Department of Tourism, Sport and Culture
The Northern Territory is home to some ofAustralias if not the worlds – most incredible birdlife, and the Red Centrewill be at the heart of the action in September during the Red Centre BirdFestival at Alice Springs Desert Park.
The Red Centre Bird Festival, which runs from 4-8September 2019, celebrates the diversity of our birdlife and is the idealopportunity for experienced birders to tick a few species off their list, orfor beginners to get a taste of the fantastic variety of birdlife that callsthe Territory home.
Theregion is home to 180 bird species, which are found in a range of stunning,diverse habitats. Although the area has experienced dry spells, sedentaryspecies such as the DuskyGrasswren continue to be sighted close to Alice Springs, and species that are ararity elsewhere are regularly encountered in the Red Centre.
AliceSprings Desert Park is at the top of the pecking order when it comes to birding,with the reticulated botanic garden providing a haven for species such as Honeyeatersand Fairy-wrens. ThePark is becoming internationally famous as the most reliable place in Australiato see the enigmatic Grey Honeyeater, one of the most sought-after but elusiveHoneyeaters in the world.
TheRed Centre Bird Festival is brought to you by Tourism NT, Alice Springs DesertPark, Birdlife Central Australia and Friends of the Desert Park.
Forthe full festival program visit https://alicespringsdesertpark.com.au/whats-on/red-centre-bird-festival and follow the RedCentre Bird Festival on Facebook at www.facebook.com/redcentrebirdfestival.
As stated by AliceSprings Desert Park Zoology Operations Manager, Bruce Pascoe:
Birdingin the Northern Territory is phenomenal both for the variety of birds foundhere and the incredible landscapes they inhabit.
Weencourage locals and visitors to get out and about and enjoy the plannedactivities. There is something for everyone, from beginner birders toexperienced birdwatchers, nature lovers and those just eager to enjoy our greatoutdoors.
Highlightsof this years event include Birds for Beginners, where you can learn from alocal bird expert; the Language of Birds, where you will learn what basic birdcalls mean and why its helpful to know; a Bird Photography Workshop thatcovers all aspects of capturing our feathered friends on camera; and Birds atSunset, where we will spot waterbirds and migratory waders.
