Pelicans

We returned to Australia, from our wonderful European holiday, two weeks ago today. Having enjoyed 3 1/2 weeks of temperatures rarely below 30 C, it was a shock to the system to find our temperatures had plummeted in our absence. Several mornings after our return, it was so cold inside, [no heating] that I decided to take my breakfast outside and sit in a sunny, warm, protected corner of the garden. 

A brilliant decision as, just as I was about to sit down, I became aware that a very large number of pelicans had arrived on the golf ponds. Thankfully the fairway was empty, so I was able to grab my camera, dash down and find a safe spot to watch and snap their antics.

I counted 33 on the main pond and one lonesome bird on the pond nearest to our home.  We regularly spot one or two birds, but it was four years ago when we last had such large numbers visiting. I seem to recall that one day during that period, we had over 50 birds. This day I counted 33.

Loner or ostracised? I believe, quite content.

 

 

                    Feeding techniques.

Wow, what a catch! I was very surprised at the size of the fish.

What a struggle to get it down though!

This is the main group, in file, on the second pond.

Unlike on their previous visit, the feeding wasn't a coordinated performance like a ballet. There was no glide, circle and dive synchronization. Just every pelican for himself, but still wonderful to witness.

In this video, they appear a tad syncro, but they soon become disorganised.

These received 10 out of 10 for their effort.

An unwanted suitor, who just wouldn't give up.

The morning light on this group was special.

The message must have had got around, that the golf ponds were the 'in' place to dine. We often see one or two cormorants regularly, but never a flock. 

I don't know what signal was given, but the decision was made to join in on the pelican's feast.

Their small tummies were quickly filled.

I particularly like this photograph. The pelicans were totally oblivious to Dad and son enjoying their morning together.

After nearly 2 hours, I reluctantly returned to the house and again sat outside to eat, a now late breakfast. This too was interrupted, when the pelicans, having eaten their fill, took to the sky and glided on the thermals. I'm not sure how, on those very full stomachs. The fast shutter and zoom lens on my camera allowed me to take these snaps without moving from my chair.

Wait for me!

What a glorious winter's morning sky. I am standing on the edge of the pond closest to our home, which is just to the right of the red roofed home. Every day I am grateful that we were fortunate to find this home, eleven years ago.

To whoever is reading this post, I hope you get as much joy and excitement from seeing these amazing unique birds as I have. When playing the videos, I was surprised and delighted to hear that our wonderful morning bird chorus had also been recorded.

To all my blogging friends I am gradually catching up on your wonderful posts but as yet haven't had time to leave any comments. 

I would love to read your comments.