While I'm on a roll and hopefully not boring anyone, I'll add a couple more. We left Cloncurry for a night at Hughenden before travelling the Kennedy Development road to Bedrock Village in the little town of Mt Surprise. Fortunately, the road was open as it was closed by flooding when we left home. There was a lot of roadwork (which it needs) and that created other problems as it made the dust horrendous... stopping till it settled in order to pass a road works truck. We stopped at Porcupine Gorge (worth a visit) where I saw Squatter Pigeons and then to where the Gregory Highway joins,The Lynd Junction, for a rest stop (only to find the roadhouse closed as were the loos!). So we had to keep going and overshoot to Forty Mile Scrub for lunch and a pit stop. This is an interesting spot as it is a dry Rainforest with semi-evergreen vine thicket. Look it up!
Finally we could turn back and head for Bedrock Village at Mount Surprise. This whole area is an old volcanic zone and covered in rocks (hence the name) and the Undarra lava tubes are nearby... well worth a visit if you get the chance. O'Brien's Creek runs near the property and there is a little track down to it ...but you need to tread carefully with all the rocks hidden in the grass. They have their own pizza oven so people pre-order and gather for a meal in the camp kitchen around an open fire, a couple of times a week. I really enjoy this place as the people running it are lovely and birding can be very good. Only a couple of new birds for the list.
301 Pheasant Coucal... they go high in the trees and stay there when they spot you so not too bad considering the backlight, height and leaves. Quite a large bird and the only cuckoo that builds a nest in Australia. I could hear them calling as I walked along the rocky path but I was not prepared to venture too far into the long dry grass. I was surprised not to see any earlier in the trip.
302 Squatter Pigeon... saw a couple at Porcupine Gorge but this one was a better sighting. We went for a walk as the sun was going down and I spied this bird across the road. 'Surely not a Squatter Pigeon but best check' said I and what a pleasant surprise. It stayed put as I crossed the road and crept closer (taking photos every so often in case it flew) but finally took off ... reappearing down near some long grass but in fading light. No fact sheet
Thanks Dale, they are beautiful birds and characters as are most Lorikeets. It was wonderful to find them again.
This trip was quite different being winter and years of dought had broken in most areas so it was much greener (and wetter) than in past years. The birds were there but not as concentrated and some were quite difficult to locate. Blossom was down as were insects. Also the number of travellers was much greater so little spots like the lookouts at Timber Creek had numbers of visitors... to disturb my stalking. For so many people, it was a release from the years of lockdowns and a celebration of our wonderful country... plenty of beautiful places to explore. I am lucky to have time and energy enough to get out there.
Thanks Abby. Thought the differences might be interesting.
I've finally processed all the new birds for the year although awaiting some ID confirmation on a couple. I also have some raptor shots still to do but a bit time poor. Car in getting repaired after my tree encounter and the new artworks gathered on our travels are now framed. Also, after the freak accident at home: older painting awaiting new frame (after the sudden snap of the cord), 200 year old glass-sided clock being repaired (after the painting fell on it!) and home & contents insurance adjusted as accidental damage not covered (not sure when that changed!!!). The Channel-billed Cuckoos are still flying over the house but I don't have the energy to get out the camera and wait for them.
Continuing our travels, we left the dry old volcanic area of Mt Surprise for Atherton on the tablelands above Cairns. Here there are old volcanoes like Mt Hypipamee with its water-filled crater and the countryside is lush and damp. Numerous waterfalls and lakes to be seen. Beautiful areas to drive through but winding hilly roads which are often damp and sport signs warning of Tree kangaroos and Cassowaries.The mist can take some time to clear as was the case while we stayed. So the light was not great and photography a bit challenging with light rain in some places.
A few from the stunning Atherton Tablelands despite the weather. Most of these lack Fact Sheets.
303 Sarus Crane... a truly awful shot in the early morning mist at Hasties Swamp as they flew off to the cane fields... this is processed to death to show the red extending down the neck much further than on a Brolga but not sure the pale pink of the legs is evident. I did see them again feeding in the fields but was unable to stop and on my return they were flying off. On other occasions, we have stood and watched as massive flocks of Sarus Cranes and Brolgas have flown to their night time roost in the early evening.
304 Bridled Honeyeater... the sun finally came out so I walked the grounds and found some feeding on the Bottlebrush. An unusual pattern behind the eye and a two-toned bill make it quite striking.
305 Bush Stone-curlew... seen in a number of places on the trip but these two were very obliging and the plummage looked very fresh. Front and back views. We stopped at a little park and they came to check us out. Great looking birds with those long legs and big eyes but the sound they make at night is quite disturbing!
306 Brown Cuckoo-dove... siting very quietly at Lake Barrine when we went for a scenic drive. The cafe was closed but the birds were abundant as were the flowers in the garden. I could hear others like Green Catbirds but they stayed deep in the foliage this time and we needed to find coffee (or rather my driver did!).
307 Wompoo Fruit-dove... a large beautifully coloured bird... one of a pair that flew into a palm at Lake Barrine as we walked about. That yellow extends right under the wing and the purple is beautiful contrast. I think that the palm fruit was their goal. I saw another in Cooktown sitting quietly under the tree canopy and showing off the yellow underwing.
308 Atherton Scrubwren... a pair were working the low undergrowth and fallen logs at Mt Hypipamee without venturing further up the trees. They are very dark but like a Large-billed Scrubwren except for foraging habits as the latter goes up the trees. I had the ID confirmed on ABID to confirm my suspicions.
309 Grey-headed Robin... a regular at Mt Hypipamee but again awful weather as raining on and off. I stuck around the carpark and early trail rather than tackling the whole walk in wet conditions as slippery and wet camera gear is not my idea of fun. The light was also marginally better around the car park clearing than further in. This is quite a large robin and is worth comparing to the Buff-sided Robin (253) from Timber Creek.
310 Pied Monarch... quite surprised when this bird flew in at Mt Hypipamee and started working a tree. I had the short lens on (200mm) so it was a bit distant but quite identifiable with that blue eye-ring and pied colouring. No frill to the neck. I could keep this short lens drier and it stopped down to f2.8 which was better in the poor light conditions. I have not seen these birds that often so i was quite thrilled by the brief visit.
After hearing a Golden Bowerbird, I ventured deeper into the forest but numerous leeches attached to my shoes and I was reluctant to provide them sustenance. Therefore, I backed out, cleaned off the shoes and went back to staying around the carpark where I have seen various Bowerbirds and Cassowaries in the past. The Pale-yellow Robin kept flying in to work the side of the trees but I'll save that for later. As I did not venture to the crater, I missed the Peregrine Falcons roosting there. If any of you get up that way then it is a must-do.
Finally a few extras because I quite like them
replacement/ extra 74 Plumed Whistling-ducks... coming in to land at Hasties Swamp where they are as numerous and noisy as the Magpie Geese.
replacement/ extra 216 Domestic fowl... seen at Atherton township in a little park. The rooster was calling and such a beauty whereas the Musgovy Duck was just the opposite... not exactly beautiful.
Finally a treat just for Dale... Amethystine Pyton crossing the road and stopping me as I left Hasties Swamp. I waited patiently but eventually had to shoo it back off the road before it was squashed. It took up a lot of roadnad would have been killed if another car drove past. A common snake which I have encountered in bird-hides in the past.
From a misty Atherton, we drove to Cairns and stayed out near the Crystal Cascades before my husband flew home and my son flew in. I had 4 nights out near the Cascades, picked up my son from the airport and we headed to Kingfisher Lodge at Julatten for a couple of nights. Then it was on to Cooktown before returning to Cairns to stay near the Esplanade. So I'lll leave all the Cairns shots until later.
Julatten is a wonderful place with some great birds but 2 nights is not long enough as I really only had one day birding. Cooktown was a good drive of only 232 km with plenty to see but was quite tiring for me. Also there was a necessary stop at Mount Carbine for a special bird.
I did the morning walk with Carol to get my bearings, like hearing the Cryptic Honeyeater call and seeing where some of the birds were roosting before driving to a few places with my son and lunching at Mount Molloy. The two of us did go out at night to see the nearby Barn Owls. Magic place but I was abit unlucky and did not see the Red-necked Crake this visit. The long verandah is the place to sit at night and await a visit. Sadly there was no time for Mt Lewis and the Blue-faced Parrot-finch were no shows in the other spot. Lots of missing Fact Sheets.
