Bullock Creek Bird Survey: June 2026

Thanks to Paul van Klink (FOBC) and Jo Tilson (Southern Lakes Sanctuary) for leading our first-ever Bird Survey at the Bullock Creek Hatchery Springs.

Enthusiastic Participants

While we planned two sessions over a Tuesday and Sunday in late June, inclement weather unfortunately forced us to cancel the Sunday session. However, we had an enthusiastic turnout on Tuesday! The high level of inquiry and interest has FOBC considering making this an annual event, perfectly timed to coincide with the national NZ Garden Bird Survey held during the last week of June each year.

Despite the chilly winter weather, participants stayed cozy with a warming cup of soup in hand. The session kicked off with a great introduction to the local birdlife, teaching attendees exactly what to look out for and how to identify different species using a variety of resources. It was a highly interactive session—everyone had the opportunity to ask Paul questions and take home identification cards developed by the NZ Garden Bird Survey.

10 Years of Native Restoration

FOBC has been undertaking native restoration work at Bullock Creek Hatchery Springs for a decade now. As the trees start to mature, we are gaining incredible insights into the urban birdlife at this site.

During our Tuesday session, we spotted great numbers of native and introduced species, including:

  • Tūī

  • Korimako (Bellbird)

  • Regular visits from Kāhu (Harrier Hawk)

  • Riroriro (Grey Warbler) – A rare treat! Paul spotted this little guy, which is not usually seen in this urban environment.

  • Pīwakawaka (Fantail)

  • A few "flybys" from Kāhu (Harrier Hawk)

  • And many non-native birds to be found in the urban environment:

    • Dunnock

    • House sparrow

    • Greenfinch 

    • Blackbird

    • Starling

    • Song thrush

    • Silvereye

It will be fascinating to watch how our sightings evolve in the years to come as our restoration work continues.

FOBC Trust