This is on the personal blog rather than
the Bunjaree Website, because I’m merely testing an idea.
I have tested this with my brother-in-law,
a birder and bird photographer of 40 years’ experience, and I’d like feedback
on it before I try it in earnest.
The idea is a birding weekend at Bunjaree
Cottages – not for experienced birders, but for those that would like to see
some of the most difficult-to-spot birds of the Australian bush close-up.
The weekend would be led by Dr Graham Cam,
who has an intimate knowledge of Australia’s bird species and their ecology,
and is also a noted bird photographer.
The activities would take place on the
grounds of Bunjaree Cottages, and in other nearby Blue Mountains locations.
We’re still working out some of the details, so feedback would be welcome.
1.
Netting
“Mist nets”, which catch birds harmlessly,
have to be laid before the birds are active. Getting up before sunrise to help
set the nets is optional, but certainly part of the experience!
2.
Checking the nets
This is where the fun and education
happens. The party will tour the nets, getting close-ups of bird species that don't often sit still - and are murder to photograph. The birds then get sexed and banded – and if
any of them have been previously banded, their bands will be recorded to be
reported to the Australian Bird and Bat Banding Scheme overseen by the
Department of the Environment.
Graham will be on hand to talk about all
the birds found in the nets. It will be, as far as possible (remembering that
the birds’ well-being is paramount), a real “bird in the hand” experience.
3.
Breakfast
You’ll be getting hungry by now, so it’s
back to your cottage for breakfast.
So far, so good. The next question is this:
after breakfast, which is better:
A.
Organised bird-spotting /
photography
B.
Leave guests to themselves for
the rest of the day
Under option A, we would select a destination
that doesn’t need a 4x4 to reach, arrange a meet-up time, and spend a few hours
on a photography / bird-spotting bushwalk. Under option B, guests spend the
rest of their Saturday taking in the other delights of the Blue Mountains.
Anyone interested in an idea like this –
let me know your thoughts in the comments!
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