Our regular January trip to the Brindabellas had to be changed this year due to closure of Namadji National Park. Undaunted, (despite very hot weather) 19 of us extended our normally brief stay at Uriarra Homestead Dam and visited two sites on the Murrumbidgee near Uriarra Crossing.
The dam was particularly good this year, probably reflecting dry conditions elsewhere, and 41 species is the most I have ever recorded in more than a decade of COG outings to that site. There were large numbers of ducks (wood, black, Grey Teal and Hardhead) grebes (both species in breeding plumage), coots and allies. Popular highlights were Sacred Kingfisher, Latham's Snipe and an immature Nankeen Night Heron.
At Uriarra Crossing we recorded 37 species mainly bush birds. There were good sightings of several Mistletoebirds (probably breeding) and Buff-rumped Thornbills and Grey Fantails with dependent young.
Under the casuarinas at Uriarra East was a pleasant relief from the midday sun. The highlight of the whole trip was clearly a pair of fledgling Dollarbirds on the ground and resting in the shade, with parents some distance away. Red-browed Finches, and Willie Wagtails also had dependent young.
In all, 67 species probably wasn't a bad result for a rehashed outing.
The Blundells Creek Rd walk will be held on 17 March.
Bruce Lindenmayer