Another Molonglo Azures Update

["Jack Hunter via Canberrabirds " <>]

G'day folks, 

Perhaps a predictable outcome here... I wrote a while ago regarding two potential breedings pairs of Azure Kingfishers at separate locations of the Molonglo. While I was able to visit these sites less and less, activity continued across my trips. One pair was again seen performing courtship bowing, while the other pair was seen carrying either food or nesting material to a specific (but unobservable) location. Both pairs were also reasonably vocal while under observation.

Unfortunately, one of these pairs was located in an area that (while less well known) experienced an unusual surge of human activity when the weather improved. I stopped seeing or hearing them around this increase, which included trash, speakers, swimming; the works. The area soon after experienced light flooding, which washed away one of their regular perches.

While the second pair (these observed bowing) remained active during this time, they were located in an area where the river soon broke its banks. Sadly, the main habitat in which I had routinely seen them was completely submerged. While I haven't made it back down since, it seems highly unlikely that they were unaffected by this. 

Not comprehensive by any means, but I also haven't seen either pair pop-up on any ebird lists. 

So, not the most cheerful outcome by any measure, but a very interesting experience nonetheless, and maybe a spot to watch in future. 

Have a good one!
Jack

   

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