Better light and a closer approach this time.
These images were collected just moments after I witnessed a thrilling encounter between two White-bellied Sea-eagles and a lone Wedge-tailed Eagle that had apparently transgressed into their territory. More on that later.
White-bellied Sea-eagle (immature), Welshman’s Reef, 14th August 2017
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Wedge-tailed Eagle and White-bellied Sea-eagle duelling
Posted in Bird observations, Cairn Curran, Raptors
Another episode from my fraternising with sea-eagles at the weekend. This ‘pair’ consists of an immature/subadult, seen here arriving at the perch to disturb its partner, a fully fledged adult bird. White-bellied Sea-eagles are a joy to behold in flight – I feel so fortunate to be able to see them on a regular basis.
White-bellied Sea-eagles, Welshman’s Reef, 13th August 2017
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Posted in Bird observations, Cairn Curran, Raptors
This is one of two immature White-bellied Sea-eagles seen late yesterday near Welshman’s Reef – what a majestic sight!
White-bellied Sea-eagle, Welshman’s Reef, 13th August 2017
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Posted in Bird observations, Cairn Curran, Raptors
This ‘pair’ of Black-shouldered Kites were another highlight of my visits to the Moolort silos during the week.
There were actually three birds in the party, two adults and an immature bird, possibly one of last seasons offspring. I watched them for almost 15 minutes as they sparred and parried in what appeared to be a mix of courtship and combat. I’m not at all sure about the purpose of these antics.
The immature bird is distinguished by the dark plumage around the throat and neck.
Black-shouldered Kites, Moolort silos, 31st July 2017
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Posted in Bird observations, Moolort Plains, Raptors
Competition for perches was fierce amongst these Nankeen Kestrels – these two look like adult females judging by the rufous tail and upper parts.
Nankeen Kestrels, Moolort silos, 31st July 2017
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Posted in Bird observations, Moolort Plains, Raptors
A tip from a reader led me to the Moolort silos last evening. I hadn’t been there for some time and was delighted to see not one, but eleven Nankeen Kestrels, using a variety of high perches from which to launch frequent forays into the surrounding landscape in search of prey. Three Black-shouldered Kites and a Black Kite capped off a nice jaunt.
Nankeen Kestrel, Moolort Plains, 31st July 2017
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Posted in Bird observations, Moolort Plains, Raptors
A Brown Falcon lifting gently into the air … one of a number seen on the plains last week.
Brown Falcon, Moolort Plains, 27th July 2017
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Posted in Bird observations, Moolort Plains, Raptors
Next workshops - Spring 2017 ... Click the Painted Snipe for details!
Natural Newstead acknowledges the Dja Dja Wurrung as Traditional Owners of this Country
Delias aganippe
