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Cairns is fast becoming world famous as a major bird watching destination.
The sheer numbers of birds are only matched by their diversity.
Bird watching opportunities are abundant and very accessible. A
walk along the Esplanade, the Botanical
Gardens or the City heart itself will result in hundreds of
species of birds being seen. Councils generally have bird identification
charts in areas where bird watchers congregate and special walks
have been developed and sign posted to encourage visitors to enjoy
this pastime.
The
Cassowary is the second largest bird in Australia (after the Emu).
Cassowaries are only found in North Queensland,
normally in rainforest areas. These timid birds can be seen in the
wild in some rainforest areas adjacent to Cairns. In certain areas
there are warnings on the roads advising motorists to be careful
of Cassowaries crossing. Please take these signs seriously as Cassowaries
numbers have been seriously affected in recent years.
The
Great Barrier Reef Islands also have large
numbers of migrating and nesting sea birds. At certain times of
the year some sandy cays are so heavily populated with seabirds
that there is literally no sand to be seen.
When
in Cairns the Department of Environment
and Heritage also have very knowledgeable people on staff who are
happy to help with bird identification and recommendations for places
to visit to see particular species. For more information please
call (07) 4052 3095 when in Cairns.
There are also many tour operators who specialise in conducting
bird watching tours. They can cater for all levels of interest from
interested amateurs to visiting university groups.
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