| Author | Content |
hel
Alstonville
Australia
April 07, 2009
09:25 PM Post #6379984
| Hi Everyone out there, thought I'd start a Forum on our local wildlife for all to see.
Hel, Coffs Harbour NSW
Australian Rainbow Lorikeet & King Parrot
Click the image for an enlarged view.
|
JuneyBug
Dongducheon CpCasey
South Korea
(Zone 4b)
April 07, 2009
09:52 PM Post #6380122
| Such pretty birds! |
Lily_love
Central, AL
(Zone 7b)
April 07, 2009
10:02 PM Post #6380167
| Beautiful, colorful birds, thanks for sharing your pics. hel. |
pelletory
Marlton, NJ
April 07, 2009
10:12 PM Post #6380220
| I love the King Parrots! Nice one hel! |
reddirtretiree
Norman, OK
April 08, 2009
06:04 AM Post #6381127
| Thanks for sharing. I love Lorikeets. The Oklahoma City Zoo has a new Lorikeet facility I haven't visited yet. The old one was great. You are allowed to walk in and free to interact with the birds. Cups of nectar are available and the birds are not shy.
Here is a pic of my last visit. We plan to hit the zoo soon and I'll be sure to get some Lorikeet pics. 
Click the image for an enlarged view.
|
Lily_love
Central, AL
(Zone 7b)
April 08, 2009
07:28 AM Post #6381257
| I'd be tickled!!! RDR. What fun you've. Bet the grandchildren love that of grandpa? LOL. |
hel
Alstonville
Australia
April 08, 2009
08:03 PM Post #6384114
| Hi Guy's, You too have beautiful birds in your part of the world.
These little fellows are so tame they nibble on my toes.
Scaley Breasted Lorikeets
Click the image for an enlarged view.
|
hel
Alstonville
Australia
April 08, 2009
08:21 PM Post #6384187
| Hi Red, nice pic of you with the Parrots. The only problem with the Lorikeets is they can be very noisy and boy are they bossy even with the Brush Turkey. 
Click the image for an enlarged view.
|
OPbirder
Orchard Park, NY
April 09, 2009
09:12 PM Post #6389177
| Such colorful birds in your part of the world. Enjoyed these photos. |
hel
Alstonville
Australia
September 27, 2009
10:40 PM Post #7111245
| I'm sorry not many liked this thread, it didn't get off to a very good start. 
Click the image for an enlarged view.
|
burn_2007
Grand-Falls, NB
(Zone 4a)
September 27, 2009
11:20 PM Post #7111381
| Beautiful birds Hel. I love their colors. |
MargaretK
PERTH
Australia
September 27, 2009
11:30 PM Post #7111400
| I love the Pink and Greys, Hel. Don't be disheartened by a lack of responses. Your thread has had almost 100 views. Keep on posting - people love to see birds from different parts of the world. I hope you don't mind me posting one of my birds from a few months ago - Yellow-billed Spoonbill. 
Click the image for an enlarged view.
|
JuneyBug
Dongducheon CpCasey
South Korea
(Zone 4b)
September 27, 2009
11:58 PM Post #7111468
| It is a great thread! I love seeing the birds from Austrailia (&everywhere else too!) |
hel
Alstonville
Australia
September 28, 2009
12:08 AM Post #7111480
| Thanks everyone |
Burd_Fotos
Sandusky, OH
September 28, 2009
12:09 AM Post #7111484
| Nice Photos Hel!! I enjoy seeing bird's from other country's! The Brush Turkey, is the yellow... part of his lower neck? |
hel
Alstonville
Australia
September 28, 2009
12:11 AM Post #7111488
| This is hubby with his Sulphur Crested Cockatoo, he has had him for 33 years.
Don't know how old he was when he cought him on his grandmothers roof.
Will not have anything to do with any one else.
Click the image for an enlarged view.
|
pelletory
Marlton, NJ
September 28, 2009
06:34 AM Post #7111835
| Love the Lorikeets, Brush Turkey and your Cockatoo! Keep them coming hel! |
ducbucln
Kelseyville, CA
(Zone 8b)
September 28, 2009
10:08 AM Post #7112259
| Great photos Hel. All of these birds are so pretty. I really enjoy seeing all the different birds in your area. |
TheHackster
Columbus, GA
(Zone 8a)
September 28, 2009
03:09 PM Post #7113374
| I sure liked the thread. You've got so many birds of vivid colors down-under.
Hack |
hel
Alstonville
Australia
September 28, 2009
06:45 PM Post #7114152
| Thank's Guy's. Come on you Aussies let's show our American friend's just how beautiful our bird's are.
These are our cheeky Rainbow Lorikeets.
Click the image for an enlarged view.
|
burn_2007
Grand-Falls, NB
(Zone 4a)
September 28, 2009
06:46 PM Post #7114157
| What a wonderful pet!!! Looks like, he's got your DH, all to himself. Not spoil at all is he? :)) |
burn_2007
Grand-Falls, NB
(Zone 4a)
September 28, 2009
06:48 PM Post #7114163
| Very nice Hel. |
hel
Alstonville
Australia
September 28, 2009
06:49 PM Post #7114169
| I can't not show our Magpie. They make a beautiful warbling sound but be aware Springtime they are
known to dive bomb people and can do some harm. Thank goodness the postie wears a helmet he cops it here everyday at the moment.
Click the image for an enlarged view.
|
TheHackster
Columbus, GA
(Zone 8a)
September 28, 2009
07:10 PM Post #7114235
| Such diversity astounds me. Keep 'em coming hel.
Hack |
hel
Alstonville
Australia
September 28, 2009
09:44 PM Post #7114840
| I can't let this fella go without a mention.
Laughing Kookaburra, and he realy does laugh.
Click the image for an enlarged view.
|
MargaretK
PERTH
Australia
September 28, 2009
09:51 PM Post #7114869
| Good ones, Hel.
Red Wattlebird in Eucalyptus 
Click the image for an enlarged view.
|
JuneyBug
Dongducheon CpCasey
South Korea
(Zone 4b)
September 28, 2009
09:53 PM Post #7114871
| Love your birds! |
pelletory
Marlton, NJ
September 29, 2009
06:57 AM Post #7115663
| Me too! |
hel
Alstonville
Australia
October 07, 2009
04:19 PM Post #7145307
| Hi Guy's this is our Eastern Rosella 
Click the image for an enlarged view.
|
pelletory
Marlton, NJ
October 07, 2009
06:24 PM Post #7145700
| Very pretty! |
burn_2007
Grand-Falls, NB
(Zone 4a)
October 07, 2009
11:37 PM Post #7146716
| Very colorful. Such handsome birds!!! |
bjf826
(Barb) Quincy, FL
(Zone 8b)
October 08, 2009
08:40 PM Post #7149555
| I love to see the birds from down under! Please keep posting them for us... and THANKS!
Barb |
hel
Alstonville
Australia
October 09, 2009
12:44 AM Post #7150231
| This is another male King Parrot I guess they like my tomatoes 
Click the image for an enlarged view.
|
MargaretK
PERTH
Australia
October 09, 2009
01:00 AM Post #7150252
| He's beautiful, Hel. We don't get the King Parrots in W.A. That's a wonderful outlook you have there.
This is a female Western Magpie. 
