Rainbow Lorikeet, Australia
Some of the world’s most colorful birds live in Australia, a continent boasting over 800 bird species.
For anyone new to this curious land–whether they’re a birder or not–seeing brightly-colored parrots and birds as big as humans is a fun adventure.
This week I present a two-part series on the birds of Australia, highlighting photos and anecdotes of some of my favorite birds.
Sulphur-crested Cockatoo
Here is a list of Australia’s birds, impressive with so many exotic species.
Do I have a favorite? Oh yes.
My favorite Australian bird siting: the southern cassowary.
Southern Cassowary, male, Australia
Listed as threatened and declining, this was a true thrill. The bird was taller and heavier than me, and took an aggressive approach when we unknowingly came close to what we suspected was his nest.
Never have I been so threatened by a bird.
Emu greets us at Mareeba Wetlands
You can read about it here: cassowary and bowerbirds.
As an American where we have no native parrots, I can never get enough of the parrots, parakeets, and cockatoos in Australia.
It seemed the sky was an endless kaleisdoscope.
Blue-winged Kookaburra, Queensland, Australia
Crimson Rosella, Australia
Previously posted stories on parrot-like species: the crimson rosella, rainbow lorikeet, and gang-gang cockatoo.
Look for more bird stories and photos this Friday. I hope you have a great week full of living color, my friends~~
Tawny Frogmouth, Granite Gorge, Australia
All photos taken by Athena Alexander.
For more wildlife adventures in Australia, here’s a mystery novel I recommend–lively with bird and wildlife scenes.
Click here to buy e-book Wicked Walkabout – $4.99