311 Large-billed Scrubwren... awful shot but you can see the similarity to the Atherton Scrubwren. However, this one was ID'd at the time and was quite high in the bushes. If I stayed longer then it would have been easier.
312 Pale-yellow Robin ssp nana... a litle bird which in typical robin fashion clings to the side of a tree trunk before flying down to the ground for prey. The buff-tinged lores distinguish this sub-species.
313 Macleay's Honeyeater... a beautiful rainforest bird with striking patination and colour. Very common in this area but quite limited in range.
314 Spectacled Monarch... not a great shot but quite identifiable. Tthey do come to Sydney but earlier in the year.
315 Topknot Pigeon... a treat to have these birds fly in as we were doing the morning walk. Apparently those particular berries are quite attractive to birds but I cannot recall the name. Apparently, these birds are expanding their range as they first appeared in East Gippsland in the 1990s but are now regular in the summer. Pleased to hear that Danika found them in NSW.
316 Papuan Frogmouth... a bird I was hoping to see and this pair did not disappoint as they roosted low, just above head height. On other occasions they have been high up and so obscured by vines and leaves that I needed help to even spot them. Of course, all down to Carol's knowledge of the area as she included this pair in the morning walk. Note the large white spots on the wing-coverts. Sorry that the eye stayed closed so the red was not seen.
317 Brown-capped Emerald-dove... awful shot in fading light from Julatten
318 Eastern Yellow Robin... seen at Abattoir's Swamp when we ventured out for the day. I was surprised to find that I had not posted one earlier. This bird was literally at our feet looking for insects and posed so close that I had to back off a bit.
319 Little Shrike-thrush... another from the car park at Abattoir's Swamp. We were sitting having a snack when it came by and the light was much better here than in my earlier attempts at Julatten. Bower's Shrike-thrush is also found in the area but it has a dark bill unlike this bird.
320 Brown-backed Honeyeater... again at Abattoir's Swamp but this time down near the birdhide. They were in the paperbarks off the boardwalk. Probably another blossom nomad as I have seen them in many places. An attractive little bird for one that is essentailly just brown and white. Some (introduced?) plant has taken over the swamp, there is little open water now and I think the fight is lost. However, that means different birds are around.
321 White-cheeked Honeyeater... another shot from Julatten at the edge of the cane fields. Surprised that I had not already posted this birds as they are not uncommon in NSW.
322 Yellow-faced Honeyeater awful shot in poor light of another bird that I had missed posting earlier.
Now for the similar ones that are so confusing as they are all found here!
323 Lewin's Honeyeater... fairly easy to ID by the bue-grey iris and grey patch between eye and ear-patch, apart from its size.
324 Graceful (Cryptic) Honeyeater... terrible shot of what I heard as a Cryptic Honeyeater. Sounds need to be freshly heard & ID'd for me (which Carol had been doing just before-hand) as not my strong suit. I also checked on ABID and we agree on ID. Blue-grey iris and no grey before the ear-patch apart from call.
325 Yellow-spotted Honeyeater... first poor shot from Julatten and second from Cooktown. Also checked on ABID and consensus is Yellow-spotted. Dark eye, olive between eye and eyepatch, pale yellow fleshy gape. Really hard to separate the last two and bill shape was not good from the angle of my photos. Good clear shots of many angles do help!
325 Spangled Drongo... a lovely metallic spangles and 'fish' tail with a great red eye and a forehead dusted with pollen. Cannot recall the name of this South American tree but it is spectacular and the birds all love the flowers. Saw them in a few places but I like this shot even with a soft focus on the body.
326 Australian Bustard... the special bird from Mount Carbine as we drove to Cooktown. Around this time of year, the males display and drop a large throat sac towards the ground as they strut around. A metre high, they hold the head slightly tilted up and look quite 'snooty'. We just missed the display of a large male which walked off into tall grasses so settled for this one albeit inside the fence line. Coming back from Cooktown, I had to slow as one sauntered across the main road.
An interesting point: Mount Carbine and Mount Molloy are not mountains and apparently were misnamed at some stage when the MT for mining town was misinterpreted.
A couple of extras
replacement/ extra 3 Australian Figbird... from Julatten, a colourful male enjoying some berries
replacement/ extra 252 White-throated Honeyeater... from Abattoir's Swamp
Getting towards the end now but a few lovelies still to come.
Wow Sue, some epic birds in that lot. Hard to choose a favourite, so I will stick with the Amethystine Python, but I reckon the Pied Monarch is a close = 2nd with all the others.
Looks like if I am any chance of catching you guys, I better get a photo of the Red-footed Jungle Fowl (AKA domestic rooster).
Cooktown is a beautiful place like a big country town but can be windy. Indeed, one night was blowing a gale and the rains fell, but next day was beautiful. There is a museum with displays concerning the time Cook spent there mending his ship, the Endeavour, his interactions with the locals and more history of the area. A beautiful old building and a great display. Stunning sunsets even with the phone.
On the road to Cooktown, you pass Black Mountain and there is an indigenous story about its origin involving two brothers fighting over a girl and ignoring the impending storm until too late... all three died. The mountain is bare apart from large black granite boulders which is totally different to surrounding green zones. Sorry just a phone pic.
Finally to this one bird seen at Keating's Lagoon in Cooktown. A lovely spot but super-sized mozzies at times.
328 Rufous Fantail... makes a nice comparison to (267) the Arafura Fantail from Kakadu, NT. Thought i'd managed a great flight shot but the head was blurred so here is the classic pose of a sweet little bird. This one followed us as we walked the path around the lagoon but birds were in low numbers this day.
Now for Cairns, from the cool Crystal Cascades to the humid, mosquito ridden Espalande and Cattana Wetlands. I also went the Botanical Gardens and Centenary Lakes but few birds. However all these areas are worth a visit if you are in the area. Lots of missing Fact Sheets.
329 Yellow-breasted Boatbill... this little flycatcher was a treat. Appears to be a female with that 'dirty looking' chest. I had been told by a cyclist that he had just seen a Double-eyed Fig-parrot in a particular tree but it was on dusk and 3 kms to walk so I went next morning and dipped on the parrot but nicely rewarded for my effort. I'll post a few shots so you can see the shape of the bill from which the name is derived. It is always a pleasure to see them and I think a lucky sighting here as I've only seen them in Julatten.
330 Metallic Starling... another lucky timing as they had only just sarted arriving up the road from our cabin. We drove in and saw no sign of them where usually the trees are covered in nests and birds but next morning, there were a couple and by next day even more with nests underway. Adults are stunning birds with those red eyes and metallic sheen and I've included an immature one for comparison. My husband watched them coming and going from the surrounding palm trees as they gathered nesting material.
331 Torresian (Collared) Kingfisher... a powerful looking bird with a huge bill seen hunting in the mangroves at the end of the Esplanade. I also saw one in Darwin and too large to be confused with a Sacred Kingfisher which were also around but fishing on the mud flats. Took a while before I could get a shot clear of lal the leaves and it was quite dark in the mangroves.
332 Mangrove Robin... another bird seen around the mangroves. I'd looked for a while and then tried a quick whistle and out it came further up before venturing down to I think a preferred roost. Apparently it is restricted to mangroves on tropical coastline. I've only seen it in a few places and this is the easiest spot. Quite like the White-breasted Robin in WA.
333 Varied Honeyeater... another from the Esplanade... heavy streaking and a clear yellow throat distinguish it from the Mangrove Honeyeater (as does location but they could overlap further south). These birds are usually found in flowering trees along the Esplanade rather than in the mangroves. A walk from marina to mangroves is fruitful as the tidlal flats are available as well.
334 Eastern Osprey... a fly-over so a quick snap of a distant bird as I walked around.
335 Eastern Reef Egret... numerous birds were working the tidal mud flats but I only one of these. Good timing with a fish but they must need many more for a decent meal!
