A Bird Watchers Paradise

17 Mar

SOUNDS OF THE OUTBACK

From lush riverbanks to arid plains and everywhere in between, the Brewarrina Shire is alive with birdsong. Whether you’re a seasoned birder or a curious observer, the rich diversity and abundance of birdlife make this part of Australia an unforgettable bird watchers paradise.

You can spot more thousands of birds in their natural habitat, including:

Waterbirds such as Pelicans, Egrets, Spoonbills, Black Swans and sleek Cormorants drying their wings along the riverbanks
Raptors including Wedge‑Tailed Eagles, Kites and Falcons riding the thermals above the plains
Songbirds and bush birds like Fairy‑Wrens, Honeyeaters, Finches and colourful Cockatiels moving in lively flocks across the open country
Migratory species including the Sacred Kingfisher, Rainbow Bee Eater and Channel Billed Cuckoo that follow the life‑giving waterways during seasonal movements

The RAMSAR-listed Narran Lakes wetlands to the east of Brewarrina are a major breeding site for over 10,000 birds, including rare species like the Plains-Wanderer, Brolga and Freckled Duck.

Although closed to the public most of the time to protect the significant breeding and nesting area, an annual open day is held every May, allowing the public to access this truly spectacular natural wonder.

The wetlands are also a significant place for local Aboriginal people and the traditional lands of the Yuwaalaraay/Euahalia people. Called Dhwarriwaa which means ‘Meeting Place’ tribes from across the region, including the Gomilaroi, Baranbinya, Murrawari, Ngyiimpaa/Wongiabon, Ngemba, Gwambiraay, Wielwan, and Cooma/Gwamu, would gather on the invitation of the Yuwaalaraay, for cultural business coinciding with large bird breeding, wetting and seasonal events.

Explore

Find out more on the Narran Lakes Nature Reserve Open Day from nationalparks.nsw.gov.au.

P: 02 6792 7300

E:npws.barwon@environment.nsw.gov.au

Highlights

You’ll find more than 10,000 bird species
Spot threatened species like Blue-Billed Duck, Freckled Duck and the majestic Brolga
Home to the incredibly rare and intriguing Plains-Wanderer
Best times for spotting are at sunrise or sunset or after rain
Don’t forget your binoculars and camera