The final day

A lie in was called for today, and a full breakfast at 7.30 am.

After a rather too English style of cooked breakfast it was off for some culture - much to Phil's annoyance.   Still there was a possibility of a few feathers to keep him happy.    First we went to the Capitol Bulding, which was been built in lovely grounds, the grass could have been longer, but then with all these places

The capitol building

they think they need to manicure the landscape to within a inch of it's life - Malcolm would not be happy - nowhere for his insects and galls!

Next the National Museum where the history of PNG and its people was shown in various forms.   There were apparently some caged birds and animals outside, but I declined.   Soon we were back in the gardens, not much time to birdwatch but here was had Helmeted Friarbird, Singing Starling, and a Munia of sorts, but unidentified after a far too fleeting a glimpse.

Next came a visit to the National Park, a sort of wildlife theme park, again more caged animals and birds, sadly the only things with any form of hint at education were the cassowaries, but then at least they were in a reasonably large compound.   Kept singly and scrapping about on mud under the shade of some trees - not ideal but potentially better than the pot!

Here were Yellow-Faced Mynahs, House Sparrows, more Friarbirds and a unidentified Honeyeater.

Electus Parrot in captivity

A long laborious trip across town, straight into a traffic jam, but it took us for a five minute "twitch" at the coast for Lesser Frigatebirds, Crested Terns and more House Sparrow.

Lunch on Nigel . . . 

We were now late for our check-out at the hotel.   We had an extension until 11.30 am.   Unfortunately the hotel did not take any notice and had taken our bath towels, leaving two of us with one small hand towel to dry ourselves with after a shower! They had also allowed our keys to lapse so we had to get a maid to let us back in.

After a very hasty shower and packing session we were off to the airport for our flight to Singapore.   Although three-quarters of an hour late leaving, we have five hours to pass in Transit so hopefully all will be well.