Perth is a city teeming with wildlife, and for birdwatchers, it offers a rare opportunity to spot some truly unique and beautiful species. Whether you’re a seasoned birder or someone just starting out, the variety of birds you can find around the city is nothing short of impressive.
Rare Birds to Spot Around Perth
Birdwatching in Perth is not only a popular hobby but also a rewarding one. Here are some of the rare and fascinating species you may encounter during your birdwatching adventures around the city:
1. Carnaby’s Black Cockatoo (Calyptorhynchus latirostris)
One of the most treasured birds of Western Australia, the Carnaby’s Black Cockatoo is a sight to behold with its large black plumage and distinctive white cheek patches. Sadly, these birds are listed as endangered, making any sighting in the wild a truly special experience.
Where to Spot Them: Kings Park and Bold Park are both hotspots for Carnaby’s Black Cockatoo, particularly in the spring and summer when they are foraging for food.
2. Fairy Tern (Sternula nereis nereis)
A petite and graceful bird, the Fairy Tern can often be seen hovering over shallow waters before diving to catch small fish. These birds are listed as vulnerable, so catching sight of them along Perth’s coastline is a rare and rewarding experience.
Where to Spot Them: You might see them along the beaches of Cottesloe and Leighton, particularly during the warmer months when they come closer to the shore.
3. Red-capped Parrot (Purpureicephalus spurius)
The vibrant Red-capped Parrot is endemic to southwestern Australia, making Perth one of the best places to see these colourful birds. They are easily recognized by their bright red cap and striking green, blue, and yellow feathers.
Where to Spot Them: Look out for Red-capped Parrots in the woodlands and parks around Perth, such as Bold Park and Herdsman Lake.
4. Western Spinebill (Acanthorhynchus superciliosus)
A small but striking honeyeater, the Western Spinebill is known for its long, curved bill and vibrant chestnut colouring. These birds feed on the nectar of native plants and are commonly spotted in gardens and bushland areas around Perth.
Where to Spot Them: Kings Park and Wireless Hill Park are great places to search for the Western Spinebill, particularly when wildflowers are in bloom.
5. Malleefowl (Leipoa ocellata)
The elusive and ground-dwelling Malleefowl is a rare sight but a highly sought-after bird for birdwatchers visiting Perth. Known for their impressive mound-building nests, these birds are a conservation priority due to their declining population.
Where to Spot Them: While more commonly found in the drier inland regions, Malleefowl can occasionally be spotted on the outskirts of Perth in areas like Walyunga National Park.
Birdwatching in Perth’s Swan River
While Perth offers plenty of land-based birdwatching opportunities, the Swan River is a must-visit for birdwatchers looking to experience native birdlife in its natural habitat. Our Swan River Tour is the perfect way to see birds up close while enjoying the serenity of the water. The Swan River is not only iconic for its scenic views but also for the abundance of bird species that call its banks and skies home.
Black Swans (Cygnus atratus)
The Swan River gets its name from the majestic black swans that have long been associated with its waters. These graceful birds can often be seen gliding effortlessly across the river, and their presence is a true highlight for birdwatchers. Native to Australia, black swans are easily recognized by their striking black feathers and bright red beaks.
Spot Them on Our Tour: Black swans are frequently spotted throughout the year, particularly in the early mornings or late afternoons when the river is calm.
Eastern Osprey (Pandion cristatus)
For a more thrilling birdwatching experience, the eastern osprey is one to keep an eye out for. These impressive raptors are known for their skill in catching fish, often diving into the water with remarkable precision. The eastern osprey is commonly found nesting along the banks of the Swan River, where they build large, distinctive nests in trees or on man-made structures.
Spot Them on Our Tour: Ospreys can often be seen soaring above the river in search of fish or perched near their nests along the riverbanks. Our guides will point out their nesting sites and help you spot these incredible birds in action.
Other Bird Species on the Swan River
In addition to black swans and eastern ospreys, the Swan River is home to a variety of other bird species that nest and forage along its banks. Some of the birds you may encounter on our Swan River Tour include:
- Australian Pelicans: These large, graceful birds are often seen skimming across the water’s surface or perching on piers.
- Pied Cormorants: A common sight along the river, these birds can often be seen drying their wings after a successful fishing dive.
- Great Egret: With its striking white plumage and long legs, the Great Egret is frequently spotted wading along the shallow waters of the river.
Why Our Swan River Tour is Perfect for Birdwatchers
Our Swan River Tour offers birdwatchers a unique opportunity to see both rare and common species in their natural environment. Here’s why our tour is the ideal birdwatching experience:
- Expert Guides: Our knowledgeable guides know the river well and will point out the best spots to see birds, including nesting areas and popular foraging grounds.
- Scenic Views: The Swan River is beautiful in its own right, offering stunning views of the city and surrounding nature reserves, making your birdwatching trip even more enjoyable.
- Relaxed Atmosphere: Unlike fast-paced tours, our Swan River Tour allows you to soak in the scenery, observe the birds, and take photos at your own pace.
Final Thoughts
Birdwatching in Perth is a rewarding experience, and for bird lovers, there’s no better way to see the local species than on our Swan River Tour. From the iconic black swans to the spectacular eastern osprey, the variety of birdlife along the river will leave you in awe. So, pack your binoculars, grab your camera, and join us for an unforgettable birdwatching adventure on the Swan River!
