Highlights of the day would have to include birding at Trephina Gorge in the East MacDonnell Ranges, a beautful cliffy area. This area produced some great birds including Dusky Grasswrens but for me the most exciting bird was definately the prolonged crippling views of Spinifexbird. This bird looks a bit like a cross between a Grassbird and Grasswren! It certainly flies like a Grasswren, with its long heavy drooping tail. Wow! What a wonderful bird.
Spinifex Pigeon was also a real treat. So much smaller than its cousin, the Crested Pigeon. We explored numerous cliffs before locating them. Such a beautiful, dainty little pigeon. The prettiest I've ever seen.
Today I was able to get a much better view of the Grey-headed Honeyeater, we also enjoyed Splendid Fairywren, Budgies, Yellow-throated Miner, Crested Bellbird, Hooded robins along with numerous Thornbill species.
Immature Pied Butcherbird who was very interested in the Spinifex Pigeons!
This afternoon we headed out to Hamilton Downs on the northern boundary of the West MacDonnell Ranges. White-winged Fairywrens, Zebra Finch, Pipits, Spiny-cheeked and Singing Honeyeaters, Mulga Parrots put on a show before we were graced with lovely views of a flock of Banded Lapwing.
Alice Springs is a wonderful place and a great birding location!
Banded Lapwing
Immature Pied Butcherbird
Cattle Yard
Nice views while searching for Spinifex Pigeons!
