Shorebirds and other waterbirds

Recreational bird-watching

Community-based bird watching organisations such as BirdLife Australia, Birds Queensland and the Queensland Wader Study Group, exist in many areas. They provide opportunities for beginners to develop their observational skills and learn about bird ecology, research and management through attending regular meetings, excursions and/or camping trips. Volunteer participation in competently supervised survey, assessment and conservation projects has already contributed large amounts of data that is being used for research and conservation. Individuals also can contribute to such projects, thus participants need not be located in an urban area; isolated observers have contributed enormously to our knowledge of waterbirds and other birds in remote regions.

Waterbirds are great for newcomers to bird watching as many waterbirds are easy to see and often provide a more rewarding day out than in a dense forest where knowledge of calls is important and sightings of birds may be brief. Spectacular flocks of waterbirds can be inspirational and encourage an appreciation for nature. Large birds like storks, swans and swamphens can enable observers to easily learn the bird’s daily routine, feeding and nesting habits, as well as diet. From these foundations, deeper interest can develop.

Shorebirds are a notable feature of much of Queensland's coastline, particularly during the warmer months. These birds are vulnerable to disturbance so they are best observed by sitting quietly at a distance, preferably in a bird hide, and using a spotting scope. More information on watching shorebirds can be found on the Queensland Waders Study Group web site.

Additional information

• Shorebirds 2020 has a whole suite of education materials for kids and grown-ups to promote shorebird conservation in Australia
• The Queensland Wader Study Group provides guidance on the identification of shorebirds and conducts regular surveys
• The US Shorebird Conservation Plan—Education and Outreach
• The Birds in Backyards program provides a range of information and resources on birds, including identification and education
• Queensland Parks and Wildlife Service, Department of Environment, Science and Innovation, Living with Wildlife-Shorebirds
• Shorebirds in Moreton Bay Brochure
• Waterbird colouring templates

Last updated: 25 January 2021