Vol. 7 June, 1978 No.6

Annotated List of Observed at Iron Range, Cape York Peninsula, Queensland, during October, 1974. By Joseph M. Forshaw, Research Associate, Department of Ornithology, Australian Museum, Sydney, N.S.W. and Kerry A. Muller, Curator of Birds, Taronga Park Zoo, Sydney, N.S.W.

SUMMARY Birds observed at Iron Range, Cape York Peninsula, Queens­ land during October 1974, are listed and brief field notes given for each species. The authors visited the district to study two species of parrots so their observations were confined mainly to a stand of riverine rainforest where the parrots occurred. The records complement a comprehensive list of observations made by members of the Observers' Club during a campout at Iron Range in early August 1970. The authors point out that in October 1974 some species were nesting and some summer migrants were arriving despite abnormally dry conditions, which appeared to have brought about unusual habitat associations on the part of some birds. INTRODUCTION In October 1974, we visited Iron Range, eastern Cape York Peninsula, to observe patterns of daily activity in the Red-cheeked Parrot Geoffroyus geoffroyi and Marshall's Fig Parrot Psittaculi­ rostris diophthalma, and to capture living specimens of these species for further study at Taronga Park Zoo, Sydney. Results of this work will be published elsewhere. Iron Range refers to a district encompassing the Claudie River drainage on eastern Cape York Peninsula and centred on Iron Range Airfield at l2°47'S 143 a19'E (see Figure I). To the north of the airfield is a ridge of high grade iron ore, the actual Iron Range, which gives the district its name. Johnson and Hooper (1973) describe the district and refer to watercourses, roads, seaboard localities and the airfield, so that information is not repeated here. Suffice to emphasize that the Claudie River, in­ cluding the West and Middle Claudie Rivers and Scrubby Creek, and the Portland Roads-Airfield road are important topographical 172 FORSHAW & MULLER [ B1rd Watcher features; the river system supports tracts of rainforest and the road passes through this forest thereby producing forest-edge habitat. Stanton (1976) draws attention to the extremely important conservation significance of the Iron Range district by pointing out th2,t it contains the largest remaining tract of lowland tropical rainforest to be found in , and occurring there are a large number of plants and not recorded elsewhere in Australia. He comments that apart from its scientific interest the district is aesthetically pleasing with its colourful forests and wildlife, its abundant freshwater streams, and its wild and beautiful coastline. Faunal affinities with New Guinea are evidenced by the presence of such spectacular species as the Green Python Chondro­ python viridis, Bare-backed Fruit Bat Dnbsonia moluccense, two species of Cuscus, Phalanger maculatus and P. orienta/is, the Palm Cockatoo Probosciger aterrimus, and the Magnificent Rifle­ bird Ptiloris magnificus. A similar theme is followed by Kikkawa ( 197 6) when he comments that Iron Range, with its surrounding rainforest areas, has become one of the best known birding sites on Cape York Peninsula, attracting both Australian and overseas ornithologists. The most recent comprehensive bird list from the district is that compiled by Johnson and Hooper (loc.cit.) from records made by members of the Bird Observers Club during a campout at Iron Range between August 2 and 19, 1970. Supplementary records are listed by Roberts ( 197 5). Our records were made in October, when nesting and migration had commenced, so they complement the records compiled by Johnson and Hooper. Furthermore our activities were centred on a particular area of rainforest with its adjoining open woodland, thus affording us the opportunity for consistent and close observation on resident birds, especially parrots. Few opportunities for observation outside our study area are almost certainly responsible for the lack of records of species known to occur widely in the district, e.g. swamp birds and the Fawnbreasted Bowerbird Chlamydera cerviniventris.

CLIMATE The markedly differentiated wet and dry seasons are well demonstrated by rainfall figures listed in Table I. The wet season extends from December through to April, with March being the month of highest rainfall and number of raindays. The dry season is from May to November, with September being the month of lowest rainfall though it averages significantly more raindays than does August or October. Table II shows that 1974 was a dry year with all months registering below average rainfall. The 1974 dry season was particularly dry with total rainfall for April to November being 404 mm, compared with an average total of 617 mm for these months. Dry conditions were most evident during our stay and were, we suspect, responsible for some unusual habitat associations, e.g. habitat preferences of the two Philemon species. Table I. Mean daily temperatures (degrees Celsius) and mean monthly rainfall ( millimetres) recorded at Iron Range, Cape York Peninsula, for the period January 1956 to December 1974.

Month Jan. Feb. Mar. Apr. May June July Aug. Sept. Oct. Nov. Dec.

Mean daily maximum temperature 31.3 30.8 30.1 29.3 28.3 27.2 26.7 27.8 28.7 30.0 31.6 32.0

Mean daily minimum temperature 23.4 23.2 23.4 22.0 21.5 19.8 18.4 19.0 19.6 20.2 22.0 23.1

Mean monthly rainfall 374 386 466 289 113 67 39 18 14 17 60 206

Mean number of raindays 22 22 27 22 17 17 13 8 13 8 17 16 Table II. Daily temperatures (degrees Celcius) and monthly rainfall (millimetres) recorded at Iron Range, Cape York Peninsula, during 1974.

