Laratinga Wetlands, Mt Barker, South Australia
No Comments »25th January, 2011; Category: Birders, Favourite Birding Spots, Good Birding Sites, Waterbirds
Laratinga Wetland, Mt Barker, South Australia
Over recent days I’ve featured some of the birds that can be seen at the Laratinga Wetland. This area has become one of my favourite birding spots. This wetland is situated on the eastern edge of Mt Barker in the Adelaide Hills, about a half hour drive from the city centre. It is a similar distance from my home.
The wetland area was established in 1999 to treat waste water from the growing town. The wetland was established, along with the planting of many local species of plants until now it is an excellent educational and recreational facility. The treated water is used for irrigation nearby. Walking tracks surround each of the ponds and these are used daily by hundreds of walkers, cyclists and birders. The tracks are linked to the town centre by a walking trail. Several hides cater for birders and there are numerous vantage points for viewing the birdlife, including some seats for the weary.
I have included below a photo of an interpretive sign which includes maps of the ponds. Click on the image to enlarge.
Laratinga Wetland, Mt Barker, South Australia
Laratinga Wetland, Mt Barker, South Australia
Guest speaker about Australian birds
White-headed Pigeon
Last week I had the privilege of talking about Australian birds to two community groups here in Murray Bridge, South Australia.
At the first meeting, a church group, I had an audience of eight. Despite the small number, my talk was well received and the photos shown much enjoyed.
On the following morning I spoke to the Mobilong Ladies Probus Club, this time to 108 ladies. Again the talk and photos were well received, and they laughed at my jokes which is a bonus. On the down side, I went a little over time so there was no time for questions.
I have done this presentation to nearly a dozen community groups now so I’m getting a name for myself. I’m prepared to speak to any group about my passionate interest.
I’m even prepared to travel interstate – if a plane ticket is provided! (Hey – no harm in hinting!)
Good birding.
A great photo gallery
I love taking photos of the birds of Australia. I always have the camera ready for taking shots of birds around my house and garden. I rarely forget to take it with me on trips anywhere.
Readers have often commented on the photos they see here on my site. Thank you everyone for your kind words. I get great satisfaction out of taking the photos and your comments are the icing on the cake!
Every now and then I come across another great photo site on the net. I’m especially drawn to those featuring birds, of course.
Recently my attention was drawn to the Bird Observation and Conservation Australia site (BOCA). They have started a very beautiful photo gallery. It features hundreds of wonderful photos of Australian birds. The collection is constantly being added to so it’s worth frequent visits.
Links:
Male Flame Robin, Mt. Macedon, Victoria
Australian Birdfair, Leeton, NSW
The fifth Australian Birdfair at Leeton, central NSW is on again this year. It will be held on 17th to the 19th September.
Leeton is between Narrandera and Griffith and an easy drive north west of the regional city of Wagga Wagga. It is also an easy day’s drive from both Melbourne and Sydney, a long day’s drive from Adelaide and a very long day’s drive from Brisbane.
But why rush like that? There are hundreds of fine birding spots along the way, so make it a birding holiday.The link below takes you to the web page where you can find out about accommodation, all the events that are planned, tours of the district and who will be putting on exhibits at the fair. There will also be seminars and lectures about birds. Sound good.
Wish I could be there. [sigh]
Further reading:
- Cocoparra National Park – a report of my visit to a nearby national park several years ago.
The Cocoparra National Park is only a short distance from Leeton. These photos will give you a taste of the area:
Cocoparra National Park, central New South Wales
Cocoparra National Park, central New South Wales
Happy Fifth Birthday to Trevor’s Birding site
Crested Pigeon
Trevor’s Birding is five years old today.
It has been an interesting journey. This site now boasts over 1100 articles about Australian birds with nearly 4000 comments from readers. It is read in over 100 countries by about 1000 readers every day.
This site ranks regularly in the top 50 birding websites in the world and continues to grow in popularity.
Thanks to all of my regular and loyal readers. Thanks also to those who bother to leave comments and questions; you are very much appreciated.
Now for the next 5 years!
Happy birding.
Male Flame Robin, Mt. Macedon, Victoria