2 August 2010

While I was in the Atherton Tablelands, I popped to Bromfield Swamp for Sarus Cranes. Lucky I did, as we saw no others while we were there. Apparently, it was a late start to the season.

Sarus Cranes used to occur from Australia to northern India but have since become extinct as a breeding species in India, Nepal and Pakistan (Birdlife International). With only a few hundred birds left in south-east Asia, the isolated Australian population of between 5,000 – 10,000 birds is really important. The Atherton Tablelands has had up to 3,000 birds!

The main features that tell them apart can all be seen in this video. Many have a white “bustle” – the feathers that hang down over their tail when they are standing, which contrasts with the grey back. The red on the head extends way down the back of the neck and throat, though this isn’t always obvious until they extend their necks. Other features include the pink legs and – if you have a Brolga nearby – they are about 10% larger.

Bromfield Swamp is located just south of Malanda. It’s about a ten minute drive. Head out of Malanda to the west and turn left up Malanda Upper Barron Road. You can’t miss the crater – the road runs along the eastern and northern edge. If you reach the dirt road, you’ve gone too far. You can park in a layby opposite Stonehouse Road where there is a concrete viewing are and sign board. For more information and a map, see http://qld.tnq-birding.wildiaries.com/trips/10253