Lyrebird Tales

Volume 30 Number 2 June 2021 BirdLife Yarra Valley Newsletter

Dead Duck or playing dead? by Valerie Fowler

Wood Duck family photo © Valerie Fowler

Playing dead or Tonic Immobility is a behaviour used by some animals and birds in response to an extreme or Wood Duck photo © Valerie Fowler perceived threat by a predator. The bird or animal becomes In early October 2018, I was walking past a small farm dam temporally paralysed and unresponsive to external stimuli. near Wedderburn when I noticed what appeared to be a dead Many birds go limp when caught by a predator but then Wood Duck lying on the water’s edge. This was strange as it instantaneously come back to life in an attempt to escape. was absent when I walked past some minutes before. A Tonic Immobility has been viewed in some ducks, used as a closer inspection revealed that the duck was indeed alive but defence mechanism when faced with imminent death but are in a frozen state, playing dead for some reason and could not often still eaten. be roused. Contents

1. Dead Duck or playing dead

2. Minutes of AGM 2021. Committee. What Bird is That?

3. Nest boxes put into position. Report: How & where to look for birds. Bird survey at Coranderrk Station, Wandoon Estate.

4. More bird species in their vicinity increase life satisfaction of Europeans as much as higher income. Platform overlooking Lilydale Sewerage Farm.

5-8. A Tale of 3 Toucans and a Bald Eagle

8. Interesting Sightings. Photo update at Lillydale Lake. Wood Duck photo © Valerie Fowler 9-15. Reports of meetings and Outings

I returned to the dam to show my husband thinking the duck 16. Calendar of Events was sick or injured and to my surprise there was the Wood Duck and its mate with 6 chicks tucked under the grasses at the edge of the water. They were later seen crossing the road into Doug’s property. Lyrebird Tales

BirdLife Yarra Valley Annual General Meeting

Minutes of Annual General Meeting held on Thursday 8 April, 2021, at 7.40 p.m.

In the Badger Creek Hall, Badger Creek Road, Badger Creek.

The Convener took the chair and welcomed the sixteen members present.

Apologies: Jim McMinn

1.It was Moved Doug Pocock Seconded Michael Feller “that the Minutes of the Annual General Meeting held on 14 May, 2019, be confirmed” Carried

Note due to COVID restrictions there was no AGM in 2020. Minutes for the 2019, AGM were published in the June, 2019, Lyrebird Tales.

2.The Treasurer’s Report for the financial year ending 31/12/2020 was distributed. It was Moved Ray McMahon Seconded Peter Fowler “that the Treasurer’s Report be accepted” Carried

3. The Convener’s Report is not included as it was previously sent out by email 23/02/2021

4. Election of Office-bearers and members of the Committee for 2021-2022

Office bearers

It was Moved Margaret O’Connell Seconded Ray McMahon “that Warren Cousins be elected as Convener” Carried

It was Moved Warren Cousins Seconded Valerie Fowler “that Manfred Hennig be elected as Deputy Convener” Carried

It was Moved Warren Cousins Seconded Michael Feller “that Alma Mitchell be elected as Secretary” Carried

It was Moved Graeme George Seconded Doug Pocock “that Michael Feller be elected as Treasurer” Carried

Committee

It was Moved Valerie Fowler Seconded Warren Cousins “that Doug Pocock be elected as a member of the Committee

Carried

It was Moved Margaret O’Connell Seconded Warren Cousins “that Jan Llewelyn be elected as a member of the Committee”

Carried

5. Any other business:

Four signatories are currently registered for the Bank Accounts, Warren Cousins, Michael Feller, Manfred Hennig and Alma Mitchell. Two signatures are required by the Bank for each transaction.

As there was no other business the meeting closed at 7.59 p.m

BirdLife Australia Yarra Valley Branch What Bird is That?

P.O. Box 1172, Healesville Vic. 3777

email: [email protected]

Committee

Convener: Warren Cousins

Deputy-Convener: Manfred Hennig

Secretary: Alma Mitchell

Treasurer: Michael Feller

Conservation Officer: Michael Feller

Other Members: Jan Llewelyn. Doug Pocock Answer on page 15

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Bird nest boxes finally put into position How and where to look for birds in the Yarra Valley area – talk and walk by By Michael Feller Manfred Hennig, 17 and 20 March, 2021

Report by Michael Feller

A well-attended talk on a Wednesday evening was given by Manfred on behalf of Birdlife Yarra Valley and Chum Creek Landcare. Although the talk was aimed at less experienced birdwatchers, most people who attended had had some birdwatching experience. The talk was followed by a walk the following Saturday morning. The events did publicise our Healesville – Chum Creek area bird ID brochures, many of which were distributed, and did lead to some sales of our Birds of the Yarra Catchment book.

Manfred described the different bird habitats occurring in the region, important places to observe birds in each of the habitats, and some of the birds to be found in each habitat. A highlight was a playing of the calls of each of the many birds as the bird was described. Manfred emphasised that identification of a bird was aided by knowing exactly where that bird was seen – on the ground or high in a tree canopy, for example. Manfred and Margaret were thanked for putting together a very informative presentation.

The walk on Saturday attracted 11 mostly experienced birdwatchers with Manfred being assisted by Tom Weber and Michael Feller. In perfect sunny weather the small group walked around the Maroondah Reservoir park, encountering 25 bird species, nearly all in the area near the creek in and around the picnic area. No unusual birds were encountered, although Gang Gang Cockatoos and Golden Whistlers were nice sights. An Eastern Whipbird was heard, but not seen, as usual.

Powerful Owl nest Box being put into position in Bird Survey at Coranderrk Station, Toolangi photo © Michael.Feller Wandoon Estate 14 April 2021 Birdlife Yarra Valley had 10 nest boxes made by the Toolangi Men’s Shed, with Manfred Hennig in charge, a couple of years By Graeme George ago. We were able to get 4 of these erected with minimal Manfred, Michael and I spent a few hours at the Coranderrk cost soon thereafter, but the remaining 6, including 2 large Station, Wandoon Estate, this morning. We saw 37 species. Powerful Owl boxes, went into storage. The committee decided to spend some money to get the remaining 6 boxes Highlights were: A party of 3 Crested Shrike-tits foraging in put into position. We got a suitable quote from a reputable the understorey, 7 or 8 Dusky Wood-swallows, 6 - 8 White- company and the remaining 6 boxes were finally put into naped Honeyeaters repeatedly dipping into the Yarra from position on April 28th, in time for birds to check out for the overhanging shrubbery either bathing or catching insects, 2021 nesting season. about 70 Welcome Swallows massing along a fence, possibly gathering before heading north for the winter. We now have 4 boxes, including one for Powerful Owls, on a property at Badger Creek. The 5th box for this property was We also had good views of Grey Shrike Thrushes, Yellow- destroyed when the tree it was on collapsed. Two more boxes rumped Thornbills, Goldfinches, female Flame Robins and a are on a property at Chum Creek and the remaining 3, female Hardhead diving in a dam. including another one for Powerful Owls, are on a property at Toolangi. The boxes at Badger Creek and Chum Creek are on Trust for Nature covenanted areas. We await observations!

