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Description
Orchard Grove Reserve offers a variety of habitats, centered around a creek that attracts both resident and seasonal bird species. The reserve features remnant native vegetation alongside regenerated bushland, with additional pockets of open grassland providing varied sighting locations.
The creek line supports riparian species year-round, with White-faced Heron occasionally spotted during warmer months. The woodland area is home the Crimson Rosella, Rainbow Lorikeet, Laughing Kookaburra, Australian King-Parrot, and the Red Wattlebird. During autumn and winter, the reserve becomes busy with Magpie-larks, Pied Currawongs, Little Ravens, and Noisy Miners.
What makes Orchard Grove Reserve special is its accessibility via well-maintained walking trails that allow quiet observation without disturbing the wildlife. The linear layout of the reserve creates an excellent birding walk/loop, with the gentle sound of flowing water providing a peaceful backdrop. Early morning visits (dawn to 9 AM) offer the best birding opportunities when activity is at its peak, particularly near the creek crossings where multiple habitat types converge. A series of rough and steep dirt tracks are present closer to the creek banks, providing lower-down viewing and occasional sightings of ducks.
Details
Access
Orchard Grove Reserve is located in Blackburn South, about 20 kilometers east of Melbourne's city center. Parking: The reserve is accessible with parking lots available for visitors near 109 Orchard Grove. Press P on the map for directions. Public transport: Multiple bus routes (735, 736) travel along the southern border of the reserve
The park offers bike paths and walking paths with walking being ideal for birding. Visits in the morning offer more variety, especially as the foot traffic through increases in the afternoon.