For at least 12 years now there has been a lake in Broome. It was hidden for several years and we could easily access it from just through our back fence, but as new roads were built it became more visible. It is not there all year, as it fills up from the rain water that runs down the drains or from the sea on very high tides. Although we have heard complaints about it being a “muddy hole that should be sorted out” we would not like to see it go! It is on the corner of the Broome Highway and Gubinge road and easily visible. You can pull up close to it and there is always something to see if there is water in it. It appears to be a good feeding spot for numerous species of birds and the advantage of it being so close to our home is we often get these birds fly over en route! If we don’t get a good look as they fly over we go and see what is at the lake. Due to the fact that it is such a muddy hole there are some birds that appear to have rather odd plumage-don’t be tricked into thinking it’s a new species-it’s a muddy species!

Broome’s lake

Plumed Whistling-Ducks and Australasian Grebe

Silver Gulls, Australian White Ibis and Plumed Whistling-Ducks

 Royal Spoonbill-of the muddy variety!

Royal Spoonbills and an off-white Australian White Ibis

It would be nice if more people appreciated the birdlife in this muddy spot and we hope that it will remain part of our environment for years to come. Meanwhile, we will continue to enjoy it and all the surprises that it brings!

As you read this we have just got to Sydney to help my sister and family with a house move, a new school for our two nephews and just a spot of birding…there’s a list to add to!