Long Reef has certainly been the best location in Sydney to observe and photograph Ospreys lately. But this visit – theOspreys although present were very quiet. There was no fishing.
When I arrived, I spotted an Osprey perched on the southern side of the headland.
And a Nankeen Kestrel was hovering nearby, scanning the ground below for prey.
On my previous visit, I had noticed two large “No Dogs” on the rock platform or beach signs had been removed by vandals. There were three remaining signs – but they were all quite small. So I took a photograph and reported the loss using the “Snap Send Solve” app – to the Council. So I was pleased to see a new sign had been installed.
Long Reef is an Aquatic Reserve and there is strictly a “No Dogs” policy, and you enter from the lookout through a gate. It seems that some of the local dog owners think they have a right to take their dogs anywhere they like. Dogs on the platform could harm some of the birdlife, including the migratory birds that depend on the rock platform for food during their visit. Some of these birds over-winter on the platform. A few years ago, one dog owner was heavily fined when their dog attacked a seal resting on the rock platform. And in present times with dead birds infected with Bird Flu being found on the rock platform you would be best to keep a pet well away.
One on the lower level, I spotted a White Bellied Sea Eagle on the island.
The tide was high during my visit.
An Osprey was perched the south side –
The White Belled Sea Eagle left the island and flew towards the Headland.
It was being pursued by an Osprey –
Later, another White Bellied Sea Eagle appeared and flew out to sea.
Crested Terns
No Osprey fishing activity, but this Magpie did catch something –
With no activity, I did leave a bit early.
At the lookout, two Nankeen Kestrels were hunting –
Anda passing Osprey –
And a few last photos of one of the Nankeen Kestrels –
