Today at the Cygnet Coastal Reserve (50klm from Hobart Tasmania) - this young one, a bit smaller than an adult Silver Gull. There were 2, this is the largest. Unable to get to close, they would take flight!
Grebe???
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I'm only new to birding but i would say a Hoary-headed Grebe? I'm sure others will tell you for sure.
Shorty......Canon gear
Canberra
http://www.flickr.com/photos/rawshorty/
yes, a Hoary-headed Grebe
and actually they would dive rather than take flight but the ones that I have seen do not seem to dive as quickly as Australasian Grebe
Peter
Thanks guys, these did actually take flight, was crossing a small bridge as they were passing under it, they flew about 5 or 10 metres, and then settled again, got as close as i could before they became aware of my presence.
Another new species for me (2 new birds today counting Eurasion Coot), having trouble posting multiple photos to 1 thread, so i will post some later.
Dale Huonville, Tasmania
I'll add that it's not a 'young one'. It has partial adult breeding plumage, i.e. the hoary streaking on the head.
Thanks for that., I was looking at the soft downy looking rump, but 1st to admit I am very much a beginner, and always happy to learn.
Dale Huonville, Tasmania
Hi Dale, here is one of the other two Grebe, the Australasian Grebe, and one with a Baby. There is also the Great Crested Grebe, I just have to find a photo. Some people think Grebe are small ducks, but they are quite different.They have short wings and long, individually webbed toes on feet that are set far back.
M-L
Great shots M-L.
Dale, note these adults have got soft downy looking rumps too. I guess that helps keep them warm in the cold Tassie water.
M-L
As usual superb M-L, thanks. Nice to see all the Grebes. Finishes off a top day for me - probably seen before (I got into birds) the Hoary Headed Grebe, Eurasion Coots and the Eastern Great Egret, But 1st time with any real interest.
Dale Huonville, Tasmania
Dale, your comment "probably seen before (I got into birds)" made me wonder what birds I was seeing before I became a keen bird watcher. I can remember black birds calling at Prospect in Adelaide as a kid & I can remember what were called sparrow hawks (Australian kestrels) when on holidays at Burra SA. Maybe large flocks of starlings. But that's about it. I can't even remember New Holland honeyeaters from my bush walks with mates as a teenager. I must have lacked observation &/or curiosity.