Probable Brown Cuckoo-Doves in south Canberra

[Anthony Overs via Canberrabirds <>]

Hi birders

In recent discussions with a new COG member, it was revealed that this person had seen a Brown Cuckoo-Dove in their yard in the southwest part of Forrest. Two birds had been seen on several occasions in recent weeks feeding on seeds of various plants. The description of the bird was unmistakably a Brown Cuckoo-Dove, eliminating all other likely suspects. The feeding behaviour described is also typical of the species, as detailed in field guides. Unfortunately, there was no photo taken. 

Kim Farley, my son, Elliott, and I spent a total of five hours in the garden waiting for a glimpse of the bird, with cameras at the ready. Alas, it did not reappear.

To make matters more interesting, a friend of the new member said that they saw a Brown Cuckoo-Dove in their yard, this time in nearby Curtin. Again, the description was accurate.

As far as I am aware, there are no records of the Brown Cuckoo-Dove in the ACT. However, it would be yet another example of a coastal species - particularly wet forest species - that turns up here occasionally (cf. Brown Gerygone, Lewin's Honeyeater, Bell Miner, Scarlet Honeyeater, White-headed Pigeon). 

Please keep an eye out for this species in the inner south suburbs. 

Cheers

Anthony

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