14 November 2013

Copeton Dam State Recreational Park, Bingara, N.S.W.


This was a lovely respite for the eyes and soul, to see such an expanse of water after a few days of bushland treks, birding, in and around Bingara, N.S.W.  Copeton dam is approximately 52 klms travel away.


but it was this far from home







                               

Blue-faced Honeyeater was seen during a lunch stop at one of the designated sheltered picnic areas



OH ... careful; watch for the  Red-Capped Plover's egg.

 Wouldn't have known it was there only for a camper had mentioned to our birding group that he had watched the Plover sitting there...


so well camouflaged and fading into its surrounds; you have to wonder what the odds are in such a barren landscape and with no padding around the edges


Noisy Miner

18 comments:

Phil Slade said...

That certainly looks like a heck of an interesting place to bird Carole. The Honeyeater looks superb. Like you I have misgivings about plover species laying eggs in the open like that and simply relying on camouflage to hide the eggs.

Elizabeth Edwards said...

huge climbing rocks. that birdie looks like he has a black (or blue) eye ... ouch, but more funny!! ( :

Our photos said...

Beautiful bird and egg photo.
Greetings from Holland, RW & SK

Irma said...

Beautiful pictures Carole.
The egg has a beautiful camouflage.
The last picture is really great.
Greetings Irma

TexWisGirl said...

plovers are such terrible nesters! they just pick a scratch in the ground. such pretty birds you showed.

Karen said...

Such beauty in that stark landscape!

John @ Beans and I on the Loose said...

Plovers of some type nest right on the sandy beaches here on the Pacific shores. I would just think over time through natural selection better nesting habits would evolve. I like it when you include maps as to where you travel. Again, wonderful looking birds.

Montanagirl said...

Love that Honey Eater and Noisy Miner - very pretty birds.

Margaret Birding For Pleasure said...

HI Carole Looks a lovely lace, so peaceful and quiet. Marvellous how eggs blend into their surroundings. great shot of the Honeyeater.

Unknown said...

I am amazed that Plovers survive with eggs out in the open for cattle to trample or crows to take! Looks like a great trip!

Bob Bushell said...

The Blue-faced Honeyeater is a winner, wow, does he know it.

David M. Gascoigne, said...

The honeyeater is spectacular.

Roy Norris said...

The Plover's egg is a true meaning of the saying "Hiding in the open' Carole.
I am amazed how they survive, but as long as it is not seen or stepped on by predators then it does somehow.

Sallie (FullTime-Life) said...

Beautiful spot! For birding or just to be! I always think how peculiar it is when birds that can fly nest on the ground ...no matter how well camouflaged .

Anonymous said...

Wow what a beautiful blue faced honeyeater. Nice post Carole.

Wally Jones said...

What a great looking place to explore and bird!

The poor Plover seems to have my construction skills - none!

Beautiful photographs, Carole!

Jan Castle said...

Really had to look to see that egg!!!! Amazing!

Brian King said...

The Honeyeater is another first for me. I'd never heard of it. Love the facial markings! Beautiful scenery as always!