Top Birdwatching Sites in Sydney

Sydney is one of the best places in Australia to experience native birdlife. From Superb Fairy-wrens to the unmistakable laugh of a Kookaburra, the city boasts over 350 species of native birds and many more introduced and migratory species, all within easy access within and surrounding the city. I was a birdwatcher from a young age and local encounters are a source of inspiration for my Australian bird art.

1. Sydney Olympic Park & Bicentennial Park

This huge urban reserve is home to wetlands, mangroves, and woodlands. The Waterbird Refuge is a big drawcard for bird lovers all over Sydney. Thousands of birds, native and migratory, come here to feed and roost. The bird hide is the ideal spot from which to observe the birds without disturbing them. For a Sydney based bird artist, it’s an endless source of inspiration for my watercolour bird paintings.

2. Royal Botanic Gardens

Right in the heart of the city, the Gardens are a peaceful retreat with Rainbow Lorikeets and Sulphur-crested Cockatoos. Expect to see ducks and shorebirds such as the native Australian White Ibis and purple swamphens along the lakes.

3. Centennial Parklands

A haven for both locals and migratory species, Centennial Park is famous for waterbirds such as Black Swans, Cormorants, Egrets and Moorhens.

4. The GreenWay

Running through Sydney’s Inner West, the GreenWay is a spot to see shorebirds along Hawthorne Canal. Superb Fairy-wrens, White faced herons and the occasional bush turkey can be found along the path.

6. Malabar Headland

There is plenty of bird life along the trail walk through Malabar Headland. Expect to see White Bellied Sea Eagles along the cliffs, and Peregrine falcons. In the winter months, it is also an ideal spot to spot humpback whales on their annual migration. Expect to see Willie Wagtails, New Holland Honeyeaters, White Browed Scrubwrens and Superb Fairy Wrens.

Bringing Birdwatching Home

Bring Australian birdlife to your home. If you’re inspired by Sydney’s birdlife and would love a piece of Australian bird art, take a look at my Australian bird watercolours and fine art prints

Quokkas Corner - Watercolour of an Australian masked lapwing