Junior Lapwing steps forward

Almost missed seeing young Masked Lapwing (Vanellus miles) beside cattle road near coast yesterday.

Screaming parent gave game away. Birds settled down when car stopped.

Used passenger-side window as camera support. Sprawled from driver's seat and fought cramp and aching knee. The things we do ...

Earlier, came upon Lemon-bellied Flycatcher (Microeca flavigaster) in coastal woodland. Species used to turn up in Tyto, but largely absent for past four years.

Unhappy first sighting near Ingham (for me) of Australian Pratincole (Stiltia isabella) on cattle road. Bird ran along road. Behaviour, drooping right wing indicate fracture. Water, food and cover enough for short-term survival.