canberrabirds

Breeding Blues

To: 'Jack Hunter' <>
Subject: Breeding Blues
From: "Philip Veerman via Canberrabirds " <>
Date: Thu, 29 Oct 2026 23:54:43 +0000

Hello Jack,

 

The existence of the species in Canberra is relatively new. Wilson’s book (up to 1999) mentions the only record as in 1943. And not included in The GBS Report either, so no GBS. records up till 2002. Records since then are not compiled. So yes fair statement that, breeding still considered quite uncommon for this species in Canberra. So your records should go on the formal record.

 

Philip

 

From: Canberrabirds On Behalf Of Jack Hunter via Canberrabirds
Sent: Friday, 30 October, 2026 8:22 AM
To: Canberra Birds <>
Subject: [Canberrabirds] Breeding Blues

 

G’day folks, 

A very fun and interesting one from Bruce this morning! Cooperative family of five Blue-Faced Honeyeaters getting a jump on the day. We had two adults on a grocery run, returning to feed two recent fledglings before setting off again. These adults could be heard distantly squabbling with Noisy Miners during this time. Meanwhile, a still green-faced juvenile remained behind on babysitting duties. The presence of these feldgies obviously implies a nearby nest which likely explains the swooping behaviour recently observed in this area. 

While I was there, a handful of Noisy Miners sprung from a nearby tree and began mobbing the fledglings. The Juvenile sounded the alarm and proceeded to defend the fledgies with surprising success. The adult Blues soon returned and restored order, forcing the Noisies back to their original location, practically a stone’s throw away. I left very soon after this to avoid drawing more attention. I have a feeling my presence may have instigated the Noisies, as they buzzed me before hitting the Blues.

Forgive my ignorance, but was breeding still considered quite uncommon for this species in Canberra? I managed some pictures of the fledglings, which I’m happy to share if anyone is interested.

Have a good one!

Jack


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