336 Whimbrel... a distant shot as it was working far out on the mud but no way was I walking out there. You have to time visits as morning light can be bad and you need the tide to be right. When it all comes together and the migratory birds are resident, it can be magic. As Abby noted, the bill is not as long as that of an Eastern Curlew.
Cattana Wetlands is a lovely place to walk around and at the right time would be very fruitful. A great place to fill in time before the plane landed with my son aboard.
337 Black Butcherbird... saw a few of these at Cattana Wetlands but light was an issue so I decided to ignore the branch and post this one. The black has that lovely blue-black sheen and the bill had a clear hook. Looks like a melanistic Australian Magpie.
338 Varied Triller... seen in a few places as we travelled but I like this shot from the Cattana Wetlands.
339 Orange-footed Scrubfowl... also seen in lots of places but this shot shows the colour best and those big feet. The soudn they make is quite alarming at night.
340 Double-eyed Fig-parrot... a lifer! As mentioned earlier, I'd looked in known spots and have been seeking these small parrots for a long time. They are the smallest parrot and are dumpy little things with tiny wings but such cuties. My son and I were having a late breakfast at a cafe opposite the park on the Espalande in Cairns. Birding was over and we were enjoying a meal and a pleasant chat... then I saw a little bird fly onto a branch across the road. A very big tree (not a figtree) and such a small bird. I said 'surely not a Fig-parrot' and lifted the camera to check... wow, it was. Numerous shots as we hastily finished our meals then he went shopping and I headed across the road. Many shots later, I managed a few good ones as they concentrated on one spot on a limb above my head. Such tiny birds and I'm posting a number of shots that I hope you find interesting. Two lifers in one trip is amazing for me. Forgot to say female with blue cheeks and male with red. Check out those tiny wings!
From Cairns, we moved on to Townsville before heading for home (2000km away). So for the Big Year and this trip, these are the final few birds.The Common at Townsville is another special place with so many fantastic birds to be found there in the variety of habitats present. I should also have headed for the river to find Cotton Pygmy-geese but time poor so they were missed. On the way to Townsville, we stopped at Tyto Wetlands in Ingham... wrong time for the Owls but another special bird is easily found there.
341 White-browed Robin... there are a few pairs living here but we were lucky to see this one almost as we started the walk. Not great shots as I was a bit rushed but my final robin for the trip. I think apart from the Cape York White-faced Robin (and a few vagrants), I think we have seen all the other Robins between us.
342 Olive-backed Sunbird... a striking little bird that is usually easy to find but little was flowering so it took a while. Here are a couple one from the Centenary Lakes in Cairns and another from Townsville Common. Check out the tiny flower on which it is feeding. I did see one in Cooktown feeding on Wisteria but awful backlight spoilt that shot. Would it not be great to have apair of these build a nest on your porch? That metallic blue gorget looks amazing against the bright yellow but they can be difficult to photgraph as they flit from spot to spot.
343 Nutmeg Mannikin (or Scaly-breasted Munia)... a flock of mixed birds were feeding on the grasses on the Common. Numerous little birds lifted off the roadsides but finally, I found some that stayed in the area for a photo. An adult and perhaps a younger one. Shades of brown and a scaly pattern seem to fit better as a name but not sure how they came to be called Nutmeg. There were Chestnut-breasted Mannikin present in the flocks.
344 Brahminy Kite... my fault blowing a lot of shots as I forgot to adjust but think this one is OK. That rich russet against the white is beautiful. A pair were working the Common and hovered over the water as other birds brought up a catch in an attempt to steal the bounty. Against the sweeping green reed beds, it was beautiful.
345 Fan-tailed Cuckoo... still having a bit of trouble adjusting for the differing light conditions but here are a couple of shots demonstrating back and front of this bird. The yellow eye-ring stands out well and is quite diagnostic.
346 Australian (Gull-billed)Tern... also seen in Cairns on the mud flats. On the Common, they were flying back and forth over the open water of the wetlands between the reed beds. The other Gull-billed Tern is also found here but not in my shots.
347 Red-backed Fairy-wren... a fitting bird for the final one of my trip. I had checked the grasses on the way in and out of the Common a number of times but early one morning, I had success with a beautiful male coming in quite close. They can be difficult to photograph with a black eye on black feathers. Really happy to see this one and get such a lovely shot. So many other birds to be found in this place but no more time as we need to head home.
Now for a few that I forgot to post or just becasue I like them:
Replacement/ extra 300 Caspian Tern... another Tern working the Common
Replacement/ extra 157 Purple-crowned Lorikeet... simply because I love this shot and it is nice as the final bird picture even though it is from Port Augusta!
Of course, I'd forgotten the butterflies:
The amazing Cairns Birdwing which is the size of a small bird. We walked around Cape Pallendra and this butterfly was one of many of various sizes and colours hovering around the bottlebrush. It is Australia's biggest butterfly and simply stunning. I think the green indicates a male which can be 13cm from wing to wing with females even bigger!
I hope that you have enjoyed my trip and not found the photos overwhelming or boring. I just want to share the beauty and variety that can be found in this country if you venture out of your usual grounds. I might try for the Channel-billed Cuckoos but not sure I can do much more this year. Looking forward to everyone else's pictures as the year continues. A number of fact Sheets missing.
Just beautiful shots here, Sue. As ever, I find your photos inspiring and educational. You have so many from such a fantastic trip and yet there are still so many out there!
I have to pick the adorable fig-parrot, what a cute little thing! Second to that, I love the red-backed wren and the brahminy kite, as they remind me of srufing holidays up the north coast as a young lad. I like the pied monarch and the wompoo pigeon too (I was just reading about the wompoo once being in the Illawarra), both spectacular looking birds.
Nothing boring here, Sue, rest up and keep going! I reckon you can tick off another 100 per month at this rate! :-0
Sue what an epic trip you had!! Oh my the photos that you had to go through after a trip like that.. we do really have some epic looking birds in this country. Hard to pick any favourites, however I do find it hard to go past a Fairywren, and you got some beautiful shots of the Red-backed Fairywren. Also liked the Yellow-breasted Boatbill, Olive-backed Sunbird and your robins.
I think you need to put your feet up now :) Thanks so much for sharing!
Thanks all for the generous feedback. It was indeed a great trip, magic and epic. Yes the feet are up for a bit but maybe just 3 more for the year would be satisfying. We certainly are lucky to live in this wonderful land.
348 Channel-billed Cuckoo... could not resist as 3 of them were calling (very loudly) and flying over the house. Not a great shot on another overcast but slightly less wet day in Sydney. Just stood in the garden and shot this across the road into the gumtrees as they were moving around. Last shot as they took off.
Thanks, Dale, I wish I could send you the sound... it is really something. Also heard the first Koel the other afternoon but awful weather continues. Hope it improves for everyone soon and that we are all safe and dry. Quite pleased that we are not currently in Tassie with our car club... open-top sports cars are not built for this weather.
What a fantastic series from FNQ, Sue, a wonderful trip indeed. So many amazing birds, and lovely shots. I particularly like the Double-eyed Fig Parrot - so cute! I dipped on that and the Boatbill, good reason to go back :-) Loved the butterflies too. Nope, they never get boring or too much, so cool to see everyone's travels :-) But I might have to wait until I retire until I can seriously challenge you for the leaderboard, what an amazing year you've had. Its been fantastic following your trips.
Thanks Alex. It seems that the Double-eyed Fig-parrot is everyone's favourite. It has taken me years to photograph one so that day was very satisfying and they really are so cute.
Retirement does assist with the freedom to travel and the time available. I must say that this year 3 of us made it to Darwin and it does pay to visit another state. I think I've been to all but WA this year! That might be in the plan next year as I do have some favourite places over there. Would love to get back to FNQ for the Buff-breasted Kingfisher but not sure I can fit in another flight this year.
Would love someone to overtake me this year but it has been amazing after so long locked in to home or one state. I think the most lifers this year would be an encouraging award.
Just catching up on your photos now Sue, what a fantastic year you are having! I also love the Double-eyed Fig Parrot, and the Red-backed Fairywren. And so many others, just amazing. I love the snake too :-).
I notice I am down to just 1 unique species now, and my White-throated Nightjars are back, if you fancy another stakeout, to reduce me to zero!!
