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Hi All.
Took a mate (non-birder) around a few of the spots
near Newcastle today.
The removal of the mangroves at the Stockton wader
roost seems to have worked. Hundreds of birds there, mostly Godwits and
Curlews but also a distant flock of many hundreds of Red-necked Avocets was
spectacular. The wind was very strong and the waders were restless after
several Sea-eagles flew over so couldn't get very good views of the smaller
waders (whichI have enormous trouble with in any case), but could pick out
Grey-tailed Tattler, Curlew Sandpiper, Red Knot.
Definitely going to be back for more looks this
summer.
Then to Ash Island which was dead except for a
lovely pair of Black-necked Storks at Wagtail Rd.
Finally over to Paramalong? Wetlands (Cedar Hill Rd
Swamp). Plenty of birds here including at least 18 Yellow-billed
Spoonbills, the most I've ever seen in one place. Plenty of Sharp-tailed
Sandpipers, some Red-kneed Dotterels and the usual waterfowl. 2
White-necked Herons was nice.
Whilst on the causeway a local leaving stopped to
warn me of the snakes. He said a large Red-bellied Black lived under the
causeway and sure enough, a bit later we saw it sunning itself on a ledge there.
The local said there were lots about at the moment.
Anyway, a nice few hours but the wind was terrible,
which reduced the usefulness of the scope.
Good birding.
Robert Quinan
Central Coast, NSW,
Aust.
Email:
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