I was prowling around the entrance to the Phillip Island Penguin Parade trying to get a second look at some Purple Swamphen babies when a White-browed Scrubwren landed nearby and scolded me heartily.
White-browed Scrubwren (Sericornis frontalis)
White-browed Scrubwren (Sericornis frontalis)
It was hard to take it seriously when its feathers were fluffed up by a tailwind; I laughed aloud at the sight of it.
White-browed Scrubwren
White-browed Scrubwren
I took the above image later in the afternoon and was just moving slightly to make the background more uniform when the little darling flew away. I really like the lighting in this image especially as I rarely see White-browed Scrubwrens in the sunlight, they are usually foraging at or near ground level. Scrubwrens are tiny birds, only 12cm and 12g, and they are constantly on the move so seeing them at all is a pleasure.
Cape Barren Goose (Cereopsis novaehollandiae) – juvenile
While I was busy photographing the scrubwrens a family group of Cape Barren Geese was busy watching me. I took images of them bathing in a puddle but especially liked the angelic pose of this juvenile as it stretched its wings.
Happy birding, Kim
Found this blog when investigating the white browed scrubwren. I found one without the eyebrow, so I assume it is a juvenile. What a bonus to view your lovely shots!
Hi Linda, I’m glad you enjoyed your visit! Your bird could be a juvenile, or depending where you are it could be worth checking the Large-billed Scrubwren.
Beautiful
Aw, this lovely comment just popped up! Thank you Diana 🙂
Hello Kim I came across your site the other day via Birdlife Australia’s website. Your pictures are absolutely delightful and I also much enjoy how you write
I’m glad that you enjoyed your visit, thank you so much for letting me know 🙂
I love the indignation you have captured. Spoken language not necessary. At all.
Indignation is the perfect word for the scrubwren! You never know what you’re going to see next with nature, I love it.
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Is the Cape Barren Goose a native to Australia? or an import?
It’s a native bird Frank. Found mainly on a few offshore islands in parts of southern Australia. They are one of the world’s rarest geese. I have some gosling and parent images that I will post one day.
These are beautiful Kim! How fortunate that the Scrubwren was up off the ground and at eye level!
You’re so right Mia, it’s lovely to get a face-to-face moment. I’m glad you like them, I wish I’d had the chance to move a little for the one with the best lighting, maybe next time 🙂