THE S.A. ORNITHOLOGIST BIRDS OF THE NORTHERN TERRITORY · THE S.A. ORNITHOLOGIST BIRDS OF THE NORTHERN TERRITORY by C. E. RIX* 147' Basically this is the record of the 1967 R.A.O.U

THE S.A. ORNITHOLOGIST

BIRDS OF THE NORTHERN TERRITORYby C. E. RIX*

147'

Basically this is the record of the 1967R.A.O.U. annual "camp-out" which took theform of a bus excursion through theNorthern Territory. However because ofthe meagre available information concerningthe birds of this part of Australia the recordsof two other visits to the Territory by thewriter have been included. Details of thescope of these are given following a generalsummary of the 1967 itinerary.

The R.A.O.U. outing commenced officiallyin Alice Springs on Wednesday, 5th July,1967. Some of us had arrived in AliceSprings on the evening of the precedingFriday and had spent four days combing thenearby areas. Seasonal conditions wereexcellent, birdlife was extremely plentifuland a number of very interesting species hadalready been observed by the time we set offon the northward journey on the morning ofthe 5th.

The first stage was to Tennant Creekwhere we arrived fairly late in the evening.Owing to the distance to be covered, stopsen route had to be kept to a minimum.Similar rules in this regard were also necessary on the following day which took us toOld Mataranka Homestead.

After a brief look around the Homesteadand along the nearby Waterhouse River inthe early morning, we set out on the lastleg of our journey to Darwin where wearrived in the late afternoon of Friday, 7thJuly..

The following six days were spent in andaround Darwin and during this period wecovered either as a party or in groups suchplaces as Fogg Dam at Humpty Doo,Cameron Beach on Shoal Bay Peninsula,Koolpinyah, Casuarina Beach HolmesJungle, Knuckey's Lagoon, Lu~i1la Creek,East Point, the Botanic Gardens and MicaBeach on the western side of Darwin Harbor.

Mica Beach was visited by the party intwo launches on the last day in Darwin.

On July 14th we set off back down theStuart Highway to the Marrakai turn-offand thence out east through Marrakai andJim Jim Crossing to Nourlangie. The journeywas long and particularly over the latterstages fairly slow but every mile took us

deeper into the corner of the Territory leastaffected by the hand of man. Feral waterbuffalo were seen in increasing numbers andbecame a more familiar sight than domesticcattle.

The following three days at Nourlangiewas a most rewarding experience and onewhich will linger in the minds of all membersof the party for many years to come. Froman ornithological point of view the onlydisappointing aspect was the brevity of theperiod spent there. The camp is surroundedby hundreds of square miles of virgincountry which, apart from coastal scrubsand tidal flats, includes most, if not all, theother types of habitat occurring in thenorthern end. They range from monsoonforest to tropical open forest and from riverflats with swamps, lagoons and rivers to therugged sandstone cliffs and ranges of theArnhem Land Plateau.

The bird-life is prodigious not only asregard the number of species occurring butalso in the numbers of many of the species.

During these three days and in the briefperiod from sunrise to about 8 a.m., whenwe left on the fourth morning a total of 132species were recorded.

The last of these was listed only a fewminutes before we departed and there islittle doubt that, if a few extra days couldhave been spent there, further additionswould have been made. Actually we didlittle more than a reconnaissance of the areaas a whole. The first day was spent in thevicinity of the camp with a bus trip of somefive or six miles to Binji Water, a verydelightful tree-lined lagoon with adjacentswamps, in the afternoon, On the secondday we travelled some twenty odd miles eastto the edge of the Arnhem Land escarpmentand on the third day we went some twelvemiles west to north-west to Goose Camp.Owing to the difficulty encountered indriving a 37 foot-long bus along bush tracksthat wound in and out between the treesand across swamps and creeks, the speed oftravel was slow. In consequence even suchshort journeys as we made took several hours

*42 Waymouth Avenue, Glandore, S.A.

148 THE SA ORNITHOLOGIST

and it was not possible to stop on the waywithout seriously curtailing the time whichwe could spend at our destination. Thismeant that in actual fact the birds recordedwere largely those encountered in the immediate vicinity of the camp, at Binji Water,on a small part of the edge of the ArnhemLand escarpment and at Goose Camp. Afew species were recorded en route to theseplaces but generally the scope for observationfrom the bus was very limited, particularlyas in most instances there was another vehiclecarrying some of the camp staff ahead ofus. The purpose of this was to clear fallentimber and in some instances to fell standingtrees so that the bus could negotiate sharpbends in the track.

The dawn of July 18th saw us packingand preparing to leave for Mataranka onthe return journey and soon after 8 a.m, wewere on the road back to Jim Jim Crossing.

Shortly after passing through the latterplace we turned south-westerly along theroad to Goodparla.

On the way we had to cross the SouthAlligator River. This caused some troublebut after all hands had helped by shovellingaway sand and collecting logs and lengths ofbamboo to put under the wheels, we wereon the road again.

It was quite late in the evening when wereached Old Mataranka Homestead but Mr.and Mrs. Richardson made us welcome andwe were soon enjoying a much neededdinner.

The next morning was spent in the vicinityof the Homestead and along the nearbyWaterhouse River, and in the afternoon avisit was made to Warlock Ponds.

On the following day we went north againsome 30 miles to Leach's Lagoon near Maranboy, where, on the way to Darwin wehad, during a brief stop, recorded a largenumber of species. Birds were again verynumerous and a number of interestingspecies were added to the list.

In the afternoon we travelled out alongthe Roper Valley Road as far as Elsey Station and on the return trip made a briefpause at Elsey Creek before returning toIvIataranka for the night.

The next two days were spent in travellingto Tennant Creek and thence to AliceSprings. Due to the distances involved therewas little time for stops en route. In the fewselected places where we did stop for brief

periods, further species were added to thelist and we would have liked to have stoppedmuch more often.

The country was in marvellous heart andit was a splendid opportunity to investigatethe bird-life under such conditions. However it was an opportunity which we wereunable to take and, with our arrival at AliceSprings on the evening of July 22nd, the"camp out" was over. On the followingmorning the party split up and each of uswent his way.

The trip had traversed The Territory fromsouth to north and return, approximatelythrough the centre with a few comparativelyshort lateral traverses into the eastern section near the northern end. The birds seentherefore ranged from those inhabiting thearid interior through those of the areas ofincreasing humidity to those of the tropicalscrubs, forests and swamplands of the north.The seasonal conditions at the time wereoptimal in that the country throughout thenorthern two-thirds was showing the affectsof one of the most extensive wet seasons formany years, and the southern part wasflourishing from rains which had broken aneight year drought. In this regard it wasin complete contrast to the conditions prevailing in July and August 1964, when A.Lendon, F. H. Collison, the late D. A. G.Thomas and the writer made a trip by carover more or less the same general routebut with variations in the lateral traverses.This was following a rather less than average"wet" in the northern end and the southwas still in the grip of the prolonged drought.

G. M. Storr's List of Northern TerritoryBirds (Western Aust. Mus., Special Publication No.4) reveals the very limitedamount of information that is available concerning the birds of this part of Australia.There is obviously a great amount of fieldwork to be done before a true picture ofthe range, status and seasonal movementsof the birds of this area can be obtained.

For this reason in giving the details ofthe species recorded during the camp-out Ihave given also the observations of the 1964excursion. In addition I have included therecords of eight days spent at Alice Springsbetween 23rd and 30th June, 1968. Seasonalconditions in the area on that occasion werephenomenonally good. Rain had fallenduring each month for the previous 10 or11 months and it rained at some time on

THE S.A. ORNITHOLOGIST 149

most days during our VISIt. The wholecountryside was covered with lush greenherbage and the bird-life was extremelynumerous.

The combined lists include a little over80% of the species reliably recorded asoccurring in "The Territory" (excludingthe vagrant species) and some of our observations have added significantly to thepreviously known range of several species.In addition to the great difference in theseasonal conditions prevailing in the twoyears concerned, the comparison of therecords for the two Darwin trips demonstrates the effect of the incidence of theflowering of the Woolly-butt (Eucalyptusminiata). This eucalypt dominates much ofthe forest country north of Larrimah andin 1964 it was flowering in great profusionin practically all the areas visited in the"Top End." As a result, very large concentrations of honeyeaters, lorikeets andother nectar-feeding birds were frequentlyencountered. By contrast in 1967, when onlyscattered individual trees of this speciescarried any flower at all, no significantconcentrations were found other than atLeach's Lagoon where some melaleucas werein flower and at a point between Larrimahand Dunmara where another species ofeucalypt with creamy yellow blossom wasflowering heavily.

The outstanding concentration of birdsencountered in 1967 was at Fogg Damwhere the congregation of waterfowl wasalmost unbelievable.

IZ; parts thousands of birds were packedso tightly together and the species so intermixed, that it was impossible to make anyaccurate estimate of their numbers. It wasalso most difficult to determine just whichspecies were present. A single representativeof a species in that vast assembly, unless itwas of the size of a Brolga, would havebeen undetectable. It was an experiencethat will live long in the memories of allpresent that day.

THE BIRDSThe birds are given in the order set out

in the 1926 checklist with authorized amendments but the numbers on the left-hand sidehave no significance other than to indicatethe total number of species recorded on thethree excursions.

1. EMU (Dromaius nouae-hollandiae)One bird only between Mataranka and

Leach's Lagoon near Maranboy, about 220miles south of Darwin. In 1964 also theonly sighting was a single bird, near DepotCreek between 125 and 130 miles south ofDarwin. This bird was feeding in the company of a wild donkey.

2. SCRUB FOWL (Megapodius freycinet)Three birds in coastal scrub immediately

adjacent to Casuarina Beach; two in similarhabitat adjacent to a mangrove swamp nearMica Beach. No birds were seen at Nourlangie but there was an active mound notfar from the camp and the proprietor statedthe birds were frequently seen in the vicinity.

We were informed that they were residentin the monsoon forest adjoining the TropicusNursery at Nightcliff, but although we spentan hour or so there we did not sight any.However there were ample signs of scratchingin the debris of the forest floor and somerecent footprints in soft mud in a creek-bed.

None of this species was seen in 1964 butan "active" mound was found in some ratherdry monsoon forest a few miles east of Koolpinyah.

3. BROWN QUAIL (Synoicus australis)Observed in twos and in parties of up to

eight north of the Roper Valley turnoff. Theactual sightings were at Mataranka EastPoint (Darwin), on the road to KoolpinyahNourlangie, Leach's Lagoon (Maranboy)and at the junction of the Stuart Highwayand the Roper Valley Road.

A similar pattern of distribution was foundin 1964 with Mataranka as the southernmostsighting.

4·. CHESTNUT-BACKED QUAIL(Turnix castanota)

Recorded on three occasions in 1964 viz.Koolpinyah 20th July; Plumtree Creek 3rdAugust .and ~arlock Ponds 6th August.Only a single bird was seen on each occasion.

5. L.ITTLE QUAIL (Turnix uelo»)EIght were found near the 16 mile bore

north of Alice Springs and some twenty 0;more were seen at the Devil's Marbles onboth the northern journey and on the return.

In 1964 one bird only was recorded,between Dunmara and Larrimah. Thisappears to be well north of its acceptedrange, but it was seen by all four members

150 THE S.A. ORNITHOLOGIST

of the party and we had no doubts as to itsidentity.

Two were sighted about 34 miles north ofAlice Springs in June 1968.

6. ROSE-CROWNED PIGEON(Ptilinopus ewingi)

Recorded at Mica Beach (6), DarwinBotanic Gardens (1) and at Nourlangiewhere it was numerous and could be seenin trees overhanging some of the tents everymorning.

In the 1964 excursion it was seen inHolmes Jungle (1) in mangroves betweenDarwin and Nightcliff (2). Botanic Gardens(2) Koolpinyah (1) and in coastal scrubnear Cameron Beach on the Shoal BayPeninsula where it was fairly numerous.

Due to the difference in the nature of thehabitat this form is much more easily foundthan is the Red-crowned bird of east andnorth-east coasts of Australia, but, in thewriter's experience with both forms, theTerritory bird is much less shy. It is frequently possible to approach to withintwenty feet or so and photograph it withoutit showing much concern.

7. BLACK-BANDED PIGEON(Leucotreroti alligator)

A number of our party had glimpses ofvarying duration of one or two of thesebirds at the Arnhem Land escarpment about20 miles from Nourlangie but only one couldclaim a really good view. This was thedriver of the bus, Graeme Phillips, who,while the remainder of the party werewalking along the escarpment, had wanderedoff in the opposite direction to do a littleinvestigation of his own. When we finallyassembled for lunch he related how he hadsat for about ten minutes within a few feetof three of these pigeons as they fed in anative fig on the side of the escarpment.

The 1964 party spent two days in thePlumtree Creek area near EI Sherana butfailed to locate the species, although othershave seen it there both before and since.

8. TORRES STRAIT PIGEON(Myristiciuora spilorrhoa)

At least two pairs were seen in scrub surrounding a large lagoon at Goose Campabout 12 miles west of Nourlangie. Probablythere were more present as pairs of birdswere seen several times and it was not pos-

sible to determine whether they were thosealready seen or not.

In view of the time of the year, the sightingof this species was somewhat unexpected. Itwould appear possible that some remain inAustralia during the winter months.

9. PEACEFUL DOVE(Geopelia placida)

In 1964 ·this species was encountered atNewcastle Waters Creek and from then itwas recorded every day until we reachedthis creek on the return journey and it wasalso recorded at Lake Woods some 14 milessouth-west of Elliott on the same day.

Within its range this species was generallyplentiful and in many parts it was verynumerous.

The same distribution pattern was revealedby the 1967 excursion. The first sightingwas at the same creek and it appeared inevery daily list until we returned there. Itwas not seen in such large concentrations asin 1964 but this was probably due to thevast areas of residual water from the previousabnormal "wet" which made it less dependent upon the man-made water suppliesoccurring along the route.

10. DIAMOND DOVE (Geopelia cuneata)In 1967 it was numerous around Alice

Springs and from there north to BarrowCreek. It was not recorded again until, ona creek near Goodparla, about 20 milesnorth-east of the Pine Creek-El SheranaRoad, one bird was observed in the companyof a number of Peaceful Doves.

The next place at which it was observedwas at Leach's Lagoon about 25 milessouth of Katherine (about 225 miles southof Darwin) where 3 or 4 birds were seen inthe open forest country bordering the lagoon.At a point 350 miles south of Darwin,between Larrimah and Dunmara, severalmore were seen and between Wauchope andAlice Springs they were present in somenumbers.

In 1964 eight were seen in the vicinity ofAlice Springs and the next sighting was aswe drove into Tennant Creek. From thereon they occurred in small numbers untilbetween Warlock Ponds and Mataranka theywere fairly numerous and flocks of up to 20or more were seen. Further north atCoomalie Creek, between Adelaide Riverand Darwin they were also plentiful. Onebird was seen at Beatrice Hills a few miles


south-west of Humpty Doo and several wereseen on the Marrakai Road and also on thePine Creek-EI Sherana Road. In June 1968it was plentiful in the vicinity of AliceSprings being seen every day of our visit.

11. BAR-SHOULDERED DOVE(Geopelia humeralis)

Generally numerous north of WarlockPonds which was the most southerly placein which it was seen in both 1964 and 1967.

An interesting observation which in theabsence of any concrete evidence to thecontrary must be referred to this species,was that of two or more birds in compositecoastal scrub and monsoon forest adjacentto Casuarina Beach, Darwin in 1967. Thesebirds were closely examined by Hugh Officerand the writer at almost minimum range ofthe 10 x 50 binoculars and were of thegeneral size and conformation of the abovespecies but had very distinct "bronze"patches on the wings, as in the CommonBronzewing, and also had the face markingsof the latter species.

There were also normal Bar-shoulderedDoves in the vicinity which showed no traceof these characters.

12. GREEN-WINGED PIGEON(Chaleophaps ehrysoehlora)

Recorded in coastal scrubs and monsoonforest in ones and twos around Darwinincluding East Point, Mica Beach, CasuarinaBeach, Tropicus Nursery and Holmes Jungle.Also at Fogg Dam, Shoal Bay Peninsulaand at and in the vicinity of Nourlangie.Similar range and status was indicated bythe 1964 sightings.

13. COMMON BRONZEWING(Phaps ehaleoptera)

In 1964 the only sightings were in theWarlock Ponds-Elsey-Mataranka area wherethey were fairly plentiful. In 1967 howeverone bird was seen at the 16 mile bore northof Alice Springs, one was found dead onthe road at Barrow Creek, two were seenbetween the Devil's Marbles and TennantCreek, at Banka Banka (600 miles southDarwin) and several in the vicinity of Warlock Ponds.

In 1968 it was sighted at Ross River (1),near Standley Chasm (4) and near PineGap (2).

14. CHESTNUT-QUILLED ROCKPIGEON (Petrophassa rufipennis)

Common along the Arnhem Land escarpment about 20 miles east of Nourlangiewhere, on about a half-mile stretch of theescarpment, probably up to 50 birds werepresent.

The writer spent a most fascinating houror so watching a party of about sixteen ofthese birds on a rough sandstone range inthe Plumtree Creek area near EI Sherana in1964 as they moved about the tumbledmasses of rock that were exposed on theside of the ridge. When standing still ona rock this species has a habit of droppingits wings until the primary edge is actuallyor almost touching the rock on which it isstanding. (See photo. Fig. 2.)

Despite this it is only on very rare occasions that the chestnut patch on the quillscan be seen on standing birds. While inflight the chestnut is most noticeable andunder some conditions, as a bird flashes by,it is the only part that one really sees. Whennot in flight the plumage of this bird is auniform dark grey-brown, with. small whitishspeckles or flecks which blend perfectly withmany of the rocks, conglomerates andbreccias, which it inhabits.

During the period from approaching noonto about mid-afternoon in the non-breedingseason these pigeons tend to gather in parties'of up to 20 or more about half way up theescarpment ranges in which they occur andthere they preen and doze with occasionalperiods of activity during which they "playtag" by chasing one another along the ledgesand through cracks and crevices. In themorning and in the latter part of the afternoon they appear to do most of their feedingalong the foot of the ranges or escarpmentand when disturbed almost invariably fly tohigher levels to take refuge among the rocks.However if they are not pursued and onesits quietly they soon return to their feedinggrounds unless it was nearing midday whenthey were disturbed.

15. PARTRIDGE PIGEON(Geophaps smithii)

This species was seen in parties of up to20 birds on several occasions in open forestcountry in the vicinity of Noorlangie and atJim Jim Crossing. In August 1964 a largeflock containing from 50 to 60 birds was


observed in similar habitat in the PlumtreeCreek area near the South Alligator River.

When first seen these birds are almostinvariably on the ground but when flushedwill frequently perch on the branches oftrees as high as twenty to thirty feet fromthe ground. On several occasions both in1967 and in 1964 it was noticed, whileobserving birds perched in trees and occasionally on the ground, that they erect thefeathers on the crown to give the impressionof a crest. This characteristic was revealedonly when the birds had alighted after havingbeen flushed and was not observed on birdswhich had not been disturbed and werefeeding on the ground. It appears likelytherefore that it is an anxiety reactionalthough it is possible that it could be usedin the sexual display routine.

The general russet-brown tonings of theplumage provide a highly efficient camouflage for the birds when feeding which isnot reduced by the bright red patch of skinaround the eye and the distinctive white"shoulders." These latter features are mostnoticeable once a bird has drawn attentionto itself by moving but otherwise do notmake the bird conspicuous.

16. PLUMED PIGEON{Lophophaps plumifera)

Was seen in parties of up to 50 atvarious places in and around Alice Springsincluding The Common, the trucking yardsand on Charles Creek. It was also encountered between Alice Springs and Aileron, atBarrow Creek, and Churchill's Head(between Tennant Creek and Banka Banka)and between Banka Banka and RennerSprings.

In 1964 the only sightings were two birdson the side of the Stuart Highway about 9miles south of Renner Springs and five inthe horse paddock alongside the RennerSprings Hotel. The greatly improved seasonal conditions in 1967 had apparentlybrought about a marked increase in thenumbers of this species.

It was very numerous everywhere aroundAlice Springs in June 1968. On one occasion a flock of 42 was seen drinking fromthe tiny drops of rain on the bitumen roadabout 12 miles north of Alice Springs aftera very brief shower.

17. CRESTED PIGEON(Ocyphaps lophotes}

This bird was recorded in and aroundAlice Springs in ones, twos and threes andfrom there to a few miles north of Mataranka and Elsey Station. Generally it wasmore plentiful in the Mataranka-ElseyWarlock Ponds area, than in other parts butnowhere did we find it in great numbers.

