Monday, April 2, 2007

New Residents

My front yard is a bit of a jungle. I have three small gums, a couple of (Callistemons) bottlebrush, lots of different grevilleas, a plum tree, several frangipanni and several lower clumps of natives that give shelter for the frogs and other visitors. The yards is actually quite small but I have packed lots into it.

Every morning and evening the 'residents' fly in - a large flock of Rainbow lorikeets, a very loud flock of noisy miners and half dozen equally loud Red Wattlebirds. Last year there was a 'turf war' between the miners and the wattlebirds but that seems to have been settled and they are sharing nicely most of the time. We also have Sulphur Crested Cockatoos who come irregularly although they fly over each day. And when the plums are almost ready the Fruit Bats arrive to strip the tree..... Actually the fruit bats love the nectar from the Callistemons and often can be heard squabbling over the tastiest at night.

I have never put food out for the 'residents' because there is plenty for them in the garden (I use the term garden loosely).

About three weeks ago a couple of Magpies flew in much to the chagrin of the regulars. I watched them for a week or so and they seemed to have no intention of leaving. They were very thin and their feathers dull and lifeless.

Anyway, last week I decided to give them some food. When they were sitting on a nearby telegraph pole I threw a handful onto the pavers and went inside to watch. Sure enough they flew down and ate the lot.

Next day I went out with a handful and this time one flew down straight away so I stayed there and threw the food to 'him'. The other saw what was happening and flew in too. Now they expect food each day.

This morning I went out to feed them and they both flew down and began to eat then both of the stopped and first one the both burst into song - now for all I know they may have been complaining at the quality of the food but I chose to take it as a thank you song.

Both have put on weight and their feathers are getting glossy again. Looks like my 'residents' have increased by two.

Thanks to Birds in Backyards for some of the pictures.

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