best bird watching tours australia

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Featured Wildlife Journeys

Red-tailed Black Cockatoo

Australasian Gannet

Eastern Yellow Robin

Campbell Albatross

Wedge-tailed Eagle

Black-necked Stork (Jabiru)

• Waterbirds & Waders
• Wildlife Interests

Australia has the most endemic bird species of any country on earth.

Birdwatching tours in australia.

Of all the world's  birding tour destinations, Australia consistently ranks as one of the most exotic and fascinating. 

The geological evolution of the Australian continent has shaped the extraordinary variety of birds, estimated at 828 species (45% of which are endemic) at present. In fact, it has recently been determined that no other continent has contributed so greatly to the evolution of birds, with the majority of the world’s species having Australian ancestry. Birdwatchers across the world are continually captivated by the sights, stories and sounds of Australian species along with the opportunity to photograph them in their natural habitats. There is no doubt that Australia is one of the iconic destinations when it comes to  bird watching experiences.

Australia is the birthplace of glorious songbirds and alluring parrots, with the evolutionary process contributing to the development of birds that are generally more intelligent, aggressive, loud, melodious and socially cooperative. It is also home to a range of bird families unique to the Australasian region including megapodes (mound builders), butcher birds, bowerbirds, lorikeets, lyrebirds, Australian creepers, wrens, honeyeaters and iconic cockatoos. Australia is also one of the best places to watch raptor birds as they hunt down prey and soar across breathtaking horizons.

With so many species spread across stunning and diverse habitats including tropical rainforests, coral reefs, coastal heaths, wetlands and swamps, grasslands, sandy and stony deserts and Eucalypt woodlands, it is little wonder why Australia is recognised across the globe as a birdwatchers paradise.

Wondering where the best places across Australia are to watch birds? Below you will see a list of  bird watching tours in Australia listed by season ,  that are part of the Australian Wildlife Journeys group. Our range of experienced guides accommodate many of the most popular Australian   birdwatching  regions and wildlife sites throughout the country. 

We invite you to bring your camera and binoculars, so we can share our knowledge and passion with you on these  birding tours of Australia, which also feature beautifully appointed accommodation options, outstanding culinary offerings and fabulous hospitality. 

Search for birding tours using the seasonal viewing opportunities calendar further down the page or by using the search toolbar directly below:

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Daintree Exclusive

From $1,650 AUD

This full day tour focuses on the World Heritage Listed Daintree National Park, the largest section of tropical rainforest in Australia and oldest continually surviving rainforest in the world. Guests will be mesmerised by the combination of waterfalls, mountain ranges, idyllic streams, deep gorges and dense rainforest, that makes this...

• Southern Eyre Peninsula Birdwatching

From $1,780 AUD

3 days/2 nights

Home to 270 species of birds and 1900 native plant species, this tour across the Southern Eyre Peninsula traverses coastal dune shrublands, mallee woodlands, sandflats, saltmarsh, subcoastal and clifftops. There are opportunities to observe waders and seabirds including Little Pied and Black Cormorants, Grey and Chestnut Teal Ducks, Pink Eared...

• 1 Day Birdwatching Mt Field National Park

From $750 AUD

Day Tour - Tasmania

Mount Field National Park is the oldest in Tasmania and one of the most diverse. You will have the opportunity to try and spot 11 out of the 12 Tasmanian endemic species. Highlights include the Tasmanian Native Hen, Scrubtit, Yellow Wattlebird, Black Currawong and Tasmanian Thornbill across this park featuring ...

• Murray River Safari

From $3,300 AUD

4 days/3 nights

Experience the diverse wildlife offerings where Australia's river oasis meets the outback. This multi-activity wildlife safari along Australia's greatest river includes guided walks, canoeing, an outback drive and open back cruising, combined with luxurious houseboat accommodation and superb dining including local wines. Spot Koalas, Kangaroos, Australian Pelicans, Royal Spoonbills, Black...

Viewing opportunities that include birds

Green Rosella

March,April,May, Maria Island

Maria Island - Autumn Sightings by Bird Group

How to find these species.

“Residents of the island that can be sighted in the lead up to winter include Yellow-tailed Black Cockatoos, Cape Barren Geese, Tasmanian Native Hens, Green Rosellas, Grey Fantails, Flame Robins, Golden Whistlers, Eastern Spinebills and the Beautiful Firetail. Pacific, Kelp and Silver Gulls, Crested Terns, Little Pied and Great Cormorants and Australian Pelicans are common sights across our white sandy beaches, feeding on small surface fish, squid, crabs, insects and other aquatic prey. One of the largest eagles in the world with wingspan of 2.3m, the Tasmanian subspecies of the Wedge-tailed Eagle are often seen soaring in pairs around the island's peaks."

Ben Brown , General Manager Operations

Suggested Tour: The Maria Island Walk

Duration:  4 Days/3 Nights Type:  Shared

Available:  October - late April 

This four day guided walk across magnificent Maria Island, combines intimate wildlife encounters, fascinating history, pristine white sand beaches, and locally sourced gourmet food.

Full Itinerary

Tours in Maria Island related to Birds

• The Maria Island Walk

Scarlet Robin (Female)

January,February,December, Maria Island

Maria Island - Summer Sightings by Bird Group

“The endemic Forty-spotted Pardalote can be seen living in community groups around our wilderness camps, enjoying the flowering White Gums forests. We also keep an eye out for the Black-headed and Strong-billed Honeyeaters around the browntop stringybarks.

A number of migrants from the mainland can be seen on the island including Swift Parrots, Fan-tailed Cuckoos, Satin Flycatchers, Yellow-rumped Thornbills, Tree Martins and Dusky Woodswallows."

Duration:  4 Days/3 Nights Type:  Shared  Available:  October - late April 

Tasmanian Native Hen

June,July,August, Maria Island

Maria Island - Winter Sightings by Bird Group

Suggested tour: maria island winter escape.

Duration:  3 Nights/2 nights Type:  Shared

Available:  June - late August

The 'Maria Island Winter Escape' is a three day lodge based experience which explores the beautiful and historic northern end of the island featuring abundant marsupials.

• Maria Island Winter Escape Walk

White-bellied Sea Eagle

September,October,November, Maria Island

Maria Island - Spring Sightings by Bird Group

Spring is also the time we see the incredible migration of Short-tailed Shearwaters,  with Bass Strait and the south east coast of Tasmania coming alive with 18 million individuals, commonly seen from the cliffs and beaches on the island."

Mulga Parrot

June,July,August, Mungo National Park

Mungo - Winter Sightings by Bird Group

Roger Smith , Tour Guide

Suggested Tour: Private Mungo Outback Journey

Duration: 4 Days/3 Nights Type: Private 

This private outback adventure explores the magnificent Lake Mungo in the Willandra Lakes World Heritage Area. The region has been continuously occupied by Aboriginal People since that time, the longest known occupation of any land by any people on earth.

Tours in Mungo National Park related to Birds

• Private Mungo Outback Journey

Mallee Ringneck

March,April,May, Mungo National Park

Mungo - Autumn Sightings by Bird Group

Red-capped Robin

September,October,November, Mungo National Park

Mungo - Spring Sightings by Bird Group

Black-shouldered Kite

January,February,December, Eyre Peninsula

Eyre Peninsula - Summer Sightings by Bird Group

“Summer is the nesting season for Pied Oystercatchers, Hooded Dotterels, Red-capped Plovers so we explore several local beaches on the peninsula at this time, whilst keeping a lookout for the migratory Common Greenshank after their enormous flights from the Northern Hemisphere.

A visit to Big Swamp provides sanctuary for Black Swans, Grey Teal Ducks, Chestnut Teal Ducks, Pink Eared Ducks, Musk Ducks and Black Winged Stilts and at Mikkira and Lincoln National Park, Port Lincoln (Australian Ringneck) Parrots, Common Bronzewings, Striated Pardalotes, Spiney-Cheeked Honeyeaters and White-Browed Scrubwrens abundant. Pallid Cuckoos also migrate to the peninsula over the Summer."

Fran Solly , Birding Specialist Guide

Suggested Tour: Southern Eyre Peninsula Birdwatching

Duration: 3 Days/2 Nights Type: Private, Shared Departures available seasonally

Home to 270 species of birds and 1900 native plant species, this tour across the Southern Eyre Peninsula traverses coastal dune shrublands, mallee woodlands, sandflats, saltmarsh, subcoastal and clifftops.

Tours in Eyre Peninsula related to Birds

Port Lincoln Parrot

March,April,May, Eyre Peninsula

Eyre Peninsula - Autumn Sightings by Bird Group

“A small flock of remnant Yellow-tailed Black Cockatoos aggregate post breeding during the Autumn and Port Lincoln (Australian Ringneck) Parrots, Australian Magpies, Galahs, Red Wattlebirds, Black-Faced Cuckoo-shrikes, Masked Lapwings, Western Whistlers and an occasional Scarlet Robin can be seen across Port Lincoln National Park and Mikkira.

It's always a joy to showcase the rugged cliffs along the Great Australian Bight to view Osprey and White Bellied Sea-Eagles along with other raptors including kites and Swamp Harriers.  In beautiful Memory Cove, birds that may be encountered include Purple-Gaped Honeyeaters, Striated Pardalotes, Spiney-Cheeked Honeyeaters, Dusky Woodswallows, Western Yellow Robins, Blue-breasted Fairy-wrens and White-Browed Scrubwrens.

September,October,November, Eyre Peninsula

Eyre Peninsula - Spring Sightings by Bird Group

"White-bellied Sea Eagles and Osprey nest along our spectacular coastal cliff habitats and rocky offshore islands, with young typically fledging late in Spring.

It's an amazing time to spot many of our bushbirds in the national parks, including Striated Pardalotes, Western Yellow Robins, Western Whistlers, White-Browed Babblers, Red Wattlebirds, Black-faced Cuckoo Shrikes, New Holland Honeyeaters, Brown-Headed Honey Eaters along with Port Lincoln and Rock Parrots. We also spend some time looking for some of the rarer species including Scarlet Robins, Diamond Firetails, Southern Emu-wrens and Western Whipbirds and the migratory Wood Sandpiper and Latham's Snipe."

Duration: 3 Days/2 Nights Type: Private, Shared Departures available seasonally

June,July,August, Eyre Peninsula

Eyre Peninsula - Winter Sightings by Bird Group

"We take guests out to Big Swamp over this season, to see a wide variety of waterbirds, with many commencing their nesting season. Black Swans, Grey Teal Ducks, Chestnut Teal Ducks, Pink Eared Ducks, Musk Ducks, Black Winged Stilts, Banded Plovers and Cape Barren Geese are all possible encounters.

Across Coffin Bay National Park, there are active Osprey and White-bellied Sea Eagle nests, with pairs often seen fishing along the cliffs and sandy white beaches.  The area is also home to Caspian Terns, Hooded Plovers, Red Capped Plovers, Red Necked Stints, Golden Whistlers, Masked Lapwings, Emus and Wedge-tailed Eagles.  There is also a chance to see the elusive Southern Emu-Wren and a remnant flock of Yellow-tailed Black Cockatoos."

Beautiful Firetail

March,April,May, Tasmania

Tasmania - Autumn Sightings by Bird Group

“By April, we see millions of Short-tailed Shearwaters leave the Tasmanian coast on their migration flight to the sub-Arctic region around Alaska, along with other migratory waders such as, Ruddy Turnstones, Red-necked Stints, Common Greenshanks and Eastern Curlews also departing at this time.

Beautiful Firetails can be seen feeding on the ground on various seeds, being most prevalent in coastal areas. Although this species is also located on the mainland, it is most prolific in Tasmania and the Bass Strait islands. Another well known endemic is the Green Rosella, Australia's largest rosella. This beautifully coloured bird occurs throughout a wide range of forest types, from the mountains to the coast."

Elise Tardieu , Specialist Guide

Suggested Tour: 9 Day Western Wilderness & Wildlife Encounter

Duration:  9 Days/8 Nights Type: Private, Shared Departures

On the east coast, experience a mix of beautiful eucalypt forests, spectacular coastlines, and tranquil bays, including Maria Island, Freycinet Peninsula, Bay of Fires and Cataract Gorge. On the west coast, visit incredible alpine regions, the contrasting east and west coastlines, Cradle Mountain National Park, quaint fishermen villages and old mining towns.

Tours in Tasmania related to Birds

• 9 Day Western Wilderness & Wildlife Encounter
• 4 Day Private Tour Tasmania Wildlife Encounter

June,July,August, Tasmania

Tasmania - Winter Sightings by Bird Group

“The winter provides fanstastic access to many of our endemic birds in the woodlands and Eucalypt forests, including Forty-spotted Pardalotes, Green Rosellas, Tasmanian Thornbills, Dusky Robins, Yellow Wattlebirds along with Strong-billed, Yellow-throated and Black-headed Honeyeaters. Native Tasmanian Hens also begin breeding in July with hens laying around five eggs and there racous displays are always a treat for guests.

Other bushbirds that are popular with visitors at this time include Spotted Pardalotes, Crescent and New Holland Honeyeaters, Brush Bronzewings, Golden Whistlers and Eastern Spinebills and Flame Robins that generally move into lower and more open areas at this time."

Pacific Gull

September,October,November, Tasmania

Tasmania - Spring Sightings by Bird Group

“Spring sees a number of migrant birds arrive after their flight from the mainland across Bass Strait. The calls of cuckoos are prevalent, with Fan-tailed, Pallid and Shining Bronze Cuckoos migrating to our isle, and laying their eggs in the nests of Superb Fairy-wrens, Satin Flycatchers and Yellow-rumped Thornbills.

Welcome Swallows, Tree Martins, Dusky Woodswallows, Striated Pardalotes, Grey Fantails and Silvereyes are other welcome visitors, along with the vividly coloured Swift Parrot that breed at the same time as the flowering of the Tasmanian Blue Gums. Another one of the world's great wildlife migrations occurs between September and April, along Bass Strait and the southeast coast of Tasmania, as the region comes alive with 18 million Short-tailed Shearwaters."

Little Penguin

January,February,December, Tasmania

Tasmania - Summer Sightings by Bird Group

“Little Penguins breed along the coastline during the summer months and we get special access to these incredible seabirds at Bicheno. Along our east coast it's also a terrific time to spot nesting shorebirds, with Kelp Gulls, Pacific Gulls, Silver Gulls, Pied Oystercatchers, Hooded Dotterels, Crested Terns and Fairy Terns the most commonly sighted.

A number of migratory waders arrive in Tasmania over the summer months after long journeys from the Arctic Circle including Short-tailed Shearwaters, Eastern Curlews, Curlew Sandpipers, Ruddy Turnstones, Red-necked Stints and Common Greenshanks. On our inland tours covering the rainforests and sub-alpine regions, Black Currawongs, Green Rosellas, Olive Whistlers and Pink Robins are target species we often spot with our guests."

March,April, Bremer Bay

Bremer Bay - Autumn Sightings by Bird Group

Suggested tour: bremer canyon killer whale expedition.

Duration: Full day Type:  Shared

The Bremer Canyon has become one of the most sought-after whale watching expeditions across the globe, with over 100 Killer Whales (Orcas) returning to the submarine canyon each year from December to April; the only place in Australia where you can regularly encounter Killer Whales in the wild.

Tours in Bremer Bay related to Birds

• Bremer Canyon Killer Whale Expedition

Wandering Albatross

January,February,December, Bremer Bay

Bremer Bay - Summer Sightings by Bird Group

Daniel Mantle , Birding Specialist Guide

Suggested Tour: Bremer Bay Bird Expedition

Duration: Full day Type:  Shared - set departure dates.

In December a series of birdwatching trips out to the Bremer Canyon with experienced seabird guides. This is a rare opportunity to use Naturaliste Charter's whale watching catamaran, the Alison Maree, before the start of the main Orca tour season.

Full Itinerary & Booking

Buff Banded-Rail

September,October,November, Frankland Islands National Park

Frankland Islands - Summer Sightings by Bird Group

Suggested tour: frankland islands reef cruises day tour.

Duration: Full Day Type: Shared or Private 

Spend the day at one of the most beautiful snorkelling locations on the Great Barrier Reef, with the opportunity to experience World Heritage-listed rivers, rainforests and reefs. Leave the crowds behind and enjoy exclusive access to the hidden treasure that is the Frankland Islands National Park.

Tours in Frankland Islands National Park related to Birds

• Frankland Islands Reef Cruises Day Tour

Black-necked Stork

March,April,May, Frankland Islands National Park

Frankland Islands - Autumn Sightings by Bird Group

Beach Stone-Curlew

January,February,December, Frankland Islands National Park

Australian Figbird

June,July,August, Frankland Islands National Park

Frankland Islands - Winter Sightings by Bird Group

June,July,August, Margaret River

Augusta - Winter Sightings by Bird Group

Suggested tour: deep water augusta birdwatching.

