tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-44977924500555395722024-03-06T08:45:03.743+10:00Red Mill House - Daintree BirdwatchingRed Mill House in Daintree - recognised internationally as high quality birdwatching accommodation in Daintree, Queensland's Wet Tropics region of Australia - arguably, the countries finest birding area . Hosts Andrew and Trish Forsyth are keen Daintree birders with a wealth of local knowledge on birds, their sightings and the World Heritage listed Daintree Rainforest.Unknownnoreply@blogger.comBlogger58125tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4497792450055539572.post-63408462203282283802014-06-24T17:35:00.001+10:002014-06-24T17:35:49.166+10:00Winter birdsBeautiful winter weather here in Daintree with cool nights, foggy mornings and clear warm days - just the way we like it! I must say, though, that it is about time after 6 months of wet weather and making it to 3.7 metres of rain so far for the year. Everything is starting to dry out, which is very satisfying, considering the amount of mould we have had to deal with this year.<br />
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The garden is also starting to reshoot quite nicely after the cyclone. We still have a few stumps and chunks of wood to move, but things are looking better.<br />
One of the effects of having a cyclone go through is that it wipes out all the fruit and flowers in the forest and the garden for several weeks, if not months. It's hard work keeping up with bananas and pawpaws, coconuts, seed and nectavite for all the hungry honeyeaters, friarbirds, drongos, riflebirds, doves, scrub fowl and turkeys that are standing around rattling their feed bowls every morning!<br />
Even the scrubfowl have taken to jumping up onto the feeders.<br />
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We have never seen so many Victoria's Riflebird (female only, unfortunately) in the garden as this year. This poor girl hit a window, but survived to tell the tale.<br />
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Victoria's Riflebird (female)</td></tr>
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Fortunately some of the palms are starting to fruit again, so the riflebirds are having daily disputes with the figbirds and orioles for each fruit as it ripens.<br />
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A visit from a lovely Amethystine Python this week as it warmed up in the sun for a while before disappearing into the shed. Only about 2 metres in length and not very big. Some horrible 'frog-strangling'- type noises from up high a couple of days ago suggests that it hasn't gone far.<br />
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Amethystine Python</td></tr>
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Good news for birding locally with good sightings of Little Kingfisher, Azure Kingfisher, Great-billed Heron all on the Daintree River and some great winter specials such as White-eared Monarch and Black-faced Monarch also. Spotted Whistling Ducks (2) also on the river for a day or so, but not seen since.<br />
Great sightings of Southern Cassowary north of the Daintree River at various locations such as The Icecream Company, the Beach House and Jindalba Boardwalk. It seems that the sub-adults have been sent away and are looking for their own territory - several have been seen alone in the last week or so.<br />
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Double-eyed Fig-Parrot, Wompoo Fruit-Dove and Fairy Gerygone are birds of note in the garden at Red Mill House as well as the Victoria's Riflebird.<br />
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Unknownnoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4497792450055539572.post-81729648891729506132014-06-10T11:41:00.003+10:002014-06-10T11:41:48.845+10:00Back - - and into it!!After a rather turbulent first half of the year, we are back at Red Mill House, ready for the season ahead.<br />
Our old friends Peter and Vicki, who were looking after Red Mill for us, and our beloved Silvia busted their proverbials to make the place look as good as possible before we returned. Bless 'em!<br />
It still breaks the heart to see the broken-off tree tops and the great holes where there were once trees, and the stumps still lying there, and having coconuts dominating the skyline rather than rainforest trees, and being able to see cars drive past - - - <u>but </u>they have done a great job cleaning up, removing rubbish, painting etc. We are very grateful to them all.<br />
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To first-time visitors Red Mill House looks just fine.<br />
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And - in this climate the holes will fill again fairly quickly with something that has been waiting for the opportunity to get some light and get going, for a long time. And - - - I'll have enough light to grow a few vegetables!! Give it a couple of years - - - - - .<br />
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The rain has kept going, with now 3.7metres of rain recorded for the year to date. The odd dry and beautiful day here and there, and hopefully that will improve as the 'dry' season sets in.<br />
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Lots of exciting things happening for us - a new Daintree Regional map which will be printed in the next few days, and a new Red Mill House website to go live in the next few days - both of which we have been working hard on.<br />
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Birdwise - Cyclone Ita has taken so much of our fruit and flowers from the forest that we can't keep up with the nectar feeders and fruit trays. It is certainly a good opportunity to get a close look at our honeyeaters et al as they squabble for food. There are opportunities to see Victoria's Riflebird, Red-necked Crake, Azure Kingfisher and others in the garden. The river is a little quite at present, but will start to flourish again soon with some fine weather. Good Cassowary sightings north of the Daintree River.<br />
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Our UK trip was fabulous with the Birdquest trip along the west coast of the UK and up through the Outer Hebrides living up to our expectations. Puffins, Guillimots, Razorbills, Gannets etc galore and the great opportunity to see the sea stacks and breeding colonies. Also managed to catch up with wonderful birds like Chough, Corncrake, Ptarmigan while in Scotland. We loved the wilderness in Scotland and sacrificed a few nights in London to stay in the Sottish Highland area of the Cairngorms for a bit longer, while the weather remained favourable.<br />
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Now, back to work for the year!!!<br />
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Unknownnoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4497792450055539572.post-34673168056983064772014-04-21T04:47:00.001+10:002014-04-21T04:51:36.392+10:00Cyclone Ita<div class="MsoNormal">
Life takes some funny turns sometimes, doesn't it.</div>
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10 days to go before our big trip to the UK - getting organised, studying the birds, finishing the painting, getting the place looking gorgeous, etc, etc and then - - - - -along comes a late season cyclone called 'Ita'.</div>
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Red Mill House before</td></tr>
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Red Mill House after</td></tr>
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Ita crossed the coast near Cooktown at about 9pm on Friday
and headed pretty-well slightly inland and parallel from there. It started
blowing here at about midday that day and continued, culminating in us being
slammed at between about 3 and 7am in what was, I think, a Cat 3 still at that
stage.</div>
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She raced up the Daintree Valley from all directions but
chose a swathe of about 200m wide at this point - -<b>our 200m!</b> You can see
the strip for miles.</div>
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We had trees and branches crashing down all over the place,
bouncing off the roof and in some cases piercing the roof.</div>
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Front garden before</td></tr>
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Front garden after</td></tr>
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Our bedroom roof</td></tr>
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In all we lost eight of our biggest trees and picked up three from our neighbours – they fell in three different directions in the space of minutes. Fortunately our great big milky pine out in the front yard chose just to shed all her branches rather than topple over – we are extremely grateful for that! She would have flattened the house if she’d gone down. Pretty scary though as she threw them down at us.<br />
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Poor old pool fence</td></tr>
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">The pool</td></tr>
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We are fine, the buildings are basically fine, and one day
the garden will look good again. Unfortunately the top come out of the big
Syzygium out the front, rending it dangerous, so it had to go - - -</div>
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I can’t believe that our tallest trees out the front are now
coconuts – horrible! <br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiX26-BUrPq3Vb-BormC6UDbqI5vskwRU9E_EpnWuMmy8TF58QndGZoHIDaenom0NYAWokcW5xP4_-rbUsKpgOVQDQ3OVmf_Lnpfn_sGgq4061rvTxahV7X5i_ZwAYPG2SO_bEZ449Z53LF/s1600/P1050948.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiX26-BUrPq3Vb-BormC6UDbqI5vskwRU9E_EpnWuMmy8TF58QndGZoHIDaenom0NYAWokcW5xP4_-rbUsKpgOVQDQ3OVmf_Lnpfn_sGgq4061rvTxahV7X5i_ZwAYPG2SO_bEZ449Z53LF/s1600/P1050948.JPG" height="300" width="400" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Three trees on top of each other</td></tr>
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The joy of living in the tropics is that everyone grows so
quick.</div>
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We have been blessed to have good people nearby to help out
