red Wattlebird, Australian Magpie, Crested Pigeon, Superb Fairy-wren (breeding pair plus eclipse male).
		Jeff Melvaine 31/7 #218959
		Rose Robin Wattle Forest, Royal National Park
		Male seen at the transition from parkland to scrub beyond the end of the road. Also seen: Satin Bowerbird (M) and Pied Currawong feeding from fruiting tree nearby, Eastern Spinebill, Grey Fantail, Lewin's Honeyeater, Little Corella, Sulphur-crested Cockatoo, Australian Magpie
		Jeff Melvaine 31/7 #218958
		Swift Parrot Mulgoa Nature Reserve
		At least 4 SP seen on Dillwyina Trail. Probably more as 4 most seen at one time. About 500 metres along trail on the right in Grey Gums just past the Ironbarks. Observed from 8:30 AM to 11:15 AM, still there when I left.
		Michael Rutkowski 30/7 #218953
		Fan-tailed Cuckoo Caniaba, Lismore NSW
		Returning Fan-tailed Cuckoo. The object to the left of the bird is a rat's tail left by a Black-shouldered Kite.
		paul griffin 30/7 #218948
Tue 29		Masked Owl Lower Pappinbarra
		A Masked Owl was heard calling repeatedly at 10:22pm
		Ian Kerr 29/7 #218946
		Rockwarbler, Spotted Quail-Thrush Evans Lookout, Blackheath
		Spotted Quail-Thrush seen on side of access road to the lookout. Must be the best Rockwarbler site in the State. Ever so grateful to Tim Thurston and co for suggesting we look there! [Moderator's note: Rockwarbers can be seen regularly in the car park at Evans Lookout]
		Hedley and Irena Earl 29/7 #218938
Mon 28		Square-tailed Kite Memorial Park, Grafton
		One bird gliding low over building and trees.
		Greg Clancy & Alan Pilkington 31/7 #218973
		Varied Triller, Gull-billed Tern Susan Island, Grafton
		Male Triller flew to rainforest on Island. Tern over water near Island.
		Greg Clancy, Alan & Wendy Pilkington 31/7 #218971
		Hooded Robin London Bridge Homestead, Googong Dam South
		Two pairs of hooded robins hawking from boundary fence, homestead roof and around homestead and surrounds.
		Doug Laing and Robert Parnell 30/7 #218955
		Red-rumped Parrot Bicentennial Park (Glebe)
		male bird seen feeding on ground and then flying away
		A David J Watson 30/7 #218951
		Australian Bustard 30deg 20.891S 149deg 40.663E approx 12km west Narrabri on Yarrie Lake Rd
		Single Australian Bustard seen at 1630 h in open grassy paddock on private property.
		James Faris 29/7 #218926
		Whistling Kite Longueville Tennis Club, Dunois St
		At approx. 10.30am a Whistling Kite was circling over the tennis courts and adjoining Kingsford Smith Oval.
		Judy Clark 28/7 #218915
		Fan-tailed Cuckoo Caniaba, Lismore NSW
		Returning Fan-tailed Cuckoo in eucalypt woodland, calling repeatedly; also returning Rufous Whistler (female).
		Paul Griffin 28/7 #218907
Sun 27		Peregrine Falcon, Australasian Grebe Clarence River, Grafton
		Adult landed on power pole near River. Three Grebes on River.
		Greg Clancy 31/7 #218970
		Black-tailed Native-hen & male Blue-billed Duck Lake Wallace, just west of Lithgow
		Black-tailed Native-hen feeding with Eurasian Coot , Dusky Moorhen & Purple Swamphen on short grass close to the boat shed jetty. Wary and walked into the reeds when fisherman and dog walkers went past on the dirt road. Excellent scope views of white spotting on flanks and green frontal shield and two coloured bill.
		Graham Blackwell 29/7 #218945
		Restless Flycatcher, Nutmeg Mannikins, Black-fronted Dotterel Banksia-Eve St wetland area
		A.P.Austin Field - Restless Flycatcher perched on fence post, feeding on ground-very active along with neighbourly Willy Wagtails, 12 Nutmeg Mannikins feeding nearby. 2 Black-fronted Dotterels on rough ground near wetlands behind St George Soccer Stadium.
		Oliver Williams 28/7 #218910
		Rock Warbler Wattamolla
		Rock Warbler (singing beautifully without prompting) in the bush close to the rock edge. A large number of Tawny-crowned Honeyeaters and a Sea Eagle patrolling the coast.
		Marie Lister, Maragret Murray, Tim Thurston and Conrad 27/7 #218895
		Magpie Geese, Plumed Whistling Duck Narromine
		Small dam just west of Narromine Wetlands this afternoon had 6 Magpie Geese and 800-1000 Plumed Whistling Ducks. Saw these birds here about a month ago at the same sight. Also present was a Little Eagle and Cockatiels
		Warren Chad 27/7 #218894
		Spotted Harrier, Tawny-crowned Honeyeater, Beautiful Firetail Mt Bass Fire Trail, Royal National Park
		A Spotted Harrier flew overhead at Mt Bass Fire Trail during an outing of CBOC led by Adrian Dick. Several Tawny-crowned Honeyeaters seen and a single Beautiful Firetail. Photo by Rodney Stiles Further information
		Jenny & Rod Stiles, Adrian Dick & CBOC members. 27/7 #218891
		Black Bittern, Grey Goshawk Deep Water Park Milperra
		Single female or immature Black Bittern flushed from near the jetty on the first pond at the Blue Gum Farm entry. Adult female Grey Goshawk perched on the old shed and power poles in the former market garden.
		David James 27/7 #218876
		Pallid Cuckoo Eulah Creek
		An early return from the North today - a male Pallid Cuckoo calling vigorously from one of our Acacia salicina trees (call was recorded; "further information link"). It must have been riding the steady northerly winds we have had for two days now, prior to a south-westerly change with thunderstorms. Further information
		Michael Dahlem 27/7 #218870
Sat 26		Noisy Pitta, Rainbow Bee-eater, Grey Goshawk, Shining Bronze-Cuckoo Susan Island, Grafton
		Pitta heard calling at dawn and dusk (also on 27 & 28 July), Bee-eaters present (7+) 26-28 July, grey morph Grey Goshawk, Bronze-cuckoo heard calling,
		Greg Clancy, Alan & Wendy Pilkington, Andrew Tarrant 31/7 #218969
		Hooded Plover Bendalong Monument Beach
		Two individuals on the hard sand about halfway along the beach north of the picnic area. eBird checklist
		Ian Samson 28/7 #218919
		Atlantic Yellow-nosed Albatross (BARC submission in prep), Wandering Albatross and Bullers Albatross Offshore--Wollongong pelagic
		Highlight of the SOSSA July 2014 trip was an Atlantic Yellow-nosed Albatross, which did a few passes at the shelf break. It was well photographed and a submission to BARC will be forthcoming. Other good sightings included 2 Wandering Albatross, a number of Antipodean/Gibson's Albatrosses and 3+ Buller's Albatrosses. Numbers of Indian Yellow-nosed, Black-browed and Campbell Albatrosses were also high. Other sightings included 2 White-fronted Terns, 4+ Brown Skuas, 6+ Fairy Prions and 6+ Providence Petrels. Noted absences were any Giant-Petrels or Cape Petrels. It has been nearly 2 years since there was a Cape Petrel sighting on a SOSSA trip off Wollongong. Photos will be available on the SOSSA website, see Further information
		Brook Whylie, Rob Hynson and others on board the Sandra K 27/7 #218897
		Pacific Baza Milperra
		1 bird over my yard and former Riverlands Golf Course, mid afternoon.
