Hello all,
The Painted Finch continue to be present at the site north of
Jerilderie, however circumstances have changed since people last posted
comments.
I visited the site on Wednesday. The birds are still present at the site
and relatively easy to get on to. They are keeping close together,
foraging most of the time. As for the nest, it has been destroyed, not
sure by what, but certainly the characteristic spout has been parted and
the rear of the nest cavity is easily visible. No eggs or chicks remain.
One might imagine that a predator has finally decided to take an easy
meal, but whether it be a bird or reptile or otherwise it left no clues.
While it is great to see these birds about and being able to share the
opportunity with others, it has been an interesting exercise in some
regards. I was amazed, dumfounded and disappointed to find out that a
group of birdwatchers had set up camp within 30 metres of the nest, camp
fire and all. After all, this was clearly the best spot to set up camp.
Then there has been the curious who have taken opportunity when both
birds were away from the nest to go up to it to inspect the contents
(perhaps it was a fox which visited the nest, aided by the scent of
curious humans?). Mind you were it not for these people we may not have
learnt that the eggs had hatched and at least two chicks lived a short
time.
It will be interesting to see what the birds do now - try again, hang
around or head off.
Regards,
David
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www.birding-aus.org
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