FIELD NOTES

Some 287 species of birds occur in the Maningrida/Liverpool River region. Many are migrants, with perhaps a dozen vagrants boosting numbers in some season. Of note during the field trip was that common species – galahs, quails, and dotterels – were not seen. The probable reason was that most waterholes were dry, while the grass and woodlands had been burned - providing no cover or food for these birds. Some early season storms had occurred to the west, and these birds may have moved over, something they generally do. No night survey was undertaken.

During peak times, another 20 or more species could be added to the list when conditions are suitable.

Of surprise were a pair of Black-backed Wagtails feeding on the burned Tomkinson River floodplain, some 300m from the woodland fringe. Identification was positive; including size as an Australian Pratincole closely followed them.

Observation was between 50 to 80m from a 4WD, though the birds were skittish and shy and flew away when approached on foot.

Three Red Goshawks were seen, one on the plains and the others in the woodlands.

TOTALS : In total 196 bird species were recorded. The best day (half) was 67 species on the Tomkinson River floodplain and woodland fringe. This included swamps and billabongs, though only one had water remaining in it, due to the prolonged dry season.

Honeyeaters were the most common birds seen.

Another 27 species were recorded along the tidal and freshwater section of the river the following morning.

The seashore, Liverpool River tidal flats, Haularound and Entrance Islands, and tidal exposed reef yielded 57 species. Migrating waders and terns made up the bulk of sightings.

Other species (39) were recorded about the Arnhem Land Barramundi Nature Lodge, Ankabadbirda billabong ( Cadell River) woodlands, swamps, and billabongs.