Main Club 9 September 2023

There was a crash of thunder as we started our walk, but luckily, the sun came out, and the twelve of us enjoyed our walk in this beautiful Wandoo woodland halfway along the Brookton Highway. It was led by John Cresp, a naturalist and member of Birdlife Australia.

Altogether, we saw about 50 wildflower species, including at least 13 species of orchid. One was the Blood Spider Orchid Caladenia filifera, which was new to some of us. A small field of the tiny bladderwort Pink Petticoats Utricularia multifida was in the more waterlogged area. These are carnivorous plants that trap little animals in a noose-like bladder. The sun shining through a forest of sundews and bee orchids made a spectacular display.

The number of bird species seen was 23. Common in that area are the Rufous Treecreeper and the Yellow-plumed Honeyeater. The White-browed Babbler, the Western Shrike-tit and the Restless Flycatcher were others of interest. An Inland Thornbill seemed to be gathering spider webs for nest-building.

Some interesting spiders and moths were seen also. Thanks to John for his enthusiasm and knowledge, especially of the birds and the orchids of the area.

Mike Gregson

One of our well known visitors, Sophie Xiang has photos of the day on her website Sophie Xiang Wildflower Phone Photography

See page 2 a list of plants and birds we saw.