10,000 Birds

JANUARY 18, 2012

The lake was filled with families of Dusky Moorhens and Purple Swamphens (or Pukeko as we call them in New Zealand), all tending small groups of black chicks. Magpie-larks are neither magpies nor larks but are the largest of the monarch-flycatchers, and the most terrestrial of the family.

New Zealand 170

New Zealand Ducks Australia Japan 170

10,000 Birds

MARCH 17, 2013

As we wandered along the trail we soon encountered family groups of both White-winged Fairywrens and Variegated Fairywrens. Apparently they breed to the south and return to feed at Lake Bindegolly. There was evidence of terns breeding at some earlier stage by the remaining carcasses in the bush. Feral pigs. Orange Chat.

Feral 145

Feral Pelicans Ducks Pigs 145

10,000 Birds

AUGUST 10, 2011

Feral Turkey are also quite common. This New Zealand endemic, more than any other, has benefited from the clearing of forest and pairs are commonly seen everywhere you go in New Zealand, often with their large families in tow. But these aren’t the only large ground-loving birds you might encounter.

New Zealand 172

New Zealand Birds Thailand Falcons 172