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Bird Watching Tours with Wolgan Eco Tours
February 11 @ 6:30 am - 10:30 am
An event every week that begins at 6:30 am on Sunday and Saturday, repeating until 31 March 2024
DURATION: 4 HOURS
Join our local expert guide on this small-group birdwatching tour and discover the unique woodland bird species of the awe-inspiring natural amphitheatre of Wolgan Valley in the Greater Blue Mountains NSW.
Marvel at the majesty of a soaring Wedge-tailed Eagle or be captivated by the morning symphony of the Superb Lyrebird.
This magical early morning vehicle and walking tour provides superb birding opportunities with exclusive access to some of the valleys best birding locations, as well as the chance to experience some of the region’s most spectacular scenery in the Gardens of Stone State Conservation Area.
Learn about the conservation issues facing threatened species like the critically endangered Regent Honeyeater and the vulnerably listed Glossy-black Cockatoo and contribute to wildlife conservation through helping us survey the many bird species that we encounter throughout our journey.
WHAT TO EXPECT
Your day begins in our 4WD vehicle, departing at 6:30am from the Seven Valleys Visitor Information Centre, Lithgow. Relax in air-conditioned comfort as our passionate local expert guide introduces you to the Wollemi and Gardens of Stone region, and the special woodland bird species that call our destination of Wolgan Valley home.
Our first stop of the day is at Wolgan Gap in Mayingu Marragu, a place of strong cultural significance to the traditional owners of this landscape, the Wiradjuri Nation. Whilst taking in the breathtaking scenery over Wolgan Valley, your knowledgeable local guide will share with you the incredible geological story of UNESCO world heritage-listed Greater Blue Mountains region, and the fascinating history of Wolgan Valley including a visit by naturalist Charles Darwin in 1836.
After a brief stop, we return to our 4WD vehicle and with exclusive access we safely navigate the Donkey Steps, reported to be the steepest road in Australia. As we near the valley floor surrounded by towering Ribbon Gum and Grey Gum forest, listen for the incessant bell-like call of the Bell Miner.
As the towering gum forests slowly open to woodland and farming land, our passionate local guide will share with you the history of intensive agriculture and heavy industry in the valley, and how the community of Wolgan Valley is working towards a more sustainable future through ecotourism, regenerative agriculture and agritourism.
Our next stop is in the beautiful Gardens of Stone State Conservation Area, where we are welcomed by the early morning chorus of woodland birds. A short 800m easy return walk will lead you through box-stringybark forest where our experienced birding guide will share with you their knowledge of the bird species that inhabit this location including the threatened Glossy Black Cockatoo and the conservation issues that they face. There will also be ample opportunity for you to participate in wildlife conservation through surveying the unique and diverse birdlife we encounter at this location.
On return to our 4WD, we continue our birding journey with exclusive access to private property and another of our favourite birding locations. Here we enjoy a delicious morning tea of locally baked goods and seasonal fruit whilst taking in the spectacular sandstone escarpment of the surrounding Wollemi National Park and the tranquil waters of Wolgan River.
Following morning tea, a 1.5km easy return walk will lead you through tranquil grassy woodlands to encounter the many bird species that call this special location home. Learn about the threats that face the critically endangered Regent Honeyeater and the conservation efforts that have been undertaken on this property and throughout Wolgan Valley. Again, there will be opportunity to contribute to wildlife conservation through helping us survey the many bird species that we encounter along the way.
After a morning of fruitful birding, sit back and relax, reflecting on the morning that has been, as we head back to Lithgow.
Our small group tours ensure ample opportunities to connect with our local guide, ask questions, and fully appreciate the diversity of bird species that call Wolgan Valley home.
INCLUSIONS
- Return vehicle transfers to the Seven Valleys Visitor Information Centre, Lithgow or accommodation in Wolgan Valley, Lidsdale, Wallerawang, Portland or Lithgow.
- Small group size maximum 4 people.
- Your own local expert birding guide.
- A delicious morning tea with your choice of espresso coffee, tea, hot chocolate, fruit juice and bottled water (using our reusable water bottles).
- Comfort of a modern air conditioned 4WD vehicle.
- Use of binoculars, spotting scope and tablet device for recording bird sightings.
- Visits Wolgan Gap (Mayingu Marragu), Gardens of Stone State Conservation Area, Wollemi National Park and exclusive access to private property where some of the best birding locations in Wolgan Valley can be found.
TOUR DEPARTURES
Our Birdwatching Tour departs at 6:30am and returns at 10:30am to the Seven Valleys Information Centre 1137 Great Western Highway, Lithgow NSW 2790. Alternatively, we offer complimentary return vehicle transfers for guests staying at accommodation in Wolgan Valley, Lidsdale, Wallerawang, Portland and Lithgow.
LEVEL OF DIFFICULTY
GRADE 2: NO BUSHWALKING EXPERIENCE REQUIRED
The track is hardened or compacted surface and may have a gentle hill section or sections and occasional steps.
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