The Dandenongs - Jan 2015

I took a drive out to the Dandenongs with the intention of walking up and around the 1000 steps. I didn't realise that half of Melbourne would have the same idea! After driving past a line of parked cars that went on for a few k's past the carpark we decided that walking with such a crowd would not be fun so continued on to Sherbrooke forest.

During our walk I heard a pair of Eastern Whipbirds making conversation and managed to get within a few metres of one but still didn't get a glimpse of it after 15 minutes of staring into the bush. I will be prepared to stake it out all day next time!

Further up the track we saw a flash of orange fly past and was able to locate a Rufous Fantail. I managed to get this one shot before it quickly darted off.

Rufous Fantail, Rhipidura rufifrons

This was a new spotting for me and I'm keen to go back and spend more time chasing it for a clearer photo.

Another highlight was getting up close to these beautiful King Parrots and Crimson Rosellas. 

Australian King Parrot, Alisterus scapularis

Crimson Rosella, Platycercus elegans

I think I'll take a deck chair next time so I can outlast the Whipbird in it's hide and seek game!

Rufous Fantail - tick #212