Celebrate the diverse birdlife of Central Australia at the Alice Springs Desert Park annual Red Centre Bird Festival, a five day festival that runs from next Wednesday 20 to Sunday 24 September.

ASDP Director Paul Ah Chee ‘Ngala’ said Birding in the Northern Territory is just as much about the bird as it is about the location, with Alice Springs Australia’s premier outback destination for birdlife. 

“Alice Springs has a suite of birdlife unlike anything else on offer around the country, including amazing iconic species such as Budgies, Spinifex Pigeons and Crimson Chats,” Mr Ah Chee said.

“These iconic species are rare and you would struggle to find them elsewhere, but in Central Australia they are a common sight and we want to share them with the world.

“We are encouraging locals and visitors to enjoy what the Red Centre has to offer with activities for experienced birdwatchers, nature lovers and those starting the journey.”

The Red Centre Bird Festival includes early morning and evening bird watching field trips, tag-along tours, photography workshops, wildlife photo gallery, a big bird race and a special presentation by John Young.

This year’s highlights include:

John Young Reveals All on the Night Parrot, Thursday 21 September, 7pm - 9pm - Alice Springs Desert Park
John Young returns to the Red Centre after a sell-out event in 2014 to lay it all on the table. In 2013, after an absence of more than 75 years, the Night Parrot was rediscovered by John in the culmination of a 15 year search. Tickets are on sale now and will sell out.

The Big Bird Race, Saturday 23 September, 6am – 6pm
Join the BIGGEST bird race in the heart of Australia! Watch the clock as you race to spot the largest amount of bird species in a limited time. New at birdwatching? Don’t stress, the Central Australian Bird Checklist will become your new friend. Wrap up the day at 6pm with a casual dinner and quirky awards. Pre-registration required.

All Things Feathered Family Day, Sunday 24 September, 7.30am - 6pm - Alice Springs Desert Park
Celebrate all things feathered with a day exploring the Desert Park with a specialised program. Something for all ages with walk through aviaries, demonstrations and presentations including the popular Nature Theatre free flying bird show (10am & 3.30pm). Standard entry fees apply.

The Northern Territory is home to more than 400 species of birds and is a bird watching paradise. For more information on birding trails and activities in the NT visit www.northernterritory.com/birding

For more information on the Red Centre Bird Festival program and to book activities visit www.alicespringsdesertpark.com.au/plan/events.shtml 

The Red Centre Bird Festival is brought to you by the Department of Tourism and Culture, Birdlife Central Australia, Friends of the Desert Park, Australian Wildlife Conservancy, Mark Carter Birding & Wildlife and Olive Pink Botanic Gardens.

Media Contact – Estelle Marshall 0401 116 209