A similar pattern was revealed by the1964 records except that it was not seenaround Alice Springs and Aileron was thesouthernmost recording. The Matarankaheld the most birds at that time also.

It was very plentiful around Alice Springsin June, 1968.

18. BANDED LANDRAIL(Hypotaenidia philippensis)

Two birds were seen on the swampyground below the embankment at FoggDam, Humpty Doo. A party of membersof the Adelaide Ornithologists Club saw twobirds in the same place some four or fiveweeks later.

19. LITTLE GREBE(Podiceps ruficollis)

Recorded in pairs and small parties atDunmara, Leach's Lagoon, Fogg Dam,Knuckey's Lagoon and Koolpinyah, In1964 the only sightings were at Knuckey'sLagoon and in the vicinity of Fogg Dam.In June 1968 two were seen at the AliceSprings sewage treatment works and threeon a lagoon 42 miles north on the StuartHighway.

20. HOARY·HEADED GREBE(Podiceps poliocephalus)

Eight to ten birds on a water-filled borrowpit about 42 miles north of Alice Springs.Not observed in 1964 but in 1968 two wereseen at the borrow pit and two at the sewageworks.

21. LITTLE BLACK CORMORANT(Phalacrocorax sulcirostris)

Several hundred were seen along the banksof the outlet channel at Fogg Dam in thecompany of hundreds of P. melanoleucos anda mixed assembly of egrets, spoonbills, ibis,etc., numbering several thousand. Two orthree birds at Warlock Ponds were the onlyother sightings.

In 1964 there were several at BeatriceCreek, about half a dozen on the KoolpinyahLagoon, and three on Elsey Lagoon. '

THE SA ORNITHOLOGIST 153

[22. PIED CORMORANT(Phalacrocorax varius)

None of this species was seen in 1967.In 1964 we recorded two individuals on

the Waterhouse River at Mataranka as beingthis species. Owing to the dense nature ofthe vegetation along this river we wereunable to obtain good sightings of them andin the light of our failure to find this speciesin any other parts visited on that trip or in1967 we now feel that the two seen wereprobably referable to the following species.]

23. LITTLE PIED CORMORANT(Phalacrocorax melanoleucos)

Many hundred along the banks of theoutlet channel at Fogg Dam in the companyof a mixed assembly of several thousandegrets, ibis, spoonbills, etc. The species wasalso recorded at Dunmara (1), Leach'sLagoon (5 or 6), Knuckey's Lagoon (1),Koolpinyah (1) Nourlangie (several), on acreek 20 miles north of Goodparla (1) andat Warlock Ponds.

The 1964 records included the Waterhouse River (2 or 3) and generally showeda similar pattern as regard range. Howeverthere was no large concentration as thatoccurring in 1967 at Fogg Dam. On thatoccasion there were less than a dozen birdsthere.

24. DARTER (Anhinga novae-hollandiae)Fairly numerous at Fogg Dam and on

lagoons and creeks in the Nourlangie area.Also seen at Dunmara (1), Knuckey'sLagoon (2), Koolpinyah (several) and Warlock Ponds (4-5). In 1964 one bird (female)was recorded at Newcastle Waters and another (male) at Elsey Lagoon as well as atmost of the above-mentioned places.

25. BROWN GANNET (Sula leucogaster)On two occasions in 1964 when we visited

East Point, Darwin, some of this species werefound perching on the cable stretchedbetween pylons extending out into theharbor (an old anti-submarine installationfrom World War II). On the first occasionthere were thirty or more and on the secondthere were about a dozen.

26. PELICAN (Pelecanus conspicillatus)Recorded at Newcastle Waters Creek (5),

Fogg Dam (2), Nourlangie (7), Goose Camp(7), Old Mataranka (6) and Warlock Ponds(1). In 1964 the only sightings were Fogg

Dam (1), Cameron Beach (1) and two atthe lagoon at Newcastle Waters. The latterwere reported to be permanent residents.

27. WHITE-WINGED BLACK TERN(Chlidonias leucoptera)

There were a number of this specieshawking over Fogg Dam and the adjacentswamplands, mingling with a somewhatgreater number of C. hybrida. In 1964 thespecies was seen at Knuckey's Lagoon andKoolpinyah (one bird in each case).

This bird has a characteristic whenhawking over water which in the writer'sopinion makes it readily distinguishable fromhybrida, even when in non-breedingplumage. While the latter almost invariablybreaks the surface of the water when it dipsto take its prey and quite frequently plungeswell into the water, the White-wingedspecies does not break the surface. It merelypicks insects off the surface.

The writer first noticed this habit whilewatching a group of White-winged BlackTerns on a swamp near Altona, Vic. withH.E.A. Jarman in April 1965. One or twoof the birds were partially, and one in almostfull, breeding plumage. There was nobreeze, and the water was like glass althoughwe watched them feeding for nearly an hournot once did we see one of them break thesurface.

Since then the writer has watched mixedflocks of White-winged Black and MarshTerns on several occasions in the vicinity ofAdelaide, South Australia as well as in TheTerritory and has not seen anything todiscount this opinion of the difference inbehaviour of the two species.

28. MARSH TERN (Chlidonias hybrida).Fairly numerous at Fogg Dam, and at

Goose Camp. (See notes under precedingspecies concerning differences in habit.)

29. GULL-BILLED TERN(Gelochelidon nilotica)

The only observation was at CameronBeach, where two or three were quarteringthe tidal flats. In 1964 the species was seenat Lee Point and East Point and also atLake Woods, south-west of Elliott (2 birds).

30. CRESTED TERN (Sterna bergii)One bird in Darwin Harbor.


31. BLACK-NAPED TERN(Sterna sumatrana)

Two at Cameron Beach and several inDarwin Harbor while on the boat trip toMica Beach.

32. BRIDLED TERN (Sterna anaetheta)Five or six at Lee Point in July 1964 and

also a number on the anti-submarine cableat East Point were probably of this speciesbut were too far away for positive identification.

33. TURNSTONE (Arenaria interpres)Eight or more on tidal flats at Cameron

Beach, Shoal Bay Peninsula. (1967.)

34. PIED OYSTER-CATCHER(Haematopus ostralegus)

Up to 30 at Cameron Beach, Shoal BayPeninsula. (1967.)

35. SPURWINGED PLOVER(Lobibyx nouae-hollandiae)

Two adult birds with two juveniles at thesewage treatment works at Alice Springs.(1967. )

36. MASKED PLOVER (Lobibyx miles)Recorded at Newcastle Waters Creek,

Dunmara, Fogg Dam, Nourlangie andLeach's Lagoon. Nowhere was it numerousand usually only one or two pairs in anyone locality.

The 1964 records were generally similar asregards numbers but Fogg Dam was thesouthernmost locality at which they wereseen.

37. BANDED PLOVER (Zonifer tricolor)A party of eight or more near the aero

drome at Alice Springs. (1967.)

38. GREY PLOVER(Pluvialis squatarola)

Nine in the company of other waders atCameron Beach).

39. MONGOLIAN SAND-DOTTEREL(Charadrius mongolus)

Up to about 20 scattered over tidal flatsat Cameron Beach, Shoal Bay Peninsula.Many of them still retained the rufous chestband of the breeding plumage.

40. LARGE SAND-DOTTEREL(Charadrius leschenaultii)

From twelve to fifteen at Cameron Beachmingling with other waders. Approximately

similar numbers were seen in the same location in July 1964. The large plover-likeeye is a notable feature of this species.

41. RED-CAPPED DOTTEREL(Charadrius alexandrinus)

Two birds at Casuarina Beach and fromtwenty to thirty mingling with other waderson the extensive mud and sand flats atCameron Beach. They were present insimilar numbers at the latter beach in 1964.

42. BLACK-FRONTED DOTTEREL(Charadrius melanops)

Seen at the Alice Springs sewage works(1), Dunmara (6+), Fogg Darn (1), Warlock Ponds (2) and Elliott (2). In 1964was recorded at Alice Springs (2), FoggDam (20+) and Warlock Ponds (2). In1968 there were about ten around the AliceSprings sewage works and 5 at Glen Helen.

43. AUSTRALIAN DOTTEREL(Peltohyas australis)

Recorded by two members of the party(Misses D. Stenhouse and M. Talbot) inthe country west of Alice Springs a few daysafter the trip had ended.

44. WHITE-HEADED STILT(Himantopus leucocephalus)

An immature bird at the Alice Springssewage works, two flocks of from 20 to 30each at Fogg Dam, (as well as several pairsand odd birds), up to ten at Knuckey'sLagoon and a large concentration of about150 at Goose Camp.

In 1964 the only records were of a familyparty, 2 adults and 2 juveniles on a lagoonnorth of Fogg Darn and three birds at LakeWoods, south-west of Elliott. There was aparty of nine at the Alice Springs sewageworks in 1968.

45. EASTERN CURLEW(Numenius madagascariensis)

Two birds at Casuarina Beach and twoat Cameron Beach. Ludmilla Creek (3)and Cameron Beach .(3) were the sightingsin 1964.

46. WHIMBREL (Numenius phaeopus)Four at Ludmilla Creek and one at

Cameron Beach. In 1964 there were up toten at each of these places and two andthree at Lee Point and Dinah Beach respectively.


47. LITTLE WHIMBREL(Mesoscolopax minutus)

Two seen at Casuarina Beach and one atCameron Beach. In 1964 two were recordedfrom the latter area.

48. BLACK-TAILED GODWIT(Limosa limosa)

A party of seven at Goose Camp.

49. BAR-TAILED GODWIT(Limosa lapponica),

About twenty at Cameron Beach and asimilar number at Goose Camp. The onlyobservation in 1964 was at Cameron Beachwhere there were from fifteen to twentybirds.

50. WOOD SANDPIPER (Tringa glareola)Four birds on the margin of a large open

lagoon at Goose Camp.

51. COMMON SANDPIPER(Tringa hypoleuca)

One bird, possibly two, in tidal creek atCameron "Beach.

52. GREENSHANK (Tringa nebularia)Several of this species were heard calling

at Ludmilla Creek but due to the densityof the mangroves they could not be seen.Three or four were seen at Cameron Beach,and there were a number of them at GooseCamp scattered over a large, shallow lagoonwhich, for the most part had little or noaquatic vegetation.

53. MARSH SANDPIPER(Tringa stagnatilis)

Three birds feeding on the margin of thelarge shallow lagoon at Goose Camp. Thefirst of these called several times in quicksuccession as it flushed and continued givingoccasional calls until it was out of earshot.The other two which were feeding together,flew off without giving any call. They hadbeen under observation for several minutesand their flight was not due to any disturbance caused by the writer but, apparently,because they had finished feeding in thatparticular part of the lagoon.

54. TEREK SANDPIPER(Terekia cinerea)

A flock of between 50 and 60 of thisspecies was present at Cameron Beach onthe wide expanse of mud and sand exposedby the retreating tide. At times they were

scattered over a considerable area but atothers they took wing and moved as acompact flock for a few minutes beforesettling again and dispersing over the flatsto continue feeding. Two of these birdswere seen in the same locality in 1964.

The appearance and habits when feedingare quite fascinating. Apparently they havethe ability of sighting small crustaceans orinsects at some distance for suddenly theywill start running at an astonishing speedfor such a small bird. The bright orangeyellow legs, which are a diagnostic feature,move so rapidly that they become little morethan a blur while the remainder of the bodyincluding the head is held perfectly rigid. Atdistances of more than a chain or so theygive the impression of floating over the sandwithout having any direct connection therewith. The running usually ends abruptlywith the upturned bill suddenly jabbing downto seize the food.

At times distances of from two to threechains are covered in this manner withoutany appreciable diminution in speed andfrequently without any deviation in direction.When an alteration in direction does occurit is usually towards the end of the run,when the bird may zig-zag apparently inpursuit of its prey.

55. LITTLE STINT (Erolia ruficollis)Several at Cameron Beach and a flock of

forty or more at Goose Camp. In 1964 twobirds only were seen at Cameron Beach.

56. SHARP-TAILED SANDPIPER(Erolia acuminata)

A flock of about 25 was observed on thelarge shallow lagoon at Goose Camp. Severalbirds seen at long range at Cameron Beachwere also considered to be of this species.

57. KNOT (Calidris canutus)A group of eleven ac Cameron Beach

feeding on the extensive sand and mud flats.In 1964 a flock of eighteen was seen at thesame place.

58. LOTUS BIRD(Irediparra gallinacea)

Present in large numbers at Fogg Damand also seen in most of the larger lagoonswhioh had reasonably extensive growths ofwater lilies such as at Knuckey's Lagoon,Goose Camp and Koolpinyah. The records


of the 1964 excursion reveal a similar patternof distribution.

59. AUSTRALIAN PRATINCOLE(Stiltia isabella)

The only record of this bird in 1967 wasthat of about a dozen around the large,shallow lagoon at Goose Camp near Nourlangie. This was in complete contrast to itsoccurrence in 1964 when more than fiftywere seen around Knuckey's Lagoon whileOIl the Adelaide River Plains, around FoggDam at Humpty Doo and in the vicinity ofBeatrice Hills they were present in very largenumbers, probably amounting to thousands.They were also seen on that occasion atKoolpinyah and on the Darwin Golf Course.

60. SOUTHERN STONE CURLEW(Burhinus magnirostris)

Two were seen at the Howard RiverCrossing on the road to Koolpinyah andtwo in mangroves near Mica Beach. Afurther two were seen at Nourlangie, wherecalls were heard in the evening and justbefore dawn on two or three occasions.

Not recorded in 1964.

61. BEACH STONE CURLEW(Orthorhamphus magnirostris)

Two were sighted on the beach near themouth of a tidal creek at Cameron Beach.They were very wary and flew off to thefar side of Shoal Bay almost as soon as theywere first noticed.

62. AUSTRALIAN BUSTARD(Eupodotis australis)

On two occasions while travelling betweenBarrow Creek and Wauchope single birdswere flushed from the side of the road andbetween the Devil's Marbles and TennantCreek two were observed together within afew yards of the road.

The same number of birds were recordedin 1964 when two large specimens were seennear Elsey Station, another large one wasobserved near Mataranka and, betweenBanka Banka and Tennant Creek, a halfgrown bird resisted all our attempts to makeit flyaway out of gunshot range from themain road. Although, after photographingit at very close range, we chased it severaltimes it refused to fly more than a few yardsand each time circled around to alight againon or close to the edge of -the bitumen.

63. BROLGA (Grus rubicundus)This species was observed generally in

twos and threes at Fogg Dam, in the vicinityof Nourlangie, along the road between thelatter and Pine Creek, at Mataranka, Leach'sLagoon, Warlock Ponds and at Elliot. Inall, only 27 birds were sighted and themaximum in anyone place was five.

This was in contrast to 1964 when severalhundred were in the vicinity of Fogg Damand there was a flock of about one hundredon the swamp adjacent to Holmes Jungle.The other sightings, ranging from two tofour, were at Warlock Ponds, Koolpinyah,Elsey Lagoon, Newcastle Waters (3), LakeWoods (3) and Banka Banka (4).

64. GLOSSY IBIS (Plegadis falcinellus)There was at least one flock of sixty or

more at Fogg Dam. Two smaller flockstotalling about sixty birds were seen laterbut may have been the original flock splitup. Also observed at Goose Camp wherethere was a flock of about fifty. In 1964two or three were seen at the Holmes Jungleswamp and seventeen on Fogg Dam.

65. WHITE IBIS (Threskiornis molucca)Generally in small numbers scattered

around lagoons and swamps from NewcastleVV aters Creek north. They were mostnumerous at Fogg Dam where ·there wereprobably two hundred or more and in. theNourlangie area where they were scatteredin twos and threes but the sightings weremuch more frequent than in other areas.

The situation was much the same in 1964when, however, they were confined to thearea in the immediate vicinity of Darwin.T-he most southerly record was fromKnuckey's Lagoon and the greatest concentration was that of about 30 at the HolmesJungle Swamp.

66. STRAW-NECKED IBIS(Threskiornis spinicollis)

First seen at Newcastle Waters Creek (1)and there were several at both Dunmaraand Leach's Lagoon. At a dam some 5 or6 miles north of Katherine, there was acompact assembly of up to 1000 birds. Fromthis point on the species was seen in smallnumbers throughout the Darwin area.However, except at Fogg Dam where therewere several hundred scattered around themargins and over the adjoining swampyplains and in the Nourlangie area where it


was fairly numerous, it was generally muchless in evidence than it was in 1964.

On that occasion they were very numerousin the vicinity of Darwin. There were from200 to 300 around Knuckey's Lagoon andeven greater numbers at Fogg Dam. Theswamp at Holmes Jungle had a flock of fiftyor so and we encountered it in small partiesin practically every damp place along almostevery road traversed. Our appreciation ofthis attractive bird sustained a severe setback however when on one occasion wevisited a piggery near Darwin. It was aparticularly filthy piggery with large piles ofstinking bones lying in a quagmire of slimeand mud through which some two or threehundred of these birds were delving andsquabbling over noisome morsels. The birdsthemselves were covered with the filth andgrime, as were the large numbers of MagpieLarks which were sharing the "repast." Ittook the sight of large numbers of each ofthese species in their normal natural surroundings and in their usually immaculateplumage to expunge the mental picture wecarried away from this scene.

67. ROYAL SPOONBILL (Platalea regia)One adult was observed feeding an imma

ture bird at Newcastle Waters Creek whileon the return trip, otherwise all the recordings were confined to the northern end.There was a flock of at least forty in thevast gathering of birds along the outletchannel at Fogg Dam. The swamp atHolmes Jungle had a party of twenty odd (ithad about the same number in 1964) andseveral small parties were seen in the Nourlangie area. Also observed at Fogg Dam(6), on a lagoon near Knuckey's Lagoon(16), Marrakai (2) and Lake Woods southwest of Elliot (1) in 1964.

68. YELLOW-BILLED SPOONBILL(Platalea flavipes)

This species was not recorded either onthe 1967 trip or in 1964. However, threeor four were seen and photographed at thesewage treatment works at Alice Springsearly in September 1967 and were reportedby three members of the Adelaide Ornithologists Club who covered a similar route,excluding Nourlangie, to that taken by theR.A.O.U. party. They did not record itfrom any other locality. There were fourbirds at the Alice Springs sewage treatmentponds in June 1968.

It would therefore appear that this speciesis rare in the portions of the Territory covered by 'these excursions at least during the"dry" period. It may be that the populationincreases during .the "wet" but one wouldhave thought that, with the vast expansesof water still remaining during July andAugust this year, some of these birds wouldhave been seen in the northern half of theTerritory if the status of 'the species is morethan that of an accidental visitor to theseparts.

69. JABIRU (Xenorhynchus asiaticus)Fourteen of these stately birds were pre

sent at Fogg Dam on the day of our visit,loosely grouped on the swampy plain belowthe embankment; in addition there were thebodies of five birds lying on or adjacent tothe embankment. All had been killed withinthe previous few weeks by striking a powerline which extends across the embankment.One had apparently died only an hour or sobefore we arrived. Lt was' in perfect condition and Dr. J. M. Bonnin prepared askin. On the basis of the live birds presentthe dead birds represent a mortality rate of25% over a period which if continued couldeasily wipe out the whole population.

Also recorded at Oameron Beach (3)Holmes Jungle (5), Howard Springs Road(2) Koolpinyah (1) Goose Camp (1) JimJim Crossing (1) and Leach's Lagoon (2).

In 1964 Fogg Dam had only one bird, animmature, while others were seen eithersingly or in pairs at Beatrice Lagoon, Koolpinyah, Cameron Beach and Marrakai. Inall nine birds were seen on that occasioncompared with 29 in 1967 (excluding thefive dead birds.)

70. GREAT-BILLED HERON(Ardea sumatrana)

Not sighted in 1967, although the bulllike calls of the species were heard atCameron Beach and at the WaterhouseRiver, Mataranka (twice).

In 1964 three birds were seen roostingin tall trees along the Waterhouse Rivernear its junction with the Roper. They werevery wary and flew each time we attemptedto get close enough to photograph them.

71. LITTLE EGRET (Egretta garzetta)The first record of this species was at

East Point where a single bird was perchedon the old submarine cable with seven Reef


Herons, one white phase and six grey. Thetwo white birds, as they sat quietly at closerange, afforded an unusual opportunity for

.comparison. Both adopted a "hunched"attitude with their heads tucked backbetween their shoulders so that in shape andsize there was little to distinguish them.The dark grey to black legs and bill of theLittle Egret however made it readily distinguishable from the Reef Heron with itsgreenish yellow bill and legs.

