OLD GUILDFORDIANS
A guide to the birds
Michael Morcombe ( Sc 1951-1953 )
Michael Morcombe ’ s knowledge of , and lifelong passion for native Australian birdlife is both profound and inspiring . He purchased his first bird-watching book while he was a student at Guildford Grammar School and has been passionate about ornithology since . Assisted by his wife Irene , their work and contributions to the Australian ornithological community is vast and unparalleled .
Having published 44 books and many esteemed publications in his venerated career , Michael ’ s work is revered by animal and nature enthusiasts and birdwatchers across the globe . The expansive array of publications is embellished with many thousands of detailed illustrations , photographs and insights apropos of bird species , nests , eggs and maps . Michael has also designed and launched a smartphone application titled ‘ Australian Birds ’, which has won many awards both nationally and internationally . The application is considered the quintessential tool for the modern bird-watcher with over 3,000
Simple bold plumage overall deep crimson with dark blue on cheeks , wings and tail
Blue , often with greenish or brown tone
Crimson rump
Olive green
Green
Green
Long tail tipped pale blue
Patchy crimson and green
high resolution images covering over 790 species . Additionally , the application has over 1,800 carefully selected and edited sound recordings for some 600 species .
Michael ’ s devotion to the conservation of the Australian environment and its many wonderful species has been recognised and celebrated on a national scale . In 2018 , Michael was bestowed with a Member of the Order of Australia ( AM ) as part of the Australia Day Honours List “ for significant
Dives away through the narrow spaces of dense forests , turning and twisting skilfully between trunks , limbs and foliage .
Outer web of primaries edged blue
Extensive blue on upper coverts , secondaries
Deep blue
service to conservation and the environment in the fields of natural history and ornithology as a photographer , illustrator , and author .”
Since 1961 , the avian expert has been a foundation member of the Wildflower Society of WA , operating out of the Armadale Branch , and he represented the Branch as president and patron from 2008- 2016 . In 2015 , Michael was awarded an Honorary Life Member of the Society .
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