Following the very successful winter seabird trips ('pelagics') run from Augusta in 2021 and 2022, we have organised two further pelagics departing from Augusta this July. These will be run back-to-back on Saturday 20th and Sunday 21 July and will have 4 experienced seabird guides on board.

Tours in Margaret River related to Birds

• Augusta Whale Watching

Regent Parrot

September,October,November, Riverland, South Australia

Riverland - Spring Sightings by Bird Group

The Rainbow Bee-eaters are fascinating as you can set your clock by them. They arrive from northern Australia in the first week of October and stay until the first week in April. They come here to breed and dig out tiny tunnels in the sandy cliffs found on either side of the river valley. They build their nests inside those tunnels."

Tony Sharley , Lead Guide

Suggested Tour: Murray River Safari

Duration: 4 Days/3 Nights Type: Shared 

Experience the diverse wildlife offerings where Australia's river oasis meets the outback. This multi-activity wildlife safari along Australia's greatest river includes guided walks, canoeing, an outback drive and open back cruising, combined with luxurious houseboat accommodation and superb dining including local wines.

Tours in Riverland, South Australia related to Birds

Royal Spoonbill

June,July,August, Riverland, South Australia

Riverland - Winter Sightings by Bird Group

Suggested tour: murray river walk.

Immerse yourself in four easy days of hiking along Australia's greatest river. Exploring this river oasis that brings life to the outback, friendly guides will share the region's incredible birdlife, marsupials and reptiles.

• Murray River Walk

Australasian Darter

March,April,May, Riverland, South Australia

Riverland - Autumn Sightings by Bird Group

January,February,December, Kangaroo Island

Kangaroo Island -  Summer Sightings by Bird Group

“As natural water catchments dry up in the summer months, the Kangaroo Island's birds tend to congregate around fresh inland lagoons, and coastal marine esturaries, where food and water is more accessible. As Kangaroo Island locals, we have some secret locations where we can rely on encounters with Black Swans, Yellow-billed Spoonbills, Common Greenshanks and Freckled Ducks, to name a few. Broad beaches like Seal Bay are populated by large flocks of Crested Terns with smart black caps, often accompanied by a couple of massive Caspian Terns, identified by their bright red bills, contrasting the yellow bills of the Crested Terns."

Blair Wickham , Tour Guide

Suggested tour: Kangaroo Island Birding Tour (Wild About Birds)

Duration: 3 Days/2 Nights Type: Private only Departs: On request This three day Kangaroo Island birdwatching and wildlife tour is presented with an indicative itinerary. Opportunities vary throughout the year and each season is slightly different in terms of natural cycles. The experience delivered is customised according to the season and fine-tuned to meet the interests of guests once they arrive on the Island. Full Itinerary

Tours in Kangaroo Island related to Birds

• Kangaroo Island Birding Tour
• Flinders Chase Focus
• Island Life

Yellow-tailed Black Cockatoo

March,April,May, Kangaroo Island

Kangaroo Island -  Autumn Sightings by Bird Group

"As the days begin to cool in Autumn/Fall, the endemic and endangered Kangaroo Island Glossy Black-Cockatoos begin selecting their nesting hollows in large Sugar Gums in preparation for their annual breeding season from April to June. Larger Yellow-tailed Black Cockatoos aggregate post breeding, with flocks of over 100 birds sometimes seen. Black Swamp in Flinders Chase National Park comes alive with activity as Cape Barron Geese also choose their nesting territories."

Blair Wickham , Tour Guide 

June,July,August, Kangaroo Island

Kangaroo Island -  Winter Sightings by Bird Group

"Welcome rains after a dry summer and autumn spurs birds into nesting. Black Swans pull together large nests and start incubating, with both parents sharing the load of raising the cygnets. In Flinders Chase National Park, Cape Barren Geese nest in native iris tussocks with parents keeping an eye out for predatory Australian Ravens and Wedge-tailed Eagles. It's always a delight seeing  Scarlet R obins when we visit sheoak woodlands, waiting for insect activity and drop to the ground in a flash."

Duration: 3 Days/2 Nights Type: Private only Departs: On request

This three day Kangaroo Island birdwatching and wildlife tour is presented with an indicative itinerary. Opportunities vary throughout the year and each season is slightly different in terms of natural cycles. The experience delivered is customised according to the season and fine-tuned to meet the interests of guests once they arrive on the Island.

White-eared Honeyeater

September,October,November, Kangaroo Island

Kangaroo Island -  Spring Sightings by Bird Group

March,April,May, Kakadu & Arnhem Land

Kakadu & Arnhem Land - Autumn Sightings by Bird Group

"By the end of the northern tropical summer (locally known as the wet season), native speargrasses have grown up to three metres high, providing plenty of seeds for Red-winged Parrots, Double-barred, Star, Crimson and Long-tailed Finches to feed upon. After their migration from southern areas, large flocks of Red-tailed Cockatoos can be heard screeching and flashing their vibrant banded tails, as they migrate from southern areas in flocks of up to one hundred birds. The Dollarbird is also commonly seen feeding insects before making the flight to the islands of New Guinea to spend the winter."

Sab Lord , Tour Guide

Suggested tour: Kakadu Birding Tour

Duration: 3 Days/2 Nights Type:  Groups, Private Charter Departs: On request

The World Heritage Listed Kakadu National Park is one of the most pristine environments left on the planet and the combination of soil floodplains, paper bark swamps, savannah woodlands, monsoonal rainforests and river mangroves make this one of the world's great birdwatching sites, with over 280 species found across the region.

Tours in Kakadu & Arnhem Land related to Birds

• Three Day Kakadu & Arnhem Land
• Ultimate Luxury Safari Adventure
• Kakadu Birding Tour

Magpie Geese

June,July,August, Kakadu & Arnhem Land

Kakadu & Arnhem Land - Winter Sightings by Bird Group

"Magpie Geese are spread far and wide over the pristine floodplains at this time including Bamurru, having laid their eggs with a typical clutch of 5-14 eggs. Some males mate with two females, all of which raise the young, unlike other polygamous birds. We often see White-bellied Sea Eagles, Brahminy and Whistling Kites target newly hatched chicks from the skies above, with one of the best opportunities to see their aerial skills at Yellow Waters. The alluring Azure Kingfisher also waits patiently along the waterways across both Kakadu & Arnhem Land on its fishing missions. We also stop across different areas to witness huge flocks of Plumed Whistling, Wandering Whistling and Spotted Whistling Ducks, all plucking on tropical grasses in between uttering their high pitched whistles."

Comb-crested Jacana

September,October,November, Kakadu & Arnhem Land

Kakadu & Arnhem Land - Spring Sightings by Bird Group

"As the end of the dry season approaches, the shrinking floodplains bring together a higher concentration of waterbirds, providing excellent opportunities to spot several duck species, egrets, Royal Spoonbills, Black-winged Stilts and the Black-necked Storks (locally known as the Jabirus).

One of the most famous meeting rituals in the bird kingdom is common at this time as Brolgas gather in the wetlands across the region. The Blue-winged Kookaburra changes its diet with the drier conditions and we are fortunate to have a family group adjacent to our Kakadu Tented Camp."

Christmas Island Goshawk

January,February,December, Christmas Island

Christmas Island -  Summer Sightings by Bird Group

Suggested tour: christmas island birdwatching.

Duration:  8 Days/7 Nights Type:  Groups, Private Charter Departs:  On request

Christmas Island is one of Australia's best birdwatching destinations. An internationally renowned seabird rookery, the island attracts about 80,000 nesting seabirds every year. You will have the opportunity to see the world's rarest booby and frigatebird.

full itinerary

Tours in Christmas Island related to Birds

• Christmas Island Birdwatching
• Bird & Nature Week Christmas Island
• Christmas Island Ultimate Wildlife

Red-footed Booby

September,October,November, Christmas Island

Christmas Island -  Spring Sightings by Bird Group

Abbott's Booby

March,April,May, Christmas Island

Christmas Island -  Autumn Sightings by Bird Group

Java Sparrow

June,July,August, Christmas Island

Christmas Island -  Winter Sightings by Bird Group

Buff-breasted Paradise Kingfisher

January,February,December, Cairns

Cairns & Far North Queensland - Summer Sightings by Bird Group

“Far North Queensland experiences abundant rainfall, especially in summer, making it a haven for birdlife. At the onset of summer, the Mareeba wetlands witness the arrival of brolgas, numbering anywhere from 150 to 200. Agriculture on the tablelands provides ample viewing opportunities. The awe-inspiring Buff-breasted Paradise-Kingfishers arrive from New Guinea during their nesting season, seeking arboreal termite mounds for egg-laying. The landscape comes alive with flowering, attracting insect-eating birds like the Eastern Yellow Robin, Pale-yellow Robin, Lemon-bellied Flycatcher, and the stunning Spectacled Monarch."

James Boettcher , Tour Guide

Suggested tour: Tropical Wetlands Birdwatching

Duration:  Full day Type:  Groups, private charter, shared Departs: On request

FNQ Nature Tours has exclusive access to the Shared Earth Reserve, encompassing 5000 acres of lagoons, trails, bird hides and dirt roads containing an abundance of bird watching opportunities. With more than 450 Avian Species recorded across this area and surrounds (more than half of Australia's total bird count), including 12 Endemics, it's Australia's twitching mecca! Full Itinerary

As many as 200  Brolgas  are often observed feeding in the wetlands and agricultural regions. The colourful  Buff-breasted Paradise Kingfisher  returns from New Guinea to begin nesting, where they lay eggs in arboreal termite mounds. As many plants and trees begin to flower, insect activity increases which attracts the insect-eating birds such as  Shrike-thrushes ,  Shining Flycatchers ,  Grey-headed Robins and  Spectacled Monarchs .  Chestnut-breasted Mannikins ,  Crimson Finches  and  Red-backed Fairywrens  can also be observed feeding on grass seeds.

Tours in Cairns related to Birds

• Tropical Wetlands Birdwatching
• 5 Day Birdwatching North Queensland

Victoria's Riflebird

September,October,November, Cairns

Cairns & Far North Queensland - Common Spring Sightings by Bird Group

“Spring heralds a time of exuberance in nature. It's a cacophony of calls, courtship, and vibrant activity in the rainforest. The dawn chorus reaches its peak in spring, creating a symphony of sounds that is a joy to experience. Venturing on our private Tablelands tour onto the Atherton Tablelands, we are treated to the captivating Noisy Pitta, producing delightful sounds amidst the colorful understory of the rainforest. It's an opportune moment for cassowaries, with the Southern Cassowary, unique to the Wet Tropics, possibly showcasing its young. In the savannah's understory, the Crimson Finch and Red-backed Fairywren add splashes of color to the landscape."

This is the loudest time of year, with breeding season in full swing for most species. The dawn chorus is deafening, with the wonderful sounds of the  Noisy Pitta  and the  Yellow Oriole,  while courtship displays from the  Victoria’s Riflebird  can be observed. The colourful  Buff-breasted Paradise Kingfisher  returns from New Guinea to breed, while the  Channel-billed Cuckoo ,  Brush Cuckoo  and the  Common Koel  announce the arrival of spring with their own choruses. The understory of the rainforest is popping with colour, as the endangered  Southern Cassowaries  are out with their young chicks. The growth of grass seed provides food for the smaller species such as the  Crimson Finch ,  Red-browed Finch  and  Red-backed Fairywren .

Satin Bowerbird

June,July,August, Cairns

Cairns & Far North Queensland - Common Winter Sightings by Bird Group

“Winter emerges as the 'golden time of the year' for birdwatching. The cool morning and afternoon weather prompts birds to ascend higher into the trees, creating a perfect viewing opportunity. As the melaleucas and gums bloom, the early morning hours reveal a flurry of activity, with numerous honeyeaters, including the Eastern Yellow Robin, Pale-yellow Robin, Leaden Flycatcher, Lemon-bellied Flycatcher, and the Shining Flycatcher. Pardalotes are a common sight, with three species - the Striated, Spotted, and Red-browed Pardalote. Transitioning from savannah to rainforest, bowerbirds like the Tooth-billed and Golden Bowerbird showcase elaborate courtship displays."

Due to the cooler winter temperatures, birds like the Grey Goshawk   and Rufous Owl  spend more time higher in the rainforest canopy in direct sunlight, which provides great photography opportunities. The flowering of Melaleucas and Eucalyptus brings a lot of activity, with numerous honeyeaters including  Blue-faced Honeyeaters ,  Yellow-tinted Honeyeaters  and  Lewin's Honeyeaters . This flowering also brings out insects and hence insect-eaters like  Eastern Yellow Robins ,  Satin Flycatchers  and  Lemon-bellied Flyrobins . Other species on display are  Spotted Pardalotes ,  Striated Pardalotes  and  Red-browed Pardalotes . Courtship displays from  Tooth-billed Bowerbirds  are iconic encounters within the rainforest habitat.

Sacred Kingfisher

March,April,May, Cairns

Cairns & Far North Queensland - Autumn Sightings by Bird Group

“It's an exceptionally delightful time to be here. The wet season has just concluded, resulting in an abundance of greenery and stunning, explosive scenery that is ideal for bird life. Embarking on our Daintree tour, cruising along the river on our private solar electric boat, we may encounter the enchanting Wompoo Fruit Dove or the elegant Rose-crowned Fruit Dove. Along the Daintree River, we witness the Azure Kingfisher and Sacred Kingfisher, recently arrived from the southern regions, engaging in crab fishing. The Eastern Yellow Robin, Pale-yellow Robin, Olive-backed Sunbird, and the vibrant Leaden and Lemon-bellied Flycatchers are all remarkably active during this season."

The  Sacred Kingfisher  migrates from the southern states of Australia, which can be seen along the Daintree River feeding on fish and crabs. The beautiful, vibrant colours of the rainforest are evident at this time of year following the wet season, with  Eastern Yellow Robins ,  Wompoo Fruit Doves  and  Rose-crowned Fruit Doves  are common encounters. Other birds found at this time include insect-eaters such as the  Leaden Flycatcher ,  Shining Flycatcher and Lemon-bellied Flyrobins . The Daintree also provides critical habitat for the endangered  Southern Cassowary , which can be found throughout the year.

Brown Booby

July,August, Hervey Bay

Hervey Bay - Winter Sightings by Bird Group

Suggested tour: ultimate hervey bay whale watching.

Duration: 3 hours Type: Shared or Private 

Explore the world's first declared Whale Heritage Site at Hervey Bay, known for coming alive with thousands of Humpback Whales between July and October. This region is known for having some of the most active and inquisitive whales found anywhere across the globe, with breaches, whale songs and muggings common practice.

Tours in Hervey Bay related to Birds

• Ultimate Hervey Bay Whale Watching
• Hervey Bay Private Charter

Royal Spoonbills

March,April,May, Hervey Bay

Hervey Bay - Autumn Sightings by Bird Group

Suggested tour: hervey bay nature cruise.

Duration: 2 hours Type: Shared or Private 

Explore the best of the Great Sandy Marine Park in the spectacular morning light, led by knowledgeable Marine Naturalists. The region's remarkable mix of picturesque bays, seagrass meadows, salt marshes, mangroves and sandy beaches provide habitat to abundant birdlife, turtles and dolphins.

• Hervey Bay Nature Cruise

September,October, Hervey Bay

Hervey Bay - Spring Sightings by Bird Group

January,February,December, Hervey Bay

Hervey Bay - Summer Sightings by Bird Group

Shining Bronze Cuckoo

September,October,November, East Gippsland

East Gippsland -  Spring Sightings by Bird Group

Suggested tour: East Gippsland Wildlife Journey

Duration:  4 Days/3 Nights Type:  Shared, Private

Venturing across East Gippsland's magnificent lush rainforests, coastal heathlands, giant eucalypt groves, white sandy beaches and pristine rivers and estuaries, this four day immersive adventure offers you encounters with an incredible array of species.

Tours in East Gippsland related to Birds

• East Gippsland Wildlife Journey

King Parrot

January,February,December, East Gippsland

East Gippsland -  Summer Sightings by Bird Group

Powerful Owl

March,April,May, East Gippsland

East Gippsland -  Autumn Sightings by Bird Group

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Yellow Water Cruises, Kakadu National Park, Northern Territory © Tourism NT/Shaana McNaught

Birdwatching in Australia

Pack your binoculars for a close-up view of Australia’s incredible birdlife.

By Carolyn Beasley

We’ve got dazzling desert finches, aristocratic black swans, and the hefty, flightless emu. Migratory wading birds from Europe drop in for visits and 56 types of parrot chatter through every landscape. Australia is home to some 830 species of birds; an unusual bunch, with almost half of them occurring nowhere else.

You won’t need to go far to encounter our feathered friends. Even in urban areas you can’t miss the laugh of a kookaburra, or the screech of a hundred cockatoos. Whether you prefer tours or a self-drive safari, here’s how to plan your Australian birding adventure.

