Bird Watching on the Fraser Coast
An exceptional bird watching habitat
The diverse habitats of the Fraser Coast provide exceptional birdwatching, from the low tide mud flats of Hervey Bay to areas on K’gari-Fraser Island, the Great Sandy Strait, Howard and Maryborough. The area is recognised as among the most important roosting sites for migratory shorebirds visiting Australia and at least 40,000 come from as far away as Japan, Alaska and Siberia.
The region is recognised as a wetland of international importance under the Ramsar Convention. More than 250 species of bird life have been identified and the region is also home to several threatened and endangered species including the little tern.
Dolphin Waters, Burrum Heads
From Burru Heads Road turn into Ivor Drive, then right into Traviston Way. Migratory waders and beach birds can be seen at lower tides. More than 100 species have been identified in this area.
Arkarra Lagoons, Dundowran
Located on Panorama Drive, these diverse habitats suit a wide range of bird species. Waterbirds, mistletoe birds, reed warblers and fairy wrens are safe from cats and foxes in tangled undergrowth.
Kingfisher Bay
From Burru Heads Road turn into Ivor Drive, then right into Traviston Way. Migratory waders and beach birds can be seen at lower tides. More than 100 species have been identified in this area.
Hervey Bay Botanic Gardens, Urangan
Located on Elizabeth Street, the gardens feature easy walking tracks with picnic facilities, toilets and carpark available. 100 bird species have been identified.
Teddington Weir
Drive 11km south of Maryborough to the Teddington Weir picnic area. Black-breasted button quails are occasionally seen. As a bonus, koalas are also often spotted in this area.
Fay Smith Wetlands
Between Neptune and Victory streets, a 4ha paperbark swamp with some dry clay pans, once a traditional Butchulla area valued as a source of fresh water. There are a series of walking bridges and trails which allow visitors to enjoy the abundant bird life.
