Whistling Kites are quite common around the bay. However, I usually see them soaring overhead and have learnt the shape of their silhouette and listen for their distinctive whistling cry. I have only once – in five years - seen one perching close in a tree and that time I was too slow to get photos.
The other morning on a walk down at the Mullen's Picnic area I was in the right place at the right time. A Kite flew down onto the branch of a tree and sat for just long enough for me to get a couple of photos. Slater's Field Guide describes them as “dingy-looking” but this one is definitely not. Certainly flying overhead they do not show the distinctive markings and colorings of some of the other raptors but up close like this and with the morning sun shining on it the colors are beautiful.
Lucky you! Quite a rarity down here.
ReplyDeleteHi Mick
ReplyDeleteYes, lovely colours. Early morning light effects, possibly, but that's fine. It is just how they are seen to the best advantage.
I like their acrobatic ability on the wing.
Cheers.
Denis
What a gorgeous bird in the perfect light. You were definitely on the right place at the right time--this time!
ReplyDeleteMick, you got a couple of beauties there, Lucky you.
ReplyDeleteThanks to all for your comments. The one 'problem' is that the shorebirds definitely distrust their intentions and they all take off when one flies overhead. The books do say they will snatch smaller birds when possible.
ReplyDeleteNothing wrong with the Whistling Kite Mick, a handsome bird, just look at the colour in your pix.
ReplyDeleteThanks Duncan. Yes I think its handsome!
ReplyDeleteHi Mick. I'm a bit surprised the shore birds pay much attention to the Whistlings, which - like most kites - are weak-footed wusses among raptors and usually go for no birds other than nestlings.
ReplyDeleteHi Tony, I don't think the shorebirds wait to see what kind of raptor it is. As soon as they see a shadow overhead they are off. And it usually happens just when you are half way through counting a flock of hundreds and you then hope they will settle close by and let you start again.
ReplyDeleteHi Mick,
ReplyDeleteYour kite is such a beautiful copper. Lovely. Also enjoyed the comments...especially your observation that shorebirds don't likely wait to see what kind of hawk has arrived. Enjoyed
Hi Vickie thanks for visiting and commenting. Observations have also shown shorebirds taking flight because of the shadows of kites passing overhead from kite surfers.
ReplyDelete