Near Sydney

Lord Howe Island, New South Wales © Zach Sanders

Early mornings are great for birdwatching. Most birds are more active then and will call more often, making them easier to find.  

Centennial Parklands in Sydney’s eastern suburbs provides a great introduction to the birds of Australia, with more than 120 species living in the parks and gardens dotted around the city. Join a ranger for a tour or take a leisurely stroll among the kookaburras, cockatoos, cheeky rainbow lorikeets and the purple swamphen. 

A short domestic flight away is Lord Howe Island , where the birds have no predators and are relatively fearless. The island hosts at least 168 types of resident and visiting birds, including breeding seabirds in their thousands. Conservation efforts have seen the endemic Lord Howe Island woodhen recover from near extinction, so you can enjoy the sight of these flightless rail birds for generations to come.

Near Melbourne

Penguins, Phillip Island Nature Park, Phillip Island, Victoria © Tourism Australia 

Phillip Island , less than two hours’ drive south of Melbourne , has a special place in the heart of locals and visitors alike. Each day at sunset it’s penguin parade time, as the world’s smallest (and cutest) penguins shuffle and toddle from the ocean to their burrows. Join a guided tour to see this adorable event for yourself.

About an hour’s drive east of Melbourne , the Dandenong Ranges National Park is an ideal place to spot brilliant green and red king parrots and impressive yellow-tailed black cockatoos. 

As unusual as it sounds, serious twitchers should head to Melbourne’s water treatment facility, Western Treatment Plant , where the artificially enhanced wetland supports thousands of shorebirds. Expect giant flocks of pink-eared ducks, red-necked stints and migratory sandpipers. During winter, search for the critically endangered orange-bellied parrot. Self-guided visits require a permit, so it’s best to book a tour with a specialist guide.

Near Brisbane

King Parrot, O'Reilly's Rainforest Retreat, Lamington National Park, Queensland © Tourism Australia 

The pheasant-sized lyrebird loves to copy other birds’ calls. These avian pranksters can even mimic human noises, like car alarms.

In the Scenic Rim hinterland region west of Brisbane and the Gold Coast , UNESCO World Heritage-listed Lamington National Park has rainforest reminiscent of the ancient Gondwana continent. Choose one of the hiking trails, looking out for the glossy sheen of the satin bowerbird and the star of the show, the Albert’s lyrebird with its ornate tail. 

Drop in or stay at O’Reilly’s Rainforest Retreat , a historic lodge offering guided early morning bird walks that feature whipbirds and the scrub wrens. Families will love the wild bird feeding area for close encounters with outrageously coloured rosellas, king parrots and the spectacular gold and black regent bowerbird.

Near Cairns

Southern Cassowary, FNQ Nature Tours, Daintree National Park, Queensland © FNQ Nature Tours

In Australia’s tropical north-east , Cairns is the gateway to Queensland’s Daintree Rainforest , the world’s oldest tropical rainforest. The southern cassowary, the world’s third largest bird, can be found searching for fruit within the rainforest at Cape Tribulation or perhaps in the grounds of the Daintree Discovery Centre. If you’re lucky, you may see the father bird leading his chicks. Other highlights include kingfishers around the creeks and the noisy pitta.

Don’t miss the chance to visit the Great Barrier Reef and its islands while you’re in Cairns, where you’ll find seabirds like terns and boobies. Michaelmas Cay is a raucous place, hosting up to 20,000 breeding pairs of seabirds including sooty terns, common noddies, lesser crested terns and brown boobies. The island is a national park, with only a few tour companies permitted to visit.

Near Hobart

Inala Nature Tours, Bruny Island, Tasmania © Tourism Australia

Tasmania is an island state of towering forests, bucolic farmland, and a birdwatcher’s paradise. Just over an hour south of the capital Hobart , Bruny Island is one of the best places to spot the endangered and endemic forty-spotted pardalote. Booking a tour with an experienced company like Inala Nature Tours will vastly improve your chances of finding this tiny and wonderous bird.

On Maria Island , north-east of Hobart, Cape Barren geese were introduced from elsewhere in Tasmania, along with other animals, to create a living Noah’s Ark. Today, these wild geese roam the pastures of the island , almost unafraid of humans. Endemic species live here too, like the green rosella, and look out for the Tasmanian native-hen running past at top speed, affectionately known to locals as the “turbo chook.”

Near Adelaide

Yellow-tailed Cockatoo, Cygnet River, Kangaroo Island, South Australia © Exceptional Kangaroo Island

A short hop from the coast of Adelaide is Kangaroo Island , one of the best places in Australia for wildlife, including the feathered kind. Here, you’ll find the Kangaroo Island glossy black cockatoo, the only place where this subspecies is found. Join an in-depth tour to learn about cockatoo conservation and find other birdlife, ranging from seabirds to honeyeaters. 

Three-hours’ drive north-west of Adelaide is Gluepot Reserve , a former sheep station located in semi-arid country. The reserve is owned by not-for-profit organisation BirdLife Australia , and is run by volunteers. A long list of birds can be seen here, including the malleefowl, the pastel pink Major Mitchell’s cockatoo, and the chestnut quail-thrush. The best way to visit Gluepot is with a guide who knows the habitats to search for each bird.

Emus, Exmouth, Western Australia © Tourism Western Australia

The vast west coast of Australia is sparsely populated, and birds can be seen from north to south. In the country’s north-west, the town of Broome is a two-and-a-half hour flight from Perth , and is the gateway to the wild Kimberley region. The Broome Bird Observatory is the self-proclaimed shorebird capital of Australia, where you’ll also see red-collared lorikeets, great bowerbirds and the rare yellow chat.

Halfway between Broome and Perth, the tourist town of Exmouth on Ningaloo Reef is a great place to see Australia’s largest bird, the emu, potentially sashaying around a caravan park or flouncing undeterred down the main street. To the south, offshore from the town of Geraldton, the Abrolhos Islands are one of Australia’s most important seabird nesting sites. The islands are best visited on a multi-day boat trip with informed nature guides, such as the Eco-Abrolhos.

Near Darwin

Bamurru Plains, Kakadu National Park, Northern Territory © Lords Kakadu & Arnhemland Safaris

The best time to see birds near Darwin is during the drier months of May to October. As flooded rivers contract, the birds become concentrated in smaller areas.

Just two hours’ drive south-east of Darwin in the Northern Territory is Australia’s largest national park. Kakadu National Park is home for thousands of birds such as the brolga – which engages in elaborate dance routines – flocks of thousands of magpie geese and the striking black-necked stork (also known as the jabiru). A specialist bird guide can help you find the best places in this vast wonderland so you can make the most of your time.

Near Canberra

Tidbinbilla Nature Reserve, Canberra, Australian Capital Territory © VisitCanberra

Canberra , Australia’s capital city, is known as the “bush capital” – and the Australian National Botanic Gardens is a great place to spot some Aussie bush birds, perhaps on a tour . Keep an eye out for the incredible fairy-wren; the iridescent blue male appearing digitally enhanced. Also look for the endearing grey and red gang-gang cockatoos, as well as the Australian wood ducks. 

Another popular nature spot is Tidbinbilla Nature Reserve , southwest of the city. Here, blue and red rosellas flit between trees, emus stroll through grasslands, and iconic animals such as kangaroos and even platypus can be spotted as a bonus Australian wildlife encounter .

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Christmas Island & Cocos-keeling Islands

Torres strait – boigu, saibai, dauan and ugar, upcoming pelagic expeditions, local tours, birding tours australia, australia’s local and offshore wildlife and birdwatching specialists.

Australia has about 900 endemic/migratory species and our tour area is home to over 300 of these at different times of the year. Our 1 or 2 day tours are an excellent way of seeing many of Australia’s unique bird species.

Birding Tours Australia operates several specific trips around Newcastle, The Hunter Valley and Sydney. Newcastle sits just north of Sydney and is surrounded by easily accessible and superb birding habitat once you’ve escaped the Sydney city area.  We can also organise custom tours around New South Wales, anywhere in Australia or in fact anywhere in our local part of the world (PNG, Solomons, Lesser Sundas, New Britain & New Ireland).  Our customised tours in recent years have ranged from 1 day to 6 weeks.  No Australian bird is too hard for us to look for.  Whether you need to see specific Australian endemics or families we can organise your logistics and itinerary without fuss.  We can even organise a private Night Parrot search if you’re dedicated enough!

We also specialise in Australia’s offshore territories and conduct tours to Christmas Island, Cocos-keeling Islands, North Keeling, Lord Howe and Norfolk as well as the Torres Strait Islands of Boigu, Dauan and Saibai, as well as several pelagic trips.

Explore our Tours

All our tours can be conducted at a pace to suit your needs from relaxed to extreme, but all will concentrate on locating as many species as possible across various habitats.

Christmas & Cocos Islands

Australia’s remote indian ocean territories.

Torres Strait

Visit australia’s two most northerly inhabited islands.

Pelagic Expeditions

Remote sea birding expeditions.

Incredible birdlife on our doorstep

Meet your guides.

Your tour guides are well known Australian birders Richard Baxter & Phil Hansbro. They are both young (relatively!!!), fit & very knowledgeable about the local birds. They are extremely friendly, helpful & approachable.

Richard Baxter

As well as an avid birder Richard is an exceptional organizer and will make sure that everything goes to plan on what ever trip you participate.

Phil Hansbro

Phil’s high level identification expertise stems from working with these birds in Australia and in over 60 countries spanning every continent.

An Australian wildlife tour will open your eyes to a whole new world of nature. From glowing red cliffs, to sugar sand beaches, the outback, to the coral reefs, Australia has it all. And with wildlife so varied and unique — think kangaroos, potoroos, and cockatoos — it’s no wonder Australia beckons nature enthusiasts from around the world. We are pleased to offer Australian birding tours and Australian nature tours to the heart of wild Australia. If one of our Australia tours or other Australasian nature tours catches your eye, contact one of our travel planners today.

Guided Group Tours

Group travel is rewarding and fun! With more eyes you see more species. Travel Planners of Naturalist Journeys have been creating memorable journeys for 40+ years. We offer you small-group birding and nature tours, limited to just 8-13 persons led by expert guides. Learn and explore with like-minded people, enjoy local food and culture, and immerse yourself in birding and nature.

Conservation Corner

We value conservation – it is at the heart of our work. All Naturalist Journeys’ tours support local conservation projects. Browse the links below to learn more about positive local work to save and conserve the wildlife and landscapes we visit.

Western Australia Forest Alliance Over 70% of Australia’s landscape is privately held, and Karri forest logging poses a threat to local wildlife species. To counter that threat the Western Australia Forest Alliance , a coalition of community organizations, is dedicated to the protection of Western Australia’s forests and woodlands. Birds in Danger Current threats to Australian birds include coastal development, habitat fragmentation, breeding habitat disturbance, fire and burning, inadequate and poorly timed water flow in managed rivers, invasive species, and predicted impacts of climate change. A broad partnership of bird conservation organizations developed an action plan titled Birds in Danger to turn the tide for threatened species. Bush Heritage Australia Bush Heritage Australia is one of the country’s oldest conservation organizations, dedicated to preserving Australia’s unique wildlife and wild lands. Through land purchase and conservation partnerships, they currently protect over 6-million hectares of the most ecologically important, threatened, and biodiverse lands in the country. BirdLife Australia BirdLife Australia are watchdogs for bird conservation across the nation.

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Bird Watching Tours

Private tours with tailor-made itineraries.

Tour suggestions    .

Wild Watch Australia offers a wide range of bird watching tours as well as wildlife, rainforest and photography tours, either scheduled or tailor-made to suit your interests. Tours are usually fully accommodated and all-inclusive but can also be with guiding only, either in vehicles approved for commercial tours or in the clients own vehicle. These can be from one day to several days or even several weeks in duration either in the tropical north Queensland region or inter-state. Other destinations include the Northern Territory, Darwin, Kakadu/Litchfield NPs, Lamington NP, Tasmania, Victoria, the Grampians, Little Desert, Hattah-Kulkyne, Wyperfeld and South Australia etc.

All tours are led by experienced professional naturalist, Jonathan Munro .

The tropical North Queensland/Cape York regions. A wide range of destinations and habitats are offered in this area including Cairns, Daintree, Southern Tablelands; Atherton and Evelyn Tablelands/Cairns Highlands, Ravenshoe and the Misty Mountains, Kuranda, Yungaburra, Ingham, Lucinda, Halifax, Moresby Range/Etty Bay, Cooktown, Cape York/Lakefield/IronRange NPs, Valley of Lagoons, the Gulf Savannah, Georgetown, Normanton/Kurumba and Lawn Hill.

Scheduled Bird Watching and Wildlife Tours….

Queensland wet tropics diversity tour.

10-day/9-nights Fully-accommodated/all-inclusive. Dates: 16th – 25th August, 2020 Includes early morning 2 hour Daintree River cruise and full day trip to Michaelmas Cay and Hastings reef on the Outer Great Barrier Reef.

Price: AUD$4,500.00 per person. Single supplement AUD$630.00. maximum 8 persons

Western Gulf Savannah; Georgetown, Normanton, Karumba and Lawn Hill.

10-days/9-nights. Fully-accommodated/all-inclusive.

Price: AUD$5,500.00 per person. Single supplement AUD$790.00

Iron Range/Lakefield/Musgrave.

Fly/Drive. 8-days/7-nights. Full-accommodated/all-inclusive.

Price: AUD$5,500.00 per person. Single supplement AUD$550.00.

Outback Gulf Savannah and Wetlands Bird Watching and Wildlife tour.

5-days/4-nights. Fully-accommodated/all-inclusive.

Price: AUD$ TBA

Some suggestions, which make the most economical and productive use of time in the tropical North Queensland and Cape York regions include the following:

Bird Watching and/or Bird Photography Tours in the Tropical North Queensland region

Fully accommodated 4-days/3-nights

Regions include:

Cairns, Atherton Tablelands, Warrigal Highland Rainforest Preserve, Misty Mountains and Daintree regions. Includes 2 hour early morning Daintree River Birding cruise. Accommodation at two locations.

Species include:

Golden Bowerbird, Tooth-billed Bowerbird, Victoria’s Riflebird, Chowchilla, Bower’s Shrike-thrush, Pied Monarch, Atherton Scrubwren, Fernwren, Macleay’s and Bridled Honeyeater etc.

Tropical North Queensland Endemics Tour

Fully accommodated 7-days/6-nights. Accommodation in 4 locations.

Areas covered include:

Cairns, Ingham, Atherton Tablelands/Cairns Highlands, Warrigal Highland Rainforest Preserve, Ravenshoe, Misty Mountains, Julatten, Carbine Tablelands and Daintree regions. Includes 2 hour early morning Daintree River Birding cruise. Add a day for Great Barrier Reef trip to Michaelmas Cay, the seabird island refuge and marine park. We would expect 225-240 species in peak season on a 7-day tour

Species include:

Cassowary, Emu, Golden, Satin, Great and Tooth-billed Bowerbirds, Victoria’s Riflebird, Wompoo, Superb and Rose-crowned Fruit-doves, Crimson Finch, White-browed Robin, White-browed Crake, Black-necked Stork, Australian Bustard, Lesser Sooty and Rufous Owl, Brolga and Sarus Cranes, Blue-faced Finch, Noisy Pitta, White-eared Monarch, Red-backed and Lovely (Fairy) Wrens etc.

Cairns and near Atherton Tablelands

Full-day. Lowlands, foothills and uplands.

Habitats include:

mud flats and mangroves along Cairns Esplanade and forshore, freshwater lagoons and swamp, feather palm and paperbark forest, upland rainforest, dry sclerophyll woodland and savannah woodland. Includes lunch at the Mareeba Wetlands

Barred Cuckoo-shrike, Double-eyed Fig-parrot (race Macleayana), Crimson Finch, Chestnut-breasted Mannikin, Little and Forest Kingfishers, Mangrove Robin, White-breasted Wood-swallow, Olive-backed (Yellow-bellied) Sunbird, Rainbow and Scaly-breasted Lorrikeets, Black Butcherbird, Yellow Oriole, Metallic Starling, Rainbow Bee-eater, Magpie-lark, Spangled Drongo, Bar-shouldered Dove, Pied Imperial Pigeon, Brown-backed and Varied Honeyeaters, Green Pygmy-goose, Comb-crested Jacana, Australian Darter, Brush Turkey, Tawny Frogmouth, Osprey, Welcome Swallow, Helmeted Friarbird and Peregrine Falcon.

Daintree and Northern Tablelands

3-days/2-nights. Includes 2 hour Daintree River birding/wildlife cruise.

