Bird watchers from near and far flock to Toorbul Bird Roost for bird watching Moreton Bay, due to the assortment of species of birds found in the one great location. Migratory regulars include Bar-tailed and Black-tailed Godwits, Eastern Curlew, Whimbrel, Sharp-tailed Sandpiper, Grey-tailed Tattler, Red-necked Stint, Great Knot. Less common species such as Broad-billed Sandpiper, Sanderling, Pectoral Sandpiper and others have been recorded.
There are many more species regularly sighted at Toorbul Bird Roost. For more information be sure to print out the challenge and identification chart here.
It is advisable to visit these sites on a high tide of 2 m or less, as higher tides force the waders onto less accessible roost sites elsewhere in the passage. The Toorbul shorebird roost comprises several separate roosts, all-visible from the Esplanade, that regularly attract as large a selection of species as anywhere in the Pumicestone passage. The roost at the extreme southern end, which has recently been enhanced, has an information board nearby. Adjacent mudflats also provide a good selection of shorebirds.
The township of Toorbul is situated about 63 km north of Brisbane and is reached via the Bruce Highway. About 49 km from Brisbane, take the Toorbul/Donnybrook exit, drive across the bridge over the highway and head east. Continue along this road for 14 km until reaching a T-junction. At this intersection, turn left and in a short distance there is another T-junction, which is the intersection with The Esplanade. Be vigilant when driving along The Esplanade, as relatively tame kangaroos frequent the grassed areas by the side of the road and may stray into your path.
Picnic and barbeque facilities are located at several places along The Esplanade. All roost sites are easily accessible for disabled people. Caravan and camping sites are available in the council caravan park located off The Esplanade, where bookings can be made.
Toorbul Bird Roost is located near the iconic Bribie Bridge making it a perfect first destination of your Bribie Island road trip. Discover the natural beauty of the Bribie National Park or enjoy a day getting some sun at the many surf beaches nearby. There are a great variety of shopping and food choices along your drive as well local supermarkets to stock up a picnic basket for your journey.
If you love bird watching, check out these other great bird watching spots around the Moreton Bay Region:
Along the banks of the Caboolture River, the North Harbour Heritage Park is an exciting addition to the North Harbour masterplan to retain and preserve the archaeological remains of the “Moray Fields” settlement.
Enjoy a family day in the sun at the North Harbour Mountain Bike Trail finishing with a family picnic at the set off point near the carpark!
Cycling or walking between Caboolture and Wamuran is about to get a whole lot easier. The new, Caboolture to Wamuran Rail Trail has just opened its first stage and it is looking amazing.
Nestled in the upper reaches of the Caboolture River, Rocksberg Park Heritage Reserve has long been a local hotspot for family picnics and a quick paddle.
Red Beach is 8km of doggie heaven, designed to let your pooch run, swim and play off-leash to their hearts content. Nestled somewhere between the surf side of Woorim Beach and the calm waters of Bongaree, Red Beach is the number one Bribie Island dog beach.