246 SMITH, Wader Records, 1963-65 [ Bird Watcher

However, a few minutes later, it rose up from the reeds and flew for about one hundred yards to a line of cyprus trees, where it disappeared into the dense foliage at the top of one of the tallest trees. During this flight it was harried persistently by two Welcome Swallows (Hirundo neoxena). The European Little Bittern, which is only of subspecific difference to the Australian bird, has been observed to perch in trees, but the habit is unusual and apparently it is confined to migrants on their · annual journey to and from Africa. F. C. R. Jourdain, in The Handbook of British Birds, Vol. 3, p. 153, discussing the cryptic postures of the European race, states that the Little Bittern "has even been known to allow itself to be captured with hand". Charles F . Belcher, in The Birds of the District of Geelong, Australia (1914), writes, "Mr. J. F. Mulder has a specimen which his son caught with his hand, after some manoeuvring on his part, and not a little fight shown by the bird". Another live capture is recorded by A. J. Campbell in Nests and Eggs of Australian Birds (1909). -M. J. Carter, Frankston, Victoria. 19 I 1/66.

Wader Records and Observations in Mid-Southern Victoria, 1963-1965 By F. T. H. SMITH, Kew, Victoria The ensuing records and notes, on the Charadriiformes, are from my personal encounters with birds of the group between ap­ proximately August 1963 and May 1965. In this period, two complete north-south migratory wader movements by several species, and one complete east-west movement by a single species, the Double-banded Dotterel (Charadrius bicinctus), were ex­ perienced. From these observations, it would appear that a north­ south migratory wader season begins towards the latter part of August each year, and ends early in the following May. This period seems to have been generally agreed upon by many ·Australian observers, long before my own interest in the birds began. Double-banded Dotterels on their east-west movement between the New Zealand region and Australia became evident in March, and most have moved away again by the end of August. However, a few of these Dotterels will be found earlier or later tlian the usual months. A feature of the period under review was the number of migratory waders seen in full, or almost full, breeding plumage. Of the 25 migratory species referred to in these notes, I saw 21 of them, at some time or other, in what I considered to be complete nuptial dress. Where the observation is unusual, I have described it in the text. · On many field excursions, the writer was accompanied by other observers who have, as the occasions arose, confirmed the December ] SMITH, Wader Records, 1963-65 247 1966

identification of rare species, or other waders that are generally considered difficult to recognise in the field. As in other years, bird-watching friends provided transport for most of the more extensive trips, and to them I wish to express my appreciation. I am also again indebted to the Victorian Ornithological Research Group, for inviting me, as a private observer, on their excursions to Mud Islands. On these field trips I used a 10 x 50 binocular for general work, and a 15 x 50 binocular when I felt it was needed for more detailed study. I have purposely concentrated on giving accurate dates, places of observation and accurate, or approximate, numbers of the birds, for the benefit of present and future observers of the Charadriiformes. Most of the observations were made within 50 miles of Melbourne, with a few coming from further afield. Readers wishing for more information on where to find localities mentioned in the text are referred to "Wader Observations in Southern Victoria 1962-63", F. T. H. Smith; The Australian Bird Watcher, June, 1964, Vol. 2, pp. 70-71. The list order and nomenclature, used here, follow The Official Checklist of the Birds of Australia, R.A.O.U., 1926, and amendments. Turnstone (Arenaria interpres). There were two Turnstones together on the Seaholme mud-flats on September 22, 1963. The same day one flew over nearby Cherry's Swamp, calling loudly. It was flying steadily westward with other smaller migratory waders. Over one hundred were at Mud Islands from January 25 to 27, 1964. Groups of a dozen or more birds were often seen, although two, three or four were a more common sight. Larger flocks were occasionally seen; one flock numbered 31 and another 63 . The Turnstones were observed feeding in all situations, with the exception of the well vegetated areas. Usually they were about the lagoon edges and nearby flats, and around the outer shores of the islands. This species is fascinating to watch and to my way of thinking is the clown of the wader group. I never tired of watching them as they fed about the islets or, at times, bullied each other. Occasionally I noticed birds with depressed tails chasing other birds. Probably this was part courtship display. All of these birds were in the non-breeding plumage but some were more intensely marked than others, especially on the black sides of the breast. Swiftly moving, close knit, flocks were frequently noted in the air and, as they sped about, they often called loudly and when close to the observer the rapid flutter of wings would be heard. Apart from the usual habit of flipping over shells, small objects and debris, they were often seen bulldozing small patches of a fine sea-weed with their bills and heads. Sometimes this weed was heaped up into little mounds by the birds. On one occasion I saw several Turnstones and Pied Oyster-catchers feeding together on the shore. An Oyster-catcher, after some jabbing and probing, opened a small mussel shell and ate most of the contents. A Turnstone stood patiently a few inches away watching proceedings intently. When the Oyster-catcher eventually walked away from the repast, the Turnstone rushed in and ate what meat was left in the two halves of the shell. I gained the impression that this was a frequent happening with Tumstones. The species was still in good numbers at Mud Islands from March 7 to 9, 1964. With their time of departure at hand they were somewhat more active than at the end of January, and much bickering and chasing about took place on the mud-flats. Some were in complete breeding garb, whilst most showed a definite change to that plumage. Another two birds were seen near the Altona Saltworks on November 11. Numbers were lower 248 SMITH, Wader Records, 1963-65 Bird [ Watcher than usual on the visit to Mud Islands from January 3.0 to February I, 1965, when over 50 birds were scattered about, singly and in small groups. Pied Oyster-catcher (Haematopus ostralegus). The Pied Oyster-catcher rarely comes closer to Melbourne now than the bayside mud-flats, behind the butts at the Williamstown rifle-range, .a few miles to the south-west of the city. It is not common on the eastern side of Port Phillip Bay, but on the western side it is even plentiful, at times, in certain favoured spots. The species sometimes breeds between Werribee and Geelong, but more frequently in the Geelong district than elsewhere. Two places where nesting is noted often are "The Spit", at the Werribee sewerage-farm and at Mud Islands. During the period under review, Pied Oyster-catchers could be found in small numbers on the Seaholme, Altona and Point Cook bayside tidal-flats, with 15 being the largest group seen. Close to Melbourne single birds were seen at Hobson's Bay, near the mouth of the Yarra River. The bayside section of the Werribee sewerage­ farm always held several, and on "The Spit", at the sewerage-farm, on June 10, 1963, there were 59. This was a winter gathering of the birds and, although the Australian species is the same as the European one, none showed the white throat patch that the birds of the latter region take on in winter. Good-sized flocks could be seen at "The Spit" during the autumn and winter months, and on April II, 1965, there were, at least, 80 of the birds at the westernmost section. I frequently saw two partly albino Pied Oyster-catchers between Seaholme and the sewerage-farm. Both were similarly marked, the whole of the normally black areas of colouration being a mid-grey. The bills and legs were of normal hue. Sooty Oyster-catcher (Haematopus unicolor). This Oyster-catcher is rare and infrequently seen in the Melbourne and Geelong areas. One is seen often with Pied Oyster-catchers on "The Spit", at the Werribee sewerage­ farm. There are always a few to be found on Mud Islands, in Port Phillip Bay. There was a single "Sooty" on "The Spit", at the sewerage-farm, with several "Pieds" on June 10, 1963. At least two pairs were present on Mud Islands from January 25 to 27, 1964. One pair kept generally to the north side of the islands, the other pair to the south side. They were often with Pied Oyster-catchers and then it could be seen that they were a little larger in all proportions than ostralegus. Their calls are somewhat different also. The pair at the northern section of the islands occasionally swooped on observers when a certain area was approached. Probably they were nesting and had eggs or young near-by. Visiting the islands again from March 7 to 9, 1964, we noticed that three Sooty Oyster-catchers were still present. On August 16 and 29, one was noticed again in company with Pied Oyster-catchers at "The Spit". Three birds were noted at Mud Islands from January 30 to February I, 1965. One was constantly in company with a Pied Oyster-catcher and it was thought that the two were mated. They were frequently observed, flying erratically about the area. Some of their mad-cap low flying chases would end, temporarily, with both birds shooting upwards in a fast climb. The Sooty species was always the pursuer. Closer to Melbourne a Sooty Oyster-catcher, in company with seven ostralegus, was seen at the mouth of the Skeleton Creejc, Altona Saltworks, on February 7, 1965. Red-kneed Dotterel ( Erythrogonys cinctus). On October 20, 1963, there were two Red-kneed Dotterels on a small grassy islet in the Kororoit Creek, Altona. At the Werribee sewerage-farm, on November 3, there were at least four of the birds together, and I noticed that the species, when they could be seen on the muddy edges of the swamp, could be identified from a good distance by the large area of pure white about the throat. Otherwise the birds are difficult to see in their natural habitat of debris­ littered mud and grass. Also it was noticed that the legs are deep pink from the thigh feathers to the leg bend (or true ankle) and a little below, with the lower legs and toes being blue-grey. During the rest of November and December, 1963, and January and February, 1964, on several occasions I recorded single birds and pairs about the Altona and Werribee area. At the western end of Cherry's Swamp, Altona, on March 15, 1964, December ] SMITH, Wader Records, 1963-65 249 1966 there were four birds. Two were adults and the others were full sized, duller hued, young. The old birds seemed concerned with the safety of the young ones and took them out of sight behind some thatch grass­ tussocks in shallow water. I