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More bird species in their vicinity increase life satisfaction of Europeans as much as higher income

A high biological diversity in our immediate vicinity is as important for life satisfaction as our income. These are the findings that scientists from Senckenberg, the German Centre for Integrative Biodiversity Research (iDiv), and the University of Kiel recently published in the journal “Ecological Economics.” For the first time, the researchers were able to show that all across Europe, the individual enjoyment of life is correlated to the number of bird species in one’s surroundings. An additional ten percent of bird species in the vicinity therefore increases the life satisfaction of Europeans at least as much as a comparable increase in income. Nature conservation thus constitutes an investment in human well-being, according to the researchers.

Under the current pandemic conditions, activities out in nature are a popular pastime. The beneficial effects of a diverse nature on people’s mental health have already been documented by studies on a smaller scale. Scientists of the Senckenberg Gesellschaft für Naturforschung, the iDiv, and the University of Kiel now examined for the first time whether a diverse nature also increases human well-being on a Europe-wide scale.

To this end, the researchers used the data from the “2012 European quality of Life Survey” to study the connection between the species diversity in their surroundings and the life satisfaction in more than 26,000 adults from 26 European countries. Species diversity was measured based on the diversity of avian species, as documented in the European breeding bird atlas.

“Europeans are particularly satisfied with their lives if their immediate surroundings host a high species diversity,” explains the study’s lead author, Joel Methorst, a Ph.D. student at the Senckenberg Biodiversity and Climate Research Centre, the iDiv, and the Goethe University in Frankfurt, and he continues, “According to our findings, the happiest Europeans are those who can experience numerous different bird species in their daily life, or who live in near-natural surroundings that are home to many species.”

Birds are well-suited as indicators of biological diversity, since they are among the most visible elements of the animate nature – particularly in urban areas. Moreover, their song can often be heard even if the bird itself is not visible, and most birds are popular and people like to watch them. But there is also a second aspect that affects life satisfaction: the surroundings. A particularly high number of bird species can be found in areas with a high proportion of near-natural and diverse landscapes that hold numerous greenspaces and bodies of water.

“We also examined the socio-economic data of the people that were surveyed, and, much to our surprise, we found that avian diversity is as important for their life satisfaction as is their income,” explains Prof. Dr. Katrin Böhning-Gaese, director of the Senckenberg Biodiversity and Climate Research Centre, professor at the Goethe University in Frankfurt am Main, and member of the iDiv. This result becomes particularly obvious when both values increase by ten percent. Fourteen additional bird species in the vicinity raise the level of life satisfaction at least as much as an extra 124 Euros per month in the household account, based on an average income of 1,237 Euro per month in Europe.

According to the study, a diverse nature therefore plays an important role for human well-being across Europe – even beyond its material services. At the same time, the researchers draw attention to impending health-related problems. “The Global Assessment 2019 by the World Biodiversity Council IPBES and studies of avian species in agricultural landscapes in Europe clearly show that the biological diversity is currently undergoing a dramatic decline. This poses the risk that human well-being will also suffer from an impoverished nature. Nature conservation therefore not only ensures our material basis of life, but it also constitutes an investment in the well-being of us all,” adds Methorst in conclusion.

Publication

Methorst, J. et al. (2020): The importance of species diversity for human well-being in Europe. Ecological Economics, doi: 10.1016/j.ecolecon.2020.106917

Platform overlooking Lilydale Sewerage Farm from the Yarra Valley Trail

photo ©Valerie Fowler 4 Lyrebird Tales Lyrebird Tales

A Tale of 3 Toucans and a Bald Eagle by Valerie Fowler

Over many years of observing birds I have noticed that a small percentage had deformed or damaged beaks which made it difficult for them to function properly. Many birds can adapt to minor injury or damage to their beaks and have learned ways of compensating for the loss. Bird beaks are made of keratin which allows the beak to continue growing as it is worn down by use and a minor injury may heal in time.

But what would happen in the case of a Toucan or Bald Eagle if it was missing a large section of its beak. How would an Eagle rip flesh from its prey or a Toucan feed itself or young? These birds and other species with similar injuries would suffer catastrophic consequences. In the past birds beaks which could not be repaired resulted in the bird being euthanazed.

Beaks are not just used for feeding but also for building nests, carving out nesting hollows and cleaning their feathers, all essential to their wellbeing. Bird beaks are often used in self defence whilst protecting their territory from other birds or their young from predators.

The significant beak injury in previous years to 3 Toucans and a Bald Eagle and the subsequent efforts to save the birds were certainly newsworthy.

Beauty the Bald Eagle Haliaeetus leucocephalus

In 2005 an emaciated Bald Eagle was found trying to scavenge near a landfill in Alaska; it had been illegally shot by a poacher. The top part of her beak had been hit by the bullet; the missing section included the sharp-tipped shape at the end which is used for tearing into food and to grip bites of food. The Eagle was also unable to drink. The raptor was rescued, named Beauty and taken to a wildlife rehabilitation shelter.

Grecia, a Black-mandibled Toucan Ramphastos ambiguus

In 2014 a young male Black-mandibled Toucan in Alajuela, Costa Rica, was brutally attacked by a group of youths who shattered most of the top part of its beak. It was rescued and taken to Zoo Ave, Central America’s largest animal rescue centre. The attack on the Toucan caught the media’s attention and images of the disfigured Toucan flew around the world on social media networks with subsequent protests and proposed legislation for better animal protection in Costa Rica. The incident even spurred Costa Rican President Luis Guillermo Solís to push forward an animal cruelty bill for passage by lawmakers. More than $10,449 was raised via crowd funding for Grecia’s treatment.

An un-named Green-billed Toucan Ramphastos dicolorus

In 2015 a Green-billed Toucan in Brazil lost a portion of its beak after flying into a window off the coast of São Paulo. It was then transported to a hospital in Jundiaí, where a group of six different experts worked to replace its beak.

Tieta a Channel-billed Toucan Ramphastos vitellinus

Meanwhile, in Rio de Janeiro, a female Channel-billed Toucan named Tieta had been rescued from an illegal animal market. A large section of the top section of the Toucan’s beak was broken. Tieta was taken to a government institute but could not be cared for 24 hours a day. A staff member at Instituto Vida Livre, an institute for releasing wild life back into nature, came to know of Tieta’s situation then decided to organize a team for recovering her beak.

A Toucan’s beak is lightweight and up to eight inches long with serrated edges. Toucans use their beaks to pluck food from trees and utilize the serrated edges of their bills to peel fruit which makes up the majority of their diet.

Toucans use their beaks to intimidate smaller birds and scare off predators such as jaguars. The male’s beak is also important when trying to attract a female. Toucan beaks are crucial for thermoregulation. By increasing blood flow to the bill it cools the bird, regulating body temperature. Toucan beaks are also used for vocalization.

It’s exceedingly difficult to create a prosthetic Toucan’s beak which is composed of minimal bone struts filled with spongy keratin which leaves it both strong and light.