Riparian/riverine, mangrove, estuarine, lowland and upland rainforest, dry sclerophyll woodland and freshwater wetlands

Great-billed Heron, Striated Heron, Double-eyed Fig-parrot (race Macleayana), Yellow Oriole, Wompoo Fruit-dove, Brown Cuckoo-dove, Little, Azure Forest and Sacred Kingfishers, White-eared Monarch, Lovely Wren, Shinning Flycatcher, Papuan Fromouth, Black-necked Stork, Cattle Egret, White-breasted Sea-eagle, Brahminy Kite, Osprey, Grey-crowned Babbler, Apostlebird, Galah, Blue-faced Honeyeater, Pale-headed Rosella, Red-tailed Black-cockatoo and in season Black Bittern, Pied Imperial Pigeon, Buff-breasted Paradise-kingfisher, Channel-billed Cuckoo, Koel etc.

Ravenshoe and the Misty Mountains

Fully accommodated 3-days/2-nights at ‘The Pond Cottage’.

Highland Rainforest, Wet and Dry Sclerophyll Woodland, Savannah/Savannah Woodland extensive freshwater wetlands, billabongs and riverine. Warrigal Highland Rainforest Preserve and surrounding region.

Victoria’s Riflebird, Golden, Satin, Tooth-billed and Great Bowerbirds, Little Lorrikeet, Chowchilla, Bower’s and Grey Shrike-thrush, White-throated (Little) and Brown (Black-backed) Treecreepers, Grey Goshawk, Pacific Baza (Crested Hawk), Pale-headed and Crimson Rosellas, King Parrot, Red-winged Parrot, Bridled, White-cheeked, Fuscous, Scarlet, and Macleay’s Honeyeaters, Eastern Spinebill, Varied Sitella, Crested Shrike-tit, Red-tailed Black-cockatoo, Owlet Nightjar, Apostlebird, Grey-crowned Babbler, Topknot and White-headed Pigeons, Wompoo Fruit-dove, Eastern Yellow, Pale-yellow and Grey-headed Robins, Fernwren, Atherton Scrubwren, White-browed Scrubwren, Painted Button-quail, Bassian and Russet-tailed Thrushes, Black-faced and Pied Monarhs, Mountain and Buff-rumped Thornbills, Common Bronzewing and Squatter Pigeons, Wedge-tailed Eagle, Brolga and Sarus Cranes, Australian Bustards, Emu, Magpie Geese, Green and Cotton Pygmy-geese, Hardheads and whistling ducks etc

Lakefield National Park and Musgrave

Fully accommodated 5-days/4-nights.

extensive freshwater wetlands (billabongs), floodplain, savannah, savannah woodland, monsoon (gallery) forest, riverine/riparian, mangroves and the inter-tidal zone.

Golden-shouldered Parrots, possible Palm Cockatoo, Black-backed Butcherbird, Red Goshawk, Black-breasted Buzzard, Emu, White-streaked, Banded, Red-headed, Rufous-throated, Rufous-banded and Bar-breasted Honeyeaters, Star, Masked, Black-throated, the white-bellied form of Crimson Finch and occassional Gouldian Finches, Red-browed Pardalote, Comb-crested Jacana (the Lotusbird), Radjah Shelducks, Wandering and Plumed Whistling ducks, Pink-eared Duck, Common Bronze-wing, Black-necked Stork, Black-winged Stilt, Australian Pratincole, Oriental Plover, Southern Boobook, Barking and Grass Owls, Papuan Frogmouth, Owlet, Large-tailed and Spotted Nightjars, White-breasted Sea-eagle, Wedge-tailed Eagle, Brolga and Sarus Cranes and numerous waders

Iron Range and Lakefield National Park

Fly one way, drive the other. Fully accommodated 8 days/7-nights. 4-nights Iron Range, 3-nights Musgrave.

Fly-in/Fly-out. Fully accommodated 5-days/4-nights.

monsoon (gallery) forest, riparian/riverine, estuarine, heathland, dry sclerophyll woodland, mangroves, freshwater lagoons and paperbark swamps.

Palm Cockatoo, Eclectus Parrot, Red-cheeked Parrot, Double-eyed Fig-parrot (race Marshalli) , Magnificent Riflebird, Trumpet Manucode, Yellow-billed and Azure Kingfishers, Fawn-breasted Bowerbird, Marbled Fogmouth, Red-bellied and Noisy Pittas, Frilled and Black-winged Monarchs, Chestnut-breasted Cuckoo, White-faced Robin, Green-backed, Tawny-breasted and White-streaked Honeyeaters, Tropical Scrubwren, Mangrove Robin, Collared Kingfisher and Grey Goshawk.

Lower Cape York Bird Watching Tour

Fully accommodated, 7-days/6-nights. Daintree, Cooktown and Lakefield National Park. Accommodation in three locations. Includes early morning 2 hour Birding Daintree River cruise .

riparian/riverine, mangrove, estuarine, lowland and upland rainforest, dry sclerophyll woodland and freshwater wetlands.

Great-billed Heron, Striated Heron, Double-eyed Fig-parrot, Noist Pitta, Yellow Oriole, Wompoo Fruit-dove, Brown Cuckoo-dove, Little, Azure Forest and Sacred Kingfishers, White-eared Monarch, Lovely wren, Shinning Flycatcher, Papuan Fromouth, Black-necked Stork, Cattle Egret, White-breasted Sea-eagle, Brahminy Kite, Osprey and in season Black Bittern, Pied Imperial Pigeon, Buff-breasted Paradise-kingfisher, Channel-billed Cuckoo, Koel etc. Habitats for Lakefield/Lotusbird Lodge include extensive freshwater wetlands (billabongs), savannah, savannah woodland, monsoon (gallery) forest, riverine/riparian, mangroves and the inter-tidal zone.

Species also include Golden-shouldered Parrots, possible Palm Cockatoo, Black-backed Butcherbird, Red Goshawk, Black-breasted Buzzard, Emu, White-streaked, Red-headed, Bar-breasted and Banded Honeyeaters, Star, Masked, Black-throated, the white-bellied form of Crimson Finch and occassional Gouldian Finches, Red-browed Pardalote, Comb-crested Jacana (the Lotusbird), Radjah Shelducks, Wandering and Plumed Whistling ducks, Pink-eared Duck, Common Bronze-wing, Black-necked Stork, Black-winged Stilt, Australian Pratincole, Oriental Plover, Southern Boobook, Barking and Grass Owls, Papuan Frogmouth, Owlet, Large-tailed and Spotted Nightjars, White-breasted Sea-eagle, Wedge-tailed Eagle, Brolga and Sarus Cranes.

Please Note:

*** Please note that a number our bird species migrate to south-east Asia and beyond. Most do not return to the Tropical North Queensland region until around the end of August/early September and depart again in late February to mid-March depending on weather conditions prevailing at the time. There are exceptions; the Buff-breasted Paradise-kingfisher seldom arrive before the first week in November and most adults have usually departed by late February/early March. The Red-bellied Pitta of the monsoon forests of Iron Range/Cape York frequently arrive very late around early to mid-December. A few individuals appear to over-winter as we have found and photographed them in August and September. We have not however, heard over-wintering birds calling……!

Georgetown and the Gulf Savannah

Fully accommodated 4-days/3-nights. Can be added to 1, 2 or 5.

savannah/savannah woodland, freshwater wetlands etc.

Species possible include:

Masked, Black- throated, Zebra, Double-barred, Plum Headed and occassionally Gouldian Finches, Pictorella Mannikin, Red-backed Kingfisher, Varied Lorrikeet, Cockatiel, Budgerigar, Squatter and Spinifex Pigeons, Ground Cuckoo-shrike.

Lawn Hill, Normanton/Kurumba, Georgetown and the Western Gulf Savannah.

Fully accommodated 10-days/9-nights

 Wetlands and Waterbirds Tour

Valley of Lagoons and Minnamoolka Swamp.

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Specialists in birdwatching & bird photography tours

CREATING YOUR PERSONALISED PRIVATE ITINERARIES & SMALL GROUP TOURING.

Join our award-winning birdwatching & photography tours skilfully guided by Luke Paterson, one of Australia's best bird guides & owner of NT Bird Specialists. Our world-class ecotourism experiences are created with 39 years local expertise from our home base in Darwin, Australia's Northern Territory and are uniquely designed to immerse you in northern Australia's ancient wilderness areas (Northern Territory, Kimberley, outback Queensland) plus the biodiversity hotspots of Borneo & Sri Lanka, while seeking some of the county's most sought after and rare birds and wildlife.

We tailor to all birders, nature/bird photographers, film-makers & naturalists during unique small group tours & private photography and/or birdwatching itineraries.

World birders, listers & non-birders alike highly recommend our professional combination of specialist guiding, 400+ bird species, finding and photographing rare & endemic Australian birds like Gouldian Finch, Grasswrens & Red Goshawk, plus the exquisite cultural landscapes, private photographic cruises, helicopters, bushwalking, rock art & more.

Our Top Tours

Photography Tours

Photographic Workshop: Top End Birds & Wildlife Immersion

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Join our breath-taking bird & wildlife photography workshop with Luke Paterson & Jay Collier in Kakadu’s World Heritage sites. Limited availability. 2 Expert Tour leaders. Special offers available.

Borneo Birding & EcoTours

Borneo Birding & Wildlife Tour: Hornbills, Trogons & Orangutans

Borneo is a naturalist’s dream & a breathtaking destination for NT Bird Specialists’ guests to experience incredible accessible birding & mammal viewing in deluxe style.

Wildlife and Nature Tours

5 Day Top End Birding and Wildlife Tour

Our 5 day ‘Top End Birding & Wildlife Experience’ provides fantastic chances to view many Top End specialty birds and wildlife, including Banded-fruit Dove (endemic), Rainbow Pitta, Hooded Parrot (endemic), Gouldian Finch and many waterbirds.

Bird Watching Tours

9 Day Australian Outback Birdwatching Tour, Darwin (NT) to Mount Isa (QLD)

Wild Kakadu Nature Photography Expedition 2025

Join our exclusive photographic expedition through the heart of Crocodile Dundee country. 12-17 June 2023. Special offers available.

10 Day Ultimate Top End Birding Adventure Tour

NT Bird Specialists’ ‘Ultimate Top End Birding Adventure’ tour discovers some of the most remote and impressive landscapes and targeted bird and wildlife species in one fowl swoop!

Sri Lanka Birding & EcoTours

15 Day Sri Lankan Birdwatching & Wildlife Tour

Join NT Bird Specialists on a 15 day Wildlife Adventure through the biodiverse and culturally rich lands of Sri Lanka in March 2024 and 2025. ‘Immerse yourself in World Heritage wilderness and ancient cultural sites while searching for unique and endemic birds and wildlife off the beaten track. Sri Lanka – the Wonder of Asia, the Pearl of the Indian Ocean.’

7 Day North Australian Finch Frenzy Tour

Join NT Bird Specialists on a Grass ’Finch Frenzy’ of the best birding sites for Gouldian Finch, Star Finch, Pictorella Mannikin and up to 200 bird species spanning the Top End, Northern Territory. Start & finish in Darwin.

8 Day Tropical Outback Bird Photography Tour

Embark on our 8 Day ‘Tropical Outback’ Bird Photography Tour to photograph an incredible range of colourful and unique northern Australian birds and wildlife in beautiful landscapes.

4 Day Kakadu Birdwatching Tour ‘Djakarna Jaunt’

Our 4 day Kakadu Birdwatching tour ‘Djakarna Jaunt’ explores a 1200 kilometre circuit along the Arnhem, Kakadu and Stuart Highways, in the Top End of the Northern Territory.

3 Day Kakadu Wildlife Tour ‘Rakul Run’

For those with a less time to visit the Top End, our 3 Day ‘Rakul Run’ wildlife tour presents a taste of Kakadu in two nights.

4 Day East Kimberley Bird Photography Tour

Join our tantalising bird photography adventure in the East Kimberley. Photograph finches, local speciality birds and reptiles in gorgeous boab-clad landscapes with million star astro views. 

2 Day Pine Creek Birdwatching Tour ‘Parrot and Finch Paradise’

10 species of parrots, including the (locally endemic) Hooded Parrot, Red-winged Parrot, Cockatiel and Northern Rosella, rightfully makes the historic gold mining and railway township of Pine Creek the ‘Top End’s home of parrots’.

1 Day Kakadu Birdwatching Tours

Our 1 day Kakadu bird watching tours start and finish in the heart of the World Heritage Kakadu National Park.

1 Day Darwin Birdwatching Tour ‘Sticky Beak’

Darwin’s urban landscapes retain an array of habitats for birds and wildlife to flourish in.

1 Day Wild Kakadu Wildlife & Rock Art Tour

Only have a day or two to spare? Join our 1 Day Wild Kakadu Wildlife & Rock Art tour for a glimpse of the World Heritage wildlife and rock art at home amongst the mighty South Alligator floodplains and Ubirr rock art sites adjacent to the East Alligator River.

Kakadu Bird Week Tours 2024

Get a fantastic taste of Kakadu’s birding highlights when Luke guides you to the best sites during Kakadu Bird Week 2024. Enquire and book Kakadu Bird Week tours today [email protected]

We have a united passion and experience in working for sustainable tourism businesses and conservation projects in northern Australia and SE Asia.

You can rest assured with our award-winning team, as we combine over 37 years experience in the Northern Territory and Kimberley regions when packaging our genuine small group and custom ecotours, so you have more time to view wildlife and soak in your surroundings in comfort.

Our services in special-interest nature tourism are amongst the best on offer. Come and experience it for yourself.

On our birding trip in the Northern Territory we staked out a waterhole waiting for finches. To our great delight, around 700-800 budgies arrived in a swirling mass, circling again & again until they found the courage to come down & drink. Thanks to our brilliant guide, Luke, for making this possible. I hope you enjoy these most endearing birds.

I went on this tour with my 12 year old son who is a keen birder and I have to say that even as a non-birder it was the best tour I have been on. Luke was amazing in not only spotting birds but taking the time out to be engaging, funny and educational while literally spotting and knowing where all the best birding and nature spots are. My son didn't want the trip to end and wants to book the 10 day tour ASAP. I couldn't recommend Luke more! Will definitely be back.

Thanks again for a wonderful tour. One of the most outstanding experiences of my life. I've also attached a link to a short video I've uploaded to YouTube  https://youtu.be/AvG3BhM4FbM

What can I say about the trip??..  well.. it is an absolute delight to tour with you Luke .. your incredibly acute perception of all that moves or tweets is amazing ..  and your 'nothing is too much trouble' attitude (apart from an unwillingness to piggy back your passengers across the Mitchell river!!) makes the whole experience both informative and a sheer joy 🙂 The beautiful Al fresco meals you managed to conjure up ..  complete with tablecloths .. in brilliantly selected locations were definitely a highlight!

My eyes were opened to this ancient landscape through the lens of watching birds - what a fabulous way to have ones eyes opened. Our guide Luke Paterson provided a superb blend of knowledge, skill and enthusiasm. His people skills and patience were as well developed as his bird knowledge - exceptional at times and breath-taking. this is a holiday to be remembered for the rest of our lives - a stand out!

I have been on many guided tours throughout the world and this one was absolutely stunning an outstanding in comparison. Luke was friendly; endlessly obliging; his ability in bird-spotting was amazing; everything was well organised; attention to detail extraordinary and food excellent and abundant. Luke's kindness and thoughtfulness in making sure everyone was ok and seeing the birds (and we saw way more than expected) was great. Luke was endlessly knowledgeable but modest in sharing his expertise and a great sense of warm humour. I would recommend this tour to anyone!

