A short distance outside Atherton is Hasties Swamp. It is a wonderful place to just go and sit and slow down however it is better known for the birdlife.

If you love birds in general or a photographer that likes the challenge of bird in flight photos you will love Hasties.

At certain times of the year the top of the Swamp will be covered with birds in the thousands. Both the sight and sound are something to behold.

At the busiest time of the year for birds the bulk of them will be Plumed and Wandering Whistling Ducks. Very active little birds that love to breed in the grassy edges of the Swamp.

Some birds likes the Whistling Ducks are common to the Swamp but you will see some less common birds such as the Pink-eared Duck.

There is a purpose built two storey bird hide there that is first class to use especially in the rain, during which many of the birds get quite active.

Inside the hide is some information on birds that are known to frequent the Swamp, some of which that are mentioned…. like Brolgas….. I have never seen at Hasties.

You can only view or take photos of the birds from one side of the Swamp so late afternoon everything is back lit. Not ideal for photos of birds but lovely for sunsets.

Inside the hide you may also see the occasional frog, snake or bat. Make sure you look up!

Some days even when we are just passing by Atherton we will stop at the Swamp for a meal and toilet break.

There is a very short 1 klm or so dirt road into the Swamp. At times it can be quite pot holed so drive carefully for that reason and also for the sake of the wildlife.

On my most recent visit to the Swamp with my wife we noticed this animal had been hit by a car. There are also often lots of birds, mainly Swamphens, on the road.

If you slow down enough there are many animals that you will get to see make their way to the Swamp for whatever reason. You also of course have the many birds that frequent the area to entertain you.