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This is the second blog in a series as I continue to follow the progress of the breeding pair of Goliath Herons at Korsmans
As we eagerly await the hatching of the eggs of the breeding pair of Goliath Herons who have made their nest on a rock island at Korsmans, it has been interesting to see how the pair take turns in sitting on the nest and making sure that the nest is well maintained in anticipation of the hatching of the eggs. From information provided to me, we are expecting the eggs to hatch in the next week or so.
The pair take turns in sitting on the eggs while the other partner goes off fishing. Then at regular intervals, they swop over and the other partner departs on its fishing expedetion. Seen here is the arrival of the partner on return from its fishing expedition.
Delivering new nesting material
It quickly finds some sedge which has washed up on the side of the island and brings it to the other partner who in turn takes the sedge and carefully arranges it in the nest.
Checking the surrounds
After checking that the new nesting material has been properly placed, both birds get up and take a look around and have a quick discussion.
Chasing away a Darter
The Darter is too close for comfort. It was interesting that the Goliath's only chased away the Darter but did not bother with the other birds. The reason is possibly that a Darter is a bird that also fishes and is therefore competition for the Herons.
Swop over completed
Having made sure that it is safe to return to the nest, the other partner now inspects the nest and takes up its position whilst the other partner flies off to go fishing.
The Goliath seems to offer some words of encouragement to the eggs before settling down on the nest. It's been a long few weeks now but the wait is finally coming to an end.
