Finches and crocs, wallabies and whales; the Kimberley is a wildlife watching hotspot
By Australia’s North West
The Kimberley in Western Australia is a treasure trove for wildlife watching. This vast and remote region is home to diverse ecosystems teeming with unique birds and animals.
From wetlands brimming with life, to rugged landscapes where rare species roam, the Kimberley offers an unmatched adventure for those who love observing nature in its purest form.
Whether you’re just someone seeking a connection to the wild, a keen birder or an animal enthusiast, the Kimberley provides you with an extraordinary David Attenborough-esque experience.
Create your own adventure in a wildlife paradise
The Kimberley’s varied landscapes—spanning savannahs, rainforests, wetlands, and coastal environments—create habitats for an incredible range of species.
With over 300 bird species, native mammals, and unique reptiles, the region is a biodiversity hotspot. Many animal species here are endemic, meaning they can’t be found anywhere else in the world – yes it’s true!
The remoteness of the Kimberley ensures that much of its natural beauty remains untouched, providing holidayers with the chance to see wildlife in their natural habitats. And that surely beats a zoo any day of the week.
Our Must-Do bird and animal watching experiences
1. Birdwatching at Broome’s Roebuck Bay
Roebuck Bay is one of Australia’s most significant birdwatching sites, particularly during the migratory season. The mudflats are a haven for thousands of shorebirds, including species like the great knot and red-necked stint. Visit the Broome Bird Observatory to join guided tours or learn from expert birdwatchers about the bay’s avian wonders.
2. Lake Argyle wildlife cruises
Lake Argyle, one of the largest man-made lakes in the southern hemisphere, is a hotspot for wildlife. On a cruise, you can see freshwater crocodiles, wallabies, and an array of birdlife, such as whistling ducks and Australian pelicans. The lake is also home to unique fish species like the sooty grunter.
3. Mornington Wildlife Sanctuary
Managed by the Australian Wildlife Conservancy, this sanctuary on the Gibb River Road is a prime spot for wildlife watching. Here, you can see rare species like the Gouldian finch, northern quolls, and wallaroos. Guided birdwatching and animal spotting tours provide an immersive experience in this ecological ark haven.
4. Mitchell Plateau and Kalumburu
The dense rainforests and savannah woodlands of the Mitchell Plateau are a refuge for endemic birds and animals. Keep an eye out for the black grass wren, Kimberley honeyeater and the iconic ballet-dancing brolgas. This remote area also offers chances to spot short-eared rock-wallabies and various reptiles.
5. Crocodile spotting along the Ord River
The Ord River is teeming with wildlife, including the iconic saltwater and freshwater crocodiles. Tours along the river provide thrilling encounters with these ancient reptiles while also showcasing a variety of bird species, such as jabirus and sea eagles.
6. Horizontal Falls marine life encounters
A visit to the Horizontal Falls offers a unique opportunity to witness marine life, including sharks, turtles, and rays. The surrounding coastal ecosystems are also home to dugongs dolphins and migratory whales. Combine your adventure with a scenic seaplane ride or boat tour for an unforgettable experience.
7. Montgomery Reef Marine Park
Situated between Camden Sound and Collier Bay, the reef is remarkable for its diversity of marine life, as well as the tidal changes – often over eight metres – that create this spellbinding spectacle. The marine park is home to six species of threatened marine turtles, humpback dolphins, dugongs, saltwater crocodiles, several sawfish species, and is the Southern Hemisphere’s most important humpback whale nursery.
Our tips for a wildlife watching adventure
Time Your Visit: The dry season (May to October) is ideal for wildlife watching, as animals congregate around water sources.
Bring Binoculars: A good pair of binoculars is essential for spotting birds and animals at a distance.
Join Guided Tours: Local guides have expert knowledge and can help you find elusive species while sharing fascinating insights.
Stay Quiet and be Patient: Wildlife encounters often require patience and minimal noise to avoid scaring animals away. Often it’s the quiet moments, that our little (and big) friends pop-out and say hello.
Where to Stay
El Questro Wilderness Park: This iconic Kimberley destination offers accommodations ranging from campsites to luxury lodges. It’s an excellent base for exploring nearby trails and rivers rich in wildlife.
Broome: A gateway to the Kimberley, Broome offers access to Roebuck Bay and Cable Beach, both teeming with birdlife. It’s also the departure point for tours to Montgomery Reef Marine Park.
Mornington Wilderness Camp: Located within the Mornington Wildlife Sanctuary, this eco-camp provides direct access to premier bird and animal watching spots.
Lake Argyle Resort: Perfect for those planning to explore Lake Argyle’s wildlife by day and relax in comfort by night.
Give wildlife watching a crack on your Kimberley holiday
Adding wildlife-watching to your Kimberley holiday isn’t just about spotting rare species—it’s about connecting with the rhythm of nature.
Whether you’re marvelling at a flock of vibrant colourful Gouldian finches, observing crocodiles glide silently through the water, or witnessing a classic sunset or orange-to-purple hues filled with the calls of native birds signalling the end of the day, the Kimberley offers nature’s best theatre performances and a truly unforgettable experience.
To start planning your adventure holiday and explore more about the Kimberley’s wildlife hotspots, visit https://www.australiasnorthwest.com
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We’re a super friendly bunch in the Kimberley and always happy to help with sharing a local insight of where to go and what to see. Please get in touch if you have questions we can help answer.
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