Dry conditions continue with only some very light showers to dampen the dust recently. This White-necked Heron has been taking advantage of the drying ponds for some time and seems to share space with a Great Egret quite amicably.
The neck markings on the W-N Heron, which are quite striking in its non-breeding plumage, are just visible from this angle.
We rarely see a female Darter on our wetlands and a second male visiting usually creates considerable angst for our regular male although he is tolerant of Little Pied Cormorant, Egrets, White-faced and White-necked Herons.
This Australasian Darter had just emerged from the water and had given itself a good shake so that its previously saturated feathers appeared almost fluffy. As it made its way up the post to dry off it used its tail for balance and gripped tightly with its webbed feet. The outstretched wings provided more balance assistance as well as some ‘lift’ to help it get to the top of the post where it could dry off more thoroughly.
As the dry weather continues any remaining waterholes will become very popular ….. so we’ll wait and watch with anticipation.
Allen
Barbara
Very interesting observations about which birds live happily with other birds. The photos of the darter using tail and wings for balance are great.
G’day Barbara,
Nice to get the Heron and the Egret in the one shot – that’s well done. The Darter on the golf course dam down here seems to have departed.
I enjoyed your report, thanks,
Gouldiae.
Thanks Mick and Gouldiae for your comments. In the last few days several Royal Spoonbill have made themselves at home and are happily making the most of feeding opportunities.