Of Worms and Birds

Finally, the tracks have been identified! For many years the observers have noted the tracks of large earthworms seen on moist ground at the edge of a local unsealed road. Recently in the early morning they were fortunate to sight not one, but two of these worms some 500m apart. The road has forest on one side, and large trees on the other side with plenty of leaf litter providing good habitat for not only the worms, but many other important insects.

Bird observations have also featured this month. Studying birds around your home environment is indeed an enjoyable experience. It can also be exciting when a new bird, previously not seen from your kitchen window, is identified. A Spotted pardalote has been added to the Observers “seen around our house” list.

Many of the large yellow gums are flowering. The blossom attracts several different bird species. At present sulphur crested cockatoos are enjoying the flowers and associated insects. Their feeding habits drop plenty of small branches, twigs and flowers on the ground below creating quite a carpet. Casuarinas are also flowering and provide a lot of interest for smaller birds.

Orchid leaves are starting to appear. By carefully noting where many orchids were seen last year it encourages the observer to revisit the site more frequently now to watch for any developing orchid plants.

Attending the recent fungi workshop presented by Alison Pouliot has stimulated an increased interest and understanding of fungi species, and in particular just how many can be found in our area. It is exciting to anticipate the proliferation of fungi with the increased moisture in the environment this year. Be observant, look in likely and not so likely places and you will be rewarded with sighting of many of this interesting species.

Wedderburn Conservation Management Network “Observers”

Photo Caption: Large earthworm seen on roadside.