Superb Lyrebird (Menura novaehollandiae)

Superb Lyrebirds are a contoversial species in Tasmania. Introduced to National Park in the 1930s and Hastings Cave area in the 1950s, as an insurance population for mainland populations (appeartently hunted for the male's tail feathers when in breeding plaumge?).

Conditions in Tasmania's wet eucalypt forests are apparently ideal, and populations are becoming widespread accross the state, including the Southwest National Park World Heritage Area. The impact is somewhat controversial, with many believing they are changing the ecology of the forest. I won't enter that discussion, it is not their fault they are here. Superb Lyrebirds are currently listed as "least concern" in Tasmania.

I was fortunate enough to have a close encounter with an individual on the Mystery Creek Cave track recently. Stopped to fill my water bottle, put the camera down in a "safe spot", when I heard this beauty behind me. Only a few metres away. I was able to retrieve the camera and spent 20 or so minutes being serenaded by this lovely. Many individuals were heard on this short walk, but only 1 made an appearance.

A few photos for you to enjoy. Only small crops and minimal processing.

Superb Lyrebird (Menura novaehollandiae) by Dale Watson, on FlickrSuperb Lyrebird (Menura novaehollandiae) by Dale Watson, on FlickrSuperb Lyrebird (Menura novaehollandiae) by Dale Watson, on FlickrSuperb Lyrebird (Menura novaehollandiae) by Dale Watson, on FlickrSuperb Lyrebird (Menura novaehollandiae) by Dale Watson, on FlickrSuperb Lyrebird (Menura novaehollandiae) by Dale Watson, on Flickr