BIRDS OF MAGNETIC ISLAND
Magnetic Island is home to over 186 types of birds including Blue-winged Kookaburras, Sulphur-crested Cockatoos, Brahminy Kites and the island's iconic Bush-stone Curlew.
The authoritative text on Magnetic Island's prodigious bird life is Jo Wieneke's Birds of Magnetic Island - it's currently out of print but a copy is available to view at the Magnetic Island Museum in Picnic Bay. |
Bar-shouldered Dove
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Brahminy Kite
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Bush Stone-Curlew
(Burhinus grallarius) Nothing says Magnetic Island more than the curlew. With its distinctive, once-heard-never-forgotten cry, its statuesque appearance and ability to blend into the background, the curlew is iconic Magnetic Island. Many residents are thrilled to have the birds breeding in their gardens. as they have gone from many other areas of Australia. Standing around half a metre tall, they freeze and flatten to the ground when threatened. Most active (and vocal) at night. Voice: Far-carrying, mournful whistles and wailing. Food: Insects. For a great Magnetic Times article on curlews, click here. (Photos: Unknown) |
Channel-billed Cuckoo
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