Typically, in such a situation where the beak is broken, vets would attempt to create a prosthetic from the beak of an already deceased Toucan. This process had many problems, trying to find a deceased Toucan from the same species and a beak that would fit, as they come in different shapes and sizes. This is exactly what occurred with both Tieta and the Green- June 2021 5 Lyrebird Tales

billed Toucan in Brazil. The team tried to replace the beak of the Green-billed Toucan with the sterilized beak of a deceased Toucan, but it ultimately broke. The prosthesis can only be fitted by dentistry resin which is very fragile for holding the beak in place.

Modern Technology saves the birds

Now we enter the world of modern technology and 3D printing. It is well known that in recent years 3D scanning and printing has been used for many purposes such as model making and animation. Recently this technology has been used by animal vets, medical, dental and health professionals, but it has also been used, perhaps surprisingly, for making beak prosthetics for several injured birds.

The 3D Scanning Process: Specialized software drives the laser probe above the surface of the object. The laser probe projects a line of laser light onto the surface while 2 sensor cameras continuously record the changing distance and shape of the laser line in three dimensions (XYZ) as it sweeps along the object. The shots are then fused into a 3D model, an exact three-dimensional copy of the object, which you can rotate and view from different angles on your computer. Laser scanning technology allows you to create a digital model of virtually anything.

There are several types of 3D printing and the materials used are diverse: plastic, powders, resins, carbonfibre, graphite and grapheme, nitinol, paper, and metals including stainless steel, nickel, aluminium, titanium, gold and silver. Out of all the raw materials for 3D printing in use today, plastics are the most common. In most cases 3D printing is flexible, which then allows the user to determine the shape, texture and strength of the object.

The ability to scan and analyse a bird’s beak in high detail makes 3D scanning a hugely attractive proposition. It rapidly captures and provides highly accurate measurements and information which the user can fully visualize, utilize and modify data with specially designed computer software. The main difficulty doing a 3D scan was keeping the bird still whilst the scanning took place, due to the minimum amount of anaesthetic able to be used.

3D scanning coupled with 3D printing enables the production of a prosthetic beak that is almost identical to the bird’s original beak and increases the probability that the recipient will accept it. The prosthetic will be comfortable when attached and have maximum dexterity. From my research Beauty the Bald Eagle was the first bird to receive a prosthetic 3D printed beak.

Beauty the Bald Eagle

The first step to make a prosthetic beak for Beauty involved taking x-rays of the Bald Eagle’s skull and remaining beak. They took an impression of what remained of the beak, in a similar procedure to making a dental impression for fitting a crown, and compared the results with measurements taken from a beak of an uninjured female Bald Eagle. This was very difficult due to the unequal amount of damage to each side of Beauty’s beak; on one side the damage was far greater. All this had to be done whilst the bird was awake as it could not be anaesthetized. The movement of the tongue had to be taken into consideration when designing the prosthesis. Engineers designed a prototype prosthetic and 3D printed it, then tried it on Beauty and repeatedly made adjustments until it became a well-fitted prosthetic. In 2008 after 18 months of work the team attached the prosthetic made from nylon-based polymer using dental glue and screws. The team couldn’t intubate Beauty and put her on a mechanical ventilator during surgery which made the process difficult. The Bald Eagle took to its prosthetic immediately but unfortunately it only lasted a short time. Whilst her beak only grew less than 1.5 millimeters it was enough to displace the prosthetic beak. The prosthetic was not replaced and Beauty learnt to adapt to her injury while her own beak regenerated. She lives in captivity.

Experts said that designing and creating a 3D printed beak for an Eagle should be less of a challenge than designing a beak for a Toucan, due to the structure of the Toucan’s beak. From my research the Eagle’s prosthetic beak was the first of its kind.

The Green-billed Toucan

The process to create a 3D printed beak for the Green-billed Toucan relied on a 3D scan of another Toucan beak. The designer spent 2 weeks ensuring the final prosthetic beak would fit. The prosthetic was approximately 10 centimetres in total and weighed just a few grams. The prosthetic beak was made from Polyastic acid (PLA): One of the eco-friendliest options for 3D printers, polyastic acid is sourced from natural products like sugar cane and corn starch and is therefore biodegradable. The beak that fit the Toucan was cast with two centimetres inside and the underside was closed. The Green-billed Toucan could now feed itself which it was unable to do before.

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Teita the Channel-billed Toucan

Just 2 days after the surgery to attach the prosthetic beak to the Green-billed Toucan, a team 412 km away performed surgery to attach a 3D printed prosthetic beak to Teita, the Channel- billed Toucan. Neither team was aware that they both were performing the same operation. There were 15 people involved in the entire process. The 3D scans did not go well as the bird moved, so a combination which included photography was used during reconstruction. Unlike the Green-billed Toucan’s prosthesis, which was printed in PLA, the team opted for ABS, for its mechanical properties. (ABS is part of the thermoplastic polymers family, it is created from Acrylonitrile, Butadiene and Styrene polymers. It is a material commonly used in personal or household 3D printing.) The team applied a non-toxic enamel to give the beak a natural colour and they used a specially designed non-resin made from Mamona, a Brazilian tree, to seal the plastic and prevent the entry of bacteria and water. Teita can now eat normally and access a glandule close to her tail which produces oil for waterproofing her feathers.

Grecia the Black-mandibled Toucan

In Costa Rica in 2016, Grecia also received his 3D-printed beak. Whilst the open wound on Grecia’s broken beak hardened, the team at Rescate Wildlife Rescue Center, which included engineers, designers, dentists and ornithologists, researched Toucan beaks and worked on a design that would meet all the requirements of a Toucan’s beak. They studied the characteristics of real Toucan beaks and load factors provided by the experts in Costa Rica and received expert recommendations regarding the use of different 3D printers and materials. The design was complicated, as it needed to have both fixed and movable parts as well as being able to be replaced, as Grecia’s original bill was still growing. Their preferred design did not need to be attached using chemicals therefore did not compromise the structure. After modeling, a cap was designed to attach the prosthetic beak to what remained of Grecia’s top beak; this enabled the prosthetic beak to be removed for cleaning and for a larger beak to be inserted over time. 3D printing experts experimented with CubePro Nylon material for the initial prototypes and settled on Duraform PA for the final version. (Duraform PA is used widely for aerospace parts and biocompatible medical devices.) It is a robust nylon material and was chosen for its strength and durability, qualities that match the Toucan’s needs for preening, drinking and eating. The final printing of the Toucan’s prosthetic beak was done on printer known for producing superior parts with high precision, durability and quality. Epoxy glue was used to attach the cap and the prosthesis was locked in place with a pinned hinge. The team chose not to paint the beak to serve as a reminder of Grecia’s tragedy and recovery.

Grecia’s prosthetic was made using the collaboration of experts in Costa Rica, United States and South Korea. Grecia took to his new beak quickly, being able to feed and drink normally, but it was not a universal remedy.

Other birds to receive 3D printed prosthetics

In 2015 a White Pelican (Pelecanus onocrotalus) at China’s Dalian Forest Zoo wildlife rescue centre with severe damage to its beak received a 3D printed prosthetic. According to reports, a rescue team first tried to fix the beak using an aluminium foil board, but it didn’t last. After printing several prototypes the fifth one was surgically attached with screws. It is thought to be the first bird saved using 3D printing in Asia.