• Tour Maps Photographic Workshop: Top End Birds & Wildlife Immersion
• Tour Maps Borneo Birding & Wildlife Tour: Hornbills, Trogons & Orangutans
• Tour Maps 5 Day Top End Birding and Wildlife Tour
• Tour Maps 9 Day Australian Outback Birdwatching Tour, Darwin (NT) to Mount Isa (QLD)
• Tour Maps Wild Kakadu Nature Photography Expedition 2025
• Tour Maps 10 Day Ultimate Top End Birding Adventure Tour
• Tour Maps 15 Day Sri Lankan Birdwatching & Wildlife Tour
• Tour Maps 7 Day North Australian Finch Frenzy Tour
• Tour Maps 8 Day Tropical Outback Bird Photography Tour
• Tour Maps 4 Day Kakadu Birdwatching Tour ‘Djakarna Jaunt’
• Tour Maps 3 Day Kakadu Wildlife Tour ‘Rakul Run’
• Tour Maps 4 Day East Kimberley Bird Photography Tour
• Tour Maps 2 Day Pine Creek Birdwatching Tour ‘Parrot and Finch Paradise’
• Tour Maps 1 Day Kakadu Birdwatching Tours
• Tour Maps 1 Day Darwin Birdwatching Tour ‘Sticky Beak’
• Tour Maps 1 Day Wild Kakadu Wildlife & Rock Art Tour
• Tour Maps Kakadu Bird Week Tours 2024
• Unique wildlife & rare birds up close
• Macro & bird in flight techniques
• 3 Private wildlife photography cruises
• Led by award-winning specialist guide Luke Paterson
• Tutorials with professional photographer Jay Collier
• Birds! Birds! Birds! Birds!
• 1 guide per 3-5 guests
• All experience levels welcome
• Birding Sabah for 650+ tropical bird species (64 endemics)
• Pittas, Trogons, Bulbuls, Bristlehead, Broadbills, Kingfishers, Rhinoceros Hornbill
• SE Asia's unique mammals: Orangutan, Proboscis Monkey, Gibbon, Clouded Leopard
• Exploring some of the World’s oldest & biologically richest rainforests
• Gunung Mulu's 3-million bat exodus & world's most extensive cave networks
• Staying in 3 of Asia's best ecolodges with luxury offerings
• Birding Mount Kinablau's foothills for cooler climate endemic bird species
• Sepilok Orangutan Rehabilitation Centre & Rainforest Discovery Centre
• Danum Valley Tree Top Canopy Walk
• Rainbow Pitta
• Banded Fruit-Dove (local endemic)
• Gouldian Finch
• Hooded Parrot (local endemic)
• Red Goshawk
• Wilkin’s Rock Wallaby
• Black Wallaroo
• 2x privately-guided Aboriginal rock art sites
• 1x Boat Cruise
• World Heritage Kakadu National Park
• 3 Grasswrens, Grey Falcon, 10 Grass Finches
• Exceptional local specialist bird guide
• Rare & endemic species
• Fully accommodation, all meals
• Sunrise/Set, Astro & Macro techniques
• Optional helicopter aerials
• 2 Private photographic cruises
• Exclusive access safari camp
• Private Aboriginal rock art sites
• Yellow Chat
• White-quilled Rock Pigeon
• Little Kingfisher
• Spinifex Pigeon
• Great-billed Heron
• Yellow-rumped Mannikin
• Purple-crowned Fairy-wren
• Sunrise boat cruises
• Privately-guided Aboriginal rock art sites
• Lake Argyle
• 34 Endemic birds of Sri Lanka
• Serendib Scops Owl
• Sri Lankan Leopards
• Horton Plains
• Sigiriya Rock
• Pictorella Mannikin
• Crested Shrike-tit
• Partridge Pigeon
• Chestnut Rail
• Chestnut-quilled Rock Pigeon (local endemic)
• Black-breasted Buzzard
• Full day bird watching in Darwin
• 2 x Sunrise boat cruises (Mary River & Yellow Water)
• Kakadu National Park
• Private cruises
• Leliyn/Edith Falls, Nitmiluk National Park
• Azure Kingfisher
• Comb-crested Jacana
• Northern Rosella
• Red-tailed Black Cockatoo
• Plumed Whistling-Duck
• Rainbow Bee-eater
• Red-winged Parrot
• Tawny Frogmouth
• Black Bittern
• White-lined Honeyeater (local endemic)
• 2 x privately-guided Aboriginal rock art sites
• 1 x Sunrise boat cruises (Yellow Water)
• Partridge Pigeon 'Rakul'
• Saltwater Crocodile
• Black & Little Red Flying Fox
• 1 x Yellow Water sunrise boat cruise
• Award-winning specialist guide Luke Paterson
• 11 species of Australian Grassfinch
• 5-hour private bird photography cruise
• All cameras & experience welcome
• Long-tailed Finch
• Historic railway & mining town of Pine Creek
• Black-necked Stork
• Australian Bustard
• Sandstone Shrike-thrush
• Masked Finch
• Mamukala Wetlands
• Private guided rock art tour around Ubirr
• Beach Stone-curlew
• Mangrove Robin
• Migratory Shorebirds
• Howard Springs
• Diverse habitats
• Chestnut-quilled Rock Pigeon (local endemic
• Black-banded Fruit-dove (endemic)
• White-lined Honeyeater (endemic)
• Chestnut-quilled Rock Pigeon (endemic)
• Arafura Shrike-thrush
• Yellow Water birdwatching cruises
• Community walks & presentations
• Bird Watching Tours 2 Day Pine Creek Birdwatching Tour ‘Parrot and Finch Paradise’ Bird Watching Tours 1 Day Kakadu Birdwatching Tours Bird Watching Tours 1 Day Darwin Birdwatching Tour ‘Sticky Beak’ Wildlife and Nature Tours 1 Day Wild Kakadu Wildlife & Rock Art Tour Bird Watching Tours Kakadu Bird Week Tours 2024

Latest News

Birds of a feather flock together

Sri Lankan Birding and Wildlife Tour: Species Highlights & Trip Notes with NT Bird Specialists

Unique Gift Vouchers – Gift Something Wild They’ll Truly Love!

3 Day AIPP Kakadu Photographic Workshop led by Peter Eastway

Effects of Australian bushfires on birdlife & birdwatching tours

Canon Collective’s Northern Territory Regional Festival: Photography Workshops with NT Bird Specialists

Australian Geographic comes to Kakadu Bird Week

Australasian Ornithological Conference Darwin (AOC) 2019

The Urban Birder films Darwin and the Top End

Past Newsletter Highlights and Touring Specials

We’re super pleased to have John Gitsham joining the NT Bird Specialists’ Guiding Team from 2023.

With over 40 years of experience as a dedicated conservationist, naturalist, birder, and bird photographer, John Gitsham brings a wealth of knowledge to our team at NT Bird Specialists.

John is a seasoned professional whose experiences include 25 years in the Conservation Industry (Head Park Ranger for the famous Coorong National Park in South Australia, Wildlife sanctuary roles – Earth Sanctuaries, Australian Wildlife Conservancy, National Parks & Wildlife SA, Nature Guide, Wildlife Manager, Fleurieu Swamps Project Officer & Wetlands Manager for the Murraylands in SA).

John first met Sarah through their University studies in Ecotourism at Flinders University in Adelaide, South Australia & naturally, he hit it off with Luke sharing their birding passions.

John is the past President & Committee Member of Birds SA & has been on BirdLife Australia’s Gluepot Bird Reserve Management Committee (in South Australia’s Riverland) for the past 20 years.

During this time, John has been the Facilitator/Head guide of many birdwatching walks, birdwatching events, lectures & Birdwatching Courses & operated his own Birding/Bird Photography business.

As an accomplished Nature Photographer of Birds & Landscapes, John’s Professional Photography was recently published in two of his black and white landscape photography books.

As we do, John firmly believes in “Conservation through Education” when working with guests & communities, so you can see why we’re excited to welcome John to our team!

Come and meet John on our Darwin and Kakadu tours, or at his presentations at the 12th Australasian Ornithological Conference (AOC) in Brisbane November 2023 and attendance at the Australian Birdlife Photography Conference in Adelaide March 2024.

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🦅 Epic Wildlife Adventures 📸 Renowned Australian Birding/Photo Guide 🚌 Award-Winning Private & Small Group Tours #ntbirdspecialists👇 📍Darwin, NT

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NT Bird Specialists’ Scheduled Departures 2018

• Why Choose Us
• Tours Overview
• Australian Bird Watching Tours
• Nature & Bird Photography Tours
• Wildlife & Nature Tours
• Borneo Birding & EcoTours
• Sri Lanka Birding & EcoTours
• Private / Tailored Itineraries
• Group Tours Calendar
• News & Media

Birdwatch Australia

Birdwatching tours in australia.

Birding Tours South Australia

South Australia has over 450 species of birds which makes it such an amazing place to go birdwatching. We offer a half-day tour, full day tour and overnight birdwatching tour; all in different regions of the state. All the tours are completely private being only the guide and you and your guests, which means we can get really up and close with the birds and wildlife! No tour buses or multiple groups means that you can learn more, see more and customise the birding tour to your liking. Plus, as part of the tours you’ll get all the photos taken on the day completely free!

Deep Creek Birding Tour

Coorong birding tour, gluepot reserve tour, birds in adelaide.

Adelaide and the surrounding regions of South Australia is home to a huge variety of birdlife making it an ideal place for twitchers to explore. Adelaide is home to gorgeous birds like fairy wrens, lorikeets, flycatchers, kookaburras, nightowls, rosellas, eagles and so much more! The further state provides ample opportunities for birding and wildlife spotting and Birdwatching Australia is here to help you with our private guided tours. With tours in Deep Creek National Park, Coorong National Park and Gluepot Reserve; we are aiming to bring as much diverse experiences to the birdwatching community and people looking at trying a birdwatching tour. These places have been chosen for their diverse species lists and exciting landscapes, making for great outtings. 

Bird Photography Tours Australia

Having worked with professional wildlife photography in Australian Tourism industry we have had a blast taking wildlife and birdlife photos over many years. We wanted to bring our passion of bird photography and Australian travel together to create private small-group guided birding tours where guests can be shown the best spots for capturing photos. Whether you want a photo of a White-Bellied Sea Eagle or want to get close to some Royal Spoonbills; there is a tour to suit you.

Birdwatching in South Australia

South Australia’s diversity in landscapes and habitats is what makes it such a great home for the variety of birdlife found here. Whether it’s coastal, woodlands, forests, grasslands or deserts the different areas all come with their own collection of birds, wildlife and landscapes to explore.

Birdwatchers Adelaide

Like any place in the world you’re bound to find a few birders in the area. Luckily, in Adelaide we don’t have to travel far for some good exploration and sightseeing trips. I started Birdwatchers Australia to combine my passion of travel and birdwatching, and hopefully provide more people with the joy of birdwatching through quality private tours. These tours let me meet people who are keen birdwatchers and are looking for some guidance on where to find a particular specie, but also meet people who want to get into this hobby and learn more about birds, wildlife and the regions they’re visiting.

Best birdwatching in South Australia

There are a great spots for birdwatching in SA but I would definetely pick Deep Creek National Park and Coorong National Park as my favourite. I feel these two locations give you so much opportunity to see the widest variety of birds in the most accessible form. Deep Creek and Coorong National Park have such different habitats meaning the list of birds in these areas is very different. Deep Creek’s woodland and dramatic coastline will have you find birds like Honeyeaters, Fairy-Wrens, Thornbills, Wedge Tail Eagles, White Bellied Sea Eagles, Whistlers and Kookaburras.

Whilst Coorong’s shoreline, beaches, sand dunes, lakes and coastal lagoons will have you finding Pelicans, Swans, Egrets, Herons, Spoonbills, Grebes, Terns, Stints, Avocets and even Emus walking the white sand beaches. These two locations make for fantastic outtings and if you’re looking for private guided birdwatching tours then you’re in luck! We chose Deep Creek and the Coorong for our first locations due to the incredible variety that you’ll see and the different sightseeing opportunities these regions offer.

Best birding Spots in South Australia

South Australia is home to plenty of amazing bird watching locations and here are our favourite nine birding spots in the state.

Deep Creek National Park

Coorong National Park

Gluepot Reserve

Private birdwatching tours australia.

Our private birding tours have been created for bird enthuasiasts and amatuers looking to get in the space. Having been on plenty of birding expeditions over the years as my passion grew, I have found my personal favourite locations for seeing certain bird species and best hidden gems for landscape photography. I want to help more twitchers and nature-passionate travelers experience these amazing places and incredible wildlife by creating half-day tours, full-day tours and overnight tours.

Tours in South Australia

Our goal is to provide the best birdwatching tours in South Australia by keeping the groups small (only you and your guests) and prioritising your tour needs. Whether you want to focus on finding a particular specie or you want to learn more about an area, we can accommodate and customise the tour for your group so you have the best possible experience. With a few tours currently running in South Australia, and looking to expand in different regions across the state, we hope to create a tour option for anyone with a birding or wildlife passion who’s looking for an outdoor expedition.

Affiliate disclaimer:

Please note that Birdwatch Australia is an affiliate to Bellbird Tours to provide clients for the birding tour located at Naiko Retreat. We may receive commission, but at no extra cost for you when you submit the form which goes to Bellbird Tours and end up making a purchase.

Sydney, New South Wales, Australia

• Custom Tours

Eastern Yellow Robin

Aussie Bird Tours

For birders of every level. Experts in small, private, customised birding tours. We specialise in local Sydney and beyond birding tours, finding the best locations and birds.

Yellow-tailed Black Cockatoo

Tours run all year. We cater to birders of every level. Whether you are new to birding or are a serious twitcher, we can provide a tour to suit your birding needs.

White-faced Heron

Half day or full day Sydney and beyond birding tour specialists

Spotted Pardalote

Ebird checklists and use of binoculars, bird book and bird apps

Full day or half day birding tours

Your guides

Mike Barrow is a passionate birder. Originally from the UK, Mike has lived in Australia for the past 35 years and is one of the leading birders in Sydney, Capertee Valley, Royal National Park and the Northern Beaches.

Mike's ebird Profile

Martin Allen came to Australia from the UK in 2008, first to Perth and then Sydney. Martin enjoys all wildlife since a young lad but a trip to Costa Rica in 2002 ignited his passion for birds. He particularly enjoys bird photography and works as a casual bird keeper at the zoo

Martin's ebird Profile

Northern Beaches Habitats

Contact Us Today!

We cater to birders of every level. Whether you are new to birding or are a serious twitcher, we can provide a tour to suit your birding needs. Tours run all year as the Sydney and NSW climate is excellent. Alternative locations are catered for on request. BOOK NOW

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Australian Birdwatching

A guide to birding Downunder

Australian Birdwatching Blog

Uncategorized

 by admin · Published 17/08/2020

Australian Field Guides Author Field Guide Edition Publisher Simpson & Day Field Guide to Birds of Australia 8th Edition Viking (Penguin) Pizzey & Knight The Field Guide to Birds of Australia 9th Edition Harper...

Queensland Guides

 by admin · Published 16/08/2020 · Last modified 17/08/2020

Sicklebill Safaris

Sicklebill Safaris has been specialising in small group & individual bird, wildlife & photographic tours around Australia and to a number of overseas destinations for well over 20 years. We offer a range of ready...

Interstate Companies

 by admin · Published 16/08/2020

Bellbird Birding Tours

Expert bird guiding Specialised birding tours Australia wide Flexible tailored options to suit a range of budgets Bellbird Birding Tours specialises in top-quality small-group birding tours throughout Australasia. First started by Peter Waanders in...

Western Australia Information

Christmas Island

Christmas Island is one of the world’s truly spectacular tropical seabird rookeries.  It’s not just the number and variety of seabirds of their magnificent splendour that make the island so remarkable, but also their...

South Australia Accommodation

 by admin · Published 15/08/2020 · Last modified 16/08/2020

Wings Barossa Bird & Bush Retreat

Peace – Nature – Comfort A 2-storey, 3-bedroom country homestead on 170 acres that’s exclusively yours to enjoy. Birdwatching & bushwalking on your doorstep. Extensive marked trails with abundant wildlife. A total experience – not just...

 by admin · Published 14/08/2020 · Last modified 15/08/2020

Banrock Station

On the shore of the Murray River, in South Australia, Banrock Station is home to a vineyard and the Wine and Wetland Centre for the public to enjoy wines and al-fresco dining, while overlooking...

QLD Activities

 by admin · Published 14/08/2020

Birdworld Kuranda

Birdworld Kuranda is a mixed emersion, free flight exhibit conveniently situated in the heart of Kuranda Village.  It houses over 350 Australian Native and Exotic birds ranging from parrots to finches and waterbirds.  It...

 by admin · Published 05/08/2020 · Last modified 16/08/2020

Inala Nature Tours

With 25 years’ experience, Inala Nature Tours specialises in designing and leading small group and personalised nature tours throughout Australia. Our exceptional birding, wildlife and photography tours are designed and led by Dr Tonia...

Tasmania Accommodation

 by admin · Published 05/08/2020

Inala Country Accommodation

All 12 Tasmanian endemic bird species can be seen when you stay with us at Inala on Bruny Island. Owned by a birder and run for birders, this 1,500 acre “Land for Wildlife” sanctuary is home...

 by admin · Published 05/08/2020 · Last modified 17/08/2020

South Australia Guides

 by admin · Published 29/07/2020 · Last modified 16/08/2020

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Departure tour information.

Western Australia: Southwest Australian Endemic Birds

Go to: Australia Birding Tours | Birding Tours in Australasia | All our birding tours

Dates and Costs:

27 September – 05 October 2025

Price: AU$6,640  / $4,674 / £3,610 / €4,288 per person sharing (6-8 participants)

Single Supplement: AU$1,240  / $873 / £674 / €801

* Please note that currency conversion is calculated in real-time, therefore is subject to slight change. Please refer back to the base price when making final payments.

