Join Hugh Possingham, the Nature Festival's Bird Lover in Residence, as he explores the birds that call the Adelaide Hills home.

People are bird watching more than ever before and it's not hard to see why. Birds are beautiful, fascinating and found even in the very heart of our cities including our own backyards. For many people, birds are an important part of the nature of their home.

Belair National Park occupies 835 hectares and is just 25 minutes drive from Adelaide's CBD. Set in beautiful natural bushland and with lots of public amenities, Belair is a great place to get active and enjoy nature. With 140 bird species recorded and a range of habitat types, it's also a great place to watch birds.

This bird watch and walk is suitable for beginners and bird enthusiasts alike.

While we will be following trails, be prepared to walk on some patches of uneven ground and around tripping hazards. Please wear weather appropriate clothing including a hat, suitable walking shoes and bring a water bottle. Binoculars are encouraged but not essential.

This event is suitable for children 10+.

Meet at the shelter on the north western side of the Gums Oval inside Belair National Park by 8.00 am (park gate opens at 7.30 am). NB The walk start location has changed from Playground to Gums Oval.

People registered to attend this event can enter Belair NP at no cost by showing proof of their booking at the gate. Our thanks to National Parks, Dept for Environment and Water, for waving the gate car entry fee in support of this event.

About Hugh, our Bird Lover in Residence

Professor Hugh Possingham has held many significant roles for academic and research institutions, conservation organisations, advisory boards and government; he most recently held the position of Queensland Chief Scientist. He is a professor of mathematics and zoology and has won awards in both fields. Hugh is a member of the Australian Wentworth Group of Concerned Scientists and has published over 650 peer-reviewed papers.

What he really loves to do though, is watch and talk about birds, which he does at every opportunity. He was raised in Adelaide and is a frequent visitor. We are thrilled that he has joined the Nature Festival in 2023 to share his passion and knowledge for our local feathered friends.

Image credit: VJ Russell