New Zealand, Invercargill and Bushy Point, 13/11/11

We said farewell to the camper van this morning as we swapped it for a car at Queenstown airport. Then we left Queenstown for the drive down to Invercargill on the south coast. 

After lunch in downtown Invercargill, we headed out to Bushy Point. At Bushy Point there is a fantastic boardwalk trail where Fernbirds can easily be seen. Arguably the best place to see them in the whole country. This is home to Ian and Jenny who run their guest house  http://www.fernbirds.co.nz/ 

First we had a cup of tea in Ian and Jenny's dining room which had a nectar feeder outside the window which was being frequented by Bellbirds and Tuis. Then Ian took us out to the trail to show us the Fernbirds. 

We saw several individuals flying over the dense grass (Probably not grass but more like reeds)  and diving into cover to get out of the wind. This was a little frustrating but then Ian located an individual nesting next to the path. I was able to video this bird from very close range.

Video grabs from my New Zealand 2011  DVD (see "Trip DVDS For Sale" tab at top of page)

Spent the night at the Tower Motel in Invercargill and went for a curry.