,. Month Jan. Feb. Mar. Apr. May June July Aug. Sept. Oct. Nov. Dec. Jan. ' 1974 1974 1974 1974· 1974 1974 1974 1974 1974 1974 1974 1974 1975

Mean daily maximum temperature 31.6 30.9 30.9 29.7 28.9 26.8 27.6 29.6 30.3 32.9 31.6 31.8

Highest daily temperature 33.7 33.6 33.9 31.0 30.0 28.1 29.7 30.2 35.2 31.7 38.6 34.4 34.8

M.e~n daily mmtmum temperature 23.6 23.1 23.3 22.3 21.2 17.8 19.5 22.0 22.3 22.3 21.8 22.7

Lowest daily temperature 22.6 21.4 21.3 18.7 16.0 11.3 13.2 13.5 17.5 16.5 19.4 19.0 18.9

Total rainfall for month 298 335 403 198 81 20 7 9 20 13 56 ; 180 201

Number of raindays 30 21 27 18 24 9 4 6 8 7 10 7 18 June Birds listed for Iron Range, Qld. 175 1978 ]

In contrast to the seasonal change in rainfall, temperatures vary little throughout the year. The mean daily maximum tem­ perature ranges from 26.7oC in July to 32.0oc in December, while the mean daily minimum range from 18.4°C in July to 23.4oC in January. VEGETATION COMMUNITIES As pointed out by Brass (1953), Iron Range is essentially a rainforest locality and its zoological importance lies in the extent of riverine rainforest on the Claudie and Lockhart Rivers flood­ plain. This is a high canopy rainforest with spectacularly tall trees, some with enormously developed buttresses and their higher branches festooned with orchids and epiphytes. Prominent canopy trees are Nauclea, Castanospermum, Terminalia and giant Ficus. Common lesser canopy trees include Panax, Arythera, Myristica insipida, Garcinia, Ganophyllum falcatum, Bletharocarya involu­ crigera and Ficus. Undergrowth is generally sparse, but along the edges of clearings or where a tall forest tree has fallen there is a scrubby growth of tall shrubs and thin treelets such as Lunasia amara, Croton, Rhyticaryum and Ficus. In some low-lying, wetter areas the undergrowth comprises dense thickets of palms Gulubia costata or bamboo Arundinaria cobonii, with a few Pandanus trees and almost impenetrable entanglements of lawyer vine Calamus spp. There appear to be some tree species, notably Ficus hispida, which are confined to the edge zone and, as already noted by earlier observers, the ecotone between rainforest and open woodland is extremely rich in birdlife, contrasting strikingly with the interior of the rainforest where few birds occur. On higher ground rainforests occur in gullies and on sheltered slopes of ridges. These rainforests exhibit a good diversity of tree species, but are marked by the virtual absence of tall canopy trees with epiphyte-covered higher branches. There is little herba­ ceous undergrowth, and open woodland species, such as Acacia aulacocarpa and Eucalyptus spp., often penetrate well in as lower storey trees. In more sheltered gullies and on swampy flats Pan­ danus is widespread, sometimes forming extensive pure stands which are visited regularly by Palm Cockatoos in search of ripe­ ning fruits. Gallery rainforest, often only a few trees in width, borders seasonal watercourses traversing open woodland and these are important flyways for rainforest birds, including megapodes. Here also the forest edge is rich in l;>irdlife and there are some important food trees, especially Parinarium nonda and Ficus opposita. Second-growth rainforest occurs along roadsides or where primary forest has been disturbed, and is characterized by a predominance of quick-growing small trees, including species of Commersonia, Macaranga and Breynia, as well as wild bananas Musa banksii and stinging trees Laportea sp. Open woodland is, in total area, the dominant vegetation community in the Iron Range district. There are several types of 176 FORSHAW & MULLER Bird [ Watcher

open woodland, nearly all characterised by a dense ground cover of tall blady grass Imperata cylindrica and by the predominance of Eucalyptus or Melaleuca trees. In some areas, presumably indica­ tive of a certain soil type, trees occur in dense stands and suppress the growth of ground cover; messmate Eucalyptus tetradonta and Melaleuca symphyocarpa feature prominently in these dense stands. In more open woodland there is a variety of trees, with · Eucalyptus, A cacia, Casuarina and Leptospermum fabrica being prevalent. Also occurring in lightly timbered areas are Agonis . lysicephala, Jacksonia and Hibbertia species, Melastonia mala­ bathricum, Banksia dentata and Xanthorrhoea sp. Near rainforest appear Tristania suaveolens and Wormia alata, the latter an imp01tant food tree for nectarivorous and frugivorous birds. Scattered through the open woodland are solitary canopy-forest trees or small clumps of depauperate rainforest and these ar~ visited regularly by foraging flocks of pigeons, parrots and "­ honeyeaters. DESCRIPTION OF STUDY AREA The location of our study area, in which most observations were made, is shown in Figure I. Though selected because of local abundance of the two parrot species under study, the study area contains a good representation of habitats. An extensive stand of high canopy rainforest centered on the confluence of the West and Middle Claudie Rivers and Scrubby Creek is interrupted by the junction of the Portland Roads-Airfield and Portland Roads-Wenlock roads and we found the resultant forest edge habitat to be favoured by both rainforest and woodland birds. It was in this forest edge habitat that we set our mist nets. The north-eastern sector of the study area is largely open Eucalyptus woodland with some patches of depauperate rainforest and gallery forest fringing seasonal watercourses. LIST OF BIRDS Nomenclature in this list follows the RAOU Checklist of the Birds of Australia Part I 1975 and the RAOU Interim List of Australian Songbirds 1975. For emphasis subspecific names have been used to identify endemic subspecies that hitherto have been accorded specific status, e.g. Lovely Wren Malurus Iamberti amabilis. Cassowary Casuarius casuarius. At least three individuals, of which one was in immature plumage, were resident in a patch of rainforest about 8 km north of the airfield. Rarely, birds were encountered in other rainforest areas. Birds were observed singly, always while crossing the road or standing by the roadside. In the rainforest they were very difficult to see, but on a few occasions we heard the sound of their walking on the leaf litter of the forest floor; they sound remarkably like a man walking. It could be expected that the presence of wild pigs in plague proportions would bring about a decline in the Cassowary population due to food competition, so it was heartening to see these birds. Lesser Frigate-bird Fregata ariel. Occasional birds were ob­ served soaring high overhead on thermal currents. June Birds listed for Iron Range, Qld. 177 1978 ]