and a tree-lopper and builder who are available.<br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh2t_5d4PkRZ2-CWtP4DXlkEY6l0n0R4d7XriY1i-I7sGwpjF4pgBRUEEswXn80Yolka9rOofbjqr1qly3939_0i17EFfUPd8Oxm68XQmhrY4u24rmG6lbTqwuspjJQz7V1xHd8BJ22IQb3/s1600/P1050901.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh2t_5d4PkRZ2-CWtP4DXlkEY6l0n0R4d7XriY1i-I7sGwpjF4pgBRUEEswXn80Yolka9rOofbjqr1qly3939_0i17EFfUPd8Oxm68XQmhrY4u24rmG6lbTqwuspjJQz7V1xHd8BJ22IQb3/s1600/P1050901.JPG" height="300" width="400" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Our new building 'the doghouse''</td></tr>
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We've worked our butts off to clean up and things are looking much better - - all the other things will just have to remain undone.</div>
Unknownnoreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4497792450055539572.post-88565220516075305222014-03-23T14:39:00.000+10:002014-03-23T14:39:05.365+10:00We're back!!After two months of rain, demolition and re-building, Red Mill House is back and open for business as of Monday. All the plans of weekends away camping, trips to the Reef etc have been replaced with days on the paintbrush, sawing and hammering. The place looks fresh and fabulous, albeit very soggy underfoot, and we look forward to a great season ahead.<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgTnIamM8W2iM3YIJZ63IR6c7QbMrJdL8Km3fJSd0iqU-u5GjOGySA2uxA18uYFK_g-Va1ShhDPeNUIe210qq37NF8q6MDQ9kRgclk5F-M9IUoMO7qJs5wK6zXozDCwd5x0LzZXwuzN57yJ/s1600/new+stairs.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgTnIamM8W2iM3YIJZ63IR6c7QbMrJdL8Km3fJSd0iqU-u5GjOGySA2uxA18uYFK_g-Va1ShhDPeNUIe210qq37NF8q6MDQ9kRgclk5F-M9IUoMO7qJs5wK6zXozDCwd5x0LzZXwuzN57yJ/s1600/new+stairs.jpg" height="300" width="400" /></a></div>
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There has been almost 1 metre of rain in Daintree in March to date, most of it happening in very heavy falls, which have tested the new drains and gutters - and they have passed! . Daintree has been flooded in four times so far this wet season and we are all just about ready to see the end of it! Oh, for it to dry out enough to mow the lawn!<br />
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One of the great pleasures of being closed for a few weeks, so less people around, is the fact that the birds become much more confiding. A family of Red-necked Crake speed past our bedroom door every morning as they move from the cover around the pond to the cover around the pool. Gorgeous things, and so, so bright!<br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjACdq3alAbkLyoF2dOtLzkLItSVe6N1qOytM6kEo2PPYsSiCA-8VvmE1JTRBQCzi77sPIYjcZZAAZY9IVdnsnoga4HGg4s98MkG7NRxsZxDysRvRJSMNSG_075y4MqYitl0EazClcY1Mx_/s1600/Red-necked+Crake.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjACdq3alAbkLyoF2dOtLzkLItSVe6N1qOytM6kEo2PPYsSiCA-8VvmE1JTRBQCzi77sPIYjcZZAAZY9IVdnsnoga4HGg4s98MkG7NRxsZxDysRvRJSMNSG_075y4MqYitl0EazClcY1Mx_/s1600/Red-necked+Crake.jpg" height="266" width="400" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Red-necked Crake (Ian Worcester)<br /><div style="text-align: left;">
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Birding has been difficult as everyone shelters from the wet, but lots of Channel-billed Cuckoo and Koels around this year, plus Dollarbirds, Rainbow Bea-eater and Double-eyed Fig-Parrots.<div>
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All will be calm soon enough - - - -<br /><br />
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Unknownnoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4497792450055539572.post-6373988087170653462014-01-03T16:12:00.001+10:002014-01-03T16:12:13.375+10:00Christmas in the Daintree<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
Hot and dry this Christmas and New Year, which has been fabulous for visitors and locals alike.</div>
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No mozzies, no mould and no muddy feet - very nice!</div>
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We are busy renovating at the moment - (see our blog for that <a href="http://redmillhouserenos.blogspot.com.au/">h ttp://redmillhouserenos.blogspot.com.au/</a> ) so between that and having guests in, there hasn't been much time for birding.</div>
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A quick trip out onto the Daintree River late afternoon on New Years Eve reminded us of how wonderful the river is. Magpie Geese line the banks along the farmland section, herons (Great-billed, Nankeen Night and Striated) feed in the shallows along with three types of egrets, Royal Spoonbill and two types of ibis.</div>
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Double-eyed Fig-Parrot, Wompoo Fruit-Dove enjoying the fruits and Azure Kingfisher in the mangroves.</div>
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Fabulous!</div>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjYJwoGf-LXUzkX8U1H2DPDamFHbV7d3Kwc6tXpfRs-zILQvBMjT7X13zvaWe6pFXodMPgTkoNCcLQYy_KEHAYBCDMN5bX4M74ilLDdUmCblASJFQZOtdlera7a0KCuDk2diHvFRIDPG_YF/s1600/Magpie+Goose+Oct+12.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="296" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjYJwoGf-LXUzkX8U1H2DPDamFHbV7d3Kwc6tXpfRs-zILQvBMjT7X13zvaWe6pFXodMPgTkoNCcLQYy_KEHAYBCDMN5bX4M74ilLDdUmCblASJFQZOtdlera7a0KCuDk2diHvFRIDPG_YF/s400/Magpie+Goose+Oct+12.JPG" width="400" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Magpie Goose Daintree River</td></tr>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjzvwlDvHR2qjUkKNNHOsGzJbbQSuMv6O_tZ1TuD7XrsIig2G8WjAZfESp2eFZ-tsCtt94DUubuLOAagmQJCy8GSNn0aZpfRV7M-nJLkFVii_h7TzU1Lg6hZ4VnqVBDLuzejYbD_wm2ZTVc/s1600/P1050651.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; display: inline !important; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="300" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjzvwlDvHR2qjUkKNNHOsGzJbbQSuMv6O_tZ1TuD7XrsIig2G8WjAZfESp2eFZ-tsCtt94DUubuLOAagmQJCy8GSNn0aZpfRV7M-nJLkFVii_h7TzU1Lg6hZ4VnqVBDLuzejYbD_wm2ZTVc/s400/P1050651.JPG" width="400" /></a></div>
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Great news from Bushy Creek in Julatten with Yellow-billed Kingfisher being photographed at Christmas. Papuan Frogmouth chicks seem to have all fledged successfully along the Daintree River and many birds are feeding young in the garden at Red Mill House.<br />
Will there be a wet season this year? We are all wondering.<br />
Great weather for building projects though!<br />
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<br />Unknownnoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4497792450055539572.post-76846279412037446982013-12-16T18:17:00.001+10:002013-12-16T18:17:30.765+10:00Spotted Whistling DucksHiding on the edge of the local barra ponds, well off the road, are 5 Spotted Whistling Ducks. A New Guinea species which seems to be moving south fairly rapidly, they are still a great treat to see.<br />
No photo unfortunately, they are just too far away, but they are there!Unknownnoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4497792450055539572.post-56245492215810218022013-12-08T15:10:00.001+10:002013-12-08T15:11:31.554+10:00Seed-eaters of the Daintree ValleyWhilst you may associate Daintree with it's famous World Heritage-listed rainforest, the area is well known for birds because of it's diversity.<br />
Between the rivers, mangroves, wetlands and rainforest is productive farmland which creates it's own habitats. At this time of year many of the pasture grasses are seeding, providing food for many species.<br />
Common residents, but no less beautiful because of it, include Chestnut-breasted Mannikin which travel together in large flocks, feeding, at this time of year.<br />
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<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiT1UuGukp-Z28ahjp1Xxg2NsqWB6PWnuoDVcPOvr-t-NPNaKOyrgyIUJo-T0YRsj5J6bIBRLJkGO2QKRBMOItEKZl_vAolGRESJYQ8OT1xfC-YtaK-Jq1qZAadmAENeAHBLwoBf4finLCw/s1600/Chestnut-breasted+Mannakin-3.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="222" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiT1UuGukp-Z28ahjp1Xxg2NsqWB6PWnuoDVcPOvr-t-NPNaKOyrgyIUJo-T0YRsj5J6bIBRLJkGO2QKRBMOItEKZl_vAolGRESJYQ8OT1xfC-YtaK-Jq1qZAadmAENeAHBLwoBf4finLCw/s400/Chestnut-breasted+Mannakin-3.jpg" width="400" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Chestnet-breasted Mannikin (Fred Forsell)</td></tr>
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Also resident in the local fields is Golden-headed Cisticola. Typically the breeding male attracts attention by calling from the top of fences or tall grasses and is a common sight in the fields just prior to the "Wet' season. This beautiful photo shows their demeanor perfectly.<br />
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<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjXkiKOIt32Epdvr4ilraBvyVD6H5M4M8GOR4I39OZJ6g6YFcAVJ3TTYOYSCysB7Qfc1s4IqqoQ3P18UwiZQA4SEypg444Ot3kNRABfJQiW44cwR059kpn-1Wc2oeo6Urhqc2Q9GwajTXuJ/s1600/Golden-headed+Cisticola-1.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="222" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjXkiKOIt32Epdvr4ilraBvyVD6H5M4M8GOR4I39OZJ6g6YFcAVJ3TTYOYSCysB7Qfc1s4IqqoQ3P18UwiZQA4SEypg444Ot3kNRABfJQiW44cwR059kpn-1Wc2oeo6Urhqc2Q9GwajTXuJ/s400/Golden-headed+Cisticola-1.jpg" width="400" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Golden-headed Cisticola (Fred Forsell)</td></tr>
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Everyone's favourites are fairy-wrens and the Red-backed Fairy-Wren is no exception. Widespread throughout north/eastern Australia they are often seen in the fields and on the fencelines of the Daintree Valley. The contrast of the black and flashy red of the male is easily spotted. Females are less conspicuous, but they will often be in family groups of 4 or 5 birds.<br />
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<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEisYKPltfXvBLriu7vBbTZudjZs8kN_nYoU_gDnJA6cXZ1tjWq26EYoAzsMOESqOhrYWOv40-2G1kssIxNDLRZ_YfaJeDTv4F4UnQCxui0alViM2tX3FwAogpiioT-mnb0ade6sKa_L1p5c/s1600/Red-backed+Fairy-Wren-3.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="225" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEisYKPltfXvBLriu7vBbTZudjZs8kN_nYoU_gDnJA6cXZ1tjWq26EYoAzsMOESqOhrYWOv40-2G1kssIxNDLRZ_YfaJeDTv4F4UnQCxui0alViM2tX3FwAogpiioT-mnb0ade6sKa_L1p5c/s400/Red-backed+Fairy-Wren-3.jpg" width="400" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Red-backed Fairy-Wren Male (Fred Forsell)</td></tr>
