La Nina falls keep species down

September didn't see any Sharp-tailed Sandpipers (Calidris acuminata) in Tyto. (Above bird seen this week, with Common Greenshank and Black-tailed Godwit, on tidal lagoon beside my favourite country road).


It seems with La Nina's hold deepening, more rain falling and Tyto Wetlands water levels at capacity there'll be no muddy shallows to attract migratory waders before the Wet proper sets in. Species count for September, 113, 10 down on 2009.

So, off west to see nesting Wompoo Fruit-Dove (Ptilinopus magnificus), peering distantly through the rainforest gloom, near the Wallaman Falls road. Impossible to gain clear view of bird. Will try again in a week or so. 
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Listen, Mistletoebirds glisten

Lots of noise from Mistletoebirds (Dicaeum hirundinaceum) in Tyto these days, but seldom any birds sitting close to the ground. 

Came upon this one yesterday while riding around the main lagoon. Bird kept moving so no chance to get off bike and take steadier pictures. But at least they show glistening colours of adult male.  

Female Rufous Whistler (Pachycephala rufiventris) gets set for bit of green breakfast. Bird took insect from upper foliage, lost it twice and finally snatched it up out of grass and leaf litter.

And here's a Rufous-throated Honeyeater (Conopophila rufogularis) looking for an evening morsel in overcast gloom.


Picture taken in area usually parched at this time of year. But La Nina is taking hold. Latest rains have pushed main lagoon to capacity. If reed bed shallows do not dry out wader counts will be low this 'dry' season. And fewer water birds will gather on Tyto lagoons, given plenty of water everywhere in the area.
Click pix to enlarge