Chestnut Rail Sunset Cruise

September 26, 2017

 
From time to time we run a 'Chestnut Rail Expedition' in collaboration with Sea Darwin Eco Cruises. This tour runs four days before the'Kakadu Bird Week' starts, so could be of special interest to our visitors who plan to visit Kakadu for this special event. 
  

 

Be at the dock at Stokes Hill Wharf to meet the 'Snubfin' at 5:30pm in search of the sought after and elusive Chestnut Rail.  
 
Chestnut Rail feeding on the mudbank in mangrove habitat (photo copyright Ian Morris)
Chestnut Rail feeding on the mudbank in mangrove habitat (photo copyright Ian Morris)
We quietly explore some mangrove-lined creeks deep in Darwin Harbour on the falling tide, when Chestnut Rail come down to feed on the mudbanks. Other mangrove species we may see include Great-billed Heron, Pacific Reef Heron, Striated Heron, Collared Kingfisher, various overwintering shorebirds plus any of the three species of dolphin that are found in the harbour.
 
Torresian (Collared) Kingfisher at East Point (photo copyright Marie Holding)
Torresian (Collared) Kingfisher at East Point (photo copyright Marie Holding)
The cruise finishes at 7.00pm.
 

Please click here to see the report from the May 29, 2015 Chestnut Rail Expedition.

Local birder, John Rawesthorne’s take on the May 29 Chestnut Rail Expedition…

I tagged along on the Chestnut Rail boat tour this morning.  Very easy going and friendly mob, the Sea Darwin crew along with Mike Jarvis – clearly they enjoy what they do. 

Anyway, we pottered about in Sadgroves Ck for an hour or so, seeing nary a Rail, but a nice suite of other birds.  As we headed back to Stokes Hill Wharf through the moored yachts near Dinah Beach, quite literally on the very last square metre of mud we had left to look at (on the mangrove corner opposite Dinah Beach boat ramp, for those more familiar) there was a rail! Walking around out in the open foraging.  Doing rail stuff.  Except the “run away” bit – it didn’t run away, which was nice. 

JR

 

Chestnut Rail Expedition, first light (photo copyright Sea Darwin)
Chestnut Rail Expedition, first light (photo copyright Sea Darwin)

Inclusions: 90 minute Sea Darwin Eco Cruise (1.30pm-3.00pm), use of binoculars, sunscreen and insect repellent if required, iced water. 

5.30pm - 7.00pm  $50/person (group tour)  

Please Note:

  • All tours require a reasonable level of mobility and moderate fitness

  • For protection from the sun and biting insects, light long sleeved shirt and pants are recommended, sturdy shoes and a hat are a must
  • Cancellation and refund policy is in our  Terms and Conditions document
  • All prices are in Australian dollars.

Please click here to check on availability or book a Darwin Birdwatching Experience or email us at enquiries@experiencethewild.com.au

  

 Please Click Here for Other Birdwatching Itineraries