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<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgRtgB2XD6u81Pcpi8tyhXtuEEfGaQR4maeuwPAL4JYymkdjb34gVjTRZXlm40C_EXQ7U67RhfFxgENc1Hdd9clJJEQqsBqjOE95dS6NH1MvHx6xum9JVcIDyAsuw_j5aZcqH8O7cCcv0I9/s1600/Red-backed+Fairy-Wren+-+Female.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="225" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgRtgB2XD6u81Pcpi8tyhXtuEEfGaQR4maeuwPAL4JYymkdjb34gVjTRZXlm40C_EXQ7U67RhfFxgENc1Hdd9clJJEQqsBqjOE95dS6NH1MvHx6xum9JVcIDyAsuw_j5aZcqH8O7cCcv0I9/s320/Red-backed+Fairy-Wren+-+Female.jpg" width="400" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Red-backed Fairy-Wren Female (Fred Forsell)</td></tr>
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Other Daintree news includes the presence of 5 Spotted Whistling Ducks on the Daintree River! Considered outside their range, but occasional visitors, they are a treat to see.</div>
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Good numbers of Buff-breasted Paradise Kingfisher nesting along Stewart Creek Rd.</div>
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Pied Heron, Hardhead, Plumed Whistling Duck, Grey Teal at a dam on Ferraro Rd near Pt Douglas.</div>
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Pale-vented Bushhen loving the water left around from recent rains. Seen skittling across the road near Pt Douglas and locally.</div>
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The pond is full at Red Mill House so regular Azure Kingfisher, not Little unfortunately. Double-eyed Fig-Parrot, Pied Imperial Pigeon and Figbirds loving all the fruits.</div>
Unknownnoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4497792450055539572.post-71868165063483347282013-11-06T17:18:00.001+10:002013-11-06T17:18:08.285+10:00At last - Paradise Kingfishers galore!!Rather late, this year, but the Buff-breasted Paradise Kingfishers have arrived from New Guinea for the breeding season and are here in Daintree in large numbers. Particularly active and calling madly along Stewart Creek Rd - the patch of forest at the end of the road is home to at least 8 birds at present.<br />
Another 3 or 4 can be seen and heard at the beginning of the road, close to town.<br />
These birds are a favourite with everyone.<br />
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<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjNId7n2DqU4tyY9bZwRTiqArKnbN0N36BD58U-gAqDhxBmJq42R3JhWIll1Lb4SMvoe0LZWstx7wX_RG70h3RuiRHiQVFmfsi6swM_LzEiWZ2k2mGoHhHpizD_TBaoy77dVMLE0okF4Hx6/s1600/Buff-breasted+Paradise+Kingfisher.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="371" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjNId7n2DqU4tyY9bZwRTiqArKnbN0N36BD58U-gAqDhxBmJq42R3JhWIll1Lb4SMvoe0LZWstx7wX_RG70h3RuiRHiQVFmfsi6swM_LzEiWZ2k2mGoHhHpizD_TBaoy77dVMLE0okF4Hx6/s400/Buff-breasted+Paradise+Kingfisher.jpg" width="400" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Buff-breasted Paradise Kingfisher</td></tr>
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Also, in the same areas are other fabulous birds like Yellow-breasted Boatbill, Superb Fruit-Dove, Pied Monarch, Black-faced Monarch and Wompoo Fruit-Dove. Early morning seems to be the best time!<br />
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The Daintree River cruises have been spectacular lately with good sightings of nesting Great-billed Heron and Papuan Frogmouth, Cotton Pygmy Goose and Latham's Snipe, Little Kingfisher, Shining Flycatcher and many others.<br />
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<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhdTZw6HtmSlWYVIdhKc708_O851ide5WLt5XossqV-zIfqKOb-vG4GWf9fRcj70R46kGFwnah-vcGBPhArLaAaRFQ05CXshvRYlYOJ1yNJTkEC2-rs-dQYoNLfyoCB8EPVWvQYU6wv23gN/s1600/Great+Billed+Heron.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="361" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhdTZw6HtmSlWYVIdhKc708_O851ide5WLt5XossqV-zIfqKOb-vG4GWf9fRcj70R46kGFwnah-vcGBPhArLaAaRFQ05CXshvRYlYOJ1yNJTkEC2-rs-dQYoNLfyoCB8EPVWvQYU6wv23gN/s400/Great+Billed+Heron.jpg" width="400" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Great-billed Heron<br /><div style="text-align: left;">
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The garden at Red Mill house has been excellent for Azure Kingfisher, Cicadabird, a range of honeyeaters, Varied Triller and Eastern Koel.<br />
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<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj_96l15i0X_i8RLd9GlsnEpgXMuQrYuc6NlBneccQX3WooA35kWIWWDbPILU_AoBCnSvVWf8YCo_rhuQSKaFR7OmUf5b4E15IEg6-hPOyOTnG8ramKAH6F1S1Ypgyc_yq9Py18aAW9BpMn/s1600/Koel.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="346" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj_96l15i0X_i8RLd9GlsnEpgXMuQrYuc6NlBneccQX3WooA35kWIWWDbPILU_AoBCnSvVWf8YCo_rhuQSKaFR7OmUf5b4E15IEg6-hPOyOTnG8ramKAH6F1S1Ypgyc_yq9Py18aAW9BpMn/s400/Koel.JPG" width="400" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Eastern Koel Female</td></tr>
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Our two Olive-backed Sunbird nests have suffered different fates - one taken by a Black Butcherbird and the other surviving (fingers crossed) with the aid of a very unattractive 'Scarecrow' near the nest. It even frightens us when we forget it is there, but the sunnies don't seem to mind it!<br />
No photos - we may get done for defamation!!<br />
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Unknownnoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4497792450055539572.post-79609450154553557152013-10-20T14:25:00.003+10:002013-10-20T14:25:28.443+10:00What a fabulous time of year!How great is this?<br />
Warm days, warmish nights, no rain, low humidity, no mosquitoes and birds galore. It doesn't get much better than birding in Daintree and the Wet Tropics of Tropical North Queensland at this time of year.<br />
Red Mill House is full of guests from around the world and it has been great fun showing them some of our local birds.<br />
The Daintree River is always the best place for birding locally and both Murray, the Daintree Boatman, and Sauce from Daintree River Wildwatch have been having excellent runs on the river.<br />
Papuan Frogmouth are nesting in several locations, Black Bittern has returned for the season, Great-billed Heron are regularly seen, several cuckoo species, Cicadabird and many more. Little Kingfisher seems to be visible on about half the mornings.<br />
The end of Stewart Creek Rd has given us treats like Yellow-breasted Boatbill, Superb Fruit-Dove, Satin Flycatcher, all the Monarchs, Grey Whistler, Golden Whistler, Red-backed Fairywren etc.<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiGr2SpBNk4wzbty7BAXZaTTPQU4xVSttoBnqoYaApn1paMrwKIcskvGhtzkYI6GFgn7Gel26tppnqzCsvioN8BAyM87FKyITyXlO2I14MTu-2RplVMIT3n6P8P4GgaKQnNB57NTl5yklL3/s1600/Red-backed+Fairywren.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="293" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiGr2SpBNk4wzbty7BAXZaTTPQU4xVSttoBnqoYaApn1paMrwKIcskvGhtzkYI6GFgn7Gel26tppnqzCsvioN8BAyM87FKyITyXlO2I14MTu-2RplVMIT3n6P8P4GgaKQnNB57NTl5yklL3/s400/Red-backed+Fairywren.jpg" width="400" /></a></div>
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Just out of Daintree township on the first part of Stewart Creek Rd have been Lovely Fairywren, Channel-billed Cuckoo, nesting Papuan Frogmouth and nesting Double-eyed Fig-Parrot, Leaden Flycatcher, Little Bronze-Cuckoo and many more.<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh8DVhhJ_hq5Mwmhyvt7OKGbHkkneoTKaIVSV8rxn-CiB6z4rUJeAv34lEM4uuipfxdX6tYbSJfLzJlmeYechpSjxXPAF1-kBlOj5b4iMfeurXaLgzdnSE_7szDJaptoaagfSwhzsflPPgm/s1600/Little+bronze-cuckoo.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="278" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh8DVhhJ_hq5Mwmhyvt7OKGbHkkneoTKaIVSV8rxn-CiB6z4rUJeAv34lEM4uuipfxdX6tYbSJfLzJlmeYechpSjxXPAF1-kBlOj5b4iMfeurXaLgzdnSE_7szDJaptoaagfSwhzsflPPgm/s400/Little+bronze-cuckoo.jpg" width="400" /></a></div>
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North of the Daintree River there have been nice Cassowary sightings with a guest taking some of the nicest footage we have seen of two adults and little stripy chick playing in the water at Marrdja Boardwalk. Just beautiful!<br />
The Daintree Saltwater Barramundi farm are happy for birders to visit the ponds for a small fee. Many waders, raptors, terns, ducks, pelicans, egrets, stilts etc can be seen and photographed at these fish ponds.<br />
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In the gardens of Red Mill House we have a pair of Azure Kingfisher on the pond each day and we wake to the calls of Brush Cuckoo, Little Bronze-Cuckoo, Cicadabird, Yellow Oriole, Macleay's Honeyeater, Australian Koel and others each morning. It doesn't get much better!<br />
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While it is dry at present, the signs of an impending rainy season are growing. We have nine Giant White-lipped Green Tree-frogs in the lounge room, hiding behind the paintings during the day and making their way to the yard and pond after dark. Every morning at about 4am we can hear the 'plop, plop, plop' as they make their way back to the safety of the house. They are just starting to call, which is lovely - not long before they drive us mad! We love them!</div>
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All our summer migrants seem to have arrived except the much-anticipated Buff-breasted Paradise Kingfisher. A matter of days, I'm sure as a couple have been recorded passing through the region already.<br />
<br />Unknownnoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4497792450055539572.post-91894018524341542522013-09-11T16:53:00.001+10:002013-09-11T16:53:44.033+10:00Spring is in the air!After two weeks of very windy, and often wet, conditions we have beautiful sunshine and warm clear days to 30 degrees.<br />
You can hear new signs of spring every day at the moment - cuckoos lead the way.<br />
Brush Cuckoo has been calling incessantly every morning for a couple of weeks now, Australasian Koel also calling for the last week and now Channel-billed Cuckoo, our 'storm season' indicator has also arrived.<br />
Other summer migrants recent arrived include Pied Imperial Pigeons feeding on rainforest fruits, Metallic Starlings madly building their communal nests and Brown-backed Honeyeater noisily building nests and feeding in the paperbarks.<br />
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<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjdM1YqvQVnMQdYlMK6KbhvT-qFskpcl2RF_TQAhQjXbv8SFHywqIJIVi-QQ9r6sTTkww2F6WYGsNhtUFNwgCtoRDVaEkZl3DLm0ycKYtEJkPcwcMudzp4goWBWWcRnx-zm0Ig-5ULUBBS9/s1600/Koel0001.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="346" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjdM1YqvQVnMQdYlMK6KbhvT-qFskpcl2RF_TQAhQjXbv8SFHywqIJIVi-QQ9r6sTTkww2F6WYGsNhtUFNwgCtoRDVaEkZl3DLm0ycKYtEJkPcwcMudzp4goWBWWcRnx-zm0Ig-5ULUBBS9/s400/Koel0001.JPG" width="400" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Female Australasian Koel</td></tr>
