Things to do and places to visit to enjoy nature in Kojonup
Enjoying nature and wildlife is a must-try activity when visiting Kojonup. Whether you’re an adventurous type or just starting to explore the wilderness, one of the activities worth doing is birdwatching in Kojonup.
But why birdwatching?
Aside from being a great hobby, birdwatching gives an array of health benefits to humans. If you are new to this outdoor activity, here are some of the reasons to consider watching birds:
Watching birds is good for your mental health.
Those who have experienced birdwatching say that they tend to slow down when watching the birds. Instead of hurrying up to finish the trail, they shift their focus on the feathery creatures around them. Indeed, birdwatching can give you a different perspective and helps you calm your mind. In one study, people who live in neighbourhoods with more birds and trees are less stressed and experience less anxiety and depression.
It is good for your physique.
Since you go out of the house when birdwatching, you are forced to stretch those legs to walk around the birding areas. As evidenced by a multitude of research, walking regularly can help you live longer. Since watching birds can lure you into strolling farther than you typically do, this can make a big difference to your health in the long term.
Birdwatching helps you connect with nature.
People often develop an intimate connection with the environment when going out to watch the birds in their natural habitat. You start to appreciate and value nature’s beauty, and eventually, you become more motivated to go outside and develop a love for Mother Nature.
It can help you connect with your family and friends.
While some prefer watching birds alone, this is also a great way to form and strengthen your bond with other people. Birdwatching is a family-friendly activity that people of all ages can enjoy.
Where to Bo Birdwatching in Kojonup?
A bird watcher’s paradise, The Land Down Under is home to various endemic species of birds. Kojonup, nestled in the Great Southern region of the country, is home to almost 100 species of native birds.
Kojonup is a bustling rural community popular for its natural freshwater spring that dates back in the 1800s. It is said that this spring attracted the first European settlers to the town. The Old Military Barracks, located near the freshwater spring, is said to be the oldest surviving military building in Kojonup and in Western Australia.
Immerse yourself in this blissful community and stay for a few days to explore the birding areas.
Here are some of the best spots for watching birds in Kojonup and surrounding areas:
Kojonup Bush Heritage Reserve
The largest area of wandoo woodlands is located in this reserve. Over 80 species of bush birds have been sighted and found breeding in Kojonup Reserve. The best time to visit is during spring, since summer can be hot and with a high risk of wildfires. When you visit in spring, you will see the beautiful varieties of wildflowers and bird activities in Kojonup Reserve. Getting here from Perth is a three-hour drive. If you are coming from Albany, you must spend two hours on the road to get here.
Myrtle Benn Flora and Fauna Sanctuary
Located just outside of Kojonup, this small reserve is home to the Red-Tailed Phascogale, other native birds (53 different species according to one birder) and small mammals. The presence of marri and wandoo trees makes the sanctuary a suitable nesting area for birds. Other interesting species found here include Little-eagle, Brown goshawk, and grey fantail.
Quick fact: This reserve is named after founder Mrs Myrtle Benn, a school teacher who was fond of bringing her students outdoors.
Farrar Reserve
Located west of Kojonup, the Farrar Reserve contains over 1,000 acres of woodland and wildflowers, including some endangered species of plants. It is a habitat for waterbirds like Musk Duck, Australasian Grebe, Fairy-wren, Scarlet, and Regent Parrot, among others. If you’re done birdwatching, you can also do other activities like running, walking, and cycling.
Lake Towerrinning Reserve
It is a 265-hectare property that is not only popular for watching birds but also for water activities like kayaking, water skiing, and swimming. Walking the trail usually takes 1.5 hours to complete. During the walk, you may see some Blue-billed ducks and other water birds and bush birds in the area. Lake Towerrinning Reserve is about 46 km northwest of Kojonup.
Some other areas to explore include Show Ground and Golf Complex, Martup Reserve, Reserve Areas in Boscabel, and Birdwood Reserve. These are all just a few minutes away from the heart of Kojonup. Aside from being able to watch the different species of birds, when you visit these areas, you can do other outdoor activities that will surely make your trip to Kojonup memorable.
Here is a quick tip: read up on some of the birds mentioned in this article ahead of time! There are many exciting qualities of birds that you will indeed find surprising and will pique your curiosity once you get to know them.
Also, remember to record your experience through your camera or mobile phone. Then share these mementos with your friends to encourage them to also go birdwatching on your next visit.
Ready to go birdwatching? Book your accommodation at Cornwall House Accommodation.
If you have been planning to experience the best of Western Australia, starting with birdwatching, then we are here to help you plan your trip now. But first, make sure that you book your stay at an accessible place like Cornwall House Accommodation.
Cornwall House Accommodation is strategically located at the heart of Kojonup, making everything easier for you during your whole stay. After your birdwatching adventures, rest assured that you will have a relaxing experience in our accommodation.
Ours is a new 10-room motel located on Albany Highway. All our rooms have a complimentary Internet connection, coffee and tea-making facilities, and reverse cycle air-conditioning. Call us now on tel:+61898310214 for enquiries or email stay@cornwallhouseaccommodation.com.au to book in advance.