Little Egrets were in large numbers atFogg Dam, among the vast mass of birdsalong the outlet channel and on the adjacentswampy area. Just how many, it was impossible to estimate. There were probably notless than a thousand but there could havebeen double this number. Also seen' atCameron Beach, Holmes Jungle swamp andin the Nourlangie area where it was particularly plentiful at Goose Camp.

In 1964 it was seen on only a few occasions. Single birds were seen at Lee Pointand Knuckey's Lagoon, while there wereonly one or two at Fogg Dam. The greaternumber were seen at Dinah Beach (aroundthe comer from Darwin Harbor) wherethere were ten or twelve scattered over thetidal flats.

This species appears to have a greaterpreference for tidal areas than other members of the genus. E. alba does occur in suchlocations but generally to a lesser degree,while (E. intermedia) rarely, if ever, is foundthere.

72. PLUMED EGRET (Egretta intermedia)Like the previous species, this bird was

present in great numbers at Fogg Dam (possibly in the vicinity of 2,000). Also observedsingly or in twos and threes at Knuckey'sLagoon, Holmes Jungle swamp and Koolpinyah. It was fairly numerous in the Nourlangie area, particularly at Goose Camp.

Was fairly numerous at Fogg Dam in 1964and was also seen at Knuckey's Lagoon,Halmes Jungle swamp and Koolpinyah.

73. WHITE EGRET (Egretta alba)Seen on most of the lagoons and swamps

visited north of Newcastle Waters Creek,where there was one bird on both the outward and return journeys. It was also seenon the tidal flats at Cameron Beach.

Apart from Fogg Dam where there wereprobably at least a thousand or more and at

Goose Camp where there were severalhundred, it usually occurred either singly orin twos and threes.

A generally similar distribution is revealedby the 1964 records except that the southernmost sightings were at Warlock Ponds andElsey Station and there were no big concentrations such as were seen at Fogg Damand Goose Camp in 1967. The only partwhere more than two or three birds wereseen was on a dam near Fogg Dam wherethere were some thirty or more.

[74. CATTLE EGRET (Ardeola ibis)No definite identification was made of this

species. The only possible sighting was atGoose Camp, where a number of egrets wereseen feeding and flying around a herd ofbuffalo on an open expanse of dry floodplain. However the herd was at least halfa-mile distant and there was a considerableamount of ground haze and dust. In consequence it was not possible even with binoculars to determine the species.]

75. WHITE-FACED HERON(A'rdea novae-hollandiae)

Observed, generally singly or in pairs, atElsey Creek, Leach's Lagoon, Knuckey'sLagoon, Koolpinyah, Fogg Dam (6) and inthe Nourlangie area (there were five or sixat Goose Camp).

In 1964 the species was seen over practically the same range except that on thereturn journey one bird was present on thelagoon at Newcastle Waters. It is interestingto note that, on that trip, there was nevermore than one bird present at any of thesixteen localities listed. In June 1968 onebird was seen in Alice Springs and one atGlen Helen.

76. WHITE-NECKED HERON(Ardea pacifica)

The first sighting was at Renner Springsand from there north this species was seen,usually singly but occasionally in pairs, atten localities including Nourlangie andGoose Camp (where 'there were 7 or 8).The southernmost observation on the returntrip was at Newcastle Waters Creek.

In 1964 the first recorded was at Newcastle Waters Creek and the last at RennerSprings. Otherwise the numbers seen andthe localities were very similar. One at GlenHelen in June 1968.


77. PIED HERON (Ardea picata)This bird was observed at two localities

only but on each occasion it was in considerable numbers. This was particularly thecase at Fogg Dam where there were in excessof one thousand scattered around the margins of the dam and on the adjacent swampsas well as mingled with the masses of atherbirds congregating along the outlet channel.The species was also numerous at GooseCamp in the Nourlangie area, where it wasdifficult to estimate numbers as they weredistributed over an extensive area. Certainlythere were some hundreds present.

In 1964 the only records were of two birdsat Fogg Dam and one on a lagoon nearKnuckey's Lagoon.

78. REEF HERON (Egretta sacra)One bird (grey phase) was observed at

Casuarina Beach. At East Point, early onemorning, seven (six grey and one white)were perched on the old submarine cablein company with one E. garzetta (see notesunder that species). A couple of days laterthere were 'two (grey) perching on the cable.

Reef Herons were seen at both East Pointand Lee Point in 1964. One white bird wasobserved at East Point. The remainder werethe grey form.

79. NANKEEN NIGHT HERON(Nycticorax caledonicus)

Two adults and two juveniles were observed on Newcastle Waters Greek and singlebirds were seen on a creek between Jim JimCrossing and Goodparla, at the Mary RiverCrossing between Goodparla and Moline andon the Waterhouse River at Mataranka.There were several hundred in both adultand immature plumage at Fogg Dam 'andthe species was numerous in the Nourlangiearea. At Holmes Jungle there was a largecolony in the dense monsoon forest near 'theresidence. Owing to the nature of thevegetation it was not possible to determinethe' actual numbers. Certainly there wereat. least a hundred but there could well havebeen many more than this.

This latter colony was in the same placein 1964 and on that occasion birds werealso seen on the Humpty Doo Road, atManton Dam and at Mataranka (1 adultand 1 immature).

80. MANGROVE HERON(Butorides striata)

One seen at Lee Point in 1964. This birdhad been standing on a small exposed reefsome two or three hundred yards out to seawhen it was disturbed by two Reef Heronswhich alighted on the reef. It flew in to theshore and perched on some mangrovesalmost beside us where we were able toobserve it closely. Another bird was seenat Ludmilla Creek.

81. BLACK BITTERN (Dupetor flavicollis)One was flushed from some rushy growth

on the margin of Koolpinyah Lagoon. Itflew into a low tree growing in the water afew yards from the shore. A single bird wasobserved on the Wa;terhouse River at Mataranka on two or three occasions. A singlebird was seen at Coomalie Creek in 1964.

82. PIED GOOSE (Ansl1'ranas semipalmata)First seen at Fogg Dam, where there were

probably up to 10,000 made up of flocksof from fifty to two or three hundred birdsscattered over the swampy flats below theembankment.

AitKoalpinyah there were several hundredincluding a number of immature birds whichhad not yet reached the flying stage. According to the Herbert brothers, who own thisproperty, it is unusual for these birds to breedon the lagoon, so that it is evident that thevery high rainfall during the previous wetseason had created conditions which hadencouraged breeding. Certainly the lagooncontained a much larger expanse of waterand more prolific growth of aquatic plantsthan it had in 1964.

A few small flocks of up to ten birdswere also seen at, and in the vicinity of,Knuckey's Lagoon. The greatest concentration of this species however, was in theNourlangie area particularly at Goose Camp.At the latter place there were literallyhundreds of thousands of them. There areseveral very extensive lagoons and accordingto 'the proprietor of the Nourlangie SafariCamp, these birds use the area as an overnight camp. During the day they disperse,to some extent, .to feed along the numerousbillabongs and swamps in the surroundingcountry but despite this there was still a vastassembly at the camp.

In 1964 there were several thousand inthe Humpty Doo area including Fogg Damand Beatrice Lagoon and there were about


40 at Koopinyah Small parties of up to 8 or10 were seen also at Knuckey's Lagoon,Berry Springs, Southport and on the Marrakai Road. One bird was found at LeePoint perched in a mangrove on the beach.

83. GREEN PYGMY GOOSE(Nettapus pulchellus)

We encountered this species in pairs or insmall parties at Fogg Dam where there wereprobably a hundred or more in all. On thelagoon at Koolpinyah a flock, approaching300 in number, was alternatively flying backand forth over the water and settling in acompact group in the more open areas ofwater. There were also others in pairs andsmall groups scattered over the remainderof the lagoon. Also recorded at Knuckey'sLagoon (c.20), Warlock Ponds (2) and inthe Nourlangie area, including Goose Camp,where pairs and small par-ties occurred inmost of the suitable locations.

During the 1964 excursion this bird wasobserved at Knuckey's Lagoon (c.70), FoggDam (c.30), Koolpinyah (c.30) near Southport (5) and at Elsey Lagoon where therewere two pairs.

84. WHISTLING TREE-DUCK(Dendrocygna arcuata)

Recorded on few occasions and never inany great numbers. At Knuckey's Lagoonthere were about 150, at Koolpinyah about35 and Warlock Ponds two only were seen.The only other locality was in the Nourlangie area where several small flocks of upto twenty or so birds were observed at GooseCamp and on other waters adjacent to ourcamp.

In 1964 the species was found at only twoplaces viz. Koolpinyah (c.500) and atKnuckey's Lagoon. On the first visit to thelatter place there were about 150 present buton a second visit some five days later thenumber was at least double this figure.

At no time during either journey was theother species, (D. eytoni) seen and while amere ·two periods of such short durationcannot be taken as conclusive evidence, ~t

would appear that the latter is a very rarespecies on the waters adjacent to Darwinduring the dry season.

85. WHITE-HEADED SHELDUCK(1'adorna radjah)

The sightings of this striking duck werelimited to a party of seven at Fogg Dam

and one of twelve at Goose Camp. Theproprietor of the Nourlangie Camp reportedhaving' seen an adult bird with five of sixducklings on a billabong near the camp ofthe day prior to our arrival We laterendeavoured to locate them but failed to doso. _

The only record for 1964 was at FoggDam, where a flock 'of 30 or more birdsallowed us to photograph them from a reasonably close range.

On each occasion when this species wasencountered it was feeding along the extremeedge of rthe water and even when disturbedthe flock flew only a short distance andagain settled in shallow water close to theedge. It does not appear to favor the centreof lagoons, etc., where the deeper wateroccurs.

86. BLACK DUCK (Anas superciliosa)Not seen in any quantity. Sightings were

at Dunmara (20+), Fogg Dam (2),Knuckey's Lagoon (7), a nearby lagoon(12), Goose Camp (3) and Warlock Ponds(8 to 10).

In 1964 the lagoon adjacent to Knuckey'sLagoon had a flock of from 50 to 60 birds;also recorded at Koolpinyah (3), Fogg Dam(2) Knuckey's Lagoon (c.20), Elsey Lagoon(20), Newcastle Waters (1) and Lake Woods(5) ..

87. GREY TEAL (Anas gibberifrons)The only observations were at the sewage

treatment works, Alice Springs (7), at Dunmara (c.12) and rten or twelve at Leach'sLagoon.

The 1964 sightings were, Knuckey'sLagoon (3), Elsey Lagoon (30-40), Newcastle Waters (8), Lake Woods (2) and aflock of 9 which flew across the Stuart Highway ahead of us just south of RennerSprings. It was in flat gibber country andwith the rising sun having just appearedover the horizon, the areas of gibbers on theeastern side of the road gleamed like sheetsof water as the sun's rays were reflected-from->the glazed surface of the individual gibbers.The birds were first noticed as theyapproached from the west flying within afew feet of the ground and almost immediately upon crossing the bitumen, theyalighted on one of the gibber patches. Itwas aotually only then, as we pulled up andtrained our binoculars on them, that we


established their identity. In view of thedroughty conditions prevailing it was unlikely that these birds would find any suitable habitat if they continued in an easterlydirection and unless they found a dam orbore stream, they would most probablyperish.

In 1968 one seen near Simpson Gap andseven 42 miles north of Alice Springs.

88. WHITE-EYED DUCK(Aythya australis)

Several were seen on a swamp near themain road at Dunmara and nine at WarlockPonds. In 1964 a female was observed atElsey Lagoon and a party of five at Newcastle Waters.

89. PINK~EARED DUCK(Malacorhynchus membranaceus)

In June 1968 a dead bird was found onthe road beneath some power lines near theMt. Gillen Hotel, Alice Springs.

90. SPOTTED HARRIER (Circus assimilis)Single birds at Alice Springs, near Aileron,

near Devil's Marbles, Elliott, Dunmara andMataranka, In 1964 two single birds wereseen in the Wauchope-Banka Banka area.

91. SWAMP HARRIER(Circus approximans)

Observed at Dunmara, Fogg Dam (2),Knuckey's Lagoon, Holmes Jungle swamp,Koolpinyah and Leach's Lagoon (2).

In 1964 single birds were seen atKnuckey's Lagoon, Beatrice Lagoon andKoolpinyah. The bird at the latter placestooped several times at a Little Pied Cormorant which escaped each time by diving.One bird 30 miles North of Alice Springs in1968.

92. GREY (WHITE) GOSHAWK(Accipiter nouae-hollandiae)

One white-phase bird was seen betweenAdelaide River and Coomalie Creek.

In 1964 a single bird, also white-phase,was seen several times during one day atPlumtree Creek near EI Sherana. As it flewfrom tree to tree we were struck with thesimilarity in appearance to a White Cockatoo{Kakatoe galerita). There were several ofthe latter in the area and on several occasions it was only when the hawk perchedthat we were certain of its identity.

93. BROWN GOSHAWK(Accipiter fasciatus)

This species was seen at Alice Springs,Barrow Creek, Darwin, Cameron Beach,Ludmilla Creek, Koalpinyah, Marrakai,Nourlangie and Leach's Lagoon. In mostinstances the sightings were in trees alongcreeks and rivers or on the margins oflagoons or swamps.

1964 was very similar. Observationsranged from Barrow Creek to Darwin, including the EI Sherana area and were confined to trees adjacent to water.

Single birds observed near Pine Gap,between Serpentine Gorge and StandleyChasm and near Glen Helen in June, 1968.

94. COLLARED SPARROWHAWK(Accipiter cirrocephalus)

Two were sighted in the Nourlangie area,while single birds were seen at the MaryRiver Crossing on the Pine Creek-EI SheranaRoad and Warlock Ponds.

In 1964 single birds were seen at AliceSprings, on the road to Humpty Doo andat the South Alligator River near EI Sherana.A pair at Glen Helen in June 1968.

95. RED GOSHAWK(Erythrotriorchis radiatus)

One bird at Nourlangie and one at Warlock Ponds.

96. WEDGE-TAILED EAGLE(Aquila audax)

Observed singly and in pairs from AliceSprings north Ij;o Adelaide River and in theNourlangie area. It was not seen in theDarwin area.

In 1964 the northernmost record was atCameron Beach some twenty miles northeast of Darwin. On that occasion there wasa concentration of these birds between AliceSprings and Barrow Creek. At one point agroup of twelve were feeding on the carca:seof a steer at the side of the road and at twoother places parties of seven were similarlyoccupied.

In ones and twos around the AliceSprings area in June 1968.

97. LITTLE EAGLE(Hieraaetus morphnoides]

One bird seen circling high overhead atCoomalie Creek and one 38 miles north ofAlice Springs on 'the return journey.


In 1964 was recorded at Barrow Creek,between there and Wauchope (2 birds), nearHumpty Doo and near EI Sherana.

98. WHITE-BREASTED SEA-EAGLE(Haliaeetus leucogaster)

Recorded at Fogg Dam, Shoal Bay, MicaBeach and Leach's Lagoon as well as in theNourlangie area where several were seen.These latter included two adults and animmature bird at Bingi Water some two orthree miles from 'the camp.

In 1964 the species was observed at FoggDam, Manton Dam, on the Marrakai Road,an immature, and at Newcastle Waters.

99. RED-BACKED SEA-EAGLE(Haliastur indus)

Two at Casuarina Beach and two at Cameron Beach on Shoal Bay were the onlysightings. In 1964 single birds were observedat Ludmilla Creek and over Darwin Harbor.

100. WHISTLING KITE(Haliastur sphenurus)

Observed singly and in pairs at variousplaces on each day during the trip. Howeverit was much less numerous than during the1964 excursion. On that occasion it wasalso seen every day and from Matarankanorth to and including the Darwin area itwas extremely plentiful. Frequently theywere in the company of Fork-tailed Kiteshawking overhead or searching the groundwherever grass was being burnt off by thelocal pastoralists, This burning off is widespread annual practice which is of advantageto the avian predators but must eventuallyprove to be detrimental to the ground andundergrowth frequenting species. Fortunatelymost of these fires, which are lit as soon asthe grasses begin to dry off, are slow burningand only scorch 'the shrubs and the lowerbranches of the trees leaving the canopymore or less intact.

An interesting observation of this speciesoccurred in 1964 at Newcastle Waters whenone swooped upon and caught a LittleCorella from a large flock that was flyingfrom tree to tree. The two birds fell tothe ground where 'they struggled for two orthree minutes with the Corella apparentlybiting at the feet and legs of the hawk.Eventually the Corella escaped and flew offto rejoin the flock looking somewhat bedrag-

gled but otherwise appearing little the worsefor the encounter.

One or more on most days in and aroundAlice Springs in June 1968.

101. FORK-TAILED KITE(Milvus migrans)

As with the preceding species this was recorded every day throughout the 1967 trip.In most instances the sightings were nearhuman habitation or at the scene of burningoff operations. It was fairly numerous fromAlice Springs to about the vicinity of Elliottbut from that point north they were generallysingly or in twos and threes.

The position was completely reversed in1964 when only scattered birds were observed south of Larrimah but from there onthey were in large numbers. At Katherinethere were from four to five hundred circlingand wheeling over the slaughter yards andrubbish dump areas as we passed throughthe town. At a piggery near Darwin, whichhas been referred to in the notes on theStraw-necked Ibis, 'there were severalhundred of them wading through the muckand slush, squabbling and fighting oversmelly bones and offal.

Several near the sewage treatment works,Alice Springs, in June 1968.

102. SQUARE-TAILED KITE(Lophoictinia isura)

One bird at Jim Jim Crossing and twonear the camp at Nourlangie were the onlydefinite observations.

In 1964 one seen on 'the EI Sherana Roadand one at Newcastle Waters. The latterwas flying over the lagoon in company withseveral Fork...tailed Kites and Whistling Kitesand ample opportunity to compare the threespecies occurred. The squareness of the tailwas not a reliable guide to identity but thewhitish patches ("windows") on the underwing was diagnostic.

103. CRESTED HAWK (Baza subcristata)At least one bird was present in the tall

paperbarks and other trees along DeathAdder Creek adjacent to our camp at Nourlangie and was seen on each day during ourstay there. On one morning there werealmost certainly two birds present. The veryrounded wings and the somewhat loosenature of the flight were noticeable features,


104 BLACK-BREASTED BUZZARD(IIamirostra melanosterna)

In all ten of these birds were seen duringthe trip and, with the exception of twobirds observed while on the road to Koolpinyah, they occurred singly. The othersightings were at Nourlangie, near Goodparla, Leach's Lagoon, between Elliott andRenner Springs and between Tennant Creekand the Devil's Marbles.

The 1964 records reveal a similar patternof distribution being between Wauchopeand Tennant Creek, near Katherine, Newcastle Waters, and between Wauchope andBarrow Creek where, at a point about 758miles south of Darwin, two of these birdsrose from ,the roadside as we approached.

105. BLACK-SHOULDERED KITE(Elanus notatus)

Several in the vicinity of Alice Springsand between there and Aileron. One wasseen several times on the Darwin Golf Courseand, on the return journey, an adult andan immature were observed between Tennant Creek and the Devil's Marbles.

The only sighting in 1964 was of an adultfeeding an immature bird on the AdelaideRiver plains near Humpty Doo. Plentifulin and around Alice Springs in June 1968.

106. LETTER-WINGED KITE(Elanus scriptus)

About 15 miles south of Alice Springs on24th June, 1968 two of these birds wereobserved fairly high overhead. They keptup a continual screaming and at timesappeared to come in contact with one an-iother as they swooped and circled. The 'W'markings on the underwing were quitedistinct during the four or five minutes thatthey were in view before they disappearedout of sight to the east. It is probable thatthese birds were engaged on a mating displayflight similar to that adopted by the Blackshouldered Kite (E. notatus).

107. LITTLE FALCON (Falco longipennis)Two were seen along a gum-lined creek

about 10 miles north of Alice Springs andsingle birds were observed at Barrow Creek,Warlock Ponds, Ludmilla Creek (Darwin)and on three or four occasions in the Nourlangie area.

The only sighting in 1964 was at PlumtreeCreek near EI Sherana where one was seentaking a young Crimson Finch from a pan-

danus palm. One at Trephina Gorge and apair, 42 miles north of Alice Springs, seentaking Zebra Finches from Iarge flockswatering at an old borrow pit in June 1968.

108. BLACK FALCON (Falco subniger)One between Pine Creek and Adelaide

River, one on the road to Humpty Doo,one at Nourlangie and one at Holmes Junglewere the only records for the trip. 1964observations were from between Dunmaraand Larrimah, near Humpty Doo, on theMarrakai Road and between Pine Creek andEI Sherana.

