birding-aus Baillons Crake

[Bette Mitchell <>]

I spent two wonderful hours on Sunday last at the Tootgarook
wetlands(southern Mornington Peninsula, Vic)
>From the birdhide I was privileged to view the private life of a
Baillons Crake. I have seen Baillons Crake many times but not like this!
It was so close I could make out the fine feathering on it's front and I
watched in wonderment as it picked its way over the water ribbons
feeding on juicy aquatic worm like critters.I noted its long toes and
beautiful red eyes and green bill as he often turned his head skyward
into the sun.It's brown back was delicately etched with fine white
lines.After feeding for an hour or so it stood motionless on the water
ribbon for a long time digesting the meal.
Latham Snipe were also around but were outshone by the antics of the
Baillons.
Isn't it wonderful to be a "birdo"!
                                             Bett Mitchell

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