Bird Survey Walk

Celebrate the Centenary of Balls Head Reserve by joining respected birdwatching enthusiast and ecological horticulturist Ross Rapmund for an early morning bird survey across Berry Island and Balls Head Reserve. Together, we'll record the bird species observed in these important Sydney Harbour bushland reserves and learn more about their habitat values.

The survey will begin in the open forest of Berry Island Reserve (4 hectares), where participants will search for and record the bird species present in the reserve. At 8:30 am, participants will be transported by shuttle bus to Balls Head Reserve (10 hectares) to continue the survey through its diverse bushland habitats.

This is a wonderful opportunity to learn more about local birdlife and the value of urban bushland as habitat for native species. We will be hoping to observe some of the area's resident birds, including Laughing Kookaburras, Sacred Kingfishers, White-browed Scrubwrens and Variegated Fairywrens. With a little luck, participants may also spot a White-bellied Sea Eagle soaring above Sydney Harbour.

Suitable for both experienced birdwatchers and beginners, this guided survey will provide insights into bird identification, habitat values and the ecological importance of these treasured reserves.

A shuttle bus will be available to transport participants from Waverton Train Station to Berry Island Reserve, the starting point of the survey. Following the Berry Island survey, participants will be shuttled to Balls Head Reserve to complete the second survey, where the activity will conclude.

What to bring

• Sturdy enclosed footwear with good grip

• Sun protection, including a hat and sunscreen

• Clothing appropriate for the weather conditions

• A bottle of drinking water

• Binoculars (if you have them)
  

Facilities

Toilets are available at Berry Island Reserve.

Suitable for

Adults and older teenagers.

Accessibility

This activity is not wheelchair accessible as it will follow narrow and uneven bushland tracks

Join us for this special Centenary event and discover the birdlife of Berry Island and Balls Head Reserve while contributing to a snapshot of the species found across these important Sydney Harbour bushland reserves.