Birdingonthe.NetRecent Postings from
> Home > Mail |
Peruvian Recurvebill,©BirdQuest |
|
12 May Re: ...now Apostlebirds ["Kurtis Lindsay" ] 12 May Re: BLUE-FACED HONEYEATERS...now Apsotlebirds ["Graham Turner" ] 12 May RFI: Central West NSW ["Troy Mutton" ] 12 May Christidis & Boles 2008 change list ["Tim Dolby" ] 12 May Re: Grey Falcon(s), Karratha, WA, 11-05-2008 ["Graham Turner" ] 12 May Re: common birds - quiz [SEC=UNOFFICIAL] [] 12 May Re: spotlighting and bird's eyes [Andrew Taylor ] 12 May Re: BLUE-FACED HONEYEATERS ["Stephen Ambrose" ] 12 May Re: Kelp Gulls - Port Fairy, VIC ["Mike Carter" ] 12 May Re: BLUE-FACED HONEYEATERS ["Peter Madvig" ] 12 May Re: Kelp Gulls - Port Fairy, VIC [] 12 May Stock routes in Queensland [peter crow ] 12 May Kelp Gulls - Port Fairy, VIC [] 12 May Grey Falcon(s), Karratha, WA, 11-05-2008 ["Nathan Waugh" ] 12 May RE: Amazing birding experiences - honeyeater migration(racing pigeons) [Carol Probets ] 12 May RE: sick currawong - white feet ["storm" ] 12 May Re: NSW - A weekend of Sydney rarities - 10 to 11th May 2008 [Carol Probets ] 11 May sick currawong - white feet ["Carolyn Watkins" ] 12 May ABC 702 Sydney this morning ["Arwen B. Ximenes" ] 9 May Australia Land of Parrots to be repeated 4pm Saturday ["Billinghurst, David \(RTATECH\)" ] 12 May RE: Amazing birding experiences - honeyeater migration(racing pigeons) ["Arwen B. Ximenes" ] 11 May NSW - A weekend of Sydney rarities - 10 to 11th May 20008 ["Edwin Vella" ] 11 May BLUE-FACED HONEYEATERS ["kbrandwood" ] 11 May re: Keys to Cheetham Salt-works, Adelaide SA ["Kevin and Lizzie" ] 11 May Yellow-tailed Black Cockatoos [John Tongue ] 10 May Maitland Birding [Grant Brosie ] 11 May Amazing birding experiences - honeyeater migration (racing pigeons) ["Arwen B. Ximenes" ] 11 May Re: Amazing birding experiences - honeyeater migration [John Tongue ] 11 May Amazing birding experiences - honeyeater migration ["Arwen B. Ximenes" ] 11 May Re: Amazing birding experiences - honeyeater migration [Carol Probets ] 11 May Peregrine nest webcam ["Dave Torr" ] 10 May Re: common birds - quiz [SEC=UNOFFICIAL] [Mick Roderick ] 10 May Re: Sydney Olympic Park ["Darryl McKay" ] 10 May Re: common bird quiz [John Tongue ] 10 May common bird quiz ["Jackett family" ] 10 May Re: spotlighting and bird's eyes ["Michelle Plant" ] 10 May Sydney Olympic Park ["maxb99 AT iinet.net.au" ] 10 May High levels of contamination in urban Peregrines [L&L Knight ] 10 May RE: spotlighting and bird's eyes ["Steve" ] 10 May spotlighting and bird's eyes ["Ashwin Rudder" ] 10 May RE: Re: Local extinction! [Peter Ewin ] 10 May Regent Honeyeaters. ["Bruce Cox" ] 10 May RE: Birdinfo ["Tony Russell" ] 9 May Re: common birds - quiz [SEC=UNOFFICIAL] ["Elizabeth Shaw" ] 9 May Australia: Land of Parrots Re-screening [Martin ] 9 May Re: Toads [Andrew Taylor ] 9 May Re: Keys to Cheetham Salt-works, Adelaide SA ["Dean Cutten" ] 9 May RFI: Mainland locations for Sooty Oystercatchers in North Queensland. Update. ["Robert Inglis" ] 09 May Re: Common bird quiz [Frank O'Connor ] 9 May RFI: Mainland locations for Sooty Oystercatchers in North Queensland. ["Robert Inglis" ] 09 May Birdinfo [Kingfisher Park Birdwatchers Lodge ] 9 May Re: Collared Sparrowhawk or Brown Goshawk? ["Greg & Val Clancy" ] Subject: Re: ...now Apostlebirds From: "Kurtis Lindsay" <littleheath1 AT bigpond.com> Date: Mon, 12 May 2008 17:29:00 +1000 The Apostlebirds from Featherdale Wildlife park at Doonside can be found living freely outside some of the large aviaries in the park grounds. Also frequently found roaming the park are Buff-banded Rail (possibly escapees), breeding Cattle Egret and Collared Turtledove. I have also see Apostlebirds at nearby Nurragingy reserve. I believe the B-A archives hold substantial records of Sydney's Apostlebirds. Kurtis Lindsay ----- Original Message ----- From: "Graham Turner"Subject: Re: BLUE-FACED HONEYEATERS...now Apsotlebirds From: "Graham Turner" <origma AT ozemail.com.au> Date: Mon, 12 May 2008 13:58:36 +1000 I saw Apostlebirds near Blacktown in January of this year. I assumed they came from Pine Grove Cemetery, where they are said to be resident. I understand these are escapees from Featherdale Zoo which have now formed a self sustaining population. Cheers Graham Turner ----- Original Message ----- From: "Peter Madvig"Subject: RFI: Central West NSW From: "Troy Mutton" <t.mutton AT library.usyd.edu.au> Date: Mon, 12 May 2008 15:20:25 +1000 Hi All, I'm heading out for a 3-4 day trip to Round Hill NR, Weddin Mts, and anywhere else in the area that takes my fancy. Has anyone been there recently and have any advice on places to investigate? I will be accompanied by my non-birding partner, so apart from a leave pass to spend a good 4-5 hours at Round Hill - it's my birthday present to myself - any locations on Sydney -> Round Hill via Grenfell round trip will have to be fairly nearish main roads. I'm working on a visit to the Capertee on the way back, but we'll see how that pans out when we are on the home stretch. If anyone has been to Round Hill recently, do you have any advice on where I might find a Spotted Bowerbird, Southern Scrub-Robin or Chestnut Quail-thrush? I have the Thomas & Thomas info, have scoured the archives and found some good information on some of the targets, but any current information much appreciated. I have contacted NPWS and left a message letting them know I'm passing through. Cheers, Troy ==============================www.birding-aus.org birding-aus.blogspot.com To unsubscribe from this mailing list, send the message: unsubscribe (in the body of the message, with no Subject line) to: birding-aus-request AT vicnet.net.au ==============================Subject: Christidis & Boles 2008 change list From: "Tim Dolby" <Tim.Dolby AT vu.edu.au> Date: Mon, 12 May 2008 14:10:27 +1000 Hi birders, Someone did a nice summary of all the changes in the new Christidis and Boles 2008. Has anyone got a copy (or web link) of those changes? (Note that I'm not after the list itself.) Cheers, Tim Dolby ==============================www.birding-aus.org birding-aus.blogspot.com To unsubscribe from this mailing list, send the message: unsubscribe (in the body of the message, with no Subject line) to: birding-aus-request AT vicnet.net.au ==============================Subject: Re: Grey Falcon(s), Karratha, WA, 11-05-2008 From: "Graham Turner" <origma AT ozemail.com.au> Date: Mon, 12 May 2008 13:53:51 +1000 What a great sighting...Nephurus must be one of the best looking geckos around. Graham Turner ----- Original Message ----- From: "Nathan Waugh"Subject: Re: common birds - quiz [SEC=UNOFFICIAL] From: <Harvey.PERKINS AT Dest.gov.au> Date: Mon, 12 May 2008 12:29:20 +1000 Hi again, As expected, a variety of possibilities (32 in fact) put forward. Chance played a very large part in my final five species common to all states/territories, and the limiting places were very clearly Alice Springs and the far NW of Tassie. Part of what intrigued me about the five species when I first noted them was that they were NOT what I necessarily would have expected myself. Four are no surprise but the fifth was unexpected (and consequently no one guessed it). The five are: White-faced Heron Cattle Egret Silver Gull Galah Grey Butcherbird So special mention goes to Grant Brosie who top-scored with 2 correct guesses. The following species were nominated as possibles by the 12 respondents: (number of times nominated in brackets) Black Swan (1) Pacific Black Duck (2) Little Pied Cormorant (1) Australian Pelican (1) White-faced Heron (1) Great Egret (1) Wedge-tailed Eagle (3) Brown Falcon (3) Nankeen Kestrel (1) Eurasian Coot (2) Silver Gull (4) Caspian Tern (1) Galah (1) Sulphur-crested Cockatoo (2) Pallid Cuckoo (1) Southern Boobook (1) Tawny Frogmouth (1) Owlet Nightjar (1) Sacred Kingfisher (1) Striated Pardalote (2) Yellow-rumped Thornbill (2) White-plumed Honeyeater (1) Grey Shrike-thrush (1) Magpie Lark (3) Grey Fantail (3) Willie Wagtail (4) Black-faced Cuckoo-shrike (2) Grey Butcherbird (1) Australian Magpie (6) Welcome Swallow (1) Tree Martin (1) Mistletoebird (2) The comment about Burnie and hinterland (where Australian Magpies are apparently not real common) was meant to account for its absence from the group of five - it did received the most nominations (6). Hope some of you had fun - it was fun seeing the responses. Cheers, Harvey Harvey Perkins Canberra Classification: UNOFFICIAL ==============================www.birding-aus.org birding-aus.blogspot.com To unsubscribe from this mailing list, send the message: unsubscribe (in the body of the message, with no Subject line) to: birding-aus-request AT vicnet.net.au ==============================Subject: Re: spotlighting and bird's eyes From: Andrew Taylor <andrewt AT cse.unsw.edu.au> Date: Mon, 12 May 2008 12:15:54 +1000 On Sat, May 10, 2008 at 06:06:32PM +1000, Michelle Plant