Great care is necessary with sight recordsof this species in the 'top end' as most ofthe Brown Hawks, (F. berigora) in theseparts are extremely dark in color and, unlessobserved under optimum conditions, caneasily be mistaken for -the present species.

One bird at Old Telegraph Station, AliceSprings, on 23rd June, 1968.

109. BROWN HAWK (Falco berigora)This species was observed every day during

the trip. In the southern parts, south ofNewcastle Waters Creek, sightings were frequent but in the northern areas they weremuch fewer in number and, as previouslymentioned, these usually had very darkplumage.

In 1964 the distribution pattern was reversed. They were seen every day, but, whilethey were only thinly scattered in thesouthern pants, they were numerous northof Mataranka, Numerous around AliceSprings in June, 1968.

110. KESTREL (Falco cenchroides)Seen in small numbers in the vicinity of

Alice Springs and from there north to Dunmara. Only two were seen north of thereviz. at Casuarina Beach (Darwin), and onthe road to Humpty Doo.

In 1964 they were seen in greater numbersin 'the southern parts but they were thenplentiful in the Darwin area and south toCooma:1ie creek. It would appear that, withthe drought conditions prevailing in thecentre in 1964, there was a concentration ofthis and other Accipitrifonnes in the northernareas but that, with the return of morefavourable conditions inland, they show apreference for the less humid type of habitat.

Very plentiful in Alice Springs area inJune, 1968.


111. OSPREY (Pandion haliaetus)A pair with a nest containing two young

at Casuarina Beach, near Darwin.

112. BOOBOOK OWL(Ninos novae-seelandiae)

Not seen during the 1967 trip but onewas found in mulga scrub between AliceSprings and Aileron in 1964.

113. NORTHERN BOOBOOK OWL(Ninox novae-seelandiae)

Two in a remnant of rain forest at ·EastPoint (Darwin) were seen on three consecutive days. Another pair was found atMica Beach and a single bird was sightedat Nourlangie. In addition the call of thisspecies was heard at night at the latter placeon several occasions.

In 1964 no live birds were seen but a deadone was found hooked by one wing to abarbed wire fence near the Old MatarankaHomestead.

114. WINKING OWL (Ninox connivens)Two were observed in open forest on the

margin of Fogg Dam, two in similar habitatat Knuckey Lagoon and one between Goodparla and Moline. The calls of this specieswere heard on several occasions at night atNourlangie.

115. RED-COLLARED LORIKEET(Trichoglossus rubritorquis)

The southernmost sighting in 1967 and in1964 was in the vicinity of Larrimah.North of there, including the Nourlangiearea, the numbers seen '.in 1967 were significantly less than in 1964. This was probablydue to the fact that Eucalyptus miniata wasnot flowering in July 1967 whereas on theformer occasion this tree, which over largeareas is the dominant of .the open forest,was blooming profusely and was attractinglarge numbers of these birds.

116. VARIED LORIKEET(Psitteuteles versicolor)

A small party was seen as we crossed theKatherine River on the northern journey butno fur-ther sightings were made until, earlyone morning, two single birds flew overheadat Rapid Creek, between Darwin and Nightcliffe. Not seen again until we reachedNourlangie, where parties of from two tofour were seen on several occasions. BetweenMataranka and' Larrimah, on the return trip

four groups of from three to nine birds wererecorded and at a point about 350 milessouth of Darwin, between Larrimah andDunmara, there were some thirty or morefeeding in some heavily flowering eucalypts.

In 1964, except for four birds on theHumpty Doo road, this species was foundonly between Larrimah and Pine Creek andeast to EI Sherana. Within this area theywere encountered fairly frequently andbetween Katherine and Maranboy (195 to200 miles south of Darwin) they were verynumerous.

117. RED-TAILED BLACK COCKATOO(Calyptorhynchus banksii)

This species was observed on several occasions in the vicinity of Alice Springs. Inone instance a flock of about 300 was foundsome ten miles south-east of the aerodrome.We did not encounter it again until wereached Mataranka but from there northto Darwin and east to Nourlangie it wasseen daily in pairs and in flocks of up tofifty or more.

The distribution pattern in 1964 wassimilar in that there were both southern andnorthern populations. On that occasion,however, the gap between the two groupswas some 180 miles narrower, with the birdsbeing found at Newcastle Waters Creek onboth the northward and the return journeys.They were seen daily north of there innumbers similar to 'the daily sightings in1967. Only two parties, however, were seenin the Alice Springs area viz. one of 15and one of 6.

In June 1968 flocks of from 200 to 300were seen on the Deep Well Road south ofAlice Springs, at Ross River and near Bundooma (from the train) as well as manysmall parties (15 to 50) '.in other parts.

118. WHITE COCKATOO(Kakatoe galerita)

The southernmost sighting of this specieswas in the Warlock Ponds-Mataranka areaand from there nor-thward it was seen dailyin small numbers. The largest flock, abouttwenty, was in the Nourlangie area but allother recordings were of one to six birds.The 1964 findings were similar as regardsrange and numbers except that no more thanfour birds were seen on anyone occasion.

A feature of this bird in these areas is itsquietness by comparison with that found in


the southern parts of the continent. Itoccurs almost invariably in the tall treesalong rivers and creeks and, when disturbed,will fly off along the watercourse usuallywithout making any call at all. Occasionally a bird will give vent to a few screechesbut there is none of the raucous clamourwhich usually arises when one approaches aparty of these in the south. Possibly thenorthern birds may behave differently inthe breeding season.

119. PINK COCKATOO(Kakatoe leadbeateri)

One bird was seen from the train about22 miles south of Alice Springs on July 23rd,1967. In June 1968 a party of 6 were recorded on the Koolgera Road 20 miles southof Alice and 4 on the Glen Helen Roadabout 25 miles west of Al:ice Springs.

120. LITTLE CORELLA(Kakatoe sanguinea)

Large flocks were seen at Fogg Dam(400+), Knuckey Lagoon (200-300) and inthe Nourlangie area, where there wereseveral flocks of fifty or more. We also sawsix while on the road to Koolpinyah andone at the Tropicus Nursery near Darwin.

There were from 500 to 600 at Fogg Dam,about 300 at Knuckey Lagoon and a similarnumber at Newcastle Waters in 1964, as wellas sixteen between Banka Banka and Tennant Creek.

121. GALAH {Kakatoe roseicapilla)Very numerous around Alice Springs and

from there north to Elrliott. Beyond therethe numbers diminished until, in the vicinityof Darwin, they were scarce. The onlysightings north of Coomalie Creek were fiveon the Stuart Highway some three or fourmiles north and four on the Humpty Dooroad. None was found in the Nourlangiearea and the first sighting on the returnjourney was at the Mary River Crossingon 'the EI Sherana road as we were approaching Pine Creek.

In 1964 they were numerous from AliceSprings to Mataranka and, while beyondthere the numbers fell considerably, it wasnot to the extent found in 1967. Thenorthernmost records were at Berrimah, inthe vicinity of Knuckey's Lagoon and a fewmiles north of Noonamah.

Very numerous in and around Alice

Springs in June 1968. One flock in gumsalong Todd River east of Pichi Richi contained more than 2000.

122. COCKATIEL(Leptolophus h'ollandicus)

Plentiful around Alice Springs and to apoint about 40 miles north where severalthousand were watering at a large waterfilled borrow pit at the side of the StuartHighway. From then on to Katherine itoccurred singly or in parties of up to six atscattered intervals. None was seen northof Katherine and it was not until we were

. approaching Pine Creek along the EI Sheranaroad on our return journey that we reencountered it.

In 1964 it was not seen south of NewcastleWaters Creek. Between there and PineCreek 1t was found in small numbers butfrom Pine Creek to Adelaide River it wasvery numerous with flocks of twenty or sobeing fairly commonplace and in some partsflocks of forty were not uncommon.

123. RED-WINGED PARROT{Asprosmictus erythropterus)

First sighted between Pine Creek andAdelaide River and from then on it wasobserved in most of the localities visitedaround Darwin and in the Nourlangie area.It occurred in pairs and groups of pairs totalling up to ten or twelve birds. Thesouthernmost sighting was of a pair about340 miles south of Darwin, between Larrimah and Dunmara.

In 1964 the first and the last sightingswere at Warlock Ponds and the range andpopulation was generally similar. Thisspecies has a liking for the orange-floweredDesert Grevillea which is wide-spread in thearea in which the bird occurs and was flowering profusely in both 1964 and 1967.

The bright, almost scarlet, red wing-patchof the male of the Territory birds is quitedistinguishable from the deeper crimson onthe wings of .the north-eastern Queenslandcocks.

124. CRIMSON ROSELLA(Platycercus elegans)

Two adults were observed feeding oneucalypt fruits in Alice Springs on July 23rd,1967. Undoubtedly they had escaped, orhad been liberated, from a local aviary butthey appeared to be well acclimatized andin good condition. That such was the case


was proven in 1968 when both these birdswere seen at and in the vicinity of the MountGillen Hotel on a number of occasionsbetween 22nd and 30th June. Again theywere in good plumage and appeared to bethoroughly at home in the environment.

125. NORTHERN ROSELLA(Platycercus venustus)

Not seen during the 1967 trip. It is ofinterest however that a party from theAdelaide Ornithologists Club, who made asimilar trip about five weeks later, recordedthe species at Coomalie Creek and betweenPine Creek andEI Sherana. In 1964 werecorded a pair between Katherine and PineCreek and several pairs between Pine Creekand EI Sherana.

126. PORT LINCOLN PARROT(Barnardius zonarius)

Fairly numerous along watercourses in thevicinity of Alice Springs. Several were seenbetween there and Aileron and two in thegum creek opposite the hotel at BarrowCreek. These latter were seen on the northward journey and probably the same pair onthe return trip. In addition two were seenbetween Renner Springs and Banka Bankaat a point 567 miles south of Darwin. Thelatter sighting could be one of the mostnortherly records of the species.

The only sightings in 1964 were at AliceSprings where it was reasonably plentiful.In June 1968 was fairly plentiful over mostof the area around Alice Springs from GlenHelen on the west to Ross River on the eastand from Deep Well in the south to about40 miles north on the Stuart Highway. Insome parts it was very numerous.

127. MULGA PARROT (Psephoius varius)Observed on several occasions in twos and

threes in the vicinity of Alice Springs. In1964 the only sightings were a pair and aparty of seven between Alice Springs andAileron.

Fairly numerous around Alice Springs inJune 1968. Most of the sightings were ofpairs with occasionally two or three pairsforming a party.

128. HOODED PARROT(Psephotus dissimilis)

In 1964, despite some fairly assiduoussearching, we had failed to find this speciesand when in 1967 we had reached Mata-

ranka on the return journey without seeingit we were forced to the conclusion that wehad again been unsuccessful. It came as asurprise therefore when, in the late afternoonof our last day at Mataranka, we flushedtwo cocks and a hen from the side of theroad at the junction of the Stuart Highwayand the Roper Bar Road. All three perchedon the Overland Telegraph line and allowedus to obtain good views of them. Both cockbirds were in sub-adult plumage.

Eventually they flew off into the adjacentopen forest country and shortly afterwardswhat was probably a fourth bird (a hen)alighted on the Telegraph line for a minuteor so before taking off in the same directionas the others.

This is probably the most southerly sightingof the species.

1.29. BOURKE PARROT(Neophema bourki)

Several were seen at the 16 mile borenorth of Alice Springs and four or fivebetween Barrow Creek 'and Wauchope.There were also several in the vicinity ofthe Devil's Marbles when' we stopped fora while on the northward journey and onour return.

Not seen during the 1964 trip but in June1968 were very plentiful in most parts aroundAlice Springs. It was observed generally inflocks of 15 or 20 to more than 40 andoccurred among the spinifex and acaciacovered sand dunes on the Deep Well Road,in the mulga scrubs on the Koolgera Pondand along the Stuart Highway to the northof Alice Springs as well as in the acacia andcorkwood covered hills and valley floors botheast and west of the town.

130. BUDGERYGAH(Melopsittacus undulatus)

Very numerous, in small flocks, in thevicinity of Alice Springs and was present invarying numbers from there to Mataranka.Apart from around Alice Springs the greaterconcentration found during the northwardjourney was between Dunmara and Larrimah. On the return journey some threeweeks later, we found them to be most plentiful between Tennant Creek and BarrowCreek. At Tennant Creek we saw manyflocks of from 15 to 30 birds flying over thetown in the early morning. They were allflying into a strong easterly wind.


In 1964 a flock of 7 was seen near Aileronand this was the only sighting south of Tennant Creek. They were numerous from thelatter place to Mataranka and only one ortwo small parties were observed beyond thatpoint.

The species was very numerous aroundAlice Springs in 1968 and flocks of from 20to 40 were a commonplace sight. They werehowever more numerous north and northeast of Alice than in other directions.

131. TAWNY FROGMOUTH(Podargus strigoides)

Two at Fogg Dam and two at Leach'sLagoon were the only sightings in 1967. In1964 single birds were seen on the BerrySprings Road and on the Marrakai Road.

132. OWLET NIGHTJAR(Aegotheles cristata)

One in a hollow limb near the margin ofthe lagoon at Koolpinyah.

133. AZURE KINGFISHER(Alcyone azurea)

One bird along a creek on the road toKoolpinyah, several along Death AdderCreek at Nourlangie and one on the Waterhouse River at Mataranka. In 1964 onebird was seen by the Waterhouse River atMataranka.

134. LITTLE KINGFISHER(Alcyone pusilla)

A single bird was observed early onemorning on Death Adder Creek at Nourlangie, it was watched for several minutesas it perched on a branch overhanging thewater of a lagoon. Several times it divedto the water and twice it succeeded incatching small minnow-size fish.

In 1964 the writer observed a similar perfonnance by one of these birds along themangrove-lined stream below Berry Springs.

135. BLUE-WINGED KOOKABURRA(Dacelo leachi)

Our first meeting with this species wasmost unfortunate. As we passed throughAdelaide River one flew down onto the roadright in front of the bus and was killed. Itobviously was intent on catching a lizard, afrog or an insect and by the time it seizedits prey it was only a foot or so in front ofthe bus and there was no opportunity ofavoiding it.

From this point onward we encounteredthis bird in varying numbers every day, including those spent at Nourlangie, until wereached Warlock Ponds on the returnjourney. As a general rule they were foundin the taller growth along water-courses oradjacent to lagoons.

The records for 1964 show 'the same pattern of distribution. Warlock Ponds wasthe southernmost point at which it was seenon that occasion also.

136. FOREST KINGFISHER(Halcyon macleayi)

This species was found, usually alongwater-courses or adjacent to lagoons, in thevicinity of Darwin (Fogg Dam, CameronBeach Road, Holmes Jungle, KoolpinyahRoad and Mica Beach) and at severalplaces between the Marrakai turnoff andJim Jim Crossing. It was fairly common atNourlangie and after leaving there we foundit between Goodparla and Moline and atWaI'lock Ponds (2 birds). The last mentioned sighting represents a considerablesouthern extension of the previously recordedrange.

Our 1964 records were at Holmes Jungle,Fogg Dam, Humpty Doo, Koolpinyah,Knuckey's Lagoon, Manton Dam and in theSouth Alligator River-Plumtree Creek areanear EI Sherana. Several were observed inthe latter area.

137. RED-BACKED KINGFISHER(Halcyon pyrrhopygius)

Single birds were observed at scatteredpoints along the road between Alice Springsand Pine Creek but none was seen northof Pine Creek. This is in contrast to thesituation in 1964, when we recorded it inDarwin itself, at Nightoliff, Berrimah, FoggDam, Humpty Doo, Knuckey's Lagoon andnear Katherine. On that occasion only onebird was seen south of Elliott, this being'between Renner Springs and Banka Banka..

In 1968 they were numerous around AliceSprings. As an example, 19 were seen whiledriving from Alice Springs to Glen Helen.

138. SACRED KINGFISHER(Halcyon sanctus)

Singly or in pairs at Leach's Lagoon,Casuarina Beach and the Tropicus Nurseryin Darwin, Fogg Dam, Knuckey's Lagoon,Holmes Jungle, East Point, Howard River


Crossing, Mica Beach and on the MarrakaiRoad. The 1964'sightings were practicallyidentical.

139. MANGROVE KINGFISHER(Halcyon chloris) .

Singly or in pairs at Ludmilla Creek,Cameron Beach and Mica Beach. The 1964records were Lee Point, Ludmilla Creek andDinah Beach in Darwin and at CameronBeach on Shoal Bay Peninsula.

140. RAINBOW-BIRD (Merops ornatus)First encountered at Leach's Lagoon a

few miles south of the King River and recorded, usually in moderate numbers, eachday until near Goodparla on our returnjourney. It was fairly common at FoggDam and also in the Nourlangie Area.Although we observed it at Leach's Lagoonand between there and Pine Creek on thenorthward journey we did not find it southof Pine Creek on our return.

In 1964 this bird was more numerousgenerally (approximately three weeks later)and was first seen between Katherine andPine Creek. It was seen in increasingnumbers north of there and was very numerous around Darwin. On the returnjourney it was encountered in the EI Sheranaarea and a few were seen around Matarankaand also at Lake Woods, south-west ofElliott.

141. SPOTTED NIGHTJAR(Eurostopdus guttatus)

One near Standley Chasm and one on theKoolgera Road about 15 miles south ofAlice Springs in 1968.

142. LARGE-TAILED NIGHTJAR(Caprimulgus macrurus)

One flushed from an open grassy areaadjacent to mangroves at Ludmilla Creek.Large white patches on the wings and whiteon the tip of the tail were noticeable features.The 'chop-chop' call of this species was heardon a couple of occasions at night at Nourlangie. This call was also heard whilewalking through scrub adjoining KoolpinyahLagoon.

143. PALLID CUCKOO (Cuculus pallidus)Recorded from Alice Springs and vicinity

(several), between Alice Springs and Aileron,between Tennant Creek and Banka Banka,at Elliott and in the Nourlangie area. On

most occasions only single. birds were sightedbut on the Deep Well Road near AliceSprings and at a point 605 miles south ofDarwin (between Banka Banka and TennantCreek) a pair was observed.

In 1964 apart from one bird seen fromthe train about 15 miles south of AliceSprings, the only sightings were in thenorthern end at Fogg Dam, Koolpinyah andin the scrub adjacent at Cameron Beach.The bird at Koolpinyah was calling andthere were three or four present at each ofthe other locations. It was plentiful aroundAlice Springs in 1968.

144. BRUSH CUCKOO(Cacomantis variolosus)

An immature bird at Fogg Dam, an adultat Howard River Crossing and several in theNourlangie area were the only observationsof this species.

In- 1964 single birds were recorded atParap (Darwin), Holmes Jungle, Knuckey'sLagoon, Humpty Doo Road, Fogg Dam andKoolpinyah.

145. BLACK-EARED CUCKOO(Misocalius osculans)

A single bird was both seen and heard byseveral of the party at Nourlangie. Twowere observed between Alice Springs andGlen Helen in 19q,8.

146. HORSFIELD BRONZE-CUCKOO(Chalcites basalis)

One bird only, at Nourlangie. It calledseveral times before it was harassed andeventually driven away by a Brown Honeyeater (Gliciphila indistincta). A few wereseen in the Alice Springs area in 1968.

147. LITTLE BRONZE-CUCKOO(Chalcites minutillus)

One was seen in the Tropicus Nursery(Nightcliff), one, possibly two, was presentat Fogg Dam and two single birds wereseen in the Nourlangie area. A noticeablefeature of this species in the field is the redeye.

148. PHEASANT COUCAL(Centropus phasianinus) .

Several were seen- adjacent to the beachand at Rapid Creek in Darwin and-up to adozen or more were .recorded from theNourlangie area.

In 1964 we found it near Fogg Dam, onthe Humpty Doo Road, at Koolpinyah and


along the South Alligator River and Plumtree Creek near El Sherana. At least Halfa dozen birds were seen in the latter area.

149. RAINBOW PITTA (Pitta iris)One bird was found by several of our

party in Holmes Jungle and on the samemorning a pair was located at East Pointby another group. This pair was observedby various members of the party on twofurther occasions. Another was both seenand heard in thick scrub within twenty feetof our camp at Nourlangie.

150. WELCOME SWALLOW(Hirundo neoxena)

A single bird flying back and forth overthe sewage treatment ponds at AliceSprings was the only recording of thisspecies. In 1968 three were seen just eastof Pichi Richi on the Emily Gap Road.