Click the image for an enlarged view.
|
ducbucln
Kelseyville, CA
(Zone 8b)
October 09, 2009
10:55 AM Post #7151169
| WOW! What colorful birds, all of them are just beautiful!! More?? |
burn_2007
Grand-Falls, NB
(Zone 4a)
October 09, 2009
01:24 PM Post #7151753
| Hel, wonderful King Parrot. I read that, some of those parrots, that you have there, can live a very long time. Some up to 60 yrs!!!. To keep them as pet here, one has to be very committed to them and hope they don't outlive them. Or one could arrange to get someone, who will care for them and love them, as much as we do. Not always an easy task.
Margaret, nice shot of the Magpie.
|
hel
Alstonville
Australia
October 09, 2009
09:08 PM Post #7153220
| Here's another one of hubby's sulphur crested cockatoo, as I said before he has had her for 34 years, some live to nearly 100. 
Click the image for an enlarged view.
|
burn_2007
Grand-Falls, NB
(Zone 4a)
October 09, 2009
09:30 PM Post #7153315
| Looks like, he's a good little helper in the garden. :) A 100yrs is a lot longer, then I originally though huh, thanks for the update, Hel. He's a handsome birds. |
hel
Alstonville
Australia
October 10, 2009
12:56 AM Post #7153792
| Here's some of our sea birds, Pelicans, Cormorants, Seagulls 
Click the image for an enlarged view.
|
Burd_Fotos
Sandusky, OH
October 10, 2009
02:10 AM Post #7153900
| Very Nice Thread Hel!! Very Colorful! I like your Seabird's pic also, anyone know what the 2 white bird's are? (egrets?) Margaret your flight shot of the female Western Magpie is awesome! |
MargaretK
PERTH
Australia
October 10, 2009
02:53 AM Post #7153940
| Thanks, Burd.
This is a bit of a guess, but I think the white birds may be non-breeding Cattle Egrets. |
Methodical
Clinton, MD
(Zone 7a)
October 10, 2009
03:09 AM Post #7153945
| Hel this reminds me of our visit to Ontario Canada's Aviary. We (me and my daughter) had a chance to feed the Lorikeets; those little jokers just kept biting use but blowing litely on them and they would stop the biting. My wife took pictures but they were blurred but I may have 1 or 2 that may have come out; they would not allow me to take the camera in the cage. Funny thing is one of them took a wiz on her and my camera while she was taking the pictures.
I too like to see birds from other parts of the world; only thing though is it makes me wish I could go to these places. |
pelletory
Marlton, NJ
October 10, 2009
08:48 AM Post #7154181
| Lovely shot hel ! |
MargaretK
PERTH
Australia
October 11, 2009
07:31 AM Post #7157109
| First sighting this season of the Rainbow Bee-eaters, which have migrated from the north of the state to breed. 
Click the image for an enlarged view.
|
MargaretK
PERTH
Australia
October 11, 2009
07:33 AM Post #7157113
| These shots were taken in dim light and don't do justice to their glorious colours. 
Click the image for an enlarged view.
|
MargaretK
PERTH
Australia
October 11, 2009
07:34 AM Post #7157116
| I posted this one on the daily pics thread and have repeated it here because it's the only shot I managed of the two together. 
Click the image for an enlarged view.
|
pelletory
Marlton, NJ
October 11, 2009
01:57 PM Post #7158010
| oh they are gorgeous! |
hel
Alstonville
Australia
October 11, 2009
09:34 PM Post #7159459
| Hi Gou's, yes they are egrets, could be a cattle egret, we do have a lot of them around.
Beautiful Marg, thks Burd & Pell
This is a very friendly and cheeky Scaley Breasted Lorikeet, he was biting my toes, gently.
Click the image for an enlarged view.
|
pelletory
Marlton, NJ
October 12, 2009
01:52 PM Post #7161645
| Sweet! |
dellrose
Conway, MO
(Zone 5b)
October 12, 2009
05:13 PM Post #7162324
| I love this thread with all the beautiful birds! |
burn_2007
Grand-Falls, NB
(Zone 4a)
October 12, 2009
10:35 PM Post #7163403
| Those Bee-eater are so beautiful.
Hel,do the Lorikeet take food from your hand? |
JuneyBug
Dongducheon CpCasey
South Korea
(Zone 4b)
October 13, 2009
06:55 PM Post #7166024
| That SB Lorikeet looks like he was begging for a handout! |
MargaretK
PERTH
Australia
October 13, 2009
07:02 PM Post #7166048
| They are really beautiful birds, Burn. Here's another from yesterday (I've also posted this on the daily pix thread) 
Click the image for an enlarged view.
|
hel
Alstonville
Australia
October 15, 2009
02:23 AM Post #7171017
| Yes Burn, they are very tame.
Great pic's Marg.
This bloke thinks he's gorgeous!!
Australian Brush Turkey
Click the image for an enlarged view.
|
MargaretK
PERTH
Australia
October 15, 2009
02:27 AM Post #7171023
| That bloke has every good reason to think he's gorgeous. Look at that ruffle around his neck - the dandy. |
MargaretK
PERTH
Australia
October 15, 2009
06:41 AM Post #7171144
| Buff-banded Rail at the local swamp this afternoon. An elusive bird to try to photograph. 
Click the image for an enlarged view.
|
MargaretK
PERTH
Australia
October 15, 2009
06:43 AM Post #7171147
| There's still a lot of water in the swamp, but there's nowhere near the number of birds that bred there last year. 
Click the image for an enlarged view.
|
MargaretK
PERTH
Australia
October 15, 2009
07:05 AM Post #7171165
| Eurasian Coots mating.
This message was edited Oct 15, 2009 7:09 PM
Click the image for an enlarged view.
|
MargaretK
PERTH
Australia
October 15, 2009
07:06 AM Post #7171167
| ... 
Click the image for an enlarged view.
|
pelletory
Marlton, NJ
October 15, 2009
07:22 AM Post #7171184
| Cool shots Margaret! |
MargaretK
PERTH
Australia
October 15, 2009
07:30 AM Post #7171202
| Thanks, Pelle.
Straw-necked Ibis. What a pity I couldn't get the entire bird in the frame. 
Click the image for an enlarged view.
|
MargaretK
PERTH
Australia
October 15, 2009
07:33 AM Post #7171204
| This baby Eurasian Coot thought it was going to be fed, but the parent bird went straight past it to its sibling. 
Click the image for an enlarged view.
|
pelletory
Marlton, NJ
October 15, 2009
07:35 AM Post #7171208
| What a great looking bird! The baby Coot is adorable! |
burn_2007
Grand-Falls, NB
(Zone 4a)
October 15, 2009
08:41 PM Post #7173715
| wooo nice iridescent color on the Ibis. Margaret.
That Brush Turkey had a great apparel, for that photo Hel. |
hel
Alstonville
Australia
November 04, 2009
03:42 AM Post #7239776
| Marg, looks like you have a great camera, mine is just a little pentax, wish I could afford a bigger one I love taking photos so that the image is kept forever.
Also love your Osprey's. Keep it up it's great, Harmony has grown up quickly.
Click the image for an enlarged view.
|
MargaretK
PERTH
Australia
November 04, 2009
03:48 AM Post #7239780
| Thank you, Hel. Is that a juvenile Blue-faced Honeyeater you've got there? Gorgeous. We don't get them over in W.A. |
hel
Alstonville
Australia
November 04, 2009
04:15 AM Post #7239784
| Yes it is Marg, but not a good photo.