Thanks, Karen. It was a great trip. Would love to try for the Nightjar again. Thanks for the invitation. I'll email you about a possible time but quite busy at the moment.
Finally, a few more birds for the year ... just been really busy since getting back home and not much itme for birding as Christmas approaches. However i did manag a few brief outings with some reasonable results.
We took the sportscar for a spin to brush off the cobwebs after all the rain and the camera and I went for a brief walk along the path at the Ourimbah rest area. Not much flowering and quite warm but a couple turned up.
349 Brown Gerygone... difficult through all the twigs as they bounced around a lot but quite liked this shot in the end.
repacement/ extra 30 Red-whiskered Bulbul... just because I quite like the colours which show off the bird's colours so well.
I also visited some friends at Kings Point near Ulladulla on the south coast of NSW for a few days. The enduring wet meant I arrived cold from the wind coming from the Snowy Mts and in a hailstorm! The Coastal Heathland Reserve is nearby and can be very rewarding birdwise so with better weather, I fitted in a few quick visits around the area and even joined the local bird group for an outing. A great visit with my friends who provided some wonderful food and companionship. Quite relaxing and rewarding.
350 White-browed Scrubwren... a young one, I think. Numerous birds about but really hard to get a clear shot in the brush.
351 Eastern Whipbird... quite happy to see this one come through and bounce along the log / I hurried past to look back for a clear shot and am quite happy with the result. They often call close to you but it can be difficult to get a clear shot in reasonable light.
352 Glossy Black-cockatoo... a regular on the Heathland but again little time as the wind whipped up and the storm was pending.
353 Yellow-tailed Black-cockatoo... much easier bird to photograph as it called constantly from its high perch on a clear day. I love that pink eye ring on this adult male.
replacement/extra 155 White-bellied Sea-eagle... surprised me when a pair came flying overhead at the headland. One is not fully mature as you can see by the colour. i also had no hope of identifying the fish as distance was great.
replacement/extra 158 Brown Thornbill... just because it posed so nicely
replacement/extra 163 New Holland Honeyeater... busily working on reducing the mosquito population! More of that needed at present.
replacement/extra 186 Little Wattlebird... Just thought the flight shot was interesting as ti worked the heathland which was awash with mountain devils and flannel flowers plus so many more flowering plants.
replacement/extra 318 Eastern Yellow Robin... hiding in the shadows but a gorgeous little bird
replacement/extra 200 Grey Goshawk... a surprise as it glided slowly through and was gone so quickly that I barely had time to react let alone ID it. My mind just kept saying too small for another Sea-eagle and I did not realise it was a Goshawk until I checked the picture.
After returning home, I managed a brief trip to Olympic Park with hopes of finding Red-necked Avocets. No luck as the tide was in and the waders elsewhere but a nice walk and a few more birds new for the year.
354 Great Cormorant... an awful distant shot in bright sun but identifiable
355 Olive-backed Oriole... this bird moved around with a mate but finally paused long enough for a shot. They are easily found in this area by their call. I love that red eye and orange bill.
356 Striated Heron... birds wait at the tidal inlet/outlet from the waterbird refuge at Olympic Park. They were three different species of birds fishing the flow. This one dived in for a catch and then shook off the water for an interesting look.
replacement/extra 142 Little Egret... successfully fishing near the Striated Heron
replacement/extra 19 Great Egret... in breeding flush and watching closely but never went in for a catch
replacement/extra 17 Chestnut Teal... only because I love the colours when the light is just right
Final bird for this post is one that I have seen only a few times before and a new one for my home backyard so quite exciting.
357 White-throated Needletail... I thought water was running, went to investigate and found the sound was cicadas singing in the sunshine. However, I noticed some birds in the distance, ran back for the bins and camera as they did not seem to be Swallows. To my surprise and delight, I realised that they were Needletails and gradually, they moved closer until around 20 were circling right over head. Quite difficult to lock on as they came over and through quite quickly but I did manage one reasonable shot. Look closely and you can see some needles protruding from the tail. I check the sky every time I go outside now!
Still have not finished processing final pictures from my long trip but it does not include any new birds. A new computer has made processing much faster but I'm still deciding on which programmes and files to transfer... a Black Friday purchase.
Wish you all a very merry Christmas and a happy New Year.
Thanks for the nice comments, guys. It has been an exciting year and 350 was way beyond my expectation. Still have a couple more to add but life is pretty busy.
A couple from a brief trip to Warriewood. I managed to snatch a few hours for a walk around the Warriewood Wetlands/ Irrawong area and found a couple of new birds for the year. However, few birds were around and I was quite disappointed by the state of the Swamp Mahogany... this remnant forest appears to be failing to my eyes and the Bell Miners might be considered the problem. They are quite aggressive to other birds which eat the psyllids they are farming and this forest seems to be an example of the resultant die-back. It was quite different and alive with numerous species on visits over the past decade. Hopefully, something can be done before it is too late.
358 Australian Brush-turkey... expected to find a few as there is a gigantic mound near the boardwalk. Unfortunately, the light was a bit harsh but this bird sported such a beautiful bright yellow neck pouch.
359 Bell Miner... much more cooperative birds and posing so nicely for me. They have attractive colouring but I feel they look 'sad' with that orange skin behind the eye. A few poses because they are quite photographic.
It would be nice to round it off with one more bird but chances are that I won't get out birding again before year's end. It has been a great year and I cannot believe that I managed to find so many different birds and some lifers.
Merry Christmas to all and hope that you have a wonderful New Year. Thanks for the fun company and for sharing your amazing photos and tales.
Well done Sue, loving all of your enormous total for this year. Some great photos yet again, love them all. Keep the camera handy, you just never know when 360 will turn up for you.
Hoping I will get a couple more, I have at least 1 to add, but need to get out this week subject to weather etc.
Thanks, Dale. I am hopeful but time poor and Sydney is cold and windy at present with a little rain. However, a Brown Goshawk flew over a few days ago, chasing the Rainbow Lorikeets and the Needletails have continued so perhaps there is a chance as they are both new to my home list.
Thanks, Michael. Yes, the weather seems to have improved at last. Christmas Day looks very promising. Next year, I might manage to get down your way. stay safe and have a great Christmas.
I'm signing off for the year at 359 which is way more than I anticiapted. It has been fun.
I will load some extra raptor pictures on Best Photos and crocodile is on Social (not wanting to upset any birders)... the comparison of raptors may be of interest. However, a couple of odd bods just for fun.
Seen out of Silverton near the set of the next Mad Max movie was this Ultralite which passed overhead and gave us a wave
Seen at Fogg Dam on the day they were erecting the 'No Drones' signage.
What a wonderful year Sue. 359!! And across so much of the country too. It's been a joy seeing what you've turned up along the way.
You've got so many exceptional photos of some incredible birds but I have to call out your Varied Lorikeet; just beautiful. Thank you for sharing your trips and experiences with us all :)
Thanks to all of you for the comradeship and fun. It was a fantastic and unexpected Big Year. You need to see those Varied Lorikeets to really appreciate them, Tommmy but thank you for picking that bird as a favourite.
While I'm on a roll and hopefully not boring anyone, I'll add a couple more. We left Cloncurry for a night at Hughenden before travelling the Kennedy Development road to Bedrock Village in the little town of Mt Surprise. Fortunately, the road was open as it was closed by flooding when we left home. There was a lot of roadwork (which it needs) and that created other problems as it made the dust horrendous... stopping till it settled in order to pass a road works truck. We stopped at Porcupine Gorge (worth a visit) where I saw Squatter Pigeons and then to where the Gregory Highway joins,The Lynd Junction, for a rest stop (only to find the roadhouse closed as were the loos!). So we had to keep going and overshoot to Forty Mile Scrub for lunch and a pit stop. This is an interesting spot as it is a dry Rainforest with semi-evergreen vine thicket. Look it up!
Finally we could turn back and head for Bedrock Village at Mount Surprise. This whole area is an old volcanic zone and covered in rocks (hence the name) and the Undarra lava tubes are nearby... well worth a visit if you get the chance. O'Brien's Creek runs near the property and there is a little track down to it ...but you need to tread carefully with all the rocks hidden in the grass. They have their own pizza oven so people pre-order and gather for a meal in the camp kitchen around an open fire, a couple of times a week. I really enjoy this place as the people running it are lovely and birding can be very good. Only a couple of new birds for the list.