WEYMOUTH BAY

~(\\,).\\\ 1:.•~· 'l-1•~ · Island ot\estota\IOn •Restora tion Rock

Restoration Beach

Cape Griffith

\)lloyd Island

LLOYD BAY

(? •

Figure I. Locality map of the Iron Range district showing the study area centred on the confluence of the West and Middle Claudie Rivers and Scrubby Creek. Drawn by Mr. W. T. Cooper.

Crested Hawk A viceda subcristata. Surprisingly, this species was recorded only once; when a single bird was seen resting in the canopy of a tree in gallery forest along a seasonal watercourse. Black-breasted Kite Hamirostra melanosternon. One record; at the time of our arrival a lone bird was seen flying low across the airfield. FORSHAW & MULLER [ Bird 178 Watcher

Brahminy Kite Haliastur indus. One pair was observed almost daily, often soaring over the rainforest area in which we were working. Most rainforest birds reacted with alarm calls, or by falling silent when these kites were overhead. Whistling Kite Haliastur sphenurus. A common species in all habitats, often observed soaring high overhead. Grey Goshawk Accipiter novaehollandiae. Both the grey and white phases were fairly common in rainforest and dry sclerophyll forest. Brown Goshawk Accipiter fasciatus. Observed frequently at a distance, on the edges of rainforest. It was quite shy and difficult to approach. Collared Sparrowhawk Accipiter cirrocephalus. One pair was observed regularly on the edge of one small patch of rainforest. At a distance this species is difficult to differentiate from A. fascia­ tus, but we found this pair to be noticeably more confiding than · the goshawks. Red Goshawk Erythrotriorchis radiatus. Recorded once. Excel­ lent views were obtained of a bird as it sailed low over open woodland and along the edge of riverine rainforest. This is a surprisingly large hawk and its long yellow legs are very conspicuous. Wedge-tailed Eagle Aquila audax. On four or five occasioqs single birds were seen sitting quietly in a tree adjacent to the road"' They displayed no alarm when approached, so it would seem that in the district birds of prey are not persecuted as they are in much of Australia. Brown Falcon Falco berigora. Present in all habitats but not common. One bird in immature plumage allowed members of our party to approach within 10 m and observe it for several minutes. Scrubfowl Megapodius freycinet. Numerous in most tracts of rainforest and overall far more common than the Brush Turkey Alectura lathami. They are more often heard than seen, and when disturbed, often fly into the topmost branches of forest trees. An observer sitting quietly can hear the birds scratching and walking about in the leaf litter on the forest floor and in this way their activities can be monitored. A large nesting mound, more than 8 m high and some 15 m across, was found on the bank of the Claudie River; the species breeds in the wet season, so this mound was not active. It could be expected that the numerous pigs in the area must present a threat to the nesting of both the Scrubfowl and Brush Turkey, and this underlines the urgency for an investi­ gation into the effects pigs are having on the natural environment. Both Megapodius and Alectura appear to be sedentary and territorial; we always found birds in the same areas where they appeared to follow daily routines. We obtained no evidence of interactions between the two megapodes. Brush Turkey Alectura lathami. Common in some rainforest areas, but showing a marked preference for the wet areas along June Birds listed for Iron Range, Qld. 179 1978 ]

Figure 2. Eucalyptus-Melaleuca woodland with Jmperata ground cover; this is the dominant vegetation community in the Iron Range district. Plate 30 Photo by Dr. W. Lavarack

watercourses. The Iron Range district is inhabited by a distinct subspecies, A .l. purpureicollis; adult males have vivid pink wattles on the neck, as opposed to the yellow wattles of the nominate subspecies. Brown Quail Coturnix australis. Pairs or single birds were occasionally flushed in blady grass Imperata cylindrica areas; we rarely entered this habitat, so the species is undoubtedly more abundant than is indicated by our observations. Red-backed Button-quail Turnix maculosa. Regularly flushed from the borders of blady grass areas; the species was readily distinguished from the Brown Quail by its smaller size and brighter upperparts. Little Whimbrel Numenius minutus. On three successive days in early October a flock of about twenty birds frequented a freshly-mowed sward adjoining the airport runway. Grey-tailed Tattler Tringa brevipes. At Restoration Beach a pair was sighted on estuarine mudflats. Eastern Golden Plover Pluvialis dominica. On October 19 a flock of fifteen to twenty birds, all in eclipse plumage, arrived at the airport where they remained during the rest of our stay. They favoured the regularly-mowed sward surrounding the runway. FORSHAW & MULLER Bird 180 [ Watcher