suspected that the young had been hatched near-by. Visiting a rapidly drying, spike-rush pond at Fisherman's Bend, on March 27, I saw six Red-kneed Dotterels together. The species was to be seen in this area all through April and May, and my last record was of a lone bird on June 13. This bird, like some others of the species I have watched, was aggressive toward other species frequenting the same pond. Several times it charged head down at Spotted Crakes (Porzana fluminea) and Sharp-tailed Sandpipers. At the Werribee sewerage-farm, on March 28, 1964, I was surprised to see a good number of Red-kneed Dotterels at a shallow, muddy sewage treatment marsh, sparsely fringed with cumbungi, near Lake Borrie. I was able to count 66 birds in view at the same time. Although, no doubt, I missed a few that were obscured by aquatic vegetation. The birds were spread out over about two acres and were feeding with many Sharp-tailed Sandpipers, Curlew-Sandpipers and Red-necked Stints. A few Spotted Crakes were also near-by. At the same place on April 19, the birds were still to be seen, and on May 5, I counted 70 Red-kneed Dotterels, most of them allowing a close approach. On July 19 and August 16, there were still over 50 of the Dotterels present, but they were much more widely scattered. Visiting the same place on August 23, I could not find even a single bird, and I surmised that they all had moved to more northern lakes and billabongs for breeding. The next bird to be seen by me, a few months later, was also at the sewerage-farm. This was on February 2, 1965, and the Dotterel was in immature plumage, being white on the under parts and lacking all the black marking across the breast. During March and April, 1965, I saw a few singles and pairs about Altona, with six birds at the Maddox Road Swamp, west Williamstown, on March 21. With Black-fronted Dotterels at a fresh-water pool, by the Patterson River, Carrum, on March 13, there was a lone Red-kneed Dotterel. Australian Spur-winged Plover (Lobibyx novae-hollandiae). The Spur­ winged Plover is resident, and common in places, in southern Victoria. To the west of Melbourne and around the Geelong district seems to constitute its stronghold, at least in central-southern Victoria. The bird is by no means rare on the Mornington Peninsula, to the south-east of Melbourne. The pattern in these places is much the same each year. They breed in widely scattered pairs over this area, selecting mostly wide fields and swampy flats in usually somewhat isolated places. Occasionally there are incidences of pairs nesting close to human habitation. Egg laying takes place from about the end of June to early in November, the main months appearing to be August and September. After most of the breeding is over the species tend to form flocks. Some of the flocks at times, in certain areas, contain up to 300 or more birds. More commonly, in late summer and autumn, flocks of up to and exceeding 100 may be seen , sometimes within 10 miles on the western side of Melbourne. The Spur-winged Plover is undoubtedly maintaining its numbers in the area under review, and is probably on the increase. Occasionally pairs will take up residence on large lawns about buildings, particularly factories, and on roadside nature-strips and vacant allotments in some densely populated, outer suburbs. Banded Plover (Zonifer tricolor). The Banded Plover has become much rarer close to Melbourne in recent years, but in the Geelong district it is still abundant in some places. At the eminently suitable Werribee sewerage-farm, I have found the species to be scarce. A short distance to the west, about Avalon and Lara, it breeds, and flocks can be found there in autumn and winter. I saw a pair on a gravel roadway that was running through a flat rock-strewn area of the sewerage-farm on June 10, 1963. They moved into a near-by field and one, a little smaller than the other, squatted in 250 SMITH, Wader Records, 1963-65 Bird [ Watcher short grass near a small boulder for several minutes. However. on investigation there was no sign of a nest. The two birds were still in the vicinity on September 14, and probably did nest there. About two miles south-east of Flinder's Peak at the You-Yangs (granitic hills) on July 14, there were two Banded Plovers in a recently ploughed, newly rain-flooded field. In a stony paddock near the Geelong Road at Lara, on August 8, there were at least three of the birds, with six there on November 30, and three on January 18, 1964. There were at least two birds at Fisherman's Bend, near the east side of the mouth of the Yarra River, on October 10, 1963. This area up till about 10 years ago used to hold many Banded Plovers, and they often nested there. Now that there is much long grass and more human disturbance the species is a rare visitor. On May 2, 1964, where a small creek broadened out over a wide shallow grassy depression, in a large field just west of Maidstone Street, North Altona, there were four of these plovers. The following day eight were seen, and they made an attractive sight as they flew about, occasionally with the full sun on them and dark clouds behind. In the same area, but in a short-grassed field, on the east side of Maidstone Street on June 21, were 15 birds. Much flying about and calling was indulged in, and the birds seemed to be pairing. On July 18, I noted six birds in the same field and again on July 25. On the latter occasion, I found two nests by watching the activities of the birds from some distance, with a binocular. The first nest contained four eggs, which were bright-green in ground colour and freckled with black. The other nest held three light brownish coloured eggs, which were more sparsely speckled than the first clutch. Both nests, which were well apart, were in slight depressions and lined thinly, but evenly, with small pieces of dried horse dung and cattle dung, and short pieces of dead grass stems. The nesting Plovers seemed to be worried by the close proximity of several Ravens (Corvus coronoides) feeding about the field. The Plovers swooped at the Ravens uttering shrill screams as the large black birds fed on the ground, or flew about. A Kestrel (Falco cenchroides) and a Brown Hawk (F. berigora) were also attacked, as were most other large birds that ventured near the nests. Near-by, at the Golf-links Swamp, Altona, on August 18, I heard the unmistakable calls of this species above me. Five Banded Plovers in a loose group were flying to the south-west over the swamp. They came down in a paddock on the far side. Four well scattered pairs were in the nesting field near Maidstone Street, north Altona, on August 17, 1964. No young birds were seen, but no doubt there were some well concealed about the field. Whilst watching an aerial pageant at the R.A.A.F. base, at Laverton, on September 20, 1964, I was much taken by the antics of a number of these birds near the runways. Nesting appeared to be in progress, as birds were noted sitting for long periods in short grass in areas prohibited to the general public. The birds seemed to take little notice of the many taxiing and low flying aircraft, or the more than 100,000 people that were in attendance. On bare ground, roughened by tracked earth-moving vehicles, at the Werribee sewerage-farm, on December 16, 1964, there were six Banded Plovers. Two were obviously nearly full-grown young birds. Grey Plover (Pluvialis squatarola). On December 12, 1963, there were six of these magnificent birds together at the beginning of "The Spit", at the Werribee sewerage-farm. They flew from the raised sandy roadway, where they had been at rest, to the waters edge as we approached. When on the alert they appeared as long-legged, long-necked birds, but when relaxed they assumed the more usual, less elegant, robust appearance. Later as they fl ew close past us, we saw to perfection the white rump and pale tail, the latter barred darkly, the whitish wing-bars and the outstanding black axillaries. From January 25 to 27, 1964, at Mud Islands over 150 Grey Plover were present. Frequently small flocks of up to 18 were noted, but larger December ] SMITH, Wader Records, 1963-65 251 1966 groups, such as 42 on one occasion and 75 on another, were counted. They were seen all about the islands, but they appeared to prefer the lagoon edges for feeding. They also frequently waded in shallow water at the lagoon and seaward shores. When feeding and at rest they were often in company with other waders, mainly Bar-tailed Godwits and Great Knots, but more often they formed flocks of their own species. Their soft long drawn out calls of "Pee-ee-eet" could be heard day and night. At Mud Islands, from March 7 to 9, 1964, there were Jess than two dozen Grey Plovers in evidence. None was in marked change to breeding plumage. At "The Spit", Werribee sewerage-farm, on August 16, 1964, there were four incoming birds. All were in non-breeding plumage. At the same place on August 29, there was a lone bird in almost full breeding garb. The upper parts were a silvery-grey, speckled with black, and the under parts from chin to the white lower ~bdomen and under tail coverts were black, but lacking in intensity on the throat and fore-neck. In this state of plumage the dark axillaries were difficult to detect in flight. Also on "The Spit", on September 9, there was a lone bird; on September 13, three together, and on January 22, 1965, there were four. All the birds that were seen on these last three dates were in the non-breeding plumage. Over 100 Grey Plovers were present at Mud Islands from January 30 to February 1, 1965. I noted on that visit that the calls of this species and the Grey-tailed Tattler had certain similarities. Eastern Golden Plover (Pluvialis dominicus). One bird of this species, in almost full breeding plumage, was seen in company with a single Eastern Curlew on a rubble-strewn beach, just west of the Point Cook homestead, on September 15, 1963. This was the first returning bird that I had seen for the 1963-1964 season. By September 22, there were three at bayside Sea­ holme, and about a dozen at nearby Cherry's Swamp. Of the three birds at Seaholme, one was in the full non-breeding plumage and the others showed a small trace of black on the under parts. From the end of September, 1963, to early April, 1964, Golden Plovers were frequently observed in the bayside Seaholme-Cherry's Swamp vicinity. When the tide was out in Port Phillip Bay the birds fed on the sandy-muddy tidal flats, and about rocky areas. When the tide was full they often rested among short salt-vegetation about the eastern section of Cherry's Swamp, about a mile from the bay-shore. The largest number seen on any one day, either at Seaholme or Cherry's Swamp, was 23 birds. During most of the wader months some of the birds exhibited varying amounts of black on the under parts. On arrival, mainly in September and October, a few could be seen in full or nearly full breeding plumage. Return to the same state of plumage became apparent from approximately mid-February till the last bird was seen. In fact, during March some birds were in full nuptial dress. Between