Migratory Wader Congregation, Bool Lagoon

Bool Lagoon receives significant numbers of migratory waders — shorebirds — each spring and summer, fresh from breeding grounds in Siberia and Alaska. The sight of hundreds of small shorebirds probing the mudflats in tight flocks, their journeys spanning thousands of kilometres, is a compelling one even for non-birders. Species regularly present include sharp-tailed sandpipers, red-necked stints, curlew sandpipers, and occasional rarities that attract birders from across SA. The reserve's hides allow extended observation without disturbance. This is a key site on the East Asian-Australasian Flyway and one of inland SA's most important shorebird habitats.

Bool Lagoon Game Reserve, 37 km south of Naracoorte via Bool Lagoon Rd. Sealed to the reserve boundary, then gravel to the main car park and hides. Free entry. Network of elevated hides and boardwalks. The southern lagoons and Hacks Lagoon are most productive for migratory waders. Use the established hides to avoid flushing birds off the mudflats. A spotting scope is more useful here than binoculars alone. Early morning visits produce the best sightings.