From a broad range of birds to incredible flora, Kakadu National Park is extremely biodiverse.
In fact, there are over 2.000 species of plants found in the national park. Additionally, one-third of all birds in Australia reside in Kakadu National Park.
What is a wetland?
A wetland can be defined as an area of soil that is either covered in water or has water located near the surface all year round.
When it comes to Kakadu National Park, you can find around 7,000 square kilometres of wetlands. If you’re not sure what that means, it means that the wetlands make up almost a third of the entire national park!
Importance of wetlands
There are many important roles that wetlands play in planet health. They help filter water and maintain a water supply. When there is bad rain and flooding, the wetlands act as a natural sponge and soak up excess rainfall. During the dry season, they release water that has been stored. They also store carbon that is taken out of our atmosphere and help keep our air clean.
The flora of Kakadu’s wetlands
Water lilies are one of the most recognisable flowers that grows in Kakadu’s wetlands. They are commonly spotted along most waterways in the national park.
There are also an abundance of grasses, trees and other flowers located throughout the wetland!
The fauna of Kakadu’s wetlands
Many birds live in the wetlands of Kakadu National Park, while others stop by during the breeding season. Birds such as Jabirus and Broglas often hang out around the shallow waters. Meanwhile White-Bellied Sea Eagles patrol the deeper waters for fresh fish.
Jabiru bird
Another resident of the wetlands is the infamous saltwater crocodile. In fact, there are over 10,000 crocs that live in Kakadu. If you want to see these creatures up close, you can board a crocodile spotting cruise or head to a viewing platform.
There are heaps of fish that live in the waters of the wetlands, with the most well-known Barramundi. You can often spot the fish of the wetlands on a crocodile spotting cruise.
That is just the tip of the iceberg, with the wetlands being home to an abundant amount of animals!
Take a day trip to Kakadu
Nourlangie Rock
Explore the wetlands of Kakadu National Park on this one day explorer tour. This tour takes you to explore the highlights of the national park in just one day!
We will begin the day with a cruise through the Kakadu wetlands to try and spot saltwater crocodiles. You will also be able to spot birds and other wildlife from the comfort and safety of the boat. Next we will learn more about the significance of the area at the Warradjan Aboriginal Cultural Centre. Not only will you learn about the Indigenous history, but you will also be able to view incredible locally made art. The last stop of the day will be at the Nourlangie Rock Art Site to view historic rock art.
Now that you’re an expert on Kakadu’s wetlands, it’s time to go exploring!
