Late date for Paradise-Kingfisher

[Phil Gregory <>]

A visit in heavy rain to Mt. Lewis near Julatten, far north Queensalnd
on May 13 gave us 2 Blue-faced Parrot-Finch up by the clearing in
dead lantana, and more surprisingly two adult Buff-breasted Paradise-Kingfishers
as we drove back down. An adult complete with long white tail was along
the main track about 100m above the Wet Tropics and State Forest sign,
and a duller bird with a short tail, orangey underparts and red bill was
some 300m above the sign. They seem to be staying very late this year,
Ron at Kingfisher Park had them one until May 11.
Cassowary House near Kuranda still has a male Cassowary with
3 large chicks coming daily at the moment. The chicks were hatched in late
November and should still be with the parent for a few more weeks as yet.
Red-necked
Crake is also very obliging, with one pair raising one youngster this
year, hatched in early March. There seem to be virtually no Noisy Pittas
around
the tablelands though, where have they gone?
Phil Gregory Cassowary House, Kuranda
www. cassowary-house.com.au