these times most of them showed complete non-breeding garb, except for the odd birds with a dark blotch or two below. Sometimes the birds at rest by Cherry's Swamp were accompanied by a few Sharp-tailed Sandpipers. Some other sightings in the same period carne from such places as the shore of Stingaree Bay, and at the Geelong saltworks, where a flock of about 20 was noted on November 30, 1963. On December 5, there were at least 14 on rocks in the bay at Point Cook. At Mud Islands, from January 25 to 27, 1964, Golden Plovers were noted each day, the largest count on any one day being 27 birds. They were frequently in company with Grey Plovers from which they were con­ spicuous by their generally darker plumage and smaller size. At the islands they often rested, standing or squatting, in short Glasswort (Salicornia sp.) about the central lagoon. A return visit to Mud Islands from March 7 to 9, 1964, revealed that over 100 of the birds were present. Of these a few were in full breeding plumage, with many others in change to that pattern, showing black blotches below and more golden spangling of the upper parts. Day and night their distinctive "too-weet" calls could be heard about the islands. My last record of the species for the season, was of four birds at Seaholme 252 SMITH, Wader Records, 1963-65 Bird [ Watcher on April 4, 1964; two of these being in breeding plumage, and the other two in non-breeding garb. On September 10, 1964, I saw eight Golden Plovers among bayside rocks at Point Cook. This was my first record for the 1964-1965 season, although I had heard of three birds being seen there on September 3 by other observers. The pattern of observations in the Seaholme-Cherry's Swamp-Point Cook areas followed closely those of the preceding migratory wader season. The last noted birds, numbering five, were at Seaholme on April 4, 1965. Two were in breeding plumage, but the others had not yet assumed that state of feather. In the same period some Golden Plover were noted about the Werribee sewerage-farm. On November 22, I saw a dozen on a recently burned field near Lake Borrie. There were three at the McLeod Road Swamp, Carrum, on January 14, 1965. They made a most attractive sight as they stood at rest amid yellow-flowering water­ button (Cotula coronopifolia), on damp ground, by the swamp side. Over 100 were present on Mud Islands from January 30 to February l, 1965. Of these all were in non-breeding plumage, with one showing much black on the abdomen. On March 27, 1965, at Swan Bay near Queenscliff, there were at least 20 Golden Plovers. Some showed full to almost full nuptial dress. Hooded Dotterel (Charadrius cucullatus). I do not see a great deal of this species, mainly for the very good reason that I do not visit, to any extent, the remote ocean beaches that it prefers. The Hooded Dotterel is not uncommon along certain areas of the Victorian coastline. My own encounters with these Dotterels during the two years covered in these notes, were few and far between. Most of my sightings were made at Sandy Point, near Somers, where the species breeds, and an observer can usually see a pair or two during most months of the year. They prefer to feed over the wide sandy-muddy tidal flats, when they are exposed, and resort to the higher extensive sandy beaches for resting and breeding. I saw odd pairs there on October 6 and December 12, 1963; February 9, June 7 and November 11, 1964, and January 24, and May 16, 1965. On April 5, 1964, at Kitty Miller's Bay, Phillip Island, there was a single bird sheltering from the wind among small rocks. At the other, or northern side of the island, near Observation Point, there were two birds together. Along a mile stretch of beach at Rye, on July 26, 1964, at least 12 birds were seen, mostly in isolated pairs. There were six together at the east end of Summerland Beach, Phillip Island, on January 23, 1965. Three were in full adult plumage, but the others had greyish heads and lacked the black hood completely. The sandy beaches of Wilson's Promontory are good places to see the species, and at Norman Bay, on May I , 1965, I noted four of them. One was in the pale, hoodless, immature plumage. On June 14, 1965, there were 11 together at Oberon Bay. Mongolian Sand-Dottercl (Charadrius mongo/us). One area near Melbourne where the Mongolian Dotterel can be found ·with certainty, each migratory wader season, is at Mud Islands, Port Phillip Bay. More than 30 of these birds were scattered about there on a trip lasting from January 25 to 27, 1964. All were in full non-breeding plumage, excepting one bird which showed a noticeable pinkish flush on the, breast area. This colouration caused the white throat to become more obvious. They were sometimes seen with the Large Sand-Dotterel, and they could be identified from that species initially, by their smaller size, slightly darker upper parts, shorter darker legs, and more active feeding method. (See notes on the Large Sand-Dotterel for other plumage details.) Well over 50 birds were present at the islands from March 7 to 9, 1964. Most were still in the eclipse garb, but at least two had attained full male breeding plumage, the main feature of which was the wide band of reddish-rufous across the breast. A few with narrower lighter bars were probably females. The 1965 trip to Mud Islands from January 30 to February 1, showed that about 40 of the birds were present. Two exhibited some signs of the advance toward breeding dress, with a pinkish flush across the breast and some darker markings about the sides of the head near the eye. They were heard calling on a number of occasions. Mostly December ] SMITH, Wader Records, 1963-65 253 1966 a short "Drrit", but some trilling was similar to that of the Large Sand­ Dotterel, but not so loud or sustained. Double-banded Dotterel (Charadrius bicinctus). The first, newly arrived, Double-banded Dotterels seen during the 1964 influx, were at Mud Islands on January 25, 1964. Three, in non-breeding plumage, were seen on that date and others, in the same feather, on the following two days. They appeared to favour a rough patch of ground about 100 yards from the shoreline, in the north-east corner of the area. One was seen with a Mongolian Sand-Dotterel once, where it exhibited mainly darker brown upper parts and a thinner bill. The first Double-banded Dotterel I saw away from Mud Islands, was near the Altona saltworks on February 16. It, too, was in non-breeding plumage. Over 30 were seen on the rough clay bottoms of large treatment ponds under construction at the Werribee sewerage-farm on March I , 1964. They were most difficult to see as they rested on the rutted floor. At least 100 were well distributed about Mud Islands from March 7 to 9, 1964. None showed signs of obvious breeding plumage. During March, odd birds were also seen at Seaholme and the Golf-links Swamp, Altona. At Phillip Island, Westernport Bay, on April 5, the species was widely, but thinly, scattered over the northward tidal mud­ flats, particularly in the vicinity of Rhyll and Observation Point. At Kitty Miller's Bay beach, on the south coast, about a dozen were noted feeding over sandy-muddy patches between the rocks. At the Werribee sewerage-farm, on May 3, among several hundred Double-banded Dotterels, I saw the first bird with any suggestion of the breeding plumage. This bird showed a faint, but definite trace of the two breeding plumage breast bands. On sandy-muddy tidal islets, in Port Phillip Bay, just west of the Point Cook homestead, on June 6, there were over 250 of these birds. Several showed what appeared to be full breeding garb; many others showed signs of the bands, but most were in total, non-breeding plumage. The following day there were more than 40 at Sandy Point, near Somers, of which some showed faint bands. A most attractive sight was met with at Point Cook, on July 7, just to the east of the R.A.A.F. Flying School. Water from a huge open swamp, on the R.A.A.F. area, had overflowed into a large shallow depression in a sheep grazing field near-by. This formed a wide muddy swamp amid grassy areas, and low salt-herbage. In and about this marsh were over 300 of these Dotterels. The majority were in breeding plumage, with several others in marked change to that stage. Most eventually flew to, and fed about, a green-grassed slight rise, not far from the swamp and they made a memorable scene as they walked about. Visiting the same short-grassed upland, with another observer, on August 2, an even more magnificent sight was to greet our eyes. Now there were over 500 of these birds present, and all seemed to be in full breeding plumage. Only a few showed slightly fainter bands. They were spread out over about two acres and were busily feeding. With them were a few Red-capped Dotterels and some Red-necked Stints. It seemed obvious that the birds were gathering together preparatory to their long flight eastward. T here were still over 300 there on August 18, and more than 100 in another similar field, about a quarter of a mile away to the west, with lesser numbers scattered about the same general vicinity. On August 27, I could find less than 100 in the same area. Doubtless the main lot were on the move to the breeding grounds, and by September I 0, all but three had gone from that area. Also during August I saw many at the Werribee sewerage-farm, but by September 8, I could find only one there. It was in breeding plumage. Whilst on a visit to the sewerage-farm, on November 21, 1964, when all D ouble-banded Dotterels should have been far removed from Australian shores, I noted two of the birds together near Lake· Borrie. One was a little smaller than the other and both were in complete nuptial dress. They were on the rutted clay bottom of a huge treatment pond under construction where Red-capped Dotterels were breeding. Seeing that the birds were in breeding plumage. the possibility of their being a pair, and the time of the year, it was thought that perhaps they too might be nesting there. In fact 254 SMITH, Wader Records, 1963-65 Bird [ Watcher we considered that they were behaving very much like nesting dotterels, but despite a search about the huge pan, we found neither eggs nor young birds. They were still there the following day. The first Double-banded Dotterels that I saw in the 1965 season, were at the McLeod Road Swamp, Carrum, on February 16. Eight birds in non-breeding plumage were present, sheltering from a stiff south-westerly wind, behind small clods of dirt at a dried out section of the swamp. A few were smaller and slimmer than the others and were lighter hued on the upper parts, with some mottling. They also showed some dusky mottling on the breast. I thought that these were probably juveniles from the recent breeding. On February 21, there were two at "The Spit". Both were noticeably buffy about the face, frons, and upper breast. Numbers began to build up during March, and I saw the species at several places near Melbourne. On March 14, there were over 50 at Point Cook, and on that day, whilst crossing fields of stubble', between the R.A.A.F . Flying School at Point Cook, and