White-headed Pigeon (Columba leucomela) Jourama Falls Queensland Australia
White-headed Pigeon (Columba leucomela) Jourama Falls Queensland Australia Canon EOS 7D Lens 400mm L USM ISO400 F8.0 1/640 flash 19 August 2011 11.07am
If you visit far north Queensland I found that Jourama Falls is an excellent spot for a number of species especially Fruit Doves, Pied Monarchs, Yellow-breasted Boatbills, Azure Kingfishers etc. It is an easy drive from either Ingham, Paluma or Townsville.. don't overlook it. I mention this aspect as many photographers visit Queensland from overseas in chase of holidays and also wildlife.
The White-headed Pigeon landed as I was taking some images of Figbirds and Leaden Flycathers and was more cooperative than other times I have tried for this species. This particular Australian species has to some extent benefited European settlement in Australia as it has occupied those areas where the introduced Camphor Laurels and privet have spread, however now that reclamation of land from Camphor Laurel infestation has been done White-headed Pigeon populations are expected to also reduce.
Thanks for viewing
Best regards
Rod Warnock
I hard bird to photograph as they like to stick to the trees high up - I have seen them here in Sydney. Bird too big in the frame for me also. Nice detail in the feathers.