A secret hideaway has been revealed at Kyabram Fauna Park, and it’s perfect for watching an array of migratory birdlife.
Visitors can settle in to a newly refurbished bird hide built among the trees and see the unique bird species that visit the surrounding wetlands.
Thousands of migrating and native bird species are visible from the hide, which offers 360-degree views of the thriving wetlands ecosystem.
Kyabram Fauna Park acting director Paul Lavars said the bird hide offered visitors the chance to observe the birds without disturbing them.
“The newly refurbished bird hide offers a peaceful, comfortable and camouflaged spot to sit in the middle of the wetlands and enjoy the vibrant array of birds that live there,” Mr Lavars said.
“You can see Pacific black ducks swimming with their chicks, colourful red-rumped parrots in tree hollows, and even endangered freckle ducks, blue-billed ducks and musk ducks.
“It’s a fantastic spot for bird watchers, photographers and those just looking to be immersed in nature.”
At least 36 species of migratory birds visit Australian wetlands each year, with many travelling more than 20,000km to the northern hemisphere and back.
Among them are great egrets, nankeen night herons, brolgas and royal spoonbills, and some stay at Kyabram Fauna Park for long periods.
“The wetlands are where many birds come to rest or feed before completing their long journey to the coast,” Mr Lavars said.
“Depending on the time of year, visitors to the park will be able to see species of birds that they’ve never seen before.”
The newly refurbished hide complements the existing two-storey bird hide, which offers a spectacular vantage point to view the entire wetlands.
Kyabram Fauna Park is open 10am to 5pm every day.
Kids visit free during Victorian school holidays, public holidays and weekends.
For more information, visit https://www.zoo.org.au/kyabram/