the Altona saltworks refinery, I saw a flock of about 50 coming from the direction of the saltworks. They were about three feet above the stubble, flying swiftly toward Point Cook. Most were calling a soft "Chip" as they swept near-by. On April 4, more than 200, in non-breeding plumage, were scattered about a short-grassed upland near the north side of the big lake on the Point Cook R.A.A.F. flying school area. They were well spread out and most allowed a close approach before flying a little further away, when we got too near. The first sign of breeding plumage was noted, in that vicinity, on April 27, when at least one seemed to be in full nuptial garb and a few others showed faint breast bands. About 80 birds assembled on the ocean beach near Sandy Point, near Somers, on May 16, as the tide poured into Westernport Bay, forcing them from the mud-flats. Approximately 50 were noted in the same place on June 27, and several were showing almost fully developed breast bands. At Carrum Swamp there were more than 30 birds on June 22, and about 20 on August 17. On the latter date all birds that were seen were in the breeding plumage and there was much chasing about and prolonged calling. Three birds were still present at Carrum, on August 28, one bird had an injured leg, but these too had gone by the beginning of September. A feature of the 1965 season was the Jack of numbers in the Altona-west Williamstown area as opposed to the prolific season of 1964. Large Sand-Dotterel (Charadrius leschenaultii). Mud Islands, in Port Phillip Bay, are at present the best known places, along the Victorian coastline, to see this species. From January 25 to 27, 1964, there were at least 10 birds about the islands. Usually they were seen singly, but occasionally two together were observed. A few times Large Sand-Dotterels and Mongolian Sand-Dotterels were noted feeding and resting together. This gave several observers the opportunity of studying, at close range, the points of difference between the two species. Compared with mongo/us, leschenaultii was obviously larger generally, paler on the upper parts, whiter below, had more white about the face and frons and in flight exhibited a more noticeable whitish wing-stripe, and more white at the sides of the short tail. The legs were longer and lighter hued, and the longer and more robust bill appeared to jut more acutely from the face. Often they were heard giving voice to loud trilling calls, particularly when in startled flight. The birds had favoured feeding patches and if frightened from them, they would be found back at them again within a few minutes of an intruder passing. I was little prepared for the change in plumage that had taken place with some of the birds, between the visit to Mud Islands at the end of January, 1964, and the one from March 7 to 9, 1964. There were still about 10 birds there in the latter period. Three were in full male breeding plumage, and two or three others in probable female breeding dress. The rest showed some slighter signs of the change to that feather. The breeding plumaged birds were magnificent and one, in particular, allowed a few observers to view him closely for several minutes. The crown to the back of the upper nape was light reddish-rufous; the frons was black with a December J SMITH, Wader Records, 1963-65 255 1966 white spot on the !ores; there was black from the base of the bill to the eye and beyond to the ear-coverts. The under parts were pure white with a narrow light orange-red band right across the ttpper breast. This I took to be the male breeding plumage, the less distinctly hued birds were most likely females (Birds of Japan in Natural Colours, K. Kobayaski, plate 53). A feature of these observations was that Mongolian Dotterels, in breeding plumage, were in view at the same time. On September 8 and 13, I 964, at "The Spit" there was a single bird. It was noted there again in November, 1964. Mud Islands from January 30 to February I, 1965, produced at least six Large Sand-Dotterels. One was in slight change to breeding garb. As usual they were often seen with Mongolian Dotterels. Red-capped Dotterel (Charadrius alexandrinus). This species is resident in the area under survey, therefore there is no migratory movement to be concerned with, although there is some gathering together at much favoured places outside of the main breeding months. It is widespread and even common in spots, along the western shores of Port Phillip Bay, and at suitable contiguous swamps and saline flats. On the east side of the bay it is relatively rare and infrequent. The shores and mud-flats of Westernport Bay are well attended by Red-capped Dotterels, as are those of French Island and Phillip Island. Nearer Melbourne the species is particularly well distributed, along the shoreline and close by, from the rear of the Williamstown rifle-range to Avalon on Corio Bay. Many are to be found on Mud Islands and about Swan Bay, near QueensclifL The birds breed wherever they occur. Most nest on the coast itself, but many will come a short way inland for that purpose. The shores and flats of shallow freshwater swamps, such as Cherry's Swamp at Altona and the Edithvale and Carrum Swamps, to the south-east of Melbourne, are well favoured. Observations in the areas mentioned in the foregoing notes, showed the pattern of distribution, and general activity, to be much the same for the whole period under notice. That is, the birds split up into breeding pairs and are more widely distributed generally from the end of August to late February, with loose flocking noticed outside that period. A small amount of breeding occurs in months other than those mentioned. Even during the main breeding months, small groups of adults, to a dozen at times, can be located at places that are usually well populated by the birds at any time of the year. Outside of the main breeding months, roughly from March to July, larger concentrations of Red-capped Dotterels can be found in some places. During this period one can expect to see over 100 on the bayside mud-flats between the Seaholme township and the rear of the Williamstown rifle-range. Similar numbers occur at the Altona salt­ works and at Point Cook. "The Spit" and shoreline of the Werribee sewerage-farm also hold large numbe·rs of them. Sometimes I have seen several feeding in open short-grassed fields, usually not far from the bayside. When the large fresh-water swamps in the Altona district have dried out, at the end of summer, many Red-capped Dotterels can be found there and usually by that time they are associating with Double-banded Dotterets. Black-fronted Dotterel (Charadrius m elanops). Another local resident with no true migratory movement, this species may be found well scattered in pairs during spring and summer, or in small flocks in the autumn and winter. During the months from September to February, when most breeding is under way, the birds are in widely distributed pairs and family parties. Then they favour the muddy margins of freshwater swamps and streams, for feeding and nesting. The banks of the Yarra River from Kew upstream to Bulleen, and the edges of nearby billabongs hold several Black-fronted Dotterels at this time of the year. About Melbourne the species is not particularly fond of the bayside shores, or salt water situations in general. In fact, it seems narrower in its taste of habitat than the Red-capped Dotterel. The latter species, however, does not occur so far up freshwater streams as the Black-fronted Dotterel. It is unusual to see melanops on a sand beach or bayside shore. I have infrequently seen them in these areas and have heard of few observations from other observers. 256 SMITH, Wader Records, 1963-65 Bird [ Watcher

Outside of the main breeding months, which is most of the autumn and winter, the species tends to form into small groups and flocks, in certain localities. At this time of the year it is unusual to find more than a few of the birds about the Yarra River, and its swamps at Kew and Bulleen. However, in the vicinity of Altona over 50 birds might be seen in a day's tramping about the brackish and freshwater marshes and streams. Half a dozen or so would then be an average group to observe, but occasionally I have noted up to a dozen in close proximity to each other. The largest number that I have seen in one group near Melbourne was at the Maddox Road Swamp, on March 21 , 1965. Approximately 40 birds were present, on a quarter of an acre of mud and water pools. I was able to count 33 in view at the one time, with others being obscured by clumps of aquatic vegetation. This small plover, like its larger relatives the Spur-winged Plover and the Banded Plover, moves about at night occasionally. More than once, after dark, its calls have reached my ears from the heavens. On November I I, 1963, at about 10.30 p.m., a dark sultry, starry night, with a north wind, I heard a bird of this species high over my residence at Kew. It was moving eastward emitting well spaced "Chip-chip-chip" calls every so often. The Melbourne and Geelong districts can be considered a strong­ hold of the species in southern Victoria. White-headed Stilt (Himantopus leucocephalus). This bird is to be found about the Melbourne and Geelong districts during most months of the year. It becomes scarce during late autumn and early winter. Numbers begin to build up in August, the peak being reached towards the end of summer then gradually falling away as autumn advances. · During spring and early summer nesting takes place locally, some of the most favoured areas being shallow freshwater, brackish and saline swamps behind the bayside, from slightly west of Melbourne to the Geelong area. The three local saltworks are much favoured for breeding, and also the Werribee sewerage-farm. To the south-east of Melbourne some nesting takes place at the large shallow freshwater swamps lying between Edithvale and Seaford. The Carrum Swamp is the most sought after in that vicinity. F rom early summer to mid-autumn the full-grown, sooty-headed young birds can be seen about the swamps, with their ever anxious and doting parents in close attendance. The foregoing general remarks on the White-headed Stilt are indicative of its activities during the 1963 and 1965 period. During early August, 1963, a few birds were to be seen at their usual haunts about Melbourne. By August 28, a sudden influx had occurred particularly in the Altona-Point Cook vicinity. On that date I also noted a typical courtship display. The female was crouched fl at in shallow water. The male dabbed his bill a few times in the water on one side of her, then he walked around to the other side and repeated the dabbing action. Once more he went around to the opposite side with still more bill dabbing, and copulation then took place. More of the birds appeared at the swamps during September and I suspected, from their actions, that nesting had begun during the third week of September. On September 26, I saw egg-collecting boys at A ltona with three eggs of this species. In October and November, I knew of several nests, west of Melbourne, from