You can discover more than a third of Australia’s bird species, over 300, at Broome Bird Observatory, regarded as the hottest spot on the planet for viewing migratory shorebirds.

The observatory is nestled on Roebuck Bay, a 35-minute drive east from Broome. Flights from Perth to Broome take two and a half hours, and transfers to the observatory are available from Broome when you book one of the guided tours, each showcasing a different habitat and its diverse birdlife.

Spot up to 50 species on red-sand beaches on the Shorebirds Tour. Look out for the mangrove grey fantail and broad-billed flycatcher on the Mangrove Tour. See a host of freshwater shorebirds and birds of prey on the Lakes Tour. Discover a rich diversity of species on the ever-changing Bush and Plains Tour. Scan the samphire flats for one of Australia’s most elusive species on the Yellow Chat Twitch Tour, or hone your birding skills on one of the popular courses.

Learn about the ecological importance of Roebuck Bay, and find out about the observatory’s vital research and conservation work. The observatory also offers a range of basic accommodation, including units, a cottage, and an un-powered campground with a bush kitchen.