Callocephalon fimbriatum

Callocephalon fimbriatum

My sister and I spotted a small flock of these stunning birds in the bush behind her house. The gang-gang cockatoo (Callocephalon fimbriatum), native to the coastal regions of southeastern Australia, is easily recognised by its unique call, often likened to a creaky gate. It is the faunal emblem of the Australian Capital Territory.

The loss of older, hollow trees and feeding habitats has caused a significant decline in the birds’ population in recent years. As a result, the gang-gang cockatoo is now classified as vulnerable in New South Wales and is slated for listing as endangered. So we were especially pleased to spot these beauties.

buttress roots

buttress roots

I sat on the rainforest floor to sketch these fig buttress roots, but within a few minutes found myself to be leech food. I hurriedly plucked about six of the little buggers off my legs and arms and abandoned the location. Mt Glorious is indeed glorious, if you love rainforest, and don’t mind leeches.