Birdwatching at Mount Field with Premier Travel Tasmania
Difficulty
moderate
Duration
8 hours
Fitness Level
Participants should be able to walk several kilometers on uneven terrain at a relaxed to steady pace.
Overview
Spend a day bird spotting in Tasmania’s oldest national park with Premier Travel Tasmania. Spot rare birds and maybe even a wild platypus on this private guided tour to Mount Field National Park and Gould’s Lagoon Sanctuary.
1 Day Bird Spotting Encounter (Private Tour)
Birdwatching in Tasmania’s oldest National Park
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About This Adventure
Embark on a private guided tour to Mount Field National Park, Tasmania's oldest park. Explore Gould’s Lagoon Sanctuary, home to diverse waterbirds, and wander through lush rainforests to stunning waterfalls and towering trees. Enjoy a chance to spot the iconic Platypus in the wild, making for an unforgettable day in nature.
About
At 8.30 am, your private tour guide will meet you at your accommodation in Hobart. Our journey today takes us to Mount Field National Park, the oldest in the state. The first stop is Gould’s Lagoon Sanctuary, an important refuge, feeding and breeding area for waterbirds along the River Derwent. Many bird species are attracted to the area, including Black Swans, Pelicans, Black Ducks, Chestnut Teals, Purple Swamp Hens, Egrets, White-faced Herons and Cormorants. Our journey continues through the picturesque Derwent Valley, which is dotted with orchards, hop fields and quaint reminders of the historical origins of the area. Arriving at Mount Field National Park, be mesmerised by the lush forest landscapes from eucalyptus temperate rainforest to alpine moorland. Your guide provides an interpretation along the rainforest walk to Russell Falls, Horseshoe Falls and the Tall Trees, some of the world's tallest flowering trees. This cool temperate rainforest gives you the opportunity to search for some of Tasmania’s 12 endemic bird species, including Scrubtit, Black Currawong and Tasmanian Thornbill. After lunch, with some luck, you may have an opportunity to observe the unique duck bill and webbed feet Platypus in the wild. This semiaquatic, egg-laying mammal is endemic to eastern Australia, including Tasmania and is a recognisable and iconic symbol of Australia.
Duration
Eight Hours
What's included
A full-day private guided tour, transport in a well-appointed vehicle, lunch, and National Parks pass.
If your group is larger than 4 people please contact us for a quote.
Adventure Tips
Bring binoculars and a field guide
Essential for spotting and identifying diverse bird species around Gould’s Lagoon and the rainforest trails.
Wear sturdy, waterproof footwear
Rainforest paths can be wet and slippery near waterfalls; good traction improves safety and comfort.
Carry insect repellent
Prepare for mosquitoes especially near water bodies during warmer months to keep your focus on wildlife watching.
Silence your phone or camera shutter
Low noise levels help avoid disturbing shy birds and the sensitive platypus habitat.
Local Insights
Wildlife
- Tasmanian Thornbill
- Black Currawong
- Platypus
History
Mount Field was Tasmania's first national park, officially established in 1916 to protect its old-growth forests and unique wildlife.
Conservation
Efforts focus on preserving endemic species and habitats through responsible tourism and visitor education about local ecology.
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Adventure Hotspots in Hobart
Frequently Asked Questions
Recommended Gear
Binoculars
For clear close-up views of birds and wildlife throughout the journey.
Waterproof hiking boots
Protect feet from wet, slippery forest trails and stream crossings.
fall|spring|winter specific
Layered clothing
Weather can change quickly; layers allow you to adjust comfort in a cool rainforest climate.
all specific
Insect repellent
Keeps biting insects at bay during warmer months near water and dense forest.
summer specific