Waterbirds

First Narran Lakes waterbird survey for the 2025-2026 water year

First Macquarie Marshes waterbird survey for the 2025-2026 water year

Is the Australasian bittern returning to the Gwydir Wetlands?

In January 2025, researchers heard an endangered Australasian bittern in the Gwydir Wetlands, where the species had virtually disappeared. With only 1,300 left in Australia, they hope environmental flows will bring a breeding comeback.

Following the flows: Flow-MER’s satellite bird tracking research

Researchers reveal how waterbirds cope with Australia’s highly variable climate and hydrology, and how they “chase the floods” across vast distances. By attaching tiny satellite-tracking backpacks to 200+ birds, the project gathered more than 50,000 bird‑days of tracking data.

Sounds of Narran: waterbirds calling at Narran Lakes (Dharriwaa) on the Lower Balonne floodplain

Acoustic recorders capture the diverse bird calls at Narran Lakes, revealing the rich avian life and helping scientists monitor and protect these vital wetlands.

The Guwayda (Gwydir) Wetlands: A decade of monitoring

A decade of monitoring in the Guwayda Wetlands reveals how environmental water supports diverse species, from frogs and fish to flowering coolibah trees.

Waterbird breeding in the Lower Murrumbidgee wetlands

Widespread flooding in 2022-23 triggered massive waterbird breeding events. Discover how environmental water releases ensured chicks' survival and success.

Commonwealth water for the environment supports breeding ducks in the Western Floodplain

In Toorale National Park, a wet year and targeted water management create ideal conditions for diverse duck species to breed and thrive.

Investigating the water requirements of the endangered Australasian bittern

In the Lower Murrumbidgee Floodplain, researchers use automated call recorders to study the endangered Australasian bittern's breeding habits.

Exciting waterbird tracking update!

A juvenile Intermediate Egret, tracked from Australia to Papua New Guinea, reveals new insights into migration patterns and stopover sites.

Waterbirds on Toorale: What Have We Seen in 8 Years

Over eight years, 57 waterbird species, including the Kularku (Brolga), have been recorded in Toorale's wetlands, showcasing the area's rich biodiversity.

A boom year for waterbirds in the Murrumbidgee

In the Lowbidgee Floodplain, tens of thousands of waterbirds are thriving, thanks to targeted environmental water releases and collaborative efforts.