A bird watcher’s paradise

How often Do you turn your eyes to the sky or the trees and really take notice of what you will find?

Berrigan-based veteran avian enthusiast David Hughes said many people would be surprised at the variety of birdlife that calls the Southern Riverina home.

David has held a lifelong passion for all things birdrelated, and has taken to birdwatching with his camera in tow to capture as many of the different species he can. And he is encouraging locals and visitors alike to explore and see what they can find.

“You’ve probably got birds you wouldn’t even know about in your own backyard,” he said.

If you’re looking to venture beyond the backyard, great spots for shots include canola plantations.

“The birds love that stuff.

“Every shot I get out there they’ve got a grub snagged in their mouth.”

Areas with lots of water or thick trees are also popular with our feathered friends.

“You’re bound to capture some great water birds around Finley, especially eastern rosellas.”

And otherwise any area with a thick treeline, long grass and “lots of natives”.

Other essentials include a camera with a zoom lens — and it doesn’t have to be expensive according to David, who started off with a $300 camera from a major retailer — or binoculars. Whilst a seasoned pro when it comes to all things avian, David is a newcomer to photography. But he says both are more accessible than ever for beginners.

“I had no clue about photography, I just researched lots on social media! “I’ve lived here pretty much all my life and found birds I didn’t even think lived in Berrigan!”

David cites video sharing platforms like Youtube, and Facebook groups such as ‘Bird Photography Australia’, ‘Australian Birds’, and ‘Birds of Oz’ as excellent assets for those looking to get into bird watching or bird photography. And if you need help identifying the birds you do find, David’s pick is a book called Australian Bird Photography. “They’ve got everything in that book, it’s a great resource,” he said.

“Or you could just post your photo in one of those groups with what you think it might be, and if you get it wrong someone will correct you in no time!”