Check my birding map for specific location.
Moving north again from Cobar, I took a detour west into the Gundabooka National Park. My first stop was the Dry Tank Campground and I drove about 25km on red dirt track to get there. I knew the van was going to pay for that. The inside was probably worst with the dust visible in the air when I arrived. Sigh, a lot of cleaning. But never mind, the place was really interesting with dry mallee plants and gums. But it was dry, dry dry and very few birds. It was very hot too.
After a quick walk around, I retreated to the van which didn't help much. However, I was soon visited by a male Red-capped Robin. Struggling to get my camera up, the bird was very helpful and came closer. It was just stunning as it sat and sang for me.
Red-capped Robin (Petroica goodenovii)
Late in the afternoon, I decided to drive north through the park to another campsite which was by the River Darling. It was an even longer drive along the red track and after dodging several kangaroo and now also being covered in red dust, I arrived. It was quite arduous but so worth it.
The campsite was in a clearing and there were only a couple of other campers there. A short walk through gorgeous gum trees led to a bank overlooking the river. It was stunning and although the light was failing, there were still plenty of birds about.
Throughout the area wheeled and screamed the Ringnecks. These are the Mallee subspecies and I was thrilled to photograph them as that makes all 4 of the distinct subspecies I have photographed.
Mallee Ringneck (Barnardius zonarius barnardi)
Also around were the Mulga Parrots, my first sightings since last year. These guys were feeding on the ground and were tolerant of my presence so I got really close which was wonderful as I got to see how really beautiful they are.
Male Mulga Parrot (Psephotus varius)
Little Woodswallow (Artamus minor)
Masked Woodswallow (Artamus personatus)
White-browed Woodswallow (Artamus superciliosus)
White-breasted Woodswallow (Artamus leucorynchus)
On my way out of the park I saw something on the track and as I slowed down, I realised it was a huge lizard. I didn't think I had seen this one before as it had a bright yellow tail. Here is a head shot and full body. Just look at how long the body and tail are!
Sand Goanna (Varanus gouldii)
eBird Lists
No comments:
Post a Comment