Masked Plover V anellus miles. A flock of up to twenty birds was always present at the airfield, often near our quarters, but the species was seldom sighted elsewhere. Bush Stone-curlew Burhinus magnirostris. Several of these birds lived on or near the airfield. They were not sighted during the day, but at night on mowed and burned areas they were observed by torchlight. At our quarters their loud calls were heard through­ out the night. Beach Stone-curlew Burhinus neglectus. A pair was recorded at Restoration Beach. Red-crowned Pigeon Ptilinopus regina. We found this species to be uncommon, and on very few occasions was it seen feeding in rainforest trees. P. superbus was much more common. Our observations are in contrast with previous reports from Iron Range, when the reversed situation was found. Purple-crowned Pigeon Ptilinopus superbus. This species was abundant in all rainforest areas, and was often found in open woodland. Numbers were observed daily feeding in the treetops on berries, fruits and figs, and several were captured in mist nets. Both Ptilinopus species are difficult to observe in the high canopy, but at times they can be detected by noticing their movements among shadows cast on the ground and then locating them with binoculars. One brilliantly-coloured male was found on the ground, so fat and stupefied from over-feeding that it could not fly; it was held for three days to fast and then released. While in captivity this bird sat quietly during the day, but at night became active and tried to escape; such behaviour was interesting in view of the reports of nocturnal migration by the species. Wompoo Pigeon Ptilinopus magnificus. We found this species to be fairly common, but it was difficult to observe, being general­ ly detected by its call. It frequently left the rainforest to feed on fruits of the nonda plum Parinarium nonda, a tree irregularly distributed through the open woodland. Unlike P. regina and P. superbus, the Wompoo Pigeon seldom climbs about in parrot­ like fashion, preferring to feed while sitting quietly in the thicker foliage of the crown of a tree. Torres Straits Pigeon Ducula spilorrhoa. An abundant bird in the area. They roosted, and reportedly nested, on small ­ covered offshore islands to the south-east. On Restoration Beach, at mid-morning a small party was seen coming in from Lloyd Island; they flew low to the water, rising up over the seaboard dunes before disappearing behind the littoral vegetation. Early every morning, continuous small flocks were seen flying high overhead to the north-west to feed in rainforest; return flights every evening were also conspicuous. Flocks of up to twenty birds were observed feeding on unidentified fruits in the crowns of high rainforest trees, once on Schefflera fruits. Brown Pigeon Macropygia amboinensis. Common in all rain­ forest areas, mainly along the edges, but often seen in thick vegetation around the edges of clearings, where it fed extensively June Birds listed for Iron Range, Qld. 181 1978 ] on fruits of the sandpaper-leaf fig Ficus opposita. . Green-winged Pigeon Chalcophaps indica. We observed th1s species commonly in most rainforest areas, often on the ground. Like the Brown Pigeon it often came to the clearings to feed on the abundant fruits of the sandpaper-leaf fig Ficus opposita. Bar-shouldered Dove humeralis. Surprisingly, this species was not common; small flocks were seen occasionally in savannah woodland near the airfield, but birds were not recorded in rainforest. On prior visits to Iron Range, one of us (Forshaw) found this dove to be far more widespread and more abundant. Peaceful Dove Geopelia striata. Not widely distributed or common, but small parties were always present in woodland savannah near the airfield. Rainbow Lorikeet Trichoglossus haematodus. Extremely abun­ dant in all areas. Flocks of more than thirty birds were often observed, and heard, feeding in flowering eucalypts and rainforest trees. Marshall's Fig Parrot Psittaculirostris diophthalma. Study of this species was the primary object of our expedition, and a paper detailing our observations is in preparation. In October the species was nesting and toward the end of the month we observed pairs accompanied by one or two recently-fledged young. Breeding pairs maintained territories which seemed to be dependent on sufficient feeding trees. Feeding trees were invariably Ficus hispida, occasionally supplemented by other fruits. Ficus hispida grows along the edges of rainforest, in clearings in rainforest, and occasionally in open Melaleuca-Wormia woodland. The parrots fed on seeds of ripe figs and as long as ripe figs were available the birds continually returned to the same tree. Feeding trees were easily located by the large quantities of discarded debris, pieces of fruit and seed husks on the ground below. Fig Parrots were also seen feeding on Croton fruits, on fruits of sandpaper-leaf figs F. opposita and once on Eucalyptus blossoms. Several nests were found. They were in holes excavated by the birds in a decayed limb of a living or dead tree, at from 10 m to 25 m above the ground. One nest, which we examined, contained a chick and an addled egg. Palm Cockatoo Probosciger aterrimus. Pairs or small flocks were common in most areas, particularly in woodland near the airfield, but they were also prevalent in rainforest, especially in the middle of the day when they were obviously sheltering from the heat. Birds often congregated in swampy areas where Pandanus palms grew, the fruits of these trees being a favourite food. Ripe fruits are bright orange in colour and have an oily, but pleasant odour; the fibrous flesh covering the husk is eaten by Palm Cockatoos and Eclectus Parrots, and on the ground is consumed by pigs, marsupials, rodents and cassowaries. On the ground Palm Cockatoos cracked open the old, extremely hard pods to extract the kernels. Small parties were often observed feeding on fruits of the nonda tree Parinarium nonda. On October 6, at approximately 0700 hours, seven birds were observed feeding in 182 FORSHAW & MULLER Bird [ Watcher