Fisherman's Bend to Altona. To the south-east of Melbourne breeding was noted at Edithvale. Most of the small young birds were observed during December , and by this time the swamps were noisy as the distraught parents called anxiously, in their solicitude for the chicks and the eggs as yet unhatched. Some swamps in the Altona district held over 200 of the birds during the nesting period. On December 21, there were over 1,000 White-headed Stilts, at some marshy old sewage ponds, near the mouth of the Little River, at Werribee. T he next day I saw more than 500 birds at the rapidly drying Golf-links Swamp, Altona. The birds were still plentiful about the Melbourne and Geelong districts during January and February, \ 965, but their numbers diminished sharply in March. Only a few small groups and odd birds could be located there from April to July. At the end of July, 1965, and December ] SMITH, Wader Records, 1963-65 257 1966 particularly during August, the species began to return again to favoured areas. Their activities and numbers in the following months were similar to those of the already described earlier period. Banded Stilt (Cladorhynchus leucocephalus). Banded Stilts were rela­ tively scarce near Melbourne during the period under review. At the Altona saltworks, where in other years hundreds, even thousands, of the birds have been observed, the numbers were noticeably low. An immature bird, lacking the breast band, was seen flying about, and later swimming, at the Altona saltworks on October 27 , 1963. A similarly marked Banded Stilt was seen at Lake Barrie, Werribee sewerage-farm, on November 11. Another unhanded bird was at the sewerage-farm, about a mile east of Lake Barrie, on January 5, 1964, and on February 2 there were two more. Of four birds seen at the Altona saltworks on May 10, two were fully banded, one faintly so and one completely unhanded. They were in company with Red-necked Avocets (Recurvirostra novae-hollandiae), near No. 2 Pumphouse. A bird in full adult plumage was at the freshwater Dairyfarm Swamp, Altona, on September 10; six more were with Red­ necked Avocets at the Altona Saltworks on November 15 , and on December 12 and 13 there were at least 60 birds. Most of these birds had the complete breast-band, but some were unmarked and others were at various stages of marking. The next Banded Stilt seen by me was at the Altona saltworks on April 10, 1965. Two more birds were there on May 9, and one on May 30, and they were fully banded and were in association with Avocets. Red-necked Avocet (Recurvirostra novae-hollandiae). Sometimes this species breeds in the vicinity of Melbourne and Geelong but during the period under discussion I saw neither eggs nor young. Possibly some breeding did take place locally which I missed. There was a pair at the Altona saltworks on August 25, 1963, and again on September 15. At the Werribee sewerage-farm, on October 19, there were 35 of the birds, near the mouth of the Little River. On a visit to the Avalon saltworks on November 11, I saw 17 Avocets, of which two kept calling noisily, and swooped at a companion and myself, when we were in a certain marshy corner. No doubt eggs, or young birds were the reason for their anxiety. On the same day there were at least 35 birds at the near-by Werribee sewerage-farm. Whilst passing Lake Beeac, near Colac, on November 17, I saw three Avocets. At the Werribee sewerage-farm, on December 21 , 1963, there were over 200 Red-necked Avocets about marshy shallow sewage treatment ponds. By December 29, their numbers had increased to more than 300, and there was considerable variation in the head colour among these birds. Some were bright chestnut, but many were pale rufous or gingery, and were possibly young birds. Their musical fluty notes echoed softly about the marsh as they occasionally flew around. Numbers at Werribee began to decline during January 1964, and on March I and March 28 I could locate only one bird on each day. However, on May 3, I saw at the sewerage-farm about 80 Avocets in one group, and approximately 60 in another. In the same month, more were seen at the Altona saltworks, where I counted 51 on May I 0. They then moved .::.rom the area, but about one mile north, at the old Dairyfarm Swamp, Avocets began to appear, and by July 5 there were at least 100 birds. They maintained their numbers until September 13 , 1964, but a week later I could find only 40 birds in that area. There were over 200 at the Werribee sewerage-farm, on August 29, 1964, where I saw a peculiar display, which went for several minutes. One bird was sitting on a small islet, in a treatment pond, with another standing close by which was picking up small thin sticks, less than four inches long, and tossing them back along its right side. Later both birds were seen performing this activity. It seemed to me that the nest site was being selected. Nesting, however, did not take place. Over 500 Avocets were seen at the sewerage-farm, on January 22, 1965, and on February 2. By March 21 , I could find only 30 at Lake Barrie, on the farm. Approximately 150 were in attendance at the Altona saltworks, on February 7, 1965, this number persisting up till, at least, May 30. In the same period some 258 SMITH, Wader Records, 1963-65 Bird [ Watcher

Avocets were observed at Cherry's Swamp, Altona, with a total there of 18, on May 25, 1965. This species frequents freshwater, brackish and salt­ water swamps, with a decided preference for the latter, in the areas concerned with these observations. Eastern Curlew (Numenius madagascariensis). There was a bird on the bayside mud-flats at the back of the Williamstown rifle-range, and another, not far away, on the west side of the Kororoit Creek, on August 18, 1963. T hese were the first arrivals of this species, in that area, for the 1963-1964 season. One bird watched me alertly but the other fed busily. Later with the tide in, they were seen to· be sleeping among rocks at the bayside. These two birds were noted in the same vicinity during the ensuing weeks, but rarely did they feed together. Near the Point Cook homestead on September 15, 1963, there was a single bird associating with a lone Eastern Golden Plover. In flight this Curlew, and one seen at the Seaholme bayside mud-flats, on September 22, showed badly frayed ends to all the large flight feathers. Five birds were noted at Seaholme, on September 29, and there was some nice prolonged calling from them: mainly some mellow, rolling notes resembling "Kerrr-leee" and "Kerrr-looo", with variations. One Curlew which had probably just arrived from its northern breeding ground appeared to be still full of wild flight. It went sailing low over the mud­ flats, and the bay, in a most erratic manner. Twisting, rising and falling and two or three times, in quick succession, it almost flipped completely over on to its back, before swinging in a wide arc over the water and returning to the mud-flats. I have seen this fli ght of sheer abandon before, in this and other wader species, and have pondered on its significance. Several sightings of this species were made during the 1963-1 964 season, between Williamstown and the Werribee sewerage-farm. Usually seen singly, but at times up to 10 b1rds together in that area. On January I, 1964, at and about the Geelong saltworks, there were about 20 of the birds. Some were actually feeding in the salt-ponds, whilst others sheltered from a strong south-westerly wind behind levees and Samphire bushes. At Mud Islands from January 25 to 27, 1964, there were many Curlews. The largest number seen together at the inner lagoon was over 350, with over 500 birds frequenting the islands each day. As usual, at Mud Islands, most of the Curlews left for westward feeding grounds as the tide dropped and returned as it rose. On a return trip to Mud Islands from March 7 to 9, 1964, we found Jess than 20 birds inhabiting the area on any one day, and 10 were the largest group noted. No doubt the main flocks were pointed north and well away. The few remaining birds were in beautiful feather, and ready for their nuptial appointments on the far off tundra. Between Sandy Point and Hastings, Westernport Bay, on February 9, 1964, there were over 70 scattered across the vast tidal mud-flats. As the tide rose at Phillip Island, on April 5, 1964, Curlews came drifting in from various directions to gather at Observation Point. F inally 47 of them were assembled on the lower part of the beach. All were in immaculate breeding garb and there was much disparity in the hue of plumage and size among the birds. Some were much darker than others, and were larger generally. The smaller birds besides being lighter in colour, also had noticeably shorter bills and legs and, from a distance, gave the impression that Whimbrels were present. Perhaps it was a sexual difference, or some were young birds of the previous breeding. T he last I saw, for that season, were two birds at "The Spit", and one at near-by Point Kirk on April \9, 1964. The first incoming Curlew for the 1964-1 965 season, noted by me, was asleep, standing on one leg with its bill down its back, amid bayside rocks at Seaholme, on August 22, 1964. It did not wake as I passed. The following day at "The Spit" there were 10 birds by a pool at the lagoon, and another bird about a quarter of a mile to the west. The birds were feeding avidly and took little notice of observers passin g along the sand-spit near them. On our return, one of the group rose into the air giving voice to a number of hoarse, ringing "Crooeees". It flew, with a few side-slipping movements, low down, on distance tattered wings, for December ] SMITH, Wader Records, 1963-65 259 1966

