The weather forecast was not that good, so I though an urban walk may be suitable, so decided to catch the ferry to Watsons Bay and then walk south from The Gap and see what birds and whales were out and what the coastal scenery was like.
As it turned out, I saw no whales close to the shore, but I did see quite a few birds- including a fair while watching a Nankeen Kestrel hunting for food.
I started at the Bluff Lookout above The Gap. After a scan for whales I looked around for birds and spotted an Eastern Spinebill – but it was too elusive to photograph. There were some of the more common New Holland Honeyeaters, Silvereyes and Wattlebirds around.
I continued south along the Coastal Path. It was at Christason Park that I spotted the Nankeen Kestrel. It was perched on one of the goal posts. I was able to get fairly close to it – and then could wait for it to take off.
It would then fly off and grab some small creature in the grass. It would then fly back to the same or another of the goal posts and repeat this. So I was able to get more take off and landing sequences.
I spent a fair while watching and photographing the Kestrel. I am not sure what its prey was – they looked like small black things – perhaps beetles?
As well, there was a Willy Wagtail doing its own hunting.
It was now time to move off. I visited the Grumpy Baker for a coffee and an early lunch, and then continued my walk. I dint see much at Diamond Bay, so kept going.
At Rodney Reserve I was on the lookout for Peregrine Falcons but didn’t spot any. I spent some time photographing a Welcome Swallow swooping around. I thought it was hunting a moth – but it seemed to catch it, then release it, and catch it again. Perhaps it was playing or practising?
It was not starting to rain a bit more – so time to catch a bus to Bondi Junction Station.
Beautiful shots David! I saw a kestrel hovering over the cliffs at the same park more than seven years ago. I hope they continue to thrive there.