Yesterday I birded my way along Yass River Road doing the ten COG Area
of Interest grids from the junction between the Yass River Road and the
Highway at one end and Gundaroo at the other. This odd behaviour
attracted two enquiries about whether I needed help. Nice, in a country
sort of way. With the second person, who lives on a block, we discussed
the tree planting they were going to do, the birds they were seeing and
the birds they hoped to attract. An enjoyable discussion. I recorded an
average of about 20 species per grid and there was nothing unusual in
the bird world, save for more Nankeen Kestrels and Brown Falcons than
usual, as well as big flocks of Sulphur-crested Cockatoos (170) and
Galahs (118). Best spot was probably the junction between Berrebangalo
Creek Road and the Yass River Road.
The highlight of the trip was the enormous amount of work going into
willow removal along sections of the Yass River. This River has had a
terrible hammering over the past 150 years. Parts of it, just north of
Gundaroo, have only grassy banks left, fully accessible to stock, so
there it is basically an open drain. Parts a bit further downsteam have
only willows as riparian vegetation. Finally, the last bit of the Yass
River has been inundated (when there is no drought) by Burrinjuck Dam.
The bits along the Yass River Road where the willows are being removed
still have the odd mature native tree. It looks raw and naked but here's
hoping that restoration efforts result in some high biodiversity value
riparian vegetation. I am not sure about the condition of the river
upstream from Gundaroo or downstream from the Highway.
It was also good to see the plantings and environmental care being taken
at the Hall Common. There are cattle on it but the cover is being
maintained in good condition and there were a lot of native grasses and
other native plants. Over the years the timber has obviously been
removed for firewood but the latest falls appear to be being left in
situ, which is good. On the sign they had a picture of a Superb Parrot,
so not sure if they have been recorded in the Common. Rewarded myself
with a Cappucino and a brownie at the Cork Street cafe, which also has
first class pizzas if you are ever birding out that way.
I have two queries:
If anyone is aware of a way to reach the Mundoonen Reserve other than
via the Hume Highway, I would appreciate the advice.
Secondly, in Victoria most streams have public access along the banks.
Is this the case in NSW and the ACT?
Con
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