100 yards or so, then nsmg higher it was followed by the othe'r nine birds. They flew in changing formation till finally they settled into a line abreast phalanx. Rising higher and higher, with a course set a little west of south, they had moved a long way past the lone bird, still on the mud-flats below. Suddenly it too flew up, and with a burst of speed it caught up with the others and joined formation. When last seen as dark specks against a huge white cloud bank to the south, they were at an altitude of several hundred feet, still ascending and still heading southward. There seemed little doubt to me, that they were still on migration from the north. Possibly their next place of call would be well to the south, somewhere on a Bass Strait island or a Tasmanian shore. The sequence of events for the 1964-1965 season was much the same as for the preceding one, so far as this species was concerned. Therefore the remaining remarks here are confined to observations considered to be of most interest. At Mud Islands, from January 30 to February I, 1965, between 400 and 500 birds were noted each day. Most of them preferred to feed in a few inches of water at the lagoon, and once I counted 369 of them feeding at this spot. A visit to the west side of French Island, Westernport Bay, on March 7, 1965, showed what a haven that area is for this species. At least 1,000 Eastern Curlews were seen during the day. On two occasions, up to 500 of these birds were seen arriving at a rocky point about a mile north of Tankerton Jetty. They came from all seaward points in ones, twos, threes and flocks to 50 or more. In the evening as we were leaving the hill at the end of the jetty, to meet the ferry back to Stony Point, a huge congregation of Curlews came flying up the bay from the south. Most of them were not far off the end of the jetty, and they were in flocks of varied size. They ranged in altitude from close to the water to about 200 feet. As the great birds passed by, a melodious calling rippled through the evening stillness from hundreds of throats, as they called in unison, or sometimes one after the other. As they disappeared in the early dusk, towards a far northern point of French Island, their ear-pleasing notes could still be heard, coming across the darkening waters. There is little doubt that Westernport Bay is the headquarters of the species in mid-southern Victoria. The last Curlew seen by me during the 1964-1965 season, was at Cherry's Swamp, Altona, on April 27, 1965. Whimbrel (Numenius phaeopus). This species is infrequently noted along the Victorian coastline. The only Whimbrel that I personally saw during the two seasons was flying low to the water of Westernport Bay, near the west side of French Island, on March 7, 1965. I was standing on the shore near Tankerton, with two other observers, watching long lines of Eastern Curlews fly past. Some of the strung out flocks were close to the shore and it was in one of the smaller, nearer formations that the Whimbrel was seen. In flight it looked quite plump with its neck drawn in, and although obviously smaller than its travelling companions, it also showed rounder ends to the wings. The much shorter bill was also noticeable, as was the white strip up the lower back. Little Whimbrel (Mesoscolopax minutus). A single Little Whimbrel was discovered at a large shallow freshwater swamp, on the south side of c dithvale Road, near Edithvale, to the south-east of Melbourne, on January 1, 1965. It was feeding alone in areas of short dead grass, that had become exposed as the water had evaporated. Good views were obtained before it became nervous and flew to the other side of the swamp, where it went into long grass and was lost to sight. Later, flushed from the long grass, it returned to the opposite side of the marsh. Once it flew about for a few minutes with a small flock of disturbed Sharp-tailed Sandpipers. The bird remained silent. Its plumage, particularly the flight feathers, appeared to be very abraded. On January 21, several observers visited the swamp to see the bird. It was noted feeding in an inch or two of water. Later, when disturbed, it went into long grass growing in shallow water. When flushed from this situation, it flew to an open area where it was viewed satisfactorily. Soon it had wended its way into the cover of long grass again, and when put up from the grass, it flew a long way up the swamp. As it flew it called in alarm, the notes resembled those of the Whimbrel, a loud rapid "Tit-tit-tit-tit" and similar. 260 SMITH, W adler Records, 1963-65 Bird [ Watcher

The Edithvale swamp had dried out by my next visit of February 2, and there was no sign of the Little Whimbrel. I continued on to a similar swamp at McLeod Road, Carrum, about one and a half miles to the south. This swamp was also drying out quickly, but still showed some large pools of water. The area was covered with many birds of several species, and towards the dried out centre was the Little Whimbrel, feeding in short grass-stubble. The bird was difficult to approach, owing mainly to "yapping" White-headed Stilts that were well distributed about the area. On detecting my presence, the Little Whimbrel became wary, but kept on feeding. Every few seconds it would stop and stretch its neck upward to watch me then relax to resume its feeding. Occasionally as it fed, it walked rapidly about as if pursuing low flying insects. Black-tailed Godwit (Limosa limosa). The 1963-1 964 migratory wader season produced a number of records of this species. During that period I saw at least eight different Black-tailed Godwits, near Melbourne. On December 12, 1963, one bird was feeding in a shallow drying out sewage pond, near the bayside, at the Werribee sewerage-farm. It was with hundreds of other waders of several kinds, migratory and non-migratory, and many ducks of a few species. It appeared rather nondescript as it probed the deep mud, but in flight it became much more attractive. Then the distinct upper markings became visible and caused it to stand out from the many other birds with which it was flying. The Black-tailed Godwit was later noted feeding in company with a Bar-tailed Godwit in the same pond. The Black-tailed Godwit was decidedly smaller than the Bar-tailed and probably the former was a male limosa, and the latter a female /apponica, as male Godwits are smaller than the females. This particular bird seemed so small that I spent some time watching it to make sure it was not a H udsonian Godwit (L. haemastica). (There have been a few Hudsonian Godwits collected and seen in the New Zealand region.) Although the sewerage-farm bird showed a distinct white wing-bar (L. haemastica has a white wing-bar, but not so well defined) I did not feel fully satisfied with the identification till I saw that it had white axillaries and white under wing linings. (In the Hudsonian Godwit the axillaries are blackish and the under wing linings sooty). This Black-tailed Godwit was noted on several occasions by other observers and myself, in the same place, till my last sighting, on January 18, 1964. On that date another Black-tailed Godwit was seen at the sewerage­ farm about a mile further west. This was a larger bird and in better feather. When disturbed it flew about overhead calling loudly "Witta-witt" a few times. Whilst counting Greenshanks scattered about the Golf-links Swamp, Altona, on December 22, 1963, I saw through my binoculars two Black-tailed Godwits. They were feeding together, in shallow water, near the grassy edge of the swamp. With another observer a close approach was made, and while we were studying the birds, in full sunshine, some Spur-winged Plovers became alarmed and called noisy warnings. Almost the entire bird population, of several hundred individuals, on and about the swamp, took to the air. The Black-tailed Godwits went up with the others, and flew swiftly over the water in disturbed flight. Frequently they flipped half-over in the air revealing the upper and under markings to perfection. The swift flight consisted of much rolling, twisting and side-slipping. Now dropping low, then shooting up high momentarily, as if to dodge an aerial obstruction not visible to our eyes, then down low again. T he two birds largely kept to themselves, and were not heard to calL At M ud Islands, Port Phillip Bay, from January 25 to 27, 1964, there were three Black-tailed Godwits together each day. Several observers saw them under extremely good conditions as they fed in the shallow lagoon, or fl ew quickly about the area. The three birds often fed with numbers of Bar-tailed Godwits, but just as frequently they were noted together and isolated from all other species of waders. A return trip to Mud Islands which covered March 7, 8 and 9, 1964, showed that the three birds were still there and together. All were still in full non-breeding plumage, although several Bar-tailed Godwits showed the full change to nuptial dress. I saw only one Black-tailed Godwit during the 1964-1965 season. It was December ] SMITH, Wader Records, 1963-65 261 1966 at the Golf-links Swamp, Altona, on May 5, 1965, in company with a few White-headed Stilts. Bar-tailed Godwit (Limosa /apponica). The first Bar-tailed Godwit that I saw during the period under review, was a lone bird on the bayside mud-flats, at Seaholme, on November 3, 1963. On December 21, 1963, there was another one frequenting a series of shallow old sewage ponds, near the bayside at the Werribee sewerage-farm. It was noted there several times until January 1, 1964. This bird, a large specimen, probably a female, was often noted in company with a Black-tailed Godwit. At Mud Islands from January 25 to 27, 1964, the species was in good numbers. A number of times each day, when the large wader population had been disturbed by enthusiastic observers, up to 800 Bar-tailed Godwits could be seen in the air together. The total population of this species, for the islands, was well over I ,000 birds. All were in non-breeding plumage, although some exhibited duskier breasts than others, a possible first sign of the change to the breeding garb. As in other years, most of the birds left the islands and headed for westward feeding grounds as the tide ebbed. Later, as the tide came in, the birds returned to rest in tightly packed groups, in the shallows of the central lagoon. The species called frequently and kept up a prolonged conversational murmur whilst in flocks, both when feeding and fl ying. They are fast flyers and when moving long distances will form either compact groups, or strung­ out swift-moving formations. When returning from the west out over the bay, and a few hundred yards from the shore, they would all drop down to fly close to the water. Then, on nearing the shore, all would rise up sharply over the low beach between the open bay and the central lagoon, before dropping down to preen and rest. On a number of occasions Great Knots and Grey Plovers were noted with the Godwits, in flight and when resting. On January 26, I was studying a group of Bar-tailed Godwits, standing in shallow water. T hey all appeared to be similarly marked and showed the usual disparity in sizes between the sexes. Suddenly they became alarmed and flew away over the lagoon. All showed the lighter hued barred-rump of the Australian sub-species, L. I. novae-zeelandiae, except one bird which displayed a pure white rump and lower back. The furthe·r the group moved away from me, the more apparent was the white on the lower upper parts of this one bird. Probably it was a stray of the white-rumped race which occurs in the European and North American regions. What a wonderful change had taken place in the plumage of some of the birds by the time of my next visit to Mud Islands, from March 7 to 9, 1964! Numbers had dropped sharply, only about 300 Bar-tailed Godwits being still in the area. At least eight of them were in the very striking full breeding plumage of the male, and several others in the less spectacular, but still attractive, nuptial dress of the female. Many of the remainder showed a marked change towards breeding plumage. Several others seemed little removed from the non-breeding plumage, and from these the coloured birds stood out distinctly. The rich reddish-brown under parts, and the beautiful mottled and speckled upper parts of the birds in nuptial garb, glowed resplendent in the early autumn sunshine. When flocks of lapponica were flying about, the coloured birds showed well, even at a distance. Then they could be picked by their all over darkness against those unchanged. Once, when several observers were standing on the shore keeping close to the warmth of the bre·akfast fire, a line of nine Bar-tailed G dwits came in low over the bay from the north-west. Seeing us at the last moment they rose up quickly and wheeled away. As they went over us their under parts were exposed to the early sun. One bird among them, a probable male in full breeding plumage, shone like a winged gem. Its reddish underneath being set off by pearly-white under wing linings. At Observation Point, Phillip Island, on April 5, 1964, we waited in the afternoon for the tide to rise and bring with it the· waders that would come to rest and bathe at the point, between low tides. Eventually 29 Bar-tailed Godwits arrived and were soon within easy viewing range. Two of them were in complete breeding plumage. One of the other Godwits 262 SMITH, Wader Records, 1963-65 Bird [ Watcher