		David James 27/7 #218875
		Bassian Thrush Bundanoon township
		3 birds feeding out in the open at the end of Coalmines Rd near the entrance to Santi Forest Monastery. First time I've seen 3 of these birds together at once. Further information
		Lorne Johnson 27/7 #218869
		Blue-faced Honeyeater North Richmond
		Great views of 3 birds in the palms at Hanna Printing opposite North Richmond shops on Bells Line of Road. I have had a couple of unconfirmed sightings in this location in the last few years, and heard a bird calling here last year, so suspect they may be resident here.
		Eric Finley 26/7 #218865
		Scarlet Robin, Black-chinned Honeyeater, Diamond Firetail wolgan valley newnes.
		Highlights from a days birding in the Wolgan Valley today were 4 Black-chinned Honeyeaters,15+ Diamond Firetails with 3 juveniles, 3 Scarlet Robins,1 White-bellied Cuckoo-shrike and 1 Red-browed Treecreeper.
		Michael Ronan 26/7 #218861
		Superb Lyrebird Northwood
		5.15pm a female lyrebird was perched on the post at the entry to the track from Fleming Street, Northwood down to Gore Creek Reserve.
		Judy Clark 26/7 #218853
Fri 25		Wandering Tattler Flat Rock, Ballina
		2 Wandering Tattlers at Flat Rock this afternoon, 1 in full or near full breeding plumage, the other in non-breeding plumage, they appeared to be sticking close by each other. None seen in previous few weeks, though I haven't been thoroughly searching for them. eBird checklist
		Steve McBride 25/7 #218845
		Black Falcon Sutton Forest
		Awesome 15 minute view of Black Falcon perched in a dead tree by Exeter Rd, near Greenhills Rd turn off. Great to see it fly off over paddocks where sheep were grazing; love that distinctive flight and silhouette. My second Southern Highlands sighting of a Black Falcon.
		Lorne Johnson 25/7 #218844
Thu 24		Pacific Baza Vimiera Park Terrys Creek
		High in the canopy of eucalypts - area of Blue Gum High Forest. .
		Irene Timmins 27/7 #218874
		Noisy Pitta Sandon Camping Area, Yuraygir National Park
		Immature Pitta at edge of campground under sparse rainforest vegetation near mangroves. Pittas have only been seen at this site for the past couple of years during the cooler months.
		Greg Clancy, Russell Jago, Hannah Mitchell 24/7 #218839
		Buller's Albatross, White-fronted Tern Pelagic off Swansea
		5 Buller's Albatrosses was a good count for a Swansea pelagic and was probably the highlight for the day. All 5 birds were present around the boat at the same time during a feast of activity not long after we arrived at the shelf (at about 1100). The two most numerous birds for the day were Yellow-nosed Albatross (>50 birds, 37 being the max count at once) and Solander's (Providence) Petrels (very difficult to count, but there were always birds in view, many on the horizon; I would think close to 50). We had smaller numbers of the other 'regular' albatross (3 Wandering, some Shy), a few Great-winged Petrels, a single Cape Petrel, a few Fairy Prions, 2 White-faced Stormies, 3 Brown Skua and a White-fronted Tern on the way back in.
		Mick Roderick, Allan Benson and 15 others 24/7 #218838
		Striated Heron mudflat at Gore Creek Bay, Greenwich
		A single bird feeding on the mudflat, then flew into Mangroves.
		Sheila Walkerden 24/7 #218836
		Black-shouldered Kite Lennox Place, Barden Ridge.
		A Black-shouldered Kite seen this afternoon around 3:45. Overflew then landed on a nearby power pole. First record for this location. eBird checklist
		Beverley Giller 24/7 #218834
		Brown Cuckoo-Dove Bomaderry Creek Regional Park
		While searching for the elusive Rock Warbler we found and photographed a Cuckoo-dove. Our book notes suggested that this species was a summer visitor to the region. (Moderator's Note: Brown Cuckoo-Doves are resident in small numbers southwards along the Coast all the way to the Victorian Border, however some local movements may occur.AKM)
		Hedley and Irena Earl 24/7 #218833
		Radjah Shelduck Gunnedah Saleyards, Gunnedah
		Single bird feeding in wet drain across from Saleyards within 2m of Kamilaroi highway at 0935hrs. Shelduck feeding in association with White-necked Heron. Photos taken to be uploaded when possible.. (Moderator's Note. This is an intersting record. Radjar Shelducks are on the Review List for the NSWRAC, so a urrf should be submitted to the Committee to confirm the sighting-AKM)
		James Faris 24/7 #218830
Wed 23		Pheasant Coucal Elvina Trail off West Head Road Ku-ring-gai Chase NP
		Heard calling and as I approached flushed from the ground in dense heath to the right of the start of the trail just near where the track leads in to Aboriginal engravings. Flew across in front of me just making it over the low trees to the left and out of sight.
		Rae Lister 24/7 #218835
		Ground Parrot Barren Grounds Nature Reserve
		After fruitlessly searching for this bird in Victoria we received a thrill of a lifetime being able to observe this bird feeding on the track no more than 15 metres. It eventually noticed us and flew off just above heath height. The birtd was seen 70m passed the old lodge on the main track.
		Hedley and Irena Earl 24/7 #218832
		Swift parrot Bursana trail Scheyville NP
		One swift parrot in crown of tall eucalyptus warbling away for 30 minutes before departing northwards at noon. Also one Crested Shrike-tit bathing in a muddy pool.
		Steve Hale 23/7 #218824
		Little Penguin Darling Harbour, Sydney
		4 birds seen by my dad when he was out rowing. Moving quite quickly, often only seen in we wake of passing ferries. They were heard calling as well. Seen later on near Goat Island.
		Simon Gorta 23/7 #218823
		Noisy Pitta Deep Creek, Narrabeen
		Noisy Pitta well seen at 7.15 am initially on track to left of green bridge just past first corner where track starts to run alongside creek. Subsequently seen in undergrowth and along track just to left of green bridge.
		Elisabeth Karplus 23/7 #218821
Tue 22		Square-tailed Kite, Little Lorikeet Tancreds Lane, Clarenza
		Adult Square-tailed Kite foraging at canopy level at 1330 hrs. Two Little Lorikeets heard calling as they flew overhead.
		Greg Clancy & Russell Jago 23/7 #218815
		Yellow-billed Spoonbill, Swamp Harrier, Gull-billed Tern The Washpen, Swan Creek
		5 Spoonbills actively foraging in wetland, adult male Harrier perched on fence post in wetland and then flew to N, 1 Tern in breeding plumage landed on fence post in wetland.
		Greg Clancy & Russell Jago 23/7 #218814
		Hoary-headed Grebe Wetland at Swan Creek, Clarenza
		1 grebe on wetland. This is the first local record since the small influx of this species a few months back.
		Greg Clancy & Russell Jago 23/7 #218813
		Plumed Whistling-Duck Watkins Lane, Ulmarra
		350+ around a dam
		Greg Clancy & Russell Jago 23/7 #218812
		White-winged Chough Coutts Crossing Public School
		9 Choughs foraging on ground in playground, including 2+ juveniles, unusual at this site.
		Greg Clancy 23/7 #218811
		Cattle Egret Smeaton Grange
		2 Cattle Egrets feeding on Magdalene Catholic High School's back oval mid-afternoon. The first time I've seen them here in 5 yrs.
