This morning (11/9/05) at Prospect Reservoir (40 km west of
Sydney CBD), the Grey Goshawks were found around their usual area however I
have yet to find if they are actually nesting (which I strongly suspect). I
have known these pair of Grey Goshawks at Prospect Reservoir for almost 2 years
and I am keen to see them actually nesting.
Other interesting birds seen included the 3 species of Grebe
(the Great Crested Grebes are now forming pairs presumably to breed. The Hoary-headed
however were seen in smaller rafts than on previous occassions), Brown Goshawk,
several Whistling Kites, Buff-banded Rail, Black-fronted Dotterel, Fan-tailed
Cuckoo, Rufous Whistler, Rose Robin (one still lingering about), Crested
Shrike-tit, several Variegated Wrens, Weebills, several White-throated
Gerygones and Olive-backed Oriole. Despite several trees in blossom, I did not
notice today any Scarlet Honeyeaters that were present around the winter at the
Reservoir (they may have been in the picnic area which I did not check or have
moved off). Fewer other honeyeaters were also about than present in the winter,
with the most common species being Yellow-faced Honeyeaters.
A beautiful Red-bellied Black Snake beside the edge of
reservoir was also a nice surprise.
A pleasant morning indeed.
Edwin Vella