301 Pheasant Coucal... they go high in the trees and stay there when they spot you so not too bad considering the backlight, height and leaves. Quite a large bird and the only cuckoo that builds a nest in Australia. I could hear them calling as I walked along the rocky path but I was not prepared to venture too far into the long dry grass. I was surprised not to see any earlier in the trip.
302 Squatter Pigeon... saw a couple at Porcupine Gorge but this one was a better sighting. We went for a walk as the sun was going down and I spied this bird across the road. 'Surely not a Squatter Pigeon but best check' said I and what a pleasant surprise. It stayed put as I crossed the road and crept closer (taking photos every so often in case it flew) but finally took off ... reappearing down near some long grass but in fading light. No fact sheet
Congrats on the big 300. Love those Variegated Lorikeets, but all they are all great.
Dale Huonville, Tasmania
Thanks Dale, they are beautiful birds and characters as are most Lorikeets. It was wonderful to find them again.
This trip was quite different being winter and years of dought had broken in most areas so it was much greener (and wetter) than in past years. The birds were there but not as concentrated and some were quite difficult to locate. Blossom was down as were insects. Also the number of travellers was much greater so little spots like the lookouts at Timber Creek had numbers of visitors... to disturb my stalking. For so many people, it was a release from the years of lockdowns and a celebration of our wonderful country... plenty of beautiful places to explore. I am lucky to have time and energy enough to get out there.
Wow Sue congratulations on getting to 300! Hard to pick any favourites. You have a wonderful selection of beautiful shots of some pretty cool birds.
We also found it interesting seeing the difference of the Masked Lapwings while we were in NT.
Thanks Abby. Thought the differences might be interesting.
I've finally processed all the new birds for the year although awaiting some ID confirmation on a couple. I also have some raptor shots still to do but a bit time poor. Car in getting repaired after my tree encounter and the new artworks gathered on our travels are now framed. Also, after the freak accident at home: older painting awaiting new frame (after the sudden snap of the cord), 200 year old glass-sided clock being repaired (after the painting fell on it!) and home & contents insurance adjusted as accidental damage not covered (not sure when that changed!!!). The Channel-billed Cuckoos are still flying over the house but I don't have the energy to get out the camera and wait for them.
Continuing our travels, we left the dry old volcanic area of Mt Surprise for Atherton on the tablelands above Cairns. Here there are old volcanoes like Mt Hypipamee with its water-filled crater and the countryside is lush and damp. Numerous waterfalls and lakes to be seen. Beautiful areas to drive through but winding hilly roads which are often damp and sport signs warning of Tree kangaroos and Cassowaries.The mist can take some time to clear as was the case while we stayed. So the light was not great and photography a bit challenging with light rain in some places.
A few from the stunning Atherton Tablelands despite the weather. Most of these lack Fact Sheets.
303 Sarus Crane... a truly awful shot in the early morning mist at Hasties Swamp as they flew off to the cane fields... this is processed to death to show the red extending down the neck much further than on a Brolga but not sure the pale pink of the legs is evident. I did see them again feeding in the fields but was unable to stop and on my return they were flying off. On other occasions, we have stood and watched as massive flocks of Sarus Cranes and Brolgas have flown to their night time roost in the early evening.
304 Bridled Honeyeater... the sun finally came out so I walked the grounds and found some feeding on the Bottlebrush. An unusual pattern behind the eye and a two-toned bill make it quite striking.
305 Bush Stone-curlew... seen in a number of places on the trip but these two were very obliging and the plummage looked very fresh. Front and back views. We stopped at a little park and they came to check us out. Great looking birds with those long legs and big eyes but the sound they make at night is quite disturbing!
306 Brown Cuckoo-dove... siting very quietly at Lake Barrine when we went for a scenic drive. The cafe was closed but the birds were abundant as were the flowers in the garden. I could hear others like Green Catbirds but they stayed deep in the foliage this time and we needed to find coffee (or rather my driver did!).
307 Wompoo Fruit-dove... a large beautifully coloured bird... one of a pair that flew into a palm at Lake Barrine as we walked about. That yellow extends right under the wing and the purple is beautiful contrast. I think that the palm fruit was their goal. I saw another in Cooktown sitting quietly under the tree canopy and showing off the yellow underwing.
308 Atherton Scrubwren... a pair were working the low undergrowth and fallen logs at Mt Hypipamee without venturing further up the trees. They are very dark but like a Large-billed Scrubwren except for foraging habits as the latter goes up the trees. I had the ID confirmed on ABID to confirm my suspicions.
309 Grey-headed Robin... a regular at Mt Hypipamee but again awful weather as raining on and off. I stuck around the carpark and early trail rather than tackling the whole walk in wet conditions as slippery and wet camera gear is not my idea of fun. The light was also marginally better around the car park clearing than further in. This is quite a large robin and is worth comparing to the Buff-sided Robin (253) from Timber Creek.
310 Pied Monarch... quite surprised when this bird flew in at Mt Hypipamee and started working a tree. I had the short lens on (200mm) so it was a bit distant but quite identifiable with that blue eye-ring and pied colouring. No frill to the neck. I could keep this short lens drier and it stopped down to f2.8 which was better in the poor light conditions. I have not seen these birds that often so i was quite thrilled by the brief visit.
After hearing a Golden Bowerbird, I ventured deeper into the forest but numerous leeches attached to my shoes and I was reluctant to provide them sustenance. Therefore, I backed out, cleaned off the shoes and went back to staying around the carpark where I have seen various Bowerbirds and Cassowaries in the past. The Pale-yellow Robin kept flying in to work the side of the trees but I'll save that for later. As I did not venture to the crater, I missed the Peregrine Falcons roosting there. If any of you get up that way then it is a must-do.
Finally a few extras because I quite like them
replacement/ extra 74 Plumed Whistling-ducks... coming in to land at Hasties Swamp where they are as numerous and noisy as the Magpie Geese.
replacement/ extra 216 Domestic fowl... seen at Atherton township in a little park. The rooster was calling and such a beauty whereas the Musgovy Duck was just the opposite... not exactly beautiful.
Finally a treat just for Dale... Amethystine Pyton crossing the road and stopping me as I left Hasties Swamp. I waited patiently but eventually had to shoo it back off the road before it was squashed. It took up a lot of roadnad would have been killed if another car drove past. A common snake which I have encountered in bird-hides in the past.
From a misty Atherton, we drove to Cairns and stayed out near the Crystal Cascades before my husband flew home and my son flew in. I had 4 nights out near the Cascades, picked up my son from the airport and we headed to Kingfisher Lodge at Julatten for a couple of nights. Then it was on to Cooktown before returning to Cairns to stay near the Esplanade. So I'lll leave all the Cairns shots until later.
Julatten is a wonderful place with some great birds but 2 nights is not long enough as I really only had one day birding. Cooktown was a good drive of only 232 km with plenty to see but was quite tiring for me. Also there was a necessary stop at Mount Carbine for a special bird.
I did the morning walk with Carol to get my bearings, like hearing the Cryptic Honeyeater call and seeing where some of the birds were roosting before driving to a few places with my son and lunching at Mount Molloy. The two of us did go out at night to see the nearby Barn Owls. Magic place but I was abit unlucky and did not see the Red-necked Crake this visit. The long verandah is the place to sit at night and await a visit. Sadly there was no time for Mt Lewis and the Blue-faced Parrot-finch were no shows in the other spot. Lots of missing Fact Sheets.
311 Large-billed Scrubwren... awful shot but you can see the similarity to the Atherton Scrubwren. However, this one was ID'd at the time and was quite high in the bushes. If I stayed longer then it would have been easier.
312 Pale-yellow Robin ssp nana... a litle bird which in typical robin fashion clings to the side of a tree trunk before flying down to the ground for prey. The buff-tinged lores distinguish this sub-species.
313 Macleay's Honeyeater... a beautiful rainforest bird with striking patination and colour. Very common in this area but quite limited in range.