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Other wonderful birds at present in the garden at Red Mill House include monarchs - Black-faced Monarch, Spectacled Monarch and our endemic Pied Monarch. Satin and Leaden Flycatcher complete the flycatcher types enjoying the plentiful insects after some reasonable rain in the last couple of weeks.It is a fabulous time of year in the Daintree as new growth abounds on rainforest trees and the figs are fruiting.<br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEggLwt9OOnRfEuG7sqINIyXEs_SrdSlAGSrXAl-RdoyOqoMHb51LbGAEbYl5gz71TwaNuIlBQdSWdoN9gfctIb-fvgRwmmDlBLemnObw-DyG-XyEeEdCZdWJcnRnYgBXS4Vf2NL_C9363TS/s1600/Specteceled+Monarch00011.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="290" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEggLwt9OOnRfEuG7sqINIyXEs_SrdSlAGSrXAl-RdoyOqoMHb51LbGAEbYl5gz71TwaNuIlBQdSWdoN9gfctIb-fvgRwmmDlBLemnObw-DyG-XyEeEdCZdWJcnRnYgBXS4Vf2NL_C9363TS/s400/Specteceled+Monarch00011.JPG" width="400" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Spectacled Monarch</td></tr>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi2-1vMgFPhc3tRKQCESr7-HUbllscFY29dgebWTHHQA1mybrCz5sGGSw_c6l9kaGBNV4JQ_ggqZPurdAw5DQUuX2RVOYzboceTY6V1Lm3bVqEtjPWZuaZscAGb1DCf-BldYmhVuZw4ZI7T/s1600/Pied+Monarch0001.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="326" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi2-1vMgFPhc3tRKQCESr7-HUbllscFY29dgebWTHHQA1mybrCz5sGGSw_c6l9kaGBNV4JQ_ggqZPurdAw5DQUuX2RVOYzboceTY6V1Lm3bVqEtjPWZuaZscAGb1DCf-BldYmhVuZw4ZI7T/s400/Pied+Monarch0001.JPG" width="400" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Pied Monarch</td></tr>
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Other sightings on the Daintree River include Lathams Snipe, Papuan Frogmouth, Australian Reed-Warbler and Great-billed Heron preparing for nesting.<br />
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The local roads in the Daintree Valley have been very productive also - all the herons, Black-necked Stork, Black-fronted Dotterel, Australian Pipit, Royal Spoonbill, Glossy Ibis and many more. Red-backed Fairy Wrens have been seen carrying nesting material. A favourite for everyone is the flocks of Chestnut-breasted Mannikins feeding on the seed heads of grasses in the fields. Such fun to watch!<br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgKU-bBX-fleUjzAbbMWK0Sa6lP9AE2VOb8tU5aoeNSB96SuKGDXbhU-O-WS8OpGzzAhEzRM6-0dxKYoxZPKA5mR1EehtnNz0CeHjrv0QHRAA3AGSHffvPWf-CGFxWV97dzT2UaWNdQioSE/s1600/Chestnut-breasted+Manikin000110.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="375" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgKU-bBX-fleUjzAbbMWK0Sa6lP9AE2VOb8tU5aoeNSB96SuKGDXbhU-O-WS8OpGzzAhEzRM6-0dxKYoxZPKA5mR1EehtnNz0CeHjrv0QHRAA3AGSHffvPWf-CGFxWV97dzT2UaWNdQioSE/s400/Chestnut-breasted+Manikin000110.JPG" width="400" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Chestnut-breasted Mannikin</td></tr>
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<br />Unknownnoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4497792450055539572.post-75702439158245219372013-08-01T17:01:00.000+10:002013-08-01T17:01:14.456+10:00Winter birding magic!It's such a nice time of year to be birding in the Daintree.<br />
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The Daintree River has been very productive with early morning river cruises offering good views of Great-billed Heron, Papuan Frogmouth, Azure Kingfisher and even sightings of White-eared Monarch.<br />
A few of the strangler figs are fruiting profusely, and on Stewart Creek Rd there have been good numbers of Black-faced Cuckoo Shrike, Barred Cuckoo Shrike, Topnknot Pigeon and Metallic Starling enjoying the fruits.<br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiwlTDgSmJ7Dx_6DGrLJKRbcacvFGLTsOq2xw14hswElt0DKUbuxmg2htaoxZ7DiiMD9h1OkVV-nh2ozfrV7TQi7Ph5GYer-1aL-CtFvwNelw9s1tGVjYFC8D2srUdr0ajVvtkpyo835Kv-/s1600/Topknot+Pigeon.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="235" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiwlTDgSmJ7Dx_6DGrLJKRbcacvFGLTsOq2xw14hswElt0DKUbuxmg2htaoxZ7DiiMD9h1OkVV-nh2ozfrV7TQi7Ph5GYer-1aL-CtFvwNelw9s1tGVjYFC8D2srUdr0ajVvtkpyo835Kv-/s400/Topknot+Pigeon.JPG" width="400" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Topknot Pigeon</td></tr>
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Excellent sightings of Southern Cassowary, Victoria's Riflebird and Bridled Honeyeater north of the Daintree River.<br />
Great daily sightings of Little Kingfisher in the pond at Red Mill House, plus Double-eyed Fig-Parrot, Black-faced Monarch and Wompoo Fruit-Dove in the garden.<br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhH1TyfnXdoxldzE3w_awzDbDWpybi_Np_KhnpSqNxGY-f_0gNmykhJ3NynXyy8PZQOIBTWgnRHxA5dlmC8E6DigQB1JPJEWteSmvPVTXcorDdZzqeZaMIY0Tl2xLLALgqq6FETfXrtMPJC/s1600/Alcedo_pusilla_1+Daintree+Village.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhH1TyfnXdoxldzE3w_awzDbDWpybi_Np_KhnpSqNxGY-f_0gNmykhJ3NynXyy8PZQOIBTWgnRHxA5dlmC8E6DigQB1JPJEWteSmvPVTXcorDdZzqeZaMIY0Tl2xLLALgqq6FETfXrtMPJC/s400/Alcedo_pusilla_1+Daintree+Village.jpg" width="400" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Little Kingfisher</td></tr>
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Macleay's Honeyeater, Spangled Drongo and Helmeted Friarbird are all enjoying the small quantities of banana on the feeders each day.<br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiFsqQ_CzphomO7R2i4e_TULhcoDn1f26qgO9fIL7zgHXVOUdmPQwcgQ1IPOZvp3qK6hIRMdTJ4zyN-LQKAexujFXJ_fMuBobBZSPZx5-ojFwhKcxQ3twaEwZ5odKKXb-_mpFDAqvBimUzW/s1600/Macleay's+Honeyeater.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="300" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiFsqQ_CzphomO7R2i4e_TULhcoDn1f26qgO9fIL7zgHXVOUdmPQwcgQ1IPOZvp3qK6hIRMdTJ4zyN-LQKAexujFXJ_fMuBobBZSPZx5-ojFwhKcxQ3twaEwZ5odKKXb-_mpFDAqvBimUzW/s400/Macleay's+Honeyeater.JPG" width="400" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Macleay's Honeyeater</td></tr>
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The nectar-rich, bright red Calliandra flowers are a great attraction for the nectar feeders, particularly Olive- backed Sunbird, which are plentiful at the moment, and the honeyeaters.<br />
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Unknownnoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4497792450055539572.post-16810030275142151252013-07-08T16:26:00.000+10:002013-07-08T16:26:25.172+10:00Back in beautiful Daintree at last!After 3 months holiday - 6 weeks in South America and then six weeks driving into central Australia and back, it is great to be back in Daintree with the familiar lush green rainforest, warm winter's days and our local very special birds.<br />
Highlights from Bolivia included a four day hike from the freezing cold Andes at 5,,000metres down into the sub-tropical Yungas at 2000m, just out of La Paz. Hard on the knees and much more difficult than we imagined but a fabulous experience and our first sighting of the Andean Cock-of-the-Rock, which was on life's 'wish list'.<br />
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">El Choro Trek Bolivia </td></tr>
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Many birding highlights of Ecuador, but the day in the company of Mr Angel Paz at his farm, watching him interact with Antpittas, Cock-of-the-Rock, hummers, Toucanets etc was magic. An ex hunter who now has a refuge for wildlife, he provides opportunities to see many of the more difficult birds, and in a most delightful manner.<br />
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Toucan Barbet</td></tr>
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Home for a day, packed the ute and then headed off camping to Central Australia. Great weather, great country and some great birds including this Western Bowerbird at Ormiston Gorge in the West Macdonnell Ranges.<br />
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Western Bowerbird</td></tr>
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Camping in the bush on the Plenty Highway between Boulia and Alice Springs. No caravans - yeah!!!<br />
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Back to Daintree, which is about as good as it gets in mid winter!<br />
Busy here for the school holidays, particularly with day visitors from Cairns and Port Douglas. For those lucky enough to stay overnight in Daintree the birdlife is fantastic. There have been 5 different kingfishers on the Daintree River, seen from the early morning boat tours, plus favourites like Great-billed Heron and Papuan Frogmouth.<br />
The Little Kingfisher feeds on the pond at Red Mill House each day and Spangled Drongo, Pacific Baza and Brown Cuckoo Dove frequent the yard.<br />
Nice winter specials here in the lowlands include Brown Falcon, seen on the Mossman-Daintree Rd, Lewin's Honeyeater, Pacific Baza, Victoria's Riflebird and Black-faced Monarch.<br />
Southern Cassowary seen on Cape Kimberly Rd, Wompoo Fruit-Dove nesting on Stewart Creek Rd and the first Pied Imperial Pigeons recently seen, presumably returning from PNG for the breeding season. Metallic Starling also returned and busy as can be.<br />
It's nice to be home!!Unknownnoreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4497792450055539572.post-76314906120284105072013-03-31T11:33:00.000+10:002013-03-31T11:33:32.290+10:00Last days<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
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Our last few days before packing up to go to South America for 6 weeks - just Bolivia and Ecuador, but think of the birds - - - -!</div>
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Some good 'wet season' rain at last in Daintree this week and the sun is out again, so the wonderful butterflies, frogs and birds all appear. It has been fabulous.</div>
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Little Kingfisher and Azure Kingfisher on the now-full pond at Red Mill House. Pied Monarch, Buff-breasted Paradise Kingfisher and Double-eyed Fig-Parrot also in the garden.</div>
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White-browed Robin (a newy for us) at the end of Stewart Creek Rd.</div>
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Papuan Frogmouth and Barn Owl feeding at night along Stewart Creek Rd. Unfortunately Ellen Terrell also picked up a dead Sooty Owl from the road at Wonga.</div>
