Birds on Bird Island

One morning Shane and I headed out to paddle to Bird Island. We packed some rings in case there were still some chicks that had yet to fledge. The river was exceptionally choppy as we made our way to the island half of Bird Island (the main breeding colony is in fact on a peninsular). There were hopes of some chicks to ring, but we were only able to find an African Oystercatcher chick for which we did not have any rings!

The decision was made and we paddled (and when I say we paddled I mean Shane paddled I passengered) across to the peninsular. Again all the chicks had fledged and it was looking rather bare compared to all the birds that were there a few weeks ago. We did find a Sacred Ibis chick but again we did not have the rings for it! That would have been an awesome new species to ring! And that was probably the last trip for the Green Machine until the breeding season starts again and it is now sitting at home, high and dry.

Nervous parents trying to distract us from the chick's location.

African Oystercatcher chick.

The Kelp Gull chick that Kel and I ringed, all growed up! Mostly..

Do not disturb.. 

Water Thick-knee

Sacred Ibis breeding group.