		Lorne Johnson 22/7 #218801
		Freckled Duck, Magpie Goose, Pink-eared Duck, Little Grassbird Narrabri Lake
		All three species reported recently (#218716) are still present. Most of the Freckled Ducks (the corrected total count for the earlier report on 16 July 2014 is now 29) were hard to find while preening under overhanging branches on the bird refuge island. In addition, heard a Little Grassbird calling for the first time this season. White-breasted Woodswallows have returned after their winter absence. Further information
		Michael Dahlem 22/7 #218798
		Striated Pardalote (Yellow-tipped) Black Hill (Newcastle)
		At least 4 Yellow-tipped Striated Pardalotes seen today in bushland near Black Hill, likely several others present (calling birds) but not seen.
		Mick Roderick and Tom Clarke 22/7 #218793
		Bassian Thrush, Yellow-tailed Black-Cockatoo Irrawong Reserve
		A single Bassian Thrush was seen this morning near the Noisy PItta spot at 7:10-7:40 am. 2 Yellow-tailed Black-Cockatoos were seen in lilly pilly and casuarinas near the small bridge adjacent to Irrawong Rd.
		Jayden Walsh 22/7 #218792
Mon 21		Black-browed & Shy Albatross Wollongong Harbour
		After the large seas & strong southerly winds numerous seabirds have been sighted close to shore. Monday, 3.30 pm Albatross species viewed & photographed from Flagstaff Hill Point. P1, Black-browed Albatross rounding the point. P2, Black-browed Albatross resting about 500m to the north. P3, poor quality shots of juvenile Shy Albatross. Lines indicate grey upper wing, white below wing & black thumbprint under leading edge of wing near body was visable although not clear in this image. P4, juvenile Black-browed Albatross. eBird checklist
		Paul Lynch 24/7 #218840
		Powerful Owl Irrawong Reserve
		I stopped by Irrawong Reserve briefly after visiting Deep Creek for the first time on my way to Long Reef (No Black Bittern but Bassian Thrush (2) and Topknot Pigeons (~24) flying over being the highlights at Deep Creek). I didn't find the Noisy Pitta this time at Irrawong Reserve but did spot a Powerful Owl more or less in same spot I've observed them previously, complete with Common Ringtail Possum. Photo of the Owl attached
		Greg McLachlan 22/7 #218800
		Common Greenshank, Curlew Sandpiper, Red-necked Avocet, Lewin's Rail Hexham Swamp
		Loads of bird life at the swamp. Two Common Greenshanks, both species of Grassbird, Curlew Sandpipers, good numbers of Red-necked Avocet, Australian Spotted Crake, Spotless Crake, a single Lewin's Rail, Buff-banded Rail, an individual female Australian Shelduck, and a Pied Butcherbird. Several species of raptor also included Nankeen Kestrel, Black-shouldered Kite, Marsh Harrier and White-bellied Sea-Eagle. Many other species observed resulting in a very active day. No luck with the Eastern Yellow Wagtail unfortunately.
		Chris Dryburgh 22/7 #218797
		Red-necked Avocet Deeban Spit, Port Hacking
		14 Red-necked Avocet along the shoreline of Deeban Spit on high tide this afternoon, roosting with some occasional feeding, standing not far from fishermen. Attached photo has 13 of them in frame.
		Bruce Roubin and Deryk Engel 21/7 #218786
		Little Penguin Long Beach
		1 Little Penguin &112 Great Cormorants at Long Beach.
		Tony Dawe 21/7 #218782
Sun 20		Wandering Albatross Black Head (Gerroa)
		Sea watch 2.50pm spotted this Wandering Albatross. We saw it do 2 passes first heading north and then 15 minutes later returning south, passing just near the end of the rock-shelf. [Moderator's note (NH): Likely a Gibson's Albatross] eBird checklist Further information
		Paul & Carol Lynch 23/7 #218822
		Great-winged Petrel Fort Drive (Nobby's, Newcastle)
		4 Great-winged Petrels seen yesterday afternoon during a brief seawatch. Also 2 Black-browed type and one Shy-type Albatross. Notably, there were only small numbers of Fluttering Shearwaters (<50), which have been off the Newcastle coastline in their 1000's over the past week or so (including Saturday 19th, when there was also a Brown Skua, unidentified Giant-Petrel and a Shy-type seen). Also present just off the rocks yesterday were 2 White-fronted Terns and oodles of gannets. 2 Ruddy Turnstones flew past (both known to be over-wintering at in the area).
		Mick Roderick 21/7 #218780
		Zebra Finch Camden , cnr Cawdor Rd and Westbrook rd
		Interesting sighting yesterday. While collecting kindling on the side of Westbrook Rd I heard the distinctive call of Zebra Finches. There was a flock of 100+ feeding on the ground in a paddock around 200 m along Westbrook Rd. They easily flushed and flew into the small trees along the paddock border.
		Michael Miller 21/7 #218776
		Scarlet Robin, Speckled Warbler Air Services site, Shanes Park
		Quite a lot of bird activity this morning at the above location. We were delighted to find an adult male Scarlet Robins in a recently burnt patch (I have seen them a number of times at Shanes Park over the years but not last year), a few Rose Robins, lots of Buff-rumped Thornbills, a pair of Collared Sparrowhawk and heard a couple of Speckled Warblers. It was interesting to see (an over-wintering/early returning) adult male Rufous Whistler land on a twig in the crown of a eucalypt and a second or so later an adult male Golden Whistler land on exactly the same small twig. Also we had 40 or so Eastern Grey Kangaroos on the site.
		Edwin Vella and Mark Fuller 20/7 #218772
		Wandering-type Albatross, Buller's Albatross, Sooty Shearwater, Great-winged Petrel Royal National Park--Wattamolla
		Highlights from a seawatch off Wattamolla today were 4 Wandering-type Albatross including 1 juveniile bird, 10 Buller's Albatross, 2 Sooty Shearwaters and 1 lone Great-winged Petrel.
		michael ronan. 20/7 #218769
		Chestnut Teal Hiney Road Dam outh of Orange
		Pair (my first sighting for Orange) on Orchard dam with Aust Shovelor and Pink-eared Ducks.
		N.W. Schrader 20/7 #218762
		Freckled Duck Spring Creek Reserve, Orange
		Eight immature Freckled ducks.
		N.W.Schrader 20/7 #218761
		Noisy Pitta. Black Bittern Deep Creek Reserve, Narrabeen
		Noisy Pitta seen on both sides of creek between small green footbridge and waterfall. The immature Striated Heron also here but no Bassian Thrush. Black Bittern (possibly 2) seen upstream of the pipeline footbridge on the right side looking upstream. Also a Great Egret, White necked Heron and 2 Royal Spoonbill on the little freshwater pond.
		Tom Wilson 20/7 #218760
Sat 19		Great-winged Petrel, Wandering type albatross, White-fronted Tern, Fairy Prion Mistral Pt, Maroubra
		Before I arrived David had a couple of Wandering type Albatross which have been scarce lately off Maroubra. We also had about 20 Great-winged Petrels, c120 Black-browed, at least one Campbell, 3 Yellow-nosed and c 15 Shy Albatross, an unidentified Giant Petrel, up to 4 Fairy Prions, c25 Fluttering Shearwaters, 4 Brown Skua, a White-fronted Tern and an Eastern Reef Egret also flew past. An Eastern Curlew flew south, against the wind about 50-100m out. Also had a Humpback Whale, a few Bottle-nosed Dolphins and I had good views of a Fur Seal within 30 metres from shore.
