Birdwatching
Norfolk Island is home to a fascinating mixture of land, water and seabirds. The island's isolation means that although Norfolk has relatively few land and forest bird species, a high proportion of these birds are found nowhere else in the world.
Over 20 species of seabirds can be readily seen from the coastal areas of Norfolk Island. The smaller islands of Nepean and Phillip and the smaller islets off the Norfolk coastline are important breeding habitats for most of Norfolk Island's seabirds. Download our bird guide for more information.
Birds of special interest
Green parrot Cyanoramphus cookii
The green parrot is the symbol of Norfolk Island National Park and a conservation success story. Thanks to an assisted breeding program, this iconic bird is recovering from near extinction. Listen for their characteristic 'kek-kek-kek' call and keep your eyes out for this parrot's bright green feathers, red crown-patch and blue-edged wings.
Sacred kingfisher Todiramphus sanctus norfolkiensis
With their blue-grey wings, green back and golden breast, these kingfishers can often be seen perching on branches and posts. The local name for these charismatic birds is 'nuffka', literally meaning Norfolker. From September to December they form burrows for nesting by flying full speed into the ground to loosen dirt before finishing the job with their claws and beak.
White-capped noddy Anous minutus
Also known as black noddies, you can recognise these birds by their black-brown feathers and distinctive white patch on the top of their heads. During summer, many of the tall trees become home to large numbers of whitecapped noddies. They are known locally as 'titeracks' - a sound similar to an adult bird's call.
Photo: Quinton Marais
Grey fantail Rhipidura fuliginosa pelzelni
These small, inquisitive birds are grey and brown with white markings, and never seem to stay still, flitting their fan-like tail as they move. They are not shy and may follow you along the walking tracks, singing in a vigorous chatter. Grey fantails live in forests and gardens across the island.
White tern Gygis alba
These graceful birds are snow-white except for their black bills, feet and eyes. Often flying in pairs, they are a symbol of Norfolk Island's summer sky. Fairy terns (as they are referred to locally) normally leave the island in May to spend several months at sea, flying constantly before returning in mid-August to mate.
Red-tailed tropicbirds Phaethon rubricauda
Wide tropical and sub-tropical distribution. Possibly 1400 breeding pairs on Christmas Island. Nest under bushes beside sea and in holes in first inland cliff. Commonly seen displaying in groups of two to twenty above Settlement. Good viewing spots at the cutting near the George Fam Centre and in front of the Rumah Tinggi Tavern, especially in the middle of the day, when adults partake in showy display flights.
The adult White-tailed Tropicbird is a slender, mainly white bird, 71-80 cm long including the very long central tail feathers, which double its total length.
