Nightingale of the Pooh Farm

Another bird species that thrives in the reed beds of the Crake Pit at the Pooh Farm is the Australian Reed Warbler…it is more often heard than seen, generally only  glimpsed  as it flies between clumps of reeds in the lagoons, secretive but loud during Spring/Summer breeding seasons.

The reed warbler has a loud ringing song and has been described as being one of the most melodious singers hence one of its the informal names, Nightingale. Often heard in Spring and Summer in wetlands with good reed coverage. The warbler uses sustained singing to defend its territory amongst the reeds.  It migrates north during autumn for the winter and back for the spring.

Acrocephalus australis  – Acrocephalus, Greek for  ‘peak head’ and australis Latin for ‘southern’ . Also called Clamorous Reed Warbler, Great Reed Warbler, Reed-lark, Swamp Tit, Water Sparrow, Nightingale (HANZAB Volume 7b)

Australian Reed Warbler, Western Treatment Plant, Victoria

II

…got the Damsel fly…

IV

…a quick leap to the next target…

VI

VII

…typical pose when seen, hanging onto a reed ready to pounce on prey…