While heading downstream along my local creek I noticed a lump on a dead branch of a Willow Tree that did not quite look right. Moving closer I realised it was one of the local nocturnal Tawny Frogmouths on a daytime roost. It was difficult to photograph but I found a way to get closer by walking into the parking area of one of the apartment blocks nearby. As I moved around the tree I found the partner of the Frogmouth that I had seen from across the creek. It was tucked into a little branch shelter and just about invisible. This species are masters of camouflage and often roost in the open. They are rarely noticed and survive well in an urban space. Even when discovered that can just watch you or move into their camouflaged pose (I am just a branch stump) or just go back to sleep. They are territorial and will roost in a close-by series of trees in a neighbourhood. It is surprising how many pairs there are in Elwood considering it is an inner city suburb. Always a welcome find…
An football sized object in the tree that did not quite blend in…
Elongated branch stump pose
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Expressive and curious eyes
The partner on the other side of the tree.
Filed under: Birds, Victoria Tagged: Australian Birds, Bird Photography, Elster Creek, Nature Photography, Tawny Frogmouth, Victoria
