When I moved into my current address just under 5 years ago, the yard
consisted mainly of flower and vegetable beds. There were some proteas and
two grevilleas. Although we are not far from the escarpment at the edge of
the Great Dividing Range, the yard was fairly barren as far as birds were
concerned. This was no doubt helped by the number of cats in the area.
Since then I have planted many natives (and some exotics) which the birds
seem to appreciate. There is a bird bath for bathing and drinking set near
some large shrubs. I do not put out feed! The number of cats decreased to
the stage where I haven't seen a cat around here for the last 12 months or
so.
There has been a recent influx of visiting bowerbirds. The first sighting
was only a few weeks ago when a female Satin Bowerbird paid a visit.
This was followed by almost regular visits from both male and female with
three birds at once this week. The highlight was the appearance of an
immature male Regent Bowerbird during the drenching rain and fog last
Friday.
These birds approach from the east and do not venture past my yard at
present. They spend some time in the garden or bird bath and then head back
towards the east. The property to the west has suitable habitat and I
suppose they will reach there in due course.
Once again, the birds have voted in favour of thickly planted natives and
the control of cats. Hail to BIRD POWER.
Terry Pacey
Toowoomba Qld 4350
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