Eynesbury Environment Group welcomed a “record” number of participants to its most recent bird walk, many of whom had not been in the bush before, according to the group’s Daryl Akers.
The walk, led by Mr Akers and fellow environment group member Lorraine Jolly, toured the Eynesbury Woodland.
Mr Akers said participants came from Eynesbury, local suburbs and further afield, all to go bird watching in the bush.
He said the woodland provides refuge to many birds and animals, such as mature Grey Box eucalyptus trees provide important habitat for hollow dwelling birds and mammals, as well as nesting birds, including
He said that during the walk, he noticed that almost every tree hollow appeared to have birds nesting in them, especially Galahs, Tree Martins and Brown Treecreepers.
“Wood Ducks were also investigating hollows,” he said.
“We saw several Dusky Woodswallows that appeared to be nesting also. These birds migrate from warmer areas, arriving in Melton usually in October. They breed here then return to their winter quarters in warmer climes.
“Curiously the only bird of prey sighted was a single Black Kite.”
He said overall, the group saw 32 native bird species in the bush and by the lake.
Mr Akers said 180 bird species have been found in Eynesbury Forest to date
The group’s next bird walk – and last for 2025– will be on Saturday 15 November in Long Forest Mallee. Meet in the reserve carpark opposite Sundew Avenue at 9am.
Details: eynesbury.environment.group@gmail.com