wrote: > I cannot think of the name of the filters, > but they must be fairly common these days... to provide some > protection for critters when spotlighting... Red filters are commonly used on torches/spotlights to reduce disturbance of mammals and sea turtles. But turtles and many mammals have less visual sensitivity in the red part of spectrum than we do. But I doubt it will work for most birds - they have broader visual sensitivity than we do. Unless you go to a night-scope and infra-red illumination. Andrew =============================== www.birding-aus.org birding-aus.blogspot.com To unsubscribe from this mailing list, send the message: unsubscribe (in the body of the message, with no Subject line) to: birding-aus-request AT vicnet.net.au ===============================Subject: Re: BLUE-FACED HONEYEATERS From: "Stephen Ambrose" <stephen AT ambecol.com.au> Date: Mon, 12 May 2008 11:31:06 +1000 I also saw a flock of about 20 Zebra Finches at Hickeys Park, Penrith about four weeks ago. They were seen drinking from a temporary rain pool on the side of the bicycle track through the park. I'm not sure if they are seen there regularly, but I suspect they were attracted to the coastal side of the Range because of the widespread rains and abundance of seeding grasses. Cheers, Stephen Ambrose Ryde, NSW -----Original Message----- From: birding-aus-bounces AT vicnet.net.au [mailto:birding-aus-bounces AT vicnet.net.au] On Behalf Of Peter Madvig Sent: Monday, 12 May 2008 11:12 AM To: kbrandwood; birdingaus Subject: Re: [Birding-Aus] BLUE-FACED HONEYEATERS Following on from Keith and Ed Vella's listings for the Sydney area, I have a report from Cranebrook north of Penrith of a flock of Apostle birds - how often do they occur this side of the range?? Cheers Peter Madvig ----- Original Message ----- From: "kbrandwood"Subject: Re: Kelp Gulls - Port Fairy, VIC From: "Mike Carter" <pterodroma AT bigpond.com> Date: Mon, 12 May 2008 11:11:43 +1000 It is surprising but true I think, that Kelp Gulls are not frequently seen on the coast in SW Victoria. Surprising because there is a thriving breeding colony on Lady Julia Percy Island (LJPI) just some 20 km west of Port Fairy. 10 to 26+ are regularly seen on the Port Fairy pelagics which call there on their return legs. Why LJPI? Because there is a huge Seal colony there as there is at Seal Rocks off Phillip Island, the only other regular Kelp Gull breeding site in Victoria. Mike Carter 30 Canadian Bay Road Mount Eliza VIC 3930 Tel (03) 9787 7136 ----- Original Message ----- From:Subject: Re: BLUE-FACED HONEYEATERS From: "Peter Madvig" <madvig AT iprimus.com.au> Date: Mon, 12 May 2008 11:11:34 +1000 Following on from Keith and Ed Vella's listings for the Sydney area, I have a report from Cranebrook north of Penrith of a flock of Apostle birds - how often do they occur this side of the range?? Cheers Peter Madvig ----- Original Message ----- From: "kbrandwood"Subject: Re: Kelp Gulls - Port Fairy, VIC From: steveclark AT eftel.net.au Date: Mon, 12 May 2008 08:53:52 +0800 (WST) G'day David (every time one of your emails pops in to my inbox I think its my son David - he's overseas and doesn't correspond enough) Kelp Gulls have been breeding on Julia Percy Island for a while now. I'm not sure for how long or what their numbers are now but lately, along the whole south-west coast, I reckon a large gull is just as likely to be a Kelp Gull as a Pacific Gull. Cheers Steve Clark Hamilton, Victoria =============================== www.birding-aus.org birding-aus.blogspot.com To unsubscribe from this mailing list, send the message: unsubscribe (in the body of the message, with no Subject line) to: birding-aus-request AT vicnet.net.au ===============================Subject: Stock routes in Queensland From: peter crow <corvusp AT optusnet.com.au> Date: Mon, 12 May 2008 10:50:28 +1000 Queensland still has an extensive system of stock routes. some are good corridors of native vegetation and in spite of 150 years of use still are good places to find native grasses and other vegetation. A government review is currently in hand and there has been a fear that many may be closed , sold or leased for full time grazing. A coalition of groups including Birds Australia, BOCA, Birds Queensland, Queensland Conservation Council, Wildlife Preservation Society of Queensland, National Parks Association and many others have been working to ensure they are kept and maintained as corridors of biodiversity. A similar campaign is underway in NSW to conserve their remaining stock routes. There has been some success in Queensland as evidenced by the Ministers Press release below. Peter Minister for Natural Resources and Water and Minister Assisting the Premier in North Queensland The Honourable Craig Wallace 08/05/2008 STOCK ROUTES TO STAY IN QUEENSLAND, SAYS WALLACE The Queensland Government has no intention to sell off or lease Queensland's iconic stock route network - in part or whole, Natural Resources and Water Minister Craig Wallace said today. "Droving stock is alive and well on Queensland's stock routes and likely to increase in future as the price of petrol rises," Mr Wallace said. "The Queensland Government strongly supports these vital livestock routes - the so-called 'long paddock' - which covers 2.6 million hectares and runs for 72,000 kilometres," he said. As well as servicing the pastoral industry, stock routes have a role in protecting biodiversity. Mr Wallace said last year the government established a Stock Route Assessment Panel to the review the management and use of stock routes. "The panel has only recently completed the report and has provided it to me," Mr Wallace said. "I will look at this report in detail and announce the government's response to this report when that process is completed," he said. "However, I can say that this government has no intention to sell off or lease the stock route in part or in whole. "We are likely to see more, not less, stockmen and stockwomen droving mobs down stock routes in Queensland." Recent media reports have called on the Queensland Government not to sell or lease parts of the stock route. The Stock Route Assessment Panel included representatives from local government, cattle industry representatives nominated by Agforce Queensland, the Drovers Association and Land Protection Council members. Media inquiries: Paul Childs, Craig Wallace's office, on 0407 131 654 =============================== www.birding-aus.org birding-aus.blogspot.com To unsubscribe from this mailing list, send the message: unsubscribe (in the body of the message, with no Subject line) to: birding-aus-request AT vicnet.net.au ===============================Subject: Kelp Gulls - Port Fairy, VIC From: David.Clark AT dpcd.vic.gov.au Date: Mon, 12 May 2008 10:30:05 +1000 I stopped for a coffee at Port Fairy on Friday morning (9 May) on my way to a meeting at Heywood and took the opportunity to have a quick look at Griffiths Island and the wetlands. There were seven large gulls which I first thought were Pacific Gulls. However, as I got closer I realised that four were actually Kelp Gulls (three adults and one immature). Having recently spent three days staying in a shack in Tasmania with 100s of Kelp Gulls for neighbours and with three Pacific Gulls (one adult and two immature) for comparison it was quite easy to identify the Kelp Gulls, particularly when they began calling and displaying. I haven't seen (or noticed) Kelp Gulls in Victoria before and I don't know if they are commonly seen in the Port Fairy area but it may be worth a trip if you desperately want to see Kelp Gulls. Regards David ********************************************************************** Any personal or sensitive information contained in this email and attachments must be handled in accordance with the Victorian Information Privacy Act 2000, the Health Records Act 2001 or the Privacy Act 1988 (Commonwealth), as applicable. This email, including all attachments, is confidential. If you are not the intended recipient, you must not disclose, distribute, copy or use the information contained in this email or attachments. Any confidentiality or privilege is not waived or lost because this email has been sent to you in error. If you have received it in error, please let us know by reply email, delete it from your system and destroy any copies. ********************************************************************** =============================== www.birding-aus.org birding-aus.blogspot.com To unsubscribe from this mailing list, send the message: unsubscribe (in the body of the message, with no Subject line) to: birding-aus-request AT vicnet.net.au ===============================Subject: Grey Falcon(s), Karratha, WA, 11-05-2008 From: "Nathan Waugh" <nathan.waugh AT gmail.com> Date: Mon, 12 May 2008 08:24:09 +0800 Hi, After an amazing night of spotlighting