I loved the Regent Bowerbirds but still couldn't get a good photo.
Click the image for an enlarged view.
|
MargaretK
PERTH
Australia
November 04, 2009
04:43 AM Post #7239791
| Certainly good enough for me to be able to identify a bird I've never seen. Do the Bower Birds ever build a bower in your place?
Here's a Fairy Tern from the day before yesterday.
Click the image for an enlarged view.
|
pelletory
Marlton, NJ
November 04, 2009
07:31 AM Post #7239898
| Very cute! Are they called Fairy Terns because of their size? |
MargaretK
PERTH
Australia
November 04, 2009
08:13 AM Post #7239950
| Hi Pelle. I really have no idea why they're called Fairy Terns. They aren't a particularly small bird. |
hel
Alstonville
Australia
November 04, 2009
07:42 PM Post #7242060
| Hi Marg, the Satin Bowers built nests around our old home in Coffs, they were more prolific, around regularly.
The Regent's were a bit allusive, came around the same time every year.
Click the image for an enlarged view.
|
hel
Alstonville
Australia
November 04, 2009
07:45 PM Post #7242071
| I do miss my bird's, we only have a handful in our new backyard.
This was my beauty.
Click the image for an enlarged view.
|
burn_2007
Grand-Falls, NB
(Zone 4a)
November 04, 2009
09:29 PM Post #7242503
| Hel, it's so great to see your area birds. They are very beautiful, and quite interesting. |
pelletory
Marlton, NJ
November 05, 2009
12:53 AM Post #7243168
| Oh he Is a beauty!! |
MargaretK
PERTH
Australia
November 06, 2009
08:02 AM Post #7246835
| Beautiful parrot, Hel.
I posted similar (or maybe the same) on the daily pix thread, but thought I'd add one here as well.
Laughing Kookaburra.
Click the image for an enlarged view.
|
Lily_love
Central, AL
(Zone 7b)
November 06, 2009
09:49 AM Post #7247041
| I love that Laughing Kookaburra. Thanks hel and Margaret for sharing of such beautiful and interesting birds thread from your home land. |
MargaretK
PERTH
Australia
November 08, 2009
09:49 AM Post #7252706
| Hel, I saw on the news that norther NSW has been copping some hideous weather. Have you been affected by it? I hope everything is OK.
|
irisloverdee
Lebanon, OR
November 08, 2009
01:20 PM Post #7253171
| Please continue to post your colorful birds I am in heaven as we do not have that much color in Lebanon OR, USA...
Love my birds
love your birds
D |
hel
Alstonville
Australia
November 08, 2009
04:41 PM Post #7253683
| Hi Marg, Coffs Harbour has copped it's 4th flood this year. We were living there for the 31st March floods. I must say as much as I loved our old place I'm not sorry we moved.
One can take so much rain. They have had the equivalent of Victorias rainfall within 48 hours. Just heard they got 360mm in 24 hours.
This was our back yard 1st April (yeh!! April Fools Day).
Click the image for an enlarged view.
|
hel
Alstonville
Australia
November 08, 2009
04:56 PM Post #7253716
| Here is my hubbies Cockatoo (Cocko) he has had for 34 yrs and his daughters (Charlie) we are baby sitting , maybe forever. 
Click the image for an enlarged view.
|
MargaretK
PERTH
Australia
November 08, 2009
07:11 PM Post #7254168
| OMG, Hel. That's an awful lot of rain. The eastern states really seem to be in a constant state of feast or famine.
I know what you mean about birdsitting and it becoming permanent. |
hel
Alstonville
Australia
November 18, 2009
07:42 PM Post #7287722
| Hi Marg, I'm sure it is permanent. 
Click the image for an enlarged view.
|
MargaretK
PERTH
Australia
November 18, 2009
07:48 PM Post #7287751
| Well, it looks as if they enjoy each others company. |
hel
Alstonville
Australia
November 18, 2009
07:51 PM Post #7287761
| It's only early day's. 
Click the image for an enlarged view.
|
pelletory
Marlton, NJ
November 18, 2009
08:23 PM Post #7287869
| Their beautiful Cockatoo's Hel! |
MargaretK
PERTH
Australia
November 18, 2009
08:28 PM Post #7287897
| hel, it looks as if it has been digging in the dirt. The Corellas and Pink & Greys that visit here are sometimes so filthy and caked in mud that it's hard to tell what type of bird they are. |
hel
Alstonville
Australia
November 18, 2009
09:03 PM Post #7288016
| Yes, old Cocko has a hollow log in her cage and she spends a lot of time in there digging with a rock till it is smooth and warn away then she find's another, she has worn away the bottom of the log.
Cocko getting a bath.
Click the image for an enlarged view.
|
MargaretK
PERTH
Australia
November 18, 2009
09:26 PM Post #7288084
| Oh what a wonderful picture. "Just going out to wash the cocky, dear". |
burn_2007
Grand-Falls, NB
(Zone 4a)
November 18, 2009
09:35 PM Post #7288115
| Does your DH have a hard time, to bath Cocko? Does it try to bite? |
hel
Alstonville
Australia
November 20, 2009
08:19 PM Post #7294220
| No Burn he can do anything with her but hates everyone else. 
Click the image for an enlarged view.
|
Mrs_Ed
Whiteside County, IL
(Zone 5a)
November 20, 2009
08:29 PM Post #7294249
| DH or Cocko hates everyone? |
hel
Alstonville
Australia
November 20, 2009
08:59 PM Post #7294380
| Cocko, silly!! 
Click the image for an enlarged view.
|
Mrs_Ed
Whiteside County, IL
(Zone 5a)
November 20, 2009
09:15 PM Post #7294439
| hee. well if it were MY DH…
*snicker* |
burn_2007
Grand-Falls, NB
(Zone 4a)
November 21, 2009
04:43 PM Post #7297029
| LOL |
pelletory
Marlton, NJ
November 21, 2009
05:21 PM Post #7297134
| That is sweet! |
Seachanger
Clifton Springs
Australia
(Zone 8b)
November 21, 2009
09:15 PM Post #7297943
| Love your site hel...I will have to photograph some of the birds that we have here...mind you being in a new estate the birds mainly sit on the antennas...had a Kooka on ours a couple of days ago...plenty of black Cockies, Parrots and Galahs fly over..I love your Brush Turkeys...they must be characters...
Great shots Margaret.
Victoria is finally getting it's Spring rain.
Dianne |
hel
Alstonville
Australia
November 22, 2009
08:17 PM Post #7301024
| Hi Guy's, They certainly are characters. I miss them all, we moved last July from Coffs to Alstonville (between Ballina & Lismore) I identified over 60 birds in the 12 years we were there but I might add we were in an area with no neighbours and big gum & eucalypt trees. Sad to say we don't have that many bird's here. At least I have my pics to look back on.
This pic is of our previous home which the new owners absolutely love.
Click the image for an enlarged view.
|
MargaretK
PERTH
Australia
November 22, 2009
08:27 PM Post #7301062
| I don't blame them, hel. It looks absolutely beautiful. |
hel
Alstonville
Australia
November 22, 2009
08:31 PM Post #7301076
| It sure was Marg, this was our driveway. 
