Kay Parkin Birding: Adelaide Hills in winter

Monday, August 24, 2015

Adelaide Hills in winter

Driving around the Adelaide Hills on a cold winters day does not have to feel dreary. If you look you can see the beauty and enjoy the freshness and, if you are lucky you might even spot a few birds who don't mind what the weather is like. Ducks are a good example of this!!

Australasian Shoveler

Pink-eared Duck

Freckled Duck

Common Bronze-wing

Freckled Duck doing yoga to keep warm...

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

Monday, August 24, 2015

Adelaide Hills in winter