Dalby mystery

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cupladaze
cupladaze's picture
Dalby mystery

This bird was spotted in Dalby (200km west of Brisbane) when I was visiting my mum. You can see it's larger than the sparrows (I felt about 1.5 times) and has the appearance of a young bird. It's bill suggests to me a honeyeater but it has me beat trying to identify it. Can any of you help me out with this one.

http://i268.photobucket.com/albums/jj5/cupladaze/birdbath_2.jpg

cupladaze
cupladaze's picture

I'll try again. Photobucket has changed slightly since I last posted a photo here.

DenisWilson
DenisWilson's picture

Hi Cupladaze.

If you zoom in on the image, several times, you can see that what appears to be the tip of the beak is actually part of a leaf, or something behind the bird's beak.
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So the beak is straight, chisel shaped, not as long and curved as it appears.
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Therefore I guess it is probably a juvenile Starling.
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Do you get flocks of Starlings around Dalby?
Cheers
Denis

cupladaze
cupladaze's picture

I think you're spot on there Denis. I felt there might be something on the tip of the beak also and yes there are starlings there. I did consider a juvenile starling but the guide I referenced showed a darker bird and was inconclusive. Since you're response I've checked other guides and I agree with you. Thanks and well done.

soakes
soakes's picture

Nice work DenisWilson. I would never have guessed a starling. (A bit disappointing actually, for a nice-looking bird...)

- soakes

soakes
Olinda, Victoria, Australia

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