151. WHITE-BACKED SWALLOW(Cheramoeca leucosterna)

One was seen on the Santa Teresa Roadsouth of Alice Springs, another between theDevil's Marbles and Wauchope and severalat scattered intervals between the latter

.place and Titree Well on the return journey.In 1964 it was recorded on several occa

sions both at Alice Springs and betweenthere and Barrow Creek, and single birdswere observed on two occasions betweenTennant Creek and Renner Springs,

In 1968 there were a dozen or more atthe Alice Springs sewage treatment works,two on the road to Ross River and five on.the Emily Gap Road.

152. TREE MARTIN(Hylochelidon nigricans)

Two seen <lit the sewage treatment worksat Alice Springs; also found in Darwin andin nearby areas such as Fogg Dam wherethere were many hundreds, Knuckey'sLagoon and Koolpinyah. They were alsoscattered through the Nourlangie area. Inaddition three were .observed between Tennant Creek and. the Devil's Marbles on thereturn journey.

The 1964 sightings were at Adelaide River,Darwin, Fogg D~ (numerous), Knuckey'sLagoon, Cameron Beach, Marrakai Road(numerous), along the Pine Creek-El Sherana Road, Elsey Station and just north ofKatherine.

In. 1968 several were observed along theroad to Emily Gap.

153. FAIRY MARTIN(Hylochelidon ariel)

A single bird was seen .at Elliott and therewere a few with the large numbers of TreeMartins at Fogg Dam.

In 1964 a large flock of probably 200 to300 were on the Adelaide River plains nearHumpty Doo. We also recorded one bird atKatherine. In 1968 15 to 20 were gatheringmud from a roadside pool in the marketgardening area east of Pichi Richi.

154. GREY FANTAIL(Rhipidura fuliginosa)

Two were found on The Common atAlice Springs and another at Charles Creeksome three or four miles north, adjacent tothe Stuart Highway. We did not find it inthe northern end either on this trip or in1964.

In 1968 a pair was seen on the Deep WellRoad, a pair near Standley Chasm and afurther pair and a single bird on the Koolgera Road some 15 to 20 miles south ofAlice Springs.

155. RUFOUS FANTAIL(Rhipidura rufifrons)

Holmes Jungle (2), Mary River Crossing(2) and several in the Nourlangie area, werethe only sightings of this species in 1967._

In 1964 was recorded at Holmes Jungleand in the vicinity of Cameron Beach on theShoal Bay Peninsula. The last mentionedwas in mangroves but all other sightings forboth trips were in monsoon forest or insimilar type vegetation along watercourses.

]56. NORTHERN FANTAIL(Rhipidura setosa)

Almost invariably found in pairs and wasrecorded at Casuanina Beach, Fogg Dam,Cameron Beach, Holmes Jungle, East Point,Howard River Crossing, Mica Beach, theNourlangie area, near Goodparla, MaryRiver Crossing and along the WaterhouseRiver at .Mataranka. A pair at East Pointhad a nest containing two young.

In 1964 it was found at Holmes Jungle,Berry Springs Darwin River (nest almostready for eggs), East Point, Cameron. Beach,Marrakai Road, Hayes Creek (117 milessouth of Darwin) Plumtree Creek near EI


Sherana and at Mataranka (WaterhouseRiver).

This species appears to occur in two typesof habitat viz. coastal scrubs excluding mangroves and monsoon forest or similar typevegetation along watercourses.

157. WILLIE WAGTAIL(Rhipidura leucophrys)

This bird was seen everywhere throughoutthe journey including the Nourlangie area.On the return trip between Mataranka andLarrimah, they were very numerous. It wasearly morning and practically every hundredyards or so a pair was searching for insectson and at the edge of the bitumen. (Seealso notes on Jacky Winter.)

The 1964 records give a similar pictureof range and distribution. On that occasiontoo there was a concentration in the Mataranka-Larrimah area which also extendedalong the Roper River Road to the vicinityof Elsey Station.

Plentiful in all parts visited around AliceSprings in 1968 except along Deep Well andKoolgera Roads where it was not sighted.

158. LEADEN FLYCATCHER(Myiagra rubecula)

We did not find this bird until we reachedDarwin but we saw it on a number of occasions in and around there. It was presenton the Marrakai Road and from there onto Nourlangie where it was fairly plentiful.We also saw it on the way from the latterplace to Pine Creek and at Mataranka.

In 1964 it was recorded practically everyday from the time we reached Matarankauntil we arrived back there again on thereturn journey. This included the El Sherana area where we located several pairs.One area in which it was not recorded oneither trip was in the scrub around FoggDam which would appear to be suitablehabitat.

All sightings were either in coastal scrubs(rarely mangroves), in monsoon forest andthe similar growth along watercourses, or,on a few occasions, in eucalypt forest.

159. BROAD-BILLED FLYCATCHER(Myiagra ruficollis)

We found this species in mangroves atLudmilla Creek, in the melaleuca scrubsadjacent to Fogg Dam and the watercoursesand lagoons in the Nourlangie area. I twasat Ludmilla Creek in 1964 and on that occa-

sion we found a pair feeding two youngwhich had probably left the nest only a fewdays previously. It was also at Berry Springsin 1964.

160. RESTLESS FLYCATCHER(Seisura inquieta)

First sighted at Leach's Lagoon and it wasat this point that we last recorded it on thereturn journey. North of there it was foundsingly and in pairs at Fogg Dam, Knuckey'sLagoon, Ludmilla Creek, KoolpinyahHoward River, the Nourlangie area andWarlock Ponds.

In 1964 it was at Dunmara on both thenorthward and the return journey and wealso found it at Lake Woods, south-west ofElliott. Also recorded at Beatrice Lagoon,Berry Springs, Marakai, Pine Creek FergusonRiver, Elsey Station, Mataranka and betweenLarrimah and Daly Waters, as well as mostof the places in the vicinity of Darwin atwhich it occurred in 1967.

The Territory bird is noticeably smallerthan its southern counterpart and occursusually in the vicinity of water.

161. SHINING FLYCATCHER(Piezorhynchus alecto)

Found in mangroves, monsoon forest andwatercourse vegetation and was recorded atFogg Dam, Cameron Beach, Howard River,Nourlangie, Mary River Crossing (£1 Sherana Road) and Waterhouse River (Mataranka).

In 1964 it was observed at most of theseplaces, except the Nourlangie area whichwas not then visited, and in addition atHolmes Jungle, Ludmilla Creek, BerrySprings, Marrakai Road and the SouthAlligator River near El Sherana.

162. JACKY WINTER(Microeca leucophaea)

Was encountered at Dunmara, betweenthere and Larrimah, Leach's Lagoon, andbetween Katherine and Pine Creek. We didnot record it again until we reached Mataranka on our return. As we were travellingsouth between the latter place and Larrimahon the 21st July, it was observed in twosand threes every hundred yards or so alongthe way. They were apparently feeding oninsects and were intermixed with approximately equal numbers of Willie Wagtails.After passing Dunmara we did not see any


more until between Barrow Creek and Titree\Vell where one bird was observed.

In 1964 was recorded singly and in pairsthroughout .the area extending from LakeWoods and Elliott north to the vicinity ofPine Greek, also found in the vicinity of EISherana (several pairs) and at Marrakai.

163. BROWN-TAILED FLYCATCHER[Microeca brunneicauda)

One bird at Mica Beach was believed tobe this species. Unfortunately only a briefview was obtained (with binoculars) beforeit disappeared into a thick area of mangrovesand it was not re-located,

Storr in his List of Northern TerritoryBirds (W.A. Museum Spec. Pub. No.4)states that this "species is only certainlyknown from the Kimberly Division," however in 1964.there was a pair of birds feedingtwo young at Holmes Jungle on each of twooccasions upon which we visited that place.We obtained good close-up views of themand there were also Lemon-breasted Flycatchers (1.1. flavigaster) in the immediatevicinity. At that time we were not awarethat there was any doubt of this speciesoccurring in the locality but on the observations made, had no doubts as to their identify. Some of the Lemon-breasted speciesdo, aJt times lose the distinctive breast coloring almost entirely. We had seen several ofthem in this condition before we visitedHolmes Jungle and saw others later.

Subsequently we saw two birds in themangroves at Ludmilla Creek which werealso considered to be the Brown-tailedspecies.

164. LEMON-BREASTEDFLYCATCHER (Microeca flavigaster)

Recorded every day from the time wereached Warlock Ponds until we passed thatpoint again on our return. In some partsit was quite numerous, particularly soaround the camp at Nourlangie where thedawn chorus from the paperbarks along theDeath Adder Creek was a thrilling experience.

The 1964 records show the 'same patternof distribution with Mataranka being themost southerly observation point both goingnorth and on our return. We did not however, record it from the El Sherana-PineCreek area on that occasion, although onthe 1967 excursion it was sighted near Good-

parla and also between there and Molineon the Mary River.

This species is fairly cosmopolitan asregard habitat, being found in mangroves,in the monsoon forest-like growth alongwatercourses, as well as in open forest.

165. RED-CAPPED ROBIN(Petroica goodenovii)

Several pairs were sighted in the vicinityof Alice Springs and a female was seen atBarrow Creek. In 1964 three male birdswere noted between Alice Springs andBarrow Creek. In 1968 some 15 pairs andseveral single birds were observed in theAlice Springs area.

166. HOODED ROBIN(Petroica cucullata)

On the northward journey two pairs wereobserved between Titree well and BarrowCreek and a female between Tennant Creekand Banka Banka. No further sightingsoccurred until we were at Nourlangie whereone male was seen. On the return trip apair was present at Warlock Ponds, severalsingle birds between Mataranka and Dunmara and a pair at the Devil's Marbles.

In 1964 the species was observed singlyor occasionally in pairs, at scattered intervalsbetween Alice Springs and Mataranka.

Pairs and single birds were seen at 17mile bore north of Alice Springs, on theRoss River Road, near Standley Chasm andon the road to Glen Helen in 1968.

167. BUFF-SIDED ROBIN(Poecilodryas superciliosa]

Two birds on the Waterhouse River atMataranka, were the only observations ofthis species in 1967. In 1964 it was seenin monsoon forest at Holmes Jungle (1), inbamboo thickets in a creek on the MarrakaiRoad about 10.6 miles east of the StuartHighway (2), in bamboos on the MaryRiver between Pine Creek and EI Sherana(1) and in dense pandanus on the Waterhouse River (2).

168. RUFOUS WHISTLER(Pachycephala rufiventris)

Recorded in and near Alice Springs butnot sighted again until between Katherineand Pine Creek. It was also found at FoggDam, Mica Beach and Nourlangie. On thereturn journey it was observed at Mataranka,Warlock Ponds, Leach's Lagoon, Elsey Creek

172 THE S.A. 0RJllITHOLOGIST

and between Larrimah and Dunmara(several) .

In 1964 it was encountered between Dunmara and Larrimah, Warlock Ponds, Mataranka, Fogg Dam, Marrakai Road, PineCreek-EI Sherana and Elsey Station. Fairlyplentiful in and around Alice Springs in1968.

169. WHITE-BREASTED WHISTLER(Pachycephala lanioides)

A female was seen at Cameron Beach andalthough the male was heard calling nearby,it could not be located. At Mica Beach thewriter heard a bird calling intermittentlyand after 'considerable scrambling throughmangroves sighted the male for a brief periodbefore it retreated further into the densegrowth. A few minutes later the femaleflew onto a nearby branch and remainedthere for several minutes calling very softlyeach time the male uttered his strong call.

In 1964 the writer observed a pair of thesebirds in mangroves on Shoal Bay Peninsulaon the road to Cameron Beach and a littlelater a female was seen by all members ofthe party in the coastal scrub at CameronBeach. The male, in the field, appears Iargeby comparison with the other whistlers.

170. BROWN WHISTLER(Pachycephala simplex)

Observed at Ludmilla Creek, CasuarinaBeach, Tropicus Nursery, East Point, Cameron Beach (several, with one feeding a youngbird), Howard River and Mica Beach. In1964 it was found at Berry Springs, DinahBeach, Ludmilla Creek and in the vicinityof Cameron Beach, where it was fairly plentiful.

171. WESTERN SHRIKE-THRUSH(Colluricincla rufiventris)

Found in the vicinity of Alice Springsincluding along the Deep Well Road andat the bore 16 miles north. Not sighted in1964 but in 1968 was seen on a number ofoccasions. Its occurrance appears to bemore or less confined to 'the gorges andoccasionally on the more densely vegetatedcreeks.

172. BROWN SHRIKE-THRUSH(Colluricincla brunnea)

Observed between Coomalie Creek andDarwin, at Mica Beach on the road to Jim

Jim Crossing, in the Nourlangie area andat Leach's Lagoon.

The 1964 records were from near BerrySprings, Shoal Bay Peninsula, on the Marrakai Road and in the EI Sherana area. Inthe latter place it occurred on the sandstoneranges and on one occasion, one bird wasobserved within a few feet of a Brownbreasted Shrike-thrush (C. woodwardi).

173. BROWN-BREASTED SHRIKETHRUSH (Colluricincla woodwardi)

Several birds were both seen and heardon the side and top of the Amhem LandEscarpment some sixteen miles from theNourlangie Camp. In 1964 the writer sawtwo birds at separate places in the sandstoneranges above Plumtree Creek near EI Sherana.

The bright chestnut-brown breast andabdomen with the lighter brown throat combined with the dark brown of the back makethis bird distinguishable from other membersof the genus and, despite its habit of sneaking through crevices and under overhangingrocks, it is not difficult to locate. Howeverit is not easy to obtain good views of it unlessone remains perfectly still for a while. Thebird will then frequently come into the openas it fossicks in cracks and crannies in searchof food. To pursue it is hopeless as thewriter discovered in 1964 when endeavouringto obtain a photograph.

This was high on a sandstone range overlooking the South Alligator River near EISherana. The top of the range was ajumbled mass of large boulders interspersedwith shrubs and the bird kept far enoughahead to he out of camera range. Thechase ended satisfactorily for the bird inthat it avoided having its photo taken. However in doing so it led the writer to a largeoverhanging rock upon which were a considerable number of magnificent examples ofaboriginal art. Kangaroos, fish, turtles, reptiles and human figures in colors rangingfrom black through various shades of brown,red and yellow to white, covered a largearea of the rock. In some instances figureswere painted over the top of others apparently because an artist could not find a clearspace for his work. The site commanded awide view of the surrounding country whichshowed no trace of the hand of man and,with the melodious calls of the now almost


forgotten thrush echoing through the rockyterrain, it was not difficult to picture thescenes in years long gone as the artists workedon their masterpieces. A pleasing featurewas the complete absence of any vandalismor defacement and the remarkable state ofpreservation of the paintings.

174. LITTLE SHRIKE-THRUSH(C olluricincla paruula)

Observed usually in pairs, in monsoonforest or 'the similar type streamside vegetation at Holmes Jungle, Howard River, Nourlangie (on several occasions), Mary River(between Goodparla and Moline) and onthe Watercourse River.

The small size of this bird combined withthe prominent white throat and the brownbreast and abdomen make it readily distinguishable from other members of thegenus. The calls, which are melodious inquality, have considerable variety.

175. MAGPIE-LARK (Grallina cyanoleuca)This species was recorded every day

throughout this trip and that of 1964.Generally it was sparsely scattered in theareas south of Dunmara but occurred in increasing numbers north of there. In 1964it was extremely numerous in the vicinity ofDarwin and on one occasion we came uponseveral hundred of them feeding with largenumbers of Straw-necked Ibis and Forktailed Kites in a particularly slushy piggery.The sight of these birds delving into piles ofrotting bones 'and offal with their normallyimmaculate plumage stained and caked withfilth was not a pleasant one.

At Alice Springs in early August 1964, inspite of the drought conditions prevailing,an occupied nest and one in the course ofconstruction were found in gums along theTodd River.

Numerous in the Alice Springs area in1968.

176. NORTHERN SHRIKE-TIT(Falcunculus whitei)

One of the highlights of the trip was thesighting of a single bird in open forest onthe margin of Leach's Lagoon, while on ourway north. Attention was first drawn to thebird by a call which although familiar, wasdifferent from any that the writer had previously heard. Moving in the direction ofthe call we eventually located the bird

perched on the top of a eucalypt, some 25to 30 feet tall. This was a first sighting forevery member of the party and is in factone of the few occasions upon which thespecies has been recorded.

The bird, which continued to call intermittently all the while we were watchingit gave only one type of call. This commenced with the familiar mournful descending notes of the Eastern species (similar tothat of the Black-eared Cuckoo) but insteadof repeating the same descending call it followed immediately with an upward group ofsimilar duration and with a similar range ofnotes but in reverse. On some occasionsthe bracket of descending and ascendingnotes was repeated several times in quicksuccession but more frequently the singlebracket was given at irregular intervals. Onno occasion did it merely give part of thebracket viz. the descending portion withoutthe upward bracket following immediately.The descending portion was, as far as couldbe determined under 'the circumstances, inapproximately the same register as that ofthe Eastern bird.

177. CRESTED BELLBIRD(Oreoica gutturalis)

Encountered fairly frequently in the vicinity of Alice Springs and between there andTitree Well. The only record further northwas of one at the turnoff to Elsey Stationand Roper Bar about 290 miles south ofDarwin.

In 1964 the bird was sighted at scatteredintervals which increased in length towardthe north, from Alice Springs to a pointjust south of Larrimah. In 1968 it was seenand heard fairly frequently on most days inthe Alice Springs area.

178. GROUND CUCKOO-SHRIKE(Pteropodocys maxima)

A party of eleven in Alice Springs was theonly observation for 1967. In 1964 a partyof eight was seen a few miles north of Mataranka feeding on the ground near the sideof the main highway.

In 1968 it was seen in pairs and singlesnorth, south, east and west of Alice Springs.One pair near Trephina Gorge and anothernear Simpson Gap were nesting while another pair between Jay Creek and GlenHelen were feeding two flying young.

174 THE S.A. O~ITHOLOGIST

179. BLACK-FACED CUCKOO-SHRIKE(Coracina novae-hollandiae)

Recorded on every stage of the journeyfrom Alice Springs to Darwin and returnas well as in Nourlangie area. Its occurrence was more scattered in the moresouthern parts but north of Adelaide Riverand Nourlangie it is one of the more frequently seen species.

In 1964 it was a similar story with, however, only a few individuals being seen southof Larrimah and with substantially greaternumbers present in the northern areas. Itwas observed singly and in twos and threeson most days at scattered points in the AliceSprings area in 1968.

180. WHITE-BREASTED CUCKOOSHRIKE (Coracina hypoleuca)

This species was found in practicallyevery place that we visited from the timewe reached the Warlock Ponds-Matarankaarea, until we returned to this area on thereturn journey. It was numerous in theNourlangie area and generally throughoutthe 'top end' it was in numbers comparablewith those of C. novae-hollandiae. On themorning of our first day in Darwin an adultwas seen feeding a young bird on the telephone wires outside our hotel.

Warlock Ponds was also the most southerlyrecord of the bird in 1964, but while werecorded it every day north of there it wasmuch less numerous than the Black-facedspecies. Their numbers were probably in theproportion of, at the most, one to ten.

181. CICADA BIRD(Edoliisoma tenuirostre)

A male seen at Nourlangie Camp by onemember of the party (Mrs. C. Lawrence).

182. WHITE-WINGED TRILLER(Lalage sueurii)

Fairly evenly distributed throughout fromAlice Springs to Darwin and east to Nourlangie. Generally it was not numerous withthe average daily sightings being about fourbirds. The majority of the birds seen wereeither females or males in eclipse plumage.There were very few males in full plumage.

In 1964 a few were sighted at scatteredpoints between Renner Springs and Warlock Ponds but from the latter place northto Pine Creek and east to El Sherana they

were quite numerous, with daily talliesranging up to thirty or forty birds. Generally,north of Pine Creek they were scarce exceptalong the road to Berry Springs and also onthe Marrakai Road. Apart from these twoareas only odd birds were observed in Darwinand the surrounding areas.

In 1968 there were two pairs nesting nearthe Alice Springs sewage treatment worksand twenty or more pairs along the roadfrom Alice Springs to Trephina Gorge andRoss River. It was not seen in any otherlocality.

183. VARIED TRILLER.(Lalage leucomela)

Recorded usually in pairs but occasionallysingly, at Casuarina Beach (3), East Point(2), Cameron Beach (7) Koolpinyah (2)between Marrakai and Jim Jim (3) and inthe Nourlangie area where they were fairlyplentiful, particularly in the more denselytimbered areas along watercourses andadjacent to lagoons.

In 1964 recorded at Adelaide River,Botanic Gardens and the nearby beach inDarwin, Berry Springs, Koolpinyah, LeePoint, Ludmilla Creek and Shoal Bay Peninsula.

