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Hi All! The Dubbo Field Nats (central western NSW)
recently held another of their quarterly surveys of the Glossy Black-Cockatoo in
Goonoo State Forest. This forest is about 40 kms N/E of Dubbo.
Goonoo is around 63 000 ha and for the survey we
have observers stationed at predetermined spots fairly evenly spread throughout
the forest. As observers record the time they see the birds arrive AND leave,
(among other details) we can be certain that the same birds are not being
counted twice. Most of the observers are not committed birdos, but they ARE
committed to this particular quarterly event. Staff from the Dubbo office of NSW
State Forests are a great help, and very enthusiastic observers.
This most recent survey marked the start of our 8th
year of quarterly surveys, and at 303+ was the highest count for this quarter of
any year. At one observation point there were more than 50 Glossies
wheeling and turning, and the observer was completely goshwoggled. The counts
fluctuate, and there are many variables which apply and affect bird numbers -
such as wet conditions, or recent forest activities like noisy campers that
frighten birds.
Apart from the glorious sight of over three hundred
big black and red birds (woooooor!) there were a couple of interesting
observations: observers recorded 35 King Parrots. Sightings varied from a single
pair to six pairs. This is remarkable because we once thought King Parrots were
uncommon in the forest. They certainly have not previously been recorded in
these numbers.
The other notable event was the total NON-sighting
of Common Bronzewings. One observer heard a bronzewing call. At times this
species has been seen in high numbers at every observation point. When we looked
back at previous counts we found that at the start of winter the Common
Bronzewing count is always very low. Where do they go in winter? And why are the
Kings breeding up? Our subsequent enquiries have shown that King Parrots are
being seen in increasing numbers by residents in the rural areas surrounding the
forest and on Dubbo's outskirts.
The campfire supper and brag session following the
survey was, as always most enjoyable. The surveys are held at the start of each
season, on a Sunday evening, and helpers or visitors are always very welcome.
Anyone in the area at the end of August can contact Janis Hosking, Survey
Co-ordinator, on 02 6887 2692 (AH) or me on 02 6882 2056 for details of the
spring survey.
Judie Peet
(The only thing certain in birdwatching is that
nothing's certain.)
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