18-11-02 Wattle Forest Royal National Park
Some interesting moments today:
A large flock of Sulphur-crested Cockatoos, bombing and surrounding a
huge Lace Monitor which climbed a big gum near the river. With wings
outstretched, and intent ferocious looks on their faces the birds made
themselves look as big as possible , all screeching, the noise was
deafening and the Monitor after trying to outrun them,
came to the end of the tree limbs which were too fine for his weight,
so he tried hiding - stupid lizard!, he soon got the message. The flock
chased him down the tree along the ground, the birds were relentless,
not allowing him to hide in the shrubbery! This continued for over 30 mins.
and when we left the Monitor was still seeking refuge in greenery while the
Cockatoos kept vigil. We passed 3 other smaller Monitors on our walk.
along with a couple of Water Dragons.
It was a great day for birding, two Buff-banded Rails were feeding
along the river bank, and we disturbed a couple of Rufous Night-herons.
We always enjoy our visit to this spot, but today was rather special,
some birds perched so close to us, a beautiful iridescent Green Catbird,
Rufous Fantails searched the forest floor while a male Superb
Lyrebird scratched around and a Brown Gerygone visited its
beautifully decorated nest. The Bassian Thrush inquisitive as ever
and all of us being studied by Satin Bowerbirds, Black-faced
Monarchs, Crested Shrike-tits and assorted Scrubwrens.
When I whistled up the Variegated Wrens, some
immediately started "mousing" running around my feet, along the
ground, tail down, wings outstretched - hissing loudly! There were
several pairs of Leaden Flycatchers, more Rufous Whistlers at this
particular spot than is usual and while watching two Noisy Friarbirds
we heard the call of a Painted Honeyeater which we did not find, but
did hear again later. - can't have everything in one day !!
Judi Russill
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