5 May bird survey

Water levels in the main lakes continue to fall, which probably encourages waders, such as egrets and herons, to return to the park. The Black Swans have just reared six cygnets, which is unusual in abnormally dry conditions we are now experiencing. In other wetland areas around Melbourne, such as the Eastern Treatment Plant the swans are not breeding.

Besides the two raptors – both photographed beautifully by Peter Petinatos – the highlight was hearing the call of a Mistletoe-bird. We have been waiting for this species to come to the park in response to the program over the last 2-3 years that broadly introduced several species of mistletoe. Mistletoe is a very useful plant in that it increases food supplies for insects and birds by flowering during summer and autumn; provides cover and nesting sites; and recycles nutrients. And the flowers are very appealing.

There have been some very interesting sightings over the last month, particularly an immature female Rose Robin, Southern Boobook (both nicely photographed by Ursula), Yellow-billed Spoonbill and Red-rumped Parrot. The latter, recorded and hopefully correctly identified on eBird could well become established in Westgate Park as the red gums mature. They could make use of the nest boxes already provided.