© irene waters 2014
Which way. Although the map will show them their migratory route the mutton birds know instinctively which way to go. The female lays her eggs in a ground nest made of twigs and grass. The female sits on her eggs for a couple of months in summer until hatching takes place. She then cares for her young for about three months when she leaves them in mid-April to fend for themselves. The chicks follow knowing which way to go instinctively, heading on their long migration to South East Asia. They will return in August, often to the same burrow to begin the cycle over again.
Mutton Bird Island is found at Coffs Harbour and is possibly the only accessible island for viewing not only the mutton birds, but also white-faced storm petrels and black winged petrels (who also nest on the island) and a large number of reptiles, and a vast wealth of indigenous history. The island has dreamtime stories attached to it about the moon falling into the sea. Only the elders were permitted to go there and the people believed that the moon man-guardian sent the mutton birds to provide food for the people.
- © irene waters 2014
Which way to the island is not a problem. A jetty extends from the mainland to the island making access very easy.
© irene waters 2014
Rugged rocks, sparse vegetation is the impression as you near the island.
© irene waters 2014
© irene waters 2014
Where island meets sea beauty and life abound.
© irene waters 2014
I’m looking for a nest. Perhaps this is one?
The views are wonderful.
© irene waters 2014
© irene waters 2014
What kind of reptile lurks here?
- © irene waters 2014
Thankfully only a blue tongue lizard.
© irene waters 2014
On the island it is very clear which way you are to go.
© irene waters 2014
© irene waters 2014
© irene waters 2014
© irene waters 2014
© irene waters 2014
© irene waters 2014
Finally a bird. But no, it is not the Puffinus tenuirostris or short-tailed shearwater otherwise known as the Mutton bird.
http://ceenphotography.com/2014/01/22/cees-which-way-challenge-2014-2/
Great shots 🙂 that lizard could be confused for a snake though with that head huh?
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I have to say I was relieved to see the head. The photo above where it wasn’t visible I thought there was a possibility of a brown snake and those I’m not too keen on.
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That’s the last thing u want near you when you’re taking photos :O
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Too true.
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Your sign and ways are cool, but the lizard is the best of all!!! 🙂 Thanks for playing with us.
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I enjoyed playing. Glad you liked the lizard. 😀
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Great photos. We have mutton birds too, down around Stewart Island. I am not so keen on the lizard though, looks too much like a snake. Eek. 😀
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I don’t know a lot about Stewart Island but I know there are several places they go. The lizard is harmless although can bite if corner but tries to scare with his blue tongue where possible. A snake is another matter altogether. 😀
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Very interesting.
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Thanks.
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