The Northern Territory is home to the highest number of waterbirds in Australia as well as some of the most beautiful and rare bird species.
The aptly-named Bird Billabong is located in the Mary River National Park between the Mount Bundey Hills and the Mary River channel, and is teeming with many of them.
Take the pleasant 2 kilometre stroll to the billabong through scenic surrounds. Stand on the viewing platform at the waters edge, taking in panoramic views over the billabong - a permanent fresh water swamp surrounded by paperbark forests. The full loop walk of the billabong is an easy 4.5km, which should take around 2 hours.
Bring your binoculars and camera - there's so much to see - Magpie geese, ducks, Jabiru, herons, ibis and other waterbirds are known to frequent the landlocked billabong. Many species such as Radjah Shelduck breed in the billabong as waters recede on the wetlands. The billabong changes vastly across seasons, from fully flooded (February/March) to parched dry (usually by October).
The Mary River is one of eight rivers in the Top End that have large floodplains in their catchments. The Arnhem Highway crosses five of these eight rivers as you travel between Darwin and Jabiru.
Pass information
If you're a visitor to the NT, you need an NT Parks Visitor Pass to visit most national parks and reserves. The pass allows you to visit all parks and reserves managed by the NT Government within your valid dates.
|
Price per:
|
1-day pass | 3-day pass | 2-week pass | 1-month pass | Annual pass |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Adult 18 years and over | $10 | $20 | $30 | $45 | $60 |
| Child 5 to 17 years | $5 | $10 | $15 | $22 | $30 |
| Family 2 adults and 4 children | $25 | $50 | $75 | $110 | $150 |
| Concession Holders of Australian Government issued Seniors Card, Pensioner Concession Card or DVA Card. | $8 | $16 | $24 | $36 | $48 |
NT residents don't need a visitor pass but may be asked to show proof of residency, such as a valid NT driver licence.
Buy your pass online or find out more about passes & permits in the NT.
Entry cost
- Indicative Prices tickets from $10.00 to $60.00
Park entry fees - NT Parks Visitor Pass applies (NT residents exempt). Camping fees apply to all visitors. - Child tickets from $5.00 to $30.00
Park entry fees - NT Parks Visitor Pass applies (NT residents exempt). Camping fees apply to all visitors.
Facilities
- Barbeque
- Carpark
- Family-friendly
- Lookouts
- Picnic area
Activities
- Birdwatching
- Walks
/f/286255898790625/eb73ce1477/keep-in-touch.jpg)