I now think the fish was most
likely an Oriental Weatherloach, introduced rubbish, not a native after all!
From: Steve Holliday
[
Sent: Wednesday, 8 October 2008 3:27 PM
To:
Subject: [canberrabirds] Kellys Swamp -watch out for snakes etc
Popped into Kellys after lunch today, Intermediate Egret
reported yesterday was still present. It looks close to being in full breeding
plumage with well-developed plumes on its back, and not so well developed ones
on its breast. It caught and ate a rather interesting looking fish while I was
watching, a long rather thin fish, dark on top and pale underneath, not as long
or thin as an eel. Best guess I could come up with is Freshwater Catfish,
anyone know if this is likely? Any other suggestions? Also saw a Little Eagle
(light morph) and one Royal Spoonbill.
There was a large Brown Snake sunning itself on the front
step of Bittern Hide, I think we only saw each other at the last second as the
snake seemed to panic and disappeared into the hide. Marnix wandered by shortly
after but declined to go in for a look. As did I.
cheers
Steve
