Rufous Whistlers are a summer migrant to West Gippsland,
unlike our resident, if slightly nomadic at times, Golden Whistler.
Rufous Whistlers are beginning to arrive from inland and
northern Australia to breed in our eucalypt woodlands before departing again in
March – April. A couple of pairs are currently establishing their territories
within Thornell’s Reserve at present and the song is spectacular and powerful
(external link - speakers on /graemechapman.com.au).
The male rufous is very like the male golden except the breast
and belly are a deep rufous colour rather than golden yellow.
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| Male Rufous Whistler |
The charming female has much more subdued plumage and
appears very similar to the female golden apart from the dark streaks on the
breast and some darker feathers in the wing coverts.
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| Female Rufous Whistler |
Other recent arrivals to Thornells include the master of
aerial flight, the Dusky Woodswallow …
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| Dusky Woodswallow |
… and the brood parasite, the Shining Bronze Cuckoo …
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| Shining Bronze Cuckoo |
Although non-migratory, the Crested Shrike-tit is a
relatively uncommon species that is being driven into decline by the clearing
of its eucalypt habitat. Thornell’s Reserve is a refuge for this bird but for
how long? The eucs in the reserve are under pressure from dieback and mistletoe
attack and many large mature trees appear stressed.
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| Crested Shrike-tit |
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| Mistletoe at Thornell's Reserve |
Save the trees and we might save the birds, or even the
planet!