We have been travelling around Australia in a van and along our journey we stopped in at the Broome Bird Observatory. Our birdwatching began in Adelaide a few months earlier, where we bought our first pair of binoculars. But it wasn't until we got to the BBO that we really started to see how enjoyable birding could be!

Steph and Jarrad began birding in Adelaide - but the BBO took their birding to the next level.

In our first week we booked a bush & plains and shore bird tour. With the expertise of Ben and his team, it made all the difference. Having no real clue about birds ourselves, they were able to show us, identify and explain the interesting facts behind a huge range of birds!

There were a lot of things at the BBO that we enjoyed, aside from the tours. Being greeted by wallabies and an array of birds at the birdbaths every morning for breakfast. We attempted 'chatting', walking out to the Roebuck plains to enjoy a sunrise and try and catch a glimpse of the elusive Yellow Chat! As well as walking along the beautiful Roebuck bay and it's stunning red beaches.

We initially had booked for one week but were lucky enough to be able to extend for another. We were glad we did so we could enjoy a mangroves tour and got to put on a pair of mud boots. We also enjoyed a beautiful sunset on the Roebuck plains where we finally saw Yellow Chats in golden hour and their nests.

Over the course of two weeks at the BBO we saw a Frill-necked Lizard, Mulga Snake, Green Tree Frogs in the toilet and totalled 110 species of birds. Since then we have seen so many more birds and our usual hike is now doubled in time getting lost looking at and photographing birds seen along the way.

We recommend the Bird Observatory for anyone of any age or interests - there is so much to learn and enjoy here.

Some New Birding Recruits