Hasties Swamp National Park

Hasties Swamp National Park is located in Queensland, Australia, in the Atherton Tablelands region, about 4 kilometers southeast of the town of Atherton. The park is situated in Far North Queensland, with nearby towns including Yungaburra, Herberton, and Malanda, all within easy driving distance. Cairns, a larger city, is about 90 kilometers to the northeast. Hasties Swamp was established as a national park in 1980 to protect its important wetland ecosystem, which serves as a critical habitat for numerous bird species. Historically, the area has been recognized for its rich biodiversity and has been a focal point for conservation efforts in the region. The park offers basic parking facilities with one designated parking area near the bird hide, a popular feature of the park. There are no parking fees, and while the lot can accommodate a modest number of vehicles, it's best to arrive early during peak birdwatching seasons. Wildlife in Hasties Swamp is primarily avian, with over 220 species of birds recorded, making it a birdwatcher's paradise. Notable species include the sarus crane, magpie goose, and the plumed whistling duck. The wetland is also home to frogs, small mammals, and various reptiles. Flora in the park consists mainly of wetland plants like sedges, reeds, and grasses, as well as surrounding eucalypt woodlands and melaleuca trees. A notable feature within Hasties Swamp is the two-story bird hide, which provides excellent viewing opportunities. Public transport to the park is limited, so visitors typically rely on private vehicles. There are occasional guided tours from nearby towns, but no regular bus service is available. Photo Credit: Allan Hopkins