Description
Mount Ive is a fairly remote station 500 km NW of Adelaide and 200 km west of Port Augusta in the Gawler Ranges. It is a 'go-to' location for both Western Grasswren and Short-tailed Grasswren.
From the Mount Ive website: "We have a wide range of birds that are resident or visit the station including the Western and Short-tailed Grasswrens, Mulga Parrots, Crimson and White-fronted Chats, White-fronted and Pied Honeyeaters, Splendid and White-wing Fairywrens to name a few.
The Station is one of the few accessible sites where the Short-tailed Grasswren (a South Aust endemic) can be found. Like all grasswrens, it is best to search for them early morning when there is little wind. The Western Grasswren can be seen in the bluebush around the dam near the homestead. The honeyeaters frequent the flowering Eremophila on the edge of Lake Gairdner".
Birders should note that searching for Short-tailed Grasswren off track will require picking lines over rocky slopes amongst spiky spinifex clumps.
Details
Access
Mount Ive station can be accessed via a number of routes. Press P on the map to access Google mapping.
Terrain and Habitat
Mountain , Scattered trees and bushesConditions
HillyCircular trail
NoIs a telescope useful?
NoGood birding season
All year roundBest time to visit
Spring , WinterRoute
Narrow trailDifficulty walking trail
StrenuousAccessible by
Car , FootBirdwatching hide / platform
NoExtra info
Mount Ive summit can be climbed on foot or by (high clearance) 4WD (drivers will be required to sign a liability waiver).
The station charges a fee of (as at April 2025) $ 20 for vehicular access but walkers can proceed for free. Mount Ive has a range of accommodation options - check out their website.