one nonda tree; the cockatoos showed surprising agility as they clambered about on the extremities of branches, often stretching out and down to get at fruits, which are then held in the foot while the bill is used to split them open along the small axis and extract the seeds. During October pairs were seen investigating prospective nesting hollows, but it would appear that laying did not commence until later. From observations on captive birds we know that the incubation period is at least 31 days and the chick remains in the nest for more than 90 days, so at Iron Range eggs would not hatch until the wet season is well under way. Sulphur-crested Cockatoo Cacatua galerita. Flocks were com­ mon near the airfield. The species seemed to prefer dry wood­ land, but occasionally pairs were recorded in rainforest. Eclectus Parrot Eclectus roratus. Single birds or pairs ranged from rainforest areas to open woodland, often near the airfield. Females were seldom seen, but solitary males were often en­ countered and generally they emitted incessant alarm calls when disturbed, thereby suggesting that nesting females may have been nearby. In addition to feeding in rainforest they often came into open woodland to feed in nonda trees Parinarium nonda and Pandanus palms. One male flew into a mist net, set only 1 m from the ground near a Pandanus palm; one of us (Muller) has had considerable experience in handling living examples of other subspecies and, on handling this bird, was impressed by its obviously larger size. At Iron Range this appears to be the only species to suffer greatly from nest robbing by bird trappers. All conspicuous nesting trees near roads had in their trunks a number of iron pegs, obviously driven in to give access to the nesting hollows. Some nesting hollows in these trees were occupied by birds during October. Red-cheeked Parrot Geoffroyus geoffroyi. Pairs or small parties of up to five birds were observed regularly through the rainforest . areas, often flying overhead when they could be readily identified by their call notes. Occasionally they were seen feeding, always in the topmost branches of rainforest trees, apparently on blos­ soms, buds and fmits. They were not abundant in our area, but local residents claimed that they are more numerous in the and also further north on the Pascoe River. This was in marked contrast to their abundance as recorded by Forshaw on previous visits in 1961 and 1966 (see Forshaw, 1969); we suspect that the exceptionally dry weather may have forced the birds to retreat to rainforests bordering the major watercourses. An active nest was found in an isolated patch of rainforest. The nest tree was situated about 25 m in from the rainforest perimeter, and the nest was approximately 15 m from the ground, excavated in a broken limb facing south. The nest was kept under observation during October, and then removed on October 31 June Birds listed for Iron Range, Qld. 183 1978 ]

Figure 3. Gallery rainforest along a seasonal watercourse traversing open woodland; this forest, often only a few trees in width, is an important flyway for rainforest birds. Plate 31 Photo by Dr. W. Lavarack

and the three chicks taken for further study at Taronga Zoo. The nest was in a hole excavated in the end of the broken limb. The entrance was oval-shaped, measuring 85 mm x 102 mm. It was approximately 45 em in depth with a nesting chamber about 120 mm in diameter, the bottom of which was covered with chewed wood. The entrance tunnel twisted clockwise so that the nest chamber could not be seen from the entrance hole, even with the aid of a torch. On every observation in October the female was present in the nest. Hearing our footsteps on the forest litter she would come to the entrance hole and watch our approach. She was fed by the male who would come, very furtively, to an adjacent tree and there call to bring her out of the nest; the male was never observed in the nesting tree. On removal, the three chicks were estimated ~o be approximately three weeks old. Their development and moult sequence was monitored at the zoo. Pairs were also observed inspecting prospective nesting sites, an activity that was accompanied by much tail-wagging and excited display on the part of the males. This would suggest that the species has a prolonged breeding season and there may be little synchronization in the reproductive cycles of breeding pairs in any one locality. 184 FORSHAW & MULLER Bird [ W atcher

Pheasant Coucal Centropus phasianinus. A common species in grassed areas. Birds were regularly seen crossing the road, particu­ larly in the early morning and late afternoon. Papuan Frogmouth Podargus papuensis. Observed on occasions at night, particularly in open Meleleuca forest beside the airfield road. Excellent views were obtained of one bird d ~s turbed from its daytime roost. Owlet-Nightjar Aegotheles cristatus. This species is probably plentiful in the Iron Range region, but its presence was overlooked until one bird was captured at night in a mist net set in open Eucalyptus woodland. Nocturnal birds and bats were conspicuous in this habitat, but we lacked adequate equipment for identifica­ tion. Mist nets were rarely set at night because invariably nectar­ feeding bats were caught and these were difficult to remove from the net. White-throated Nightjar Caprimulgus mystacalis. A common species in some open forest areas, particularly near watercourses. Often flushed from the road at dusk and during the night. Large-tailed Nightjar Caprimulgus macrurus. This species also was regularly flushed from the road at night, but was less abundant than C. mystacalis. A nest containing two eggs was found among leaf litter ap­ proximately 7 m in from the perimeter of an isolated patch of rainforest. This nest was under intermittent observation throughout the month of October and neither egg had hatched prior to our departure, so presumably the species has a long incubation period. Grey Swiftlet Collocalia terraereginae. Small flocks were ob­ served daily hunting insects above the airfield. Azure Ceyx azureus. This species inhabits all watercourses flowing through rainforest. No more than two were seen in any one area, strongly suggesting that pairs or individuals had established breeding territories. On a few occasions birds were observed catching small fish, but generally they were shy and moved away when approached. Little Kingfisher Ceyx pusillus. Recorded only once; a single bird was seen briefly in mangroves at the mouth of Packer's Creek, · near Restoration Beach. Laughing Dacelo novaeguineae. Singly or in pairs, this species was occasionally observed and heard in open wood­ land, especially near the airfield. Blue-winged Kookaburra Dacelo leachii. Abundant in all open woodland areas. macleayii. Very common in open woodland and cleared pasture areas. Pairs were frequently ob­ served in courtship display and investigating arboreal termitaria, presumably as nesting sites. Halcyon sancta. Recorded only once when a bird was captured in a mist net. Mangrove Kingfisher Halcyon chloris. Recorded only once when a single bird was observed in mangroves at the mouth of June Birds listed for Iron Range, Qld. 185 1978 ]