		Edwin Vella, David Mitford, Simon Gorta 20/7 #218771
		Great-winged Petrel Kurnell peninsula
		29 Great-winged Petrels were seen flying north in a 20 minute sea watch this afternoon. Also seen were 9 Black-browed and 1 Shy Albatross.
		Rob Hynson 19/7 #218755
		Great-winged Petrel, Wandering-type Albatross, Buller's Albatross wattamolla royal national park.
		Great conditions for seabirds today with over 200 Great-winged Petrels also 1 Wandering-type Albatross. 4 Buller's Albatross and at least 120 Shy Albatross, 25 Indian Yellow-nosed Albatross, 200 Black-browed Albatross, 5 Brown Skuas and 20 Fairy Prions.
		michael ronan 19/7 #218752
		Great-winged Petrel Headland at Gerroa
		20+ Great-winged Petrels flying close inshore including over the actual headland in SW galeforce conditions. Unusual to see this species flying over land. Possible indication of numbers about to be washed ashore?
		Martin Schulz 19/7 #218746
		Osprey Combadello Weir, 25km West of Moree
		An Osprey was observed flying over the Mehi River at around 11:45am. This is the first sighting of the species at this location and in the area. They are also rare locally and this is the farthest west I have seen one so far. eBird checklist Further information
		Curtis Hayne and Ainslee Lines 19/7 #218740
Fri 18		Flame Robin The Lagoon via Bathurst
		At least 15 (probably up to 10 more) Flame Robins foraging together on a bitterly cold day among the reeds and weeds on the edge of Apsley Lagoon south of Bathurst. The lagoon is filling again after being dry recently attracting waterbirds including 300+ Grey Teal, Pacific Black Ducks, Pink-eared Ducks and Straw-necked Ibis. Also three species of raptors. eBird checklist
		Mark Ley 21/7 #218774
		Brown Falcon Bundeena
		A Brown Falcon calling in flight over Bundeena today heading NW around 10am.
		Bruce Roubin 18/7 #218733
Thu 17		Lewin's Rail Ocean Drive, Port Macquarie
		Walking along a track and flushed a cat which dropped a Lewin's Rail, in the bush near the Golf Course. It was still alive but died shortly after.
		Tim Morris 17/7 #218730
		Regent Honeyeater Chiltern Trail, Ingleside
		One juvenile Regent Honeyeater around 10.30 a.m.
		Colin Morrison 17/7 #218728
Wed 16		Black Kite Seaham Rd, Raymond Terrace
		1 Black Kite flying low over the road near the Hinton Rd turnoff.
		Clive Meadows 18/7 #218731
		Eastern Osprey Hawkesbury River, Laughtondale (near Wisemans Ferry)
		One juvenile Eastern Osprey observed perched in a Swamp Oak over lagoon near Hawkesbury River at midday.
		Paul Burcher 16/7 #218724
		Pink-eared Duck, Whistlng Kite, Nankeen Kestrel, Australasian Shoveller Dairy Swamp, Central Coast Wetlands, Tuggerah
		Today we counted 148 Pink-eared Ducks on the Dairy Swamp. This is the most ever Pink-ears recorded on the Central Coast since the CCGBNSW records started in 1995.A Nankeen Kestrel was feeding close to the Swamp, 2 Whistling Kites were sighted and 12 Shovellers were seen with the Pink-ears.
		Alan Morris and Wayne Hodgkinson 16/7 #218718
		Black-necked Stork, Freckled Duck, Brown Goshawk McPherson Rd Swamp, Tuggerah
		A brief visit confirmed today that the immature male Black-necked Stork was still present at this wetland, having been seen daily since first reported on 11/7/14. Also present were 8 Freckled Ducks, single Brown Goshawk, Swamp Harrier and Black-shouldered Kite.
		Alan Morris and Wayne Hodgkinson 16/7 #218717
		Freckled Duck, Magpie Goose, Pink-eared Duck Narrabri Lake
		For the first time ever I have found Freckled Ducks at Narrabri Lake (Narrabri West) this morning. There were about 20 Freckled Ducks on open water. Also present were Magpie Geese (hidden in dense reeds) and some Pink-eared Ducks (semi-regular visitors). It looks as if the local Whistling Kites already had a fluffy chick in their nest. Further information
		Michael Dahlem 16/7 #218716
Tue 15		Noisy Pitta, Scarlet Honeyeater Irrawong Reserve, Ingleside.
		Single Noisy Pitta hopping around to the left of the boardwalk under the cabbage palms near the first waterfall.
		L. Morgan 16/7 #218712
		Double-banded Plovers, Pacific Golden Plovers Port Macquarie, Pelican Island and River Park Road
		18 Double-banded Plovers seen on Pelican Island and two Pacific Golden Plovers were roosting. One Pacific Golden Plover was taken by an Eastern Osprey as we watched. Then we went to the River Park Road to look for other PGP and found 8 feeding on a vacant block of land next to the canal. Seen on our Hastings Birdwatcher monthly wader count outing. eBird checklist Further information
		Ian Kerr, Sue Lipscombe and Bryce Taylor 15/7 #218699
Mon 14		Grey Falcon x 2 Broken Hill, Stephens Creek Resorvoir
		S 3153.811 E 14132.798; approx 3.45 pm seen two birds fly over a hill from the south towards me. One was ahead of the other slightly one went to my left. The one in front went past to my right and was closer. I noticed it was all grey and lighter grey underneath with light lacing or wavy pattern underneath on wings. It had a black tear drop under its eye and it looked to have very large eyes black in colour. No other black on it at all. When they came over the hill, they dropped into the valley over me, then went over the hill behind me. They were in view for about 20 seconds before disappearing over the hill in a northerly direction. I didn't see any yellow cere and upon checking my Slater field guide when I got home it matched the juvenile description 100%. Unfortunately, I couldn't get my camera off my shoulder quick enough. I have seen 3 others over the years 2 near Cameron Corner about 2 years ago in June and one other near Broken Hill but what year i can't tell you. [Moderator's note (NH): With regards to an ongoing research project on Grey Falcons, we would appreciate if Todd and/or other observers can corroborate the sighting and ideally provide photo documentation]
		todd robert murphy 14/7 #218680
		Noisy Pitta Bermagui Boardwalk
		At least two Noisy Pittas observed today. Still in the same location as previous two records. One probable immature, as the partial pale gape was noticeable, but it did not have the streaking described in HANZAB. We were able to observe this particular bird for about an hour from only about 10 m away - it did not seem overly perturbed by our presence. Stood very still for some periods but also foraged amongst the leaf litter. A second bird called from several metres away, and there was the movement of a possible third.
		Mandy Anderson, Richard Nipperess 14/7 #218679
		Black Kite Grafton Regional Waste Depot, South Grafton
		1 in flight over Armidale Road at 09:24 hrs. First record at this site for quite a while.
		Russell Jago 14/7 #218676
		Yellow-faced Honeyeater Caniaba, Lismore NSW.
