Darwin

We stayed at the Lee Point Caravan Park which was lovely except for the irritation of sandflies. There were two nice pools ideal for cooling off and relaxing as we were beginning to feel the heat. After settling into the park we had a good look around Darwin walking around the town area and the parkland overlooking the harbour. An evening meal of Barramundi and chips near the wharf was wonderful, especially as we witnessed the glowing red sun setting over the ocean.

There were plenty of warnings about the dangers of swimming, walking or playing in or near the water around the Darwin and Northern Territory Top End. We heeded these warnings without question, not wanting to become part of a hungry crocodiles menu.

Crocodile Farm

At last we were able to see some crocodiles. A very exiting and facinating day for the family. These fresh and salt water crocodiles were bred for their meat and leather at the farm . Some of the large crocodiles were used for breeding. Without doubt, it was a dangerous job to harvest the eggs from the female crocodiles nest each year. Many of the large animals were taken from rivers and creeks that were too close to peoples homes. Or perhaps the crocodile was considered dangerous because it had attacked stock or people who had ventured too close. The farm even had a rare albino crocodile on display in a sturdy enclosure.. The feeding time was an event full of jaw snapping action. We watched the crocodiles being fed freshly killed chickens and had earlier watched an unsuspecting bird being attacked and eaten by an opportunistic saltwater crocodile.

Children in water at Berry Springs NT.

Berry Springs

Just outside of Darwin was Berry Springs. It was a small National Park having thermal springs to swim in. The swimming areas are fed by Berry Creek and a number of natural springs. The clear rainforest fringed pools abound with small native fish which made it a perfect place to relax. We were pleased to note that the children had aquired a keen eye for crocodile warning signs...a good sense of self preservation had been installed in them.

Territory Wildlife Park

In this wonderful place our seven hour visit consisted of exploring many exhibits of native aninmals in a natural bushland environment. Our favourite was the birds of prey display whereby the birds were seen free flying and demonstrating natural hunting behaviours with the encouragement of the Ranger. On entering the birds of prey display an example of a huge Wedge tailed eagles nest and a couple of eggs could be witnessed. The eagles pair for life and regularly patrol their territory in search of prey such as rabbits, birds and reptiles. Over the years a pair may build and renovate several huge stick nests, lining them with tree leaves. Raymond especially was keen on learning more about these animals.

Owl at the Territory Wildlife Park Darwin.