More Raptors at the Northern Beaches – 11 June 2021

I spent another interesting day photographing the raptors on the Northern Beaches. Like the previous trip, I visited a number of sites – ending up at Long Reef.

First at the sea cliffs, I was on the lookout for Peregrine Falcons. I didn’t see any at first, but I did see a distant raptor. From its hovering, I thought it was a Nankeen Kestrel. I walked along the coastal path to close to where I thought it was, but could not spot it. I did photograph a Crested Tern diving for a fish (unsuccessfully) –

Nearby was a New Holland Honeyeater –

Three Pelicans flew past –

I saw two distant Ospreys flying for height in the thermals.

Then the Nankeen Kestrel appeared. It was hovering while scanning the ground for prey.

I walked back to where I often see the Peregrine Falcons. This time, I spotted two. One flew past a few times –

Then it was time to move off. I wanted to be at Long Reef for the low tide. When I arrived, I sat up on the lookout and had lunch while keeping an eye out for whales and birds.

I spotted an Osprey curling around.

I later saw it perched in shallow water on the rock platform. I walked down and got as close as I could without getting my feet wet or disturbing the bird.

I thought with its feet in the cold water, it would soon take off. I was ready, but it took about half an hour before it flew away.

It did make a few very short flights.

Now for the proper take-off –

After it flew away, I did spot a White-bellied Sea Eagle. It was also looking for fish.

And one last photo – a Sooty Tern.

Another good day of bird photography.