Bird Feeding:
- Bird feeding area open daily from 11:00am - 3:00pm
- Tickets: $4.00 per tray (suits 2 people)
Wild bird feeding began at O’Reilly’s back in the 1930’s when Bernard O’Reilly was rehabilitating an injured Crimson Rosella. On release, the bird returned daily for supplementary feeding. He couldn’t keep a secret and invited all his friends! Soon visitors to Lamington National Park were also ‘flocking’ to enjoy the experience.
Since this time visitor numbers and the quantity of feed being offered has increased dramatically. Whilst there are some concerns over feeding wildlife, we believe the chance to connect with wildlife, when well managed can ensure visitors leave being mindful of Australia’s native birds, the precious environment in which we all live, and how we might contribute to improving the experience for wildlife when returning home.
In November 2008, a new bird feeding program was introduced to protect both the birdlife and the feeders. The program includes set feeding times from 11:00am – 3:00pm daily and new feeding trays that mean no more nasty scratches from bird claws!
As well as the new program, O’Reilly’s have supported Michelle Plant, a PHD Research Project via University of Queensland and are working with researchers to establish a best practice model for feeding wild birds that will show the way for bird feeding in backyards across Australia. Research results will be submitted for international publication and a book prepared as a guide for backyard feeders.
People feeding wild birds in South East Queensland who are interested in participating in the study by trialing recommended practices are invited to register their interest at wildlife@ozwide.net.au.
Learn more about what you can do at home by visiting the Department of Environment and Resource Management's 'Living with Wildlife' page.
So, next time you’re on the mountain, just head to the Giftshop to purchase your ticket for access to the bird feeding area. Tickets cost $4.00 per tray, which are suitable for up to 2 people.
For more information on the changes, download our bird feeding brochure.