Packer's Creek, near Restoration Beach. On previous visits by Forshaw in November 1961 and January 1966 the species was seen frequently in seabord habitats. Lesser Yellow-billed Kingfisher torotoro. Pairs were present in most rainforest areas. The birds were very difficult to see as they sat quietly in the lower stages of rainforest, often near the ground and in shaded positions, but their distinctive call notes attracted attention. Rainbow Bee-eater Merops ornatus. In early October flocks moving south were seen regularly; later in the month they became less common. Dollarbird Eurystomus orienta/is. First recorded on October 6 and with increasing frequency thereafter, presumably as the result of migration south from New Guinea, though some birds could be resident in the area. Noisy Pitta Pitta versicolor. This species was not recorded until October 23, when individuals were sighted in three different areas of rainforest almost simultaneously. Richard's Pipit Anthus novaeseelandiae. Not common, but birds were always present in the mowed sward surrounding the airstrip. Black-faced Cuckoo-shrike Coracina novaehollandiae. A com­ mon species, especially wherever there were large eucalypts in open woodland. White-bellied Cuckoo-shrike Coracina papuensis. Observed regularly in open woodland, often in the company of C. novaehol­ landiae, though it was Jess common than that species. White-winged sueurii. Observed occasionally in dry open forest, never in rainforest. Varied Triller Lalage leucomela. A common species inhabiting the edges of rainforest, though seldom seen in the interior of dense rainforest. Often observed clinging to treetrunks near the ground, presumably searching for insects. Yellow Flycatcher Microeca griseoceps. Not common. Pairs or individuals were seen occasionally, always in dry woodland where it adjoined rainforest. Lemon-breasted Flycatcher Microeca flavigaster. Abundant in most open areas. On October 6 a nest with female incubating was found about 10 m up in a eucalypt standing in pasture some 60 m from the edge of rainforest; the nest was similar to that of the Willy Wagtail though decorated on the outside with pieces of bark, and it was placed on a horizontal branch not in a fork. We noticed considerable individual variation in the intensity of yellow on the underparts, which initially led to confusion with the Grey Whistler Pachycephala simplex. White-faced Robin Tregellasia leucops. A common species in all rainforest areas, but not present in other habitats. One of the few birds that occurred in the lower stages of the interior of rainforest. It frequently clung sideways on tree-trunks, like a 186 FORSHA W & MULLER Bird [ Watcher woodpecker, and searched for insects under lichen or in crevices in the bark. It is a fearless, inquisitive bird and often came to investigate our presence. We netted a young bird in immature plumage, possibly having left the nest in September. Grey Whistler, Pachycephala simplex. An abundant species that was seen primarily on the edges of rainforest along clearings and particularly along the road. Much time was spent in the middle and upper stories of the forest, apparently hawking for insects. Our lack of experience with this species led us to initially confuse it with the Lemon-breasted Flycatcher. Rufous Whistler Pachycephala rufiventris. Widespread in dry sclerophyiJ, Melaleuca woodland, and in heathland at Tozer's Gap. Golden Whistler Pachycephala pectoralis. Golden-type Whistlers were seen occasionally in the forest canopy. We initially regarded these as the Mangrove Golden Whistler Pachycephala melanura because P. pectoralis had not previously been recorded at Iron Range. However a netted female lacked the golden underparts of P. me/anura and also had a buff vent. There appeared to be little doubt to us that it was a female of P. pectoralis. No coloured males, however, were captured for comparison. It should be noted also that the habitat in the rainforest is not that favoured by P. me/anura. Rufous Shrike-thrush Colluricincla megarhyncha. Abundant in all rainforest areas, where it preferred the lower stages, particularly along the forest edge. This species is noticeably smaller with a much more refined bill and skull structure than in other members of the . Yellow-breasted Boatbill Machaerirhynchus flaviventer. Probab­ ly more common than our records indicate. Observed occasionally along the edges of rainforest and in the canopy where detection was difficult. Three were captured in mist nets set in rainforest near Ficus trees; a very striking bird when observed at close hand. Frilled Monarch telescopthalmus. Pairs were scattered through most rainforest areas, and at times were seen in open woodland adjacent to rainforest. A bird in immature plumage flew into a mist net; the shoulders and back were mottled brown instead of black. Presumably, this species was breeding and occupying territories. Broad-billed Flycatcher ruficollis. Seen only twice, in the same clearing in rainforest; reputed to be primarily a mangrove species. This bird, a female, was netted for positive identification. Leaden Flycatcher Myiagra rubecula. Only one record; a female was observed at the edge of the rainforest. Shining Flycatcher Myiagra alecto. Pairs held territories scat­ tered along the river, under the rainforest canopy. The birds perched near the ground, often over water, and hawked for insects just above the water surface. This species often bathed during the mid-day heat. Rufous Rhipidura rufifrons. Not common; individuals were seen occasionally in dense rainforest. June Birds listed for Iron Range, Qld. 187 1978 ]

Figure 4. Edge of rainforest bordering open woodland; this ecotone habitat is extremely rich in birdlife. Plate 32 Ph oto by Dr. W. Lavarack