Click the image for an enlarged view.
|
MargaretK
PERTH
Australia
November 22, 2009
09:10 PM Post #7301207
| I can imagine what the bird life must have been like. What a fabulous place. It must have been difficult to move. Did you get Lyrebirds there? |
burn_2007
Grand-Falls, NB
(Zone 4a)
November 23, 2009
09:42 PM Post #7304350
| Hel , That's a gorgeous sight, I can see why, it would of been as nice for the birds. Hope those new owners appreciates it as much as you did. |
JuneyBug
Dongducheon CpCasey
South Korea
(Zone 4b)
November 24, 2009
03:02 AM Post #7305122
| What a wonderful place to have lived for a dozen years... I will bet that you will be turning your new home into as much of a paradise as you can and the birds will feel welcome there too. |
KJane
Shippensburg, PA
November 25, 2009
02:35 AM Post #7308054
| Stunning photos of the birds Hel, Margaret and Seachanger. Thank You for sharing. I remember the Magpies being more than a little protective of their nests. I'd make a wide path around any tree they were nesting in. My cousins had a pet Magpie that used to peck my toes...I was afraid of that bird because I couldn't get away from it..lol.
I had forgotten how gorgeous the birds are in Australia, at least it has been long enough that your pictures showing the incredible colors startled me a little.
My Mum was from Toodyay, WA and my sister married and lives just outside of Perth. I remember what my Nanna called 28's, always in a mob, large birds and they loved to raid her fruit trees.
Would you know what kind of bird I'm talking about?
Thanks again for a wonderful thread. Hel the home you left is beautiful, how lovely to have lived there with your feathered friends. Your husband with his cocky is darling.
This message was edited Nov 25, 2009 1:44 AM |
MargaretK
PERTH
Australia
November 25, 2009
05:17 AM Post #7308126
| KJ, your recollection of Australian Magpies during the breeding season is very accurate. Lots of people feed the maggies and they recognize the people who feed them and these people are safe from attack. Some families of Magpies who have possibly not been tormented, especially by schoolkids, remain very placid, even during the breeding season. The family in our territory is like that. Posties on their little motorbikes seem to be fair game and I'm sure they don't go around persecuting Magpies.
Toodyay is the most beautiful little town. If it wasn't for the fact that it's inland and hideously hot in summer, I'd move there in a heartbeat.
Port Lincoln Ringnecks are the 28's you refer to and are still called 28's. They are one of my all time favourite birds. There was a small mob of about 6 or 7 flying from tree to tree in our yard this morning.
I'll post some shots I took last year. These ones were in a peppermint tree. 
Click the image for an enlarged view.
|
MargaretK
PERTH
Australia
November 25, 2009
05:18 AM Post #7308127
| Closer shot. 
Click the image for an enlarged view.
|
MargaretK
PERTH
Australia
November 25, 2009
05:21 AM Post #7308129
| Cropped shot. 
Click the image for an enlarged view.
|
MargaretK
PERTH
Australia
November 25, 2009
05:22 AM Post #7308130
| I hope these photos have brought back some nice memories. (Forget about your toes being pecked) 
Click the image for an enlarged view.
|
jrwbirds
Elberfeld, IN
(Zone 6a)
November 25, 2009
05:42 AM Post #7308134
| WOW !! What beautiful birds ...I have enjoyed the company of my Umbrella Cockatoo, Cookie, since 1987 - she is great - loveable and talks very well.
I have been a volunteer at the Evansville IN, USA, Zoo since the late 60's...we have an area that has Australian animals. My husband has learned to play the didgeredoo and plays it for the zoo visitors in the area. He really enjoys doing that and talking about the didge...it is quite uncommon to see/hear one here.
|
MargaretK
PERTH
Australia
November 25, 2009
05:48 AM Post #7308135
| jrw, that's a long time to be doing volunteer work. Obviously very rewarding. Who taught your husband the didgeridoo? They are very difficult to master. I'm not familiar with the Umbrella Cockatoo. Does it have another name?
|
pelletory
Marlton, NJ
November 25, 2009
07:27 AM Post #7308177
| Great shots Margaret! Their such a handsome bird! |
MargaretK
PERTH
Australia
November 25, 2009
07:57 AM Post #7308196
| Thank you, Pelle. They really are very special. |
jrwbirds
Elberfeld, IN
(Zone 6a)
November 25, 2009
02:00 PM Post #7309041
| Margaret K - yes, I loved doing the volunteer work...I presented programs to area schools and public television stations...I have soooooo many funny memories...my own version of animal bloopers. I also oraginized both an adult and teen docent program at the zoo -since I was one of 3 people who went to schools and did on ground programs, we could not meet the demand. I also served on the board of directors and raised a lot of $$$ for zoo projects...renovations and new exhibits...many millions - guess I did pretty well...eh
As for the didgeridoo, he is self taught - between videos on youtube.com and utter persistance, he did it...goodness, in the beginning, he'd go through a set and then asked me "How was that?" My stock reply was "Not a bad as yesterday." He now includes that in his presentation. A few weeks ago, a fellow came up to him and told him that he was the first person who "does it correctly" Of course, Mike, my hubby, was thrilled !! The fellow then went to his car and came back with HIS didge...he then told Mike that he'd spent many years in Australia, near Perth most of the time. He learned the technique from the players while he was there.
The Umbrella Cockatoo is also called the White Cockatoo - in the USA, other than in the zoo world, I've only heard it called the Umbrella...check Wipikedia.com for great pictures and info. They have the "backward crest" that is all white rather than the forward yellow crest similar to a cockatiel. I love my birds !! I don't have any digital pictures of her on my PC - better do that !!...jan |
ducbucln
Kelseyville, CA
(Zone 8b)
November 25, 2009
04:19 PM Post #7309426
| Wow, Margaret, those are gorgeous shots!! |
KJane
Shippensburg, PA
November 25, 2009
04:56 PM Post #7309554
| Thank You so much Margaret for the fantastic photos of my dear 28's. They are so beautiful. In those days, 1959, they had very large groups that lived around Toodyay. I saw many wonderful animals. Once a group of Big Reds came thumping past me in the gum forest. What a thrill that was. What a sound they made from a distance, I froze not knowing what made such a sound.
I'm happy to hear Toodyay has retained it's unique character. I have many happy memories of my time living there. At that time it looked just like any town in an American western movie, complete with board sidewalks. Wonderful place. The roads were red dirt, unpaved at that time.
We need a forum of Australian reptiles, lizards etc. I was in heaven with the Bobbies!
If I were to visit I don't think I'd leave. I loved it, such a wild, beautiful place.
About the heat, 120 in the shade. Heat that made you prostrate or sent you loaded in the back of the Ute to the billabong. We would share it with the black and gray racehorse iguanas. Wonderful memories.
Thanks again.
Oh, another question if you don't mind. What bird is a Gallah? I believe there were a lot of them around as well..at least that's a memory I have, talk of Gallahs. I looked on the internet and there were lot's of names of birds, pink and grey being one. Are they all the same bird?
This message was edited Nov 25, 2009 4:00 PM
This message was edited Nov 25, 2009 4:17 PM |
Seachanger
Clifton Springs
Australia
(Zone 8b)
November 26, 2009
04:26 AM Post #7311050
| It's a beautiful parrot jrwbirds, your Umbrella Cockatoo.
