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Hi there birders,
Over many years of birding I have suspected that Owlet Nightjars are merely
strange noises in the dark. Never have I set eyes on one, save for a fleeting
ghostly movement out of the corner of an eye.
The characteristic noises of the O-Nightjar have teased me on many
occasions around my home, but without a really convincing sighting. I have even
followed the sounds for ages at places like Hattah Lakes but without
success.
Imagine my excitement last Friday night when the typical nightjar noise
comes from the tree a mere 5 metres from our back door. A quick grab of a torch
revealed close up views (at about 3 metres) of an Australian Owlet-Nightjar; I
didn't realise they were so tiny. My wife even had time to join me before it
flew off.
Birding is a thoroughly enjoyable diversion when given such wonderful and
unexpected delights such as this.
Happy birding,
Trevor Hampel
Murray Bridge,
South Australia
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