Excursion 5: Sparrovale Saltmarsh Wetland Reserve (Sparrovale-Ngubitj yoorree)

Leader: Donna Smithyman
Facilitator: Chrissy Freestone

A background to the history and purpose of the site was provided before we walked for a kilometre along a muddy track amongst saltmarsh vegetation. About 60 Red-necked Stints were observed along with a few Sharp-tailed Sandpipers and Black-fronted Dotterels, a Whistling Kite, a Black-shouldered kite and a Black Kite were also seen. 

One Brolga was seen at the very start of the excursion but unfortunately those participants who’d arrived early missed seeing it. We walked to the end of the channel that is used to divert stormwater away from the Ramsar site into the Sparrovale Wetland. It was a very showery morning, but the resolute group did not give in to the conditions.

Talking with participants and hearing them share their knowledge about different things of interest such as the different species of salt marsh vegetation was a valuable part of the excursion. Despite the weather conditions and the fact that a couple of ponds were dry there was quite a good variety of birds to be seen.   

eBird list: https://ebird.org/checklist/S315451503