We didn't recognize it because it's an Indonesian cockatoo..
from the islands north of Australia.
Galahs are such gregarious birds KJane..No wonder they stayed in your memory.
They are like rabbits they are everywhere...you are correct they are a very pretty pink and grey.
And that is their only colour...hel has a photo of them near the top of this thread...
I love the photo of the 28's in the Peppermint Gum...Margaret.
This message was edited Nov 26, 2009 7:29 PM |
MargaretK
PERTH
Australia
November 27, 2009
08:19 AM Post #7313305
| Thanks, Seachanger.
KJ, here are a few shots of the Pink & Grey Galahs. They are beautiful, friendly birds. At the moment we have probably six or seven pairs coming for supplementary feeds of black sunflower seed. I heard some babies close by yesterday. The racket when a whole mob of babies turn up is hilarious. They sound just like human babies crying and sometimes there will be several lined up along the front fence pleading to be fed. It seems that aunts and uncles will feed any random begging baby as well as there own. The come and tap on the door with their beaks to let us know they're there - not that you could miss them. We've had one particular couple, Mr and Mrs One Eye (the male has lost his left eye) for at least twenty years.
This is an adult female, distinguishable by the reddish eye.
Click the image for an enlarged view.
|
MargaretK
PERTH
Australia
November 27, 2009
08:20 AM Post #7313307
| Here's a close shot of an adult female. 
Click the image for an enlarged view.
|
MargaretK
PERTH
Australia
November 27, 2009
08:21 AM Post #7313309
| Here's a male. Note the dark eye. 
Click the image for an enlarged view.
|
MargaretK
PERTH
Australia
November 27, 2009
08:24 AM Post #7313316
| Along with the Long-billed and Little Corellas, the Pink & Greys will walk along digging in the grass for who knows what. At times all three species of bird will be so filthy dirty from the digging, they're almost unrecognizable. 
Click the image for an enlarged view.
|
MargaretK
PERTH
Australia
November 27, 2009
08:26 AM Post #7313317
| And to finish, here's a really young bird walking along with its crest up. Their colouration is much paler, with considerable variation in the amount of grey. 
Click the image for an enlarged view.
|
pelletory
Marlton, NJ
November 27, 2009
10:22 AM Post #7313463
| Their beautiful! I love the last one. |
JuneyBug
Dongducheon CpCasey
South Korea
(Zone 4b)
November 27, 2009
11:33 AM Post #7313608
| Pretty birds! |
ducbucln
Kelseyville, CA
(Zone 8b)
November 27, 2009
03:45 PM Post #7314196
| Wow, these birds are beautiful. Great photos Margaret! |
KJane
Shippensburg, PA
November 27, 2009
04:02 PM Post #7314248
| Aren't they wonderful! I can see them digging in the grass together all covered in dirt, how funny. They must find grubs or insects. They all sound like such fun to live with. As usual, your photos are excellent, Thank you Margaret. I still can't get over the intense color and size. The last photo shows why they're called Cocky...or is that where the term Cocky came from?!
This message was edited Nov 27, 2009 3:03 PM |
burn_2007
Grand-Falls, NB
(Zone 4a)
November 27, 2009
07:26 PM Post #7314755
| So nice, Margaret. Wish I could be there, to see all those wonderful birds and animals, in your country. Would be quite a treat. |
MargaretK
PERTH
Australia
November 27, 2009
07:37 PM Post #7314784
| It would be so good if you could come out to visit, Burn. Bring everyone else as well.
KJ, the colouring of the Pink & Greys is much more intense in the country. The pink is the most intense, dark pink. I've just put some sunflower seed out for a couple who've dropped by. The female was at the glass door of the TV room tapping with her beak and calling - there's no ignoring them. If they're ignored for too long they get bored and start eating the house. |
KJane
Shippensburg, PA
November 27, 2009
09:03 PM Post #7314971
| Oh my Margaret...they sound a bit like the New Zealand Kakapo that goes after tourist cars!! lol Well, they are intelligent birds and strong, persistent and cheeky. Too funny. |
jrwbirds
Elberfeld, IN
(Zone 6a)
November 27, 2009
09:46 PM Post #7315088
| Oh gosh, love the pink and greys - although I don't have one, I get to work with/handle the ones at the Zoo where I do the volunteer work...I think they are just sweet and compared to the other 'toos, their feet are so small...well, the Goffin has small feet, too.
I keep thinking of the Brush Turkey - such a striking bird !! I wish our zoo had one in our Australian area...will have to talk to the Director about this.
jan |
hel
Alstonville
Australia
November 28, 2009
12:24 AM Post #7315507
| Hi Guy's, Jan a Brush Turkey just for you. 
Click the image for an enlarged view.
|
jrwbirds
Elberfeld, IN
(Zone 6a)
November 28, 2009
08:44 AM Post #7316020
| hel - thank you !! I just love the looks of this bird...can they live in cold climates...down to 0 F ? Seriously, I'd like to se them at our Zoo...even in my backyard
jan |
pelletory
Marlton, NJ
November 28, 2009
09:54 AM Post #7316134
| Nice one hel. They are a handsome bird. |
Seachanger
Clifton Springs
Australia
(Zone 8b)
November 30, 2009
01:46 AM Post #7320700
| Just back from a wonderful experience in the Otway State Forest here in Victoria...we were driving thru a clearing in the forest and stopped to have a look at the view, when out of nowhere flew two magnificent Wedgetail eagles...I have seen solitary birds before but never a pair.
They were chasing a smaller bird that I couldn't identify and their twists and turns with those wingspans were amazing..What truly majestic birds they are. So sorry that I couldn't include a photo...maybe Margaret might be so kind as to put one on the thread if she has one...
My husband and I both felt very privileged to have witnessed a moment which probably we will never see again.
No wonder you find it hard to leave your Ospreys, Margaret.
hel, thanks for the Turkey..love 'em
Dianne |
MargaretK
PERTH
Australia
November 30, 2009
02:33 AM Post #7320781
| Dianne, lucky you. They are really beautiful birds although much maligned by farmers. Unfortunately, I don't have any Wedgetail photos. |
hel
Alstonville
Australia
December 01, 2009
04:02 PM Post #7325697
| I am quite sure if you have a beautiful garden you wouldn't want these fellas, they will dig it up. 
