The Northern Territory is home to some of Australia’s – if not the world’s - most incredible birdlife, and the Red Centre will be at the heart of the action in September during the Red Centre Bird Festival at Alice Springs Desert Park.

The Red Centre Bird Festival, which runs from 4-8 September 2019, celebrates the diversity of our birdlife and is the ideal opportunity for experienced birders to tick a few species off their list, or for beginners to get a taste of the fantastic variety of birdlife that calls the Territory home.

The region is home to 180 bird species, which are found in a range of stunning, diverse habitats. Although the area has experienced dry spells, sedentary species such as the Dusky Grasswren continue to be sighted close to Alice Springs, and species that are a rarity elsewhere are regularly encountered in the Red Centre.

Alice Springs Desert Park is at the top of the pecking order when it comes to birding, with the reticulated botanic garden providing a haven for species such as Honeyeaters and Fairy-wrens. The Park is becoming internationally famous as the most reliable place in Australia to see the enigmatic Grey Honeyeater, one of the most sought-after but elusive Honeyeaters in the world.

The Red Centre Bird Festival is brought to you by Tourism NT, Alice Springs Desert Park, Birdlife Central Australia and Friends of the Desert Park.

For the full festival program visit https://alicespringsdesertpark.com.au/whats-on/red-centre-bird-festival and follow the Red Centre Bird Festival on Facebook at www.facebook.com/redcentrebirdfestival.

Quotes from Alice Springs Desert Park Zoology Operations Manager, Bruce Pascoe:

“Birding in the Northern Territory is phenomenal both for the variety of birds found here and the incredible landscapes they inhabit.

“We encourage locals and visitors to get out and about and enjoy the planned activities. There is something for everyone, from beginner birders to experienced birdwatchers, nature lovers and those just eager to enjoy our great outdoors.

“Highlights of this year’s event include Birds for Beginners, where you can learn from a local bird expert; the Language of Birds, where you will learn what basic bird calls mean and why it’s helpful to know; a Bird Photography Workshop that covers all aspects of capturing our feathered friends on camera; and Birds at Sunset, where we will spot waterbirds and migratory waders.”

Media Contact: Estelle Marshall 0401 116 209