Fogg Dam

On the ride out to Kakadu, more than an hour from Darwin, we passed a turn off to Fogg Dam. We decided to drive out for look around. We indeed did get to see some of our feathered friends. Above is the Australian Darter.

The Castlemaine Botanical Garden

We've had a lot of rainy cool days lately, but during a recent spot of sun, I visited the Botanical Garden here in Castlemaine. such a garden is a standard fixture in every town of any size in Australia. Just like the bowls club, veterinarian office, and place to wet your whistle, it is an iconic part of small town life here.

I'm not entirely sure who we have above. I believe it is some sort of Mallard-mix. He's missing the band around the neck. Ducks are quite promiscuous and there are variations that span the gamut.

A Last VIsit to Winton Wetlands

We found it irresistible to make one more visit to the Winton Wetlands before we left the countryside. The day was clear and breezy and not too hot. I took time to make a long exposure (about 4 minutes) of the landscape. The motion of the clouds give the sky a smooth look in contrast with the prickly character of the dead trees.

Narda Lagoon

Just at the edge of the small town of Laidley is the Narda Lagoon. This is a small pool of water, apparently along a river that is low on water just now. There is a suspension bridge across it and a park adjacent.

Lake Dyer

We visited Lake Dyer and found the water to be very low. These rocks in the background would all usually be underwater. Sitting on them are the Little Black Cormorant, the Great Egret, and the Little Pied Cormorant.

A First Attempt At Birding (updated)

Today we spent a couple hours in the Toowoomba Waterbird Habitat. It is a modest (19 acre) park about four minutes from the house. We've arrived in Australia in time for breading season, and the Australian White Ibis (a.k.a. the Sacred Ibis) were in full breeding plumage and were clearly frisky on their nests. In fact, there was lots of squabbling about who was going to be in what nest with what partner.