Spiny-cheeked Honeyaters in the County of Cumberland (Sydney NSW)

["Ricki Coughlan" <>]

Hi Alan

I've been in touch with Steve Anyon-Smith who informs me that this is a
first for the Royal, at least officially. I would have thought that others
who subscribe to Birding-Aus may have seen a SCH in the past at the Royal
and perhaps not mentioned it, as I nearly didn't bother too. Steve informs
me that there is a record at Botany Bay National Park and also mentions the
sighting on the Illawara.

In the 1970's I was among a group assisting Prof Harry Recher in researching
Banksia pollinators in the Brisbane Waters National Park. I have a
recollection that Spiny-cheeked Honeyeaters were there too, but would have
to get Harry to check his most ancient of archives to claim their presence
with any real conviction.

Thanks for doing such a nice job of checking. And as for 'good spotting',
well it was pretty hard to miss at eye level 2 meters away. It was quite
content to pose for some minutes, giving the occasional gurgly croak.

Were any of the years on your list during periods of drought?

Regards - Ricki