 Python, Simalia amethistina (length 4m) - Lockhart River, FNQ - 12 Sept 2022 (1).JPG)
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Description
Iron Range National Park is one of Australia's iconic birding places, holding many sought after birds that are difficult to find elsewhere.
This particular site is located in deep rainforest and expected birds include: Wompoo Fruit-Dove, Superb Fruit-Dove (Eastern), Eclectus Parrot (Papuan), Magnificent Riflebird and Frill-necked Monarch.
The location is also great for night spotlighting with Marbled Frogmouth and Large-tailed Nightjar as regulars.
Sought after mammals and reptiles are also a feature of this location with Spotted Cuscus, Green Tree Python and Amethystine (Scrub) Python commonly also seen at night.
Check out Bird Spots blog on birding Iron Range generally - link below.
Details
Access
You can access the park from the south via the Peninsula Developmental Road or from the north via the challenging and unpredictable Frenchmans Track.
For both routes, you need a high clearance 4WD with recovery gear and extra supplies; and you need to be proficient in four-wheel driving.
From the park entrance, drive 18.8km along Portland Roads Road to this camping area. Press P on the map to access Google mapping.
The area can also be accessed via air from Cairns to Lockhart River and vehicle hire is available.
Terrain and Habitat
ForestConditions
Flat , WetCircular trail
NoIs a telescope useful?
Can be usefulGood birding season
All year roundBest time to visit
Summer , SpringRoute
Wide pathDifficulty walking trail
EasyAccessible by
Foot , CarBirdwatching hide / platform
NoExtra info
Most birders probably access Iron Range via professionally guided and accommodated/catered tours - a search for 'Iron Range birding tours' will reveal options.
Birders intending to arrive under their 'own steam' need to be very well resourced - this is a very remote area with often very 'dodgy' roads.
Read the Parks and Forest link for some very good advice. The page also has a link to a useful campsites layouts map.
There are also some limited accommodation options - one such is the Greenhoose; see link for further info and information on the area generally.
Links
- Cooks Hut camping area is an eBird hotspot.
- Park and Forests information.
- Greenhoose offers accommodation options close by.
- Bird Spots blog on birding Iron Range.