To Bob & Others
Red-tailed Tropicbirds have been most often found in NSW coastal waters (or
inland) between February and April, though one or two historical records are
for around June. In Western Australia they are more likely to be found in
the winter and spring. Most of the data I have collected is in HANZAB if
you want more details. They are much more likely to be seen around their
breeding colonies at Lord Howe, Norfolk, etc for a greater part of the year.
This species ranges widely over the pelagic all year at the latitude that
the individual breeds but generally avoid land unless they have breeding in
mind. Cyclones change this pattern.
As for flying with radio controlled aircraft: I have no knowledge of them
doing that.
Thanks for posting the interesting sighting
Mike
==========
Dr Mike Tarburton
Dean: School of Science & Technology
Pacific Adventist University
PMB Boroko
Papua New Guinea
-----Original Message-----
From: Bob Way
Sent: Saturday, 2 November 2002 5:10 PM
To: birding-aus
Subject: Red-tailed Tropicbird at Long Reef
While waiting to tee-off on the 14th at Long Reef (Sydney's Northern
Beaches) this afternoon I happened to look up at the radio controlled model
aeroplanes (gliders) flying in the updraught created at a vertical section
of the headland. There were about 6 of them. Imagine my surprise when I
realised that soaring with them was a Red-tailed Tropicbird! It stayed in
close association with the planes for a few minutes before drifting away
towards the sea/rock-shelf.
I understand that these birds are only occasional visitors to these parts,
mostly turning up over offshore waters in Summer/Autumn. Is this a bit
early for them? Further, has anyone else seen birds associate with model
aeroplanes in this way?
Bob
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