Birding Tropical Australia

It was a dismal day of weather … overcast skies and light drizzle from the outset, put pay to seeing crocodiles well, although we did have a fleeting view of a ’salty’ beneath the mangroves on the way back.

The only river kingfisher we saw well was an Azure Kingfisher as we docked at the breakwater in a heavy downpour. We did hear a Little (and last time I was here, we had cracking views) but I guess the weather had driven him deeper under cover.

There was the usual smattering of Shining Flycatchers, the brilliant chestnut, black and white females and deep marine blue of the males. The trip was made a great success however, with cracking views of Great-billed Heron right at the start. I’m fortunate to have seen this bird both times I’ve been out with Chris. Others have not been so lucky.

Despite its size, it can be very difficult to spot. It moves slowly and purposefully and is beautifully camouflaged against the branches of mangroves. Locally it’s known as the ‘crocodile bird’, as it eats young salties. That camouflage must come to good use both to find prey and avoid being eaten by mum and dad!