Another nice day spent in Royal National Park. Digi Dave and myself organised a day, stating with some photography at Audley, and then when it got too hot – we would head to some entry pools for a swim.
At Audley, we started looking for birds, but it was the colourful Dragonflies that captured our attention first.
Then we spotted a Pacific Black Duck with a small duckling. The duckling was very curious and wanted to explore its environment. Its parent closely supervised.
One of the nearby Yellow-tailed Cockatoos seemed to enjoy watching the duckling.
I also saw a pair of Dollar Birds. They remained high in the trees however and were difficult to photograph.
We then headed upstream into the rainforest. I could hear a Kingfisher, but could not mange to spot it. I did however photograph a nice Golden Whistler, either a juvenile or female.
And then I spotted another bird, that was new to me. I had to ask online its identity, it turned out to be a Green Catbird.
Here is another small bird, which I think is a White-browed Scrubwren –
It was then time to head off and find a swimming hole. But as were packing our gear, we saw a nice goanna (Lace Monitor) –
We then headed to Crystal Brook, and to the first of the Crystal Pools. This is a beautiful clear swimming hole. Only small but very nice – and the water was the perfect temperature. Two other visitors were also enjoying the pool.
Near the pool were some shady caves and ledges – a good place for lunch.
After leaving the pool, I spotted a nice Horned Orchid.
We were both keen to check out another of the Crystal Pools. This one is called the Rangers Pool, and is also only a short walk. More enjoyable swimming.
Then it was time to head home. It had been a very pleasant day.