The final Gooroo South woodland survey for the year was done by Prue and myself this morning in very pleasant conditions – partly cloudy, mild and with little wind. The reserve was still damp after the recent heavy rain, with lush plant
growth and water in creeks and dams. A total of 50 species were recorded, with 42 of these during point counts, compared to 59 and 40 for December 2022.
Interesting records during 10 minute counts included a Dollarbird heard from site 5, a species for which we have remarkably few records during our surveys, a
Golden-headed Cisticola calling near site 1, and two noisy and rather uncoordinated young
Brown Goshawks at site 4. Noisy Friarbirds were in good numbers, other summer migrants recorded were
White-throated and Western Gerygones, Leaden Flycatcher,
Rufous Whistler, White-winged Triller, Dusky Wood Swallow and Shining Bronze-Cuckoo. The decline in cuckoo records since spring was quite noticeable. Up to 4
White-eared Honeyeaters were seen, also Yellow-faced and Brown -headed Honeyeaters. Incidental records included
Nankeen Kestrel, 2 Black-shouldered Kites and Mistletoebird.
Steve Holliday
