This Sydney pelagic (9th February 2013) produced the first BARAU’S Petrel off the Australian East Coast! For pictures, see Raja’s website: http://www.adarman.com/Pelagics/New-South-Wales-Pelagics/2013-February-09-Sydney
The water temperature was 26degC. We will submit a detailed report to BARC.
The other great highlight was the release of the Gray-faced Petrel recently found by Joan Dawes at Circular Quay (23rd Jan; Eremaea/Birdline #163338). When the bird was found it was covered in a fine oil and required several washes and waterproofing prior to release. This was done by Libby Hall and her team at Taronga Wildlife Hospital. I (NH) released the bird at Brown’s Mountain at 10:15am while other Gray-faced Petrels were circling the boat. It was fantastic to see the bird fly away in his classic Pterodroma-manner!
Other highlights were 2+ Gould’s Petrel along with two Sooty Terns.
Roger McGovern will post a detailed report soon.
Cheers,
Nikolas and everybody on Hal’s Halicat