looking for reptiles on Saturday night I came back from Pannawonica very satisfied (Nepherus wheeleri will do that to you, Oh and a Northern Quoll). This satisfaction turned to pure exhilaration when just outside of Karratha I noticed 2 birds of prey with a very 'grey' feel about them. As my thoughts processed what I had seen, three or four seconds later I slammed on the brakes, turned back and pulled up in a completely 'safe' manner. Two Grey Falcons were circling high over the quarry providing sensational views of both the under and upper sides. Very dark primaries both on the under and upper sides were the most conspicuous feature at the distance I was viewing them at (apart from the pale grey upper parts!). After watching the birds for 5 minutes I managed a terrible photo of one of the birds. All the recent rains this area has been having and the fact that the two birds were together may suggest some breeding activity was taking place. I'll keep an eye out. Happy birding, Nathan Waugh Karratha, WA =============================== www.birding-aus.org birding-aus.blogspot.com To unsubscribe from this mailing list, send the message: unsubscribe (in the body of the message, with no Subject line) to: birding-aus-request AT vicnet.net.au ===============================Subject: RE: Amazing birding experiences - honeyeater migration(racing pigeons) From: Carol Probets <origma AT lisp.com.au> Date: Mon, 12 May 2008 08:48:58 +1000 Topknot Pigeons are surprisingly rare in the Blue Mountains, in fact I'm only aware of one sighting - the one seen by Evan Beaver last year at Blaxland. Like Arwen, I also saw a large tight flock of pigeons on the weekend going over my house at Katoomba. My first thought was "Are they Topknots?" but on looking closer realised they were just racing pigeons. Must have been the weekend for them to be out. Cheers, Carol At 8:05 AM +1000 12/5/08, Arwen B. Ximenes wrote: >Dear Kurtis, >Thanks for your suggestion, I hadn't thought of that - although I >think they're unlikely to be Topknots in the Blue Mountains >(although I may stand corrected). From your comparison of the flight >of these two birds I would think they were Ferals. cheers, Arwen > >......................................... Arwen Blackwood Ximenes >Lawson, Blue Mountains, NSWarwenbx AT hotmail.com > From: >littleheath1 AT bigpond.com> To: arwenbx AT hotmail.com> Subject: Re: >[Birding-Aus] Amazing birding experiences - honeyeater >migration(racing pigeons)> Date: Sun, 11 May 2008 18:20:54 +1000> > >Arwen,> > Are you sure the Pigeons weren't Topknots?> These guys can >form pretty tight, large flocks and fly around in circles > quite >high in the sky.> From a distance their colouration depicts the >'bluebar' colouration of Feral > Pigeon, Topknots are generally >longer, with larger tails and fly at a slower > speed than the >Ferals.> > Kurtis Lindsay> > ----- Original Message ----- > From: >"Arwen B. Ximenes"Subject: RE: sick currawong - white feet From: "storm" <miss_megan AT bigpond.com> Date: Mon, 12 May 2008 08:44:58 +1000 Your bird has scaly mite. You might be able to get ivermectin to dose the bird with. If you email me directly I am happy to discuss this with you. I am in Lewisham cheers storm -----Original Message----- From: birding-aus-bounces AT vicnet.net.au [mailto:birding-aus-bounces AT vicnet.net.au]On Behalf Of Carolyn Watkins Sent: Sunday, 11 May 2008 7:59 PM To: birding-aus AT vicnet.net.au Subject: [Birding-Aus] sick currawong - white feet Importance: High Hi there I've had a Currawong come to my balcony for the past 18-24 months. When it first came around it's feet looked like it was covered in mulched newspaper. It was small then and apart from the feet looked healthy otherwise. Well in the past week it is back again since last seeing it last year, it must be fully grown as it's a lot bigger now. However it still has the horrible feet and although it's not as thick, it's seemed to cope over the past 2 years. I live in Canterbury NSW. Unfortunately I can't catch it however it does let me close enough sometimes to hand feed it rye bread (that's with hand stretched out). Is there anything I can do or put in my tray for it to eat/drink? I googled and found the thread from Caroline Kelly in March 2007. Thanks Regards Carolyn Watkins ==========www.birding-aus.org birding-aus.blogspot.com To unsubscribe from this mailing list, send the message: unsubscribe (in the body of the message, with no Subject line) to: birding-aus-request AT vicnet.net.au =========== No virus found in this incoming message. Checked by AVG. Version: 7.5.524 / Virus Database: 269.23.15/1426 - Release Date: 10/05/2008 11:12 AM No virus found in this outgoing message. Checked by AVG. Version: 7.5.524 / Virus Database: 269.23.15/1426 - Release Date: 10/05/2008 11:12 AM =============================== www.birding-aus.org birding-aus.blogspot.com To unsubscribe from this mailing list, send the message: unsubscribe (in the body of the message, with no Subject line) to: birding-aus-request AT vicnet.net.au ===============================Subject: Re: NSW - A weekend of Sydney rarities - 10 to 11th May 2008 From: Carol Probets <origma AT lisp.com.au> Date: Mon, 12 May 2008 08:40:01 +1000 Hi Edwin and all, Re the Blue-faced Honeyeaters in western Sydney, Sandra Boxsell has also been seeing them periodically at Cranebrook near Penrith for the past few years. I included an item about this with one of Sandra's photos last year on my website: http://www.bmbirding.com.au/news3.html#blueys Cheers, Carol At 6:27 PM +1000 11/5/08, Edwin Vella wrote: > >It all first started at home in Seven Hills when just before I >headed out shopping, I heard the distinct whistling call of a >BLUE-FACED HONEYEATER, and I was soon observing an adult perching on >an antennae on the roof of the people behind us. Wow great to get a >rarity from your own backyard and a great way to start the weekend >too! Blue-faced Honeyeaters appear to be resident in only one spot >in Sydney that being at Wisemans Ferry area (approx. 80 km NW of >Sydney CBD) on the north-western outskirts of Sydney and >occassionally turn up in other parts of the Hawkesbury (Keith >Brandwood has seen some of the later birds) but in due course may >become well established in other parts of Sydney. > =============================== www.birding-aus.org birding-aus.blogspot.com To unsubscribe from this mailing list, send the message: unsubscribe (in the body of the message, with no Subject line) to: birding-aus-request AT vicnet.net.au ===============================Subject: sick currawong - white feet From: "Carolyn Watkins" <carokiwi AT dodo.com.au> Date: Sun, 11 May 2008 19:58:45 +1000 Hi there I've had a Currawong come to my balcony for the past 18-24 months. When it first came around it's feet looked like it was covered in mulched newspaper. It was small then and apart from the feet looked healthy otherwise. Well in the past week it is back again since last seeing it last year, it must be fully grown as it's a lot bigger now. However it still has the horrible feet and although it's not as thick, it's seemed to cope over the past 2 years. I live in Canterbury NSW. Unfortunately I can't catch it however it does let me close enough sometimes to hand feed it rye bread (that's with hand stretched out). Is there anything I can do or put in my tray for it to eat/drink? I googled and found the thread from Caroline Kelly in March 2007. Thanks Regards Carolyn Watkins ==============================www.birding-aus.org birding-aus.blogspot.com To unsubscribe from this mailing list, send the message: unsubscribe (in the body of the message, with no Subject line) to: birding-aus-request AT vicnet.net.au ==============================Subject: ABC 702 Sydney this morning From: "Arwen B. Ximenes" <arwenbx AT hotmail.com> Date: Mon, 12 May 2008 08:08:08 +1000 hi just a quick note to let ppl know that Deborah Cameron will be interviewing a twitcher this morning - I didn't catch the name but most of you probably know who he is - he's got 6000+ species on his list. I also didn't catch what time, but her program is from 8.30 - 11am. You can probably listen to it live on the internet elsewhere.Arwen ......................................... Arwen Blackwood Ximenes Lawson, Blue Mountains, NSWarwenbx AT hotmail.com _________________________________________________________________ Be part of history. Take part in Australia's first e-mail archive with Email Australia. http://emailaustralia.ninemsn.com.au==============================www.birding-aus.org birding-aus.blogspot.com To unsubscribe from this mailing list, send the message: unsubscribe (in the body of the message, with no Subject line) to: birding-aus-request AT vicnet.net.au ==============================Subject: Australia Land of Parrots to be repeated 4pm Saturday From: "Billinghurst, David \(RTATECH\)" <David.Billinghurst