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

Jabirus carry on life in the sticks

Time for spot of rebuilding by local pair of Black-necked Stork (Ephippiorhynchus asiaticus) with the birds this morning heading southwest across the main lagoon at Tyto carrying nest sticks. Just the one trip by each bird. Perhaps more to come.

Rarer sighting yesterday, with immature White-eared Monarch (Carterornis leucotis) showing out around outer foliage of  trees near the lookout. Bit early in the year for the uncommon visitor: some years go by without any sightings.

Meanwhile Little Kingfisher (Ceyx pusilla) keeps popping up along the creekline and also, as above, among the pink lotuses on the lagoon. 
Click pix to enlarge