Northern Fantail Rhipidura rufiventris. A moderately common species showing a preference for dry sclerophyll. Tawny Grassbird Megalurus timoriensis. Observed only twice in dense blady grass fmperata cylindrica in clearings in forest; the species is difficult to observe and may be quite common in the area. Cisticola Cisticola sp. Cisticolas were resident in a patch of undergrowth and blady grass bordering a drain near the Iron Range-Portland Roads road, and birds were seen regularly, often at close quarters. We could not be certain of identification without collecting a specimen. Lovely Wren Malurus Iamberti amabilis. One of us (Muller) was particularly interested in this species so paid special attention to it and the areas where it occurred. Small flocks were often encountered along densely vegetated edges of rainforest. One flock contained five coloured males. Flocks were always seen in the same general areas and presumably maintained territories. In foraging groups they ranged along the rainforest edge, seldom more than 75 m into the interior, where there was no suitable low, dense vegetation. A pair with three recently-fledged young were observed on October 23; the young birds were duller versions 189 FORSHAW & MULLER Bird [ Watcher of the distinctly-plumaged female and their tails were less than half normal length. The adult male resembles the Purple-backed Wren M. l. assimilis, but the tail is very dark blue with a broad white tip, while the violet on the head and mantle is paler and quite diagnostic. One flock contained a bird which appeared to be a male in eclipse plumage; unexpectedly it did not resemble the female, but was similar to a male M. l. assimilis in eclipse plumage, except for the white-tipped blue tail. It is hoped that captive birds will provide more information on plumage changes,. Red-backed Wren Malurus melanocephalus. Family parties were regularly seen in certain blady grass areas, where they seemed to maintain clearly defined territories. Tropical Scrub Wren Sericornis beccarii. Pairs or parties of up to six birds were observed in thick vegetation along the edges of rainforest and in the rainforest interior on or near the ground; they were rather timid. One bird captured in a mist net appeared to be in immature plumage, possibly having left the nest in September. Fairy Warbler Gerygone palpebrosa. Several birds of this genus were usually present in the rainforest canopy. Contrary to expecta­ tions there was considerable overlap in habitats frequented by this species and G. olivacea; positive identification from birds captured in mist nets established that both species occurred along the edges of rainforest. The two species were difficult to separate in the treetops and there was a confusing similarity to the Green-backed Honeyeater. White-throated Warbler Gerygone oli vacea. Present in the canopy along the edges of rainforest, but it was easily confused with the female G. palpebrosa. Varied (Striated) Sittella Daphoenositta chrysoptera. Small flocks seen occasionally in dry woodland, rarely in trees other than eucalypts. Helmeted Frim·bird Philemon buceroides. Found only in dry Eucalyptus woodland along the road to Portland Roads. Noisy Friarbird Philemon corniculatus. The common friarbird in rainforest and in most dry sclerophyll areas; its abundance and numerical dominance over P. buceroides surprised us. Difficult to detect in rainforest, but it was always very vocal. Tawny-breasted Honeyeater Xanthotis flaviventer. Moderately common in all rainforest areas, where it preferred to feed in the forest canopy. This species differs from most Australian honey­ eaters in its stocky, heavy body shape, similar to that of some New Guinea species. Yellow-spotted Honeyeater Meliphaga notata. One of the most common birds in rainforest areas where it was regularly caught in mist nets. Two birds in immature plumage, possibly having left the nest in September, were captured in a mist net. The remark in Slater's Field Guide () that this species has brown eyes is applicable only to immatures - adults have light bluish- June Birds listed for Iron Range, Qld. 190 1978 ] grey eyes, similar to those of M. gracilis. Graceful Honeyeater Meliphaga gracilis. Common in rainforest where it was often observed in the lower stages. This species and the Yell ow-spotted Honeyeater were the birds most frequently caught in the mist nets thus affording us an opportunity to examine distinguishing features. Yellow Honeyeater Lichenostomus flavus. Not common; ob­ served only occasionally, generally in small patches of rainforest surrounded by dry sclerophyll and following a seasonal water­ course. Green-backed Honeyeater Glycichaera fallax. This species was found only in the rainforest canopy where it was very difficult to detect or to distinguish from Gerygone sp. One was captured in a mist net, set in r

28. The two species maintained perceptible separation while moving through the ground cover. Shining Starling Aplonis metallica. Small flocks were present in all areas of rainforest, where they fed high in the canopy; surprisingly, one bird was caught in a mist net, set lqw in rainforest. These starlings, together with lorikeets and , were attracted to the large red blossoms of a particular rainforest tree that was flowering profusely at the time of our visit. One enormous tree beside the road near the West Claudie River-crossing was occupied by a nesting colony of which about fifty birds were always present and attending to nests. European Starling Sturnus vulgaris. A lone bird was present on the mowed surrounds of the airfield where it often associated with Magpie-larks. Local residents could not identify this bird and knew that it was strange to the area. Yellow Figbird Sphecotheres viridis flaviventris. An abundant, vocal and conspicuous species found primarily in rainforest, but also at other times in dry sclerophyll. Yellow Oriole Oriolus flavocinctus. Noted on a few occasions, only in rainforest where it kept to the upper stages, usually in dense shadows. Olive-backed Oriole Oriolus sagittatus. Not common, being observed only occasionally in rainforest areas. Spangled Dicrurus hottentottus. During early October flocks of up to twenty birds were encountered, mainly in rain­ forest; they appeared to be moving south. Later in the month their numbers greatly diminished. We found it quite unusual to see drongos in flocks, as farther south they are more solitary. Spotted Catbird Ailuroedus malanotis. Present in most rainforest areas, but more often heard than seen; also recorded feeding in Ficus, Wormia and Melaleuca trees in open woodland. Two were captured in mist nets, possibly while trying to get at birds already caught; Diamond (1972) found that in New Guinea this species readily attacked birds and bats caught in mist nets. Magnificent Riflebird Ptiloris magnificus. Abundant and very . vocal, singing males being recorded from clumps of trees with only the barest minimum of rainforest elements. They are birds of the mid to upper stages of the forest and they keep to stout limbs in the centre of trees, thus making observation difficult; the loud, whistling notes are distinctive. We observed them feeding on small fruits, figs, blossoms and probing the bark on treetrunks for insects. Both sexes regularly bathed in the river during the heat of the day. Trumpet Manucode Manucodia keraudrenii. Individuals ob­ served in one patch of rainforest, where they kept to dense F igure 5. Interior of rainforest bordering a watercourse in the Iron Range district; scrubby undergrowth is generall y restricted to areas where the overhead canopy is in terrupted. Characteristicall y few birds occur in the interior of rainforest. Plate 33 Photo by Dr. W . Lavarack 193 FORSHAW & MULLER Bird [ W atcher shaded foliage in the canopy. This species prefers tall trees adjacent to watercourses. Magpie-lark cyanoleuca. A flock frequented the mowed surrounds of the airfield - not seen elsewhere. Black Butcherbird Cracticus qaoyi. Observed on only two or three occasions in clearings in rainforest; it is more a bird of the mangroves. Torresian Crow Corvus orru. A few birds usually present at the airfield.

