October’s survey recorded 47 species for the day, equal to the noteworthy September 2007 tally. (Our average over 55 surveys is 39 species.) Spotting the shy Buff-banded Rail resident for some time near our compound, would have meant a new record. Even more significant are observations by Friends members for September 2011: repeated sightings of White-necked Heron, Nankeen Night-Heron, a Barn Owl, Grey Fantails and others.

Water levels remain very high in the two large lakes and dam; indeed all wetlands, some of which were dry until last month, now have water. Diving birds are plentiful, with increased Hoary-headed Grebes, but lower numbers of Hardheads and Australasian Grebes. The larger than usual tally of grebes, herons, egrets and cormorants in the large freshwater lake indicates there is plenty of food available, most likely Mosquito Fish (Gambusia affinis), an introduced noxious species.

With trees and shrubs in good health and growing rapidly throughout the park, there is good habitat for the five species of honeyeaters regularly present, including Spiny-cheeked Honeyeaters, which however are likely to depart soon, and shelter for the nocturnal Nankeen Night-Herons and Barn Owls sighted several times during September.

Bird Survey 10 October 2011