I noticed that this magpie was interested in something in the long grass at Hull Rd Wetlands the other day. Then there was a squeak and for some reason I thought it had a young bird. I was impressed to see it marching off with a mouse. I'm accustomed to seeing them poking around for insects, worms and other invertebrates or scavenging from cooperative humans so this was a change for me!
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Australian magpie (Gymnorhina tibicen)
Hull Rd Wetlands, Lilydale |
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| Bird of prey!!!? |
Also hunting in the soft ground after recent rain was this white-faced heron. While I was watching all he caught was a cricket.
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| White-faced heron (Egretta novaehollandiae) |
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Poor shot just before swallowing
his prized catch. |
Yes it sure surprises me too; for goodness sake! Great moment to capture.
ReplyDeleteWell I am only partly surprised!
ReplyDeleteMagpies are known to be opportunistic and omnivorous... something might also have be wrong with the mouse!
The beak is very strong.
As for the Heron, much ado about nothing!! LOL!
Great series of photos! :)
A magpie flew past the front yard few moments ago with something in its beak. Perched in a tree and started eating it. So I checked it out, and sure nuff - freshly killed mouse
ReplyDeleteLet's hope they keep up the good work!
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