27 September – 05 October 2026

Price: AU$7,305  / $5,142 / £3,971 / €4,718 per person sharing (6-8 participants)

Single Supplement: AU$1,364  / $960 / £741 / €881

Recommended Field Guide

(Please also read our blogs about recommended field   guides for the seven continents here )

Tour Details

Duration : 9 days Group Size : 6 – 8 Tour Start : Perth, Western Australia Tour End : Perth, Western Australia

Price includes:

All accommodation (as described above from Day 1 through Day 8, note accommodation at Amelup might include shared bathrooms, we usually stay in small cottages that have a couple of private bedrooms and a communal dining room and bathroom) Meals (from dinner on Day 1 until breakfast on Day 9) Expert tour leader National park/birdwatching reserve/protected areas entrance fees Private transportation during the tour

Price excludes:

International or domestic flights to get to/from Perth Airport transfers Any pre- or post-tour accommodation, meals, or birding/sightseeing/etc. excursions Visa if required Items of a personal nature, e.g. gifts, laundry, internet access, phone calls, etc. Any pre- or post-tour accommodation, meals, or birding/sightseeing/monument excursions Soft/alcoholic drinks (drinking water is safe from the taps, please bring a refillable water bottle) Personal travel insurance Gratuities (please see our tipping guidelines blog )

Featured Guide:

Western Australia: Southwest Specialties September 2025/2026

Due to geographic isolation and diverse habitats, the southwest of the state of Western Australia boasts several endemic species and subspecies. This nine-day small-group well-paced Australian birding tour will focus on finding as many of these Western Australian endemic birds as possible, while also enjoying a wide range of other interesting flora and fauna along the way.

Local endemic bird species that we will be focusing our attention on during the tour include Carnaby’s (Short-billed) and Baudin’s (Long-billed) Black Cockatoos , Western Corella , Red-capped Parrot , Western Rosella , Noisy Scrubbird , Western Bristlebird , Red-winged Fairywren , Western Fieldwren , Western Thornbill , Western Wattlebird , Western Spinebill , Gilbert’s Honeyeater (formerly known as Western White-naped or Swan River Honeyeater), White-breasted Robin , Red-eared Firetail , Black-throated Whipbird , and Western Shriketit . Other species that are near-endemics to the state (and still Australian endemics) also form targets, as they are unlikely to be found on other eastern tours, these include Western Yellow Robin , Rufous Treecreeper , Blue-breasted Fairywren , and Spotted Scrubwren .

Additional species we will also be looking for include the Australian endemics Malleefowl , Square-tailed Kite , Banded Stilt , Hooded Plover , Rock Parrot , Elegant Parrot , Purple-crowned Lorikeet , Western Whistler , Splendid Fairywren , and the near-endemic Fairy Tern . The isolation of southwestern Australia has led to a high degree of endemism, also at the subspecies level, and we will try to see as many of these as possible in case of potential future splits, such as (Western) Scarlet Robin and others. This tour will prove interesting for those participants who have been birding on the Australian East Coast and/or in Tasmania and are interested in the possibility of some potential future armchair ticks!

For those wishing to explore Australia further, this tour can be combined with our Birding Tour Australia: Northern Territory – Alice Springs and Uluru Birding Tour and our   Birding Tour Australia: Northern Territory – Top End Birding Tour , both of these tours precede this Western Australia birdwatching tour.

Itinerary (9 days/8 nights)

Day 1. arrival in perth.

Morning arrival into Perth, if not arrived ahead of the tour starting. We will meet in the afternoon and spend the late afternoon birding around Perth, including near to our hotel, adjacent to the famous grounds of the Kings Park and Botanical Gardens, within the city. If we have time, we will take a walk into the park, where we will hope to connect with the first of the southwestern endemics, Western Spinebill and Western Wattlebird , as well as more widespread White-cheeked , New Holland , and Singing Honeyeaters and the huge and ever-vocal Red Wattlebird . Carnaby’s Black Cockatoo could be present, feeding in the pine trees, and we will likely find Little Corella , Australian Ringneck , Laughing Dove (introduced from Africa/India), and Rainbow Lorikeet and Laughing Kookaburra (both introduced from eastern Australia). Passerines here may include Australia’s smallest bird, the tiny Weebill , Australian Reed Warbler , and Little Grassbird , while waterbirds may include the beautiful Nankeen Night Heron and the stately Black Swan . We may also visit other sites within the city depending on local flowering conditions and time available.

Overnight: Perth

Day 2.  Perth to Dryandra Woodland

We will likely spend the early morning birding around Perth, seeing some of the above species and others. If tidal conditions allow, we may find Red-necked Stint , Sharp-tailed and Curlew Sandpipers , Great and Red Knots , and Pacific Golden and Grey Plovers , among others. We will also check out some of the lakes in and around the city before we head south. The waterbodies here may harbor a late Freckled Duck if we are very lucky but other species likely include Hardhead , Blue-billed Duck , and Hoary-headed Grebe . Lakeside vegetation may hold Little Grassbird , Australian Reed Warbler , Grey Fantail and Spotless Crake . We will also keep our eyes peeled skywards for any raptors that may be overhead.

After a late breakfast we will leave Perth and head south towards the Dryandra Woodland area, keeping a look out for Baudin’s Black and Red-tailed Black Cockatoos along the way. After lunch we will check in to our accommodation for the next couple of nights and then head out for an afternoon birding in the local vicinity. This is one of the prime birding sites in the region, so we want to do it justice over the next couple of days.

Overnight: Narrogin

Day 3. Full day at Dryandra Woodland

The woodland consists of an interesting mix of Eucalyptus (jarrah, wandoo, and marri), with a good native shrub layer. We will spend the full day in and around the woodland and will look for some of the area’s specialties, such as Western Yellow Robin , Rufous Treecreeper , Western Whistler , Blue-breasted Fairywren , Western Thornbill , Spotted Scrubwren , and Western Shriketit . We will also look for ‘the’ special mammal found at Dryandra – the rare Numbat .

There are plenty of birds to look for around the huge woodland, and we will focus on finding the above birds and other exciting species such as Painted Buttonquail , Wedge-tailed Eagle , Brown Goshawk , Carnaby’s Black Cockatoo , Red-capped Parrot , Western Rosella , Regent Parrot , Elegant Parrot , Brush Bronzewing , Black-faced Cuckooshrike , Western Spinebill , and Tawny-crowned , Yellow-plumed , Brown , Brown-headed , White-cheeked , New Holland , White-eared , and Gilbert’s Honeyeaters , Restless Flycatcher , and Splendid Fairywren .

Day 4. Dryandra Woodland to Stirling Range National Park

We will spend the morning back in Dryandra Woodland or another nearby interesting site, focusing on finding the aforementioned species and others that we may still be looking for, or want to see again after our last couple of days.

As the day progresses, we will continue south to the Stirling Range National Park, an area renowned for its impressive flora and pretty landscape, as well as plenty of avian targets. While here we will search for Black-throated Whipbird , Southern Scrub Robin , Western Spinebill , Gilbert’s and Purple-gaped Honeyeaters , Western Yellow Robin , Blue-breasted Fairywren , and Western Fieldwren .

Overnight: Amelup

Day 5. Stirling Range National Park to Cheynes Beach

We will spend the morning birding at Sterling Range, seeking out those species referred to above but also many others, such as Square-tailed Kite , Spotted Harrier , Little Eagle , Wedge-tailed Eagle , Peregrine Falcon , Elegant Parrot , Regent Parrot , Rufous Treecreeper , Southern Emu-wren , Red-winged Fairywren , White-breasted Robin , (Western) Scarlet Robin , Western Thornbill , Western Shriketit , and Red-eared Firetail .

After our birding session here, we will travel down to the south coast township of Cheynes Beach, along the way looking out for interesting species such as White-necked Heron , Banded Stilt , and other interesting shorebirds/waders. Cheynes Beach is home to some great (and very difficult) birds, and we will start looking for these as soon as possible after our arrival and check in for our two night stay here.

Overnight: Cheynes Beach

Day 6. Full day at Cheynes Beach

A full day birding the Cheynes Beach area for three of Australia’s toughest, most skulking birds: Noisy Scrubbird , Western Bristlebird , and Black-throated Whipbird (a different subspecies from that at Stirling Ranges and a much talked-about potential further future split). These birds are difficult to see, but we will put all of our effort into securing views of them all during the course of the day.

There are also plenty of other species to look for in the area, such as Wedge-tailed Eagle , Black-shouldered Kite , Spotted Harrier , Carnaby’s Black Cockatoo , Purple-crowned Lorikeet , Fan-tailed Cuckoo , Brush Bronzewing , Southern Emu-wren , Red-winged Fairywren , Spotted Scrubwren , Inland Thornbill , White-cheeked Honeyeater , New Holland Honeyeater , White-breasted Robin , Dusky Woodswallow , and Red-eared Firetail .

Weather permitting, at night we will look and listen for Tawny Frogmouth , Australian Boobook , and Spotted Nightjar , as well as the area’s nocturnal creatures such as Quokka , Western Ringtail Possum , the tiny Honey Possum (sometimes possible during the day too – they are tiny!), Western Brush Wallaby , and Southern Brown Bandicoot .

Day 7. Cheynes Beach to Augusta

We will spend the early morning birding around Cheynes Beach again, enjoying views of some of the above species and mopping up any others we may still want to try and see. We will then make our way west along the spectacularly forested coast with giant red tingle and karri trees towards Augusta. With a stop at Lake Muir Nature Reserve along the way we may find a selection of interesting wildfowl and waders (very much depending on water levels), such as Banded Stilt , Eurasian Coot , Yellow-billed Spoonbill , White-faced Heron , Blue-billed Duck , Freckled Duck , and Chestnut Teal . More secretive species around the lake shore include Spotless Crake , Black-backed Bittern , and Australasian Bittern .

Regardless of water levels, the woodland surrounding the lake is home to a population of Western Corella , known as ‘Muir’s Corella’, which is an endemic and isolated subspecies and worth looking for. Other birds possible here include Emu , Carnaby’s , Baudin’s , and Red-tailed Black Cockatoos , Western Rosella , Australian Ringneck , Brown Quail , Square-tailed Kite , Western Spinebill , Gilbert’s Honeyeater , Southern Emu-wren , White-winged Triller , Restless Flycatcher , Western Yellow Robin , (Western) Scarlet Robin , and Spotted Pardalote . We will arrive in Augusta in time to freshen up before dinner.

Overnight: Augusta

Day 8. Augusta to Busselton

The morning will be spent birding around the rugged coastline of the Cape Leeuwin area, pretty much the most southwesterly point of this huge continent-country where the Indian Ocean meets the Southern Ocean. We will look for seabirds here, such as Bridled Tern , Fairy Tern , Flesh-footed , Hutton’s , and Little Shearwaters , Southern Giant and Northern Giant Petrels , and Indian Yellow-nosed , Black-browed , and Shy Albatrosses . Much depends on what the weather is doing as to what is possible here over the water on any given day.

Along the coast we will look for Sooty and Pied Oystercatchers , Hooded Plover , Grey-tailed Tattler , Far Eastern Curlew , Pacific Reef Heron , Rock Parrot , Southern Emu-wren , and Splendid Fairywren .

After birding here, we will slowly wind our way up the coast, checking our areas of Banksia , jarrah, and marri woodland, with the hopes of seeing more black cockatoos, and Western Shriketit . We will stop in the picturesque Margaret River for lunch and will arrive in the Busselton area in the afternoon for the final night of the tour.

Overnight: Busselton

Day 9. Busselton to Perth, departure

Our final morning will be spent checking out some areas around Busselton where we often find interesting shorebirds and waterfowl. We will then commence the return journey back to Perth keeping our eyes peeled for anything interesting we may still want to see.

We will arrive in Perth mid-afternoon where the tour will conclude in time for an evening flight to your next destination.

Overnight: Not included

Please note that the itinerary cannot be guaranteed as it is only a rough guide and can be changed (usually slightly) due to factors such as availability of accommodation, updated information on the state of accommodation, roads, or birding sites, the discretion of the guides and other factors. In addition, we sometimes have to use a different international guide from the one advertised due to tour scheduling.

Black-throated Whipbird

Western Bristlebird

Noisy Scrubbird

Blue-breasted Fairywren

Red-winged Fairywren

Splendid Fairywren

Rufous Treecreeper

Western Shriketit

Red-eared Firetail

Western Rosella

Western Corella

Carnaby's Black Cockatoo

Hooded Plover

Varied Sitella

Western Australia: Southwest Specialties Trip Report, October 2023

12 – 20 october 2023,   by andy walker.

DOWNLOAD TRIP REPORT

All fairywrens are stunning little birds, the  Red-winged Fairywren  is no different and is only found in the extreme southwest of Australia. This makes it a big target on our Western Australia bird tour and is always a popular bird, given how beautiful it is.­

This birding tour of Western Australia started in Perth on the 12 th  of October 2023 and ended back there on the 20 th  of October 2023. The tour focused on the endemic birds of Southwest Australia, as well as a great number of more widespread Australian endemic birds. During this Western Australia bird tour we birded at Lake Monger Reserve, Herdsman Lake, Foxes Lair Nature Reserve, Dryandra Woodland, Stirling Range National Park, Cheynes Beach, Lake Muir, Cape Leeuwin, Margaret River, Busselton, and Nairns.

We recorded 154 bird species on this Western Australia birdwatching tour, (two of these were heard only). Some of the highlights seen included  Noisy Scrubbird ,  Western Bristlebird ,  Black-throated Whipbird ,  Carnaby’s Black Cockatoo ,  Baudin’s Black Cockatoo ,  Western Corella ,  Western Rosella ,  Red-capped Parrot ,  Regent Parrot ,  Rock Parrot ,  Elegant Parrot ,  Purple-crowned Lorikeet ,  Wedge-tailed Eagle ,  Square-tailed Kite ,  Australian Hobby ,  Red-winged Fairywren ,  Blue-breasted Fairywren ,  Splendid Fairywren ,  Southern Emu-wren ,  Spotted Scrubwren ,  Western Thornbill ,  Western Gerygone ,  Western Fieldwren ,  Western Spinebill ,  Gilbert’s Honeyeater ,  Western Shriketit ,  White-breasted Robin ,  Western Yellow Robin ,  Scarlet Robin ,  Rufous Treecreeper ,  Western Whistler ,  Hooded Dotterel , and  Banded Lapwing . In addition to the incredible birds seen, we also found a great selection of other animals, such as  Numbat ,  Short-beaked Echidna ,  Western Grey Kangaroo ,  Southern Right Whale ,  Dugite , (Southwestern)  Carpet Python , and several other reptiles. Bird and animal lists for this Western Australia birding tour follow the report.

During our Western Australia birding tour, we focused on the endemic species and subspecies found in the region, such as the regionally endemic and geographically isolated campbelli subspecies of  Scarlet Robin , a potential future split.

Detailed Report

Day 1, 12 th  october 2023. arrival in perth.

We arrived in Perth in the late afternoon and had a group welcome meal in the evening, discussing the plans for the coming week of birding in the bird-filled southwest of Australia.

Day 2, 13 th  October 2023. Birding Perth and travel to Narrogin

We spent the morning birding at a couple of sites in Perth city. Our first stop, at  Lake Monger Reserve , gave us lots of waterfowl, including  Musk Duck ,  Blue-billed Duck ,  Hardhead ,  Pink-eared Duck ,  Hoary-headed Grebe ,  Eurasian Coot ,  Dusky Moorhen ,  Australian Pelican ,  Black Swan , and  Little Black Cormorant . In the vegetation surrounding the lake we noted  Straw-necked Ibis ,  Australian Raven ,  Willie Wagtail ,  Little Corella ,  Rainbow Lorikeet ,  Red Wattlebird ,  Brown Honeyeater , and  Australian Reed Warbler .

After our birding at Lake Monger Reserve, we moved the short distance to nearby  Herdsman Lake , where we had excellent looks at stunning breeding plumage  Great Crested Grebes  and  Australasian Grebes . Additionally, we had very close looks at  Pink-eared Duck , and good views of  Australian Shoveler ,  Grey Teal ,  Pacific Black Duck ,  Australian Pelican ,  Australasian Swamphen ,  Little Egret ,  Great Egret ,  Australian White Ibis ,  Glossy Ibis ,  Swamp Harrier ,  Whistling Kite , and  Osprey . Meanwhile,  Sacred Kingfisher ,  Australian Reed Warbler ,  Silvereye ,  Singing Honeyeater ,  Australian Magpie , and  Little Grassbird  were all seen fleetingly. One of the highlights of our birding at Herdsman Lake was finding a family group of roosting  Tawny Frogmouths , which showed wonderfully – an early tour highlight, for sure!

Tawny Frogmouth ,showing how well camouflaged they can be, was a great start to the tour!

We left Perth in the late morning and made our way to Narrogin for our two-night stay. Along the way we made a lunch stop at the village of Wandering, where we found Nankeen Kestrel ,  Australian Ringneck , a stunning male  Western Rosella ,  Western Gerygone ,  Grey Fantail , and  Tree Martin .

After a brief break to check in at our B&B we visited  Foxes Lair Nature Reserve , right on the edge of Narrogin, here we found a pair of  Square-tailed Kites  that showed incredibly well in the beautiful late afternoon sunlight. We then also had good looks at the tiny  Weebill ,  Elegant Parrot ,  Australian Ringneck ,  Red-capped Parrot , and  Gilbert’s Honeyeater , as well as a stunning male  Scarlet Robin , which was glowing in the last rays of the sun.

