Bird-Watching Capital

I was delighted to read the letter by Ray Spring concerning the number of bird species that a guest from England spotted from Ray’s Huntsbury house recently (Nov 8).

It may surprise many people that Christchurch and its environs, especially the Estuary and oxidation ponds, are becoming the bird- watching capital of New Zealand.

We have some 300 species identified within our national boundaries (Macquarie Island to the Kermadecs), and the average observer can expect to observe and record at least 100 species within Christchurch.

In my small garden I have observed some 30 bird species, including dunnocks, swallows, finches, thrushes and gulls.

In nearby Macfarlane Park, it is usual to spot a flock of spurwing plovers, the four introduced finches, and magpies, gulls, swallows and assorted species.

Birds are a delight and the council and staff must be congratulated for their efforts (native plantings, etc) to attract birdlife.

THOMAS J. PACKER Shirley