Petroica phoenicea (Flame Robin) IUCN Status: Near Threatened One of four species of robins in Tasmania, flame robins are easy to see in the highlands. They are territorial, and quite obliging, and stunning. I sat on a rocky outcrop between two forested areas overlooking the Great Lake late on a long summer day. I played their call. My winged companion flitted all around me. He sort the unseen intruder challenging in his territorial claims. No camera. It’s also important to take the time to experience and observe.
Armed with my observations I sought him out again in the wonderful morning light. I tried to capture some shots: OK but not great. In this new dynamic I again observed. I noted perching behaviours, distractions and disturbances. I also took in the direction and nature of the of the light as the morning progressed. I got some shots, but not “the shot”.
The following morning, I got up later, went straight to a planned position and set up. Upon playing his call again my friend turned up without delay. A little more accustomed to my presence, he allowed me to get some satisfying shots of this beautiful species.