314 Spectacled Monarch... not a great shot but quite identifiable. Tthey do come to Sydney but earlier in the year.
315 Topknot Pigeon... a treat to have these birds fly in as we were doing the morning walk. Apparently those particular berries are quite attractive to birds but I cannot recall the name. Apparently, these birds are expanding their range as they first appeared in East Gippsland in the 1990s but are now regular in the summer. Pleased to hear that Danika found them in NSW.
316 Papuan Frogmouth... a bird I was hoping to see and this pair did not disappoint as they roosted low, just above head height. On other occasions they have been high up and so obscured by vines and leaves that I needed help to even spot them. Of course, all down to Carol's knowledge of the area as she included this pair in the morning walk. Note the large white spots on the wing-coverts. Sorry that the eye stayed closed so the red was not seen.
317 Brown-capped Emerald-dove... awful shot in fading light from Julatten
318 Eastern Yellow Robin... seen at Abattoir's Swamp when we ventured out for the day. I was surprised to find that I had not posted one earlier. This bird was literally at our feet looking for insects and posed so close that I had to back off a bit.
319 Little Shrike-thrush... another from the car park at Abattoir's Swamp. We were sitting having a snack when it came by and the light was much better here than in my earlier attempts at Julatten. Bower's Shrike-thrush is also found in the area but it has a dark bill unlike this bird.
320 Brown-backed Honeyeater... again at Abattoir's Swamp but this time down near the birdhide. They were in the paperbarks off the boardwalk. Probably another blossom nomad as I have seen them in many places. An attractive little bird for one that is essentailly just brown and white. Some (introduced?) plant has taken over the swamp, there is little open water now and I think the fight is lost. However, that means different birds are around.
321 White-cheeked Honeyeater... another shot from Julatten at the edge of the cane fields. Surprised that I had not already posted this birds as they are not uncommon in NSW.
322 Yellow-faced Honeyeater awful shot in poor light of another bird that I had missed posting earlier.
Now for the similar ones that are so confusing as they are all found here!
323 Lewin's Honeyeater... fairly easy to ID by the bue-grey iris and grey patch between eye and ear-patch, apart from its size.
324 Graceful (Cryptic) Honeyeater... terrible shot of what I heard as a Cryptic Honeyeater. Sounds need to be freshly heard & ID'd for me (which Carol had been doing just before-hand) as not my strong suit. I also checked on ABID and we agree on ID. Blue-grey iris and no grey before the ear-patch apart from call.
325 Yellow-spotted Honeyeater... first poor shot from Julatten and second from Cooktown. Also checked on ABID and consensus is Yellow-spotted. Dark eye, olive between eye and eyepatch, pale yellow fleshy gape. Really hard to separate the last two and bill shape was not good from the angle of my photos. Good clear shots of many angles do help!
325 Spangled Drongo... a lovely metallic spangles and 'fish' tail with a great red eye and a forehead dusted with pollen. Cannot recall the name of this South American tree but it is spectacular and the birds all love the flowers. Saw them in a few places but I like this shot even with a soft focus on the body.
326 Australian Bustard... the special bird from Mount Carbine as we drove to Cooktown. Around this time of year, the males display and drop a large throat sac towards the ground as they strut around. A metre high, they hold the head slightly tilted up and look quite 'snooty'. We just missed the display of a large male which walked off into tall grasses so settled for this one albeit inside the fence line. Coming back from Cooktown, I had to slow as one sauntered across the main road.
An interesting point: Mount Carbine and Mount Molloy are not mountains and apparently were misnamed at some stage when the MT for mining town was misinterpreted.
A couple of extras
replacement/ extra 3 Australian Figbird... from Julatten, a colourful male enjoying some berries
replacement/ extra 252 White-throated Honeyeater... from Abattoir's Swamp
Getting towards the end now but a few lovelies still to come.
Wow Sue, some epic birds in that lot. Hard to choose a favourite, so I will stick with the Amethystine Python, but I reckon the Pied Monarch is a close = 2nd with all the others.
Looks like if I am any chance of catching you guys, I better get a photo of the Red-footed Jungle Fowl (AKA domestic rooster).
Dale Huonville, Tasmania
Cooktown is a beautiful place like a big country town but can be windy. Indeed, one night was blowing a gale and the rains fell, but next day was beautiful. There is a museum with displays concerning the time Cook spent there mending his ship, the Endeavour, his interactions with the locals and more history of the area. A beautiful old building and a great display. Stunning sunsets even with the phone.
On the road to Cooktown, you pass Black Mountain and there is an indigenous story about its origin involving two brothers fighting over a girl and ignoring the impending storm until too late... all three died. The mountain is bare apart from large black granite boulders which is totally different to surrounding green zones. Sorry just a phone pic.
Finally to this one bird seen at Keating's Lagoon in Cooktown. A lovely spot but super-sized mozzies at times.
328 Rufous Fantail... makes a nice comparison to (267) the Arafura Fantail from Kakadu, NT. Thought i'd managed a great flight shot but the head was blurred so here is the classic pose of a sweet little bird. This one followed us as we walked the path around the lagoon but birds were in low numbers this day.
Now for Cairns, from the cool Crystal Cascades to the humid, mosquito ridden Espalande and Cattana Wetlands. I also went the Botanical Gardens and Centenary Lakes but few birds. However all these areas are worth a visit if you are in the area. Lots of missing Fact Sheets.
329 Yellow-breasted Boatbill... this little flycatcher was a treat. Appears to be a female with that 'dirty looking' chest. I had been told by a cyclist that he had just seen a Double-eyed Fig-parrot in a particular tree but it was on dusk and 3 kms to walk so I went next morning and dipped on the parrot but nicely rewarded for my effort. I'll post a few shots so you can see the shape of the bill from which the name is derived. It is always a pleasure to see them and I think a lucky sighting here as I've only seen them in Julatten.
330 Metallic Starling... another lucky timing as they had only just sarted arriving up the road from our cabin. We drove in and saw no sign of them where usually the trees are covered in nests and birds but next morning, there were a couple and by next day even more with nests underway. Adults are stunning birds with those red eyes and metallic sheen and I've included an immature one for comparison. My husband watched them coming and going from the surrounding palm trees as they gathered nesting material.
331 Torresian (Collared) Kingfisher... a powerful looking bird with a huge bill seen hunting in the mangroves at the end of the Esplanade. I also saw one in Darwin and too large to be confused with a Sacred Kingfisher which were also around but fishing on the mud flats. Took a while before I could get a shot clear of lal the leaves and it was quite dark in the mangroves.
332 Mangrove Robin... another bird seen around the mangroves. I'd looked for a while and then tried a quick whistle and out it came further up before venturing down to I think a preferred roost. Apparently it is restricted to mangroves on tropical coastline. I've only seen it in a few places and this is the easiest spot. Quite like the White-breasted Robin in WA.
333 Varied Honeyeater... another from the Esplanade... heavy streaking and a clear yellow throat distinguish it from the Mangrove Honeyeater (as does location but they could overlap further south). These birds are usually found in flowering trees along the Esplanade rather than in the mangroves. A walk from marina to mangroves is fruitful as the tidlal flats are available as well.
334 Eastern Osprey... a fly-over so a quick snap of a distant bird as I walked around.
335 Eastern Reef Egret... numerous birds were working the tidal mud flats but I only one of these. Good timing with a fish but they must need many more for a decent meal!
336 Whimbrel... a distant shot as it was working far out on the mud but no way was I walking out there. You have to time visits as morning light can be bad and you need the tide to be right. When it all comes together and the migratory birds are resident, it can be magic. As Abby noted, the bill is not as long as that of an Eastern Curlew.
Cattana Wetlands is a lovely place to walk around and at the right time would be very fruitful. A great place to fill in time before the plane landed with my son aboard.
337 Black Butcherbird... saw a few of these at Cattana Wetlands but light was an issue so I decided to ignore the branch and post this one. The black has that lovely blue-black sheen and the bill had a clear hook. Looks like a melanistic Australian Magpie.
338 Varied Triller... seen in a few places as we travelled but I like this shot from the Cattana Wetlands.
339 Orange-footed Scrubfowl... also seen in lots of places but this shot shows the colour best and those big feet. The soudn they make is quite alarming at night.
