Raven distraction display? Flocking Goldfinches

["Michael Hunter" <>]

Hi All,
         Over the last three weeks a pair of Aus Ravens has been loitering in 
the eucalypts at the top of Mayfair Rd. Mulgoa, acting somewhat furtively. I 
walk up that hill most mornings, when they see me coming they fly across the 
road from a group of trees on the right (N) to a single large one on the left 
and watch as I pass.
          Twice,some days apart, one bird has carried a nesting-sized twig, 
watched me approach, flew to the adjacent electricity pylon and deposited the 
twig on a crossbar near the top, look at me then fly off. The stick and bird 
have gone on my way back a few minutes later, no nest in the pylon.
          Could this be some kind of distraction behavior?

         Also saw a JACKY WINTER first for a while, and a flock of 50+ EUROPEAN 
GOLDFINCHES flying in the Valley itself on 24/7.  Plus the usual, Whipbirds 
active, but a dearth of ducks, just a few Woodies.

                                                Cheers

                                                           Michael

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