In 2007 a Little Blue Penguin (Eudyptula minor) in New Zealand caught its foot in fishing line, damaging the foot so badly that New Zealand’s International Antarctic Centre was forced to amputate it. The Penguin had been struggling with a damaged foot for years when, in 2016, it was given a 3D printed prosthetic foot.

In February 2016 a Brazilian Macaw with a deformed beak, living in captivity, received a 3D printed Titanium beak. Experts realized that a Macaw would not benefit from a plastic beak as the bird needed a tougher version to enable it to crack nuts and other food. Titanium is lightweight, strong, and rust-resistant, which makes it an ideal material for medical devices and implants and also for a Macaw prosthetic beak. The prosthetic was printed from titanium powder, using laser sintering. The end result was a solid, light but immensely strong replica beak, complete with nostrils and screw holes. Her new beak was attached with bone cement and with brightly coloured orthopaedic screws which appear at first glance to be studded with rhinestones.

In 2017 a 3-year-old Secretary Bird living at the Weltvogelpark Walsrode sanctuary in Walsrode, a town in north-western Germany, was given a prosthetic leg with a movable foot after its own was severely broken.

In 2018 a 22-year-old Great Pied Hornbill at Jurong Bird Park, Singapore, was given a prosthetic casque weighing 46-gram after surgery to remove cancerous tissue. His prosthesis was attached and dental resin was used to seal any gaps. The prosthetic will remain until he grows a new casque (a helmet-like structure on the top of its beak).

Unfortunately more Toucans rescued from the illegal trade and have had their beaks damaged and had to have beak prosthetics.

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References: Photo update at Lillydale Lake https://ultimaker.com/learn/what-is-3d-printing A board near the boardwalk at Lillydale Lake stated: https://roaring.earth/3d-printer-helps-broken-beaks/ Since rectification works started in the wetlands, almost https://au.3dsystems.com/learning-center/case- 20,000 cubic metres of earth have been removed studies/prosthetic-beak-gives-new-life-costa-rican-toucan https://3dprintingindustry.com/news/saving-two-birds-with- one-technology-brazilian-toucans-receive-3d-printed-beaks- 55679/ https://3dprint.com/186547/hornbill-3d-printed-beak/

Interesting Sightings

Photo courtesy of Melbourne Water

Cattle Egret photo © Valerie Fowler

3/2/21 Sacred Kingfisher - Yarra Flats Billabongs, Yarra Glen, Jim McMinn

24/2/21 Nankeen Night Heron – Yarra Flats Billabongs, Yarra Glen, Jim McMinn Photos above and below © Valerie Fowler 23/3/21 Rufous Fantail – Warburton, Ray McMahon

1/4/21 Powerful Owl heard calling in evening and pellets later seen – Healesville, Lin Barnett

1/4/21 Brown-headed Honeyeater – Chum Creek, Michael Feller

3/4/21 White-throated Needletails (approx 150) – Healesville, Lin Barnett

4/4/21 Azure Kingfisher – Healesville, Lin Barnett

8/4/21 Southern Boobook calling – Healesville, Alma Mitchell, Valerie and Peter Fowler

13/4/21 King Parrots (16) on the ground feeding on acorns. This was under a large oak tree next to the CFA on the Warburton Trail – Millgrove. Doug Pocock

13/4/21 Cattle Egrets (26) first seen for season – Yarra Glen Valerie & Peter Fowler

12/4/21 Wedge-tailed Eagle – Healesville, Alma Mitchell

19/4/21 Cattle Egrets (6) – Kinglake, Valerie & Peter Fowler

7/5/21 Cattle Egrets (7) Lilydale Sewerage Farm, V & P Fowler

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Reports of Meetings and Outings and Valerie enjoyed being out in the water and seeing birds such as : Lesser Whistling Duck (flying over), Purple February 2nd Meeting – speakers: Peter and Valerie Swamphen (Grey-headed), Indochinese Swamphen, Common Fowler, subject: Thale Noi Bird Sanctuary and Khao Moorhen, White-breasted Waterhen, Bronze-winged Jacana, Dinsor Raptor & Migration Site in South-east Thailand Brown-headed Gull, Little Tern, Common Gull-billed Tern, Peter and Valerie’s presentation was based on just one week White-winged Tern, Whiskered Tern, Asian Openbill, Great of their 4 month trip to South-east Asia. They crossed the Cormorant, Little Cormorant, Yellow Bittern, Purple Heron, border into Thailand on the first of October 2019 and headed Great Egret, Intermediate Egret, Little Egret, Black-crowned north to their first birding destination by train. Their first stop Night Heron, Brahminy Kite, Blue-tailed Bee-eater, Northern was the town of Phatthalung, here they hired a taxi to Thale Brown Shrike, Large-billed Crow, Barn Swallow, Pacific Noi Bird Sanctuary, a wetland Pete had read about before Swallow, Oriental Reed Warbler, Rufescent Prinia, Yellow- leaving home. bellied Prinia, Japanese Stonechat, Chinese Pond Heron, and possibly Java Pond Heron as they are hard to tell the Thale Noi is situated approximately 20 km inland from the difference from Chinese Pond Heron out of breeding plumage. east coast peninsula of the Gulf of Thailand and 115 km north of the Malaysian border. Thale means wetlands but these wetlands are in fact part of 4 linked lakes or lagoons which extend for 80km along the coastal lowlands. Together these lakes form an inland sea which began to form 150 years ago when sediment flowed from the river Phatthalung finally engulfed the large offshore island of Koh Yai leaving just one opening in the south protected by a sand spit. The southernmost Songkla Lake is salty and northern Thale Noi is fresh water and the lakes in between are brackish. The character of each of the lakes changes slightly with each season. The wetlands were internationally recognized as a biodiversity hotspot in 1975 and became a Ramsar Site in 1998. It covers 460 km2 (180 sq miles). Thale Noi is Chinese Pond Heron photo © Peter Fowler surrounded on 3 sides by melaleuca marshland and reed beds and on the south 4th side by Tonle Sap lagoons. Thale Noi supports 180 species of local and migratory birds and it is the only breeding site for painted stork in Thailand. Unfortunately Peter and Valerie were 1 month too early for the arrival of the ducks.

After hiring a boatman for 2 hours they set off on the lake at sunrise just after 7am; the birds were already flying around and leaving the wetlands to feed in the fields. The boatman spoke hardly any English but knew where to find the birds. The lake is a popular site for Thai tourists who hire boats to view the abundant Lotus Lilies when they are in season, but on this day they only shared the lake with a fishermen and a man harvesting the lotus lilies.

At first it was hard for them to photograph the birds due to the low light but it soon brightened and became hot. Peter Asian Openbill photo ©Peter Fowler

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Leaving Thale Noi they saw some Painted Storks and Cattle migration months of other key species. Unfortunately a lot of Egrets and Sunda Pied Fantail. the information was written in Thai.

