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Hi Birders,
Visited Cairns at short notice for a conference
between 14/8 & 18/8 & had a great time - (although more research
needed & a bit careless with the birding - a friend once said one
should always leave something for next time - no probs here & especially a
comfort for my son Maddie (10), who was quite touchy about missing out on
this trip despite cunning attempts to get a jumper). Took a bit of a while
to adjust to the different habitat but plenty of new birds & some 'old
friends' in a new place.
Highlights included:
Spotlighting & birding with Alan
Gillanders around Yungaburra & Atherton. Saw Lumholtz's Tree
Kangaroos along with Green Ringtail & Coppery Brush Tail Possums.
Spotlighted on my own later on that night & at 4.30 am when I misread the
time, caused in part by the smiley sticker put on my watch by Ryley(4) for me to
remember him whilst I was away - very pleased to find more tree kangaroos &
possums on my own - dipped on owls & birds of the night. Birded with
Allan in the morning with Brolgas & Sarus Cranes impressing along with the
variety of Atherton locals. Added Musky Rat-kangaroo &
Atherton Srubwren at Lake Barrine, a very beautiful spot. Also encouraged
by Alan's knowledge & enthusiasm for things
Botanical.
Cairns Botanical Gardens & old cemetery. Plenty
of varied bird life & excellent gardens. Little Kingfisher; Black
Butcherbird, Fig Parrots, Metallic Starlings & the wonderful calls of
Yellow Orioles impressing. Not many waders on the mudflats - a real shame
as my hotel room's balcony provided a comfortable viewing platform above the
esplanade works.
Kingfisher Park spotlighting with Andrew Iles &
birding. Giant White-tailed Rat, Common Striped Possum & Long-nosed
& Northern Brown Bandicoots & others. More time needed here next
time.
Daintree river cruise with Chris Dahlberg -
White-rumped swiftlets putting on a drinking display en masse all around the
boat. A spectacular river - I still can't believe I was actually there -
lots of great views including Papuan Frogmouths & courting Azure
Kingfishers. Oh for a lazy day or two with a canoe - until I saw crocs.
Cheers Matt
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