		Small numbers of overwintering Yellow-faced HE's and Scarlet and White-throated HE's responding to beginning of flowering of Grey Ironbark. Shining Bronze Cuckoo also overwintering.
		paul griffin 14/7 #218674
		Noisy Pitta Bermagui Boardwalk
		Following up from the recent post, only one Noisy Pitta was spotted near Bermagui.
		Steve Sass, Andrew Morrison, Harrison Warne 14/7 #218670
Sun 13		Black-browed and Indian Yellow-nosed Albatross Off Port Macquarie
		A single Black-browed Albatross and seven sightings of Indian Yellow-nosed Albatross plus at least six Fairy Prions and numerous Australasian Gannets were identified on the Hastings Birdwatchers Pelagic. With a six metre swell other sightings of Giant-Petrel sp. and two brief sightings of petrels were not identified.
		Peter West and eleven members from Hastings Birdwatchers 15/7 #218710
		Black Falcon 10km nw of Wagga Wagga
		Single Black Falcon flying low and fast across crops.
		Neville Schrader 15/7 #218698
		White-necked Heron Bobbin Head Rd, North Turramurra
		Single White-necked Heron flew east-west quite low (15-20 m) over my house approx 10:45am. Struggling a bit against the wind and a lot against the 3 or 4 Noisy Miners harassing it.
		Tom Wilson 14/7 #218673
		Noisy Pitta, Striated Heron Deep Creek Reserve Narrabeen
		Juvenile Striated Heron (photograph by Dave Vink) & Noisy Pitta in the area between the waterfall and the green bridge in late afternoon.
		Mike Barrow, Dave Vink 13/7 #218653
		Ruddy Turnstones Cowrie Hole near Newcastle Beach
		2 Ruddy Turnstones feeding on rock shelf
		Chris and Kate Aisbett 13/7 #218645
Sat 12		Buller's Albatross, Brown Skua Offshore--Sydney Pelagic
		Quiet trip with total lack of 'classic' winter species (such as Wandering-type Albatross, Cape Petrel...). Totals of 50 Black-browed Albatross, 4 Campbell Albatross (3 adult, 1 first year), 6 Shy/White-capped Albatross, 20 Indian Yellow-nosed Albatross, 6 adult Buller's Albatross (including a nice show of a trio), 1 juv. Northern Giant-Petrel, 30 Fairy Prion, 5 Providence Petrel, 3 Fluttering Shearwater, 6 Australasian Gannet, 100 Silver Gull, 5 Crested Tern, 3 adult White-fronted Tern, 5 Brown Skua (all at the same time!), 2 Humpback Whale, 5 Inshore Bottlenose Dolphin. For more detail see my eBird Checklist. The full trip report will be uploaded to the SOSSA website soon (under 'Further Information'). eBird checklist Further information
		Nikolas Haass for all on the Sydney Pelagic 15/7 #218700
		Black Falcon, Black Kite Lenaghan Drive, Lenaghan
		When we arrived at Lenaghan about 2 pm, we were greeted by another Black Falcon perched on top of a power line pole. After a minute or so it then took off and landed in a nearby tree and then came again to land on top of the same power line pole where we again got close up views of this Falcon. Other raptors present included several White-bellied Sea-eagles (in all stages of plumage), a few Swamp Harriers, a single Black Kite with several Whistling Kites. On my last visit to this site (29/3/14) I had 8 Black Kites as well as a single Black Falcon.
		Edwin Vella and Mark Fuller 13/7 #218668
		Australian Shelduck, Lewin's Rail, Black Falcon, over-wintering shorebirds Hexham Swamp Nature Reserve
		Good numbers of waterbirds present including a female Australian Shelduck, c 100 Red-necked Avocet and c 400 Black-winged Stilts, 3 Gull-billed Tern, 15-20 Australian Spotted and 3 Spotless Crakes, Lewin's Rail (good but brief view of a Lewin's Rail feeding out in the open where we also had both Crakes just mentioned in the same spot), an over-wintering Common Greenshank as well as a Marsh and 25 Sharp-tailed Sandpipers, at least 50 Red-kneed Dotterel, White-fronted Chats and a Black Falcon.
		Edwin Vella and Mark Fuller 13/7 #218667
		Noisy Pitta Bermagui Boardwalk
		At least two Noisy Pittas were seen at Bermagui on the NSW far south coast, the second bird (not photographed) did not have blue on the wing, but there appeared to be more than two birds. The boardwalk at end of Wallaga Street, Wallaga Lake. Walk to end of boardwalk then just past little hut you will come to shaded bush area along path where we found the pittas [Moderators' notes: This represents Australia's most southerly record for this species (TD). To get more than one vagrant Noisy Pitta is extraordinary (AKM). The records of the Eurobodalla Natural History Society show that the first record of this species in the area was of a juvenile in 2002 at nearby Akolele (Julie Morgan, Recorder, ENHS)] Further information
		Chris Hemmingsen 12/7 #218633
		Noisy Pitta, Bassian Thrush, Superb Lyrebird, Peregrine Falcon Deep Creek Reserve, Narrabeen
		Observed the Noisy PItta and Bassian Thrush foraging near the 1st birdge (small green wooden one) this afternoon. The Lyrebird was seen briefly near the freshwater dam on the other side of the creek. Finally the Peregrine Falcon was seen hunting for about 10 minutes above the dog park performing several short dives and then gliding through the top of the trees.
		Jayden Walsh 12/7 #218632
		Bassian Thrush Robertson area
		One bird by the side of Jamberoo Mountain Rd between Pheasant Ground Rd and Illawarra Fly turnoff.
		Lorne Johnson 12/7 #218627
		Pink-eared Ducks Wilford Lane Wetlands
		Three Pink-ears, which are seldom seen down this way, were seen this afternoon mixed in with a dozen Shovellers. These along with the usual suspects ie Chestnut & Grey Teal plus Wood Ducks. I strived to make some resting Grey Teal into Freckled ducks but failed badly when they moved off and showed themselves. Although there's 25 or so Freckled ducks and Hardhead still around the pond at Bada Cres in Dolphin Point which is at the opposite end of Burrill Lake from the wetlands.
		Bob Rusk 12/7 #218626
		Buff-banded Rail, Eastern Spinebill Scarborough Park Ramsgate
		Rail emerging from dense undergrowth in swampy area(near short bridge by tennis courts when it got bombed by the Noisy Miners and made quick retreat. Three Eastern Spinebills(in the horse paddock) were a surprise, as I haven't seen one here for years
		Oliver Williams 12/7 #218621
Fri 11		Black-necked Stork, Freckled Duck, Swamp Harrier McPherson Rd Swamp, Tuggerah
		An immature Black-necked Stork was first seen by John and Carole Carpenter at 800hrs at McPherson Rd Swamp, Tuggerah. The bird was still present at 1330hrs. This is the first Black-necked Stork report for the Central Coast in 2014. Two birds were present at the nearby Central Coast Wetlands in 2013 on a number of occasions. At least 3 Freckled Ducks and a Swamp Harrier were also seen there this morning, the Freckled Ducks roosting at the far western edge of the wetland.
