Noisy Miner chicks (first day out of nest)

Manorina melanocephala

Description:

These two Noisy Miner chicks have taken their first flight into the wider world. I doubt they would be a fortnight old, but this is day 1 of life beyond the nest. Very small and fuzzy, but already taking on the recognisable facial features of the adult birds. Tail feathers have yet to grow, although the flight feathers are developing rapidly (see last photo). At such a young age they are already capable of flight, albeit very short ones between the closely-spaced trees and garden shrubbery.

Habitat:

Spotted in a garden at the Metroplex on Gateway estate, Murarrie, Brisbane.

Notes:

This is the second clutch of chicks by the same parents since July. More snapping-dive-bombing adults and squawking chicks. Wonderful!! Just as well I like them.

Species ID Suggestions

6 Comments

AshleyT 9 years ago

The more the better! We are trying to get people to put more info with their spottings, and not just info they copy from wikipedia. We have been letting users know that we rarely nominate spottings for sotw if they don't have genuine text with them, and if there's a story then that is even better! Just wanted to let you know to keep doing what you're doing :)

Neil Ross 9 years ago

Thanks, Ashley. Most people's spottings are special, and some quite emotional. The little stories fill in the gaps and convey those emotions that photos alone just can't. I fell ripped off when there are no details with a spotting. The stories I enjoy telling, but probably write too much. I definitely talk too much!

AshleyT 9 years ago

Great series, Neil! I always love the notes you put with each spotting, makes them all seem so special to you, thus making them special for the site too :)

Neil Ross 9 years ago

It's only a matter of time. There are still squawking juveniles from the last clutch the parents had in July, so more squawkers?!!! They are cute though. One of the July babies is very friendly, and he's my favourite.