blockhill - forest garden experience & education

North Canterbury

Friendly kereru regularly visit the orchard

Friendly kereru regularly visit the orchard

Details   Seen sitting here in one of the older plum trees, one of the local wood pidgin helps thin blossoms before flying heavily to the next tree.
Date   September 18, 2014
Tags     kereru  plum  blossoms  orchard  native birds 
Tui

Tui

Today I saw the first Tui as he flew lazily and dipped across the paddock, settling on the tip of a tall pine.

Over the next half an hour or so he explored the gully and I could hear his distinctive voice as he called out, seeking cousins.

I just hope he decides to take up residence and not just pass on through. There is plenty to keep him here, but no mates at present.

UPDATE
For the next week or so, 2 Tuis set up residence in our orchard and could be seen and heard playing noisily. At present (24 Aug) they seem to have gone again. We hope they return.
July 17, 2010
Bird Safety - The clown cat

Bird Safety - The clown cat

Gibson had been catching an unfortunate number of birds over the winter months (as well as mice which we are greatfull for) so something had to be done.

He doesn't seem to mind his bright 'bird safety' collar.
August 04, 2010
  Gibson  birds 
Quail

Quail

While cutting wood the other day I uncovered a nest containing 14 quail eggs. These birds are common round here and apparently make good eating so I transfered the eggs under a clucky hen in the hopes she will hatch them out.
November 29, 2009
  quail  birds  eggs  incubate 
Baby Fantail

Baby Fantail

Known for its friendly 'cheet cheet' call and energetic flying antics, the aptly named fantail is one of the most common and widely distributed native birds on the New Zealand mainland.

It is easily recognised by its long tail which opens to a fan.

February 24, 2010
  Fantail  Native  Bird