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Pink-eared Duck at the Barra Farm at Wonga.</div>
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Wompoo Fruit-Dove nesting again near the Ergon Track on Stewart Creek Rd.</div>
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Victoria's Riflebird, Nankeen Night-Heron and Great-billed Heron all spotted on the Daintree River this afternoon. An amazing sight this afternoon as we drifted into the bywash to watch a Great-billed Heron perched up high and calling for 10 minutes. Neck stretching upward and outward then distending as the deep, throaty booming is emitted. Extraordinary!! This is when you wish you had a good camera.</div>
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Great-billed Heron calling Daintree River March 2013</td></tr>
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<span id="goog_419282030"></span><span id="goog_419282031"></span>All the good wet season birds (and frogs!) are very active - Red-necked Crake, Pale-vented Bushhen, Black-necked Stork, Little Kingfisher, Azure Kingfisher - just to name a few.</div>
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Great views of Southern Cassoawary near Maardja Boardwalk yesterday morning. What a beautiful bird!!</div>
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Southern Cassowary Miki Dengel Mar 2013</td></tr>
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We're off for a few weeks, but will do quick update in mid-May.</div>
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If you want to see what is happening on our South American trip check out the following Blog:</div>
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Have fun!!</div>
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<br />Unknownnoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4497792450055539572.post-29535251437709568952013-03-07T06:45:00.001+10:002013-03-07T06:45:47.025+10:00A crazy 'wet' seasonTo date we have had less than 700mm of rain for the year, which for lowland rainforest, in the wet season, is extraordinarily low. We normally would have had close to 2 metres of rain.<br />
It has been hot and humid with isolated thunderstorms - some of which have been spectacular.<br />
Trees are flowering, thinking the 'wet' is over, and birds (like the Rainbow Bee-eater) are returning early - it is a little crazy.<br />
A great time for birding locally though, with a lot of activity as the Buff-breasted Paradise Kingfishers feed their fledglings. <br />
This photo is of a young stray a few years ago who came for worms off the verandah. Sweet thing!<br />
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<tr><td class="tr-caption">"BUFFY" 2007</td></tr>
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Good numbers of Black Bittern on the Daintree River and a family of Great-billed Heron near the bywash. Hard-head, Wandering Whistling-Ducks, returning Egrets, Black-necked Stork and Black-fronted Dotterel on the river banks.</div>
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Lots of rainforest figs in fruit at the moment, so excellent for Double-eyed Fig-Parrot, Channel-billed Cuckoo, Eastern Koel, figbirds, starlings etc. Dollarbird hawking in the streets of Daintree.</div>
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Little Kingfisher and Azure Kingfisher in local waterways.</div>
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Despite being rather uncomfortable conditions, it is a great time for birding in Daintree.</div>
Unknownnoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4497792450055539572.post-33610754293432167072013-02-08T07:15:00.001+10:002013-02-08T07:15:36.377+10:00The Daintree RiverAfter a good clean-out from last month's rain, the Daintree River is looking fabulous. The water is clear, the Barramundi fishing season is open and recreational fisherman are endeavouring to catch this prized fighting (and eating) fish.<br />
It's also a great time for birds on the Daintree River.<br />
A trip out in 'the tinny' on Weds morning gave us excellent views of the Great Billed Heron, Black Bittern, Shining Flycatcher, Yellow Oriole and many more. The tide was a little high for Kingfishers.<br />
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Great-billed Heron Feb 12 (Trish Forsyth)</td></tr>
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Other good sightings in the area include Spotted Whistling Ducks, Latham's Snipe, loads of Magpie Goose, Red-necked Crake and Pale-vented Bush-Hen. Having some water lying around in the fields at last is excellent for these birds.<br />
Wonderful weather - you wouldn't believe it is meant to be the 'Wet Season'.Unknownnoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4497792450055539572.post-17552577026537080572013-01-22T11:59:00.000+10:002013-01-22T11:59:31.847+10:00The rainy seasonAfter a comparatively dry 2012 (2830ml), this year's "wet" season is off to a good start. A monsoonal low on Cape York is bringing good rains to the Daintree (200ml+ in the past 4 days), filling the wetlands and flushing the Daintree River. No flooding yet but, the ground is now saturated so, continued heavy rains will cause local flooding.<br />
Excellent for birding though, with Pale-vented Bushhen frolicking in drains along the side of the road, Red-necked Crake calling at night and both Little and Azure Kingfishers returning to their traditional spots (including Red Mill House pond) after the breeding season.<br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj_YpMLHj8unqLMjBSm62WeGxemtajsjvuEaeX5KcZLKTox1AkUbKjH4_jtNgdTbcDoLAAat7lnYMNpS7TYvIubiDswh8-S4QAqBzFOqGLr5P8dV78HK2rVlriG8bLUK6CnpNo73AJYOPbU/s1600/IMG_5797.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="266" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj_YpMLHj8unqLMjBSm62WeGxemtajsjvuEaeX5KcZLKTox1AkUbKjH4_jtNgdTbcDoLAAat7lnYMNpS7TYvIubiDswh8-S4QAqBzFOqGLr5P8dV78HK2rVlriG8bLUK6CnpNo73AJYOPbU/s400/IMG_5797.jpg" width="400" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Azure Kingfisher (Russell Jones)<br /></td></tr>
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A visit to Maardja Boardwalk last week gave us two sightings of Little Kingfisher, and three separate sightings of Southern Cassowary were reported yesterday north of the Daintree River.<br />
A large flock of Wandering Whistling Duck (40+) flying over Daintree Village each evening, and several hundred Magpie Goose are still in the area - roosting near Barratt Creek and feeding in the fields throughout the valley.<br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhuzcJFZlmYL6y3KUWpPxeBZdBsOAfNv35iHJAPrzmEAf0lo04gc-V82aQWpS_vFlu7m-jkSzs-94d1Z1DfGmEYIGifQZ88OOxDkm3X90VmFbMXrpQIzGxWEmXtepXaW411dy7QTB0slo9U/s1600/Magpie+Goose+Oct+12.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="296" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhuzcJFZlmYL6y3KUWpPxeBZdBsOAfNv35iHJAPrzmEAf0lo04gc-V82aQWpS_vFlu7m-jkSzs-94d1Z1DfGmEYIGifQZ88OOxDkm3X90VmFbMXrpQIzGxWEmXtepXaW411dy7QTB0slo9U/s400/Magpie+Goose+Oct+12.JPG" width="400" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Magpie Goose (T.Forsyth)</td></tr>
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The perils of the rainy season, unfortunately, are obvious. The Papuan Frogmouth nest we have been watching has had a large branch fall on it during the rain. We are not sure of the result.Unknownnoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4497792450055539572.post-50223134716836749902013-01-08T13:28:00.000+10:002013-01-08T13:28:27.235+10:00The perils of the breeding seasonConditions are good and fruit is plentiful in the Daintree rainforest at this time of year and, to coincide with this, many birds are breeding before the wetter and more difficult conditions arrive.<br />
A Yellow Oriole nest we have been faithfully watching in the garden struck problems a couple of days ago when the single chick left the nest too early - it seems it could 'fly' downwards, but not upwards! After us picking him up and popping him on a branch, Mum and Dad continued to follow him around, feed him and protect him. Fingers crossed they still doing it, despite us not seeing him today. The Black Butcherbirds are feeding their own young at present and are ferocious predators.<br />
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Yellow Oriole fledgling Jan 13</td></tr>
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Hatched and going well (and in great form) are this family of Spangled Drongo juveniles. Mum was sitting nearby, looking pretty tired - all those mouths to feed! 4 healthy and hungry babies.<br />
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Spangled Drongo Jan 13</td></tr>
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At the other end of the scale, we chanced upon a pair of Wompoo Fruit-Dove just building their nest, along Stewart Creek Rd. A precarious nest at the best of times, with only a shallow platform of a few sticks. The ritual of 'passing the stick' is beautiful to watch though. Good luck to them!<br />
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Wompoo Fruit-Dove Jan 12</td></tr>
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A quick trip out on the Daintree River and up Stewart Creek with friend and birding guide Ellen Terrell, yesterday evening, yielded a great haul of very special birds. Great-billed Heron, several Black Bittern, Nankeen Night-Heron, Papuan Frogmouth and chick, Azure Kingfisher, Wompoo Fruit-Dove, and many, many more. It was a great pleasure to be there.<br />
Still plenty of Magpie Geese feeding in the fields during the day, plus a flock of about 40 Wandering Whistling Duck and 7 Hardhead. Still looking for the Spotted Whistling Ducks!<br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj_DnAj8Xem_C2mNPN7gyhDRn1LI6qH4pWo5gGpLJehBe54Oer122mYKLfXkFWOVLpbMK0tqdw7tNLbeMnK5HXghKbTA81dUX7FmOIj-SxloK3C4PxAqrfx4SsYRaXvCQgE59e7wCdmSphb/s1600/P1000952.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="300" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj_DnAj8Xem_C2mNPN7gyhDRn1LI6qH4pWo5gGpLJehBe54Oer122mYKLfXkFWOVLpbMK0tqdw7tNLbeMnK5HXghKbTA81dUX7FmOIj-SxloK3C4PxAqrfx4SsYRaXvCQgE59e7wCdmSphb/s400/P1000952.JPG" width="400" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Magpie Geese Daintree River Jan 13</td></tr>
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Red-necked Crake in the garden at Red Mill House (a summer treat) and Pale-vented Bushhen frolicking in a drain opposite the town rubbish tip. (sorry - - Waste Transfer Station!)Unknownnoreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4497792450055539572.post-32244339672640044042012-12-31T16:23:00.002+10:002012-12-31T16:23:19.139+10:00The Wet beginsAs predicted, the delightful low-humidity days have finished after we received 80 ml of rain on Christmas Eve. Steamy days and warm nights for a while now.<br />
