Hidden in the Hills – Birds
It could be said that bushland would not be the same if there weren’t any birds around. When walking through bushland reserves it is possible to encounter many birds as they search for food either on the ground, through the undergrowth or in the treetops.
Larger birds, because they are more easily seen appear to be fairly common. However, it can be the smaller birds which tend to captivate a bird watching enthusiast.
It is a very fortunate occurrence to come across a bird in the process of nest building. It can even be more interesting to observe a parent bird supplying food to its demanding juvenile.
To successfully observe most birdlife in bushland forests it is important to remember that humans are intruders in their environment. Most small birds will keep their distance as you walk along a bush track.
If you are specifically in the bush to observe birds it is advisable to wear bush coloured clothing which makes you less noticeable. Remember to move slowly, talking softly to anyone with you. Don’t make sudden movements like pointing at arms length to where you think you have just spotted a bird. Take a pair of binoculars with you as well.
If you have a camera with you, avoid moving it suddenly to eye level, as birds have an amazingly quick reflex to sudden movement causing them to “disappear” in an instant. For best results when capturing images of small birds in particular, a telephoto or zoom lens is almost essential.
Birds naturally are most active when searching for food in the early parts of the day. A greater variety of birds can be located where there is water, such as a creek or a lagoon nearby.
The images accompanying this column are just a small selection of the overall bird population that can be readily spotted in local woodland areas.
This year the 2024 “Aussie Backyard Bird Count” will be held during Bird Week from Monday, October 14, to Sunday, October 20. For more information enter this web address into your browser – https:// aussiebirdcount.org.au
Lachlan will be presenting a “Do You Know That Bird” Workshop on Thursday October 17 at 10.00 am, at the Community Environment Centre in Currie Avenue, Annangrove,. The workshop is free, but bookings are essential through Eventbrite at the Hills Shire Council web site.