They travelled by train 391.6km to Chumphon arriving at Peter and Valerie spent several hours at the first viewing their hotel several hours late at 1am due to delays on the platform at 250 metres. They joined Nirott (from near Chiang railway track. Feeling exhausted they spent the day Mai), the official counter of migratory birds for the day and birdwatching in the hotel gardens seeing several common an English and Finnish birdwatcher. They watched the raptors birds, some of which were new species for them: Jungle as they appeared from the far distance then flew overhead. Myna, Asian Pied Starling & Vinous-breasted Myna, Streak- The first bird was a Japanese Sparrowhawk at 8.20am. eared Bulbul, Racket-tailed Treepie, Scaly-breasted Munia, Nirott recorded the numbers, male, female or juvenile of Zebra Dove, Large-billed Crow, Red-Throated (Taiga) each species. He took note of the wind direction, wind speed, Flycatcher, Lineated Barbet and familiar birds such as White- barometric pressure and temperature every hour starting throated Kingfisher, Greater Racket-tailed Drongo, Greater from 7am and finishing at 5pm. Nirott was volunteering for 2 Coucal and Asian Koel, Yellow-vented Bulbul and House and months. There were Chinese Sparrowhawks numbering 230 Tree Sparrows. in one flock and single raptors, one called Shikra, and The next morning they set off in a taxi for Khao Dinsor different species of Swifts and Swallows. There were many Raptor & Migration Site 38km north of Chumphon. Raptors species of birds at the same time including Eastern (Oriental) were first discovered to migrate over this area in 2002. Honey Buzzard and Crested Serpent Eagle.

In 2008 Chukiat Nualsri learned of a 450m hill locally called Khao Dinsor (pencil hill) where raptors could be observed in a southbound migration from mid-August to November every year. After climbing up through the secondary forest he emerged at the top where there was a spectacular view. It quickly became apparent that the raptors could be observed at close range from many different locations. On subsequent visits he had the same experience. In 2009 he was joined at the top of Khao Dinsor by several members of the Thai Raptor Group who said it was the best place to observe the raptors, perhaps the best place in Asia. It had the added bonus of having the sun at your back to photograph the birds. Realising the significance of this site he approached the village elders to discuss the site for education, tourism and bird migration research. Together they developed a plan and Chinese Sparrowhawk photo © Peter Fowler within 3 months a path was built through the forest to the best observation sites. He set up a viewing platform in 2010. It took him 2 years to build. The first viewing site was at ground level then the second at 350 metres. From early September 2010 there began an intensive research program at Khao Dinsor to determine how many species migrate past and numbers of each species.

A film crew arrived from the most popular Thai television station and an interviewer from an internet news channel. They interviewed and filmed Nirott as well as the big flocks of Khao Dinsor visitor centre photo © Valerie Fowler birds flying overhead. Pete and Valerie had their 5 minutes of The Raptor centre opened in 2012. It was the first Raptor fame. The migratory bird count for the day was Oriental centre in Asia. There were lots of information and displays in Honey-buzzard 553, Chinese Sparrowhawk 1,602, Japanese the centre showing migration routes, raptor identification and Sparrowhawk 102, Shikra 40, Pacific Swift 21, Blue-tailed Bee-eater 557, Barn Swallow 277, Ashy Drongo 13, Red-

10 Lyrebird Tales Lyrebird Tales

rumped Swallow 30, Asian Openbill 76, Black-eared Kite 15, Outing Saturday February 13th – Cancelled due to Covid Asian Brown Flycatcher 1, Brahminy Kite 3, Black Drongo 1, restrictions Black-naped Oriole 4, Western Osprey 2, unidentified Buteo Outing February 24th – O’Shannassy Aqueduct Trail, Buzzard 1, Brown-backed Needletail 4, White-throated Millgrove. Needletail 5. Ten people enjoyed a mild late summer walk along the When the bird migration slowed at 11am Peter and Valerie aqueduct under partly sunny skies. Despite some slight returned to the taxi and set off for their next birdwatching confusion about the meeting place everyone made it to the spot nearby, but were mistakenly taken to Thungwualaen carpark, where a couple of Brown Goshawks made an early Beach near Saphli 13km From Chumphon south which is a appearance. A couple of Wedge-tailed Eagles and a Collared local Chumphon coral reef snorkelling spot. Finally at Phang Sparrowhawk completed the raptor contingent for the day. Nang Tak beach they were disappointed that the tide was in and they only saw a Common Kingfisher, Pacific Reef Egret, The calls of many Silvereyes lead us from the carpark down Lesser Sandplover and Long-toed Stint. Their next spot was to the aqueduct. A mixed flock of Silvereyes, Brown the Kings Project Nong Yai area Development Project which Thornbills, and Grey Fantails, occasionally with Striated was recommended for birds but was very disappointing. Thornbills and Superb Fairy-wrens, darted around, rarely sitting still and frustrating the photographers. These birds were concentrated in patches as we walked along. Whether it was one large flock moving with us or several flocks was uncertain. Manfred’s tongue-in-cheek estimate of Silvereye numbers was 99.

Yellow-tailed Black Cockatoos were also quite abundant (and vociferous) with one flock of 25-30 being seen. The large numbers of mature pine trees with their cones probably acted as the main attractant for the cockatoos. A smaller flock of Sulphur-crested Cockatoos and some King Parrots and Crimson Rosellas completed the parrot contingent.

A Superb Lyrebird, only about 30m from the aqueduct, View from the Raptor viewing platform © V. Fowler entertained us for several minutes as he practised his The next day Valerie and Peter returned to the raptor repertoire of calls. Not to be outdone, a Grey Butcherbird migration viewing platform where they joined Nirott, Chukiat added some more melody. Nualsri and a doctor/bird photographer from near the This was a day when birds seemed to be in flocks, as a flock Malaysian border. They spent the whole day at the site but of 17 Little Ravens and one of White-naped Honeyeaters the migration was slower than the previous day due to the were also sighted. However, a solitary Rufous Fantail drew wind coming from the North-east. The highlight was seeing most attention from the party. Other non-flocking species male and female Pied Harriers, an exciting new bird for all encountered were Eastern Yellow Robin, Satin Bowerbird, but one of the observers. Birds officially recorded for the day White-browed Scrubwren, Spotted Pardalote, White-throated were: Oriental Honey-buzzard 39 Treecreeper, Red Wattlebird, Lewin’s Honeyeater, Yellow- Chinese Sparrowhawk 1,170, Japanese Sparrowhawk 147, faced Honeyeater, Pied Currawong, Australian Magpie, and Shikra 36, Pacific Swift 13, Blue-tailed Bee-eater 303, Barn Laughing Kookaburra. Swallow 230, unidentified Buteo Buzzard 1, Red-rumped Bird Call after lunch revealed we had encountered 29 species, Swallow 3, Asian Openbill 42, Black-eared Kite 5, Pied Harrier so several people began rapidly scanning for that extra one. 2, Brahminy Kite 5, Black Drongo 3, Black-naped Oriole 1, We were saved when the Sparrowhawk flew over, bringing Crested Serpent Eagle 3, Eastern Marsh Harrier 1, Booted the total to 30 for the trip. Michael Feller Eagle 2, White-throated Needletail 36. Outing March 13th Jumping Creek Reserve, Warrandyte Valerie said the best time to view the migration is between State Park late September through early November, with a raptor festival held in October. Substantial raptors migrate through Fifteen people met in the carpark on an overcast and very spring but in lesser numbers and diversity than in autumn. humid morning, all hoping that the trip would beat the rain The best time in spring is from mid-March to early April. She that was forecast for the day. talked about the raptor research at Khao Dinsor and the Progress was initially quite slow as the first 50m of walking migration routes of the Japanese and Chinese Sparrowhawks track beside the Yarra yielded most of the species we were to recorded on satellite tag tracking systems. see this day. Well beneath the vociferous Sulphur-crested On the 6th of October Valerie and Peter continued on their Cockatoos and Rainbow Lorikeets flew many White-browed journey northwards through Thailand and beyond, having Scrubwrens, Brown Thornbills, Grey Fantails, Superb Fairy- enjoyed several days birdwatching in south-eastern Thailand. wrens, and Red-browed Finches.