184. YELLOW FIGBIRD(Sphecotheres flaviventris)

Found in parties ranging from two orthree up to fifteen or more at Katherine,Botanic Gardens (Darwin), Tropicus Nursery, Rapid Creek (Nightcliff), Knuckey'sLagoon, Shoal Bay Peninsula and in theNourlangie area, where a number of suchparties were seen.

The 1964 observations included a flock ofabout 40 birds near Fogg Dam as well assmaller parties at Berry Springs, Koolpinyah,Shoal Bay Peninsula, various parts of Darwin and at a point a few miles north ofHayes Creek, approximately 117 miles southof Darwin.

185. RED-BREASTED BABBLER(Pomatostomus rubeculus)

Found fairly plentifully around AliceSprings and along the Santa Teresa Roadsouth of Alice Springs. It was not againencountered until we arrived at Dunmara,but from there on it was widespread andregularly encountered. This included theNourlangie area where it was seen frequently.


The distribution was very similar in 1964.It occurred around Alice Springs but we sawnone between there an d Elliott. Thenumbers north of Elliott were about thesame as in 1967. The great majority of theparties seen on both excursion consisted offive birds. Occasionally there were onlythree or four but rarely were there morethan five.

In 1968 seen fairly frequently over mostof the Alice Springs area. All parties consisted of five birds or less except one on theRoss River Road which had nine birds.

186. WHITE-BROWED BABBLER(Pomatostomus superciliosus)

One party of seven or eight birds wasobserved on the Santa Teresa Road, southof Alice Springs. There were also one ortwo parties of the Red-breasted species inthe near vicinity.

In 1968 a party of 8 was seen on theDeep Well Road about 20 miles south ofAlice Springs, one of eight near StandleyChasm and another of nine on the KoolgeraRoad (15 miles south).

187. CRIMSON CHAT(Epthianura tricolor)

Fairly common around Alice Springs andalso in small loose flocks of up to 30 ormore at scattered intervals between thereand Renner Springs. None were seen northof the latter place and we did not find itagain until, on the return journey, wereached the Devil's Marbles. Small partieswere seen between there and Barrow Creek.

In 1964 it was not sighted until betweenWauchope and Tennant Creek and fromthere on to Elliott we found small scatteredparties, all were either females or males ineclipse plumage. The first cock-bird inbreeding plumage was at Elliott. Four fullycoloured males were seen between Katherineand Pine Creek but we saw no more untilwe reached EI Sherana on the return. Therewe saw a male in full colour. They werefairly numerous along the road to Elsey Station and there were a few around Mataranka. All of these except one or two werecoloured males. From Larrimah south toAlice Springs where small groups were seenat scattered intervals all but one or twowere in female garb.

This species was extremely numerous north

and north-east of Alice Springs in 1968, but,apart from a dozen or so near Simpson Gap,was not seen in any other part of the area.

188. ORANGE CHAT(Epthianura aurijrons)

One male and 5 or 6 females were seennear the Aerodrome at Alice Springs andseveral of each sex were found at the Devil'sMarble£ on the return journey.

Not observed in 1964 or 1968.

189. WHITE-THROATED WARBLER(Gerygone olivacea)

Two birds were found, after hearing thecharacteristic calls, in a eucalypt at the edgeof the water at Leach's Lagoon.

190. LARGE-BILLED WARBLER(Gerygone magnirostris)

Fairly plentiful in mangroves at LudmillaCreek where one pair had a nest containingyoung. Also at Cameron Beach and MicaBeach. A pair was also found near Knuckey's Lagoon in teatree scrub.

In 1964 it was found at Ludmilla Creek(nest), Holmes Jungle, along the AdelaideRiver at Humpty Doo, Cameron Beach,Dinah Beach, East Point and near Koolpinyah (nest with young).

191. GREEN-BACKED WARBLER(Gerygone chloronota)

Recorded from Botanic Gardens (Darwin), Casuarina Beach, Tropicus Nursery,East Point, Fogg Dam, Cameron Beach,Howard River, and Mica Beach.

In 1964 it was found on the waterfrontiII Darwin, at Koolpinyah, where two <birdswere seen carrying small red berries, apparently to feed young, Lee Point, CameronBeach and in a bamboo creek on the Marrakai Road.

The call of this species is readily distinguishable from that of other members ofthe genus.

192. BUFF-BREASTED WARBLER(Gerygone levigaster)

Two birds seen at Casuarina Beach, Darwin, were the only record. In 1964, it wasseen at Dinah Beach.

193. WESTERN WARBLER(Gerygone fusca)

Seen and heard calling on The Commonand at Connellan Creek in Alice Springs

176 THE S.A. ORNITHOLOGIST"

and in mulga scrub near the bore 16 milesnorth of Alice Springs.

In 1968 the species was found on theDeep Well Road a:bout 20 miles south ofAlice Springs, at points along the StuartHighway 38 and 42 miles north and nearStandley Chasm.

194. WEEBILL (Smicrornis brevirostris)The field experiences of this excursion and

that of 1964, indicate that there may betwo races of this species within the Territory.On the present trip Weebills were seen inthe gums along the Todd River in AliceSprings, on the Charles Creek a few milesnorth and along a watercourse on the SantaTeresa Road some miles south of the town.Two were found feeding two fledgelingsnear the Devil's Marbles and two were atChurchill's Head a few miles south of BankaBanka. In both these instances the birdswere in eucalypts along watercourses. Theremaining records for the trip were at Noonamah, on ·the road to Koolpinyah, theNourlangie area (fairly numerous in openforest), Warlock Ponds, Leach's Lagoon andElsey Creek.

In 1964 it was recorded at Alice Springs(Todd River) and all other sightings werefrom a point just south of Larrimah northto the vicinity of Darwin, viz. WarlockPonds, Mataranka, Humpty Doo, BerrySprings and the El Sherana area. In 1968several of the southern form were seen alongthe Todd River in Alice Springs.

The general impression in the field of thebirds of the "top end" i.e. north of Larrimah,is that they are smaller and more yellowthan those occurring around Alice Springsand from there to Banka Banka. Actuallythe latter birds appear similar in size to theSouthern Australian form but are moreyellow on the breast and somewhat paler ingeneral colouration.

195. EASTERN WHITEFACE(Aphelocephala leucopsis)

Fairly numerous round Alice Springs including along the Santa Teresa Road, Connellan Creek and at the bore 16 miles north.It was found in the same area in 1964 andin 1968 was present in some numbers alongthe Deep Well Road, on the road to Trephina Gorge and around the 16 mile bore.

The Alice Springs birds have been placed

under A. leucopsis rather than that of theWestern form because, in the field theyappear to have the characteristics of theSouth Australian form which is generallyregarded as being leucopsis.

196. BANDED WHITEFACE(Aphelocephala nigricincta)

At least four or these were observed inthe company of a party of A. leucopsis onthe Deep Well Road, about 20 miles southof Alice Springs. Four more were locatedill Jimmy Weir's Paddock near Alice Springsand, on the way back from Darwin, we sawa party of 8 or 9 at Barrow Creek.

197. WHITLOCK THORNBILL(Acanthiza pusilla)

Seen fairly frequently in and around AliceSprings at such places as The Common,Connellan Creek and at the 16 mile bore,(north of Alice). In 1964 it was not observed but was fairly evenly distributed inthe Alice Springs area in 1968.

198. CHESTNUT-TAILED THORNBILL(Acanthiza uropygialis)

Found in the hills immediately north ofAlice Springs, on the Deep Well Road andat the 16 mile bore. Not seen in 1964 butplentiful in the Alice Springs area in 1968.

199. YELLOW-TAILED THORNBILL(Acanthiza chrysorrhoa)

Observed on the Santa Teresa Road andat Connellan Creek, Alice Springs. Oneparty was observed in Alice Springs in 1964and in 1968 it was present in most of theplaces visited around Alice Springs.

200. REDTHROAT(Pyrrholaemus brunneus)

Two birds at Connellan Creek, AliceSprings and two at Barrow Creek. In 1968it was found along both Deep Well andKoolgera Roads as well as at TrephinaGorge. Not seen in 1964.

201. SPINIFEX-BIRD(Eremiornis carteri)

Not recorded in 1967.In 1964 a pair was observed near Chur

chill's Head at a point about 593 miles southof Darwin. They were in tall tangled grassalong a creek and both protested very noisilyand behaved as if they were nesting. How-


ever we failed to find either nest or fledglings.

In 1968 the species was found in spinifexalong the Deep Well Road, between 20 and30 miles south of Alice Springs, and betweenJay Creek and Glen Helen.

The similarly in the calls and behaviourof this bird and the Tawny Grass bird(Megalurus timoriensis) is considerable. Thescolding calls when alarmed and the "chuck,chuck" pair communication call are so alikethat identity could not be determined merelyon the basis of these calls.

202. BROWN SONGLARK(Cinclorhamphus cruralis)

One in Alice Springs and several alongthe Santa Teresa Road.

In 1964 one was seen at Barrow Creekarid there were ten or twelve at Koolpinyah,The cocks at the latter place were in nonbreeding plumage. Fairly plentiful in themore open areas around Alice Springs in1968.

203. RUFOUS SONGLARK(Cinclorhamphus mathewsi)

A scattered party of about 20 was observed a couple of miles south east of theAlice Springs Aerodrome. They were notcalling and sneaked furtively through shrubsand along the ground when approached,They were also numerous along the SantaTeresa Road, where occasional birds gavehalf-hearted calls, and several were seen andheard at the 16 mile bore. The only otherrecord for the trip, was one bird at Leach'sLagoon near Maranboy.

In 1964 was recorded at Mataranka (3)and one between Katherine and Pine Creek.III 1968 they were fairly plentiful in mostparts visited around Alice Springs and onmost occasions were calling continuously.

204. DUSKY GRASS-WREN(Amytornis textilis)

Five or six were seen and others heardin porcupine grass on the southern slopesof the Mt. Gillen Range, Alice Springs. Notobserved in 1964. In 1968 two recorded onlower slopes of Mt. Gillen Range near therubbish dump.

205. WHITE-THROATED GRASS-WREN(Amytornis woodwardi)

One bird observed at close range by thewriter in a clump of spinifex about half-

way up the side of the Arnhem Land Escarpment about 20 miles east of Nourlangie. Thisis a most attractive bird with the whitethroat being most conspicuous. It appearedlarger than the members of the genus foundin the southern parts of the continent.

Although it has been recorded in thePlumtree Creek area near El Sherana, wedid not locate it there in 1964. However aparty from the Adelaide Ornithologists Clubwhich visited this latter area in AugustSeptember 1967, saw several of them.

206. TAWNY GRASSBIRD(Megalurus timoriensis)

This species was found at Fogg Dam (3),Koolpinyah (1), and at Nourlangie (2). In1964, ,we recorded it at Fogg Dam, Koolpinyah, in thick grass and rushes near Darwin Harbour.

207. REED WARBLER(Acrocephalus australis)

Two or three of this species were seen inthe reeds at Fogg Dam in 1967 and alsoin 1964.

208. GOLDEN-HEADED FANTAILWARBLER (Cisticola exilis)

This species was present in some numbersin many parts of the "top end" and was recorded from Fogg Dam, adjoining HolmesJungle, East Point, Koolpinyah, Mica Beach,Nourlangie and Leach's Lagoon.

In 1964 our sightings were at Fogg Dam,Darwin Golf Course, Koolpinyah and nearHolmes Jungle.

Whether any of the birds were the Com.mon or Streaked Fantail Warbler, C. juncidis, was impossible to determine. Most ofthe birds seen were in non-breeding plumageand the only calls heard were those attributable to C. exilis. The birds seen at EastPoint and there were several of them, mayhave possibly been juncidis. They were inthick tussock grass at the very head of thepoint and there was no water or swampyarea anywhere in the vicinity. It seemedan unusual habitat for exilis.

209. RUFOUS-CROWNED EMU WREN(Stipiturus ruficeps)

Several parties of this very striking birdwere found on the 'Southern slopes of the


Mt. Gillen Range, Alice Springs. For anyone able to hear their very high pitched softcalls, finding them was not difficult on thispart of the range, as they were fairly plentiful.

A person unable to hear the calls howeverwould have the utmost difficulty in locatingthem for they will remain hidden in evena very small spinifex while you walk withina foot or so of them.

The calls are at a pitch which is apparentlyabove the range of detection by many peopleand only those capable of picking up veryhigh frequency notes can hear them. Fortunately the writer was in the latter categoryand by sitting quietly at a point where callscould be heard on all sides, it was only amatter of a few minutes before several birdsincluding a male in full plumage emergedfrom the centres of spinifex clumps at buta few yards range.

The general impression gained whilewatching these birds, and others later in theday, was that in some respects they are moreakin to Malurus than are either S. malachurus or S. mallee. The calls include trillswhich although weaker, are very similar incharacter to those uttered by Malurus leuconotus. The tail feathers, except that theyare more delicate in structure, closely resemble those of the Malurus. They do nothave the "emu feather" appearance of thesouthern representatives of the genus. Inaddition the male with his conspicuouslybrilliant blue breast and chestnut crown canreadily be mistaken for a M alurus.

This latter feature is of little importanceexcept as it affects one's general impressionof the bird. The difference in tail structurewas however confirmed by the examinationof specimens in the museum at theC.S.I.R.O. establishment at Alice Springs.

In 1968 family parties of this species werefound along the Deep Well Road, 25 to 30miles south of Alice Springs. One party hadtwo coloured males.

210. TURQUOISE WREN(Malurus callainu.r)

This species was observed at the AliceSprings aerodrome, at Connellan Creek andthe bore 16 miles north of Alice Springs.In 1964, it was found in Alice Springs andat a point between there and Aileron, 917

miles south of Darwin and in 1968 was seennear the 16 mile bore at a point 38 milesnorth of Alice Springs, near Standley Chasmand near Ormiston Gorge.

211. BLUE-AND-WHITE WREN(Malurus leuconotus)

A family party including one fully plumaged male was seen in Jimmy Weir's paddock just south of Heavitree Gap. Notseen in 1964 but in 1968 was near HeavitreeGap and at the sewage treatment worksAlice Springs.

212. PURPLE-BACKED WREN(Malurus assimilis)

Family groups were found at the aerodrome, Connellan Creek and Charles Creek,all in the vicinity of Alice Springs, and alsoat Barrow Creek, the Devil's Marbles andat. Elsey Creek. The latter observation wasof considerable interest in that this party,consisting of a fully coloured male andseven or eight uncoloured birds, was in aclump of teatree only some 20 yards or sofrom a party of Lavender-flanked Wrens (M.amabilis). Details of this incident are givenin the comments on the latter species.

The only 1964 record of the Purple-backedspecies was of a coloured male and severaluncoloured birds at Morphett Creek, betweenTennant Creek and Banka Banka, 584 milessouth of Darwin. It was fairly plentiful inthe Alice Springs are in 1968.

213. LAVENDER-FLANKED WREN(Malurus amabilis)

We first encountered this species on theside of the Arnhem Land Escarpment sometwenty miles east of Nourlangie when wefound a well coloured male and 5 or 6 uncoloured birds. Shortly after seeing thesebirds three of us climbed to the top of thescarp where, in an area of huge bouldersinterspersed with some medium sized shrubs,the writer found himself in the centre of alarge group consisting of three males (1partly coloured) and about ten females oruncoloured males.

These birds were very excited and chasedone another in and out among the rocksand bushes without taking the 'slightest noticeof me. At times some of them were close


enough to touch. One bird actually perchedmomentarily on my shoulder.

These birds have proportionately longertails than most of the Malurus and they arevery blue in colour. On each outer marginof the tail there are two or three roughlytriangular white patches which frequentlygive the impression of being notches snippedout of the sides of the tail. The head andupper parts of the uncoloured birdsirrespective of sex are a distinctive bluegrey, while the underparts including thethroat and around the eye are a warmyellow-buff grading to almost white on thelower abdomen and under-tail coverts.

This coloration of the "uncoloured" birdswas most noticeable when, shortly after observing a party of M. assimilis in a clumpof teatree on Elsey Creek, we discovered afamily of six or seven M. amabilis includinga male in breeding plumage about 20 yardsaway in an area of tall grass interspersedwith a few small shrubs. By comparison theuncoloured assimilis were a very drab brown.

The finding of amabilis in this localityrepresents a significant extension in the recorded range of the species. I t is also aslight extension of that of assimilis and thepresence of breeding groups of both specieswould appear to indicate an overlap in theranges of the two.

214. RED-BACKED WREN(Malurus melanocephalus)

On the northward journey this specieswas first sighted at Mataranka. From therenorth it was found in small numbers in mostareas where there was open forest with thicktall grass cover on the ground. Other placesin which it was found were between AdelaideRiver and Coomalie Oreek, on the Koolpinyah Road, Nourlangie area, along theroad between Goodparla and Pine Creek,Warlock Ponds and, on the return trip, ata point between Larrimah and Dunmara364 miles south of Darwin.

The species was seen most frequently inthe vicinity of Nourlangie. In this area thecustom of burning off the grass, which ispractised so extensively around Darwin, isnot so prevalent. This means more suitablehabitat for these birds which must be seriouslydepleted in numbers in the frequently-burntareas.

In 1964 it was recorded northward fromWarlock Ponds and was seen in greaternumbers than in 1967. Whether this wasdue to the difference in seasonal conditionsprevailing or to the effect of burning offover the intervening period is unknown.

215. WHITE-BREASTED WOODSWALLOW (Artamus leucorhynchus)

Was seen at Newcastle Waters Creek,Leach's Lagoon, Coomalie Creek, Darwin,Nourlangie and Warlock Ponds in parties ofup to 25 usually in the vicinity of water.

The exception to the latter was in Darwin,where they were seen every morning andevening flying between their roosting andfeeding areas.

In 1964, they were found at WarlockPonds, Mataranka, Coomalie Creek, Darwin,EI Sherana Road and Elsey Station. Onthat occasion also they were numerous inDarwin and were seen flying over everymorning and evening.

216. MASKED WOOD-SWALLOW(Artamus personatus)

The only definite records of this specieswere on the return journey at a pointbetween Larrimah and Dunmara 350 milessouth of Darwin, where there were severalhundred of them feeding among the blossoms of a creamy-yellow flowering eucalyptand two pairs between Elliott and RennerSprings.

This was in contrast to the experience in1964, when there were several hundred inthe vicinity of Elliott, and from Larrimahnorth through Mataranka to about half waybetween Katherine and Pine Creek and eastto Elsey Station and beyond, they were incountless thousands. Throughout mostof this area Eucalyptus miniata was flowering heavily and in many instances these birdswere feeding among the blossom. Whetherthey were obtaining insects or nectar couldnot be determined but from the actions ofthe birds it appeared to be the latter.

217. WHITE-BROWED WOODSWALLOW (Artamus superciliosus)

Two were seen between Tennant Creekand Banka Banka. Two more were observedbetween Banka Banka and Elliott; and therewere a few pairs in the company of the


Masked species between Larrimah and Dunmara. Recorded in small numbers only in1964, generally as scattered pairs among thevast flocks of Masked and Black-faced Woodswallows between Elliott and Pine Creek.

218. BLACK-FACED WOOD-SWALLOW(Artamus cinereus )

The most widespread member of the genusin the parts of the Territory covered by theexcursion. It was seen in pairs and smallgroups at frequent intervals around AliceSprings and from there north to Pine Creek,both on the outward and return journey.The only record north of Pine Creek was atFogg Dam, where they were fairly plentiful.

In 1964, the general range of the specieswas very similar. On that occasion howeverin addition to being present at Fogg Damthey were also observed along the MarrakaiRoad. They were very numerous betweenPine Creek and Elliott. In 1968 was fairlyplentiful in the Alice Springs area.

219. LITTLE WOOD-SWALLOW(Artamus minor)

Encountered singly or in twos and threes,generally in the more open type of country,from a point 410 miles south of Darwin,between Dunmara and Larrimah, to thevicinity of Darwin (Koolpinyah Road andCoomalie Creek). I t was more plentiful inthe Nourlangie area than in other parts visited.

In 1964, the southermost sighting was atWarlock Ponds and generally it was substantially more numerous than in 1967, particularly in the area between Mataranka andPine Creek and eastwards to EI Sherana.

The wings of this species when in flightappear to be propo:rtionately longer and narrower than those of other members of thegenus and it has a habit of sweeping andweaving low over swamps and lagoons inpursuit of insects. At times it will even pickthem off the surface of the water. Whenbehaving in this manner it is very swallowlike both in general appearance and in behaviour and from a .distance could at firstglance be mistaken for a Welcome Swallow(Hirundo neoxena.)