AT riotinto.com> Date: Fri, 9 May 2008 22:14:18 +1000 According to an ABC TV promo a few minutes ago, Australia Land of Parrots will be repeated at 4pm tomorrow (Saturday). NOTICE This e-mail and any attachments are private and confidential and may contain privileged information. If you are not an authorised recipient, the copying or distribution of this e-mail and any attachments is prohibited and you must not read, print or act in reliance on this e-mail or attachments. This notice should not be removed. ==============================www.birding-aus.org birding-aus.blogspot.com To unsubscribe from this mailing list, send the message: unsubscribe (in the body of the message, with no Subject line) to: birding-aus-request AT vicnet.net.au ==============================Subject: RE: Amazing birding experiences - honeyeater migration(racing pigeons) From: "Arwen B. Ximenes" <arwenbx AT hotmail.com> Date: Mon, 12 May 2008 08:05:33 +1000 Dear Kurtis, Thanks for your suggestion, I hadn't thought of that - although I think they're unlikely to be Topknots in the Blue Mountains (although I may stand corrected). From your comparison of the flight of these two birds I would think they were Ferals. cheers, Arwen ......................................... Arwen Blackwood Ximenes Lawson, Blue Mountains, NSWarwenbx AT hotmail.com > From: littleheath1 AT bigpond.com> To: arwenbx AT hotmail.com> Subject: Re: [Birding-Aus] Amazing birding experiences - honeyeater migration(racing pigeons)> Date: Sun, 11 May 2008 18:20:54 +1000> > Arwen,> > Are you sure the Pigeons weren't Topknots?> These guys can form pretty tight, large flocks and fly around in circles > quite high in the sky.> From a distance their colouration depicts the 'bluebar' colouration of Feral > Pigeon, Topknots are generally longer, with larger tails and fly at a slower > speed than the Ferals.> > Kurtis Lindsay> > ----- Original Message ----- > From: "Arwen B. Ximenes"Subject: NSW - A weekend of Sydney rarities - 10 to 11th May 20008 From: "Edwin Vella" <evella AT ozemail.com.au> Date: Sun, 11 May 2008 18:27:34 +1000 I was fortunate to observe 3 Sydney rarites over this weekend. It all first started at home in Seven Hills when just before I headed out shopping, I heard the distinct whistling call of a BLUE-FACED HONEYEATER, and I was soon observing an adult perching on an antennae on the roof of the people behind us. Wow great to get a rarity from your own backyard and a great way to start the weekend too! Blue-faced Honeyeaters appear to be resident in only one spot in Sydney that being at Wisemans Ferry area (approx. 80 km NW of Sydney CBD) on the north-western outskirts of Sydney and occassionally turn up in other parts of the Hawkesbury (Keith Brandwood has seen some of the later birds) but in due course may become well established in other parts of Sydney. Also that afternoon as I was doing a few chores around the home, one of our local Peregrine Falcons (this being the small male) was doing 2 rounds over me (they appear to fly past every half hour) over our backyard in Seven Hills. There were also several Musk Lorikeets around our place. On Sunday morning I did a few hours birding at Laughtondale Gully near Wisemans Ferry where I was able to add to my Sydney list a PIED BUTCHERBIRD. Keith Brandwood had 2 here about 2 months ago. Like the Blue-faced Honeyeater these may also become established in Sydney over time. Also at Laughtondale Gully this morning was a Chestnut-rumped Heathwren (great views), at least 10 Bar-shouldered Dove and loads of honeyeaters (and I mean loads) including Red and Little Wattlebirds, Noisy Friarbirds, Brown-headed, Yellow-tufted, White-eared, Yellow-faced, Fuscous, New-Holland and White-cheeked Honeyeaters and Eastern Spinebills. On my way up to Laughtondale Gully, I saw a White-headed Pigeon perched on powerlines (and calling) at Cornelia (between Cattai and Laughtondale Gully) and there were several Jacky Winters in the area. And finally during a family picnic this afternoon at Nurraging Reserve (near Blacktown approx. 40 km west of Sydney CBD) I had some SWIFT PARROTS and several Musk Lorikeets about. The Blacktown area is probably visted by Swift Parrots almost anually and it certainly worth keeping your eyes and ears open if driving through the area. Musk Lorikeets are common in this area also at the moment. I had a good wekend indeed. Edwin Vella ==============================www.birding-aus.org birding-aus.blogspot.com To unsubscribe from this mailing list, send the message: unsubscribe (in the body of the message, with no Subject line) to: birding-aus-request AT vicnet.net.au ==============================Subject: BLUE-FACED HONEYEATERS From: "kbrandwood" <kbrandwood AT bigpond.com> Date: Sun, 11 May 2008 18:18:06 +1000 Hello all, for Sydney Listers had a look for the Pied Butcherbirds which I had reported from Wisemans Ferry on two occasions in recent weeks. Didn't find any, but saw a group of 10 Blue-faced Honeyeaters. This is quiet an increase in numbers from previous reports of 5 individuals. Looks like they could be a regular tick on the County List from now on. The valley had 100's of Noisy Friar birds and Musk Lorikeets feeding on flowering Swamp Mahogany, but couldn't find any Swift Parrots in amongst them. Don't forget the Swift Parrot and Regent Honeyeater survey next weekend. keith b the beautiful Hawkesbury 60km N/W of Sydney ==============================www.birding-aus.org birding-aus.blogspot.com To unsubscribe from this mailing list, send the message: unsubscribe (in the body of the message, with no Subject line) to: birding-aus-request AT vicnet.net.au ==============================Subject: re: Keys to Cheetham Salt-works, Adelaide SA From: "Kevin and Lizzie" <dikkops AT gmail.com> Date: Sun, 11 May 2008 13:58:24 +0930 Unfortunately, as well as the problem of birders not returning keys, the records are not necessarily the best (which is understandable as those in Cheetham's office do have real jobs to do). I know this because shortly after Dean's experience in April, the company did try to phone those recorded as holding keys, which included me for a key I returned in January. As with other respondents, I would favour any system which ensures that Cheetham's Salt continue to allow access to the site as at present. Kevin Stracey =============================== www.birding-aus.org birding-aus.blogspot.com To unsubscribe from this mailing list, send the message: unsubscribe (in the body of the message, with no Subject line) to: birding-aus-request AT vicnet.net.au ===============================Subject: Yellow-tailed Black Cockatoos From: John Tongue <jspk AT iprimus.com.au> Date: Sun, 11 May 2008 17:20:50 +1000 Hi All, Just back from our weekly Sunday afternoon walk around Ulverstone. While we were out, we came upon some of our common, but feral Rainbow Lorikeets - quite alarming how they've been breeding up, and the government authorities are keeping an eye on them, as regards impact on competition with Swift Parrots. The highlight, though, was a flock of 52 Yellow-tailed Black Cockatoos. It's been a great season for them this year, with large numbers being seen quite regularly. John Tongue, Ulverstone, Tas. =============================== www.birding-aus.org birding-aus.blogspot.com To unsubscribe from this mailing list, send the message: unsubscribe (in the body of the message, with no Subject line) to: birding-aus-request AT vicnet.net.au ===============================Subject: Maitland Birding From: Grant Brosie <pictorella AT yahoo.com.au> Date: Sat, 10 May 2008 22:50:55 -0700 (PDT) Everyone,
Spent the morning birding around Walka Water Works, Maitland, NSW. This is a
great spot with a large body of water surrounded by reed beds and eucalypts.
First highlight was a Grey Goshawk keeping a watchful eye from an electricity
pole on the road in. Shame the light was on the wrong side as it would have
made a great pic.
There are many young Great-crested Grebe on the lake at the moment in various
phases of plumage. There seemed to be more Chestnut Teal then usual and I
couldn't find a single Musk Duck.
In the grass Red-browed Finches and 12 Goldfinches fed while Tree Martins
swooped from above. Several Reed Warblers were seen and heard, aren't they
migratory?
The eucalypts on the western shore was alive with large mixed feeding flocks.
One such flock contained the following:
10 Double-barred Finch
2 Yellow-rumped Thornbill
5 Yellow Thornbill
2 Grey Fantail
7 Superb Fairy-wren
2 Rose Robin
3 Willie Wagtail
10+ Yellow-faced Honeyeater
2 Silvereye
As I walked further around 2 Blackbirds shot across the path, a new bird for my
Walka list. Yellow-tailed Black-cockatoo and Long-billed Corella flew over
calling, and in the understory White-browed Scrubwrens and Yellow Robin were
just as noisy.
Very enjoyable morning with 54 species recorded around the lake.
