Kay Parkin Birding: Birding in the Southern Flinders Ranges

Saturday, April 6, 2013

Birding in the Southern Flinders Ranges

This weekend I decided to head north to try and photograph a bird that although I've seen a few times I've never managed a photo.

The Southern Flinders are easily accessed being only 4 hours from Adelaide.

A hike into a gorge this morning was rewarded with ongoing views of Grey-fronted Honeyeaters. I could hear them before I could see them. Being canopy dwellers and with poor light in the gorge I knew photography would be a challenge, but a few photos, even if grainy, are better than no photos!

Many of the gorges in this area are home to the endangered Yellow-footed Rock Wallaby. Sadly the feral goat population is out of control and today I say 7 goats and no rock wallabies. Very sad...

Grey-fronted Honeyeaters

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, April 6, 2013

Birding in the Southern Flinders Ranges