The weather wasn't too bad,there was even some sunshine.So we made the 200 Km trip down to St Leonard, in the hope to find some waders. There were none. Large flocks of Pelicans, Ibis and about 20 White-faced Herons fishing in the lagoon.
But I had an experience I had never had before, there were at least 6 Fan-tailed Cuckoos in the trees next to me. The sun was very bright, and taking photos of them wasn't that easy. But I tried. On the way back to the car, suddenly this White-faced Heron sat in a tree right infront of me. It wasn't worried about me at all, but again, I had problems taking good photos because of the bright light behind the bird. All I could do, was try. Here is the result.
one Fan-tailed Cuckoo
and the White-faced Heron in a tree I had better days, this one was just alright I guess.
I have a question, the white-faced Heron in the first photos had no fear, it just sat infront of us in the tree. Do you think it was a juvenile?? It looked different to the one in breeding colours. The eyes looked a lot whiter too.
M-L
As always M L very good clean shots.
See it! Hear it!
Mid-North Coast NSW
Great shots, I really like the cuckoo one.
These are great shots, M-L. I am seeing more white faced herons around lately than I ever have, and am delighted it is so. I've only seen one juvenile up close (it too didn't seem to be concerned about us being so close), but it seemed to be a paler grey with white-ish flecks through its feathers (could have been new feather growth too).
Karen
Brisbane southside.
same:)!!!!!!
Great shots M-L! Must have gotten close to the Heron.
I still haven't checked out Edward's Point yet.
Cheers, Owen.
It's not easy to find, it took us a few goes and the help of the GPS,LOL
It's a long walk to the point, and you'll get eaten by mozzies, the wadwers should be back soon.
M-L
no, I believe that it is adult
I believe that the juveniles have a lighter grey head/neck and therefore the white-face is not so discrete
Peter