The bird hides have been carefully designed for bird photography.

Bird hides allow photographers to get close to the birds and capture great photos without disturbing them. It's a win-win for both bird-loving photographers and the birds! 

We cannot, however, guarantee that the birds will land. The hides are set up in locations where you have a fair idea of what you may see, with stages designed to give you the best chance of getting that great photo. The idea is to sit comfortably and wait. In most cases, it will be quiet in between visits - the birds are wild, coming and going in their on time, so patience is key. 

There are 3 different photography hides. All have been positioned in different habitats to cover a wide range of species.

Start times are to be confirmed, depending on the time of year. Usually the best time is the first few hours of light in the morning and the last few hours of light in the afternoon.  Finish time is flexible, but morning sessions are to be finished by 12 pm and afternoon sessions finished before or on dark. 

The Saltbush Bird Hide (previously known as Curlew Bird Hide)
Location: 10 minutes drive from Lake Cargelligo.
Time: Afternoon, the last few hours of light is best. 
Habitat: Salt bush paddock.
Possible highlights: Purple-backed Fairywren, White-winged Fairywren, Spotted Bowerbird.
Cost: $50 per person, per session (price will increase to $60.00 1 Jan 2027)

The Parrot Pond Hide
Location: 10 minutes drive from Lake Cargelligo
Time: Morning, the first few hours of light is best.
Habitat: Shallow pond with reeds and grasses surrounding.
Possible highlights: Yellow Rosella, Mallee Ringneck, Cockatiels, Pink Cockatoo.
Cost: $50 per person, per session (price will increase to $60.00 1 Jan 2027)

The Farm Hide 
Location: 25 minute drive from Lake Cargelligo
8-9km of dirt road, may become inaccessible after rain.
Limited phone service (telstra only)
Time: Morning, the first few hours of light is best.
Habitat: Farm watering trough positioned in a strip of remnant vegetation (between cultivated paddocks)
Possible highlights: Bluebonnet parrot, Mallee RIngnecks, Cockatiels & during the cooler months Superb Parrots.
Cost: $100 per person, per session (price reflects running costs - travelling times for preparations, escorting guests on location, as well as carting of water - no pipeline here)