Click the image for an enlarged view.
|
jrwbirds
Elberfeld, IN
(Zone 6a)
December 01, 2009
04:28 PM Post #7325775
| hel - this is true however, I'm going to talk to the Zoo in Evansville IN, USA where I do volunteer work and have been involved in many areas since 1965...there is an Australian exhibit area, but there aren't any of these guys. My husband even plays the didgeridoo there on Sundays |
Resin
Northumberland
United Kingdom
(Zone 9a)
December 01, 2009
05:56 PM Post #7326004
|
| Quoted: | | the colouring of the Pink & Greys is much more intense in the country |
Probably diet-related - birds eating natural food get more plant pigments than urban birds getting a lot of food off bird tables. See if they'll eat chopped beetroot, that might make them more intense pink ;-)
Resin
|
duckmother
North Little Rock, AR
(Zone 7b)
December 04, 2009
09:28 AM Post #7334228
| I so want to come to y'alls beautiful Country and see all of the lovely birds...along with my new friends from DG! Or, we could all meet in Hawaii and enjoy their scenery! :o)
Kim |
Lily_love
Central, AL
(Zone 7b)
December 04, 2009
09:54 AM Post #7334311
| Hi Kim, such a splendid idea! I'm getting packed, holler when you're ready. :-) |
duckmother
North Little Rock, AR
(Zone 7b)
December 04, 2009
10:00 AM Post #7334323
| I am ready! LOL |
Lily_love
Central, AL
(Zone 7b)
December 04, 2009
10:04 AM Post #7334327
| ...Okay, Hawaii is the destination right? Since in such a short noticed I haven't gotten a passport to Australia. lol. |
jrwbirds
Elberfeld, IN
(Zone 6a)
December 04, 2009
03:48 PM Post #7335320
| the colder it gets, the better Australia or Hawaii sounds !! |
Lily_love
Central, AL
(Zone 7b)
December 04, 2009
03:54 PM Post #7335334
| I agreed Jr. How cold is there in In. ? |
jrwbirds
Elberfeld, IN
(Zone 6a)
December 04, 2009
04:03 PM Post #7335356
| well, this morning it was 22 F - will get all the way to 35...wooppee!! We have such a wonderful long, pleasant Fall that we are spoiled...this is norm for Dec in Southern IN. Actually, I hope we have some really cold weather this winter so that the bugs and thei larvae and eggs are wiped out...we've not had that for a few years and the buggs are winning the battle...especially the dig fleas...UGH
on another note, have you guys noticed how many views this thread has...folks may not have a lot to say, but they sure do like looking...maybe they are taken by that brush turkey like I am...LOL
This message was edited Dec 4, 2009 2:09 PM |
hel
Alstonville
Australia
December 11, 2009
05:57 PM Post #7359752
| Hi Guy's, Hawaii, here we come (I wish). Maybe there is someone there that could post some pic's, at least we could pretend. We had a 35 celsius here yesterday, looks like a hot Christmas. May be someone could send me some snow to cool me off.
This is Larry the Rainbow Lorikeet, tapping on my window, waiting for a feed.
Click the image for an enlarged view.
|
jrwbirds
Elberfeld, IN
(Zone 6a)
December 11, 2009
06:28 PM Post #7359821
| love those lorikeets -they are so colorful, as are so many of your native birds...I love the fringed tongue these guys have.
15 F here this a.m. bbbrrrrr |
Lily_love
Central, AL
(Zone 7b)
December 11, 2009
06:30 PM Post #7359825
| hel, Larry is a handsome lad! Hot during Christmas, that is where I'd like to be. Though, missing out on the snow...but I think I can adapt. lol. |
Lily_love
Central, AL
(Zone 7b)
December 11, 2009
06:31 PM Post #7359833
| Mid 20's F. here not much warmer here, Jr. |
jrwbirds
Elberfeld, IN
(Zone 6a)
December 11, 2009
06:37 PM Post #7359857
| this weather has been a mess - I'm so glad all the snow missed us - as I get older, the less I enjoy the cold, snow, and short days. I have to wonder what the next 4 months will be like. |
Lily_love
Central, AL
(Zone 7b)
December 11, 2009
07:44 PM Post #7360025
| What's typical winter there? Jr. Here, although relatively mild, but cold enough for tropical birds. (pun intended). |
duckmother
North Little Rock, AR
(Zone 7b)
December 11, 2009
08:25 PM Post #7360144
| Oh my! What a beauty! Was Larry human raised or did he start tapping on the window because he is so smart? I have not ever been to Hawaii, but I cannot think of a better reason to visit. I would so love to meet some of our Australian friends!
jrw, come down to the southern US. We are mighty friendly and always have a glass of something for you to drink and a snack for you to eat ;o) We may get one snow a year and then the next day it may be 70 degrees. lol |
hel
Alstonville
Australia
December 11, 2009
10:57 PM Post #7360575
| Larry lives in the wild they can become very friendly but bossy toward other birds.
My cheeky Scaley Breasted Lorikeet
Click the image for an enlarged view.
|
pelletory
Marlton, NJ
December 12, 2009
06:14 AM Post #7361076
| He is sweet hel! |
duckmother
North Little Rock, AR
(Zone 7b)
December 12, 2009
09:47 AM Post #7361297
| Y'all truly have the most beautiful birds! Of course, I am pretty partial to the pink-eared ducks...after all, I am a duck mother ;o))
Of few of our birds get rather bossy, too, but I don't remember any of them knocking on the window for food. However, our ducks used to come to and quack at the door when it was time to come in for the night. lol |
jrwbirds
Elberfeld, IN
(Zone 6a)
December 12, 2009
03:48 PM Post #7362243
| lily_love - our winter varies so much - we usually go down to 0 F a few times, thankfully just a day or two at a time. I do remember several years ago when the high temp of the day did not get above 0 for 10 or 11 days. Anything that survived that winter was really tough !!
duckmother - don't tempt me...btw, what is a pink eared duck????
pic of my side yard after the ice storm last year - the upside of this was that all the bird feeders and water dishes were really busy...
This message was edited Dec 12, 2009 1:50 PM
Click the image for an enlarged view.
|
MargaretK
PERTH
Australia
December 12, 2009
08:45 PM Post #7363000
| jrwbirds, here are a few images of Pink-eared Ducks, photographed at a local wetland in Perth,Western Australia. Duckmother has been trying to get me to send her a crate of them for some time. 
Click the image for an enlarged view.
|
MargaretK
PERTH
Australia
December 12, 2009
08:47 PM Post #7363005
| Male and female. Very difficult to tell them apart. 
Click the image for an enlarged view.
|
MargaretK
PERTH
Australia
December 12, 2009
08:49 PM Post #7363012
| Close up showing the pink behind the eye which gives them their name. 
Click the image for an enlarged view.
|
duckmother
North Little Rock, AR
(Zone 7b)
December 12, 2009
08:56 PM Post #7363035
| You mean I am not getting any PE Ducks for Christmas? Rats! I will keep begging ;o)) Maybe, next year.
Lovely picture jrw. I bet you get many different types of birds to your feeders in the winter. |
Mrs_Ed
Whiteside County, IL
(Zone 5a)
December 12, 2009
09:00 PM Post #7363046
| OOO, post the pictures of the babies! they are so cute. |
MargaretK
PERTH
Australia
December 12, 2009
09:05 PM Post #7363060
| This is a really old shot, taken about 25 years ago, but it's probably the best I've ever taken of the babies.
OK, I'm off for a swim. LORRRL.
Click the image for an enlarged view.
|
Mrs_Ed
Whiteside County, IL
(Zone 5a)
December 12, 2009
09:11 PM Post #7363082
| Oh goodie a birthday swim!!!
Oh those babies are so cute. It always amazed me that those babies look just like miniature versions of the parents. Not like Mallards that looks so different. |
KathyJo
Fayette, MO
(Zone 6a)
December 12, 2009
09:40 PM Post #7363153
| oh my goodness.. I loved these pictures! Thanks for sharing.. |
burn_2007
Grand-Falls, NB
(Zone 4a)
December 12, 2009
10:09 PM Post #7363228
| Awww darling little things. Aren't they sweet? |
MargaretK
PERTH
Australia
December 12, 2009
10:46 PM Post #7363342
| Back from a glorious swim to celebrate Mrs Ed's happy birthday today/tomorrow/the 13th. The main beaches were so crowded I went to one where I sometimes go snorkeling. The shoreline has a string of Silver Gulls. 
