Superb Fruit-dove at Tinchi Tamba Wetlands, Brisbane

This young male Superb Fruit-dove caused considerable interest from local birders at Tinchi Tamba Wetlands, on the North Pine River north of Brisbane. I followed the trail of birders, 30 kilometres from my home, to see if I could get some photos of this well camouflaged small Fruit-dove. I, along with others, were rewarded with many opportunities as he fed on ripe figs and flew between several trees. The fig tree was quite small, but it still took several minutes to locate him in the foliage as we waited patiently for him to relax and give us some lovely views. The Superb Fruit-dove is found from New Guinea to Southern NSW, in suitable habitat, although in NSW they are considered vulnerable due to habitat loss. 

Interesting fact: 

The female incubates the single egg during the night and the male takes over in the daytime. 

Young male Superb Fruit-dove, Tinchi Tamba Wetlands

Young male Superb Fruit-dove, Tinchi Tamba Wetlands

Young male Superb Fruit-dove, Tinchi Tamba Wetlands

The story and images by Steve Grainger