The pond in full again and the frogs have abandoned the house in favour of their mating grounds. The pond is a favourite place, plus the swimming pool and any water features around the garden. Their persistent calling at night can be quite bothersome to the uninitiated. To us it is the soothing sounds of the Wet Season.<br />
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<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhBowphq560ASGiLJ6imicEt6UqhF6YGI7ByQmD2Z8uAj60itAn9lrGqiltbTwwqBoSB-gHLLgjVH-n4c-sQt1GpIVR8eFYx0i4MFYLXjJVPCrABvInPM1MsoWANZ2W4mRz0sjO6oejodfO/s1600/P1000915.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="298" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhBowphq560ASGiLJ6imicEt6UqhF6YGI7ByQmD2Z8uAj60itAn9lrGqiltbTwwqBoSB-gHLLgjVH-n4c-sQt1GpIVR8eFYx0i4MFYLXjJVPCrABvInPM1MsoWANZ2W4mRz0sjO6oejodfO/s400/P1000915.JPG" width="400" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Litoria Leseuri</td></tr>
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Birding is still good in Daintree at present. The Buff-breasted Paradise Kingfisher are at their nesting mounds,and while they are quieter, you can usually find a bird perched high up, not far from the nest. There appears to be at least three pairs along the first section of Stewart Creek Rd.<br />
Papuan Frogmouth chicks seem to have all fledged, making them more difficult to see, but sightings of Little Kingfisher are happening and Black Bittern, Great-billed Heron and most of the other Daintree River specialities have been seen on early morning boat trips.<br />
Latham's Snipe are feeding on the riverbanks and fields, plenty of Little Egret, Royal Spoonbill, ibis, cormorants and Magpie Geese along the banks of the Daintree River.<br />
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<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhqopB3KTlXzs1vkz02V6uZFsVH76wlUkLVZYE_R3PY957CqZ7pOh9Zw4U7ymO9jQWeHE2t0kyJdX4kgm6tClN2RwFPi2mfV953tENogLbaRyx06dgDAJBp1P2fJFmYTVFVmpJua93AY1Xy/s1600/P1000860.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="336" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhqopB3KTlXzs1vkz02V6uZFsVH76wlUkLVZYE_R3PY957CqZ7pOh9Zw4U7ymO9jQWeHE2t0kyJdX4kgm6tClN2RwFPi2mfV953tENogLbaRyx06dgDAJBp1P2fJFmYTVFVmpJua93AY1Xy/s400/P1000860.JPG" width="400" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Royal Spoonbill</td></tr>
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Double-eyed Fig-Parrots are excavataing nests in the garden at Red Mill House and our favourite pair of Yellow Oriole are feeding just one chick on a nest very close to the front verandah.<br />
A quick camping trip over Christmas to Malanda Falls was a lovely break with visits to favourite places like Mt Hypipamee, Curtain Fig, Lake Barrine. Great highland birds and very good views of Lumholtz Tree Kangaroo near the falls.<br />
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<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg5COqnfhqcQCT-BvOR6euwqTCqSMt07hmMvBju-sImyQ9k1EPVSEKnYqVE15iEBNc7qQRv0jF37Veb-_RspliYaqBCcyllf3XVNGiShLHZwfkkrXSPXLmlqQ0UCtlHO7emxo1X8SVcM2DG/s1600/tree+roo+dec+12.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="400" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg5COqnfhqcQCT-BvOR6euwqTCqSMt07hmMvBju-sImyQ9k1EPVSEKnYqVE15iEBNc7qQRv0jF37Veb-_RspliYaqBCcyllf3XVNGiShLHZwfkkrXSPXLmlqQ0UCtlHO7emxo1X8SVcM2DG/s400/tree+roo+dec+12.jpg" width="300" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Lumholtz Tree Kangaroo.</td></tr>
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Eye level, sitting quietly for ages and in daylight. An absolute treat!<br />
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<b>HAPPY NEW YEAR TO ALL!!!!</b></div>
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<br />Unknownnoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4497792450055539572.post-993808599199619492012-12-14T11:43:00.002+10:002012-12-14T11:45:58.854+10:00Last of the "Dry Season"An unusual December in tropical Daintree with humid and warm weather but without the build-up of storms to date. Conditions are dry, leaves are falling, wetlands are shrinking and birds are seeking what water they can find. Even muddy, cow-filled ponds are attractive to some.<br />
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<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEivdBIQ6PR4RgbhDtwBQMeny367zQ9PnGEYpD73_0e7oOP7zCwc-lZZKGZUyeiBf2FoPEBJJRqte3gcVOLgFkR5oBmhXHxI-AymFWhHTMEYKIZZRkp_Y_VaUF9jK1cH696YTEgwWhlgFsbn/s1600/P1000780+-+Copy.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="300" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEivdBIQ6PR4RgbhDtwBQMeny367zQ9PnGEYpD73_0e7oOP7zCwc-lZZKGZUyeiBf2FoPEBJJRqte3gcVOLgFkR5oBmhXHxI-AymFWhHTMEYKIZZRkp_Y_VaUF9jK1cH696YTEgwWhlgFsbn/s400/P1000780+-+Copy.JPG" width="400" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Glossy Ibis and Royal Spoonbill Daintree Dec 12</td></tr>
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Large numbers of Magpie Goose are feeding in the fields on the banks of the Daintree River and passing overhead the village each morning and night as they roost along Barratt Creek. Their presence is not going un-noticed by at least one of the local Crocodiles!<br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhRwExDw-oGk9dR-4SQFXEgoI8d6RlNnf2n4o7Bu4KCI8jZau1PyR9HwuDuXbVJwFDON4_p2XE2ix6NCj3mzPpI2pRtodRFQnG3PKVjfhgjMVhyphenhyphenp_6IjPTFN77KDKtc8nuqgO0de_ZC_Duu/s1600/P1000790+-+Copy.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="300" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhRwExDw-oGk9dR-4SQFXEgoI8d6RlNnf2n4o7Bu4KCI8jZau1PyR9HwuDuXbVJwFDON4_p2XE2ix6NCj3mzPpI2pRtodRFQnG3PKVjfhgjMVhyphenhyphenp_6IjPTFN77KDKtc8nuqgO0de_ZC_Duu/s400/P1000790+-+Copy.JPG" width="400" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Magpie Geese Daintree River Dec 12</td></tr>
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Great bird sightings in Daintree including a nesting Papuan Frogmouth with chick on Stewart Creek Rd, Cicadabird, Buff-breasted Paradise Kingfisher, Oriental Cuckoo, Great-billed Heron, Azure Kingfisher and many more.<br />
In the gardens at Red Mill House a large Terminalia is fruiting, proving very popular with Australasian Figbird, Eastern Koel and Pied Imperial-Pigeon.<br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg5MMpvzMQMmMNuZZw5TI3hC80La0olX1rlKO8_uBMwuCVJ0aOU5S8FDdxLbpySc1XN-Oxo7NkFp7bD3r-VvWGwXN3bVohka7UYKgoPn0Da0dQiuUm7hcDeW5sV5_iGe6HlOmN8Zgh-KZ7n/s1600/P1000827+-+Copy.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="256" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg5MMpvzMQMmMNuZZw5TI3hC80La0olX1rlKO8_uBMwuCVJ0aOU5S8FDdxLbpySc1XN-Oxo7NkFp7bD3r-VvWGwXN3bVohka7UYKgoPn0Da0dQiuUm7hcDeW5sV5_iGe6HlOmN8Zgh-KZ7n/s400/P1000827+-+Copy.JPG" width="400" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Pied Imperial Pigeon Red Mill House Dec 12</td></tr>
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A fabulous time of year for frogs, and therefore snakes. Guests shared the swimming pool with this delightful Common Green Tree-Snake last week, who just missed his frog.<br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi5CWnDkfNHTVxu7MXDcNwk-DcWIUhe-EIhIf9fdvp4gaqAV7wfTsCts6EOvlXGODLNyMrMDFyd_zP4BaqaTt4IBWeghNK-7FGnSDs-s7w8M-RpL4kLilsz4d4nK8GY52FMBtMTczaW1DN_/s1600/P1000759+-+Copy.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="300" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi5CWnDkfNHTVxu7MXDcNwk-DcWIUhe-EIhIf9fdvp4gaqAV7wfTsCts6EOvlXGODLNyMrMDFyd_zP4BaqaTt4IBWeghNK-7FGnSDs-s7w8M-RpL4kLilsz4d4nK8GY52FMBtMTczaW1DN_/s400/P1000759+-+Copy.JPG" width="400" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Common Green Tree-Snake Red Mill House Dec 12</td></tr>
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Also looking for a feed has been this beautiful Amethystine Python - an absolute favourite with guests<br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEii6nV28fD_hTdkNK1j501t5fukY6JxMUigGJm2ZjHKibB0OBqGe9mpNnFMmyCcYu16a3Yhi_sslyWGtjkUvTaImCwiKsolmgzzPL3pGU34FZtXeUUtDuu7UuJjGo7D04ybYyOJ52npuDRp/s1600/P1000753+-+Copy.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="293" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEii6nV28fD_hTdkNK1j501t5fukY6JxMUigGJm2ZjHKibB0OBqGe9mpNnFMmyCcYu16a3Yhi_sslyWGtjkUvTaImCwiKsolmgzzPL3pGU34FZtXeUUtDuu7UuJjGo7D04ybYyOJ52npuDRp/s400/P1000753+-+Copy.JPG" width="400" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Amethystine Python Red Mill House Dec 12</td></tr>
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The rains will come soon enough - for now we are enjoying the wildlife treats that we have.<br />
<br />Unknownnoreply@blogger.com0Red Mill House Daintree Queensland Australia-16.251593732779515 145.31839370727539-16.266838232779516 145.29865270727538 -16.236349232779514 145.3381347072754tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4497792450055539572.post-57969670152458459522012-11-29T11:37:00.000+10:002012-11-29T11:37:12.169+10:00Kingfishers and much more!<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
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This is prime birdwatching time in Daintree and beyond. The weather is becoming warmer and there has been little rain (which means no mosquitoes) and the birds are becoming very visible around sources of water, whether it be a birdbath in the back garden and reducing wetland areas. It is a great time of year.<br />
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The Buff-breasted Paradise Kingfishers have paired up and started excavating the termite mounds.<br />
This beautiful one is a regular at the end of Stewart Creek Rd, where at least three pairs are beginning to nest. Another two pairs are at the top of the same road, with at least two more just beyond Harlow's Bridge.<br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEih_hTjHaavi1bfCBegKyWL2M5ANBKgYYc2CxW8HvYD_V7mj-ZDrkmQRmGFTJfp3AKoFWPhkgoP9clQN1EFKPnew_KLqm3UP3l8O5eD4tSk6svYersig6sQW4jKS23d0B-ZoPi5Y3PScbhw/s1600/Buff-breasted+paradise+kingfisher.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="400" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEih_hTjHaavi1bfCBegKyWL2M5ANBKgYYc2CxW8HvYD_V7mj-ZDrkmQRmGFTJfp3AKoFWPhkgoP9clQN1EFKPnew_KLqm3UP3l8O5eD4tSk6svYersig6sQW4jKS23d0B-ZoPi5Y3PScbhw/s400/Buff-breasted+paradise+kingfisher.jpg" width="322" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Buff-breasted Paradise Kingfisher - S. Isoe Nov 12</td></tr>
