Callum Brae this morning

[sandra henderson <>]

Wandered around Callum Brae this morning ahead of Sunday's COG outing there. 46 species in total seen, including a number of parrot species either checking out likely hollows, or peering out of chosen spots.

The choughs are well into breeding mode, with at least two groups having active nests now - both were being given plenty of attention by numerous Pied Currawongs - in  each case a bird on the nest and a single "guard" were being kept busy by the currawongs swooping within inches of the nests. A Grey Currawong was also being annoyed by a large group of Pied Currawongs, but I could not see a nest.

There were many dozens of both Welcome Swallows and Tree Martins circling over large parts of the reserve.  A single mixed flock was found, containing Flame and Scarlet Robins, Speckled Warblers, Red-browed Finches, Yellow-rumped Thornbill, Grey Fantails...

If coming to Sunday's outing note that parts of the reserve are very damp - most of the dams are overflowing, so sturdy (hopefully waterproof) shoes are recommended. We'll stick mainly to tracks, but some of them are also very wet in parts.  Meet at main gate on Narrabundah Lane at 9am. There is parking across the road from the entrance.

 

sandra h