We enjoyed some excellent views of the gorgeous  Square-tailed Kite  in the late afternoon glow.

Day 3, 14 th  October 2023. Birding Dryandra Woodland

We spent our morning birding session exploring  Dryandra Woodland . As soon as we arrived in the woodland we heard the distinctive high-pitched call of  Purple-crowned Lorikeet . We set off to get into a better position to look for them and soon thereafter we were enjoying good views of these attractive small lorikeets. While watching the lorikeets we also got lots of other target species come into our view, such as  Carnaby’s Black Cockatoo ,  Western Yellow Robin ,  Rufous Treecreeper ,  Western Whistler ,  Yellow-plumed Honeyeater ,  Brown-headed Honeyeater ,  Gilbert’s Honeyeater ,  Varied  (Black-capped)  Sittella ,  Striated Pardalote ,  Spotted Scrubwren ,  Inland Thornbill , and  Shining Bronze Cuckoo . Both  Collared Sparrowhawk  and  Peregrine Falcon  were noted overhead, causing a bit of alarm amongst the other birds!

An attractive male  Blue-breasted Fairywren  gave some close views.

We moved deeper into the woodland, finding our first Shingleback Lizard  and  Western Grey Kangaroos  of the tour. Then a few more interesting bird species came our way, including  Bush Stone-curlew  (a pair with a young baby),  Blue-breasted Fairywren ,  Western Thornbill ,  Western Gerygone ,  Tree Martin ,  Grey Shrikethrush ,  Rufous Whistler ,  Jacky-winter ,  Grey Currawong ,  Australian Magpie ,  Australian Raven , and  Rainbow Bee-eater . Here,  Wedge-tailed Eagle  and  Brown Goshawk  were overhead too.

While birding at Dryandra Woodland, we had incredible close looks at several  Carnaby’s Black Cockatoos  as they came to a waterhole to drink.

After lunch and a siesta, we went back into Dryandra Woodland for an afternoon birding session. We saw many of the birds listed above, with the addition of a couple of species and improved looks at others, including Western Spinebill  and  Carnaby’s Black Cockatoo . In addition to the great birds, we also saw the Endangered (IUCN)  Numbat  (for some people in the group),  Short-beaked Echidna , lots of  Western Grey Kangaroos , (Gould’s)  Sand Goanna , and two snakes, a  Dugite  and a (Southwestern)  Carpet Python .

It’s always exciting to see one of Australia’s “strange” animals, and  Short-beaked Echidna  certainly ticked that box!

Day 4, 15 th  October 2023. Birding Dryandra Woodland and travel to Stirling Range National Park

We headed back to Dryandra Woodland in the morning (finding a pair of  Banded Lapwings  along the way), and what a great morning we had. We drove some roads around the woodland and found another  Numbat , this one showed much better than the one we’d briefly seen the previous day, and everyone managed to see this one well. We also enjoyed watching a mother  Western Grey Kangaroo  with a joey in her pouch, and we had further looks at (Gould’s)  Sand Goanna  – a sunbathing individual soaking in the first rays of the day. All very exciting!

After enjoying seeing the  Numbat  and other critters, we focused on the birds of Dryandra Woodland once again, and had a really enjoyable walk through a patch of the woodland that has served us well on past tours. Today was no exception, and we found one of the big trip targets, the recently split  Western Shriketit . We also found  Restless Flycatcher ,  Horsfield’s Bronze Cuckoo ,  Rufous Treecreeper ,  Scarlet Robin ,  Rainbow Bee-eater ,  Red-capped Parrot , and several pairs of nesting  Purple-crowned Lorikeets .

We saw a  Numbat  foraging for termites while in Dryandra Woodland.

After finishing our birding at Dryandra Woodland, we commenced our journey to Stirling Range National Park. Along the way we found several notable birds, and these included Peregrine Falcon  (a perched pair),  Nankeen Kestrel ,  Black-shouldered Kite ,  Wedge-tailed Eagle ,  Chestnut Teal  (a pair with very young ducklings),  Black-fronted Dotterel ,  White-faced Heron ,  White-winged Triller ,  Rufous Songlark ,  Australian Pipit , and  Pallid Cuckoo .

We enjoyed great views of a pair of  Western Shriketits  in Dryandra Woodland.

Once we arrived at our accommodation at Stirling Range National Park, we took a brief late afternoon walk around the grounds. It was quite late, but we had excellent looks at several Regent Parrots  coming into a water bath to drink, along with  Gilbert’s Honeyeater ,  Yellow-plumed Honeyeater ,  New Holland Honeyeater , and a brief  Blue-breasted Fairywren . A fitting end to a great day’s birding in Western Australia.

Day 5, 16 th  October 2023. Birding Stirling Range National Park and travel to Cheynes Beach

We spent the morning birding around  Stirling Range National Park . As we made our way to our first site within the park, we got distracted by several  Emus . The first few were quite nervous, but the others, seen a bit later, showed nicely. We also had a flock of  Regent Parrots ,  Rufous Songlark ,  Brown Falcon , and  Grey Butcherbird . On arrival at our main morning birding site, we got several new birds, including  Tawny-crowned Honeyeater ,  White-cheeked Honeyeater ,  Splendid Fairywren , and  Southern Emu-wren . After enjoying these species, we saw the main target,  Western Fieldwren , and it showed very well for us.  Nankeen Kestrel  and  Wedge-tailed Eagle  were overhead too. As we drove back to get a late breakfast, we found another gorgeous (Southwestern)  Carpet Python  and our first  Western Bluetongue , a lizard full of character!

This  Western Fieldwren  performed brilliantly for us while we birded Stirling Range.

After our late breakfast we visited another section of Stirling Range National Park, where we found Southern Emu-wren ,  Western Spinebill ,  Brown Falcon , and more  Tawny-crowned Honeyeaters . After this short birding session, we made our journey down to Cheynes Beach. Several stops along the way yielded  Red-necked Avocet ,  Pied Stilt ,  Silver Gull ,  Australian Shelduck ,  Grey Teal ,  Hoary-headed Grebe ,  Grey Butcherbird ,  Yellow-throated Miner ,  Grey Fantail , and displaying  Brown Songlarks .

We took a short walk near our accommodation at Cheynes Beach, where we found several new birds, including  White-breasted Robin ,  Red-winged Fairywren ,  Brown Quail ,  Brush Bronzewing ,  Red-eared Firetail , and our best looks so far of  Common Bronzewing  and  Splendid Fairywren . A  King’s Skink  looked rather impressive hiding in the undergrowth, our first of many over the coming days, and we had plenty of  Western Grey Kangaroos  keeping on top of the lawn cutting! Looking out along the beach we found  Silver Gull ,  Greater Crested Tern ,  Australasian Gannet ,  Common Sandpiper , and  Sooty Oystercatcher .

Day 6, 17 th  October 2023. Birding Cheynes Beach

We spent the morning walking around the coastal heathland at Cheynes Beach.  White-cheeked Honeyeaters  were abundant, and many  Carnaby’s Black Cockatoos  were flying around. We tried to concentrate on finding the three tough species of the region.  Noisy Scrubbird  was, unsurprisingly, heard but not seen, with a bird calling from deep within some impenetrable heath.  Western Bristlebird  was the first of the three skulkers to show, a singing bird which then started foraging along a shady section of sand dune. After enjoying the sighting of this one we found  Black-throated Whipbird . This bird moved around us giving fleeting and frustrating glimpses, before it then clambered up to a song perch and belted out a burst of its pretty song for us.

Western Bristlebird  was foraging along a shady section of the sand dunes and showed well.

While birding here, we also noted  Spotted Scrubwren ,  Southern Emu-wren ,  Red-winged Fairywren ,  New Holland Honeyeater ,  Red Wattlebird , and  Silvereye . Several raptors were moving around the local area, including  White-bellied Sea Eagle ,  Black-shouldered Kite ,  Collared Sparrowhawk ,  Brown Falcon ,  Nankeen Kestrel , and  Australian Hobby . The heat started to build considerably and so we took a break during the middle of the day.

Black-throated Whipbird  initially gave us the run-around, but eventually showed nicely as it sang from an exposed perch.

When we met for our afternoon birding session, we were greeted by very strong winds which made birding almost impossible, the sand from the beach and dunes was getting whipped up and blown all around too. It was all rather inhospitable! We took a drive around the village trying to find some shelter from the wind, and some birds to look at, but not a lot was braving the wind. We did however see a rather cute pair of Brown Quails  with a very recent golf-ball-sized hatchling in tow. There were not a lot of options with the wind howling, so we parked the van up and waited near a dirt track to see if we could get lucky. After about 90 minutes of waiting, with a very close  Brush Bronzewing , a duo of  Black-shouldered Kites , several  White-breasted Robins , and a pod of  Indo-Pacific Bottle-nosed Dolphins  doing their best to distract us, we heard a  Noisy Scrubbird  calling not too far away. After about another 30 minutes of waiting and hoping, all of us had seen this super-skulker and major tour target! We enjoyed another fantastic dinner and a celebratory one at that. The tough trio of  Western Bristlebird ,  Black-throated Whipbird , and  Noisy Scrubbird  all seen

Day 7, 18 th  October 2023. Birding Cheynes Beach and travel to Augusta

Today was essentially a travel day interspersed with some birding stops, as we made our way from Cheynes Beach to Augusta, via Albany, Mount Barker, and Lake Muir. A final brief walk near our accommodation at Cheynes Beach gave us a big tour highlight in the form of a mother and calf  Southern Right Whale  – such a huge animal and they were relatively close inshore too. Here we also had nest-building  Red-eared Firetails  and  Ospreys , as well as a hunting  Australian Hobby , and a  Fan-tailed Cuckoo .

Moving on to Albany, we were treated to some simply incredible views of a stunning adult male  Red-winged Fairywren  (see trip report cover image), as well as good views of two  Spotless Crakes ,  Swamp Harrier ,  Musk Duck ,  Blue-billed Duck  (amazing close views), and  Australian Reed Warbler . Here we also saw loads of nesting  Straw-necked Ibis  and  Australian Ibis , as well as our first  Little Pied Cormorants  of the tour.

As we left the coast behind, we cut inland to Lake Muir, where a few strategic stops resulted in sightings of the Critically Endangered ( BirdLife International )  Baudin’s Black Cockatoo ,  Carnaby’s Black Cockatoo , and  Western Correla . Here we also saw  Emu , plenty of  Western Rosellas ,  Splendid Fairywren ,  Red-winged Fairywren ,  Inland Thornbill ,  Western Whistler , and  Spotted Scrubwren . There was water in Lake Muir for a change, and many  Black Swans  and  Australian Shelducks  were present. In the late afternoon we continued our journey to Augusta, our base for the night.

The  Western Corellas  had been feeding along the shore of Lake Muir and so were rather filthy as they flew right by us!

Day 8, 19 th  October 2023. Birding Augusta (including Cape Leeuwin) to Busselton

We had an interesting morning at Cape Leeuwin with several hundred BMX bike riders who were starting their cape-to-cape bike race. However, the distractions didn’t prevent us from finding our main target bird of the morning, the habitat-restricted and range-restricted  Rock Parrot . A pair of birds gave good close views. We then moved up the coast to the Margaret River area, where a walk on a beach resulted in excellent sightings of three  Hooded Dotterels  at close range. Other birds noted during the morning at the coast included  Australian Pied Cormorant ,  White-faced Heron ,  Australasian Gannet ,  Pacific Gull ,  Greater Crested Tern ,  Sooty Oystercatcher , and  Osprey .

Rock Parrot  showed very well at Cape Leeuwin.

After lunch, we continued our journey to Busselton. A short stop in some beautiful Karri and Wandoo woodland near Margaret River gave us a sighting of  Common Water Rat  (Raikai),  Western Whistler ,  Gilbert’s Honeyeater , and several other forest species. Finally, a stop at an ephemeral wetland near Busselton resulted in good looks at  Yellow-billed Spoonbill ,  Pink-eared Duck ,  Australasian Swamphen , and several other waterbirds

Hooded Dotterel  was foraging along a big sandy beach.

Day 9, 20 th  October 2023. Birding Busselton and travel to Perth for the end of the tour

We spent our final day of the tour traveling from Busselton to Perth, where the tour ended. On the way we spent some time birding at a wetland in Busselton, where we had excellent views of a pair of  Musk Ducks  in a courtship display, and we saw plenty of other waterfowl, including  Australasian Shoveler ,  Hardhead ,  Hoary-headed Grebe ,  Nankeen Night Heron ,  Dusky Moorhen ,  Australasian Swamphen , and  Yellow-billed Spoonbill . We also had  Whistling Kite  and a flock of  Little Corellas  going over. A surprise sighting of a  Masked Lapwing  was followed by an excellent look at a couple of juvenile  Banded Lapwings .

Two juvenile  Banded Lapwings  showed well for us in Busselton.

Near Perth, we called into a coastal wetland, where we were greeted by a pair of  Ospreys  at a nest. While scanning the sandflats and estuary we found  Fairy Tern ,  Caspian Tern ,  Greater Crested Tern ,  Australian Pied Cormorant ,  Eastern Cattle Egret ,  Red-capped Plover , and  Pied Oystercatcher . As we checked a pond near the coast, we found plenty of  Common Greenshanks ,  Pied Stilts , and a  Buff-banded Rail . After a final lunch, we continued our journey back to Perth, where the tour ended. Lots of great birds were enjoyed on the tour. “Bird of the Trip” was a tough one to pick, with  Noisy Scrubbird ,  Tawny Frogmouth ,  Red-winged Fairywren ,  Spotless Crake ,  Carnaby’s Black Cockatoo , and  Red-eared Firetail  all being popular.

It is hard to look beyond  Splendid Fairywren  as being one of Australia’s best-looking birds. They are dazzlingly beautiful, and we enjoyed repeated sightings of this popular stunner on our Western Australia birding tour.

Restless Flycatcher  gave us some great views while we were birding at Dryandra Woodland.

Bird List  –  Following IOC (13.2)

Birds ‘heard only’ are marked with (H) after the common name, all other species were seen. The following notation after species names is used to show conservation status following  BirdLife International : CR = Critically Endangered, EN = Endangered, VU = Vulnerable.

Mammal List

Reptile list.

(Southwest)  Carpet Python  is an attractive snake, we saw two individuals out sunning themselves during the tour.

This is a sample trip report. Please email us  ( [email protected] ) for more trip reports from this destination.

Birding Tour Australia:  Western Australia – Southwest Specialties

  tour-specific information.

GENERAL INFORMATION ABOUT AUSTRALIA CAN BE READ HERE

TOUR OUTLINE

This is a comprehensive Western Australia birding tour , yet it is also well-paced, allowing the opportunity to really enjoy the birds of the region. We have a couple of two-night stays along our Western Australian birding route, where we have more time to unpack and focus on the special birds of each area. Western Australia has been cut off from eastern Australia for many years, and as a result, many regionally endemic birds (and rare mammals) exist. Seemingly each year, scientific studies elevate distinct subspecies to full species status – e.g., Western Shriketit is the latest endemic species for the region with the split of the former Crested Shriketit complex into three geographically isolated “new” species. We pay careful attention to all different subspecies on this tour, even if the species may be common on our eastern Australia tour (if you’ve already done that one) because there is a reasonable chance of a future armchair tick!

Our Western Australia bird tour starts and ends in beautiful Perth. We really recommend getting in early for this tour to get used to the time zone and to enjoy what the city has to offer – good food and wine and some excellent parklands for birding. Perth is a long way from anywhere (even other major cities in Australia!) but is serviced by international flights from all around the world, as well as numerous domestic flights from all around Australia.

We will be concentrating on the endemic birds of Western Australia on this Western Australia birdwatching tour; some of these include some excellent parrots, such as Carnaby’s Black Cockatoo , Baudin’s Black Cockatoo , Western Corella , Red-capped Parrot , and Western Rosella . More secretive regionally endemic birds include Noisy Scrubbird , Western Bristlebird , and Black-throated Whipbird . Other top endemic targets on our Western Australia bird tour include Western Spinebill , Gilbert’s Honeyeater , White-breasted Robin , and Red-eared Firetail . Species not likely on many other Australian bird tours (as they mainly occur in a bit of a birdwatcher’s no-mans-land away from Western Australia), include Rufous Treecreeper , Blue-breasted Fairywren , Western Yellow Robin , and Western Whistler – all are stunners too! The tour also offers up chances of some exciting mammals, with one of the main targets being the very rare Numbat . Other interesting mammals can include Western Grey Kangaroo and the tiny Honey Possum . A decent list of reptiles can be expected if spring has sprung and temperatures are increasing. There could also be some interesting flowers on show, particularly orchids, which the Stirling Range is well known for (weather and season depending).