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Papuan Frogmouth appear to be breeding successfully this year with 4 young spotted at different nests along the Daintree River. No sign of one on this nest a week ago. Brilliant disguise as always.<br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgebR2_Ovd2Q0K9bKTOmxVmlx0MUUL2knYIV3N8LoaBDllG5xtqPAPFdBwUwf8GqFBSZHX02M4MAnaCxkDqZfzky5FVQ2yT26iE-tQObs269AtwC-Fcbtz0rFfGGLshBkTw9BOFtWBsxRP0/s1600/Papuan+frogmouth.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="271" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgebR2_Ovd2Q0K9bKTOmxVmlx0MUUL2knYIV3N8LoaBDllG5xtqPAPFdBwUwf8GqFBSZHX02M4MAnaCxkDqZfzky5FVQ2yT26iE-tQObs269AtwC-Fcbtz0rFfGGLshBkTw9BOFtWBsxRP0/s400/Papuan+frogmouth.jpg" width="400" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Papuan Frogmouth - S.Isoe Nov 12</td></tr>
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Fairy-Wrens are making appearances all over, it seems, in quite large family groups. A group of Lovely Fairy-Wren are spending a lot of time between the bird-baths of Red Mill House and the overflow from the Daintree water supply tank. Another two groups are near the end of Stewart Creek Rd.<br />
Red-backed Fairy-Wren, along with Golden-headed Cisticola, Tawny Grassbird and Chestnut-breasted Mannikin inhabit the grasslands just past the Harlow's Bridge.<br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj60rowpxRbZhOpDL_iRfA7deiFjDnHPYKX6Eu4G01q8J_qX0wnRuV1dtUCpg2Vk3KAPo-udQRI2St5hbnummJMhOSm-iUYV4WnwYfisjBq1eUbqSTbt-tJBqth233-kib3Y_y_V6u8AdxP/s1600/Red-backed+Fairywren.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="293" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj60rowpxRbZhOpDL_iRfA7deiFjDnHPYKX6Eu4G01q8J_qX0wnRuV1dtUCpg2Vk3KAPo-udQRI2St5hbnummJMhOSm-iUYV4WnwYfisjBq1eUbqSTbt-tJBqth233-kib3Y_y_V6u8AdxP/s400/Red-backed+Fairywren.jpg" width="400" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Male Red-backed Fairy-Wren - S. Isoe Nov 12</td></tr>
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Other great birds in Daintree this week include Black Bittern, Cotton Pygmy-Goose, Wompoo Fruit-Dove, Double-eyed Fig-Parrott and Scaly-breasted Lorikeet.</div>
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Thanks to Isoe-san for the use of his beautiful photos.</div>
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<br />Unknownnoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4497792450055539572.post-81538458281472455332012-11-17T16:13:00.000+10:002012-11-17T16:14:46.508+10:00Eclipse 2012 plus great birdwatching<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
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What an amazing event the 2012 Total Solar Eclipse in Far North Queensland was! </div>
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People came from far and wide, up to 50,000 extra people in the region we hear - from the seriously scientific to the seriously whacky, to the seriously obsessed. Some had been planning this for years and many had travelled half way around the world to see it.</div>
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The build-up to the event was full of anxiety as people jockeyed for positions to get the perfect view - the tropics in 'build-up' season is far from reliable weather-wise, and by being just after sunrise it didn't allow people to move to another location at the spur of the moment. So, lots of anxious moments when waking to cloud in the east that morning!</div>
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The Total Eclipse itself lasted for a little over two minutes and was amazing - if you think you have seen it all by viewing a partial eclipse before, you are seriously wrong! The darkness, the drop in temperature, the shadows, that moment when you can take your silly glasses off and look directly at the sun, the sudden brightness when the sun emerges - it is like nothing else. Truly amazing. Even the biggest cynics (aka Andrew) were converted!</div>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjD6HRdpzDjp7yAY3_o_Wb_PqooGDzyTmqkMZKx1mYPnpGw6I4PMcznR2l92dOlirbJCAadk5R2MWgo5JmnaRa4nqq827kobet_2KvDt6bSDAcDvBNP8fUHtzJyjF3RHW778soqO8xYZHGT/s1600/P1030998+-+Copy.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="300" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjD6HRdpzDjp7yAY3_o_Wb_PqooGDzyTmqkMZKx1mYPnpGw6I4PMcznR2l92dOlirbJCAadk5R2MWgo5JmnaRa4nqq827kobet_2KvDt6bSDAcDvBNP8fUHtzJyjF3RHW778soqO8xYZHGT/s400/P1030998+-+Copy.JPG" width="400" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Red Mill House guests at the mouth of the Daintree River Nov 14 2012</td></tr>
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Red Mill House guests all went with Sauce to the mouth of the Daintree River where we were on our own. We had great views of the moon coming over, but then as totality arrived a big black cloud came over - - - - - - it broke just long enough for us to ooh and aah and have a good look then clouded over again.</div>
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Those who were further inland got uninterrupted views. Phil Hart (who is staying at Red Mill House at the moment) was delighted to get the NASA Astronomy Photo of the Day with this wonderful image of the 'diamond ring' below.</div>
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<a href="http://philhart.com/content/solar-eclipse-queensland-14th-november-2012" target="_blank">http://philhart.com/content/solar-eclipse-queensland-14th-november-2012</a></div>
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It is not worth messing around with little cameras, there is just not enough time. Leave it to the experts!!</div>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://philhart.com/files/PhilHart_6999_650px.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="400" src="http://philhart.com/files/PhilHart_6999_650px.jpg" width="400" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Phil Hart Total Solar Eclipse FNQ Nov 2012</td></tr>
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Another classic image from Phil.</div>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://philhart.com/files/PhilHart_Corona_650px.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="400" src="http://philhart.com/files/PhilHart_Corona_650px.jpg" width="400" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Phil Hart Total Solar Eclipse FNQ Nov 2012</td></tr>
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Now to birds!! A number of Eclipse-followers are birders, so it has been busy in Daintree, with a wonderful couple of weeks of birding locally.<br />
Yellow-breasted Boatbill, Pied Monarch, Buff-breasted Paradise Kingfisher and King Parrot in the rainforest. Brown Quail, Red-backed Fairy-Wren, Tawny Grassbird, Little Eagle, Black-shouldered Kite in the fields. Cotton and Green Pygmy Goose and Magpie Goose, Bush Hen, Buff-banded Rail and Latham's Snipe on the Daintree River (or banks). Plus all our regulars of course! The only thing missing seems to be the Little Kingfisher.<br />
The Cattle Egret are now well coloured in breeding plumage and will be heading off to breed in the Gulf soon.<br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEixx6mh_pNab-MX87POWh7DDLBPkREZcxkZCTjFEU5Qd168aGpRnsspM8JXasnHlbJjW620WrWVzG7mvtHQc9-YKehgGlyxQTMlB8iShi_Ih6HX3PNQIsFct8mSk4Fz3W_SCol3aWn-3RPj/s1600/P1000580+-+Copy.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="352" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEixx6mh_pNab-MX87POWh7DDLBPkREZcxkZCTjFEU5Qd168aGpRnsspM8JXasnHlbJjW620WrWVzG7mvtHQc9-YKehgGlyxQTMlB8iShi_Ih6HX3PNQIsFct8mSk4Fz3W_SCol3aWn-3RPj/s400/P1000580+-+Copy.JPG" width="400" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Cattle Egret Nov 12</td></tr>
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<br />Unknownnoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4497792450055539572.post-73382157342491292142012-11-10T18:38:00.000+10:002012-11-10T18:38:44.045+10:00Daintree Birdwatching TreatsNovember is a peak month for birding in Tropical North Queensland with excellent sightings reported in the Daintree Region.<br />
Newcomers include Cotton Pygmy Goose x 2 on the Daintree River, King Parrots x about 8 in the Daintree Valley, Fan-tailed Cuckoo at Barratt Creek and Barn Owl on Stewart Creek Rd.<br />
Other birds of note include Yellow-breasted Boatbill and Pied Monarch, as well as the Buff-breasted Paradise Kingfisher at the end of Stewart Creek Rd. Tawny Grassbird, Red-backed Fairy-Wren, Golden-headed Cisticola and Chestnut-breasted Mannikin on the same road, but near Harlows Bridge in the grassy fields. Lots of good seed heads at the moment. Little Eagle and Brown Goshawk also seen.<br />
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<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjXOHVwrjE-Um2MwXGppWC2rq8XbR8dQraCn_wfOVIoZAG4hDnsjcnVQ1ot_l200DnldjvGSYoxvmSa6sAsjz7pbAktQkebNwWdQN9NLKSA5i_zeZOyCSUNScGmLiWf5vD0B92_4yYX3llt/s1600/Yellow-breasted+Boatbill00011.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="321" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjXOHVwrjE-Um2MwXGppWC2rq8XbR8dQraCn_wfOVIoZAG4hDnsjcnVQ1ot_l200DnldjvGSYoxvmSa6sAsjz7pbAktQkebNwWdQN9NLKSA5i_zeZOyCSUNScGmLiWf5vD0B92_4yYX3llt/s400/Yellow-breasted+Boatbill00011.JPG" width="400" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Yellow-breasted Boatbill (Fred Forsell)</td></tr>
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Several pair of Papuan Frogmouth are nesting above the banks of the Daintree River and Black Bittern are seen daily. Great-billed Heron carrying nesting material has been spotted heading upstream on Stewart Creek<br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEirWm3BU87JbqzwB-RP47P7jqQgVJqDuXCgO1Gy6SDeR8gxoBi4cLIRGlRYupy0Imuvu59XASlvYSAf1ELuhcp0dPT416PIGMa1ANdAcPfTbpr02AuzzVJm-SupoSWv0T8pgiLkp4qFy1Hm/s1600/pap+frog+Henri+Brouschmice.jpeg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="265" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEirWm3BU87JbqzwB-RP47P7jqQgVJqDuXCgO1Gy6SDeR8gxoBi4cLIRGlRYupy0Imuvu59XASlvYSAf1ELuhcp0dPT416PIGMa1ANdAcPfTbpr02AuzzVJm-SupoSWv0T8pgiLkp4qFy1Hm/s400/pap+frog+Henri+Brouschmice.jpeg" width="400" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Papuan Frogmouth ( Henri Brouchide)</td></tr>
