Mermaid Pool, Manly

Variegated Fairywren

The Variegated Fairywren, a vibrant small bird, is a delightful sight at Mermaid Pool near Manly Dam. Males display striking blue and black feathers, while females and non-breeding males are more subdued in colour. These energetic, social birds flit through the dense vegetation of the area, foraging for insects and seeds. The rich bushland surrounding the pool provides an ideal habitat, making it a perfect spot for birdwatchers to enjoy glimpses of these charming wrens.

Photographed using

Variegated Fairywren

The Variegated Fairywren, often considered one of Australia’s most enchanting small birds, can sometimes be spotted in the lush surroundings of Mermaid Pool near Manly Dam. Known for its vibrant blue and black feathers, the male Variegated Fairywren stands out, especially during the breeding season when their colours are at their brightest. Females and non-breeding males, on the other hand, are more muted in brown tones, with only a hint of blue on their wings.

These tiny, energetic birds flit through the underbrush, hopping between low shrubs and small trees in search of insects and seeds. They are social creatures, often seen in small groups, and their quick, darting movements are accompanied by soft, high-pitched calls.

The Mermaid Pool provides the perfect backdrop for spotting these wrens. Surrounded by native bushland, the area is rich in the dense vegetation that the Variegated Fairywren loves. As you walk through the trails, listen for their delicate calls or catch a glimpse of their bright colours darting through the foliage. Birdwatching at this location offers a wonderful connection to nature, with these little wrens providing a real highlight for any visitor.

More Subjects

Blue-Faced Honeyeater

During my Road Trip to Broome, I made a pit stop at Mataranka and decided to pay a visit to the Mataranka

Rainbow Bee-Eater

During my visit to the Parry Lagoons Nature Reserve in Western Australia, I was excited to see plenty of water birds, and

Yellow-Throated Miner

The Yellow-throated Miner (Manorina flavigula), which is also known as the Yellow-throated Honeyeater, is a medium-sized honeyeater with a length of about

Kookaburras

Still putting the Tamron 150-500mm lens through its paces down in the bushland of Georges Head, I had more Kookaburras that sat

Sydney Surfers

Without even planning a photo shoot, a mate and I on a casual day out ended up in the southern part of

Gerbera Macro

After watching a number of very talented macro photographers do their thing on YouTube, I thought I would give it a go.

Click to access the login or register cheese