Cheers,
Grant Brosie
Raworth, NSW
Get the name you always wanted with the new y7mail email address.
www.yahoo7.com.au/y7mail
==============================www.birding-aus.org
birding-aus.blogspot.com
To unsubscribe from this mailing list,
send the message:
unsubscribe
(in the body of the message, with no Subject line)
to: birding-aus-request AT vicnet.net.au
==============================
Subject: Amazing birding experiences - honeyeater migration
(racing pigeons)From: "Arwen B. Ximenes" <arwenbx AT hotmail.com> Date: Sun, 11 May 2008 14:37:52 +1000 yes, thanks. Indeed this makes a lot of sense, though I don't know anything about the sport - I have seen utes squished full of pigeons around from time to time, one not long ago - and I did wonder... incidentally, today's pigeons were probably the 'blue bar' type. It's rather a relief they're not 'wild' because there were a lot of them!btw - Happy Mother's Day to all the 'hens' out there. A ......................................... Arwen Blackwood Ximenes Lawson, Blue Mountains, NSWarwenbx AT hotmail.com > Date: Sun, 11 May 2008 13:44:42 +1000> To: arwenbx AT hotmail.com> From: abbt AT optusnet.com.au> Subject: Re: [Birding-Aus] Amazing birding experiences - honeyeater migration> > > > Sounds like racing pigeons> > Andy> > > > > >Carol, this makes more sense to me now because the first flocks of > >migrating honeyeaters I saw (at Lawson, approx. 15 kms east of > >Katoomba) were heading west. Then there seemed to be a shift > >northwards for a while, now they seem to be heading in both > >directions (I guess it just depends when you're looking out the > >window - some have been going south too - go figure!) I thought they > >would have started petering out by now - I'm going to miss them when > >they do. They like stopping off to feed in our Banksias (spinifolia, > >I think), so it would be nice to plant some more.> >> >While we're on flocks - this morning we saw flocks of 100 or so > >Feral Pigeons flying over Bullaburra and Lawson - they didn't seem > >to have any particular goal, just swooping around up high in fairly > >tight formations. Any idea what that's about?> >cheers,> >Arwen> >......................................... Arwen Blackwood Ximenes> >Lawson, Blue Mountains, NSWarwenbx AT hotmail.com> >_________________________________________________________________> >Search for local singles online AT Lavalife - Click here> >http://a.ninemsn.com.au/b.aspx?URL=http%3A%2F%2Flavalife9%2Eninemsn%2Ecom%2Eau%2Fclickthru%2Fclickthru%2Eact%3Fid%3Dninemsn%26context%3Dan99%26locale%3Den%5FAU%26a%3D30290&_t=764581033&_r=email_taglines_Search_OCT07&_m=EXTwww.birding-aus.org> >birding-aus.blogspot.com> >> >To unsubscribe from this mailing list,> >send the message:> >unsubscribe> >(in the body of the message, with no Subject line)> >to: birding-aus-request AT vicnet.net.au> _________________________________________________________________ Search for local singles online AT Lavalife - Click here http://a.ninemsn.com.au/b.aspx?URL=http%3A%2F%2Flavalife9%2Eninemsn%2Ecom%2Eau%2Fclickthru%2Fclickthru%2Eact%3Fid%3Dninemsn%26context%3Dan99%26locale%3Den%5FAU%26a%3D30290&_t=764581033&_r=email_taglines_Search_OCT07&_m=EXT==============================www.birding-aus.org birding-aus.blogspot.com To unsubscribe from this mailing list, send the message: unsubscribe (in the body of the message, with no Subject line) to: birding-aus-request AT vicnet.net.au ==============================Subject: Re: Amazing birding experiences - honeyeater migration From: John Tongue <jspk AT iprimus.com.au> Date: Sun, 11 May 2008 13:13:47 +1000 Hi Arwen, Could the pigeons be racing pigeons? Owners let them out most days for exercise, and they fly around 'aimlessly' in tight groups. John Tongue Ulverstone, TAs. On 11/05/2008, at 12:56 PM, Arwen B. Ximenes wrote: > > Carol, this makes more sense to me now because the first flocks of > migrating honeyeaters I saw (at Lawson, approx. 15 kms east of > Katoomba) were heading west. Then there seemed to be a shift > northwards for a while, now they seem to be heading in both > directions (I guess it just depends when you're looking out the > window - some have been going south too - go figure!) I thought > they would have started petering out by now - I'm going to miss > them when they do. They like stopping off to feed in our Banksias > (spinifolia, I think), so it would be nice to plant some more. > > While we're on flocks - this morning we saw flocks of 100 or so > Feral Pigeons flying over Bullaburra and Lawson - they didn't seem > to have any particular goal, just swooping around up high in fairly > tight formations. Any idea what that's about? > cheers, > Arwen > ......................................... Arwen Blackwood Ximenes > Lawson, Blue Mountains, NSWarwenbx AT hotmail.com > _________________________________________________________________ > Search for local singles online AT Lavalife - Click here > http://a.ninemsn.com.au/b.aspx?URL=http%3A%2F%2Flavalife9%2Eninemsn% > 2Ecom%2Eau%2Fclickthru%2Fclickthru%2Eact%3Fid%3Dninemsn%26context% > 3Dan99%26locale%3Den%5FAU%26a% > 3D30290&_t=764581033&_r=email_taglines_Search_OCT07&_m=EXT============ > ==================www.birding-aus.org > birding-aus.blogspot.com > > To unsubscribe from this mailing list, > send the message: > unsubscribe > (in the body of the message, with no Subject line) > to: birding-aus-request AT vicnet.net.au > ============================== =============================== www.birding-aus.org birding-aus.blogspot.com To unsubscribe from this mailing list, send the message: unsubscribe (in the body of the message, with no Subject line) to: birding-aus-request AT vicnet.net.au ===============================Subject: Amazing birding experiences - honeyeater migration From: "Arwen B. Ximenes" <arwenbx AT hotmail.com> Date: Sun, 11 May 2008 12:56:42 +1000 Carol, this makes more sense to me now because the first flocks of migrating honeyeaters I saw (at Lawson, approx. 15 kms east of Katoomba) were heading west. Then there seemed to be a shift northwards for a while, now they seem to be heading in both directions (I guess it just depends when you're looking out the window - some have been going south too - go figure!) I thought they would have started petering out by now - I'm going to miss them when they do. They like stopping off to feed in our Banksias (spinifolia, I think), so it would be nice to plant some more. While we're on flocks - this morning we saw flocks of 100 or so Feral Pigeons flying over Bullaburra and Lawson - they didn't seem to have any particular goal, just swooping around up high in fairly tight formations. Any idea what that's about? cheers, Arwen ......................................... Arwen Blackwood Ximenes Lawson, Blue Mountains, NSWarwenbx AT hotmail.com _________________________________________________________________ Search for local singles online AT Lavalife - Click here http://a.ninemsn.com.au/b.aspx?URL=http%3A%2F%2Flavalife9%2Eninemsn%2Ecom%2Eau%2Fclickthru%2Fclickthru%2Eact%3Fid%3Dninemsn%26context%3Dan99%26locale%3Den%5FAU%26a%3D30290&_t=764581033&_r=email_taglines_Search_OCT07&_m=EXT==============================www.birding-aus.org birding-aus.blogspot.com To unsubscribe from this mailing list, send the message: unsubscribe (in the body of the message, with no Subject line) to: birding-aus-request AT vicnet.net.au ==============================Subject: Re: Amazing birding experiences - honeyeater migration From: Carol Probets <origma AT lisp.com.au> Date: Sun, 11 May 2008 09:34:57 +1000 In a message to Birding-Aus on 4/5/08, Paul Dodd wrote of the Yellow-faced and White-naped Honeyeater migration on the south coast of Victoria: "This really should be one of those 'must-do' experiences for birders, I think. It is absolutely incredible to see these birds in such numbers - and to see them in such a continuous stream." Indeed it is! This year in Katoomba, NSW, the migration has been happening steadily but numbers have been relatively low. On many days I've had flocks of 50 or so going over my house every few minutes throughout the morning hours, but none of the really phenomenal days that I've had in some years (e.g. autumn 2006 when I estimated up to 7500 birds per hour flying over my house). What is interesting is that many of the honeyeaters seem to be flying west this year, rather than a purely northwards movement. Perhaps an indication that this will be a good inland year here in central-eastern NSW. The growing honeyeater activity in the Capertee Valley at the moment backs this up. Cheers, Carol -- ~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~ Carol Probets Guided birding in the Blue Mountains & Capertee Valley PO Box 330 Katoomba NSW 2780 Web: http://www.bmbirding.com.au ~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~ =============================== www.birding-aus.org birding-aus.blogspot.com To unsubscribe from this mailing list, send the message: unsubscribe (in the body of the message, with no Subject line) to: birding-aus-request AT vicnet.net.au ===============================Subject: Peregrine nest webcam From: "Dave Torr" <davidtorr AT gmail.com> Date: Sun, 11 May 2008 07:37:46 +1000 A friend of mine in England sent me this link - you need to allow for the time difference of course http://195.224.106.202/peregrine/webcam.htm =============================== www.birding-aus.org birding-aus.blogspot.com To unsubscribe from this mailing list, send the message: unsubscribe (in the body of the message, with no Subject line) to: birding-aus-request AT vicnet.net.au ===============================Subject: Re: common birds - quiz [SEC=UNOFFICIAL] From: Mick Roderick <mickhhb AT yahoo.com.au> Date: Sat, 10 May 2008 06:26:37 -0700 (PDT) My turn... Your mentioning of the Tas hinterland must've been for a reason...and that's why I've thrown in Striated Pardalote. 