Naas Sites Autumn Woodland Survey

["Julie Hotchin via Canberrabirds " <>]

Julie McGuiness and I conducted the autumn survey on this rural leasehold south of Tharwa on 30 March. The morning was overcast initially and fog over the ranges did not clear until mid-morning. The site was quite green although both dams had little water. As the morning progressed bird activity was quite good – surprisingly so at sub-site 2, which is usually very quiet.

The highlight was seeing at least seven Jacky Winters across four locations: a group of four (three adults and an immature bird) were very active at sub-site 4 as were another three adult birds along the driveway. Two pairs were also seen at sub-sites 2 and 6, although as they may have been part of the two groups (timing and proximity), we didn’t include them in the total number recorded. One pair of Jacky Winters was part of a mixed flock with Scarlet Robins, Willie Wagtails, Grey Fantails and Yellow-rumped Thornbills. Interestingly, this is the second survey in a row that we’ve seen a young Jacky Winter here, each time at sub-site 4.

A few White-eared, White-plumed and Yellow-faced Honeyeaters were present at one subsite, and several more Yellow-faced Honeyeaters flew through. Spring migrants still present included Dusky Woodswallows, Rufous Whistler, White-throated Gerygone and numerous Grey Fantails. Parrots included Crimson and Eastern Rosella, and Galah and Red-rumped Parrot (in large numbers).  Scarlet Robins were observed at two subsites. Fair numbers of Striated Pardalote, Weebill, Willie Wagtail and Yellow-rumped Thornbill were active.

A Pied Butcherbird was heard calling at a distance. The only raptor sighted was a Nankeen Kestrel.

Overall, 43 species were recorded, of which 29 species were in the six sub-sites and 14 species between sub-sites, which is similar to last year (24 and 17 respectively).

Julie Hotchin

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