		Carole & John Carpenter, Alan Morris, Steve Merrett photo 11/7 #218604
		Pale-headed Rosella Tracker Walford trail, Walgett
		2 Pale-headed Rosellas close to the start of the track. [Moderator's note (NH): While there are no records of Eastern Rosella in the Walgett area, there is a number of records of Pale-headed Rosella for this area logged on Eremaea]
		Martin butterfield 13/7 #218664
		Pale-headed Rosella Wagga Wagga, NSW
		Single individual observed 4 times between 7:45am and 9:00am, by Kirk Koschel. Individual initially observed in a Cassia sp tree, later in a Melaleuca sp tree, and finally photographed in a Eucalyptus sp. tree at the intersection of Edney Street and Faye Avenue, Kooringal, Wagga Wagga, NSW (35º08’26.58”S 147º22’43.70” E, 214m ASL) before dispersing out of sight within the time-frame stated as above. 3 possible explanations account for this birds presence: 1) its possible the individual may have been an escapee however the bird’s behaviour suggests a wild individual, & no bands or tags evident indicative of captive history; 2) the bird is a pioneer due to range shifting / displacement due to climate change / variability; or 3) the bird may be a disorientated vagrant due to recent inclement weather. Whichever explanation applies, this bird is a LONG way outside of its natural range. (Moderator's note: The normal range for NSW in western NSW is north of Coonamble, so I go for an escapee, especially when you consider that the recent inclement weather was from the south-west and not from the north; this bird is of the northern race found in Cape York (P.a.palliceps) and not the normal race for NSW;and the bird was in the suburbs.AKM)
		Kirk Koschel 11/7 #218608
		Australian Wood Duck Eulah Creek
		The attached photo shows two clutches of Australian Wood Ducklings on a farm dam 20 km East of Narrabri seen today. They must be a few weeks old already, having hatched in June, meaning that the birds are breeding right through the coldest part of winter. The LOCAL night time temperatures, here on a shallow slope in the foothills of the range, so far have been moderate, down to 0 or -1 C. Elsewhere in the region where cold air settles at night (Narrabri township; South of town; at distances of 15-35 km) I have not observed breeding activity. There the night time temperatures currently go down to -3 to -5 C, suggesting that Australian Wood Ducks may have a sense of very localized weather conditions. Further information
		Michael Dahlem 11/7 #218607
		Ground Cuckoo-shrike Eulah Creek
		When last reported on 25 June 2014 (report #218382), a family clan of Ground Cuckoo-shrikes had been observed several times flying to the South in the mornings. Today I saw a group of 5 come in FROM the South at about 13:00. They settled down in the area to forage in paddocks (both recently cut and others with tall grass), calling repeatedly and loudly. They were still busy in a nearby paddock when last seen - their direction of departure is unknown. More calls were recorded ("Further information" link). Further information
		Michael Dahlem 11/7 #218605
		Australian Brush-turkey Yellomundee Regional Park, near Penrith
		One Brush-turkey seen along the privet and lantana infested Shaw's Creek about 200m from the Nepean River. This is the first of this species I have seen at this location or indeed in outer western Sydney. Yellomundee is on the western side of the Nepean abutting the Blue Mountains NP where there have been rare sightings although more common at Mt Wilson on the Bells-line-of-road.
		Mark Ley 11/7 #218602
Thu 10		Red-necked Avocet, Black Falcon Barooga
		A small flock of Red-necked Avocets seen on a large wetland by the Mulwala Rd. A very rare bird locally. A pair of Black Falcons flew over the wetland as well spooking a large flock of Grey Teal. Further information
		Michael Ramsey 10/7 #218598
		Black Bittern Deep Water Park Milperra
		Black Bittern at the first pond along the Blue Gum Farm entry to Deepwater Park this morning at about 8 am. ML got this record shot despite the poor light. Looks like it might be an immature bird, not adult female owing to pale forehead and short yellow neck stripe, but not juvenile owing to absence of buff fringes on upperparts. Immature plumages and transition to adult poorly known (HANZAB). Comments on the ageing are welcomed. 2nd sighting this week and 5th this year at the site for DJ.
		David James and Marie Lister 10/7 #218597
		Pink-eared Duck Royal National Park (Wattle Flat)
		A single Pink-eared duck this morning about 8:45. On the water opposite the picnic area.
		Roger Giller 10/7 #218596
		Black-necked Stork Private property on Ivers rd Kew
		Single bird observed in marshland by Camden Haven Bird Group. Other highlights included; Wedge-tailed Eagle, Whistling Kite, Swamp Harrier. Some 60 species observed by the group in the Kew area.
		Stephen Gallivan 10/7 #218594
		Noisy Pitta, Bassian Thrush, White-headed Pigeon Deep Creek Reserve, Narrabeen
		Saw the Noisy Pitta today at sunrise, and two Bassian Thrushes with it. The Pitta came very close and I snapped some ID shots with my phone. In the area around the waterfall. Also, two White-headed Pigeons hanging around, and a lot of smaller bird action later on. I was most surprised and delighted to catch a brief glimpse of what I think was a Spot-tailed Quoll on the escarpment above the waterfall. [Moderator's note (NH): The possible Spot-tailed Quoll is very exciting. Has anyone else seen this species in this area?]
		Henry Coleman 10/7 #218593
		White-backed Swallow, Grey Goshawk Biniguy
		A pair of White-backed Swallows were observed hawking above the Gwydir River near Biniguy. A very active and secretive Grey Goshawk was also found. Further information
		Curtis Hayne and Ainslee Lines 10/7 #218592
Wed 9		Black-breasted Buzzard approximately 30km south of Louth, western NSW
		2 Black-breasted Buzzards seen soaring over floodplain woodland.
		David Charley 15/7 #218692
		Black Falcon Paroo-Darling Natinal Park, NE of Whitecliffs
		A pair observed hunting and flying through and over Mulga woodland near Peery Lake.
		David Charley 15/7 #218690
		Lewin's and Buff-banded Rails, Spotless and Australian Spotted Crakes Hexham Swamp
		Whilst looking for wintering shorebirds on Hexham Swamp yesterday 3 Lewin's Rails, 8 Buff-banded Rails, 6 Spotless Crakes and 20+ Spotted Crakes were seen. Photograph taken by Chris Herbert of 3 species feeding together attached.
		Chris Herbert and Liz Crawford per Mick Roderick 10/7 #218591
		(Eastern) Yellow Wagtail, Sharp-tailed Sandpiper, Marsh Sandpiper Hexham Swamp
		The (Eastern) Yellow Wagtail is still being seen on Hexham Swamp. I saw it twice briefly on Tuesday afternoon 08/07, on both occasions quite obviously associating with White-fronted Chats. It has now been more than 2 weeks since the initial sighting (22nd June) and given the number of Yellow Wagtails present here in summer/autumn it is plausible that this is an over-wintering bird. A photo taken on the 2nd July by Max Blanch is attached. I have found the bird extremely difficult to photograph as it has been favouring vegetation away from the track when I have seen/heard it. It would be great if we could get some high-resolution images of the bird. A bit of a surprise was 4 Sharp-tailed Sandpipers seen yesterday 09/07 (although distant, considered likely juveniles), for which there are very few July records in the Hunter. Also 2 Marsh Sandpipers, 5 Greenshanks 4 Curlew Sands. Some good numbers of crakes and rails seen by other observers (will post separately) and the 2 Black-necked Storks still present. There are still 100+ Red-kneed Dotterel and 1500+ Grey Teal along with the supporting cast. The place is stunning at the moment!
		Mick Roderick 10/7 #218590
		Australian Shelduck Awabakal Nature Reserve (Dudley)
		Whilst watching whales out to sea from Dudley Bluff in Awabakal Nature Reserve, a single Australian Shelduck flew past, about 50 m above the ocean, headed in a northerly direction. I did a big double-take as it was a most unexpected bird in the situation. Australian Shelducks are very scarce in the Newcastle area too. Lots of gannets (>100) out to sea too - every bird seen was an adult.