was minus its left foot and the lower part of the right leg. Consequently the unfortunate creature experienced great difficulty in walking and balancing. It frequently held its wings upraised and fluttered them in its efforts to walk and remain upright. There were six Bar-tailed Godwits at "The Spit" on November 21 , 1964. Mud Islands was visited again from January 30 to February I, 1965. Bar-tailed Godwits were considerably down in numbers compared with the same period the year before. There were just over 200 present, and a few of them showed some well defined rufous blotching of the under parts and heavier mottling above. Eight birds of this species were noted at the southern section of Swan Island, near Queenscliff, on March 27, 1965. Wood-Sandpiper (Tringa glareola). At shallow salt-ponds that were under construction near the Point Cook Road, Altona saltworks, on October 13, 1963, there was a lone Wood-Sandpiper. It was more approachable than several Sharp-tailed Sandpipers near where it was feeding. The Wood-Sandpiper remained long after the Sharp-tails had fled the scene. The pan in which it was feeding held an inch or two of rain­ water, and scattered patches of a short green-grass type of vegetation. It flew a little distance on a few occasions, but surprisingly did not call. This species usually calls sharply on being flushed. A general description showed it to be a little taller and a little larger, although slimmer, than a big Sharp-tailed Sandpiper. The upper wings, and upper parts generally, were dark brownish-grey and spotted and mottled with off-white markings. Below, it was mainly white with the breast marked greyish. The long white superciliary stripe was a noticeable feature as was the white rump and barred tail. The dark bill appeared medium long, and the longish wet legs we·re a light yellow-green. In flight its toes were noted to protrude well beyond the tail tip. On October 13, at the same place there was probably the same bird, although now much warier than on the first sighting. When finally disturbed it flew swiftly a few hundred yards to the north, rising quickly at the same time. Then, it turned sharply and dropped steeply to a more remote pond. One Wood-Sandpiper was feeding in short swamp-grasses along the fringe of the Dairyfarm Swamp, Altona, on November 10, 1963. It was a wary bird but good views were obtained. On December 21, 1963, I heard the distinctive calls of this species overhead, at the Werribee sewerage-farm, and looking up I saw three of the birds together moving fast to the west. In the same vicinity on January 5, 1964, one bird flew up from a drying sewage pond calling a loud typical, rapid "Chi-chi-chi" (broad i) as it went. A bird was seen on January II and 18, 1964, at the same place, and on March I, 1964, there was one with a large number of small waders near the east side of the mouth of the Little River, at the sewerage-farm. At the Maddox Road Swamp, west Williamstown, on March 21 , 1964, there were two birds together, feeding in a shallow weedy corner of the area. One of the birds seemed to be in full, or almost full, breeding plumage. The upper parts were quite dark and well spotted and blotched with off-white. It had fine dark streaking on the throat and upper breast and was darkly spotted on the lower breast and showed some semi-barring of the sides of the breast near the closed wing bend. The other bird was similarly marked on the upper parts but was not so advanced below. It had a dusky shaded breast but lacked spotting in that region. Both exhibited yellowish legs when wet, but later when the legs were dry they appeared more greenish-yellow. T hese birds called often when flying about the area, so I took some on-the-spot notes. The main call was a loud, sharp, rapidly uttered, "Ziss­ iss-iss", sometimes just "Ziss-iss" and also a sharp "Ziss-it". A single bird, not the one in breeding plumage, was seen at the swamp on March 27 and 30, 1964. Two were observed at a sewage marsh, Werribee sewerage­ farm, near the west side of the mouth of the Little River, on March 28, 1964. The earliest record I have ever obtained of this species, was on August 29, 1964. There were two together, at a shallow se·wage marsh, bordering the east side of Lake Borrie, at the Werribee farm. They had been resting in short dry stubble at the marsh edge, from whence they sprang when December ] SMITH, Wader Records, 1963-65 263 1966

disturbed. They rose rapidly g1vmg voice to the loud "Ziss-iss-iss" notes, and a short while later came right back to where they were first noted. Later again they flew from the swamp to nearby Lake Borrie and came down amid the tangle of fallen limbs from the long dead Moonahs, standing in the water. Near Lake Borrie, on November 22, 1964, there was a lone Wood-Sandpiper in flight, and it dropped down to the area of dead trees in the lake. One bird was seen at the Maddox Road Swamp, on January 1, March 1 and 21 , 1965. At the wide bend of the Kororoit Creek, near Cherry's Swamp, Altona, a lone bird flew over my head calling loudly. It came down not far away and stood in a hunched and rather dejected attitude, but eyed me warily as I passed. In flight some of the alarm notes of this bird, to my ear, resembled "Chite-chite-chite". Grey-tailed Tattler (Tringa brevipes). On the visit to Mud Islands from January 25 to 27, 1964, there were a few Grey-tailed Tattlers present. For some reason none was noted on the first day, but on January 26 and 27 a few sightings of the species were made. T he largest group seen was of 21 birds, and this appeared to be the total population at that time. Once, when the flock of 21 birds was in flight just off the northern shore, they flew wildly about, low to the sea. Suddenl y three of the birds broke away from the fl ock, and alighted on a small sloping snag protruding about a foot from the water, approximately I 00 yards off-shore. Twice the remainder of the group came racing in with legs extended and wings and tails in the braking position, as if to alight with them. At the last possible moment they realised that there was not enough room for them all, and they wheeled sharply and sped away again. Often, as on other visits, I saw the birds perched on snags and other objects in the central lagoon, sometimes up to three feet above the water. Once with a 15 x 50 binocular mounted on a wooden tripod I got, by using considerable stealth, and frequent stops, close to a group of eight birds with the sun full on them. From this distance I was able to closely examine narial grooves. All seemed to be about half the length of the upper mandible, which to me confirmed the species as T . brevipes. The birds called frequently, day and night. Their notes are among the most ear­ pleasing of wader calls, and are usually rendered in a drawn-out fashion; just as the text books state, "Troo-eeet, Weet-eet, Ter-weee" and similar calls. If the notes resembled those of any other wader species present on the islands, it was the Grey Plover. Leg colour in sunlight was decidedly yellowish, and when wet the yellow brightened and showed at times a faint orange tinge. Although their bills were mainly blackish, in the field, I did notice, from close range, that some showed the basal third to have a yellow tinge, with perhaps more on the lower mandible. On January 26, in a small group of Tattlers, was one bird which was obviously larger than the others and had a longer bill. It stood out by its greater size both in the air and on the ground. I suspected that it might have been a Wandering Tattler (T. incana) and I was endeavouring to get more evidence to support this contention when the birds were disturbed. They flew out of sight, and I was unable to locate the larger bird again. One bird was seen at Seaholme, on December 12, 1964. A few Tattlers were still scattered about Mud Islands from March 7 to 9, 1964. Once I noted 12 together. Most were still in non-breeding plumage, but some were showing a darkening of the upper parts and some vague barrings below. One seemed to be in complete breeding plumage. It was perched on a snag and all owed a close approach as I examined it with a 15 x binocular. The bre'ast was distinctly barred with small crescent-shaped black edgings, and there was dark barring along the sides and flanks. There was no barring of the abdomen and under tail coverts. When feeding or flying about, the Grey-tailed Tattler is an elegantly slender bird, but some­ times when at rest it can look just as dumpy as a Knot. On another trip to Mud Islands, from January 30 to February 1, 1965, up to 14 Tattlers were noted in one flock, but there seemed to be between 30 and 40 in the area. At Seaholme on April 27, 1965, was a lone bird in non-breeding plumage. It was standing on a rock near the esplanade· and was not very 264 SMITH, Wader Records, 1963-65 Bird [ Watcher

