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Most birders know that the Gouldian Finch is
declining, especially in Queensland. The well visited spot at Georgetown,
until quite recently a traditional nesting area, is now all but
abandoned.
In recent times I have observed it on various grazing
properties round Chillagoe, the largest group being 13 birds. Last
Saturday I observed it on a new property, behaving as though nesting was in
progress. The food was Cockatoo Grass Alloteropsis, an important
item for finches. Black-throated and Masked Finches were eating it
too.
The Wet has turned the district green. The vine thickets
around the numerous limestone outcrops almost resemble rainforest, and herbs are
flowering throughout the woodlands. The height and density of grasses
makes observing finches difficult. But the real problem is the heavy
thunderstorms. Most roads are unsealed and creek crossings are
numerous. On Saturday I reluctantly had to leave the finches for another
time because of rain. It's possible to be stranded in the back country for
weeks.
Chillagoe is not well known by birders. The bird with
the greatest profile is the Chillagoe Swiftlet. If ever it is split,
birders will doubtless flock to the tower karst landscape like never
before.
Glenn
Glenn Holmes & Associates Environmental
Consulting Services
Birding & botanical specialists
PO Box
1246
Atherton Qld 4883
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