Woodland survey - Callum Brae

[sandra henderson <>]

The quarterly survey was carried out in fine, warm conditions this morning. The grass is long, St Johns Wort is everywhere and thousands of Saffron Thistle seedlings are appearing. Dozens of rabbits were seen. Most of the reserve is quite dry, although one site is still under several cms of water.

46 species in total were recorded, with surprisingly few starlings seen. Big numbers of Pied Currawongs seen, especially on the Mugga Lane side, and good numbers of both rosellas. Breeding was recorded for White-winged Choughs, Sulphur-crested Cockatoos, Magpie Larks and Wood Ducks. Two Nankeen Kestrels together in a dead tree suggests they also have a nest, but that was not confirmed. Other species seen included White-winged Triller, Dusky Woodswallow, White-throated Gerygone, Sacred Kingfisher, Australian Hobby and Nankeen Kestrel.

It was unusual that no White-throated Treecreepers, Spotted Pardalotes or Red-rumped Parrots were seen or heard.

 

Sandra Henderson