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Alice Springs Sewage Ponds

Alice Springs, Northern Territory  >  Australia

Stunningly beautiful location in the arid centre for resident water and bush birds and a stop over for migratory and vagrant birds. Guided access required.

Added* by Tanya Hattingh
Most recent update 13 december 2023

Description

Alice Springs Sewage Ponds is a fenced area of water treatment ponds holding waterfowl and migratory birds surrounded by saltbush and other vegetation - eucalyptus, etc. All surrounded by rocky escarpment. The bird life at the waste stabilisation ponds is spectacular, with many rare species gathering around this body of water. Purpose built bird nesting islands, as well as a bird screen and interpretive signs have also been constructed at this site.

Over 200 species of birds have been sighted at the waste water treatment ponds, particularly waterbirds, migratory waders (mostly October to April), resident waders, raptors, as well as passerines.

Requires guided access (free with volunteer) arranged through Alice Springs Visitor Information Centre. Also required is online induction prior to entry at PowerWater. See the links below.

Details

Access

The ponds are just south of Heavitree Gap. Drive south from town along the Stuart Highway, and turn west onto Commonage Road (which leads to the Waste Management Facility). Just before the Waste Management Facility gates, turn left along the eastern edge of the ponds. Park near the Birder Access Gate. Click on the P in the map for directions or coordinates.

Terrain and Habitat

Desert , Scattered trees and bushes , Wetland , Reedbeds

Conditions

Flat , Open landscape

Circular trail

Yes

Is a telescope useful?

Can be useful

Good birding season

All year round

Best time to visit

Spring , Summer

Route

Wide path

Difficulty walking trail

Easy

Accessible by

Foot

Birdwatching hide / platform

No

Links

View other birding spots in the area that are published on Birdingplaces

Map

Top 5 birds

Other birds you can see here

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