DAILY ACTIVITIES, PHYSICAL REQUIREMENTS, AND TOUR PACE

This Western Australia bird tour goes at a moderate pace, but there are a couple of two-night stays in the itinerary. We will cover quite a bit of ground on our birding circuit of the southwest of Western Australia. This circuit starts and ends in Perth and visits Dryandra Woodland, Stirling Range National Park, Cheynes Beach, Augusta (Cape Leeuwin), and Busselton.

There is quite a bit of driving involved to get between birding areas; these will be broken up by bathroom breaks and lunch/snack stops where possible. Most of the drives are around 2 – 3 hours in duration, but these will become longer with birding/lunch stops added. The longest drive is as we move between Cheynes Beach and Augusta; this is a drive of 4 – 5 hours, depending on traffic and birding stops. We usually buy a picnic lunch and eat this along the way on this day as the route passes through some areas with little provisions but some good birding stops.

The tour is generally considered easy in terms of physical exertion. We tend to make short walks from our vehicle or accommodation in a loop of up to 0.6 – 1.2 miles (1 – 2 kilometers/km), and we may make several of these a day. On a couple of occasions, such as at Cheynes Beach we are likely to make slightly longer walks of 2.5 miles (4 km). Most of the walking we will do will be on mainly flat (sometimes sandy ground), but there are a couple of hills we will walk up/down, particularly while in the Stirling Range area and the Cheynes Beach area. These walks are not considered difficult. We will, of course, take all walks slowly and at birding pace.

We will likely stake out one or two birds, which may require sitting in one place for a few hours (so having some layers will be important in case the temperature is low – see the “Weather” section below). We may look for some nocturnal wildlife at a couple of sites if the weather is suitable.

On some occasions, when we have multiple nights at one location, we will likely take a break for some rest and relaxation during the middle of the day.

TRANSPORTATION

We will use a 12-seater minibus on this Western Australia birdwatching tour. There will be limited baggage space in the vehicle, so please pack as lightly as possible for the tour (including within the seating area).

DOMESTIC FLIGHTS

There are no domestic flights on this Western Australia bird tour.

Please pack as lightly as possible for this Western Australia birding tour. A medium, soft-sided, and robust duffle bag is likely to work best for packing in the tour vehicles. You will be expected to load and unload your own bags into and out of vehicles and to/from your rooms.

We recommend a daypack is used to keep items that you wish to use daily when in the vehicle or when birding in the field (such as binoculars, camera, notebook, field guide, personal supply of water, snacks, umbrella, rain jacket, extra layers of clothing, etc.).

ACCOMMODATION

We stay in a very wide range of accommodation on this Western Australia birding tour, including nice city hotels, quaint countryside/rural bed and breakfasts, static caravans, holiday cottages, basic hotels/motels, and more luxurious lodges. The accommodation we use on this bird tour has been selected due to their good locations in terms of birding sites and places to eat (also important when in rural locations!). Most accommodation has ensuite bathrooms. At Stirling Range, we stay in small cottages; each cottage has two private bedrooms with a communal bathroom, kitchen, and dining/lounge area. We will spend one night here. The exact number of cottages we have depends on the final number of tour participants and rooming arrangements. Wi-Fi is available at most places we stay on this tour. Some of the accommodation provides breakfast/meals, and we will eat those there, where suitable. See the “Meals” section below for more.

Despite Perth being one of the biggest and most cosmopolitan cities in Australia, once you leave the city behind, it becomes rural very quickly. Breakfasts will be taken at our overnight venues in most instances, though at some locations, such as at Stirling Range, Augusta, and Bussleton, we will use local cafés. Most lunches will be sourced from local bakeries or cafés and either eaten onsite or as we drive between different birding locations. Most dinners will be eaten at pubs or restaurants near our accommodation. On one night, when we stay at Stirling Range Retreat, we will have a picnic dinner sourced along the way. Our accommodation at Cheynes Beach will provide breakfast and dinner for us. Please make sure you have notified us of any dietary restrictions for this tour.

This tour will be occurring during the Western Australian spring; therefore, we can expect a range of temperatures and weather. The average daytime temperature is likely to be 61 degrees Fahrenheit ( o F) (16 degrees Centigrade/ o C), with highs of 70  o F (21  o C). At night, the temperatures could be in the region of 52  o F (11  o C). It is likely to be warmer inland and cooler by the sea, where southerly airflows can bring colder conditions. There are no notable elevation gains on this tour to impact the temperature. Rainfall could occur at any time on this tour but is more likely in coastal areas.

WHAT TO BRING: CLOTHING AND OTHER ITEMS

The following is a list of useful items to bring on this Western Australia birding tour and should be read in conjunction with the Australia general information document.

• A field guide to the birds of Western Australia. See the general information for our recommendations for this tour.
• Hiking pole or walking stick to help on the tracks and trails. While probably not necessary for everyone, a walking stick is compulsory for anyone who is unsteady walking , as we feel this is a safety issue; we don’t want anyone slipping on the trails or anywhere else. Please discuss with us if you are unsure whether you will need one or not.
• Torch (flashlight) and/or headlamp (headtorch), and spare batteries.
• High-concentration DEET insect repellant, or similar.
• A small personal first aid kit. See the suggested items from the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), here .
• Lightweight hiking boots are likely the best footwear for this tour. A set of sandals (flip-flops) and/or trainers would be useful for walking around some of the accommodations but are not suitable for birding time (e.g., consider snake bites, mud, slips, trips, and falls, etc.).
• Quick-drying birding clothes (in suitable colors) are the best for this tour, and a good selection of clothing layers (including sweater/jumper/fleece/coat) are also recommended due to the potential for cool or even cold mornings or days, particularly on the south coast.
• Light rain jacket/poncho (and small umbrella) as rain could fall at any time at any location. Spring in Western Australia could see rain showers or prolonged periods of rain if a weather system moves through.
• A dry bag to keep valuable documents in, such as passports, cell phones, wallets, etc., as well as cameras, if it rains.

Download Australia – Southwest Specialties tour Information

DOWNLOAD AUSTRALIA GENERAL INFORMATION

Andy is a superb guide with a wonderful knowledge of birds and where to find them. He is enthusiastic and keen, great company and a real pleasure to bird with. Our Australian trip was very successful in terms of sightings and also really enjoyable. Andy played a big part in that with his superb organisation, excellent birding skills, easy-going nature and positive attitude. I would happily join Andy on a birding trip again and hope to be able to do so later this year!

Andy Walker was absolutely excellent. Knowledgeable, affable, organized, sense of humor, and attentive to everyone. I would go anywhere with Andy.

Particularly enjoyed the south and southwest coastal regions. Andy is an exceptional guide.

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Perth Area Guided Birding

privately guided birding tours on request

Perth Birding Tours

In the far south-west of Australia lies one of the world’s most isolated cities: Perth. To its north are inhospitable outback deserts. To its south is one of Australia’s best birding locations, where a great number of species occur that cannot be found elsewhere in the country, including 15 endemics.

These include Short-billed and Long-billed Black-Cockatoos, Western Corella, Red-capped Parrot, Western Rosella, Western Wattlebird, Western Spinebill, Gilbert’s Honeyeater, Red-winged Fairywren, Red-eared Firetail, Western Thornbill, Western Fieldwren and White-breasted Robin; and the infamous skulking trio: Noisy Scrub-bird, Western Whipbird and Western Bristlebird. Other good species to be found in the wider region include Southern Emuwren, White-cheeked Honeyeater, Western Yellow Robin, Western Whistler, Blue-breasted Fairywren, Rufous Treecreeper and (Western) Crested Shrike-tit, as well as Regent, Elegant & Rock Parrot.

Birdwatching Tour in Western Australia

Let our local guide design your birdwatching day-tour (or longer) around Perth and in the south- west region, taking in a range of habitats in the Perth area, including urban wetlands, jarrah forest and woodlands, the coast and the Swan River. On a day trip, expect to see 80-110 species, including 8-10 endemics, depending on the season and the weather.

A guided birding tour around Perth is the best way to find most, if not all, of the area’s sought-after species. Let us arrange customised private guiding for one or more day, starting from and returning to your accommodation in or near Perth.

Scroll down to contact us for further information, or to check availability and rates for your privately guided Perth birding tour.

Birdlife in Perth

• Western Corella, Red-capped Parrot, Western Rosella, Western Wattlebird
• Western Spinebill, Gilbert’s Honeyeater, Red-winged Fairywren, Red-eared Firetail
• Noisy Scrub-bird, Western Whipbird and Western Bristlebird
• Western Yellow Robin, Western Whistler, Blue-breasted Fairywren, Rufous Treecreeper

Enquire for a Perth birding tour

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• Hyliotidae – Hyliotas
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• Laniidae – Shrikes
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• Maluridae – Australasian Wrens
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• Oreoicidae – Australasian Bellbirds
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• Pityriaseidae – Bristlehead
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• Troglodytidae – Wrens
• Turdidae – Thrushes
• Tyrannidae – Tyrant Flycatchers
• Urocynchramidae – Przevalski’s Finch
• Vangidae – Vangas
• Viduidae – Indigobirds & Whydahs
• Vireonidae – Vireos, Greenlets & Shrike-babblers
• Zosteropidae – White-eyes, Yuhinas & Allies
• Accipitridae – Kites, Hawks & Eagles
• Aegothelidae – Owlet-nightjars
• Alcedinidae – Kingfishers
• Alcidae – Auks
• Anatidae – Swans, Geese & Ducks
• Anhimidae – Screamers
• Anhingidae – Darters
• Anseranatidae – Magpie Goose
• Apodidae – Swifts
• Apterygidae – Kiwis
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• Balaenicipitidae – Shoebill
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• Chionidae – Sheathbill
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• Coraciidae – Rollers
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• Cuculidae – Old World Cuckoos
• Diomedeidae – Albatrosses
• Dromadidae – Crab Plover
• Dromaiidae – Emu
• Eurypygidae – Sunbittern
• Falconidae – Falcons, Kestrels & Caracaras
• Fregatidae – Frigatebirds
• Galbulidae – Jacamars
• Gaviidae – Divers or Loons
• Glareolidae – Coursers & Pratincoles
• Gruidae – Cranes
• Haematopodidae – Oystercatchers
• Heliornithidae – Finfoots & Sungrebe
• Hemiprocnidae – Treeswifts
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Western Australia (WA) is a state occupying the entire western third of Australia. It is bounded by the Indian Ocean to the north and west, the Great Australian Bight and Southern Ocean to the south, the Northern Territory to the northeast and South Australia to the southeast. Western Australia is Australia’s largest state with a total land area of just under a million square miles and is the second-largest country subdivision in the world, surpassed only by Russia’s Sakha Republic – however, a significant part of it is very sparsely populated. The state has about 2.76 million inhabitants, around 10% of the national total. Around 2.2 million of them live in or around Perth in the south-west corner of the state. The central two-thirds of the state is arid and sparsely inhabited. The only significant economic activities are is mining & resources, tourism, agriculture and fisheries.

Most of the state is a low plateau with an average elevation of about 1200 feet and much of the land is covered in soil with low fertility. The southwest coastal area has a Mediterranean climate. It was originally heavily forested. This agricultural region is one of the nine most bio-diverse terrestrial habitats, with a higher proportion of endemic species than most other equivalent regions. Thanks to the offshore Leeuwin Current, the area is one of the top six regions for marine biodiversity and contains the most southerly coral reefs in the world. Average annual rainfall varies from 12 inches at the edge of the Wheatbelt region to 55 inches in the wettest areas near Northcliffe, but from November to March, evaporation exceeds rainfall, and it is generally very dry. Plants are adapted to this as well as the extreme poverty of all soils. Annual rainfall averages less than 10 inches, most of which occurs in sporadic torrential falls related to cyclone events in summer.

An exception to this is the northern tropical regions. The Kimberley has an extremely hot monsoonal climate with average annual rainfall ranging from 20 to 60 inches, but there is a very long almost rainless season from April to November. Eighty-five percent of the state’s runoff occurs in the Kimberley, but because it occurs in violent floods and because of the insurmountable poverty of the generally shallow soils, the only development has taken place along the Ord River. The highest observed maximum temperature in the state was 50.5 °C and the lowest minimum temperature recorded was −7.2 °C, at Eyre Bird Observatory.

The Flora of Western Australia comprises over 11,000 native vascular plant species. They occur within around 1,500 genera from over 200 families; there are also over 1,250 naturalised alien or invasive plant species (weeds). In the southwest region are some of the largest numbers of plant species for its area in the world. Specific ecoregions of Western Australia include: the sandstone gorges of The Kimberley on the northern coast and below that areas of dry grassland (Ord Victoria Plain) or semi-desert (Western Australian Mulga shrublands), with Tanami Desert inland from there. Following the coast south there is the Southwest Australia savanna and the Swan Coastal Plain around Perth, and then farther south the Warren on the southwest corner of the coast around the wine-growing area of Margaret River. Going east along the Southern Ocean coast is the Goldfields-Esperance region, including the Esperance grasslands and the Coolgardie grasslands inland around town of Coolgardie.  

Birding Western Australia

Western Australia covers an area larger than Western Europe. More than 550 bird species have been recorded including 18 endemics and three endemic sub species that may be recognised as full species. There are many other near endemics, migratory species and other highly sought-after species.

Most birders enter Western Australia by flying to Perth. Perth has a surprising number of good birding sites within the metropolitan area or within a two-hour drive. There are a large number of wetlands on the Swan Coastal Plain including Lake Monger, Herdsman Lake, Bayswater (Eric Singleton) Bird Sanctuary, Bibra Lake and Alfred Cove. Most of the southwest endemics can be found at Wungong Gorge and Bungendore State Forest in the Darling Range. Rottnest Island is worth a day trip, and Penguin Island is also worth a visit if you are in the Rockingham area. The best areas for birds are the southwestern corner of the state and the area around Broome and the Kimberley.

Broome is outstanding for the waders, summer migrants and mangrove species and Kununurra is outstanding for the finches, parrots, honeyeaters and water birds. Derby is well worth a day visit from Broome, and Wyndham from Kununurra. The Kimberley coast is spectacular with up to an 11-metre tidal range and some isolated rainforest patches. The Kimberley Coastal Camp is an unforgettable place to visit.

Most of the Western Australian endemics occur in the southwest. A common itinerary is Perth to Dryandra State Forest, to Stirling Range National Park, to Fitzgerald River National Park, to Cheyne Beach and Waychinicup Nature Reserve near Albany, to Cape Leeuwin at Augusta via Mt Barker, Rocky Gully and Manjimup, to Cape Naturaliste and back to Perth. The Stirling Ranges National Park is another excellent area. The Mandurah and Pinjarra areas are very good especially in summer.

Further to the south east there are excellent birding opportunities from Hyden to Norseman, Esperance and the Eyre Bird Observatory. Another common itinerary north of Perth is Perth to Kalbarri National Park, to Monkey Mia at Shark Bay, to Carnarvon, back to Geraldton and across to Cue via Yalgoo and Mt Magnet, and back to Perth via Payne’s Find and Wubin. There are also very good birding areas in the Pilbara such as Port Hedland, Millstream Chichester National Park, Karajini National Park and Cape Range near Exmouth.

Broome Bird Observatory

Cheyne beach / waychinicup, dryandra state forest, kununurra / wyndham, frank o’connor.

(Modified by Fatbirder 2018) | [email protected]

Number of bird species: 646

Number of endemics: 22, avibase - the world bird database, western australian museum.

Birding Sites Around Perth

Birds of western australia: field guide, common birds of the kimberley, handbook to the birds of western australia, volume 1: non-passerines: emu to dollarbird, handbook to the birds of western australia, volume 2: passerines (blue-winged pitta to goldfinch), pocket field guide to birdlife of western australia, western australian bird notes, eyre bird observatory, macquarie university, nature conservation, birdlife western australia, denmark bird group, western australian naturalists’ club.

Abbreviations Key

*Western Aiustralia National Parks

*western australia nature reserves, np dryandra woodland, np fitzgerald river, np kalbarri, np millstream chichester, np stirling range, np waychinicup nature reserve, nr eric singleton bird sanctuary, nr lake mclarty, nr wadjemup / rottnest island, birdline western australia, birding in western australia, ebird australia, australia-naturally travel, australian geographic, bellbird birding tours, birding ecorours, coates wildlife tours, lake argyle cruises, naturalist journeys, perth birds and bush, rockjumper birding, sicklebill safaris, 2015 [11 november] - chris lotz, 2019 [12 december] - andy walker - southwest, 2022 [09 september] - glen valentine - southwest extension, 2023 [09 september] - birding the wild west, 2023 [10 october - andrew walker, red moon sanctuary, beacon birding sites, hamelin a hotspot for birders, movements and genetics of grey falcons, perth's birds and where to find them, urban birdwatching guide to perth, leeuwin current birding, photographer - marcel de jong.

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