Rabbits are a continuing feral pest at our place in SA. Numbers are building as they are wont to do in autumn & early winter. On Thursday of this week Ms Woko & I were delighted to observe a Little Eagle predating one of the rabbit population of around 7.
This is the second successive year we've had extended visits from a Little Eagle. We've only twice before seen this species. A similar pattern applies to the Black Kite which has visited for extended stays for about 3 years although it hasn't appeared so far this year.
Perhaps rabbit numbers here will be controlled by these wonderful raptors now that we have what seems to be more suitable habitat for them. Which has got me thinking about the possibility that the mice plague currently ravaging large areas of Australia, particularly NSW, may have been smaller had we not been so addicted to destroying so much natural habitat to satisfy our profligate wants. Maybe more protected & restored habitats would mean more raptors, less mice & less poison in the food chain. But then, while old habitats are quickly destroyed, old habits die hard.
I was surprised and saddened not to see a single Wedge-tailed Eagle on a trip to western NSw and Qld a month or so ago. Sadly we did see a number of dead Galahs each day in Warren, NSW... suggesting poisoned grain was around with the mouse plague in that area.
Your property is a beacon for us, Woko. Keep up the good work and enjoy the fruits of your labour.
Thanks, sue. I must say I enjoy reporting on various "interesting sightings". Thanks for your encouragement!