ACKNOWLEDGEMENTS We thank Messrs P. Haycock and K. Mays for assistance in the field. The Commonwealth Department of Transport provided accommodation at Iron R ange Airfield, while the resident Civil Aviation Officer, Mr. L. King, assisted with ground transport and acted as our local guide. Special thanks are extended to the Queensland National Parks and Wildlife Service for granting the necessary permits and to their resident officer at Cairns, Mr. M. Weaver, who advised us on local conditions and facilitated shipment of live birds back to Taronga Park Zoo. During an emergency created by illness of Mr. Forshaw, excellent assistance was given by Mr. J. Cassidy, Manager of Cairns Airport, and by medical staff at Cairns Base Hospital. Financial support for the expedition was given to Taronga Park Zoo, Sydney, by Broken Hill Proprietary Company Ltd. We are especially grateful to Ansett Airways Ltd. for assistance with air fares and for logistic support. Drs. John Calaby and Glen Storr read sections of the draft manuscript and offered useful criticisms. Mr. Norman Favaloro confirmed our identification of the eggs of Caprimulgus macrurus. Habitat photographs were provided by Dr. W. Lavarack of the Queensland National Parks and Wildlife Service. Mr. William T. Cooper prepared the map. Typing of the manuscript, including drafts, was handled by Mrs. Una Porter.

REFERENCES Brass, L. J., 1953. Results of the Archbold Expeditions, No. 68: summary of the 1948 Cape York (Australia) Expedition. Bull. Amer. Mus. Nat. Hist. 102 (2) : 135-206. Diamond, J. M., 1972. Avifauna of the Eastern Highlands of New Guinea. Publs Nuttall orn. Club, no. 12: 1-438 (347). Forshaw, J. M., 1969. Australian Parrots, pp. xiv + 306. Lans­ downe Press, Melbourne. June SMITH, et al. White-rumped Sandpiper 194 1978 ]

Johnson, H. R ., and N. Hooper, 1973. The birds of the Iron Range area of Cape York Peninsula. Aust. Bird Watcher 5 (3): 80-95. Kikkawa, J., 1976. The Birds of Cape York Peninsula, Part I. Sunbird 7 ( 2) : 25-41. Roberts, G. J., 1975. Additional species from the Iron Range area of Cape York Peninsula. Aust. Bird Watcher 6 ( 4): 127-128. Stanton, J. P., 1976, National Parks for Cape York Peninsula. Australian Conservation Foundation, Melbourne.

A second Australian record of the White-rumped Sandpiper. By FRED T. H. SMITH, 71 Cobden St., Kew, Victoria, 3101, R. J. SWINDLEY, 25 Ryland Ave., Croydon,Victoria, 3136, and J. G. BARKLA, 4 Crest Grove, Nunawading, Victoria, 3131. An account is given of the second sight record for Australia of the White-rumped Sandpiper Calidris fuscicollis. Two of the observers, Smith and Swindley, have had considerable field ex­ perience with migratory waders - that group of birds in the Order Charadriiformes, which, together with the plovers and sandpipers, includes birds as diverse as the jacanas, gulls and skuas. Smith and Swindley were in the party of three observers responsible for the first Australian record of the White-rumped Sandpiper (Smith 1976) and comparison is made between the field notes taken at the time of that record and those taken at the time of this second record. Comparison is also made with the Curlew Sandpiper Calidris ferruginea, the locally common bird closest to the White-rumped Sandpiper in general appearance. The circumstances of the second record and general observations. At 1420 hours summer time on January 9, 1977 we were enjoying the field observation of good numbers of migratory waders and other species on "The Spit" at the Melbourne and Metropolitan Board of Works Farm, Werribee, Victoria, when a White-rumped Sandpiper was noted feeding among Curlew Sand­ pipers and Red-necked Stints C. ruficollis. We all located the bird through 10 x 50 binoculars and agreed as to its identification. Field notes were commenced immediately but the opportunity to observe feeding behaviour was postponed as the North Ameri­ can bird left the mixed group of its Palaearctic neighbours and moved a few metres to a shelly sand-bar to rest.