48 spp. in 24 hours in the Alice must've figured in a visit to some kind of wetland...hence I'm chucking in (Eastern) Great Egret and Aussie Pelican (both are outsiders and Silver Gull was just too good to be true but it is hard to leave out as it sounds like you've been to coastal areas in WA, Tas and SA). There also have to be some already suggested species that you've missed (such as Welcome Swallow and Magpie in the NT). And just cos I think you would've seen these, I'm adding Grey Fantail and Black-faced Cuckoo-shrike. So, my stab is: Grey Fantail Black-faced Cuckoo-shrike Striated Pardalote Eastern Great Egret Aussie Pelican Mick R ----- Original Message ---- From: "Harvey.PERKINS AT Dest.gov.au"Subject: Re: Sydney Olympic Park From: "Darryl McKay" <sternaalbifrons AT unwired.com.au> Date: Sat, 10 May 2008 19:19:22 +1000 Most likely Nutmeg Mannikin (Spice Finch). Darryl McKay Bankstown ----- Original Message ----- From: maxb99 AT iinet.net.au To: birding-aus AT vicnet.net.au Sent: Saturday, May 10, 2008 5:40 PM Subject: [Birding-Aus] Sydney Olympic Park Hi Everyone, An afternoon cycle/birdwatch with mum at Sydney Olympic Park this afternoon produced some nice birds and an unusual sighting. The first stop was the Brick pit. There were the usual waterbirds: Chestnut Teal, Australasian Grebe, Eurasian Coot, etc, etc. A short break at a large pond off Wentworth Common had a nice Black Swan, a Royal Spoonbill with some Ibis, Hardhead and some Dusky Moorhen's. Near the entrance to Wentworth Common on the NE side a small flock of brown finches stopped us. They flew into some dry reeds and didn't show themselves for about 2 minutes. When they became brave enough to fight each other on the stems of the reeds I was able to have a good look. I was surprised to see that they weren't Sparrows but more like Mannikins they had quite triangular black beaks and a completely light, brown plumage, almost the same colour as the reeds. I watched them for a while and was convinced that there was no difference in male and female plumage. A mystery, your ideas would be greatly appreciated. >From there we spotted a couple of Goldfinches around the birdhide at the Waterbird Refuge and on the lake the birds included: Black-winged Stilt, Pelican's, Royal Spoonbill's, Red-necked Avocet's, a pair of Black Swan's, Black-fronted Dotterel, Chestnut and Grey Teal and a couple of White-faced Heron's. We then headed back and didn't really see anything until we had just come off the Brickpit walk. A Peregrine Falcon swooped down from a tall beam-tower into some fenced off trees. I could make out the speckled breast and black face mask. So, I nice ending to a beautiful day. Max. Sydney... P.S. The mystery Mannikins looked like juv. Chestnut-breasted Mannikins, but with darker beaks. ------------------------------------------------------------------------------ =============================== www.birding-aus.org birding-aus.blogspot.com To unsubscribe from this mailing list, send the message: unsubscribe (in the body of the message, with no Subject line) to: birding-aus-request AT vicnet.net.au =============================== ==============================www.birding-aus.org birding-aus.blogspot.com To unsubscribe from this mailing list, send the message: unsubscribe (in the body of the message, with no Subject line) to: birding-aus-request AT vicnet.net.au ==============================Subject: Re: common bird quiz From: John Tongue <jspk AT iprimus.com.au> Date: Sat, 10 May 2008 19:02:44 +1000 Hi Carla et al, Willy Wagtail and Sacred Kingfisher not in Tas. Seems to be the Tas possibilities that are stumping most. John Tongue Ulverstone, Tas. On 10/05/2008, at 5:51 PM, Jackett family wrote: > More guesses, > > Willie Wagtail, Yellow-rumped Thornbill, Sacred Kingfisher, Owlet > nightjar, Southern boobook > > Carla Jackett > ==============================www.birding-aus.org > birding-aus.blogspot.com > > To unsubscribe from this mailing list, > send the message: > unsubscribe > (in the body of the message, with no Subject line) > to: birding-aus-request AT vicnet.net.au > ============================== =============================== www.birding-aus.org birding-aus.blogspot.com To unsubscribe from this mailing list, send the message: unsubscribe (in the body of the message, with no Subject line) to: birding-aus-request AT vicnet.net.au ===============================Subject: common bird quiz From: "Jackett family" <whipbird AT bigpond.net.au> Date: Sat, 10 May 2008 17:51:13 +1000 More guesses, Willie Wagtail, Yellow-rumped Thornbill, Sacred Kingfisher, Owlet nightjar, Southern boobook Carla Jackett ==============================www.birding-aus.org birding-aus.blogspot.com To unsubscribe from this mailing list, send the message: unsubscribe (in the body of the message, with no Subject line) to: birding-aus-request AT vicnet.net.au ==============================Subject: Re: spotlighting and bird's eyes From: "Michelle Plant" <michelleplant AT bigpond.com> Date: Sat, 10 May 2008 18:06:32 +1000 I cannot think of the name of the filters, but they must be fairly common these days... to provide some protection for critters when spotlighting... does anyone else know the name of the top of their heads?? ----- Original Message ----- From: "Steve"Subject: Sydney Olympic Park From: "maxb99 AT iinet.net.au" <maxb99@iinet.net.au> Date: Sat, 10 May 2008 15:40:49 +0800 =============================== www.birding-aus.org birding-aus.blogspot.com To unsubscribe from this mailing list, send the message: unsubscribe (in the body of the message, with no Subject line) to: birding-aus-request AT vicnet.net.au ===============================Subject: High levels of contamination in urban Peregrines From: L&L Knight <l.knight AT optusnet.com.au> Date: Sat, 10 May 2008 17:29:36 +1000 http://www.latimes.com/news/science/environment/la-me-birds9-2008may09,0,2326133.story Peregrine falcons in California's urban areas are contaminated with toxic chemicals The birds were endangered by DDT in the '70s. Now, scientists have found that falcons in cities including Los Angeles contain record-high levels of flame retardant. < snip > =============================== www.birding-aus.org birding-aus.blogspot.com To unsubscribe from this mailing list, send the message: unsubscribe (in the body of the message, with no Subject line) to: birding-aus-request AT vicnet.net.au ===============================Subject: RE: spotlighting and bird's eyes From: "Steve" <smurray AT uqconnect.net> Date: Sat, 10 May 2008 17:04:20 +1000 Ashwin....This subject was discussed last year on birding-aus. Someone (I can't remember who) reproduced a discussion of this very question by Professor Jack Pettigrew from University of Queensland who has studied the physiology of bird vision. If I recall, the bottom line was that birds are able to withstand the effects of bright light much better than we are, but I suggest you check the archives and read his enlightened comments for yourself. Steve Murray -----Original Message----- From: birding-aus-bounces AT vicnet.net.au [mailto:birding-aus-bounces AT vicnet.net.au] On Behalf Of Ashwin Rudder Sent: Saturday, 10 May 2008 11:38 AM To: birding-aus AT vicnet.net.au Subject: [Birding-Aus] spotlighting and bird's eyes g'day i was spotlighting some White-throated Nightjars last October, when i began to wonder what the bright beams of spotlights actually do to nightbirds, and just bird in genral, eyes. when humans look into a bright light for too long, they suffer permanent or temporary eyesight damage. I was wondering if this is the same for night birds? also, is there a difference in damage between different bulbs, eg LED, Xenon, Krypton, etc? Which is easier for spotlighting and identification, as well? Thanks in advance, Ashwin =============================== www.birding-aus.org birding-aus.blogspot.com To unsubscribe from this mailing list, send the message: unsubscribe (in the body of the message, with no Subject line) to: birding-aus-request AT vicnet.net.au =============================== =============================== www.birding-aus.org birding-aus.blogspot.com To unsubscribe from this mailing list, send the message: unsubscribe (in the body of the message, with no Subject line) to: birding-aus-request AT vicnet.net.au ===============================Subject: spotlighting and bird's eyes From: "Ashwin Rudder" <noisypitta AT gmail.com> Date: Sat, 10 May 2008 11:38:23 +1000 g'day i was spotlighting some White-throated Nightjars last October, when i began to wonder what the bright beams of spotlights actually do to nightbirds, and just bird in genral, eyes. when humans look into a bright light for too long, they suffer permanent or temporary eyesight damage. I was wondering if this is the same for night birds? also, is there a difference in damage between different bulbs, eg LED, Xenon, Krypton, etc? Which is easier for spotlighting and identification, as well? Thanks in advance, Ashwin =============================== www.birding-aus.org birding-aus.blogspot.com To unsubscribe from this mailing list, send the message: unsubscribe (in the body of the message, with no Subject line) to: birding-aus-request AT vicnet.net.au ===============================Subject: RE: Re: Local extinction! From: Peter Ewin <sittella AT hotmail.com> Date: Sat, 10 May 2008 14:23:39 +1000 I should have been away but have been at a workshop discussing climate changes and its potential impacts on biodiversity - scary stuff. I have been tempted to respond in the past to the various discussions of birding databases and the various Atlas databases but have usually just remained an interested spectator. However, the discussion below by Martin raises some interesting points and so I thought I should contribute this time. The main advantage I believe of contributing records to a state government database is that is the where decisions on conservation issues are usually being made. As Martin says, NSW has the Atlas of NSW Wildlife (based pretty well on the Victorian model) and this has been going for nearly 20 years. This is the database I contribute my records to (mainly because I have been involved in the development and distribution of the