June 5 bird survey
Although conditions were unexceptional, and a few common species were not observed, the surveyors had a wonderful day. The appearance in the park over the last month of Red-Browed Finches (often in the company of Goldfinches) was greatly appreciated by all, and is hopefully…
May 1 bird survey
After a wetter than usual April with a total of over 100 mm rainfall, the water level is high in both large lakes. This has provided particularly favorable conditions for deep water diving feeders in the large freshwater lake. Birds such as Australasian and…
April 3 bird survey
Recent rains have freshened the park, which looks excellent. On the day of the survey, volunteers were weeding, collecting litter and maintaining tracks. The female Rose Robin has been present for a week or more. It was also interesting to see two Rufous Fantails…
Jan 12 bird survey
A memorable survey. Common Sandpipers had long been expected, but this seems to be the first time the species has been recorded, in this case near the tug pier on the lower Yarra River. (There is a dead seal nearby on the riverbank.) The…
Dec 5 Bird survey
The survey was carried out on a bleak day and yielded a lower result than usual. However, it was very pleasing to see how much insect life there is, especially, currently, various dragonfly species. Water levels are higher than for over a decade, eliminating…
Nov 7 Bird survey
Both major lakes are very full – more than for at least a decade. Accordingly, wetland species numbers are down, mostly because of the current depth of these water bodies and many other newly formed areas of water offering good feeding opportunities outside the park. On the other hand, although the survey results were modest, several interesting species have been observed this month, notably the Brown Quail, Olive-backed Oriole, Fan-tailed Cuckoo, and Sacred Kingfisher. The survey team would like to pay tribute to the late Daniel Gilmore, a professional zoologist who visited the park often and was generous with his advice and encouragement. He leaves many friends behind. Photos Ursula Dutkiewicz
Oct 3 Bird survey
Glorious weather, but no unexpected or unusual sightings. Water levels are very high and vegetation in excellent condition. Two species of honeyeaters; White-plumed Honeyeaters and Little Wattlebirds are more abundant than usual. Insect populations are considerable, especially around the water bodies.
Sept 5 Bird survey
The Park is very green and plants are thriving. Water levels are high, and volunteers including corporate staff, are doing great work extending understorey vegetation. Common Froglets abound in some water bodies, and as usual, the Brushtail Possum near the barbecue sleeps peacefully during…
August 8 Bird survey
The park is in excellent condition, volunteers are busy, and visitors frequent. Most water bodies are almost full and hosting common froglets. Our prominent resident possum is still with us, half in and half out of its jagged hollow. Especially pleasing sightings were the…
July 4 Bird survey
In all, 44 bird species were recorded, including opportunistic sightings. Some highlights were the two Australian Pied Oystercatchers on the edge of the River by Peter Parrington (pictured), the Common Bronzewing pigeon, the Brown Thornbill and a Spiny-cheeked Honeyeater. The native species in the…