Winter at Lismore Lake

The second post of this trilogy presents photos from in and around Lismore Lake. Back in 2017 it had quite a deal of water in it ... at present it does not. An artificial lake that for many years was topped up with water from Wilsons River that runs parallel and as well as a wonderful public picnic space it was also a water reserve. When it was first created (I am really giving away my age here!) it was actually a water-ski lake. Unfortunately, and paradoxically, an environmental ruling meant that water from the river can no be used to keep it topped up and so during prolonged dryer spells, it dries up.

So here are some pictures for you to enjoy of the variety the full lake was attracting. You will see more in subsequent posts. One thing to keep an eye on, and that I have commented on in previous posts, is how different birds are quite comfortable sharing the same environment - of course, this is not always the case.

These three waders are both patient and efficient and have very similar strategies. The variety of plummage is a treat. 

Egrets & white necked heron

This little fella is both very pretty and colourful and fun to watch as they "duck-dive" and fly-off when their shyness alerts them to anyone close. The second one here is another perspective on the grebe with a Eurasian coot.

Australasian grebe

Australasian grebe & Eurasian coot

This next one is a lovely shot of a hardhead - the smooth mirrored surface only broken by it's wake. The striking yellow eye and white patch on the bill are key markers.

Hardhead

And here we have another pair sharing the bank as they forage for food.

Purple swamphen & magpie lark

This next sequence shows the magnificent azure kingfisher in full sunlight displaying it's dazzling colour pallette! The sequence also provides fantastic context and environment showing off just how small they are. I have my wife to thank for spotting this one as we were on the drive out. Thankfully it was not spooked when we pulled up 😀.

Azure kingfisher

Another wonderful reflection capturing the amazing variation in colour and the ease with which birds can navigate the muddiest of underfoot terrain and remain so clean!

Black-fronted dotterel

And the final two for this post offer a close-up of the distinctive plummage of the aptly named plumed whistling-duck followed by a wider angle of the flock on their island which shows what a wonderfully serene setting the lake is when full. 

Plumed whistling-duck

Plumed whistling-ducks on a full Lismore Lake