Kay Parkin Birding: Latham Snipe Party

Saturday, December 7, 2013

Latham Snipe Party

Summer is a fun time to go snipe chasing. Today I managed to find over 80 Latham Snipe on a lake in the South East of South Australia.

Sitting quietly next to a lake the birds just kept arriving.. and arriving....

This bird is very shy and likes to hide in the samphire so I was pleased to finally manage a few photos.

So well camouflaged

They can be difficult to see when they stand still!

How many can you see?

They just kept arriving!

Running for cover when seen

As soon as they see you they flush...

Latham Snipe

Red-kneed Dotterel shielding 2 chicks

Red-kneed Dotterel shielding 2 chicks and a 3rd about to climb in!

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, December 7, 2013

Latham Snipe Party