We found this little flock in Irrawong Reserve, across the road from Warriewood Wetlands. The shape and behaviour of the mystery bird seemed to similar to a Brown Gerygone or some type of Thornbill. But they had black faces, similar to Black-faced Monarchs. The little flock never stayed still for any length of time. They were insect eaters, not honey eaters, in the top of a tree. We had earlier identified Brown Gerygones in the area.
Can anyone identify this bird? I have uploaded a photo as well.
Thanks!
Diann
Hi Diann, the other week one of the other members, sue818 (14/08/12 Mystery bird) posted a very similar post in this forum.
Owen1 identified sue818's bird as being a Brown Gerygone. Have a look, you might find it interesting
Cheers, Jackie
Our mystery bird looks just like the one Sue818 posted on (14/08/12 ). If it is a Brown Gerygone, it is a new variety for me. We definitely identified some Brown Gerygones earlier that day. They didn't have black faces. And no books I have come across show them with black faces. Are there varieties of Gerygone that migrate from overseas??
Diann
I would never guess Brown Gerygone, the face just looks wrong. However, there is a certain way to tell. Download a call of Brown Gerygone to your phone or mp3 player. Listen and learn it. If you go back to the spot you saw them at, play the call a couple of times. If the birds come into it to investigate, you can be pretty sure the ID is spot on. Cheers. (I am not doubting Owen BTW).
This is definitely a Brown Gerygone - I watched a family of these lovelies today, frolicking and playing in what appeared to be mating behaviour. Also I have identified a Gerygone nest in this area, and watched the birds visit the nest today.
I have no idea what's going on with the black faces but the rest of the body resembles a Brown Gerygone
Cheers, Owen.