Click the image for an enlarged view.
|
MargaretK
PERTH
Australia
December 12, 2009
10:47 PM Post #7363348
| I took my little point and shoot in swimming with me. 
Click the image for an enlarged view.
|
burn_2007
Grand-Falls, NB
(Zone 4a)
December 12, 2009
11:18 PM Post #7363433
| The water is so clear, looks like a nice spot for swimming. Did you take any pictures of the fishes and the reef? |
MargaretK
PERTH
Australia
December 12, 2009
11:48 PM Post #7363486
| It was lovely in, Burn. The water is still quite cold, which is refreshing when the temperature is so hot. Burn I didn't snorkel today, so didn't see any fish. Felt a couple of stingers, though.
Here's a small group of Silver Gulls.
Edited to make sense.
This message was edited Dec 13, 2009 11:48 AM
Click the image for an enlarged view.
|
NM_Jane
Las Cruces, NM
December 13, 2009
04:35 AM Post #7363880
| Hi everyone. Boy have I got a lot of catching up to do. Mike and I spent from mid-October through mid-November visiting Australia and New Zealand. By the time we got home, unpacked and settled, Thanksgiving was here. And now, Christmas is just around the corner. Ever since we got home, I've been spending most of my free time editing the photos from my trip; so I thought I'd contribute to this thread with some of the bird photo I took in Australia.
At first, I though this one was a magpie; but it's actually a Butcher Bird
(sorry ... had to fix a few typos!)
This message was edited Dec 13, 2009 1:46 AM
Click the image for an enlarged view.
|
NM_Jane
Las Cruces, NM
December 13, 2009
04:37 AM Post #7363881
| Here's a picture of the Australian Magpie. 
Click the image for an enlarged view.
|
NM_Jane
Las Cruces, NM
December 13, 2009
04:38 AM Post #7363882
| Sticking with the black & white theme, here's a Magpie Lark. 
Click the image for an enlarged view.
|
NM_Jane
Las Cruces, NM
December 13, 2009
04:40 AM Post #7363883
| And, one more b&w ... the beautiful Australian Pelican. 
Click the image for an enlarged view.
|
NM_Jane
Las Cruces, NM
December 13, 2009
04:41 AM Post #7363884
| And, another shot of an Australian Pelican. 
Click the image for an enlarged view.
|
NM_Jane
Las Cruces, NM
December 13, 2009
04:42 AM Post #7363885
| Last one of the pelican ... here's a whole flock of them. 
Click the image for an enlarged view.
|
NM_Jane
Las Cruces, NM
December 13, 2009
04:44 AM Post #7363886
| Now, for one last b&w bird ... the Australian Ibis. 
Click the image for an enlarged view.
|
NM_Jane
Las Cruces, NM
December 13, 2009
04:48 AM Post #7363887
| Just so you don't think all of the birds in Australia are black & white, here's a very colorful, male Rose-Crowned Fruit Dove. 
Click the image for an enlarged view.
|
NM_Jane
Las Cruces, NM
December 13, 2009
04:50 AM Post #7363888
| And another colorful one ... the Rainbow Lorikeet. These guys are beautiful; but you wouldn't believe how noisy they can be. 
Click the image for an enlarged view.
|
NM_Jane
Las Cruces, NM
December 13, 2009
04:56 AM Post #7363889
| This Galah was looking at me as if to say, "Hey, are you taking my picture?" One of the other ladies in out tour group owns a few cockatoos. She told me that these guys sell for about $2000 each in the US. One morning, I counted 20 of them on the ground and thought to myself, "There's $40K worth of birds!" It was truly unbelievable being in an area where they were wild and free. 
Click the image for an enlarged view.
|
NM_Jane
Las Cruces, NM
December 13, 2009
04:58 AM Post #7363890
| Here's a Silver Gull. We saw them just about everywhere in Australia except for the Outback. 
Click the image for an enlarged view.
|
NM_Jane
Las Cruces, NM
December 13, 2009
04:59 AM Post #7363892
| Here's one ... a Crested Pigeon ... that we only saw in the Outback. 
Click the image for an enlarged view.
|
NM_Jane
Las Cruces, NM
December 13, 2009
05:05 AM Post #7363894
| Here's a Masked Lapwing. I had only seen them at the zoo, so it was exciting to seem them in the wild. Incidentally, I didn't realize that there was a northern and eastern form of the Masked Lapwing. This one is the northern form. 
Click the image for an enlarged view.
|
NM_Jane
Las Cruces, NM
December 13, 2009
05:06 AM Post #7363895
| Next, we have the eastern form of the Masked Lapwing. Notice the black around its neck that the northern form didn't have. 
Click the image for an enlarged view.
|
NM_Jane
Las Cruces, NM
December 13, 2009
05:08 AM Post #7363896
| Here's an Eastern Reef Egret. I had never seen a black egret before; but we saw a lot of at Green Island, which is a small island in the Great Barrier Reef. 
Click the image for an enlarged view.
|
NM_Jane
Las Cruces, NM
December 13, 2009
05:10 AM Post #7363897
| This thread already has a few pictures of these guys... the Australian Brush Turkey; but I thought I'd add mine too. 
Click the image for an enlarged view.
|
NM_Jane
Las Cruces, NM
December 13, 2009
05:12 AM Post #7363899
| Here's a Buff-Banded Rail. We saw a lot of them at Green Island too. 
Click the image for an enlarged view.
|
NM_Jane
Las Cruces, NM
December 13, 2009
05:14 AM Post #7363900
| Here's a White-Necked Heron (They were formerly called Pacific Herons) 
Click the image for an enlarged view.
|
NM_Jane
Las Cruces, NM
December 13, 2009
05:15 AM Post #7363901
| And here's another heron ... a Rufous Night Heron 
Click the image for an enlarged view.
|
NM_Jane
Las Cruces, NM
December 13, 2009
05:18 AM Post #7363902
| Here's a pair of Black-Necked Storks, called Jabiru. 
Click the image for an enlarged view.
|
NM_Jane
Las Cruces, NM
December 13, 2009
05:19 AM Post #7363904
| Next, here's a pair of Magpie Geese. 
Click the image for an enlarged view.
|
NM_Jane
Las Cruces, NM
December 13, 2009
05:21 AM Post #7363905
| Oops, I should have included this one ... a Royal Spoonbill ... with my other B&W birds. 
Click the image for an enlarged view.
|
NM_Jane
Las Cruces, NM
December 13, 2009
05:25 AM Post #7363909
| oh, here's another black & white ... a cute little Willie Wagtail. 
Click the image for an enlarged view.
|
NM_Jane
Las Cruces, NM
December 13, 2009
05:31 AM Post #7363911
| I'm pretty sure that this one is a Flame Robin; but the Scarlet Robin looks very similar. It sure was a pretty little birds and doesn't look anything like our American Robin. 
Click the image for an enlarged view.
|
NM_Jane
Las Cruces, NM
December 13, 2009
05:33 AM Post #7363912
| Here are a few Australian Ringneck Parrots that were just sitting in a tree at our hotel in Alice Springs. 
