Wildlife Watching

The diverse natural environment of Centennial Parklands is home to many different animals. The reed-fringed freshwater ponds, relatively wild areas with long grass and native trees, and Lachlan Swamp provide significant habitat for many native species including possums, birds, bats and turtles.

Popular wildlife watching spots

Popular sites for spotting both land and water birds include Duck Pond, Willow Pond and Lachlan Swamp. Sulphur-crested and yellow tailed black cockatoos are commonly seen in the Pine Forest and Sandstone Ridge where they feed on pine cones.

Lachlan Swamp provides habitat to blue-tongue lizards, brush-tail possums and a variety of invertebrates. This is a perfect location to see leaf-curling spiders during the warmer months and even Tawny Frogmouths.

Freshwater turtles can often be spotted basking on the islands in Duck Pond, as well as on the rocky berm at the eastern end of Duck Pond. During quiet periods, some turtles will emerge from the water in Lily Pond to bask on the sandstone edging.

The spectacular golden orb spiders are common in late summer, particularly along the vegetation at the side of Robertson Rd Gates. Look for the tiny males who are dwarfed on the web by the enormous female spiders.

Large numbers of grey-headed flying foxes - also known as fruit bats - fly into the Parklands each night from a camp in Sydney’s northern suburbs to feed on nectar, blossoms and the fruit of the fig, paperbark and gum trees. At twilight, stand at the Robertson Rd Gates to observe these amazing animals as they congregate for their nightly ritual. At this location, you may also be able to glimpse the tiny microbats flitting between the trees as they search for insects.

Nesting season

During late October and November, freshwater turtles may be seen migrating overland to seek out nesting locations. Many choose to lay eggs in the sandy areas on pond edges.

If turtles are found on the road, it is recommended that they are placed on the side of the road in the direction they are travelling.

During spring, many adults birds are teaching their fledging young to fly.

Young birds are often found on the ground during this phase. Unless these fledglings are in danger of being injured, they should not be moved or relocated.

The nests of water birds such as cormorants, darters, ducks and swans can be seen on the islands of Duck and Lily Ponds.

Protecting wildlife

Animals in Centennial Parklands are wild and are not pets. Feeding the animals is not encouraged as it may cause the animals to become dependant on an artificial food source which is not healthy for them and it may cause them to become aggressive.

Visitors are not permitted to release domestic ducks or geese into Centennial Park as they interbreed with native birds, weakening the genetic strength of the native species. Domestic ducks and geese are also unable to fend for themselves after being in captivity and can easily fall prey to foxes.

Sick or injured animals

If you find a sick or injured animal please do not handle it. Call the Rangers on (02) 9339 6699 during business hours, or 0412 718 611 after hours.

Register your sighting

To register the sighting of an unusual bird or animal, please email the Rangers at info@centennialparklands.com.au.

Further Information

Regular Ranger-guided activities are available to educate visitors about our wildlife and the significance of Centennial Parklands as urban habitat.

Please visit our Events Calendar for more information.