“Why are we whispering?” I hear someone ask. Right here at the Bird hide, silence is more than golden. It’s the key to unlocking a world of avian wonders.
Welcome to a unique experience near Melbourne. This isn’t just any viewpoint. It’s a carefully designed sanctuary for both birds and birdwatchers. The Bird hide offers a chance to observe these creatures in their natural habitat.
Coolart Wetlands is located 80 km south-east of Melbourne on the Mornington Peninsula. It is an 87.5 ha estate featuring a late 19th-century mansion-like homestead. The adjacent wetlands and coastal woodlands are great for birdwatching. The 5 km loop itself features lots of shade and is relatively flat. Several bird hides are situated along the way.
Over 125 species of birds visit Coolart. You might spot an Australasian Swamphen or an Australian White Ibis. Perhaps a Hoary-headed Grebe or various cormorants will grace us with their presence. Many species of ducks call this place home including the Chestnut Teal, Australian Shoveler and Blue-billed Duck. Keep an eye out for the Red-capped Plover or the majestic Wedge-tailed Eagle. The Striated Pardalote, Black Swan and Great Egret are also frequent visitors. If you’re lucky, you might even catch a glimpse of Horsfield’s Bronze-Cuckoo, Swamp Harrier, Australian White Ibis and Straw-necked Ibis.
Imagine the thrill of witnessing a Red-necked Stint darting across the mudflats. Envision the elegance of a Black Swan gliding across the water. Feel the anticipation as you wait for a glimpse of the elusive Blue-billed Duck.
The Western Treatment Plant near Werribee is considered the prime birdwatching site in Victoria. It is managed by Melbourne Water and accessible by permit only. Two bird hides are located at the mouth of Little River and at Austin Road. Toilets and parking are available at the Paradise Road entry. The habitat includes sewage ponds, constructed and natural wetlands.
Late Spring to early Autumn is the best time for waders. Many waders overwinter here. Late Autumn to early Spring is the best time for Orange-bellied Parrots. Typical common birds include the Musk Duck, Cape Barren Goose and Black Swan. The Australian Shelduck, Pink-eared Duck and Australasian Shoveler are also often seen.
Remember to respect the environment. Keep noise to a minimum. Leave no trace of your visit. The more we protect this space, the more rewarding our experience at the Bird hide will be.
Take a moment to breathe in the fresh air. Listen to the calls of the birds. Observe their behaviors. Let the tranquility of this Bird hide wash over you. It’s a memory you’ll treasure long after you leave.