In a break with usual tradition, we will hold an evening walk, both to escape the heat of mid-February, and in an attempt to see or hear Bush Stone-Curlews, Southern Boobooks, Owlet-nightjars and other night species. Meet at the carpark spaces on Eric Wright St in Forde at 7pm. I expect the walk to take 2-3 hours.
Walking will be on tracks.
Please bring a torch (headlamp or normal torch). If you have a small portable spotlight that may be useful if we find birds/animals. Wear sturdy shoes, and insect repellent may be useful.
Numbers will be strictly limited – I will accept registrations from the first 16 people to contact me. Please provide your name and mobile number, and name and mobile number of an emergency contact.
Sandra Henderson shirmax2931@gmail.com
Most attendees for the 7 pm outing arrived early and congratulated Sandra on the excellent weather and sensible choice of start time. They’d also noted the numerous rabbits, feeding on the short grass, near the parking area, and the kangaroos inside the fence among the long grass, as well as Eastern Rosellas, Crimson Rosellas and Noisy Miners flying around.
We walked along to the gate through the electrified fence and, once inside, our first highlight of the evening was an Echidna. Shortly after we had excellent views of a young Australasian Grebe with a beautiful striped head, and of one of its parents, and rather more distant views of a few Pacific Black Ducks. During observation of the water birds we also saw Pied Currawong, Noisy Friarbird, Australian Magpie and Sulphur-crested Cockatoo, and heard White-throated Treecreeper and Grey Butcherbird.
We had good views of several of the many Red-necked Wallabies in the reserve.
The second highlight of the outing was also not a bird; unfortunately the Spotted-tailed Quoll was seen by only a few of the party as it moved into cover very quickly.
Following that the light faded and hence the several Grey Fantail, Laughing Kookaburra and more White-throated Treecreepers were heard but not seen.
It didn’t get really dark until we were a fair way on our return journey.
We also saw Ring-tailed Possum and Brush-tailed Possum. Attendees agreed Sandra’s idea of an evening Wednesday walk was excellent and should be done again next summer.
Michael Robbins
