An unusual Galah

Galah (Female, White)

On 9 January 2025, I encountered this white-winged Galah on the oval next to Trin Warren Tam-boore, Royal Park.

If the eyes were any guide, it was a female. It is amongst the flock of Galahs. I have not had the fortune of seeing it after that encounter. I do wonder if it is a genetic defect or a phase that this particular Galah is going through.

Nikon Z 9, Nikkor Z 800mm f/6.3 VR S @ 1/640s f/6.3 ISO280.

Scarlet Robin spotted at Skink Habitat

Scarlet Robin (Female)

On 14 March 2025, a female Scarlet Robin was spotted at the Skink Habitat at Trin Warren Tam-boore, Royal Park.

From the side of my eye, there was a splash of orange-red colour. I originally thought that it may be a Mistletoebird but on closer look, it appeared to be a Robin. The colouration of the breast suggested that it was a female Scarlet Robin. I tracked her around the Skink Habitat and she eventually settled down and allowed me to take this photograph.

I often find Scarlet Robins easier to photograph than Flame Robins. They have a curious nature and has a smaller circle of fear. This is also the first time that I have observed a Scarlet Robin so close to Trin.

I am hoping that the sighting of this bird marks the beginning of the winter migration of the Robins to Melbourne.

Nikon Z 9, Nikkor Z 800mm f/6.3 VR S @ 1/800s f/6.3 ISO1000

Mistletoebird of Royal Park

Mistletoebird (Female)

Until recently, this female Mistletoebird has shown up at Royal Park Trin Warren Tam-Boore every time I visited. This photograph was taken on 1 June 2024. I am not sure if she has moved on to better feeding grounds or she is still lurking around. Hopeful, she would come back soon.

Nikon Z 9, Nikkor Z 800mm f/6.3 VR S @ 1/800s f/6.3 ISO2200