Shining moment catching up with shy Flycatcher

Chased pair of Shining Flycatchers back and forth along section of tangled mangroves at edge of small wetland (mostly dry, but muddy!) in Townsville this morning after hearing male (above) calling.

It helps to know the species - especially the male - usually forages predictably, low, along the edges of heavily shadowed wet areas. So, first catch up with the birds, then try to get ahead of them and wait.

Allow for probability they'll turn back and leave you standing. Several times. Also allow for frustration in failing to get clear sightings most of the time.

As also with Leaden Flycatcher the other day. Great pose, pity about the shadow.

Bit luckier with Buff-banded Rail recently. Only this one shot saw bird's tail cocked enough to clear blade of grass otherwise obscuring it.
 

Darter one among many making a splash

Distant Little Bitterns exciting visiting Birdlife photographers this weekend, but not making same splash as this Australasian Darter (Anhinga novehollandiae) indulging today in circular water ballet of unknown cause. Some say rounding up fish. Seems not so to me, though who knows?

Can always rely on a splash of red from Crimson Finch (Neochmia phaeton), though usually more tidily feathered..

Similarly attractive - and tidier - Red-browed Finch (Neochmia temporalis).

Stepping out in style near the hide this morning, White-browed Crake (Amaurornis cinerea).

And stepping out near the entrance before latest scrub slashing moved it along, Buff-banded Rail (Gallirallus philippensis).