By John Rozentals.
Jesus bird
Nature will be at its most spectacular during the annual Kakadu Bird Week, which will be staged between September 26 and October 3. The week-long celebration of nature offers visitors the opportunity to engage in free bird activities, join expert-guided tours and Aboriginal bird experiences, and cruise the wetlands.
With the dry season at its peak and the wetlands receding in advance of the arrival of the monsoon rains, Kakadu’s rich variety of birds, crocodiles and other wildlife are at their most evident.
Kakadu was voted number one in bird-watching destinations in Australia by Australian Geographic and is home to over one third of Australia’s bird species. It is a great opportunity to view graceful sea eagles fishing in the Barramundi-filled waters and watch the remarkable jesus bird seemingly walking on water.
Sea eagle.
Kakadu Bird Week is the perfect time for nature lovers to discover Kakadu National Park in the Northern Territory. The festival will feature a packed itinerary of events designed for both dedicated bird watchers and those who just love seeing nature at its most spectacular.
Yellow Water Cruises and Kakadu Tourism will be offering visitors an exceptional opportunities to get close to Kakadu’s wildlife, with dedicated Bird Week cruises at 4.30pm daily (26-28 September, and 1-3 October) at $109 per person. The cruise will also take in the spectacular sunset over Yellow Water Billabong.
Azure kingfisher.
Guided bird-watching expeditions throughout Kakadu will be held during Bird Week, taking nature lovers on tours of East Alligator River, South Alligator River, Nourlangie and Mary River to showcase the regions’ exotic bird life.
There will be a wide range of free events during the week, and a special program for children has been designed to introduce them to the wonders of birding and the science of discovery. Most family events are free.
Kakadu National Park rangers will provide free daily walks at many of Kakadu’s major tourism sites, including Ubirr and Nourlangie. Details: wwwparksaustralia.gov.au.
Crocodile.
Special accommodation rates during Kakadu Bird Week
Mercure Crocodile Hotel, Jabiru — ‘The Croc’ is offering a room-only rate of $219 (subject to availability). For bookings: [email protected] or call 08 8979 9000.
Cooinda Lodge – next door to Yellow Water Billabong — offers a wide range of accommodation, from quality Lodge rooms through to camping sites. Lodge Rooms are available from $239 per night and powered camping and caravan sites from $35 a night. Bookings; [email protected] or call 08 8979 1500.
For all accommodation options visit www.kakadutourism.com.
NOTE: Potential travellers should check the status of individual events and establishments with regard to the coronavirus outbreak.