		Mick Roderick 9/7 #218583
Tue 8		Regent Honeyeater Chiltern Trail, Ingleside
		Still returning to its favourite place, the clump of gums with some rusted metal fragments among the fire-blacked trees. Also seen: Red and Little Wattlebirds. Yellow-faced, White-naped, New Holland, White-cheeked and Yellow-tufted Honeyeaters, Eastern Spinebill and Rainbow Lorikeet. Noisy Friarbird sounding off out of sight.
		Jeff Melvaine 10/7 #218589
		Swift Parrot Terrace Road, North Richmond
		10+ Swift Parrots feeding on lerps and ironbark blossoms. Previous site for Swift Parrots.
		David Potter 8/7 #218576
		Eastern Osprey Milperra
		1 Eastern Osprey flying over the former Riverlands Golf Course about 1 pm, viewed from my yard.
		David James 8/7 #218567
		Little Lorikeet Riverside Park, Riverside Rd, Chipping Norton
		Over 50, perhaps a hundred Little Lorikeets feeding in flowering Blue Boxes, Euc. baueriana. 1 female Satin Bowerbird in a Syzigium, 5+ Dusky Woodswallows, several Yellow-rumped Thornbills, an adult Olive-backed Oriole (not calling), a few Fuscous Honeyeaters amongst the numerous winter flocks of Yellow-faced Honeyeaters, and a calling Striated Pardalote. Fan-tailed Cuckoos were calling and one that flushed (with a ruffled vent) from knee-high in a dense bush may have been looking to lay in a nest of White-browed Scrubwren?
		David James 8/7 #218566
Mon 7		Olive Whistler immature Porter Creek Dam Road, 15 km north of Milton
		Olive Whistler was a great surprise today, I have been after one for a long time and finally came across one along with a few honeyeaters: White-naped Honeyeater, Yellow-faced Honeyeater, Fuscous Honeyeater and New Holland Honeyeater, over 10 Grey-shrike Thrush, Crimson Rosellas, Superb Lyrebird and a number of Satin Bowerbird along the road all in a cold windy overcast day.
		Charles Dove 7/7 #218559
		Sacred Kingfisher Newington Nature Reserve
		One late Sacred Kingfisher, also Double-barred Finches
		Tony & Stephanie Dawe 7/7 #218555
		Noisy Pitta, Russet-tailed Thrush, Australian Spotted Crake. Kooloonbung Creek Nature Park
		Both the Noisy Pitta and Russet-tailed Thrush were seen on the western side of the park on the ground feeding, close to the Guide Hall about mid day. Later at the south eastern end of the walk around the park an Australian Spotted Crake was heard calling right beside the board walk where the creek from Wyandra Crescent flows under the board walk.
		Ian Kerr 7/7 #218554
		Black Falcon Berrima Rd, Moss Vale
		Seen flying over paddocks not far from Charlston Dam site.
		Martin Filipczyk 7/7 #218549
		Black Bittern Deep Water Park Milperra
		A female Black Bittern flushed from the margins of the first pond at the Blue Gum Farm entrance, and perched in the open for over a minute. My fourth sighting here since early April. Otherwise an average visit with 51 species recorded in 1.5 hrs
		David James 7/7 #218547
Sun 6		Hall's Babbler, White-backed Swallow, Black Honeyeater, Pied Honeyeater, White-fronted Honeyeater Mutawintji National Park
		Honeyeaters common on plains where they were displaying and feeding on various Eremophila. Small part of 3 Hall's Babbler seen in Mulga woodland at approximate area where seen in the mid-1980's. White-backed Swallows seen daily flying over camp and gorges.
		David Charley 15/7 #218691
		White-fronted Chat Mutawintji National Park, NE of Broken Hill
		Small party observed feeding on flat - 2 adult males and 2 adult females.
		David Charley 15/7 #218689
		Glossy Black-Cockatoo Dharug National Park -Mill Creek area
		Nice view of 3 Glossy Black-Cockatoos quietly feeding in casuarinas about 4 km along the 11-km Mill Creek Track circuit if you head out in an anticlockwise direction. [Moderator's note (NH): The main picnic site at Dharug National Park has been a reliable site for this species]
		Cameron Ward, Janette Ward 6/7 #218542
		Wedge-tailed Eagle (x2) Castlereagh
		I saw my local female hunting low near Castlereagh Road with her young from last year at 15:30 today. It was amazing to watch the pair float with the strong westerly winds. Picture of young eagle attached. Yesterday, I also saw one adult in the same area at around 12:00, midday.
		Ákos Lumnitzer 6/7 #218540
		Swift Parrot Mulgoa Nature Reserve, Glenmore Park, Western Sydney
		4 Swift Parrots feeding silently on lerps in Grey Box, 490 m from gate eastwards on Dillwynia Drive fire trail. Bell Miners all around and unsuccessfully trying to shift the parrots 33deg 47' 57"s 150deg 40' 21"E at 2 pm.
		Chris Gladwin 6/7 #218533
Sat 5		Spotted Harrier Coomaditchie Lagoon, Primbee
		My first sighting in 25yrs of this species at this site (Coomaditchy Lagoon Reserve, Port Kembla). It was hunting along the ridge on the east side of the lagoon. It disappeared in a westerly direction. Note: The Barbary Dove reported a week ago has not been seen in 3 visits.
		Paul Lynch 5/7 #218527
		Wandering-type Albatross, Buller's Albatross, Fairy Prion, Eastern Osprey Wattamolla, Royal National Park
		Highlights from a sea watch off the Royal National Park today was 1 Wandering-type Albatross and 4 Buller's Albatross, 10+ Fairy Prions and 1 Eastern Osprey just off the headland.
		michael ronan 5/7 #218523
		Spotless Crake Warriewood Wetlands
		Three Spotless Crakes sighted and photographed at about 10:30 a.m. at Warriewood Wetlands near the housing development ponds, where previous sightings have occurred.
		Michael Hanvey, Chris Chafer 5/7 #218521
		Nankeen Kestrel Menai
		Perched on power wires on Old Illawarra Road, just south of Barry Rd. Appeared to be hunting as it flew into scrub below and returned to perch several times. Our first local sighting in the 12 years we have lived here.
		Roger and Bev Giller 5/7 #218512
Fri 4		Letter-winged Kite Hume Hwy 25 km east of Yass
		One Letter-winged Kite seen from passenger side of travelling car at 20 to 30 m distance. A clear view of the black under wing mark extending to the body. [Moderator's note (NH): There were very few reports of Letter-winged Kite in recent years].
		Ian Samson 9/7 #218586
		Ruddy Turnstone, Black-browed Albatross Soldiers Point, Norah Head
		5 Ruddy Turnstones were feeding on the rock shelf. 4 Black-browed Albatross were loafing on the water approx. 6-700 m offshore.
		Carl Clifford 5/7 #218515
		Regent Honeyeater Chiltern Trail, Ingleside
		One Regent Honeyeater seen; still in the clump of gums 650 m from gate. Also both Wattlebirds, White-naped, New Holland and Yellow-faced Honeyeaters, Eastern Spinebill, Spotted Pardalote, Spangled Drongo
		Jeff Melvaine 5/7 #218514
		Noisy Pitta; Southern Boobook Deep Creek Reserve, Narrabeen
		A single Noisy Pitta was seen foraging under palms between first bridge and waterfall; a pair of Southern Boobooks were roosting in the casaurinas below the rockface.
