Serenity at Lake Paluma, Northern Queensland, Australia
‘A terrific call! Just magic!’ These were the first words I heard early mornings at Lake Paluma, which I found quite amusing. I had a wee chuckle as they came as a little surprise.
Tree reflections on Lake Paluma, Northern Queensland, Australia
Those words came from two enthusiastic bird sound recorders, who just recorded a clear sound of a ‘Rifle Bird’ calling out for his mate. I sat in the sun with a cup of coffee when I watched these two middle-aged men stalking the woods with XL microphones. I couldn’t agree more. The serenity up here is a haven for bird lovers. Low winds made the surroundings eerie quiet and bird sounds traveled a long way.
Early morning mirror and shadows at Lake Paluma, Northern Queensland, Australia
I met these two bird sounders yesterday afternoon on my arrival at Lake Paluma. I was somewhat surprised to see them along the lake shore, pointing their microphones in various directions. They were very passionate about their hobby, which is always great to see.
Oh hello! Lake Paluma, Northern Queensland, Australia
Back at Troopy, I had a surprise visitor while I was drinking my warming coffee in chilly, but sunny conditions. A single Yellow-Crested White Cockatoo landed in a tree not far from me.
Left footed feeding at Lake Paluma, Northern Queensland, Australia
He didn’t mind me and my camera at all and showed off his skills and colours in modeling fashion.
Choices, choices! Lake Paluma, Northern Queensland, Australia
He seemed to be quite selective with his afternoon snack. He wiggled a few branches up and down.
Enjoying his view at Lake Paluma, Northern Queensland, Australia
He did enjoy the view and the sun rays just as much as I did. This alone made the long trip to Lake Paluma worth it.
Lucky me at Lake Paluma, Northern Queensland, Australia
I just couldn’t believe my luck. White cockatoos normally roam the the higher trees in smaller flocks. This one did exactly the opposite.
Wind sheltered mirror Lake Paluma, Northern Queensland, Australia
The forest on the eastern flank of this man made damn sheltered easterly winds and gave mirror reflections to a stunning sunset.
High tide at Lake Paluma, Northern Queensland, Australia
The waters were clear, yet a touch green due to composing vegetation and algae.
The sun’s last warning rays at Lake Paluma, Northern Queensland, Australia
The setting sun rays lost their last strength of warmth as it got very cold, very quickly.
Crisp and clear at Lake Paluma, Northern Queensland, Australia
It was time to warm up inside troopy.
Early morning reflections at Lake Paluma, Northern Queensland, Australia
I was up before sunrise the next morning and set Maniyak up. These crisp early morning colours are not to be missed, no matter how cold it is. With a little luck, I might spot a platypus or even a cassowary, when I am gliding soundlessly over this lake. None of those animals were spotted, but it was still an incredible sight.
Giant mirror Lake Paluma, Northern Queensland, Australia
The calm, sun shadowed waters acted like a spotless, giant mirror across the lake. There was an immense feeling of serenity and peace at mind.
No birds seen, plenty heard at Lake Paluma, Northern Queensland, Australia
All kinds of bird songs echoed throughout the forest, some sounded more familiar then others.
Early morning entertainment at Lake Paluma, Northern Queensland, Australia
The noisy calls from a block of white cockatoos could not be mistaken. They too were full of beans whilst collecting seeds.
In tune in sepia at Lake Paluma, Northern Queensland, Australia
I was in tune with nature. So much, that even my feet had the same temperature as the cold lake water. It was time to return. The early morning sun rays were greatly appreciated.
Travels with Ben 