Surprise find tops glittering sights

Surprise find flitting about the outer foliage of trees at western end of the main lagoon today, immature White-eared Monarch (Carterornis leucotis). Been about three years since species last turned up in Tyto. The atypically dry year may bring even more uncommon sightings as drought takes a killer grip on almost all of central and western Queensland.

Much more common, but difficult to do full colour justice to, male Red-backed Fairy-wren (Malurus melanocephalus), one of many glittering in the sunshine today.

Another looking smart against clear blue sky, Forest Kingfisher (Todiramphus macleayii), seldom quite so willing to let me walk close by.

And what brilliant morning in Tyto is complete without the local darling,  Crimson Finch (Neochmia phaeton).

Total species count for the morning: 74. Listed on eBird