Click the image for an enlarged view.
|
NM_Jane
Las Cruces, NM
December 13, 2009
05:35 AM Post #7363913
| Here's a whole tree full of Little Corellas. 
Click the image for an enlarged view.
|
NM_Jane
Las Cruces, NM
December 13, 2009
05:36 AM Post #7363914
| And, here's just one Little Corella all by itself. 
Click the image for an enlarged view.
|
NM_Jane
Las Cruces, NM
December 13, 2009
05:37 AM Post #7363916
| This one is a Torresian Imperial Pigeon. 
Click the image for an enlarged view.
|
NM_Jane
Las Cruces, NM
December 13, 2009
05:38 AM Post #7363917
| This one is a Comb-Cested Jacana. It is also called a Lily Trotter because it walks around on the water lily pads.
(Oops, more typos to fix. One day I may learn how to type ... LOL)
This message was edited Dec 13, 2009 2:39 AM
Click the image for an enlarged view.
|
NM_Jane
Las Cruces, NM
December 13, 2009
05:42 AM Post #7363918
| This one is a Spiny-Cheeked Honeyeater 
Click the image for an enlarged view.
|
NM_Jane
Las Cruces, NM
December 13, 2009
05:43 AM Post #7363919
| Here's another honeyeater; but this one is a Yellow-Throated Honeyeater 
Click the image for an enlarged view.
|
NM_Jane
Las Cruces, NM
December 13, 2009
05:45 AM Post #7363920
| From the size of this one, I believe it's an Australian Raven. 
Click the image for an enlarged view.
|
NM_Jane
Las Cruces, NM
December 13, 2009
05:53 AM Post #7363924
| Here's a Common Myna. I just love the yellow around its eye; but they are considered pest bird in Australia.
Also, thanks Margaret for helping me identify it. The photo in the Australian Bird Guide shows it as being much more of a red-brown color.
Well, that's all of the Australian birds I've got. Hopefully, I finish editing the New Zealand birds and get them posted soon. In all, I saw about 85 different species of birds and most of them are new additions to my life list. It really was a great trip; but the flight was a killer.
Click the image for an enlarged view.
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pelletory
Marlton, NJ
December 13, 2009
06:39 AM Post #7363941
| Excellent shots Jane!! So glad you were able to visit Australia and New Zealand. All the birds are beautiful; I love the Doves and Comb-crested Jacana! |
MargaretK
PERTH
Australia
December 13, 2009
06:59 AM Post #7363958
| Wonderful series, Jane. A lot of the birds you saw aren't in my area. I just love the Rose-crowned Fruit Dove. And you are so right about the noise of the Rainbow Lorikeets - has to be heard to be believed, eh? Both the Butcherbirds and the Australian Magpies are magnificent songsters. Did you get a chance to hear them?
|
Mrs_Ed
Whiteside County, IL
(Zone 5a)
December 13, 2009
09:35 AM Post #7364133
| Holy moly! that's a lot of vacation birds. congrats! |
duckmother
North Little Rock, AR
(Zone 7b)
December 13, 2009
10:42 AM Post #7364245
| Wow! Lovely photos! I think I would like to have a dove as well as pink-eared ducks! It is not too late to send those for Christmas, Mags ;o)
Happy Birthday, Marna!!! |
Mrs_Ed
Whiteside County, IL
(Zone 5a)
December 13, 2009
11:02 AM Post #7364293
| Thanks Kim! |
jrwbirds
Elberfeld, IN
(Zone 6a)
December 13, 2009
12:59 PM Post #7364649
| Oh gosh - You Aussies have such incredible birds !! We've got great birds in USA, but nothing like your natives.
When we have snow and ice cover, the birds come in to the feeders like a swarm of bees - really enjoy them. The funny thing is that I have several cats outside and they NEVER catch a bird !! In the spring when the fledglings are just getting out, one will often end up on the ground. The amazing thing is that a couple cats will go over to it and sort of stand guard - when I go out there and put the baby back in the tree, I always praise them and give them a bit of shrimp. I find this amazing, but the cats are familiar with my small birds in my greenhouse and KNOW that I'd blister their furry butts if they bothered those birds so I guess, this awareness is used in the yard as well.
The Galah does sell for over $2000 in the States and is usually not readily available. All of the cockatoos command a pretty high price - the hand raised ones are just wonderful - I've had my Umbrella aka White cockatoo for 22 years and enjoy her antics so much.
Love the doves and pigeons - have a large flight cage (12' x 24') that has a sheltered are on one end that protects the birds from the extreme cold and wind. Have several breeds of "fancy" pigeons but nothing like what you have as natives.
Now, about that Pink Eyed Duck - the bill looks so unique - what special feeding techniques does the PED have that uses this beak?
And - like that impressive Brush Turkey, I guess the PED would not be able to survive in my area either...drats !!
One of my life's desire is to travel thru Australia, taking enough time to really see the country - this thread is really reinforcing that wish. |
NM_Jane
Las Cruces, NM
December 13, 2009
02:11 PM Post #7364830
| Thanks everyone. Our trip really was a "once-in-a-lifetime" experience; and we had such a great time. If I saw something with wings, I tried to snap a photo or two of it. Even the Aussie flies were more colorful than our. 
Click the image for an enlarged view.
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hel
Alstonville
Australia
December 13, 2009
10:21 PM Post #7366274
| What part of Austrlia did you visit Jane? Great pics.
This little fellow has just started to visit us, I call him stubby because he has lost his tail feathers.
Click the image for an enlarged view.
|
NM_Jane
Las Cruces, NM
December 13, 2009
11:19 PM Post #7366403
| Hi Hel. He's a beauty Hel. Hopefully, he sticks around for you.
As for Australia, we managed to visit every state but WA. We started off in Cairns and stayed there for 3 nights. While we were in Cairns, we did a day trip to Green Island and another day trip up to Kuranda. From Cairns, we flew to Ayres Rock for 1 night, and then to Alice Spring for another 1 night stay. Next we flew up to Darwin; but we didn't actually stay there. Instead, we drove to Kakadu and spent 2 nights there. We visited the Yellow Waters Billabong area of the park; but I wish we had stayed longer and visited the rain forest area too. From Kakadu, we drove back to Darwin and then flew down to Melbourne for 3 nights. While we were in Melbourne, we went to Philip Island to see the little penguin parade. The fairy penguins were so cute; but they didn't allow photos of them. From Melbourne, we flew to Hobard for 2 nights and visited the old prison at Port Arthur and the Tasmanian Devil Conservation Park. Next, we flew to Sydney and stayed 3 nights. Of all the places we visited in Australia, I think Sydney was my favorite city.
From Sydney, we flew to New Zealand and visited both the South and North Island, with 1-3 night stays in Queenstown, Mt. Cook, Christchurch, Wellington, Rotorua and Auckland.
It was a wonderful trip; but a bit exhausting. I think we covered something like 20,000 miles in the month we were there. |
burn_2007
Grand-Falls, NB
(Zone 4a)
December 13, 2009
11:32 PM Post #7366452
| Amazingly beautiful !!! |
Mrs_Ed
Whiteside County, IL
(Zone 5a)
December 14, 2009
08:32 AM Post #7367139
| Boy, I'm worn out just reading that! |
