New birds to monitor at the RBG Melbourne ClimateWatch Trail
December 2013
Just in time for summer, the ClimateWatch and Royal Botanic Gardens Melbourne staff have been busy adding new bird species to monitor on their ClimateWatch Trail.
The new species are now available to monitor through the website and through the ClimateWatch app. Can you spot any of these birds this summer?
Image courtesy of Marj K. |
The Black Swan, Cygnus atratus, can be found all year, but breeding occurs from February to September. They are the only black coloured swan in the world. |
Image courtesy of G. Miles |
The Dusky Moorhen, Gallinula tenebrosa, can be found all year, but breeding occurs from August to March. Often found near water, these birds build their nest amongst reeds or on floating platforms on water. |
Image courtesy of Marj K. |
The Grey Butcherbird, Cracticus torquatus, can be found all year, but breeding occurs from July to January. These birds are aggressive predators of other smaller birds, lizards, and insects. Leftovers may be stored in tree forks for later.
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Image courtesy of Marj K. |
The White-faced Heron, Egretta novaehollandiae, can be found all year, but breeding occurs from October to December. Adults have brown nuptial plumes on their neck, face, and backs which replace their grey feathers. |