Winter 2024 Bird Survey Highlights: Breeding, Flock Trends, and a Look Ahead to Spring

Thank you to everyone who contributed to the winter 2024 bird surveys! Whether you're a seasoned birdwatcher or new to the team, your participation is critical to understanding the birds that live where we live. Let’s dive into some of the fascinating trends we saw this winter, with some surprising shifts and exciting breeding activity.

National Highlights: Australian Magpies on Top!

This winter’s surveys brought in some incredible data from across the country. Topping the list as the most frequently observed bird was the Australian Magpie with a reporting rate (RR) of 40.14%. Following closely were the ever dominant Rainbow Lorikeet (34.75%) and the Magpie-lark (33.05%). These three species dominated the winter counts and have consistently shown their adaptability to a range of environments, from urban parks to rural towns.

Other notable species making a strong showing include the Brown Honeyeater (28.65%) and the Spotted Dove (24.82%). However, a surprising trend this winter was the Noisy Miner’s drop to 10th place—a significant shift from its usual spot in the top three. We’re still investigating whether this decline reflects an actual population change, particularly in Queensland, or simply different survey locations where this aggressive species might not be as dominant.

This shift highlights how important repeat surveys are. While it might seem like nothing changes in your local park or garden, year-round observations help us track these fluctuations and pinpoint potential causes for population shifts. 

Crowds of Carnaby’s: A Conservation Story in the Making

While we often focus on the reporting rate of each species, we also track abundance—the number of individual birds recorded in each survey. This winter, one of the most exciting stories was the abundance of Carnaby’s Black-Cockatoos in Western Australia. Although their RR was relatively low, large flocks were recorded around Perth, with up to 60 birds spotted in a single survey!

These observations are critical for understanding the seasonal behavior of this threatened species and identifying key habitats for conservation. Large gatherings of Carnaby’s Black-Cockatoos highlight the importance of protecting the areas they flock to, particularly as they prepare for breeding in spring.

If you're in Western Australia, you can get involved in important conservation efforts by participating in CockyWatch or the Spring Cocky Count coming up on October 13. Your contributions will help us safeguard the future of these iconic birds.

Breeding Behaviors: It’s Not Quite Spring, But...

Though winter is typically a quieter time for breeding, some birds were already gearing up for the season ahead. For instance, in the Northern Territory, Bar-shouldered Doves were observed with young out of the nest, showcasing their ability to breed year-round in warmer climates.

Meanwhile, Magpie-larks , known for their black and white plumage and loud calls, were one of the standout species this winter. Breeding pairs were recorded across the Northern Territory and coastal Queensland, actively building nests and feeding their young. These territorial birds thrive in both natural and urban environments, making them a common sight in our parks and gardens. Their adaptable diet of insects, seeds, and even human food scraps means they can find sustenance year-round, contributing to their success in breeding outside of the typical spring months.

Magpie-larks are also known for their defensive nature, with both males and females sharing the duties of nest-building and protecting their territory—whether it’s against a rival bird or their own reflection in a window!

Why Your Observations Matter

Winter 2024 provided invaluable insights into both familiar and rare bird behaviours, thanks to your observations. From the steady presence of Australian Magpies to the breeding activities of Bar-shouldered Doves, every sighting helps us build a bigger picture of Australia’s bird populations in our urban areas. It’s these trends—whether they seem routine or extraordinary—that contribute to conservation decisions.

Get Ready for Spring: Time to Join the Next Survey!

As we move into spring, bird activity will begin to ramp up. Many species that remained quiet during winter will start breeding, and migratory birds will return (hey east coasters, its cuckoo season...). This is a perfect time to take part in one of our surveys and contribute to our growing understanding of birdlife in Australia.

Whether you're spotting birds in your backyard, at a local park, or in more remote locations, your observations are key. Register for our spring surveys and help us track the trends that matter.