Australian Outback Desert
Desert & Arid
Birds
Intermediate
Australia — Alice Springs
May to August
Overview
Desert birding around waterholes that concentrate avian life in the Red Centre.
Equipment
- Binoculars
- Scope
- 5L water minimum
- Sun protection
Safety Notes
- Extreme heat — restrict activity to early morning
- Remote areas — inform someone of your plans
Identification Tips
1
Waterholes at dawn concentrate all desert birds
2
Budgerigars flock in thousands after good rains
3
Wedge-tailed eagles circle over carcasses
Species Checklist
| Species | Likelihood | Tip |
|---|---|---|
| Budgerigar | common | Huge flocks near water after rain |
| Wedge-tailed Eagle | common | Soaring or at carcasses |
| Spinifex Pigeon | common | Rocky gorges near water |
| Princess Parrot | rare | Mulga woodland, nomadic |