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There is a lot happening down at the Ross River (Townsville) lately. It's
that fabulous time of year when the winter migrants are still around but the
summer migrants are beginning to show up. As well, birds not often seen are
passing through on passage.
A Latham's Snipe was seen on the
7/9 and yesterday (16/9) On the 7th I flushed one out of the reeds at the edge
of the (very deep) Ross River - well away from any muddy margins. On the
16th it was in a small patch of swampy grass at the Bush Garden that is also
attracting Black-fronted Dotterel & Zebra Finch to drink & bath.
For the last three days I've seen Black-faced Monarchs & Rufous
Fantails - only passing through with small numbers of Rufous Whistler (females),
Leaden Flycatcher & Grey Fantail still around from the winter. Willie
Wagtails all gone though.
Summer migrants to arrive have been
Common Koel (calling since 1/9) and Pied Imperial Pigeon (possibly collecting
sticks for nesting - 14/9)
Tim Dickson
Townsville
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