Alice Springs Ponds

Ahh yes, did I mention that the ponds are of the sewage stabilisation type?

I was thrilled to get the opportunity to have a quick birding visit to the Alice Springs poo ponds while in Alice recently - even more thrilled to be shown around by my good friend and brother-in-law Richard. It makes quite a difference when you know which section of saltbush may be worth hanging around! A few non-bird shots to set the scene ....

Looking south towards Ilparpa Rd.

Heavitree Gap from the poo ponds. Alice Springs proper is just through there!

Black-winged stilt 

I don't get to these guys a lot so enjoyed seeing them close and experimenting with some Central Australian colours! 

Confused pacific black duck 

Red-necked avocet

This whistling kite was probably keen to get started on it's feed because it knew it would be harassed by the local Torresian crows.

A pink-eared duck thought it all terribly amusing

Red-kneed dotterel demonstrating the knees that are its namesake

This Australasian pipit was just begging to have its photo taken!

There were many birding highlights. Some of these however were associated with photographic disappointment! I would have dearly loved these absolutely gorgeous white-winged fairy-wren to allow us a little closer (or at least jump into focus)! Just to see this very handsome bird (lifer!) was a thrill.

Similarly we had almost given up on orange chat but a few sprang into (distant) view as we wandered back towards the car.

I certainly added to my "year list" as well and just about all the birds pictured here today have not been seen on this Victorian birder's blog before! What fun! You can also check out the Eremaea list of species from the visit.

Bird on!