340 Double-eyed Fig-parrot... a lifer! As mentioned earlier, I'd looked in known spots and have been seeking these small parrots for a long time. They are the smallest parrot and are dumpy little things with tiny wings but such cuties. My son and I were having a late breakfast at a cafe opposite the park on the Espalande in Cairns. Birding was over and we were enjoying a meal and a pleasant chat... then I saw a little bird fly onto a branch across the road. A very big tree (not a figtree) and such a small bird. I said 'surely not a Fig-parrot' and lifted the camera to check... wow, it was. Numerous shots as we hastily finished our meals then he went shopping and I headed across the road. Many shots later, I managed a few good ones as they concentrated on one spot on a limb above my head. Such tiny birds and I'm posting a number of shots that I hope you find interesting. Two lifers in one trip is amazing for me. Forgot to say female with blue cheeks and male with red. Check out those tiny wings!
From Cairns, we moved on to Townsville before heading for home (2000km away). So for the Big Year and this trip, these are the final few birds.The Common at Townsville is another special place with so many fantastic birds to be found there in the variety of habitats present. I should also have headed for the river to find Cotton Pygmy-geese but time poor so they were missed. On the way to Townsville, we stopped at Tyto Wetlands in Ingham... wrong time for the Owls but another special bird is easily found there.
341 White-browed Robin... there are a few pairs living here but we were lucky to see this one almost as we started the walk. Not great shots as I was a bit rushed but my final robin for the trip. I think apart from the Cape York White-faced Robin (and a few vagrants), I think we have seen all the other Robins between us.
342 Olive-backed Sunbird... a striking little bird that is usually easy to find but little was flowering so it took a while. Here are a couple one from the Centenary Lakes in Cairns and another from Townsville Common. Check out the tiny flower on which it is feeding. I did see one in Cooktown feeding on Wisteria but awful backlight spoilt that shot. Would it not be great to have apair of these build a nest on your porch? That metallic blue gorget looks amazing against the bright yellow but they can be difficult to photgraph as they flit from spot to spot.
343 Nutmeg Mannikin (or Scaly-breasted Munia)... a flock of mixed birds were feeding on the grasses on the Common. Numerous little birds lifted off the roadsides but finally, I found some that stayed in the area for a photo. An adult and perhaps a younger one. Shades of brown and a scaly pattern seem to fit better as a name but not sure how they came to be called Nutmeg. There were Chestnut-breasted Mannikin present in the flocks.
344 Brahminy Kite... my fault blowing a lot of shots as I forgot to adjust but think this one is OK. That rich russet against the white is beautiful. A pair were working the Common and hovered over the water as other birds brought up a catch in an attempt to steal the bounty. Against the sweeping green reed beds, it was beautiful.
345 Fan-tailed Cuckoo... still having a bit of trouble adjusting for the differing light conditions but here are a couple of shots demonstrating back and front of this bird. The yellow eye-ring stands out well and is quite diagnostic.
346 Australian (Gull-billed)Tern... also seen in Cairns on the mud flats. On the Common, they were flying back and forth over the open water of the wetlands between the reed beds. The other Gull-billed Tern is also found here but not in my shots.
347 Red-backed Fairy-wren... a fitting bird for the final one of my trip. I had checked the grasses on the way in and out of the Common a number of times but early one morning, I had success with a beautiful male coming in quite close. They can be difficult to photograph with a black eye on black feathers. Really happy to see this one and get such a lovely shot. So many other birds to be found in this place but no more time as we need to head home.
Now for a few that I forgot to post or just becasue I like them:
Replacement/ extra 300 Caspian Tern... another Tern working the Common
Replacement/ extra 157 Purple-crowned Lorikeet... simply because I love this shot and it is nice as the final bird picture even though it is from Port Augusta!
Of course, I'd forgotten the butterflies:
The amazing Cairns Birdwing which is the size of a small bird. We walked around Cape Pallendra and this butterfly was one of many of various sizes and colours hovering around the bottlebrush. It is Australia's biggest butterfly and simply stunning. I think the green indicates a male which can be 13cm from wing to wing with females even bigger!
I hope that you have enjoyed my trip and not found the photos overwhelming or boring. I just want to share the beauty and variety that can be found in this country if you venture out of your usual grounds. I might try for the Channel-billed Cuckoos but not sure I can do much more this year. Looking forward to everyone else's pictures as the year continues. A number of fact Sheets missing.
Just beautiful shots here, Sue. As ever, I find your photos inspiring and educational. You have so many from such a fantastic trip and yet there are still so many out there!
I have to pick the adorable fig-parrot, what a cute little thing! Second to that, I love the red-backed wren and the brahminy kite, as they remind me of srufing holidays up the north coast as a young lad. I like the pied monarch and the wompoo pigeon too (I was just reading about the wompoo once being in the Illawarra), both spectacular looking birds.
Nothing boring here, Sue, rest up and keep going! I reckon you can tick off another 100 per month at this rate! :-0
Again some great photos. Think the Red-backed Fairy-wren and the Double-eyed Fig-parrot are my favourites, but I truly love them all.
Those butterflies are also stunning.
Dale Huonville, Tasmania
Sue what an epic trip you had!! Oh my the photos that you had to go through after a trip like that.. we do really have some epic looking birds in this country. Hard to pick any favourites, however I do find it hard to go past a Fairywren, and you got some beautiful shots of the Red-backed Fairywren. Also liked the Yellow-breasted Boatbill, Olive-backed Sunbird and your robins.
I think you need to put your feet up now :) Thanks so much for sharing!
Thanks all for the generous feedback. It was indeed a great trip, magic and epic. Yes the feet are up for a bit but maybe just 3 more for the year would be satisfying. We certainly are lucky to live in this wonderful land.
348 Channel-billed Cuckoo... could not resist as 3 of them were calling (very loudly) and flying over the house. Not a great shot on another overcast but slightly less wet day in Sydney. Just stood in the garden and shot this across the road into the gumtrees as they were moving around. Last shot as they took off.
Nice photo Sue, love seeing the plumage with wings and tail spread.
Dale Huonville, Tasmania
Thanks, Dale, I wish I could send you the sound... it is really something. Also heard the first Koel the other afternoon but awful weather continues. Hope it improves for everyone soon and that we are all safe and dry. Quite pleased that we are not currently in Tassie with our car club... open-top sports cars are not built for this weather.
Sue you did well to get a decent shot. Nice!
Thanks, Abby and Dale. They keep coming over and calling loudly; at least 3 are involved. Have not tried for a better shot as still awful weather.
What a fantastic series from FNQ, Sue, a wonderful trip indeed. So many amazing birds, and lovely shots. I particularly like the Double-eyed Fig Parrot - so cute! I dipped on that and the Boatbill, good reason to go back :-) Loved the butterflies too. Nope, they never get boring or too much, so cool to see everyone's travels :-) But I might have to wait until I retire until I can seriously challenge you for the leaderboard, what an amazing year you've had. Its been fantastic following your trips.
Thanks Alex. It seems that the Double-eyed Fig-parrot is everyone's favourite. It has taken me years to photograph one so that day was very satisfying and they really are so cute.
Retirement does assist with the freedom to travel and the time available. I must say that this year 3 of us made it to Darwin and it does pay to visit another state. I think I've been to all but WA this year! That might be in the plan next year as I do have some favourite places over there. Would love to get back to FNQ for the Buff-breasted Kingfisher but not sure I can fit in another flight this year.
Would love someone to overtake me this year but it has been amazing after so long locked in to home or one state. I think the most lifers this year would be an encouraging award.
Just catching up on your photos now Sue, what a fantastic year you are having! I also love the Double-eyed Fig Parrot, and the Red-backed Fairywren. And so many others, just amazing. I love the snake too :-).
I notice I am down to just 1 unique species now, and my White-throated Nightjars are back, if you fancy another stakeout, to reduce me to zero!!
Thanks, Karen. It was a great trip. Would love to try for the Nightjar again. Thanks for the invitation. I'll email you about a possible time but quite busy at the moment.