database in the past). However, since I now live in Victoria (but work in NSW) I have got a Victorian Atlas book for the odd interesting record I make in Vic (yes Martin I will send them in eventually). I usually only contribute records of threatened species to the database, but I will also usually record a list of species seen in the same vicinity (including ferals) to get an idea of the common species (I am certain I have commented previously that unless you record common things you never have an idea of what is declining or incresing). Exceptions to this are if I am visiting a new reserve (or having an extended stay in a previously visited one) or doing sytematic survey as part of my work (then everything gets recorded). We try to get most surveys that DECC does incorporated this way, but it doesn't always work out that way (everyone thinks that their own database is the best for their owjn project). It also includes lots of published records, records from consultants (who should be supplying the data as part of their Scientific Licence) and from the public. It also has 'licensed' from other bodies (Australian Museum, CSIRO) though these are only made available to staff using the database (the web-based application does not include these records). There have been licences in the past with SA (to be updated soon) and I think some discussion has been had with Victoria so we have records in these states for areas adjoining NSW, and we have an agreement in the past with Birds Australia (though this has not been updated and is a major limitation in the dataset we have). Going back to my original point, however, is that the Atlas is being used to drive decisions by DECC (and others) for biodiversity in NSW. Examples include: It is the main dataset used by consultants during the development process. There is no legal requirement for them to consult any records, but the Atlas is the minimum that we would require. Many consult other places (Museum, BA, etc.) but this list is ever-grwoing and there is only so much time and money that consultants have to spend on searches. For processes such as the determing the distribution of threatened species for native vegetation management (and biobanking) it is the main dataset (along with some specialists knowledge) utilised (including predicting areas of potential habitat). Other decisions on targeted threatened species management (such as areas for fox control, reserve design, forestry harvesting) are also based on Atlas records. The Atlas of NSW Wildlife is a crucial dataset that would mean that DECC would not be able to do many of its required functions if the dataset was not available. I understand that many of the other databases serve a function (personal lists, twitching locations, etc.) but I would encourage people in NSW (and Victoria) to contribute their records to the state database. The site listed below should have a link to a spreadsheet that allows submission of records electronically (the preferred format) but excel or database format data can be accepted as long as it has the essential information (what, where, when and who as a minimum). I know many people contribute to the BA Atlas and I hope our head office people are close to resolving the issue of data exchange so that double handling is not required, but if you submit data electronically (or have digital records for NSW) send the Wildlife Data Unit an e-mail and hopefully they can get your data into the Atlas. Cheers, Peter> To: pshute AT nuw.org.au> Subject: RE: [Birding-Aus] Re: Local extinction!> From: Martin.O'Brien AT dse.vic.gov.au> Date: Wed, 7 May 2008 16:02:28 +1000> CC: birding-aus AT vicnet.net.au> > Hi Peter, good questions!> > This is my understanding of the various fauna databases available to > naturalists to submit their data. As far as I'm aware only certain > eastern Australian states have any form of fauna atlas. Victoria has had > its atlas (Atlas of Victorian Wildlife) for about 30 years now.> > As you can see there are a number of bird related databases but only a few > of these record all details associated with sightings of fauna and have > associated mapping systems and analysis tools so wildlife can be managed > by the relevant land manager agency.> > As a Victorian I send most of my observations to the Atlas of Victorian > Wildlife (AVW), but while travelling anywhere interstate I send data to > the Birds Australia Atlas. In addition there are sometimes specific > projects that use BA atlas forms (eg. the Victorian Lurg Woodland Bird > Survey) that I sue for those projects. My atlas for most sightings is the > AVW as one almost always sees other fauna when out birding (mammals, > frogs, reptiles, crays etc). I recommend the AVW for those who do most of > their birding in Victoria (especially if you record other fauna as well) > but understand some people are happy with using the Birds Australia > BirdData method of lodging their sightings directly.> > Link: Birds Australia BirdData - > http://www.birdsaustralia.com.au/our-projects/atlas-birdata.html> > It's worth being aware that Birds Australia has a data exchange agreement > with the Atlas of Victorian Wildlife which means that each database swaps > its avifauna information with the other. So reporting to the AVW means > your sightings eventually get into the BA database.> > I've generated the following information showing the current state > government fauna databases and, where these do not exist, the relevant > birding group sightings web pages.> > a. Australia> Birds Australia Atlas - Australia wide coverage, birds only> Link: http://www.birdsaustralia.com.au/resources/databases.html> > b. Queensland> Environment Protection Agency (Qld) - Coastal Bird Atlas, Queensland > coastal birds only> Link: > http://www.epa.qld.gov.au/wetlandinfo/site/MappingFandD/ContributeData/CoastalBirdAtlas.html> > c. New South Wales> NSW National Parks & Wildlife Department - NSW only, all fauna> Link: > http://wildlifeatlas.nationalparks.nsw.gov.au/wildlifeatlas/watlas.jsp> > d. Victoria> Department of Sustainability & Environment - Victoria only, all fauna> Link: [in preparation] (email: biodiversity.info AT dse.vic.gov.au)> Note: currently available on CD-ROM and known as Victorian Fauna Display > (see: http://www.viridans.com/FISVFD/VFD1.HTM)> > e. ACT> Canberra Ornithologists Group - ACT only, birds only> Link: http://canberrabirds.org.au/Index.htm> > f. Tasmania (books only)> University of Tasmania, Fauna of Tasmania - various animal groups> Link: http://www.zoo.utas.edu.au/FOT2/BookletFOT.htm> > g. South Australia> Birds South Australia, SA only, birds only> Link: http://www.birdssa.asn.au/> > h. Western Australia> Birds Australia WA - WA only, birds only> Link: http://www.birdswa.com.au/sightings.htm> > i. Northern Territory> Birds Australia Atlas 2 - NT, birds only> Link: http://birds.rhyme.com.au/> > Hope this helps ... and of course interested to hear what I may have > missed !> > cheers, Martin> > Martin O'Brien> Wildlife Biologist - Threatened Species & Communities Section> Department of Sustainability and Environment> 2/8 Nicholson St.,> East Melbourne 3002> VICTORIA> > > > > > > > Notice:> This email and any attachments may contain information that is personal, > confidential, legally privileged and/or copyright.No part of it should be reproduced, > adapted or communicated without the prior written consent of the copyright owner. > > It is the responsibility of the recipient to check for and remove viruses.> If you have received this email in error, please notify the sender by return email, delete > it from your system and destroy any copies. You are not authorised to use, communicate or rely on the information > contained in this email.> > Please consider the environment before printing this email.> ===============================> www.birding-aus.org> birding-aus.blogspot.com> > To unsubscribe from this mailing list, > send the message:> unsubscribe > (in the body of the message, with no Subject line)> to: birding-aus-request AT vicnet.net.au> =============================== _________________________________________________________________ Be part of history. Take part in Australia's first e-mail archive with Email Australia. http://emailaustralia.ninemsn.com.au==============================www.birding-aus.org birding-aus.blogspot.com To unsubscribe from this mailing list, send the message: unsubscribe (in the body of the message, with no Subject line) to: birding-aus-request AT vicnet.net.au ==============================Subject: Regent Honeyeaters. From: "Bruce Cox" <sitella AT optusnet.com.au> Date: Sat, 10 May 2008 14:14:45 +1000 Hello Birding-aussers, Yesterday three friends and I visited the Capertee Valley in near perfect weather for a day of recreational birding, we had also decided to look for the Regent Honeyeaters reported just south of Port Macquarie Rd. We failed to see them at that location but did find about 6 birds (some by call) in the bed of the Capertee River about 300 metres north of the bridge on Glenowlan Rd. The birds seen were hawking for insects above a pool in the river. We heard Regents at the Port Macquarie Rd. location calling from woodland to the east of the Glen Helen to Rylstone Rd. so they are still around that location, we just couldn't see them. Bruce. Bruce Cox on Sydney's Northern Beaches. ==============================www.birding-aus.org birding-aus.blogspot.com To unsubscribe from this mailing list, send the message: unsubscribe (in the body of the message, with no Subject line) to: birding-aus-request AT vicnet.net.au ==============================Subject: RE: Birdinfo From: "Tony Russell" <pratincole AT esc.net.au> Date: Sat, 10 May 2008 09:49:32 +0930 Thanks for this Keith. Good to see that Simon has fixed the problem regarding preservation of one's own entries. This had been a problem for me in the past. Maybe I'll get Birdinfo now. Tony. -----Original Message----- From: birding-aus-bounces AT vicnet.net.au [mailto:birding-aus-bounces AT vicnet.net.au] On Behalf Of Kingfisher