Rediscovery of yellow chats (Capricorn Subspecies) on the Fitzroy River Delta Central Queensland

Abstract

A third extant population of the Yellow Chat (Epthianura crocea macgregori) is reported from the delta of the Fitzroy River near Rockhampton. This raises the estimated total for the current abundance of this Capricorn subspecies to approximately 300 birds. Surveys conducted in the delta at Twelve Mile Creek and Raglan Creek during February and March 2004 produced sightings of approximately 40 birds (adults and fledgling juveniles) from two sites 6km apart. Nests were located in low grass adjacent to samphire habitat surrounded by shallow freshwater and tidal wetlands. The subspecies has not been reported from the delta of the Fitzroy River since the late 1800's. These sightings help to re-establish (see also this issue Jaensch et al 2004 and Houston et al 2004a) the former known range of the subspecies over approximately 200 km of coastline.