Apostlebirds, Weddin Mountains National Park NSW

During our time in Weddin Mountains National Park, we had the unexpected pleasure of a visit from a lively family of apostlebirds. We had set out a small bowl of water, and before long, the whole group gathered around it, chattering constantly but drinking peacefully side by side.

After a while, one of the birds decided to try bathing in the bowl. Seeing the enthusiasm, we put out a few extra dishes of water for them to use. In such an arid place, it was lovely to watch how much they enjoyed themselves.

The apostlebird (Struthidea cinerea) is native to Australia and is often seen roaming open woodlands, foraging for insects and seeds close to the ground. They typically travel in groups of around 12, which is how they earned their name — a nod to the 12 Biblical apostles.

5 Things you may or may not know about Apostlebirds

 

Echidna Bathtime

Our resident echidna enjoying a bath in the scrubwren's bowl. As you can see, the echidna was rather dirty. The scrubwren was none too pleased. 😆

Providing a source of safe, clean water is a great way to help your local wildlife – especially in times of extreme heat. We have 8 water bowls of various sizes scattered around the property. The birds and animals (including the snakes) all have their favourite/s i.e. the young rosellas love wallowing in the dog bowl, the fairywrens the shallow pot plant saucer.