EDITOR DES- BIRDWATCHER!

Despite living in a bird filled garden it hasn’t been easy for my associate Editor Des to become a successful birdwatcher. He is enthusiastic enough, but lacks the patience required. I mean, you cannot just nod off! 😨

It all began with our visiting kookaburras, Toffee and Taffy. To be honest though, it was initially more them watching him! Anyway, it piqued his interest.

He formed a close friendship with Taffy in the end. So sweet to see.

Little Milly (Des’s girlfriend) was slightly hesitant when Toffee was introduced to her….but I can understand that. A kookaburra is a BIG bird. Editor Des thoroughly enjoyed his role as protector.

THE CONTINUING EDUCATION OF A BIRDWATCHER

These days Des realizes that the best place to watch tiny birds is at the baths on a sunny day;

Or on a sunny rock in Memorial Park.

He bought an identification book with his birthday money.

Venturing a little further from home brought new discoveries. Here he is down in Blackheath’s Memorial Park one wet day;

This strange sight required a bit more research. Note the badge. At least our young friend accepts the fact that he is still in training. Here is some advice re reference books. The one he is reading is a slim volume called Birds of the Blue Mountains by Margaret Baker. It covers the 50 most common species in our area. Much more useful than a huge volume.

Editor Des still has a lot to learn, but I’m really proud of him. He has come such a long way since he and his friends endured a terrifying encounter with sulphur crested cockatoos in Sydney.

Are you becoming bored during this long period of pandemic isolation? Become a birdwatcher like Editor Des. I promise it will cheer you up no end! Stay safe dear readers.

DES ALSO HAS AN INTEREST IN SKINKS.