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backs to us. However, they did at least pose for a few photos. A few drops of rain fell but the rain did hold off until we were driving home. Bird Call after lunch initially revealed we had encountered 25 species, and Dace’s guess of 27 species was closest. However, some Galahs and a Magpie Lark flew in to provide Dace with a perfect guess. Michael Feller

Higher up were Striated Thornbills, Yellow-faced Honeyeaters, and a rather large group of Spotted Pardalotes, some of which took turns to investigate a hollow in a branch of a large manna gum. Calling from not far away were Eastern Rosellas, Red Wattlebirds, an Eastern Yellow Robin, a Female Golden Whistler photo © Katmun Loh Golden Whistler, and a Laughing Kookaburra. As usual the Outing March 24th Toorourrong and Yan Yean smaller birds moved too quickly to allow good photos to be Reservoirs taken. The morning mist was still around when we arrived at the As we slowly walked along, several Pacific Black Ducks, an carpark of the Toorourrong Reservoir. The first time the club Australasian Darter, and a Dusky Moorhen were seen on the has visited this location, eventually we numbered 10 river, while Crimson Rosellas, Australian Magpies, Pied observers. A small flock of Thornbills was our first sighting, Currawongs, a Grey Butcherbird, and more Laughing later identified as some Buff-rumped, Brown, and mainly Kookaburras made their presence known. Sulphur-crested Yellow-rumped Thornbills. This was a good start. Cockatoos continued with their cacophony. An Eastern Spinebill was seen feeding in a large clump of mistletoe on a We made our way up to the lookout which gave us a good tree. view of the whole area – mountain backdrop, water and riparian edges, and the Reservoir retaining wall. There were The track turned up away from the river and the vegetation flocks of Sulphur Crested Cockatoos and Long-billed Corellas, changed from a riparian manna gum forest to a drier box- as well as some Magpie Larks, Red Wattlebirds, and Magpies. stringybark-peppermint one with an understorey heavily dominated by Burgan. The next kilometre of this vegetation At the 2009 Bushfire Memorial adjacent to a pond, we saw a yielded only one White-browed Scrubwren apart from the Purple Swamphen and one Dusky Moorhen. We ventured into incessant calls of Sulphur-crested Cockatoos and a few the wetland as there were quite a few birds calling. A Spotted calling Noisy Miners. The leader decided to take a short cut Pardalote was seen, White-browed Scrubwrens came into through the bush to a nearby 4WD track to reduce time in sight, plus some Red-browed Finches, Superb Fairy Wrens this bird-impoverished bush. Two members of the party and a female Golden Whistler. This was a very scrubby area doubted his navigational abilities and returned down the so a good place for small birds to hide out. Both the Eastern track we had come. The remainder followed the leader and and the Crimson Rosella were observed. were rewarded with the pleasant 4WD track after only 50m of Over the dam wall were Black Swans in the distance, and relatively open bush. This was followed back to a walking something white - which turned out to be a Pelican. To our track which lead down to the river track we had been on, surprise pair of Musk Ducks was about 80 metres away. joining it a few hundred metres from the carpark. A few Katmun took a great photo of the male duck with a yabby in people were privileged to see a male and female Golden its beak, feeding this choice morsel to a younger one. Whistler from the river track. Some Cormorants – Little Pied and Black were sighted, and Lunch was had around a picnic table below the carpark. we discovered one White-faced Heron in the shallow water People had obviously had meaty meals here as we were soon next to the dam wall. On the way back to the car park we surrounded by a few Laughing Kookaburras, who were were treated to a Scarlet Robin and another Yellow-rumped disappointed with our fare and either flew off or turned their Thornbill. Species seen at Toorourrong: 39 12 Lyrebird Tales Lyrebird Tales

to be the roost of Nankeen Night Herons. There were at least 7 adults as well as a couple of spotted white juveniles with rufous tails. The adults were mainly rufous and had cream necks. As they were high in the tree, we mainly saw their underparts, however later when I checked my photos, they were all warily looking down at us. Extra birds at Yan Yean: 18

Despite the occasional drizzle we had a wonderful outing with some special sightings. The total number of species for the day was 57. Manfred Hennig

April 8th Meeting - speaker: Tania Ireton, subject: Islands of the Albatross Latitudes

Australasian Grebes photo © Manfred Hennig In 2007 Tania embarked on an 18 day voyage to the subantarctic with Heritage Expeditions aboard the Spirit of Now we moved on to Yan Yean Reservoir, a 10-minute drive Enderby in a quest to add new bird species to her life list. In away, and were greeted by Geoff Deason who has been there late November she and her fellow passengers departed from many times. We stopped for lunch under a large shelter, a Bluff situated on the southern tip of the south island of New good thing as suddenly there was a quick but heavy Zealand. Aboard the Enderby there were 24 crew members downpour of rain. to support the 48 passengers. A map of the southern oceans Geoff guided us to some great finds. On the water in the around Antarctica showed the positions of the islands and the reservoir we saw about six Great Crested Grebes – an vast areas of sea uncommon sight. There were lots of Australasian Grebes and a variety of ducks. We drove to the nearby wetlands located beneath the retaining wall. Here there were more Australasian Grebes with some fluffy young nearby. As they were no more than 15-20 metres away it was a good sighting. The young were constantly whistling and swimming around their parents, begging for food.

There were quite a few Dusky Moorhens here, Purple Swamphens, Chestnut Teals, and some Wood Ducks. As we walked across the road to other wetland ponds more Chestnut Teals appeared, and a flock of Hardhead Ducks, as well as Black Ducks. We were looking for the (not so common) Common Sandpiper, which Geoff had seen here before. We couldn’t find it, but saw a Black-fronted Dotterel instead.

