Getting out and about and encouraging readers to take lots of interest in our natural environment has been one of the key messages for “Observers” reports for the past 2 years. A few temporary physical restrictions has seen the Observers wanderings around the bush somewhat restricted for the past couple months. Although initially it seemed lack of physical mobility would correspond with a decline in observing opportunities, in fact it has opened up a whole new awareness of nature much closer to home.This was precipitated by a pair of Brown falcons nesting in a large tree on a fenceline which borders the Wychitella Nature conservation reserve. Making regular use of binoculars has been a great tool, and the birds have stayed within close range even spending long periods perched on the clothesline!
More time at home has allowed greater observations of the delightful antics of the yellow footed antechinus even seen scampering along the verandah rail. However a few days later the less delightful but also realistic part of nature was observed. The young goanna which had been regularly seen around the house had caught the antechinus and was eating it.
There is not only nature, but also the threats to biodiversity that can be noted domestically. Late afternoon a very large feral cat was spotted, sitting in the yard like he owned the place.
At present the peace of sitting on the verandah is interrupted by the noisy and very industrious work of the Mud dauber wasps. There seems to be huge numbers of their large mud nests under construction on brick walls, in sheds and on infrequently used vehicles.
So even if you can’t move far from home, enjoy what nature has to show you in your own backyard.
Wedderburn Conservation Management network “Observers”
Attached photograph is of a Brown Falcon
