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I wonder if this _expression_ "I used to see, regularly" relates to a
period extending over several years or just within the last year. For species
that have regular variations, absences for a period are quite normal. The GBS
Report (page 52) reveals for this species that:
"It is interesting that the results for this species confirm the
independently known very irregular pattern of abundance. Even though overall it
is a fairly common species of raptor, its occurrence is
inconsistent. ....... This species is more of a specialist hunter than
other local raptors, with a strong preference for rodents. Rodent numbers are
also very variable, not just locally but in surrounding parts of NSW and this
bird probably responds to this. As with other raptors, its seasonal pattern
shows an increase during the breeding season. This raptor is unusual however in
that it is a winter breeder. Numbers are at a peak in July then drop smoothly
down to a minimum by February, with an immediate rise from March to June leading
to the July peak."
So Margaret on face value, your comments are consistent with that
knowledge.
Philip
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