Kuranda’s Birdworld

If you are a bird lover – or simply adore beautiful creatures – than Kuranda’s infamous Birdworld is a must-see for you! Kuranda is one of the most unique locations to visit in Tropical North Queensland and places like Birdworld add to its allure.

To get to Birdworld, the most exciting options include the Kuranda Skyrail or the Kuranda Scenic Rail – both allow you to witness the stunning rainforest surroundings on your way to the gorgeous quaint mountain village. Birdworld is conveniently located on Rob Veivers Drive, in the Kuranda Heritage Markets. Since 1980, this labour of love has been locally owned and operated by a family team and proudly flies the ‘Wildlife Tropical North Queensland’ flag.

On your arrival at Birdworld, you’ll get up close to some truly amazing birds, from Australia and abroad, in a natural rainforest habitat. Some of these birds are highly endangered and precious, meaning you’re unlikely to see them in the wild. Surrounded by beautiful landscapes full of native and exotic plant species, waterfalls and ponds, the environment replicates the natural environments of the almost 80 species that live here. Some of Birdworld’s species include:

Amazonian Macaws

These stunningly beautiful birds are distinguishable from other similar parrots by their larger beaks, light-coloured facial patches and long tails. A macaw’s feather pattern on their face is as unique as a fingerprint! These South American birds are now endangered in the wild, no thanks to rapid deforestation in the Amazon and illegal capture.

Blue-fronted Amazon

The blue-fronted amazon – which is also known as the turquoise-fronted amazon or blue-fronted parrot – is another South American native parrot from the Amazon region, but unlike the macaw, this species is common. These gorgeous birds are so named because of their blue markings above their beaks and are common pets in South America.

Black Cockatoos

The red-tailed black cockatoo (which is also known as Banksian cockatoo or Banks’ black cockatoo) is recognised by its primarily black plumage, with the male of the species displaying colourful red panels on the tail. These beauties are found in the drier parts of Australia and range from common (most northerly species) to threatened (the forest red-tailed black cockatoo and the south-eastern red-tailed black cockatoo).

The largest cockatoo species in Australia – the yellow-tailed black cockatoo – also has black/dark brown plumage, but is distinguished by its little crest on top of its head, prominent yellow cheek patches, yellow tail band and yellow tail edging. These striking birds are found in the forests of east Queensland’s south and central areas and south-eastern South Australia.

The threatened black cockatoo species are in danger from deforestation and human population, as well as bird smuggling operations.

Eclectus Parrots

These amazingly beautiful parrots come in both vibrant red (female) and vibrant green (male) varieties – both of which flock in the same groups, causing identification confusion in earlier times. The brightly coloured red-feathered females are unusual, as male birds usually tend to display the attractive colours. The Australian species of these birds inhabit forests around the tip of Cape York Peninsula and are thankfully not considered threatened, due to their protected environment.

Cassowary

The amazing cassowary is known as a ratite (flightless bird) and is a huge, foraging species that populate north-eastern Australian regions. Their main diet consists of fruit, but they have also been known to eat seeds, shoots and even small animals. These generally shy creatures often evade humans in the wild, but if cornered, can become quite ferocious and have even been known to severely injure people with their dangerous middle toe claw.

Other species at Birdworld include:

• King Parrot
• Fig Parrot
• Rainbow Lorikeets
• Galahs,
• Luzon Bleeding Heart Doves
• Peaceful Doves
• Rainbow Lorikeets
• Green Cheeked Conures
• Major Mitchell Cockatoos
• Zebra Finches
• And many more

Whatever you do, don’t forget to bring your camera!