Hello Philip
There were two immature birds (bearing a residual brown shading on the upper
breast) in the first group of six birds that appeared together during the
second half of September. I have sighted one or two such immature birds
since then but I suspect they originated from within the first group. Most
of the visitors are definitely adult birds and I have not sighted at any
time a more heavily coloured juvenile.
The reason these birds are here is obviously a response to what can only be
described as a mouse plague. These little critters have been here in huge
numbers since early September and I expect that the Kites have simply
followed them in as the plague spread into our region from the western
districts. I should add that our couple of resident kestrels have also been
joined by a few others and these are all enjoying the feast.
I am not familiar with the precise breeding habits of BSK and I am not sure
how long it takes a juvenile to progress through immaturity to full adult
plumage. If this process were to take a few months rather than longer then
your reference to a pattern of winter breeding could well be correct.
And I have noted your comments about something for Canberra Bird Notes and
will come back to that idea later. Meantime I am keeping track of things.
Cheers
John
-----Original Message-----
From: Philip Veerman
Sent: Wednesday, 2 November 2011 2:57 PM
To: 'John Bissett'; 'Elizabeth Compston'
Cc:
Subject: Black-shouldered Kites
My understanding is that these are usually winter breeders, so
ordinarily they would have finished breeding by now. Which leads to a
question as to whether this is a collection of young birds. However I
don't recall from the photo or any comments, that any of the birds are
juveniles (juveniles are more brown, rather than clean white, grey &
black). But I have not been out there. A gathering like this is far from
ordinary (they are not usually that social) and I would be surprised if
they are breeding in a group like that. Would be nice to know how this
group progresses and I would recommend if you have time writing it up
for Canberra Bird Notes.
Philip
-----Original Message-----From: John Bissett
Sent: Wednesday, 2 November 2011 8:05
AM To: 'Elizabeth Compston'
Cc: Subject: RE: [canberrabirds]
Black Shouldered Kites
Thanks Elizabeth
There is as yet no sign of any breeding activity among the large group
of BSK's that are ever present here at the moment. I suspect that for
the time being at least the pleasure of gorging themselves on bountiful
mice has taken their minds off other things.
I will nonetheless be watching for any change.
Cheers
John
-----Original Message-----
From: Elizabeth Compston
Sent: Tuesday, 1 November 2011 8:43 PM
To: John Bissett
Subject: Black Shouldered Kites
Some of those black shouldered kites should have nests. Have you tried
to find a nest? It is fun to watch birds on a nest, going to and fro,
firstly perhaps, Dad feeding Mum, then feeding the chicks. I have never
found a bshk's nest but plan to start looking at Callum Brae where there
is a pair of the birds. I have read that their nests are high in trees,
so may not be easy to see. Generally the bird leads you to a nest
Elizabeth=
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