wary. Perhaps this bird was suffering some illness, for every now and then it would shake its head and a watery substance was seen to fly from the mandibles. The short nasal grooves, of this particular Tattler, were well seen . Common Sandpiper (Tringa hypoleuca). The Common Sandpiper is a rare bird in Victoria. A constant watcher of waders about Melbourne might expect to see one or two each migratory wader season. During the' 1963-1964 season I saw at least nine individual Common Sandpipers, and considered myself to be very lucky. The first bird was noted at Braeside sewarage­ farm on November 5, 1963. It was feeding about a sewage overflow into a swampy paddock, at the east side of the treatment ponds. It appeared to be taking small insects from the surface of packed, dry, treated effluent. As usual with this species the hind part of the bird was constantly on the move, jerking up and down. Teetering, the Americans term it, and an apt description of the action. This particular bird eventually allowed a close approach, and it could be seen that the toes of the left foot were missing. This disability did not seem to greatly impede the activities of the Sandpiper. In full sunlight the olive-brown sheen to the· upper parts was well seen. The under parts were pure white except for the dusky sides to the breast. The white of the breast formed a slightly curved wedge between the wing-bend and the dusky breast markings. This is quite noticeable in the field , and is an aid to identification. The medium long bill was dark, with basal part lighter, and the legs were greyish-green. There was a single Common Sandpiper, with two Black-fronted Dotterels, on the muddy, snag-strewn, southern fringe of the Kororoit Creek, about 300 yards upstream from its mouth, on December 2, 1963. It was a very handsome specimen and I watched it at length. When the bird realised that it was being observed, the teetering of the rear section became more pronounced until the tail was flicked so high that it caused the breast to almost touch the mud. Once this bird flew up about two feet onto a snag on the bank (the roots of a long-dead large Mangrove) and fed for a few minutes about the projecting sticks, with some of the agility of a Tree-creeper (Climacteris) before daintily walking down a stick to the mud again. When it flew the flight was typical of the species, that is, low over the creek with a bowed-wing flick and glide action, before curving into the shore again further down. T he first time I ever saw two Common Sandpipers together was on December 12, 1963. They were along a narrow channel, swarming with kelp flies , at Coode Island. Both birds were by far the darkest specimens of the species that I had ever seen. Apart from the generally darker upper parts, the dusky areas on the sides of the breast were also darker. One bird showed the duskiness right across the breast, although fainter in the centre. The general darkness of these birds caused me to contemplate then, and for a long time afterwards, on the reason for it. Was it nuptial dress? Was it juvenile plumage? Or were they from an isolated breeding area where the Common Sandpiper inhabitants have taken on sub-specific tendencies? The Common Sandpiper is generally regarded as having no sub-species, but the Spotted Sandpiper (Actitis macularia) of America, is regarded by some Ornithologists to be conspecific with Tringa hypoleuca. On one occasion when I flushed these birds they flew to and alighted on an iron pipe, about five inches in diameter, which spanned the narrow channel, about three feet above the water. Whilst they were perched on the pipe they teetered very little. In fact, both stood perfectly still at one time, for several minutes, without any movement at all. I found from this incident, and similar later ones, that birds of this species can remain perfectly still for long periods, when so desired. However, when under close scrutiny they are constantly see-sawing. No doubt this is a result of their general nervousness. The water channels in this area, apart from being narrow are also quite shallow, and often the Common Sandpipers flew for long distances along a channel without showing the·mselves above the low banks. Two days later I visited Coode Island again, and once more saw two birds, but they were about half a mile apart. On December 18, 1963, there December J SMlTH, Wader Records, 1963-65 265 1966 was a lone bird at rocky-edged, man-made ponds at the east side of the mouth of the Yarra River. It was feeding about the rocks, and I was able to look down on it from a raised roadway. When it later flew a short distance it showed the whitest wing-bars that I have ever seen in the species. At old sewage treatment ponds, at the south end of Farm Road, Werribee sewerage-farm, on December 21 , 1963, there was a single bird. It flew from the decking of a small wooden jetty which protruded into one of the more open, unvegetated ponds. In the same area, on March I , 1964, was another Common Sandpiper, possibly the same one. It was sheltering from a stift south-east wind behind two large knobs of clay, on the bare edge of the pond. My second sighting of two birds together was on April 4, 1964, at the east side of the Yarra River mouth. Excellent views were obtained from close up, in bright sunlight. Again, as in other years, I was amazed by their agility when climbing about large rocks at the waters edge. They went straight up one side and head first down the other, and occasionally jumped from one rock to another. At the same p lace on April 12 there was one bird, and on April 25, two well separated birds. Few Common Sandpipers were seen during the 1964-1965 migratory wader season. The fi rst bird that was noticed returning was seen near the mouth of the Yarra River, on September 16, 1964. Its flight feathers were noticeably worn from the recent long journey. There was one at the Skeleton Creek, Altona saltworks, on November 11 , 1964. On the eastern side of Port Phillip Bay, on January 26, 1965, there was a single bird about some muddy edged pools, alongside the Patterson River at Carrum. It flew up twice as I went by. On the second occasion, just as it was alighting again, it was struck at by a fast moving Little Falcon (Falco longipennis), which missed the intended victim narrowly and then kept going. At the same place on March 13, 1965, was the same, or another, Common Sandpiper. A feature of all my observations on this species is that not once did I hear calls from the birds. I have since heard the ca1ls several times while on a trip to North Queensland, during the spring of 1964. There is a good deal of variati on in leg colour amongst individuals. Most appear to be greenish with a fain t ye11 owish tinge. Some birds with wet legs, in direct sunlight, show mostly yellow legs. Greenshank (Tringa nebularia). Odd Greenshanks spend the southern winter about-the Melbourne and Geelong areas each year, mainly at the three saltworks. The first incoming Greenshanks noted by me for the 1963- 1964 season, were at the Skeleton Creek, Altona saltworks, on August 25, 1963. At least nine birds were seen, and once four birds together flew from the saltworks out over the nearby bay. After flying excitedly about for a few minutes, they returned to the shore. One of the birds was close to breeding plumage, being quite dark on the upper parts and heavily dark streaked on the sides of the neck and breast, the markings meeting across the mid-breast. On September 15, I saw at least 22 birds at the Altona saltworks. They were well scattered about, mainly singly and in pairs, but once there were eight together. They were shy and jumpy and difficult of approach. At Hann's Inlet, in the Somers area, Mornington Peninsula, on October 10, were 18 Greenshanks, a 11 of which seemed to be in the pale non-breeding plumage. During October I observed several of the birds at various places near Melbourne, but a visit to the Werribee sewarage-farm on October 19, failed to reveal a sin gle bird, even in much favoured corners. One bird of about 30 seen a• Avalon saltworks, on November 2, seemed to become upset by the anxwus calls and displays of several nesting White-headed Stilts and flew about for several minutes close to observers, calling in alarm. Probably the same notes used when defending its own nest in the far north. In the Geelong district on November 30, I saw 23 birds along the southern fringe of Lake Connewarre, and over 40 at the Geelong saltworks. During December Greenshanks were seen at many places not far from Melbourne. They were at the Maddox Road Swamp, west Wi1liamstown ; Altona saltworks; the Golf-l inks Swamp and the wide bend of the Kororoit 266 REVIEWS Bird [ Watcher

Creek, Altona; the Werribee sewerage-farm, and at the mouth of the Yarra River. These records ranged from single birds to over 40 at more favoured haunts. I recorded that the leg colour ,of some was a pale olive-green, while others showed a subdued yellow tinge. The first sign of return to breeding plumage, noted by me, was on January 18, 1964, when a bird at the Geelong saltworks exhibited dark streaking about the neck and some spotting on the sides of the breast. At Mud Islands, from January 25 to 27, 1964, over 60 Greenshanks were present, and on one occasion I counted 54 birds in a strung-out flying flock. Their attractive calls were heard day and night. I watched with interest several birds feeding in comparatively deep water of the lagoon. The birds, with_feet still on the bottom, were half submerged and running about, still quite actively, pursuing low flying insects and also picking from the surface. The half submerged position gave the impression that the birds were swimming, and sometimes they did swim as they went suddenly into a slightly deeper area. (To be continued.) REVIEWS A Field-List of the Birds of Canben·a and District; compiled by members of the A.C.T. Branch of the R.A.O.U. This pocket size booklet, of 16 pages, " is intended to provide a ready reference in graphic form to the birds of the Australian Capital Territory". Within these few pages are details relating to 254 species of birds that may be found around Canberra. The graphic method of presentation is unusual for books of this type in Australia, although the format has been used overseas. Each bird has been given one line and on it is recorded the locality, type of habitat, its occurrence and abundance throughout every month of the year, and the duration of its nesting activities. This little booklet is not only of interest to bird watchers in Canberra, but it should be in the possession o( all observers, who could use it as a basis for the compilation of their own district records. Price 30 cents. Copy obtainable from W. H. Oldham, Box 378, Canberra City, A.C.T. - Roy P. Cooper. What Bird is That?, by Neville W. Cayley. 37 Coloured plates, 344 pages, $5.50. Angus and Robertson Limited. The publishers rightly state that this is the most popular book of its kind ever issued in Australia. fn this edition, the fourth, there have been some amendments made to the general text and the scientific and common names, as well as references to extension of the range of some species. The range of the Common House Sparrow has now been recorded as far north as Cairns, the Atherton Tableland and Mount lsa. The Supplementary li st, which covers birds of other countries w~ich , in small numbers in each case, have strayed to Australia, now "aggregates more than 50 species. Tncluded in this list is the Wilson's Phalarope, which was recorded in Victoria for the first time on February 6, 1966. An interesting addition relates to a new species known as the White­ throated Babbler, which was first discovered, in the Australian interior, by a party from the British Museum in 1963. For bird lovers who are not familiar with this book, there is a coloured drawing of every species of bird that occurs in Australia. The letterpress describes its common and scientific names, with the pronouncement and meaning of each scientific name, distribution, notes, nest description and where it is usually placed, and the number and description of the eggs. The colours of many of the plates have been improved and altogether the new fourth edition is an up to date book on birds, that will assist all observers to identify and learn more a bout the birds that they see every day. - Roy P. Cooper.

The cost of the additional pages in this issue was defrayed by a generous grant from the Trustees of the M. A. Ingram Trust.