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Hi Birders,
to IRON RANGE :
For easier access take the 2nd turnoff 36.5km north
of Archer River & allow 3-4hours.
Of the birds, expect to see readily White-faced
Robin, Frilled monarch, Tropical Scrubwren & Tawny-breasted Honeyeater. Also
Eclectus Parrot in a couple of locations on the walk track.
Yellow-billed Kingfisher, Green-backed Honeyeater,
Yellow-legged Flycatcher & Large-tailed Nightjar are all likely along the
road between Rainforest & Gordon Creek campsites.
Marbled Frgmouth,Red-cheeked Parrot, Palm
Cockatoo,Northern Scrub-robin, Trumpet Manucode & Magnificent Riflebird you
will hear & perseverance will likely reward.
Fawn-breasted Bowerbird proved difficult for
all birders in the area but outside the "Art Centre" at Lockhart River early
morning would appear the best option. White-streaked Honeyeater &
Chestnut-breasted Cuckoo very difficult . [but see Shipton Flat in part
1]
P.S. Thanks to Klaus Ehlenhut for the tip on
the Laughing Gull at Portland Road.
And John Barkla for his company & assistance.
LAKEFIELD N.P..
Absolutely overrun by feral pigs - saw at
least 100 in 3 days.
However really enjoyed the park, especially
Low Lake which was covered in waterlillies & waterbirds.
When crossing Nifold Plain from the western
side look out for a dam on the right identified by a couple of tall palms. This
is an excellent site for finches- we saw Star, Double-barred &
Black-throated. Also spotlighted
Barn Owl & Spotted Nightjar. At Top Whip Handle Waterhole - Masked
Finch & on the entry road to 12mile lagoon at the 4km & 6.5km mark , the
white-bellied form of Crimson Finch.
On our return spent a pleasant evening at Cassowary
House with its Red-necked Crake & various "critters'.
Then the flight to Horn Island to meet with the
"JodI Anne' & the Torres Strait.
As this trip has already been documented it remains
for me to again thank Mike Carter for organising such a great trip. I
started a landlubber but finished a sailor ??
Geoff. Walker
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