The summer survey in the southern half of Goorooyarroo was done by
myself, Prue Buckley, and David and Kathy Cook this
morning, in perfect weather.
The reserve had greened up since the rain over the last 5 or 6 weeks and there were a lot of native and introduced forbs in flower in some areas. Small
birds were perhaps less in evidence than usual, and several regulars (such as Brown Thornbill, Speckled Warbler, Dusky Woodswallow and Wedge-tailed Eagle) were missing. 49 species were recorded for the morning
with 44 of these during 10 minute counts.
Interesting records included
at least one Stubble Quail calling occasionally near site
1, Varied Sittella,
numerous Superb Parrots including a couple of pairs that appeared to be squabbling over a hollow,
and rather more Leaden Flycatchers than usual.
In contrast to the spring survey only one cuckoo was recorded, a Shining Bronze-Cuckoo.
Breeding records included
Crested Pigeons with a nest at site
3, and
Choughs with dependent young.
Several interesting butterflies were seen, notably Yellow Ochre, and Stencilled and Amethyst Hairstreaks.
Steve
