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Alastair Smith reports the
occurrence of three rare birds on West Is., Ashmore Reef.
Eurasian = Northern Hobby: A
juvenile seen and photographed well on 2.11.03. Not yet officially on the
Australian list but previously reported from nearby seas by John Darnell on 25
Nov 1997 and possibly from Christmas Is. Vagrants previously reported from Java
& Timor. Another new bird for Australia.
House Swift: One on 5.11.03
seen and photographed (just adequate).
Pale White-eye: 3 on 8.11.03. In
Australia, this species is restricted to islands in Torres Strait over 2,000 km
to the east. But it is present about 110 km to the north in the Lesser
Sundas where it is called Ashy-bellied White-eye. Not previously recorded in WA
or NT.
The Hobby and Swift will need BARC endorsement and
the White-eye should be assessed by authorities in WA.
Exciting stuff to keep us all on our
toes.
Mike Carter
30 Canadian Bay Road
Mt
Eliza VIC 3930
Ph: (03) 9787
7136
Email:
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