Wetlands can cover over a third of Whiteman Park. Numerous water birds are attracted to court and breed here each year, providing an ideal metropolitan location for birdwatchers to experience their ecology first-hand.
There has been 29 water bird species recorded in the Park, from nesting pairs of black swans (Cygnus atratus) that return to Horse Swamp year-on-year, to the more common Australia white ibis (Threkskiornis moluccus).
During the winter months, and even into summer some years, the swamp is inundated with water, bringing the area to life. Grebes, lapwings, egrets and seven different duck species can be seen during the wetter months, with a bird hide and lookout adjacent to the swamp providing a sheltered spot for novice and professional birders alike.
Of course, Horse Swamp is not the only wetland visited by these species, so be sure to look for these water birds in any of the wetland areas accessible to the public.
