From the Field Notebook: Raptor Morning

Posted in Black-shouldered Kite, Brown Falcon, Collared Sparrowhawk, Nankeen Kestrel, Point Cook, Whistling Kite

We had chosen to go to Point Cook to see if we might get some close in Gannet hunting pics.

Well they were there, but so, so far out. Perhaps 40-50 of them, and a great splash was in progress. Lovely to watch, but no photos of distinction.

However, the day was not lost, as we managed to have visits from no less than 7 different raptor species. Didn’t manage a worthwhile shot of the Collared Sparrowhawk or a departing Swamp Harraier, but we were entertained over a cup of the Grey of Earl, by 5 Whistling Kites that seemed to want to play through the tall pines at the water’s edge.

Mike the Black-shouldered Kite is still busy as Madeline is sitting on a new clutch.
Mike the Black-shouldered Kite is still busy as Madeline is sitting on a new clutch.
Interesting to find a pair of Little Eagles. They kept high in the air to prevent the local Magpie neighbourhood watch from harassing them
Cassia, of Cinnamon, and Alistair made a brief appearance, and were happy to sit together and exchange calls.
While not a resident, this Hobby is making occassional shows through the park
Five Whistling Kites were out for a morning’s fun. They kept us entertained as they chased each other through the trees
We haven’t seen good number of the kites for a couple of seasons. The wonderful rich wing markings that kind of resemble a studded jacket were a treat.
Such big birds, yet so highly manoeuvreable through the trees.
And as we headed for home we found two Kestrels at hunt

Just shows that sometimes a day is unpredictable.
Enjoy

10 thoughts on “From the Field Notebook: Raptor Morning”

  1. A fabulous day in the coastal park, David! Great to see the Whistling Kites, it has been a while since I have seen one!
    A wonderful pictorial documentation of all the raptors!

    Liked by 1 person

    Reply

  3. Wow David ! What a rapturous collection of raptors my friend all in one place, any birder would be in raptures. Beautiful captures and little eagles also, a rarity for us. Whistlers like the tops of Norfolk pine trees, I have seen them trying to balance right on the top, it gives a great vantage. It would have been nice to see the Gannets, we only see them fishing with their youngsters off Cape Banks at the mouth of Botany Bay when we visit there whale watching.

    Liked by 1 person

    Reply

    1. Hello Ashley
      The Whistling Kites are certainly entertaining. Just happened to be there at the right time
      The gannets are following the fish up our end of the bay at present. Just a pity the deeper water is so far ou

      Liked by 1 person

      Reply

  5. In spite of missing out on the Gannets, you still got a stunning selection of Raptors David. Beautifully presented Sir, and a pleasure to view…!!!

    Liked by 1 person

    Reply

G'day, Please feel free to Leave a Reply. Now auto approved

This site uses Akismet to reduce spam. Learn how your comment data is processed.