The eleven COG members who participated in this outing were treated to a birdwatching spectacular. The count time was 3hrs and 20 mins. We saw thousands and thousands (13,516 in total) of migrating birds. Approximately 90% were Yellow faced Honeyeaters. There were a good number of White-naped Honeyeaters, some White-eared and Fuscous Honeyeaters, Red Wattlebirds and a few Eastern Spinebills. It was like watching shoals of fish turning and flashing in the sunlight.
Flocks of Red Wattlebirds had begun congregating at the top of the hill from 11am. They were more reluctant to make the jump across the river than the smaller honeyeaters. We counted 210 Red Wattlebirds that did pass. Many more were milling about.
Our viewing spot was about 1 km from the crossing as we descended from the Tharwa side. The land has formed a small ridge and we parked near the farm gate. At the top of the main ridge there are the remains of a good stand of burnt pines. Just as you start to descend to crossing there is a group of remnant eucalypts. The honeyeaters used these eucalypts to gather before braving the open space. They headed down towards the river and are expected to have travelled through Williamsdale.
The raptors featured as well. When we arrived at approx 9am a Peregrine Falcon was hawking. It was so fast. Between hunting forays we had very good views of it as it perched high in the trees. It was possible to see its yellow lower legs and claws. Later it was joined in the air by a mate. Still later, in the distance we could see small birds dive bombing a Wedge-tailed Eagle. The ravens put in an appearance. A flock of 120 Little Ravens flew high overhead.
The migration spectacular was still in full swing as we left around 12.30pm.
Julienne Kamprad & Nicki Taws