Birding locations in the Illawarra region
The Illawarra region of New South Wales extends from north of Wollongong, through Shellharbour and Kiama south to the Shoalhaven River. Just a 90 minute drive from Sydney, it ranges from the coast to the top of the escarpment. It boasts a wide variety of habitats including ocean and estuaries, coastal dunes, mangroves, freshwater wetlands, coastal littoral forest, dry woodlands, sub-tropical rainforest, some great parks and open farmlands.
Thanks to its diverse habitats, it is home to over 300 bird species, an amazing array in a small area. Below is a just a sample of locations to get you started in birdwatching. It includes a selection from each of our 3 local Council areas. Most of these are easy walks and are suitable for families.
For a complete list of birds at these locations, have a look at eBird, a fabulous and free online resource. Under explore, search the hotspots listed. Many of our members are active eBird users, so the lists are current, with a detailed history and many with photos.
Wollongong Council area | Shellharbour Council area | Kiama Council area |
Wollongong Botanic Garden | Killalea Reserve | Spring Creek Bird Hide |
Integral Energy Park | Bass Point Reserve | Jerrara Dam |
Puckeys Estate Reserve | Blackbutt Forest Reserve | Bonaira Native Gardens |