: News Article

Paddle Ross Dam to see birdlife

05/02/2004

NQ Water is offering the public the chance to go beak to nose with an osprey, sea eagle or yellow wagtail this Sunday (8 Feb).

A canoeing expedition on Ross River Dam is being hosted as part of World Wetlands Day. The exhibition will feature Water Boy who is pruning his colourful plumage for the occasion.

The dam boasts more than 190 species of birds making it one of the largest and most important habitats in the state said NQ Water Environment Manager, Rob Hunt.

“This is a rare opportunity to see Ross Dam from the ground level and recent rains promise greater access to the wildlife than usual,” said Mr Hunt.

“The birds that have been sitting in deep water refuges for the drought should be coming to the fringes of the dam to feed.”

Canoeists will paddle to the northern side of the dam for the chance to see lotus birds and thousands of black swans, geese and ducks, Mr Hunt said.

“The tour will broach nests of white bellied sea eagles,” he said. “Participants will also get the chance to see Osprey, Black Tailed Native Hens as well as flocks of Black Ducks and Pygmy Geese.”

The tour leaves Ross Dam Park at seven a.m. and is expected to take three hours.

Participants are encouraged to be sunsmart; with sunscreen, hats and appropriate clothing. Binoculars are also recommended.

Canoeists are expected to provide their own craft and safety gear, including life jackets.

© 2004 NQ Water