220. BLACK-HEADED SITTELLA(Neositta pileata)

A party of about 12 birds was observedon the Alice Springs Common. Two or

three of these birds had whitish patches onthe wings instead of orange. We ascertainedthat some of the local ornithologists heldthat both the Black-headed and the Whitewinged species occurred in the area and theyproduced skins from the local museum toprove the point. However from examination of these skins it appeared that eventhose with the brightest wing 'Patches carriedless color than the birds of southern areasand that, in some, it was a pale buffy-white.

Others have recorded birds with whitewing patches at Alice Springs and at BarrowCreek (Hitchcock, W.B. and Jarman, H.E.1944 South Australian Ornithologist17:12-17) and it has been suggested (Storr,G.M. 1966, The Western Aust. Museum,Special Publication No. 4:53) that thesecould refer to birds of the present species inwhich the wing patch was partly white.

In the writer's opinion this is the case.The party that we saw contained a majorityof normal birds and the calls that we heardwere typical of pileata. There was not onecall (and the birds were quite noisy) whichwas in anyway similar to that of leucopterawhich, as described under that species, isquite distinct.

The species was seen near Standley Chasm,Ormiston Gorge, Serpentine Gorge and bythe Stuart Highway 38 miles north of AliceSprings in 1968. Some had whitish wingpatches but all had typical pileata calls.

221. WHITE-WINGED SITTELLA(Neositta leucoptera)

Was recorded in parties of from six to tenbirds at Leach's Lagoon, near Goodparlaand at Warlock Ponds. In 1964 similar sizedparties were observed at a point a few milessouth of Larrimah, on the Marrakai Road,at Mataranka (nesting) and on the road toElsey Station.

When a party of these birds is feeding oris in flight as a loose flock through timberedcountry, the birds keep up a continuous communication call which is quite different fromthat of the Black-headed species. The callconsists of a high-pitched, peevish, drawnout note repeated several times. One's impression, when hearing it for the first time,is that it is the sound of young nestlingscalling for food. The call has none of thechattering character of the pileata communication call.


222. WHITE-BROWED TREE-CREEPER(Climacteris affinis)

Two birds were seen in Alice Springs in1964 but the species was not sighted in 1967.Several in the Alice Springs area in 1968.

223. BLACK-TAILED TREE-CREEPER(Climacteris melanura)

This species was encountered betweenMataranka and Leach's Lagoon, along theroad to Koolpinyah, where a pair were feeding young in a nest in the hollow spout ofa dead eucalypt some 18 to 20 feet from theground, and at various places along the roadto Nourlangie. It was scattered throughoutthe Nourlangie area, and we also observedit along the Pine Creek-EI Sherana Road,and at Warlock Ponds.

In 1964 it was found in open forestcountry from Larrimah north to the vicinityof Darwin and from Pine Creek east to EISherana. On the return journey we sightedone bird at Lake Woods some 14 miles 'Southwest of Elliott.

The pale buff to, at times, almost whitishwing-patch displayed by the species when inflight is very distinctive and frequently drawsone's attention to the bird as it moves fromtree-trunk to tree-trunk in a typical treecreeper manner. The call is a high-pitchedwhistle repeated several times and is similarto that of other members of the genus.

224. MISTLETOE-BIRD(Dicaeum hirundinaceum)

Recorded from Fogg Dam, Howard River,Mica Beach, on the road to Jim Jim, in theNourlangie area and between Tennant Creekand the Devil's Marbles.

In 1964, it was seen on several occasionsin Darwin as well as at Holmes Jungle, FoggDam, and Berry Springs. It was also observed at Marrakai, EI Sherana, Mataranka,Larrimah and a single bird at Alice Springs.

In 1968 it 'was found singly and in pairsat Alice Springs, near Standley Chasm, nearSimpson Gap and at the 16 mile bore.

225. BLACK-HEADED PARDALOTE(Pardalotus melanocephalus)

Observed frequently in most areas that wepassed through north of Mataranka, including the Nourlangie area where it was plen-

tifuI. Nesting burrows in road-side cuts andsimilar sites were frequently noticed and ona number of occasions birds were seen leavinga burrow. The 1964 records show generallysimilar range for the species with WarlockPonds the southernmost sighting.

226. STRIATED PARDALOTE(Pardalotus substriatus)

Seen and heard on several occasions in andaround Alice Springs. It was found in thesame area in 1964.

In 1968 it was numerous in the AliceSprings area and was intermixed with birdsof the following species.

227. RED-BROWED PARDALOTE(Pardalotus rubricatus)

The distinctive call of this species drewour attention to four birds in a tree-linedcreek adjacent to the Devil's Marbles andtwo more were found by following up thecall in the gums along Barrow Creek.

In 1964 the only record was of one or twobirds calling from the gums on the ToddRiver, Alice Springs but the birds were notsighted.

Identification of this species in the fieldpurely on the basis of the red brow is unreliable. The Black-headed bird has a redbrow and in some specimens this feature isvery marked. On the other hand the callof rubricatus differs markedly from those ofall other pardalotes and is probably the mostreliable means of determining identity.

In 1968 it was very plentiful in the AliceSprings area in a wide variety of habitatsincluding mulga, acacia scrub and sand-hillvegetation as well as along gum creeks. Intermixed with P. substriatus and on severaloccasions both species were seen in the onetree.

228. YELLOW SILVEREYE{Zosterops lutea)

This brightly coloured bird (by comparisonwith other members of the genus) was foundin mangroves at Ludmilla Creek, in coastalscrub at Cameron Beach, in a few scatteredbushes at Vestey Beach and in monsoonforest at the Tropicus Nursery, Nightcliffe.In 1964, the only sightings were at LudmillaCreek and Cameron Beach.


229. WHITE-THROATED HONEYEATER (Melithreptus albogularis)

From Mataranka north to Darwin andeast to Nourlangie this was probably themost frequently sighted honeyeater. Itoccurred throughout the eucalypt forestareas as well as in the "tropical" growthalong watercourses such as the WaterhouseRiver, Mataranka and Death Adder Creek,Nourlangie.

In 1964, records show the same patternof distribution and habitat. On that occasion it was also found in the Plwntree-SouthAlligator area near El Sherana.

230. GOLDEN-BACKED HONEYEATER(Melithreptus laetior)

Two birds, observed at Leach's Lagoon,were the only sightings for the trip. In 1964the «.pecie«. was found between Dunmara andLarrimah (2 & 1) at Lake Woods (2) andbetween Pine Creek and Katherine (2).

In 1968 three were seen at OrmistonGorge.

The call of this bird is very similar to thatof the Black-chinned Honeyeater, M. gularis;however the bright golden-yellow on the backextending from the neck to the base of thetail, the negligible amount of black on thechin and the narrow circle of light brownskin around the eye, as opposed to the largerarea of blue skin on gularis, make it quitedistinctive in the field.

231. RED-HEADED HONEYEATER(Myzomela erythrocephala)

Recorded at Ludmilla Creek, TropicusNursery, Cameron Beach, East Point, MicaBeach and around Goose Camp. It wasfound nesting at Cameron Beach, EastPoint and Mica Beach. Although not confined to mangroves the species shows adefinite liking for such areas.

In 1964 it was found in similar situationsand in addition to the above (where visited)it was found at Dinah Beach and BerrySprings.

232. BANDED HONEYEATER(Myzomela pectoralis)

Observed at Pine Creek, Nourlangie area(fairly numerous) Mary River, Leach'sLagoon and between Larrimah and Dunmara (350 miles south of Darwin). In 1964,we found it in the Plumtree Creek area,

between Pine Creek and Katherine and onthe Waterhouse River at Mataranka.

233. BLACK HONEYEATER(Myzomela nigra)

Two pairs and a female were found inscattered acacia shrubs near the Devil'sMarbles.

234. DUSKY HONEYEATER(Myzomela obscura)

Recorded at Pine Creek where a pair werefeeding two fledgelings; Casuarina Beach,Tropicus Nursery, Fogg Dam, CameronBeach, at Howard River, on the road to JimJim, in the Nourlangie area, at the MaryRiver Crossing and on the Waterhouse River,Mataranka.

The 1964 sightings indicated a similardistribution and included Holmes Jungle,Berry Springs, Dinah Beach and LudmillaCreek.

235. WHITE-BREASTED HONEYEATER(Gliciphila fasciata)

This species was recorded at Mataranka,Fogg Dam, Koolpinyah, Nourlangie area andMary River Crossing (EI Sherana Road).In 1964, it was observed at Berry Springs,Darwin River, Ludmilla Creek, Manton Damand Plwntree Creek near EI Sherana.

The name White-breasted is most inappropriate and misleading. In a discussionbetween some members of our party it wasgenerally considered that Fasciated Honeyeater would be descriptive of the bird.

236. BROWN HONEYEATER(Gliciphila indisticta)

In the areas north of Dunmara this is avery widespread and numerous species.Except for the fact that it appears to beconfined largely to mangroves and thetimbered country along watercourses andaround swamps, etc., it was seen almost asfrequently as was the White-throated Honeyeater (Melithreptus albogularis}, Therewere few areas of suitable habitat that wevisited where the reed warbler-like call ofthis species was not heard.

It was similarly plentiful in 1964 when,however, it was found as far south as LakeWoods about 14 miles south-west of Elliott.Apart from this the range was about thesame as in 1967.


237. GREY HONEYEATER(Lacustroica whitei)

Not recorded in either 1964 or 1967 butin June 1968, a single bird was seen in apatch of mulga by the Gle? H~len Roada mile or two west of the Junction of theHermansburg Road. It was quietly movingthrough the foliage at a distance of somefifteen to twenty feet and its lack of distinctive features was its outstanding feature. Ihad not previously encountered the speciesand was hoping that it would call but bef?rethis could occur it was attacked and harnedout of site by a Singing Honeyeater (Meliphaga; virescens).

The literature on this species makes frequent reference to the habit of the speciesof associating with thornbills. There wereYellow-tailed Thornbills in the close vicinityon this occasion but it could not be said thatthis bird was associating with them.

238. RUFOUS.BANDED HONEYEATER(Conopophila albogularis)

Observed at Ludmilla Creek, Fogg Dam,Howard River, Mica Beach and in the Nourlangie area. The 1964 records were fromParap (Darwin), Humpty DOD, Koolpinyah,and Dinah Beach.

This is an animated, lively bird which israrely still for more than a few moments.Its habitat appears to be largely confined tomangroves, monsoon forest and similar typevegetation along watercourses.

239. RUFOUS~THROATED HONEYEATER (Conopophila rufogularis)

A bird of the open eucalypt forest countryand, occasionally, mangroves which wefound at Mica Beach, Mary River Crossingand Leach's Lagoon. In 1964 we observedit between Katherine and Pine Creek, on theSouth Alligator River near El Sherana, andat the Ferguson River.

240. WHITE-LINED HONEYEATER(Meliphaga albilineata)

A number of these were observed on andat the foot of the Arnhem Land Escarpmentsome 16 miles east of Nourlangie.

The sighting of this infrequently recordedspecies was most satisfactory even to thosefew of us who had seen it on previousoccasions. During the early part of the dayit was found in reasonable numbers feeding

on the scattered bunches of eucalypt blossomaround the foot and at the top of the scarp.At one time there were five in one tree onthe top, feeding in a small clump of blossom.

Later in the day several of them came todrink and bathe in a pool at the base of theescarpment and then perched at the top ofa nearby tree to preen their dampenedfeathers. This gave us the opportunity toobtain some better views of them. Whenfeeding, these birds are very active andmove so rapidly through the foliage that it isdifficult to obtain more than fleetingglimpses.

Field characteristics are the distinct whiteline below the eye extending to the ear, aciefinite yellow tinge on the outer edge ofthe primaries and some irregular longitudinalbrownish stripes on the greyish-white breast.The call, which was heard at intervalsduring the day, consists of a series of loud,clear whistles typical of the Meliphaga.

In 1964 was recorded at Plumtree Creeknear El Sherana,

241. SINGING HONEYEATER(Meliphaga. oirescens)

Observed fairly frequently in and aroundAlice Springs and at scattered places betweenthere and Dunmara. We also saw two birdsat Elsey Creek, where, due to the stony nature of some of the country, a more aridtype of scrub than that found in the surrounding areas has developed.

In 1964 we found it fairly evenly distributed from Alice Springs to around WarlockPonds and Mataranka where they werereasonable plentiful. Possibly the drier conditions of the interior had forced the birdsfurther north than usual. Fairly plentifulin the Alice Springs area in 1968.

242. GREY-HEADED HONEYEATER(Meliphaga keartlandi)

Was found to be fairly common on thesouthern slopes of Mt. Gillen at AliceSprings, and there were several at the Devil'sMarbles on the retu;n journey. In 1964, itwas observed at Alice Springs and at fivescattered places between Tennant Creek andElliott.. Fairly c.ommo:r; on sides and tops ofranges m the Alice Springs area in 1968 butrarely south of MacDonnell Ranges or inintervening flats.


243. YELLOW-FRONTED HONEYEATER (Meliphaga plumula)

Two birds on the Santa Teresa Road southof Alice Springs and several between Larrimah and Dunmara were the only definitesightings. One bird was reported from theOld Mataranka Homestead by one memberbut it is possible that it was the followingspecies.

In 1964 we recorded it from Alice Springsand between Dunmara and Larrimah. Itwas observed near Glen Helen and nearStandley Chasm in 1968 (two birds on eachoccasion).

244. YELLOW-TINTED HONEYEATER(Meliphaga flavescens)

The only sightings were at Warlock Ponds,Mataranka and Leach's Lagoon. They werepresent in considera:ble numbers at the firstmentioned place. In 1964 they were foundbetween Dunmara and Larrimah (verynumerous at the latter), Warlock ponds(numerous) and between Katherine andPine Creek.

245. WHITE-PLUMED HONEYEATER(Meliphaga. penicillata)

Recorded in small numbers usually in.gums along watercourses in the vicinity ofAlice Springs, including along the SantaTeresa Road between Aileron and TitreeWell, at Bar;ow Creek and at Elliott.

It was found at Alice Springs, Aileron,Newcastle Waters Creek and Lake Woodssouth-west of Elliott in 1964, and wasnumerous along all gum creeks in the AliceSprings area in 1968.

All birds seen were very yellow in generalplumage coloring. This was particularly sowith those from the northern end of therange where they were quite as yellow as thepreceding species.

246. WHITE-GAPED HONEYEATER(Stomiopera unicolor)

This species was evenly distributedthroughout suitable habitat in the countrynorth of Mataranka and Elsey Station andeast to the Nourlangie area, where it wasnumerous. In 1964 it was also noted atWarlock Ponds and in the EI Sherana area.

Usually found in mangroves, coastalscrubs, monsoon forest or watercourse vegetation and it was rarely that we visited any

of these types of habitat without hearing itsstrong penetrating calls. It is rather adominant type of bird which was frequentlyobserved hustling other species out of thetree in which it was feeding.

247. YELLOW-THROATED MINER(Myzantha flavigula)

Fairly plentiful around Alice Springs.Between Alice Springs and Pine Creek it wasseen in twos and threes at scattered intervals.It was also seen at Noonama:h. In 1964 thedistribution north to about Pine Creek wasgenerally similar. On that occasion howeverthe species was sighted at a number of placesnorth of there viz-Adelaide River, Coomalie Creek, Noonamah and Manton Dam.It was also found in the EI Sherana area.

It was very numerous in Alice Springsarea in 1968. Several nests were seen.

248. SPINY-CHECKED HONEYEATER(Acanthagenys rufogularis)

Occurred around Alice Springs and fromthere north to Wauchope in small numbersgenerally. The greatest number 12 to 15 inall, were seen on the Santa Teresa Road,south of Alice Springs. In 1964 it was foundin the Alice Springs area and also at LakeWoods (3) and between Banka Banka andTennant Creek. In 1968 it was observed insmall numbers in all parts visited in theAlice Springs area.

249. BLUE-FACED HONEYEATER(Entomyzon cyanotis)

All of the birds seen in both 1967 andin 1964 were of the race albipennis havinga white patch on the underside of the flightfeathers of each wing which is most conspicuous when the birds are in flight. In bothyears the most southerly sighting was atMataranka, where on each occasion therewas a flock of about 20. Other places atwhich they were recorded in 1967 were atParap (Darwin), Fogg Dam, Shoal BayPeninsula, Noonamah and Howard River.

In 1964, they were observed much morefrequently than in 1967 including at Coomalie Creek, Berry Springs, Koolpinyah,Manton Dam, on the EI Sherana Road andon the road to Humpty Doo,

At the last mentioned place there weresome fifteen to twenty of these birds bathingin a pool. They were perched on the top


of a tree some 25 feet high and situatedabout twenty yards from the pool. One ata time each bird launched itself from theperch and glided swiftly, steeply down untilit hit the water with a splash, -whichmomentarily obscured it, and then rose,wheeled and returned to the perch. Thereit shook the water from its feathers andpreened itself. We watched the performancefor some ten minutes during which time itwas repeated over and over again, and thewhite "window" under the wings was muchin evidence.

250. SILVER-CROWNED FRIARBIRD(Philemon argenticeps) .

Encountered throughout the "north end"above Warlock Ponds and the road to ElseyStation, including the Nourlangie area.

Generally in reasonable numbers but morenumerous in areas where trees were in flower.

Found in greater numbers in 1964, perhaps due to the heavy flowering of Eucalyptus miniata. Generally the distribution wassimilar, with Larrimah as the southern-mostoccurrence, and it included the EI Sheranaarea, where the species was very numerous.

251. LITTLE FRIARBIRD(Philemon citreogularis)

First observed at Elliott; other sightingswere at Mataranka, Leach's Lagoon, Tropicus Nursery (Nightcliff), Holmes Jungle,Mica Beach and in the Nourlangie area.Generally it was seen in small numbersranging from two to six or seven birds. Itwas more prevalent in the Nourlangie areathan elsewhere.

The only sighting in 1964 was of twobirds between Dunmara and Larrimah. Aswe did not encounter it again, we began todoubt our identification. However, in viewof our findings in 1967, it now seems likelythat it was correct;

252. PIPIT (Anthus australis)Observed in ones and twos at Alice Springs

and between there and Renner Springs in]967. Renner Springs was also the northernmost point at which it was seen in 1964.Fairly plentiful in the more open area aroundAlice Springs in 1968.

253. HORSFIELD BUSHLARK(Mirafra javanica)

One bird at Vestey Beach and two atWarlock Ponds were the only sightings. In

1964, it was seen on two occasions only viz.Koolpinyah (2) and Warlock Ponds (1).

254. ZEBRA FINCH(Taeniopygia castanotis)

Very numerous at and around AliceSprings and from there north to Elliott.Further north their numbers diminisheduntil we reached Dunmara, after whichnone was seen until we arrived there againon our return. Some members of our partyreported one of two birds at East Point,Darwin but it is considered that these couldhave been escapees.

At the 16 mile bore and at the waterfilled borrow pit about 44 miles north ofAlice Springs these birds were present inthousands and the ground under all thesurrounding trees and bushes was white fromthe dense accumulation of droppings. Inthe early morning and at evening it was anamazing sight. The bushes on the marginsof the waters were literally covered withbirds. No sooner would one group departthan its place would be contested by severalother flocks which had just arrived. Theactivity was tremendous and the sound oftheir calls filled the air with a continuoushum.

In 1964 these birds were generallynumerous between Alice Springs and Larrimah; and in some areas, where they hadaccess to water, they were very numerous.We also observed a few birds at Matarankaand at Elsey Station.

In 1968 flocks of up to 20 birds werefrequently seen in most parts around AliceSprings. At the waterfilled borrow pit 44miles north on the Stuart Highway however,they were in vast numbers. How many wasimpossible to estimate but it must have beenhundreds of thousands. The ground waswhite with droppings and the din of theircalls was such that it was a relief to leavethe area.

255. PAINTED FINCH (Emblema picta)This species was either seen or heard in

most of the rough stony hillside areas visitedin the Alice Springs area. It was also seenat the Devil's Marbles, two pairs on the outward journey and up to a dozen birds onthe return, and near Churchill's. Head


between Tennant Creek and Banka Banka(5) .

In 1964, we encountered a flock of from15 to 20 birds near Churchill's Head. In1968 was plentiful around Alice Springsbeing seen at Trephina Gorge, StandleyChasm, Simpson Gap, Glen Helen, OrmistonGorge, Serpentine Gorge and on theSouthern slopes of Mt. Gillen.

256. BLACK~RINGED FINCH(Steganopleura annulosa)

The first and the last sightings of this birdboth on this occasion and in 1964, was atDunmara. In fact on each occasion theywere located at the identical spot viz. drinking from a small leak in an overhead tank.They occurred throughout the area northof this in practically every place visited. Thisincluded the Nourlangie area and, in 1964,the EI Sherana area.

