The Rose Robin (Petroica rosea) is one of nine species of robins that are fund in the state of Victoria. A week or so ago I was lucky enough to go on an organised tour, the aim of which was to find all of these nine species.
Over the next few weeks I will be sharing the species we found. It seems an appropriate set of birds to pick as we move towards Christmas.
All Australian robin are members of the family Petroicidae and are not closely related to the European Robin (Erithacus rubecula) who's similar red colouring is almost certainly responsible for the comma name.
The Rose Robin is found in south-eastern Australia from south-east Queensland, along coast and inland to western slopes of Great Dividing Range in New South Wales and south into Victoria. It prefers wet forest and rainforest habitats (which is where I saw this one) during spring and summer, moving into drier, more open habitats during autumn and winter.
As you can see, this bird is eating a substantial spider. A classic Australian image I think!
This is a reasonably small bird, doing interesting things a reasonable way up a tree - so I would click on the images so that they become larger! SM
What an adorable little bird Stewart. I am off tomorrow for Down Under! Thanks for hosting. I hope you have a wonderful week ahead
ReplyDeleteBrilliant striking plumage. Look forward to see how many robin species you were able to "collect."
ReplyDeleteHari OM
ReplyDeleteGorgeous, and what a lovely idea to focus on one group for a series. YAM xx
Rose indeed! A little beauty!
ReplyDeleteA very beautiful bird, Stewart! Your photos definitely reward closer inspection. Thank you!
ReplyDeleteWhat an unusual bird and great that we got to see it virtually with you. Have a good Christmas. Cheers Diane
ReplyDeleteIt is a pretty little bird.
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