The weather on Saturday, 12 May, was much better than predicted, with a lovely blue sky, sunny periods and no rain, though there was a cool breeze at times.

Almost one dozen people turned up, looking forward to this ‘newly discovered’ location of the Ocean Grove Nature Reserve, anticipating a fruitful day of bird watching. Prior to our visit, a particularly attractive, young Australasian Grebe had been sighted here. A short walk saw us at a picturesque lake – yet no waterbirds were to be seen. Honeyeaters, hidden amongst the foliage, were busily feeding on Eucalypts flowering on the island.

When walking along the northern fence line of the reserve, we heard the melodious tune of Eurasian Skylarks in the farmland on the other side of the fence. An ANGAIR member referred to an App (application) on his iPhone, which helped identify this ‘introduced’ bird.

During our two hours in this wonderful woodland, less than two dozen bird species were seen; however, in spite of this, everyone agreed to return, perhaps in spring. Members enjoyed the company of one another along the way, and we were pleased to have some good map readers with us in this large reserve.

A highlight on our return to the picnic area was a Black Wallaby, who kindly posed while we ‘took our fill’ of this healthy animal.

Parks volunteer, Colin, opened the Information Centre, played guitar and shared information about the reserve with us.

Lynn and Penne enjoyed standing in for Ellinor – who is currently travelling on holiday.

Lynn Bunning