Kay Parkin Birding: Kaurna Park Wetland Birding

Saturday, June 18, 2011

Kaurna Park Wetland Birding

Today I spent a few hours birding between rain showers at Kaurna Park in Burton, near Salisbury in South Australia. This urban wetland was formerly degraded farm land. The wetlands act as a natural filtration and water treatment system. This area is excellent for birding.

Red Wattlebird

Red Wattlebirds are in huge numbers as are Purple-crowned Lorikeets.

Purple-crowned Lorikeet

Both New Holland and White-plumed Honeyeaters were also abundant.

White-plumed Honeyeaters

Sacred Ibis, Little Pied Cormorants, White-faced Heron and Purple Swamphen were present. I also had a Spotted Crake but was unable to capture a photo of it.

Australian Magpie enjoys a meal

This park is definately worth a visit but ensure to allow plenty of time to get around it!

Do you want to start bird watching?

Birding is a great hobby and can be done easily and without much expense. You can simply go for a walk and take note of the birds you see! If you are new to birding you may not know what the birds are called so I'd suggest carrying a note book so you can make some notes on their colour, size and markings so you can then identify them when you get home.

To identify them you can use an Australian Bird Field Guide - I'd suggest Pizzey, otherwise you can use a website which has photos of Australian birds such as www.bushpea.com

You can start listing every species of bird that you see. You will be surprised at how quickly your total increases. It is so much fun and you could encourage your family and friends to join you.

You will need a pair of binoculars - 10 x 40 is a good size. I use Nikon Monarch but try them out in the shop to get a light pair that suits you.

BIRDER

Saturday, June 18, 2011

Kaurna Park Wetland Birding