Generally the birds were in small flocksranging from ten to twenty birds and thesewere fairly evenly distributed along or adjacent to the majority of the watercourses,lagoons or swamps examined.

All birds seen had black rumps. Particularly attention was paid to this feature especially in the area from Pine Creek to Dunmara but on no occasion was a bird seenthat had even a suggestion of white on therump.

257. CHESTNIJT-BREASTED FINCH'(Donacola castaneothorax)

A flock of about 40 birds adjacent to thebeach at the northern end of Gregory Street,Darwin (Vestey Beach) and a small flock(10-15) at the Mary River between Goodparla and Pine Creek. In 1964, a flock ofsome 40 to 50 birds was found close toDoctor's Beach, Darwin.

258. YELLOW-TAILED FINCH(Donacola flaviprymna)

Four finches were seen by the writer drinking at a creek some 20 miles north of thejunction of the EI Sherana and the Goodparla Roads. At least two of them hadyellow rumps and none had chestnut on thebreast. They were about 25 yards awayand the rump color of the other two couldnot be seen. Having in mind the similarityof this species with the immature of D. casta-

neothorax an endeavour was made to obtaina closer view but the birds took flight beforethis could be achieved.

Examination of cage-birds of both speciessince returning to Adelaide has strengthenedthe impression that the birds seen were flaviprymna but the sighting must be regardedwith some doubt.

259. PICTORELLA FINCH(Donacola pectoralis)

A flock of ten or twelve at Coomalie Creekwas the only record of this species for thetrip. Not recorded in 1964.

260. STAR FINCH (Bathilda ruficauda)Three birds alighted in a Pandanus within

a few feet of the writer at the Mary RiverCrossing on the Pine Creek-EI Sherana Roadand remained in full view for two or threeminutes before flying off down-stream. Oneof the birds appeared to be immature.

261. CRIMSON FINCH(Neochmia phaeton)

Found only in Pandanus close to waterand recorded from Coomalie Creek, FoggDam, Nourlangie, Mary River Crossing andWaterhouse River, Mataranka. In 1964 itwas found in the same habitat at each of theabove places, excluding Nourlangie whichwas not visited on that occasion, and at'Holmes jungle, Manton Dam, PlumtreeCreek and Ferguson River.

262. LONG-TAILED FINCH(Poephila acuticauda)

Recorded from Leach's Lagoon, at twoplaces between Katherine and Pine Creek,Fogg Dam, Nourlangie area, Mary RiverCrossing, Warlock Ponds and at the junctionof the Stuart Highway and the Roper BarRoad.

In 1964, it was first sighted at Larrimah,where it was numerous and at WarlockPonds, Mataranka, Pine Creek, Katherine,EI Sherana area, Hayes Creek, Marrakai,Fogg Dam and Beatrice Lagoon. All birdsseen were of the red-beaked form.

263. MASKED FINCH(Poephila personata)

Observed between Katherine and PineCreek, Fogg Dam, Nourlangie area, near


Goodparla, Mary River Crossing, WarlockPonds, Leach's Lagoon and at the junctionof the Stuart Highway and the Roper BarRoad near Mataranka. The 1964 sightingscovered a similar area and included Koolpinyah and the Pine Creek-El Sherana area.

264. GOULDIAN FINCH(Poephila gouldiae]

These were seen at Leach's Lagoon, at apoint between Katherine and Pine Creek,Warlock Ponds and at the junction of theStuart Highway and the Roper Bar Road.On each occasion male, female and immaturebirds of both the black-headed and the redheaded forms were present with the blackheads in the majority.

In 1964 was observed between WarlockPonds and Mataranka, at Hayes Creek andbetween Pine Creek and EI Sherana. TheHayes Creek flock (about 15) were all blackheaded but the others all included bothforms.

265. OLIVE-BACKED ORIOLE(Oriolus sagittatus)

Recorded from Mataranka Homestead,Rapid Creek, Ludmilla Creek, Koolpinyahand in the Nourlangie area in open forest,coastal scrub and monsoon forest, usuallysingle or in pairs. In 1964 it was foundin various parts in and around Darwin, aswell as at Koolpinyah, Shoal Bay Peninsula,Manton Dam and Mataranka.

Generally this bird was less numerous thanthe following species.

266. YELLOW ORIOLE(Oriolus flavocinctus)

The liquid calls of this species are a featureof the scrub and brush lands as well as mangroves of many parts of the "top end." Itwas observed at Casuarina Beach, Fogg Dam,Shoal Bay Peninsula, Holmes Jungle, Koolpinyah, Howard River, East Point and in theNourlangie area as well as at various pointswhen travelling to and from these places.

In 1964, it was also fairly plentiful andwas recorded from several of the above localities and also at Marrakai and BerrySprings. A pair were being watched in theDarwin Botanic Gardens when an Olivebacked Oriole flew into the tree in whichthey were perched. The yellow birds immediately commenced to harass the newcomerand quickly chased it out of the area.

267. SPANGLED DRONGO(Chibia bracteata)

A bird of the mangroves, coastal andwatercourse vegetation, monsoon forest andnearby areas of open forest where its raucouscalls quickly draw attention to it. We foundit in various parts of Darwin and in the scrubadjacent to the local beaches. The gardenof the Fanny Bay Hotel appeared to have aparticular attraction for 'them for there werefour or five present each time we passed. Inaddition we found the species at Fogg Dam,Shoal Bay Peninsula, Howard River, MicaBeach and in the Nourlangie area.

In 1964, as well as in the Darwin area werecorded it at Berry Springs, near Marrakaiin bamboos along a watercourse, at theMary River Crossing and on the South Alligator near EI Sherana.

268. APOSTLE BIRD (Struthidea cinerea)Four were observed near Elsey Homestead

and a party of nine at Elliott. In 1964, aparty of from 20 to 30 were in mulga scrubadjoining a lagoon on Newcastle WatersCreek; we also saw five at Mataranka, twelveat Elsey Lagoon and about a dozen betweenLarrimah and Daly Waters.

269. WESTERN BOWERBIRD(Chlamydera guttata)

Four or five were present at the OldOverland Telegraph Station, beside thespring after which Alice Springs was named.We saw them on two occasions and eachtime they were found feeding on a nativefig on a cliff face above the spring or indate palms growing in the nearby gardenof the Telegraph Station.

Not seen in 1964 but in 1968 one wasseen at the Old Telegraph Station, threenear Pine Gap and two near StandleyChasm. The bird at the Telegraph Stationwhen startled, clearly displayed both lilacplumes.

270. GREAT BOWERBIRD(Chlamydera nuchalis)

This species was encountered frequentlythroughout most of the area covered by theparty north of Dunmara. This included theNourlangie area. A similar distribution,with Dunmara as the southern-most sighting,was experienced in 1964, on which occasionthe bird was found also in the South Alligator-El Sherana area.

In the course of the two trips four active


bowers were found. The first (1964),within a few yards of the bitumen, wasalongside the 185 mile post south of Darwin.Its orientation was between 20° and 25° andthe bottom of the interior was covered withbroken windscreen glass collected from a pileof this material a few yards distant. At themore southerly entrance were a large numberof bleached snail shells, a few small whitebones and some whitish stones, while at thenortherly entrance which was under a smallbush there were four snail shells only. Atthe southerly end there were also four greenfruits, type unidentified, about half to threequarters of an inch in diameter.

The second bower found in 1964 wasnear Elsey Station. This was orientated atapproximately 22° and the northernmost endwas also under a shrub. However this onehad a large collection of snails shells andbones at each end but there was no displaymaterial within the bower. Nor was thereany fruit or other coloured material.

The first bower found in 1967, was in thegarden of the Old Mataranka Homestead.The second was at Noonamah, a couple ofhundred yards from the motel. The orientation was approximately 24° and the southernmost entrance was under a shrub and wasfronted by a small circular area of whitestones and bones with a few small piecesof green glass. At the opposite end was alarge circular area of snail shells and bones,some pieces of green glass and about halfa dozen small green lemons, half to threequarters of an inch in length, purloinedfrom the motel garden.

The coloured material, glass and lemons,was all placed either to the left or right ofthe entrance. The "pathway" across thecircle of display material consisted only ofwhite material unrelieved by any pieces ofcoloured material.

Two feet away on the western side was anolder bower built with the same orientationas the current one and seven yards furtherwest was an even older one. The latter,which was in an advanced stage of disintegration, differed from all other bowers seenin that, the chamber alignment wasapproximately 50°.

The other bower found in 1967 was undera large drooping shrub in the garden of theOld Mataranka Homestead. The shrubformed a complete canopy over the bowerand one had to push the drooping branches

in order to see it. No details of orientationand of display material were recorded otherthan the fact that there were large quantities of bleached snail shells and bones ateach entrance.

271. AUSTRALIAN CROW(Corvus cecilae)

On the 1967 excursion and in 1964, thisspecies was found throughout the areas covered including Nourlangie (1967) and EISherana (1964) with the exception of in theDarwin area north of Noonamah. It wasobserved between the latter place andHumpty Doo and at Koolpinyah on bothoccasions and as the latter is situated northeast of Darwin it would appear that population density could be the restricting factorwithin Darwin itself. The bird was alsofound at Mica Beach on the western sideof Darwin Harbor.

Dead birds on the road were examineden each trip and on each occasion the basesvf the feathers at the back of the neck werewhite.

From Alice Springs north to Matarankathey were generally numerous but north ofthere the numbers decreased although attimes groups of a dozen or more were seen.

272. LITTLE CROW (Corvus bennetti)A significant proportion of the Corvidae

observed at Alice Springs and in the immediate vicinity (up to about 20 mile radius)were considered to be this species. Identification was based mainly on the calls but inseme instances, when this species and (C.cecilae) were in close proximity, there appeared to be a difference in size.

Without the aid of collected specimenssight differentiation between the two speciesis uncertain and for this reason the mostthat could be said of our observations isthat we were reasonably confident that bothwere present but in what proportions is impossible to gauge.

A similar situation was found in 1968.

273. PIED BUTCHERBIRD(Cracticus nigrogularis)

This species was found throughout thewhole of the area covered from Alice Springstv Darwin and east to Nourlangie. Itshabitat ranges from the arid scrubs of thecentre to the tropical open forests of thenorth. It does not frequent the interiorsof mangroves or monsoon forests but does


at times occur on the outer fringes of thesetypes of vegetation.

We encountered this bird throughout thesame range in 1964 also. In fact thesouthernmost observation was from the trainat Finke and we saw it at several otherplaces between there and Alice Springs. Onthat occasion we also recorded it from theEl Sherana area. In 1968 it was scatteredthroughout the Alice Springs area and wasseen from the train from Alice Springs southto the South Australian border.

274. BLACK BUTCHERBIRD(Cracticus quoyi)

We found this bird in the mangroves atLudmilla Creek on two occasions and in amangrove-lined creek intersecting the monsoon forest behind the Tropicus Nursery,Darwin. Some of us were at Ludmilla before breakfast one morning and saw andheard several of them at their morningcarols. There were at least four and possible five or six present. The calls, some ofwhich are not unlike those of the Pied Currawong, (Strepera graculina), were loudand melodious and in the heavy morningair it was a memorable experience.

In 1964, we saw two birds in mangroveson the Shoal Bay Peninsula.

All birds seen on either trip were theblack phase.

275. GREY BUTCHERBIRD(Cracticus torquatus)

One bird was seen and heard on TheCommon at Alice Springs. Not observed in1964 but in 1968 it was seen on the DeepWell Road, on the road to Trephina Gorge,near the Stuart Highway 42 miles north ofAlice Springs and on the Koolgera Road.There was only one bird on the TrephinaRoad but on each of the other occasionsthere were two.

276. SILVER-BACKED BUTCHERBIRD(Cracticus argenteus)

This species was encountered betweenKatherine and Pine Creek and on severaloccasions between there and CoomalieCreek. We also observed it on the road toHumpty Doo, at Knuckey's Lagoon, Koolpinyah and at Warlock Ponds. In 1964,the first sighting was between Larrimah andWarlock Ponds and in addition it was seenat Holmes Jungle, Berry Springs, Shoal Bay

Peninsula and on the road to EI Sherana aswell as in some of the areas where we sawit in 1967.

It has frequently been stated that argenteus is intermediate between torquatus andnigrogularis but in the writer's opinion thisis not so. C. nigrogularis occurs throughoutt~e .range of argenteus and the latter is quitedistinct from adults of the former in bothsize and plumage as well as in call. It ispossible to mistake an immature nigrogularisat first glance, for argenteus but the similarity is only superficial and a reasonablyclose examination quickly reveals the trueidentity.

On the other hand the differences betweenargenteus and torquatus are much less prominent. There is a difference in the calls.The former is far less accomplished than thesouthern bird, having a much more limitedrange of calls and, in our experience, itcalls far less frequently. The northern birdsare white on the under-parts from the chintCJ the tail and their backs are generallybrighter in color and the markings are moreclearly defined. However the general pattern of the plumage of both is similar andin size they appear the same. C. torquatusoccurs around Alice Springs to about 50miles north and there is a wide gap betweenthis northern limit of its range and Katherinethe approximate southern limit of argenteus.C. nigrogularis also occurs around AliceSprings, (and many hundreds of miles furthersouth) and it also extends from therethroughout the area separating the othertwo and throughout the area occupied byargenteus. It would therefore appear that,on the basis of distribution and field characteristics, 'the Silver-backed would be moreproperly treated as a close relative of theGrey than as an intermediate between thatand the Pied.

277. WHITE-BACKED MAGPIE(Gymnorhina hypoleuca)

A single bird was seen on the Santa TeresaRoad, some twenty miles south of AliceSprings in 1967. In 1968 one recorded atthe Old Telegraph station and two betweenAlice Springs and Trephina Gorge.

278. BLACK-BACKED MAGPIE(Gymnorhina tibicen.)

Fairly evenly distributed around AliceSprings and from there north to Renner


Springs; but it was not seen north of thereon the northward journey. However, on .thereturn trip it was observed at three pointabetween Katherine and Mataranka. Thenorthern-most point was 274 miles south ofDarwin (2 birds) while single birds were seenat 267 miles and 282 miles south. A familyparty of two adults and one immature wereseen near Mataranka and two adults betweenthere and Larrimah,

In 1964 we saw it from the train fromjust north' of S.A.-N. Territory border. toAlice Springs and from there nort!; to EPlOttit was observed at scattered points eithersingly or in two and threes. Only ~~o sightings were made north of Elliott-c-onebetween Newcastle Waters Creek and Dunm:a:ca. and one between Mataranka andKatherine.

Plentiful in Alice Springs area in 1968.

19672-7-67

to4-7-675-7-676-7-677-7-679-7-67

10-7-6711-7-67

12-7-6713-7-6714-7-67

15-7-67to17-7-6718-7-67

19-7-6720-7-67

21-7-6722-7-6723-7-67

In and around Alice Springs.

Alice Springs to Tennant Creek.Tennant Creek to Mataranka,Mataranka to Darwin.Fogg Dam.Shoal Bay Peninsula; Cameron Beach.Holmes Jungle, East Point, CasuarinaBeach, Noonamah.Koolpinyah.Mica Beach (by launch).Darwin to Nourlangie via Marrakai andJim Jim.

At Nourlangie,

Nourlangie to Mataranka via Goodparlaand Pine Creek.At Mataranka and Warlock Ponds.At Mataranka, Leach's Lagoon andElsey Station.Mataranka to Tennant Creek.Tennant Creek to Alice Springs.Departed Alice Springs for Adelaide.

ITINERARY OF EXCURSIONS

RECENT PAPERS ON NORTHERNTERRITORY BIRDS.

Attention is drawn to the following:Parker, S.A., 1969. New and interesting

records of Central Australian birds. S. Aust.Orn., 25: 59-71.----, 1970: Critical notes on the statusof some Northern Territory birds. S. Aust.Orn., 25: 115-125.

196421-7-64 Arrived at Alice Springs by train.22-7-64 Alice Springs to Renner Springs.23-7-64 Renner Springs to Mataranka,24-7-64 Mataranka to Darwin.25-7-64 Holmes Jungle, Knuckey's Lagoon.26-7-64 Humpty Doo, Fogg Dam, Beatrice

Lagoon.28-7-64 Berry Spring, Darwin River.29-7-64 Koolpinyah.30-7-64 Ludmilla Creek, Lee Point, Botanic

Garden, Dinah Beach.31-7-64 Shoal Bay Peninsula, Cameron Beach.1-8-64 Darwin to Pine Creek via Marrakai,2-8-64 Pine Creek to EI Sherana and return.3-8-64 Pine Creek to EI Sherana and return.4-8-64 Pine Creek to Mataranka.5-8-64 At Mataranka-Waterhouse River, Elsey

Station.6-8-64 Mataranka to Renner Springs via Lake

Woods.7-8-64 Renner Springs to Alice Springs.8-8-64 At Alice Springs.9-8-64 Depart Alice Springs by train.

Personnel: A. H. Lendon, F. H. Collison, the lateD. G. Thomas, and C. E. Rix, all of Adelaide,South Australia.

Personnel:South Australia:

J. M. Bonnin, Mrs. G. Laybourne-Smith, A. H.Lendon, C. E. Rix, Miss D. Roads.

Victoria:G. and Mrs. Binns, B. A. and Mrs. Blair, MissG. Bowker, Mrs. D. Bryant, Mrs. W. Denny,S. and Mrs. Lawrence, D. and Mrs. McQueen,H. R. Officer, J. L. Rogan, A. D. Selby, Misst, M. Watson.

New South Wales:G. E. and Mrs. Dibley, H. and Mrs. Goldstein,Miss D. Stenhouse, Miss M. Talbot.

Tasmania:Mrs. B. N. Angel, Miss C. H. Mosey, Mrs. T.Stephens.

New Zealand.Dr. E. Gibbons, Miss A. Hutson.

New Guinea:Mr. R. Donaghey.

Queensland:Mrs. Williams.

United States of America:K. and Mrs. Batchelder.

196822-6-68 At Alice Springs.23-6-68 Old Telegraph Station, 16 mile bore,

Simpson Gap.24-6-68 Sewage Works, Deep Well.25-6-68 Trephina Gorge, Ross River.

26-6-68 Standley Chasm.27-6-68 Stuart Highway to 50 miles north.28-6-68 Koolgera Road, Pine Gap Road and

Emily Gap Road.29-6-68 Glen Helen, Ormiston Gorge, Serpentine

Gorge.

Personnel: C. E. and Mrs. Rix.

Manuscript received 6th April, 1970.

T HE SA ORN IT HO LOG IST Plat e 1

Fig. I. Plumed Pigeon [ Lo pho ph a ps plu mij era ),

Fig. 2. C hes tnut-q uilled Rock Pigeon [Pe t ro phassa rufi pc n nis),

Plat e 2 THE S.A. O RN ITHOLOG IST

Fig. 3. Burd ekin Du ck { T'adorn a rad jah ) .

I

Fig. 4. Letter-winged K ite ( Elan us sc riptus) ,

THE S.A. O RN ITHOLOG IST Pla te :3

Fig. 5. Grey-hea ded Honeyeat er (}vl eliphaga keartlandi) .

Fig. 6. Grea t Bower Bird [C hlam vde ra nu chatis) ,

Plat e 4 THE SA ORNITHOLOGIST

Fig. 7. Long-t ailed Finch ( Poe phila acu ticauda},

Fig. 8. Ma sked Finch ( Poe phil o pcrso nata),

Plate 5 THE SA ORNITHOLOGIST 191

---<::::

~'-"0<::::-,

~.~-0::

0::'-

~c~

/ E'-'...c:...c

ZC

: r.~

BIRDS OF THE NORTHERNTERRITORYby C. E: RIX

(S. Aust. Om. 25, 1970, 145-192)

ERRATApage 153delete 29 GULL-BILLED TERN, insert29. GULL-BILLED TERN

(Gelochelidon nilotica)The only observation was at Cameron

Beach, where two or three were quarteringthe tidal flats. In 1964 the species was seenin the same area and also at Lee Point.29a. CASPIAN TERN

(Hydroprogne caspia)Three were flying back and forth over

the exposed tidal flats at Cameron Beach.In 1964 single birds were seen at Lee Pointand at East Point and two at Lake Woods(south-west of Elliott).

page 178213. LAVENDER-FLANKED WRENshould be M alurus dulcisnot Malurusamabilis

Documents

THE S.A. ORNITHOLOGIST BIRDS OF THE NORTHERN TERRITORY · THE S.A. ORNITHOLOGIST BIRDS OF THE NORTHERN TERRITORY by C. E. RIX* 147' Basically this is the record of the 1967 R.A.O.U