Subdesert mesite Subdesert mesite The subdesert mesite ("Monias benschi") is a ground-dwelling bird endemic to Madagascar. It is one of three species in the mesite family Mesitornithidae, and is restricted in distribution to a small low-land region in southwest Madagascar. The subdesert mesite is a medium-sized terrestrial bird which is often described as rail-like (a family with which the mesites are sometimes placed). The species has a long and downward-curved bill distinguishing it from the other members of the family. Both sexes are greyish above and show thin white eyebrows. Both have white underparts; the male has black crescent-shaped spots on the
Bird Island Nature Reserve shores. Dolphins, seals, turtles and other large animals may be seen near the island. Humpback whales swim near the island during their annual migration to and from Antarctica. A number of shipwrecks occurred at or near Bird Island. They include the "Adelaide" and "Allenwood". Bird Island Nature Reserve The Bird Island Nature Reserve is a protected nature reserve located near Lake Munmorah on the Central Coast region of New South Wales, Australia. The island is situated off the east coast of New South Wales, within the Tasman Sea. The reserve may be seen from the lighthouse at Norah Head. The