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The Total Solar Eclipse happens across the region between 6.38 and 6.40 am on Weds 14th, about which we are all very excited. We'll be down on the beach near the mouth of the Daintree River and are really keen to see what happens with the wildlife as we putter back up the river after it is all over.<div>
Hopefully some pics next week! Fingers crossed for dry and sunny weather.</div>
Unknownnoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4497792450055539572.post-52210812114577138812012-10-27T17:09:00.001+10:002012-10-27T17:09:25.759+10:00Daintree Birding etcLots of interesting things happening around Daintree at present for birdwatchers.<br />
Yesterday we took both a drive to the end of Stewart Creek Rd in the Daintree Valley, plus a walk along the first section with guests, and picked up a very handy list for our efforts.<br />
Birds included Buff-breasted Paradise Kingfisher, Barred Cuckoo-Shrike, Dollarbird, Channel-billed Cuckoo, Lovely Fairy-Wren, Red-backed Fairy-Wren, Golden-headed Cisticola, Little Eagle and Double-eyed Fig-Parrot excavating a nest.<br />
Very impressive!!<br />
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<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhnV1BcvpAQsA5yiZ3ErpUg0z_hRZ-sBjtPfWyVf91Y3sueWvsWnbKugB0a7zu-XrbKgUHo6xflvCbcXGNhKZBAn7NvL74khZVl7etFMu7aSfOtxKogDKr5i5_lPkOcHTFo8w9eR950yqwj/s1600/P1000323.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="330" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhnV1BcvpAQsA5yiZ3ErpUg0z_hRZ-sBjtPfWyVf91Y3sueWvsWnbKugB0a7zu-XrbKgUHo6xflvCbcXGNhKZBAn7NvL74khZVl7etFMu7aSfOtxKogDKr5i5_lPkOcHTFo8w9eR950yqwj/s400/P1000323.JPG" width="400" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Dollarbird</td></tr>
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UK wildlife video-maker Malcolm Rymer is in the TNQ region for three weeks collecting footage for a 2 hour video on Birdwatching in Tropical North Queensland, which he will have available for sale at next year's British Birdfair. He is receiving excellent support from some local birding businesses and some very generous local birders and has collected some great footage thus far. His comments about the region are very encouraging, and it's great to be involved in a project which will potentially bring more people to the region for birdwatching. Thanks to those who have been involved, for being generous with their time and knowledge and also for their openness when dealing with Malcolm.<br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEilytTvMM7c4V948Yu3tlCCJkxMu0_wQIrZ6lc1vMl8Eh0ieT7iZWvw3reQnAOpy12E0crMQLVM7PjWUhMnp2Aatxke9Iy8GPIJhZ_8BHkVCNhJhtYXE0tvLB4kaheD1cgqzYUVyIIlPb2L/s1600/P1000340.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="300" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEilytTvMM7c4V948Yu3tlCCJkxMu0_wQIrZ6lc1vMl8Eh0ieT7iZWvw3reQnAOpy12E0crMQLVM7PjWUhMnp2Aatxke9Iy8GPIJhZ_8BHkVCNhJhtYXE0tvLB4kaheD1cgqzYUVyIIlPb2L/s400/P1000340.JPG" width="400" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Malcolm Rymer, Ann and Trish at Stewart Creek Bridge</td></tr>
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While not daily, there have been sightings of Southern Cassowary north of the Daintree River. Four pairs of Papuan Frogmouth nesting on the Daintree River or creeks. Black Bitttern also seen.<br />
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Lots of activity in the garden at Red Mill House with good flowers and fruit about. Wompoo Fruit-Dove and Double-eyed Fig-Parrot both favourites. This very handsome Brush Turkey seems to be holding sway over any intruders at present.<br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiXZkxADILjsX4qH1UMy_fcYTR33_5A-5KXy-PeaMcVyoQ6klH3vbtubzYYbVzpTMUkuiGfSarkJa3-oFtWEug9r0nxAUujmasUvI9jp1UeTzHelpBDmr_ij8CmSE2IYGEZzEupwjZZiqtM/s1600/P1000226.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="300" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiXZkxADILjsX4qH1UMy_fcYTR33_5A-5KXy-PeaMcVyoQ6klH3vbtubzYYbVzpTMUkuiGfSarkJa3-oFtWEug9r0nxAUujmasUvI9jp1UeTzHelpBDmr_ij8CmSE2IYGEZzEupwjZZiqtM/s400/P1000226.JPG" width="400" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Male Australian Brush Turkey</td></tr>
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It is also 'frog season' with many of the Giant White-lipped Green Tree Frogs taking refuge in the house each day, before making their way out at night to feed and frolic.<br />
This chap stopped over on a tripod on his way out last night.<br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjVEE3FumnM0edU26OQ6G2a0WkMv5YRe-BJDUg_QuJTdPPcKbOOQ4MXJkKDQIl8kLvpjdN7ISlEWU1JqQQ-lTdZaZMLfSG-dXGjzgut-0hsBJPKBc2LaFKtB2cqHufR67C3vfK9HEf6SFbR/s1600/P1000411.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="267" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjVEE3FumnM0edU26OQ6G2a0WkMv5YRe-BJDUg_QuJTdPPcKbOOQ4MXJkKDQIl8kLvpjdN7ISlEWU1JqQQ-lTdZaZMLfSG-dXGjzgut-0hsBJPKBc2LaFKtB2cqHufR67C3vfK9HEf6SFbR/s320/P1000411.JPG" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Litoria infrafrenata</td></tr>
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A pot-plant dweller during the day!</div>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhUTCODxKhaLvQiW8ZV_W0QKSaf7Dy5WvG7erXmoVF-rie6EXUojtf0bCqzgbJ3-i24RzdqPsEw8UJQKiE7dO6Nt96xNAZEKBMHrLYWu-kNatw8MzHwMZMEfILjHJ_ZG63whnd1SPetB0UL/s1600/P1000312.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="291" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhUTCODxKhaLvQiW8ZV_W0QKSaf7Dy5WvG7erXmoVF-rie6EXUojtf0bCqzgbJ3-i24RzdqPsEw8UJQKiE7dO6Nt96xNAZEKBMHrLYWu-kNatw8MzHwMZMEfILjHJ_ZG63whnd1SPetB0UL/s320/P1000312.JPG" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Litoria bicolor</td></tr>
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And lastly, a sign-post 'pretend I'm not here' Graceful Tree-Frog. I'm surprised a Kookaburra didn't find him, but he survived the day.<br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgRpZxFkNso7V3c568KenXFHRlLHuRIr1-jcR8wlrlhaMMLhO44L-MY5uQaIbdgVoZRMSXM-TrBX_5432PHIokXToaxzIZ1Ow0YsghYKZh5DPHE2aXH9yAK54ulRkHBntQY_Eym2CL3xb4F/s1600/P1000353.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgRpZxFkNso7V3c568KenXFHRlLHuRIr1-jcR8wlrlhaMMLhO44L-MY5uQaIbdgVoZRMSXM-TrBX_5432PHIokXToaxzIZ1Ow0YsghYKZh5DPHE2aXH9yAK54ulRkHBntQY_Eym2CL3xb4F/s320/P1000353.JPG" width="287" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Litoria gracilenta</td></tr>
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You gotta love it!</div>
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We live in Paradise.</div>
Unknownnoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4497792450055539572.post-48565805465401307682012-10-22T10:01:00.001+10:002012-10-22T10:03:34.879+10:00Buff-breasted Paradise Kingfisher has arrived!!The last of our summer migrants are in!<br />
Black Bittern has been seen for the past few days on the Daintree River and this morning the first Buff-breasted Paradise Kingfisher was heard and then seen on Stewart Creek Rd in the Daintree Valley by Robyn Lowth of Daintree Sunbird Farm.<br />
We love this time of year!!Unknownnoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4497792450055539572.post-33059853205721812012-10-14T12:51:00.000+10:002012-10-14T12:51:27.203+10:00Birdwatching season in Daintree<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
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A great time of year for birding in Daintree. Some nice rain last week, then clear and dry again now. Just enough rain to top up the pond at Red Mill House so the Little Kingfisher and Azure Kingfisher both have space to feed.</div>
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Nesting activity is in full force with the Australian Figbird trying to dominate the yard - they are certainly the most common bird each day. A huge Milky Pine in the yard has several figbirds nesting, plus a Yellow Oriole and Helmeted Friarbird on nests. Probably more that we don't see, also! Much disputing of territories going on! The strangler figs are in full fruit, so there is plenty of food close by.</div>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgrR4rYvIvDqp7r6Y7L8ypfOC4XCAYUpcCpLBXNf-sWPGJI4OSkanEj1F5peOvz6Jg5MzA2LrhxzocHZiIIhh8L-LfNt4unUUpdSp1pejqY_3973w2dfwmLRFyjR1tEEvmm20bTGgWqBUS8/s1600/P1000115.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgrR4rYvIvDqp7r6Y7L8ypfOC4XCAYUpcCpLBXNf-sWPGJI4OSkanEj1F5peOvz6Jg5MzA2LrhxzocHZiIIhh8L-LfNt4unUUpdSp1pejqY_3973w2dfwmLRFyjR1tEEvmm20bTGgWqBUS8/s320/P1000115.JPG" width="319" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Male Australian Figbird</td></tr>
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The Black Butcherbird (not our favourite because they are such aggressive predators and we don't have a lot of space) have also been nesting in the Damson Plum. I know they have to feed their babies, but I do wish they wouldn't pick off our lovely frogs all the time.<br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiZD39wfPO9UuMuHfc4CoDrABiGHZFhLPhdo1LVcQS_Awe8LKwD7kPJRzekNAlatUlTSdERqhgHhLtuv_mNfntkX1U7PR7wWfdlDipKlDA2F5ymdjeVoDIYsa6HxaWiSuRpsNSsy47hCHOC/s1600/P1000125.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiZD39wfPO9UuMuHfc4CoDrABiGHZFhLPhdo1LVcQS_Awe8LKwD7kPJRzekNAlatUlTSdERqhgHhLtuv_mNfntkX1U7PR7wWfdlDipKlDA2F5ymdjeVoDIYsa6HxaWiSuRpsNSsy47hCHOC/s320/P1000125.JPG" width="309" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Juvenile Black Butcherbird</td></tr>
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It is no wonder that our frogs like to hang out inside the house during the day, rather than in the garden.</div>
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Just don't tell the Health Inspector!!</div>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh8RbVBmK1BcJ2BpDF_ynHfBcP4YRaDfskeAqHIVLgoav3hDTM1989kYjp4_E5RVBwejTCg5mHo2DMZeKwkoMaTrjhyphenhyphendYRAqQ37lnplIjELxvs2ID566yuxos3MLZ-9aRF46HaRyfpdbMrA/s1600/P1030914.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh8RbVBmK1BcJ2BpDF_ynHfBcP4YRaDfskeAqHIVLgoav3hDTM1989kYjp4_E5RVBwejTCg5mHo2DMZeKwkoMaTrjhyphenhyphendYRAqQ37lnplIjELxvs2ID566yuxos3MLZ-9aRF46HaRyfpdbMrA/s320/P1030914.JPG" width="201" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Giant White-lipped Green Tree Frog</td></tr>
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Other sightings locally include Pacific Baza along Stewart Creek Rd, Double-eyed Fig-Parrot, Cicadabird, Great-billed Heron and Papuan Frogmouth (also nesting).</div>
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Still hanging out for that first call of the Buff-breasted Paradise Kingfisher.</div>
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