Grey-headed Albatross & Falcons in CHCH

[andrewcrossland]

Just reporting a few recent sightings

NZ Falcons reported by Phil Crutchley from Victoria Park (Cashmere, Port Hills) yesterday, and another being mobbed by passerines in the CHCH Botanic Gardens by Robbie Hewson a few days ago. These come after reports of at least 2 in the hills above Akaroa and at least 1 on the CHCH Port Hills.

A Grey-headed Albatross floated ashore at Sumner Beach last night and rescued by locals. DoC rangers took it into care and its now with bird rescuers. Hopefully it survives. A rara avis indeed in Christchurch.

Few Cirl Buntings have been seen this autumn - the only ones I know of are a pair at Victoria Park. The resident Rosella(s) were seen at Victoria Park today.

The recent flooding has creatred ephemeral wetlands all around the outskirts of the city. 1500+ Grey Teal and 70+ Pied Stilts this week were high counts for Hendersons Basin (an ephemeral ponding area in the Hendersons Rd-Sparks Rd area between Halswell and Hoon Hay. More surprising though was a single Variable Oystercatcher - a long way inland and a new record for the site.

The shingle/sand islands on the Waimakariri River downstream of the Main Road Bridge have supported good bird numbers lately. At high tide, birds using the lower, tidal part of the river, roost there, and at low tride many feed. Counts have regularly included 50-90 Banded Dotterel, up to 40 Black-billed Gull, up to 30 Black-fronted Tern and even surprises like Spotted Shag (unusal on a braided river).


cheers

AC

[Davidthomas]

Would love to know when the Grey-headed albatross is going to be released if it makes it, would be fantastic to see it.

[Uncia]

Do you know more about the Rosella's at Victoria Park, I had no idea they were around there. Where would a good spot to stake out.