There are around 600-800 species of birds in Australia, nearly half of which are endemic. If birdwatching is something you genuinely enjoy, you should definitely consider spending a lot of time down under. You can also join birdwatching groups and safaris for an amazing experience with like-minded people. You can book your next birdwatching adventure here.
Whether you are an expert or beginner birdwatcher, or just simply love being outdoors, then Callum Brae Nature Reserve should definitely be on your list of places to visit. This nature reserve is located in the Australian Capital Territory and is a part of the Canberra Nature Park, which is a network of parks across Canberra that link together several wetland and woodland sites. Callum Brae is a small patch of forest adjacent to the Red Hill Nature Reserve, covers about 140 hectares of land, and is home to migratory and rare bird species. In this blog post, we will share some tips and information about birdwatching in Callum Brae Nature Reserve.
Birdwatching Tips for Callum Brae Nature Reserve
Callum Brae Nature Reserve is an excellent place to go birdwatching, and there are several things you can do to make the most of your experience.
Wear comfortable clothing and shoes
When birdwatching at Callum Brae Nature Reserve, it is essential to wear comfortable clothing and shoes. Lightweight, breathable materials are recommended so that you can stay cool and dry during your excursions. Long sleeves and pants are also advised, as they will protect your skin from the sun and help keep mosquitoes at bay.
Bring a pair of binoculars and a bird identification book or app
Although it isn’t required, it would be helpful to bring a pair of binoculars and a bird identification book or app when birdwatching at Callum Brae nature reserve. Binoculars will help you get close-up views of the birds you are observing, while an identification book or app will help you identify and differentiate different bird species.
Try to visit in the morning or late afternoon
If you’re looking for the best birdwatching experience in the Callum Brae Nature Reserve, then the best time to visit is during the morning or late afternoon. During these times, there tends to be more activity from birds. Not only will this make it easier to spot birds, but it when birds are most active.
Stay quiet and minimize movement
If you’ve been birdwatching for a while, this tip is quite self-explanatory. For curious beginners, staying quiet and making only subtle movements will better your chances of seeing more bird species during your trip.
Which bird species can be spotted in Callum Brae Nature Reserve?
There are over 169 species of birds to see in this nature reserve alone, including plenty of migratory birds.
Top 10 most spotted birds in the area
- European Starling
- Yellow-faced Honeyeater
- Sulphur-crested Cockatoo
- Little Corella
- Galah
- Australian Ibis
- Little Raven
- Silver Gull
- Crested Pigeon
- Pied Currawong
Migratory Species
- White-winged Triller
- Dusky Woodswallow
Hybrid birds spotted in the area
- Little Corella x Sulphur-crested Cockatoo
- Lorikeet sp. (Musk/Rainbow/Scaly-breasted Lorikeet hybrid)
- Crimson x Eastern Rosella
Sights and activities at Callum Brae Nature Reserve
At Callum Brae Nature Reserve, there are a variety of activities to enjoy. You can explore the 140-hectare reserve on a walking trail and admire the diverse flora and fauna that call it home. There are many species of plants here, including eucalyptus trees and wattles, and
In addition to birdwatching, Callum Brae Nature Reserve is a great place for outdoor activities such as photography, walking, cycling, and running. It offers over 6 km of trails in the park, with many of them leading to scenic views of the diverse flora and fauna of the area. You can also visit different birdwatching spots nearby like the Red Hill Nature Reserve.
Don’t have a lot of time? Bookmark this article for later and check out this short YouTube video of Neil to experience a preview of Callum Brae and the adventure that awaits avid birdwatchers and curious first timers alike.
Australia is indeed a bird paradise. Visit neilhermes.com.au to book birdwatching walks and safaris around Canberra to different parts of Australia, as well as other stunning locations off the beaten path.
The Best Birdwatching Tours and Safaris in Australia | Neil Hermes: Author, Ornithologist, and Tour Guide
A scientist by background, and a keen author, researcher, tour guide, and ornithologist, Neil travelled around Australia and other parts of the world for decades. His expeditions are fuelled by his unwavering passion for birds, publishing his findings, planning birdwatching safaris, and participating in bird conservation efforts along the way. His passion for both birds and tourism gave him the much needed push to start Neil Hermes Safaris, touring aspiring birdwatchers and enthusiasts around Canberra, and all over Australia.