Park Birdwatchers Lodge Sent: Friday, May 09, 2008 6:21 PM To: Birding Aus Subject: [Birding-Aus] Birdinfo Hi Folks, For those interested in Birdinfo Simon sent me the following information Version 5.2a of BirdInfo - Australia is now available at a cost of $50 for new customers, or, as an update for existing customer for $10. Please note that BirdInfo has reverted to an Australia-only application. The Australian list reflects Christidis, L & Boles, WE, 2008, Systematics and Taxonomy of Australian Birds. For the foreseeable future, only updates that apply to the Australian list will be available. A new feature is that you are able to add in your own species names that are preserved with future updates. BirdInfo does still contain all the world bird species from the Clements 2000 checklist, and any previously entered data are preserved. You can still fully operate with the old world list, but there are no foreseeable plans to update the world list. Simons' email is birds at netspeed.com.au. Cheers, Keith. Keith and Lindsay Fisher RN 6 Mt. Kooyong Road Julatten QLD 4871 Ph : (07) 4094 1263 Fax : (07) 4094 1466 Web Site: www.birdwatchers.com.au =============================== www.birding-aus.org birding-aus.blogspot.com To unsubscribe from this mailing list, send the message: unsubscribe (in the body of the message, with no Subject line) to: birding-aus-request AT vicnet.net.au =============================== =============================== www.birding-aus.org birding-aus.blogspot.com To unsubscribe from this mailing list, send the message: unsubscribe (in the body of the message, with no Subject line) to: birding-aus-request AT vicnet.net.au ===============================Subject: Re: common birds - quiz [SEC=UNOFFICIAL] From: "Elizabeth Shaw" <surefoot AT waterfront.net.au> Date: Fri, 9 May 2008 23:44:32 +1000 My guesses are: Black Duck Coot Little Pied Cormorant White-faced Heron Striated Pardalote Elizabeth Shaw Phillip Island Victoria ----- Original Message ----- From:Subject: Australia: Land of Parrots Re-screening From: Martin <martismo AT gmail.com> Date: Fri, 9 May 2008 23:01:04 +1000 Just received this nice note from Aunty: Dear Mr _______ I thought I would take this opportunity to send you through a quick update. As a result of ABC viewer feedback, you may be pleased to know the ABC has been able to identify a timeslot in QLD to re-broadcast* Australia: Land of Parrots* on Saturday 17 May at 4pm. This broadcast will be available on both analog and Standard Definition digital transmissions on ABC1, but due to technical limitations it will not be available on the High Definition digital service. I hope you enjoy this re-screening. In addition, with so much positive feedback from ABC viewers, you might be interested to know the DVD will be available to purchase from ABC Shops and ABC Centres from approximately June 2008. Kind regards Vanessa Hope all the Queenslanders out there will take time to watch. Martin =============================== www.birding-aus.org birding-aus.blogspot.com To unsubscribe from this mailing list, send the message: unsubscribe (in the body of the message, with no Subject line) to: birding-aus-request AT vicnet.net.au ===============================Subject: Re: Toads From: Andrew Taylor <andrewt AT cse.unsw.edu.au> Date: Fri, 9 May 2008 22:14:25 +1000 On Fri, May 09, 2008 at 01:54:28PM +1000, Graham Turner wrote: > My understanding is that they are already in WA. Not yet - expect a burst of newspaper stories when the toad front reaches WA. Along the Victoria Highway the front was said to be 25km from the WA border at the end of March. So next wet should see toads in WA. They'll like Kununurra. Andrew =============================== www.birding-aus.org birding-aus.blogspot.com To unsubscribe from this mailing list, send the message: unsubscribe (in the body of the message, with no Subject line) to: birding-aus-request AT vicnet.net.au ===============================Subject: Re: Keys to Cheetham Salt-works, Adelaide SA From: "Dean Cutten" <cut10dr AT activ8.net.au> Date: Fri, 9 May 2008 06:51:33 -0500 Aus Birders, Back on April 14 I went to Cheetham office around noon to pick up a key and was told there was no gate key available as they were all out. However, after checking in the mail box the assistant found one key. At the time I thought there must be a few people out at the salt ponds. This time I came up from Victor Harbor (1.5 hr drive) on other business but sometimes I have come up especially to visit the salt ponds and if there was no key available I would not have been impressed. I thought the key number was registered with the card holder when it was picked up and so the card holder could be contacted to return it if it had not been returned. So if birders have been hanging on to the keys then I support the new procedure to make birders return the gate keys. Dean Cutten Victor Harbor, SA Australia ----- Original Message ----- From: "Philip Griffin"Subject: RFI: Mainland locations for Sooty Oystercatchers in North Queensland. Update. From: "Robert Inglis" <inglisrc AT tpg.com.au> Date: Fri, 9 May 2008 20:58:18 +1000 Re my RFI for Sooty Oystercatcher locations in North Queensland: As Indicated in the Subject Line of my original posting about this topic I am after information about locations on the mainland. Locations on islands are of no interest for me. I am sorry if there has been some confusion about my request for information. Bob Inglis Sandstone Point Qld =============================== www.birding-aus.org birding-aus.blogspot.com To unsubscribe from this mailing list, send the message: unsubscribe (in the body of the message, with no Subject line) to: birding-aus-request AT vicnet.net.au ===============================Subject: Re: Common bird quiz From: Frank O'Connor <foconnor AT iinet.net.au> Date: Fri, 09 May 2008 18:42:37 +0800 Might as well have a go. Welcome Swallow (surely?) Wedge-tailed Eagle (good chance but may have missed in Tas?) Brown Falcon (may have missed in SW WA - but he should have seen it at Cheyne Beach) Australian Magpie (may have missed in NT?) Yellow-rumped Thornbill (my long shot) Left out in order Tree Martin, Brown Goshawk, Collared Sparrowhawk, Black-faced Cuckoo-shrike, Grey Shrike-thrush, Australasian Pipit, Black-fronted Dotterel, Common Greenshank _________________________________________________________________ Frank O'Connor Birding WA http://birdingwa.iinet.net.au Phone : (08) 9386 5694 Email : foconnor AT iinet.net.au =============================== www.birding-aus.org birding-aus.blogspot.com To unsubscribe from this mailing list, send the message: unsubscribe (in the body of the message, with no Subject line) to: birding-aus-request AT vicnet.net.au ===============================Subject: RFI: Mainland locations for Sooty Oystercatchers in North Queensland. From: "Robert Inglis" <inglisrc AT tpg.com.au> Date: Fri, 9 May 2008 19:55:17 +1000 I have a great desire, verging on compulsion, to take some photos of Sooty Oystercatchers in North Queensland. The background to this is my curiosity about the sub-species status (for want of a better description) of Sooty Oystercatchers around Australia. The current wisdom suggests (perhaps that should be "claims") that the geographical 'division' between the two races in Queensland occurs around the Tropic of Capricorn. I have some doubts based on my personal photographic evidence, so...........I would like to photograph some Sooty Oycs north of Rockhampton (Emu Park to be more precise). Actually, I would like to get some photos of Sootys from near Mackay or, preferably, Bowen. What I am asking is: Are there any reasonably accessible locations between Rockhampton and Bowen where Sooty Oystercatchers are presently in residence? If so, would someone please pass the details of those locations on to me at inglisrc AT tpg.com.au When I say "reasonably accessible" I mean places which don't require serious 4 wheel driving or beach driving. Cheers Bob Inglis Sandstone Point Qld =============================== www.birding-aus.org birding-aus.blogspot.com To unsubscribe from this mailing list, send the message: unsubscribe (in the body of the message, with no Subject line) to: birding-aus-request AT vicnet.net.au ===============================Subject: Birdinfo From: Kingfisher Park Birdwatchers Lodge <sootyowl AT bigpond.com> Date: Fri, 09 May 2008 18:50:33 +1000 Hi Folks, For those interested in Birdinfo Simon sent me the following information Version 5.2a of BirdInfo - Australia is now available at a cost of $50 for new customers, or, as an update for existing customer for $10. Please note that BirdInfo has reverted to an Australia-only application. The Australian list reflects Christidis, L & Boles, WE, 2008, Systematics and Taxonomy of Australian Birds. For the foreseeable future, only updates that apply to the Australian list will be available. A new feature is that you are able to add in your own species names that are preserved with future updates. BirdInfo does still contain all the world bird species from the Clements 2000 checklist, and any previously entered data are preserved. You can still fully operate with the old world list, but there are no foreseeable plans to update the world list. Simons' email is birds at netspeed.com.au. Cheers, Keith. Keith and Lindsay Fisher RN 6 Mt. Kooyong Road Julatten QLD 4871 Ph : (07) 4094 1263 Fax : (07) 4094 1466 Web Site: www.birdwatchers.com.au =============================== www.birding-aus.org birding-aus.blogspot.com To unsubscribe from this mailing list, send the message: unsubscribe (in the body of the message, with no Subject line) to: birding-aus-request AT vicnet.net.au ===============================Subject: Re: Collared Sparrowhawk or Brown Goshawk? From: "Greg & Val Clancy" <gclancy AT tpg.com.au> Date: Fri, 9 May 2008 19:37:51 +1000 Belinda, I would say Collared Sparrowhawk (adult) based on the length of the longest toe and the square tail. Was it relatively small? Greg Clancy ----- Original Message ----- From: "gary wright" |