		Sue Chatfield (in company) 4/7 #218508
		Red-rumped Parrot Long Reef Sydney
		Long Reef carpark, northern end, near the walking track behind the surf club. SIngle male Red-rumped Parrot flew in from the beach side over the surf club, fed on the grass seeds for about five minutes then flew off in the direction of the golf course.
		Paul Oudhof 4/7 #218506
		Restless Flycatcher Slade's Park Budgewoi
		A very vocal Restless Flycatcher was photographed in the tree tops at Slades Park Budgewoi at 11am yesterday, it was still there at 4pm. I have checked at 10am this morning and it is still vocal and present.
		Steven Merrett 4/7 #218490
		Lewin's Rail, Superb Lyrebird (3), Bassian Thrush (2) Bangalee Reserve, Nowra.
		Very exciting to see that the Lewin's Rail is still around despite weed control that threatens its habitat. My third recording of this bird over 2-3 years. Superb Lyrebird (3) and Bassian Thrush (2) in the picnic area.
		Ann Millard 4/7 #218488
Thu 3		Black-eared Cuckoo, White-fronted Honeyeater Broken Hill
		Black-eared Cuckoo hunting hairy caterpillars in Acacia shrublands. Several honeyeaters - including White-fronted Honeyeater - in same area.
		David Charley 15/7 #218696
		Jacky Winter, Torresian Crow Wallaby Gully Road, Ellalong
		3 Jacky Winters on private property on corner of Wallaby Gully Rd and Q4 fire road. Other species of note: 2 Torresian Crows, 10 White-winged Choughs, Rose Robin, Brown Cuckoo-Dove, Wonga Pigeon and one Bar-shouldered Dove heard mid-morning. [Moderator's note (NH): Mick Roderick just told me that Jacky Winter is likely locally declining; Torresian Crow now occurs regularly on the Central Coast and have recently been reported around Kariong/Wamberal (AKM)]
		Lorne Johnson 4/7 #218497
		Square-tailed Kite Seahampton area
		One Square-tailed Kite gliding near Sugarloaf Mountain Reserve - seen from George Booth Drive.
		Lorne Johnson 4/7 #218495
		Emerald Dove, Grey Goshawk, Little Eagle Coledale
		1 Emerald Dove in subtropical rainforest on private property at the back of Coledale. Uncommon species in the Illawarra. Also 2 Grey Goshawks chasing a Little Eagle circling low overhead.
		Martin Schulz 3/7 #218485
		Scaly-breasted Lorikeet, Nankeen Night-heron Deep Water Park, Milperra
		Scaly-breasted, Musk, Little and Rainbow Lorikeets present, although in lower numbers than a few weeks ago. Scaly-breasted and Rainbow Lorikeets checking out nesting hollows. Nankeen Night-heron still present on island. Further information
		Troy Mutton 3/7 #218483
		(Eastern) Yellow Wagtail, Black-necked Stork, White-fronted Chat Hexham Swamp
		The Yellow Wagtail reported from Hexham Swamp last week was seen today by Dan Williams and myself. It was also seen yesterday by Max Blanch. It appears to be favouring a section of track about 1km north of the intersection with the Shamrock Street track. We only had poor flight and 'flitting about' views into the sun, which was frustrating as I had the camera at the ready (to no avail). Also on the swamp were ~25 Curlew Sandpipers, 5 Red-necked Stint, 5 Common Greenshank and 1 Marsh Sandpiper. Amongst many other birds (the swamp is in good form!), there were also 2 adult Black-necked Storks perched in a stand of she-oak trees, ~100 Red-kneed Dotterel, 30 Black-fronted Dotterel, a Red-capped Plover, a Gull-billed Tern, a few Buff-banded Rails and Spotted Crakes, ~1000 Grey Teal and small flocks of White-fronted Chat (the largest being 11 birds counted).
		Mick Roderick and Dan Williams 3/7 #218476
		Flame Robin, Scarlet Robin, Spotted Quail-thrush, Varied Sitella Old Adaminaby
		Several excellent views of Scarlet and Flame Robins over the last few days, with snow on the ground and frozen ponds and puddles. 3 Spotted Quail-thrush this morning, a single Red-browed Treecreeper (amongst many White-throated Treecreepers) and a single Varied (Orange-winged) Sittella. Surprised to see a flock of 30+ Brown-headed Honeyeaters, I thought they left the snow country in winter. The most common woodland birds are Striated, Yellow-rumped and Brown Thornbills, White-eared Honeyeater, Grey Shrike-thrush and Crimson Rosella.
		David James 3/7 #218475
Wed 2		Pacific Baza Milray Street Lindfield Sydney
		Spotted a juvenile Pacific Baza for the first time, perched at the top of a tree in our garden. It was being hassled by every bird in the neighbourhood who seemed to take great exception to it being there and it hasn't returned since.
		Richard Wilkins 8/7 #218561
		Marsh Sandpiper, Red-necked Stint, Red-capped Plover, Brolga, Black-necked Stork Cotton Farm, Ashley
		Large flocks of 50+ Red-capped Plovers have arrived once again, in winter to several farm irrigation dams. They have not been seen here since last July (2013). 7 Red-necked Stints were also found among them which are very rare here. A single Marsh Sandpiper (best photo attached) was also observed, a very unusual observation for the middle of winter. A total of 18 Red-necked Avocets were spotted. 2 Brolgas were also observed in an irrigation dam which we have not seen here before. An adult male Black-necked Stork was observed closely in a channel. 2 Black Falcons were observed beautifully. Also seen were 500+ Pink-eared Ducks, 4 Spotted Harriers & 4 Brown Goshawks (mostly immature). Further information
		Curtis Hayne and Ainslee Lines 5/7 #218528
		Beach Stone-Curlew Shark Bay, Bundjalung NP
		A single bird at the sandy point near the reef at Shark Bay. Wasn't banded, and I understand many of the birds in this stretch of coast are 'known', so would be interesting to know its origin. Also on the reef a couple of Double-banded Plovers and some overwintering Red-necked Stints.
		Nick Leseberg 5/7 #218510
		Powerful Owl Wallaby Gully Road, Ellalong
		One Powerful Owl calling at 8pm.
		Lorne Johnson 4/7 #218494
		(Regent Honeyeater), Superb Lyrebird Chiltern Trail, Ingleside
		I didn't see any Regent Honeyeaters on Wednesday but someone else had a brief sighting of one before I arrived. Close sighting of a Superb Lyrebird at about 1:30 pm in dense bushland about 30 metres to left of trail, well past the Regent Honeyeater spots. Nothing else of interest aside from some Spotted Pardalotes.
		Michael Hanvey 2/7 #218470
		Double-barred, Red-browed & Zebra Finches Castlereagh River, on Merryula rd, 6 km SW Ulamambri
		A mixed flock of 20+ Red-browed Finches, 5 Double-barred Finches and 12 Zebra Finches feeding on the river bank at the side of the road. Other birds present included Nankeen Kestrel, Pied Butvcherbird, Superb Fairy-wren and White-plumed Honeyeaters. I have not previously had any Finches at this site.
		Alan Morris 2/7 #218468
		Spangled Drongo Scarborough Park,Ramsgate
		In backyard tree near the baseball pitches/ behind Darrell Lea
		Oliver Williams 2/7 #218464