Back to the car, and we drove up to the old caretaker’s cottage. Next to the cottage is a huge coniferous tree, known Penguin Walkway photo © Tania Ireton

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They arrived at their first destination, the Snares Islands. destroying the vegetation. They have since been eradicated, They transferred into naiads (a type of zodiac with an as have rats, mice and cats. Wekas (a species of rail) were aluminium floor) and viewed the birds and wildlife from the also eradicated. There were Southern Elephant Seals of all water as they could not land onshore. Tania described the shapes and sizes from weaners to full size adults lying island as a magnificent place of volcanic scenery. She showed around on the beach. At Sandy Bay there were lots of us her photo of the White-capped Albatross, describing its Penguins including Royal Penguins and a big colony of King diagnostic features explaining that the major breeding Penguins. Tania explained that the breeding cycle of the King location for the species was on 3 of the islands in the Penguin lasts for 18 months so there were birds in different Auckland Islands Group. stages of moulting from their juvenile plumage. She said she could sit on the beach and the penguins came up to stand at her feet too close for photography. There were a few Gentoo Penguins back from the beach amongst the vegetation and Rockhopper Penguins in the rock screes. There was also Southern Skua, Macquarie Island Shag, Northern Giant Petrel (with an identifying pink tip to the bill), Southern Giant Petrel (green tip to its bill) and a white morph Southern Giant Petrel. These Albatross-sized birds attack new-born and injured birds and feed on seal carcasses. Just before leaving Macquarie Island Tania had the good luck to observe a small flock of Redpolls, the only passerine on the Island which is not always seen.

Tania showed us a Penguin walkway, a steep trail up the side of the craggy island, and a photograph of the Snares Crested Penguin; its crest does not stick up as in other species of Crested Penguins. Tania explained that many bird species had been split and each island had its own species such as the Snares Cape Petrel and NZ (Snares) Tomtit; a small robin-sized bird. Next visited was the Auckland Islands, they were covered in dense vegetation, windswept Southern Rata and megaherbs, topped by Tussock Grass. Passengers were able to land upon the island where they saw many birds. Light-mantled Sooty Albatross were nesting; their plumage Royal Penguins photo © Tania Ireton good camouflage against the background, Southern Royal Albatross, Southern Skua, Auckland Island Shag, Yellow-eyed The next stop was Campbell Island, another island successful Penguin including one albino bird with a pink eye and a pale with baiting and eradication of pest species. There was a grey back, Banded Dotterel, Subantarctic (Auckland Island) meteorological station which sends its data back Snipe which Tania said was smaller than the one in Australia automatically. The island had rocky shores and a narrow but behaved the same when flushed, the flightless Auckland boardwalk to protect the vegetation. The track was steep in Island Teal which had very small stunted wings, Red-billed places with wonderful scenery viewed. There was a female Gull. Other birds were Red-crowned Parakeet, Bellbird, Sea Lion with accompanying male on the board walk so a Auckland Island Tomtit and New Zealand Pipit. She also saw detour through the difficult unyielding vegetation was made. Hooker’s Sea Lion. At the end of the day there was a large On the island were nesting Southern Royal Albatross; Tania number of Shearwaters flying around the boat. was able to sit near to take good photos of them. There were also Dunnocks (similar to a sparrow); they were introduced The next 2 days were uncomfortable with rough seas with 9 to New Zealand from the UK and made their own way to the metre waves during which Tania survived on water and dry island. crackers whilst trying not to slide off her bunk. Finally the bad weather blew out before arriving at their next The trip continued to Antipodes Island which was volcanic destination. and had basalt columns; there was a lot of kelp along the shores. They were not allowed to land here but birds such as Macquarie Island is one location of the Australian National Penguins and Albatross on the cliffs were viewed from the Antarctic Research Expeditions (ANARE) Macquarie Island boat. There were Southern Rockhopper Penguins and Erect- Research Station. The Enderby was the first ship of the crested Penguins, Tania said the crest lies back when the bird season to land and its passengers were treated to scones, is in the water, and showed us photos to illustrate this. They jam and cream. There was a lot of erosion caused by rabbits saw a skeleton of a Penguin in the water which had been 14 Lyrebird Tales Lyrebird Tales

eaten by a Leopard Seal which stripped off all the meat and and a Blue Petrel which has a white tip on its tail. Petrels organs leaving only the head and flippers attached to the seen were: Wilsons Storm-Petrel, Black-bellied Storm-Petrel, skeleton. White-headed Petrel which Tania said had beautiful soft plumage, Mottled Petrel and Grey-faced Petrel. Closer to New Tania saw a Reischek’s Parakeet (which has a red cap), only Zealand she saw a White-capped (Shy) Albatross. found here. On the last day of her trip Tania was looking to see more bird Next they viewed Bounty Islands from the boat in a heavy species closer to New Zealand but was disappointed to find swell. The cliffs were covered in thousands of birds, Prions, the weather produced a solid band of fog, however she was Albatross, Erect-crested Penguin, Bounty Island Shag (which pleased to see a Mottled Petrel fly close, having only seen it has a crest) and Salvin’s (Shy) Albatross. There were also in the far distance previously but unfortunately was New Zealand Fur Seals on the islands. When the boat was unprepared to photograph it as it appeared unexpectedly out moving along Tania counted 85 Albatross following. of the fog. On the trip Tania added 41 bird species to her New Zealand life list and 8 species to her Australian list.

Thank you Tania for driving so far from home to show us such a wonderful presentation with wonderful photos; we appreciated how difficult it was to get such good photos of seabirds from a boat. Many people in the audience will probably never see many of the birds you saw, but we were able to enjoy your narrative which was informative and we appreciated the descriptions for identifying many of the similar species. Your vast knowledge about many bird species was impressive and your patience with the many questions you were asked. Tania, we really enjoyed your talk and hope you will return soon to give an account of another trip you enjoyed. Thank you.

Tania has added the following information Chatham Albatross photo © Tania Ireton Blue Petrel – why is it named that: The scientific name Stopping at the inhabited Chatham Islands there was a jetty is Halobaena caerulea. The genus is compounded from two and rock feature called The Pyramid. Tania said there were Greek words, one meaning “salt” or “sea” and the other stunning birds all around the boat. She saw here the meaning “to go” or “walk” whilst caeruleus is Latin for “dark Chatham Albatross, Northern Royal Albatross, Buller’s blue” or “azure”, thus we have “the blue sea-walker”. It can Albatross, two endemic Shags – Pitt Island Shag and appear slightly blue in some lights however other birds Chatham Island Shag. There was the Shore Plover (the with caeruleus or caerulea in their scientific name such as the closest species to the Hooded Plover); it is confined to the Eurasian Blue Tit or Purple Honeycreeper are much more Chatham Islands except for those released and the rare obviously blue. Then again, a relative of our Black- Chatham Island Oystercatcher which had multiple bands on shouldered Kite is the Black-winged Kite which looks very both its legs. They viewed the steep sided cliffs of the similar and its scientific name is Elanus caeruleus with no conservation island called Little Mangere Island, the home of obvious blue anywhere. the last female Black Robin named ‘Old Blue’ and 3 males. A successful breeding program began and there are now 100 Number of Albatross species: 21 according to latest IOC birds. Tania did not see the birds but heard their call. taxonomy (used on Tony Palliser’s website)