Finally, a few more birds for the year ... just been really busy since getting back home and not much itme for birding as Christmas approaches. However i did manag a few brief outings with some reasonable results.
We took the sportscar for a spin to brush off the cobwebs after all the rain and the camera and I went for a brief walk along the path at the Ourimbah rest area. Not much flowering and quite warm but a couple turned up.
349 Brown Gerygone... difficult through all the twigs as they bounced around a lot but quite liked this shot in the end.
repacement/ extra 30 Red-whiskered Bulbul... just because I quite like the colours which show off the bird's colours so well.
I also visited some friends at Kings Point near Ulladulla on the south coast of NSW for a few days. The enduring wet meant I arrived cold from the wind coming from the Snowy Mts and in a hailstorm! The Coastal Heathland Reserve is nearby and can be very rewarding birdwise so with better weather, I fitted in a few quick visits around the area and even joined the local bird group for an outing. A great visit with my friends who provided some wonderful food and companionship. Quite relaxing and rewarding.
350 White-browed Scrubwren... a young one, I think. Numerous birds about but really hard to get a clear shot in the brush.
351 Eastern Whipbird... quite happy to see this one come through and bounce along the log / I hurried past to look back for a clear shot and am quite happy with the result. They often call close to you but it can be difficult to get a clear shot in reasonable light.
352 Glossy Black-cockatoo... a regular on the Heathland but again little time as the wind whipped up and the storm was pending.
353 Yellow-tailed Black-cockatoo... much easier bird to photograph as it called constantly from its high perch on a clear day. I love that pink eye ring on this adult male.
replacement/extra 155 White-bellied Sea-eagle... surprised me when a pair came flying overhead at the headland. One is not fully mature as you can see by the colour. i also had no hope of identifying the fish as distance was great.
replacement/extra 158 Brown Thornbill... just because it posed so nicely
replacement/extra 163 New Holland Honeyeater... busily working on reducing the mosquito population! More of that needed at present.
replacement/extra 186 Little Wattlebird... Just thought the flight shot was interesting as ti worked the heathland which was awash with mountain devils and flannel flowers plus so many more flowering plants.
replacement/extra 318 Eastern Yellow Robin... hiding in the shadows but a gorgeous little bird
replacement/extra 200 Grey Goshawk... a surprise as it glided slowly through and was gone so quickly that I barely had time to react let alone ID it. My mind just kept saying too small for another Sea-eagle and I did not realise it was a Goshawk until I checked the picture.
After returning home, I managed a brief trip to Olympic Park with hopes of finding Red-necked Avocets. No luck as the tide was in and the waders elsewhere but a nice walk and a few more birds new for the year.
354 Great Cormorant... an awful distant shot in bright sun but identifiable
355 Olive-backed Oriole... this bird moved around with a mate but finally paused long enough for a shot. They are easily found in this area by their call. I love that red eye and orange bill.
356 Striated Heron... birds wait at the tidal inlet/outlet from the waterbird refuge at Olympic Park. They were three different species of birds fishing the flow. This one dived in for a catch and then shook off the water for an interesting look.
replacement/extra 142 Little Egret... successfully fishing near the Striated Heron
replacement/extra 19 Great Egret... in breeding flush and watching closely but never went in for a catch
replacement/extra 17 Chestnut Teal... only because I love the colours when the light is just right
Final bird for this post is one that I have seen only a few times before and a new one for my home backyard so quite exciting.
357 White-throated Needletail... I thought water was running, went to investigate and found the sound was cicadas singing in the sunshine. However, I noticed some birds in the distance, ran back for the bins and camera as they did not seem to be Swallows. To my surprise and delight, I realised that they were Needletails and gradually, they moved closer until around 20 were circling right over head. Quite difficult to lock on as they came over and through quite quickly but I did manage one reasonable shot. Look closely and you can see some needles protruding from the tail. I check the sky every time I go outside now!
Still have not finished processing final pictures from my long trip but it does not include any new birds. A new computer has made processing much faster but I'm still deciding on which programmes and files to transfer... a Black Friday purchase.
Wish you all a very merry Christmas and a happy New Year.
Great shots Sue, love that Heron, but they are all great. Also congrats on 350, no mean feat.
Dale Huonville, Tasmania
Love the whipbirds, very challenging to get them in the light for any length of time - 1/1000 of a second even!
Super-cute thornbill and yellow robin; good to see you enjoying the clearer east-coast weather with camera.
Thanks for the nice comments, guys. It has been an exciting year and 350 was way beyond my expectation. Still have a couple more to add but life is pretty busy.
A couple from a brief trip to Warriewood. I managed to snatch a few hours for a walk around the Warriewood Wetlands/ Irrawong area and found a couple of new birds for the year. However, few birds were around and I was quite disappointed by the state of the Swamp Mahogany... this remnant forest appears to be failing to my eyes and the Bell Miners might be considered the problem. They are quite aggressive to other birds which eat the psyllids they are farming and this forest seems to be an example of the resultant die-back. It was quite different and alive with numerous species on visits over the past decade. Hopefully, something can be done before it is too late.
358 Australian Brush-turkey... expected to find a few as there is a gigantic mound near the boardwalk. Unfortunately, the light was a bit harsh but this bird sported such a beautiful bright yellow neck pouch.
359 Bell Miner... much more cooperative birds and posing so nicely for me. They have attractive colouring but I feel they look 'sad' with that orange skin behind the eye. A few poses because they are quite photographic.
It would be nice to round it off with one more bird but chances are that I won't get out birding again before year's end. It has been a great year and I cannot believe that I managed to find so many different birds and some lifers.
Merry Christmas to all and hope that you have a wonderful New Year. Thanks for the fun company and for sharing your amazing photos and tales.
Well done Sue, loving all of your enormous total for this year. Some great photos yet again, love them all. Keep the camera handy, you just never know when 360 will turn up for you.
Hoping I will get a couple more, I have at least 1 to add, but need to get out this week subject to weather etc.
Congrats and best wishes for the festive season.
Dale Huonville, Tasmania
Thanks, Dale. I am hopeful but time poor and Sydney is cold and windy at present with a little rain. However, a Brown Goshawk flew over a few days ago, chasing the Rainbow Lorikeets and the Needletails have continued so perhaps there is a chance as they are both new to my home list.
Congrats Sue, and all the best for a sunnier looking Christmas (at least it looks that way in the Gong).
Thanks, Michael. Yes, the weather seems to have improved at last. Christmas Day looks very promising. Next year, I might manage to get down your way.
stay safe and have a great Christmas.
I'm signing off for the year at 359 which is way more than I anticiapted. It has been fun.
I will load some extra raptor pictures on Best Photos and crocodile is on Social (not wanting to upset any birders)... the comparison of raptors may be of interest. However, a couple of odd bods just for fun.
Seen out of Silverton near the set of the next Mad Max movie was this Ultralite which passed overhead and gave us a wave
Seen at Fogg Dam on the day they were erecting the 'No Drones' signage.
Wishing all of you a Happy New Year.
A total to be proud of Sue. Have loved everyone's contributions, both in variety and quality.
Dale Huonville, Tasmania
Thanks Dale, it has been fun especially meeting up with some of you. Fantastic variety and photos from everyone.
What a year Sue! Congrats on getting 359! It was nice to meet you. Looking forward to see what this year brings you. :)
What a wonderful year Sue. 359!! And across so much of the country too. It's been a joy seeing what you've turned up along the way.
You've got so many exceptional photos of some incredible birds but I have to call out your Varied Lorikeet; just beautiful. Thank you for sharing your trips and experiences with us all :)
Congrats on your impressive tally this year, Sue. Thanks also for your help with IDs this year, much appreciated :)
Thanks to all of you for the comradeship and fun. It was a fantastic and unexpected Big Year. You need to see those Varied Lorikeets to really appreciate them, Tommmy but thank you for picking that bird as a favourite.
Congrats on your huge total this year Sue, what a fantastic year you have had!
Thanks, Karen, it was a great year so I might go slow in 2023! Meeting some of the gang and joining in the fun was most rewarding.
What a super Big Year you had, Sue - well done! Its been wonderful seeing all your birds :-)
Here is to a Big 2023!
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