Whilst still in the Chatham Islands Tania saw the endangered North Pacific: Laysan Albatross, Black-footed Albatross, Forbes Parakeet (which has a yellow head), Chatham Island Short-tailed Albatross Red-crowned Parakeet, Chatham Island Tui, Chatham Island Southern Hemisphere: Waved Albatross (Galapagos, only Pipit and the Chatham Island Pigeon which has paler plumage tropical albatross), Wandering Albatross, Antipodean than the one in New Zealand. Albatross, Amsterdam Albatross, Tristan Albatross, Southern Whilst on her trip at sea Tania was lucky to see lots of Short- Royal Albatross, finned Pilot Whales, a glimpse of a Beaked Whale, Southern Northern Royal Albatross, Sooty Albatross, Light-mantled Right Whale Dolphins and a Sperm Whale. Other birds: Light- Albatross, Black-browed Albatross, Campbell Albatross, Shy mantled Sooty Albatross, Black-browed Albatross, Yellow- Albatross, Chatham Albatross, Salvin's Albatross, Grey- nosed Albatross, White-chinned Petrel and Buller’s headed Albatross, Atlantic Yellow-nosed Albatross, Indian Shearwater. Over several days a large flock of approximately Yellow-nosed Albatross, Buller's Albatross 100 Prions followed the boat and Tania identified Fulmar Prion which has a distinctive barrel roll flight, Fairy Prion Answer to What Bird is That? which has a large black tail and small beak, Broad-billed Male Gang Gang Cockatoo Prion which has a large beak and dark shadow on its neck

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Birdlife Yarra Valley further 6-8 kilometres is a sign on right “To Murrindindi Scenic Reserve 9 Kilometres”. This road later becomes email: [email protected] Wilhelmina Falls Rd. The last kilometre is on good gravel. Postal address: Birdlife Australia, Yarra Valley Branch, Turn left at first camping/picnic spot. (North-central Fire P.O. Box 1172, Healesville, Vic. 3777. Meetings are held in District). Leader: Manfred Hennig 0421 166 315 the Badger Creek Hall Meeting Room or Hall (Covid-safe) at September 7.30 p.m. Badger Creek Rd. Badger Creek (next to CFA). Melway Edn 39 map 278 F8. Sat 11th Outing to Birdsland Reserve Tecoma / Belgrave Heights. Meet 9:30 am. Melway ed, 39 map 84 C1 (off Mt Meetings and Outings are automatically cancelled on Morton Rd. Belgrave Heights) Leader: Warren Cousins 0425 days of Total Fire Ban in the Central and North-central 768 942 Fire Districts. (Central unless notified otherwise) Wed 22nd Sherbrooke Forest Ridge Track. Meet 9:30 am Birdlife Yarra Valley outings and meetings will be held in at Grants Picnic Ground, Monbulk Rd Kallista. Melway ed. 39 accordance with BirdLife and Victorian Government Covid-19 Map 75 K 4 Leader: Warren Cousins 0425 768 942 restriction guidelines. October

Proposed Calendar June to December 2021 Tues 5th Meeting – Speaker: Chris Doughty. Subject: The A-Z of my favourite world birds. June Sat 9th Outing to Kurth Kiln Regional Park Gembrook Sat 12th Outing to Plenty Gorge Meet 9:30am at the Red Meet 9.30. If coming via Lilydale take the Warburton Hw to Gum Picnic area. From Plenty Rd turn into Gordons Road. Woori Yallock. In the township of Woori Yallock, prepare to Park entrance on Left. Melway ed. 39 183 H8 Leader: Kat turn onto C411 Healesville-Koo Wee Rup Rd. Suggest you at Mun 0469 850 153 this point reset your odometer to zero. Follow this road and Wed 23rd Outing to Hamer Arboretum Dandenong at the 1.2km mark turn left into Church Rd.At the 1.5km Ranges National Park (possible additional Rhododendron mark turn left into Schoolhouse Rd.At the 5.1 km mark turn Gardens). Meet 9:30am at the BBQ & Shelter corner right into Lusatia Park Rd. At the 11.3 km mark turn right Woolrich & Chalet Roads Melway edition 39 map 122 B9 into C424 Gembrook-Launching Place Rd. At the 13.5km Leader: Manfred Hennig 0421 166 315 mark you’ll see a sign for the Kurth Kiln Regional Park. At the 18.0 km mark turn right into Beenak Rd. At the 19.2 km July mark branch left staying on Beenak Rd. At the 21.1km mark you’ll be at the destination with a small car park on the left Sat 3rd Survey at Coranderrk Bushland, Badger Creek just next to a small reservoir being fed by Tomahawk Creek. Meet 9.30am sharp at Gate 1 (opposite Fleay Rd) Badger We’ll start from here for our walk. The car park is just before Avenue, Badger Creek. Gate will be locked after entry. the intersection of Beenak Rd with Soldiers Rd. Leader: Melway ed. 39 map 278 F10. Leader: Warren Cousins 0425 Warren Cousins 0425 768 942 768 942 Note change of date Wed 27th Outing to the Alexandra area Meet 9.30 at Visitor th Wed 28 Jehosaphat Gully, Kinglake National Park. Information Centre car park, Rotary Park cnr Grant & Vickery Meet 9:30 at first car park. Melway edition 39 Map 380 H 12 Streets Alexandra. Melwayed.39 map X910 T8. Convoy to Followed by Wombelano Falls, KNP. From Whittlesea-Kinglake different locations. Possible car-pooling from Healesville at Road, at Middle Kinglake turn into Extons Road. Follow & 8.30 Library car park (next to Coles car park) Leader: turn right into Captains Creek Road, to Wombelano Falls Manfred Hennig 0421 166 315 carpark. (Dry weather road only) Leader: Manfred Hennig 0421 166 315 Originally advertised as an outing to November Sherbrooke Sat 13th Survey at Coranderrk Bushland, Badger Creek August Meet 9.30 sharp at Gate 1 (opposite Fleay Rd) Badger Avenue, Badger Creek. Gate will be locked after entry. rd Tues 3 Meeting – Speaker: James Matcott. Subject: An Melway ed. 39 map 278 F10. Leader: Warren Cousins 0425 Expert's Guide to Dipping Seabird Feathers in Petrol, 768 942 and Why It Matters. Wed 24th Survey at RACV Club, Healesville Meet 9.30 at th Sat 14 Outing to Warburton Trail Seville to Killara lower first carpark on the right. Melway ed. 39 map 269 J12. (return) Carry lunch. Meet at 9:30am at site of Seville Leader: Manfred Hennig 0421 166 315 Railway Station just past intersection of Station Rd and Victoria Rd. Melway ed. 39 map 119 K 7 Leaders: Doug December Sat 11th Badger Weir & Christmas picnic lunch Meet at 9.30. Follow Badger Weir Rd to car park Melway ed. Pocock & Jan Llewelyn 5964 4581 39 map 278 K9. Leader: Warren Cousins 0425 768 942 Wed 25th Outing to Murrindindi Scenic Reserve Meet 9:30am. Follow Melba Hway from Yarra Glen to Glenburn. A 16 Lyrebird Tales