10-18 November 2026
Imagine walking through a beautiful Norfolk Island rainforest, listening to birds calling from the treetops, spotting rare native species and discovering the fascinating wildlife that makes this little island so extraordinary.
From 10-18 November 2026, Norfolk Island Bird Week invites nature enthusiasts to experience the island’s remarkable birdlife through a special programme of guided tours, birdwatching experiences and local presentations.
Led by local bird expert and author of Norfolk Island: The Birds, Margaret Christian, together with Norfolk Island National Parks staff, the week offers a wonderful opportunity to learn more about the island’s unique feathered residents and the conservation efforts helping to protect them.
Whether you’re an experienced birdwatcher, a wildlife photographer or simply someone who enjoys exploring nature, Norfolk Island Bird Week is a wonderful reason to plan an island escape.
Why Norfolk Island Is a Birdwatcher’s Paradise
For such a small island group, Norfolk Island has an extraordinary natural environment.
The Norfolk Island Group is recognised as a globally important biodiversity hotspot and has been designated an Important Bird Area by BirdLife International. Its forests, coastal environments and surrounding waters provide important habitats and breeding grounds for an impressive variety of birdlife.
The group supports breeding populations of several hundred thousand seabirds, including:
- Masked boobies
- Grey ternlets
- White terns
- Sooty terns
- Wedge-tailed shearwaters
Nearby Phillip Island is particularly significant, supporting one of the largest breeding populations of red-tailed tropicbirds in Australia.
On Norfolk Island itself, visitors can discover several remarkable endemic bird species, including the endangered Norfolk Island Green Parakeet, Norfolk Island golden whistler and Norfolk Island scarlet robin.
These birds are part of what makes the island so special. Many are found nowhere else in the world, making a visit an opportunity to discover wildlife that cannot easily be experienced elsewhere.
Meet Norfolk Island’s Unique Native Birds
One of the highlights of exploring Norfolk Island is discovering the birds that call the island home.
Here are a few species worth learning about during Bird Week.
Norfolk Island Green Parakeet
One of the island’s most treasured native birds, the Norfolk Island Green Parakeet is an endemic and endangered species.
Recognisable by its vibrant green plumage and distinctive red crown, this beautiful parakeet is a particularly special sight for visitors exploring the island’s native forests.
Its conservation story is also an important part of Norfolk Island’s natural heritage, highlighting the importance of protecting native habitats and the wildlife that depends on them.
Norfolk Island Golden Whistler
The Norfolk Island golden whistler is another endemic species that makes the island’s birdlife so distinctive.
As its name suggests, this bird is known for its beautiful calls. Listening carefully while exploring the island’s forest environments can make birdwatching an experience that engages more than just the eyes.
Norfolk Island Scarlet Robin
The Norfolk Island scarlet robin is another fascinating endemic bird.
Its distinctive appearance makes it an interesting species for birdwatchers hoping to learn more about the island’s unique wildlife.
Red-tailed Tropicbird
For seabird enthusiasts, the red-tailed tropicbird is a particularly exciting species to discover.
Phillip Island supports one of the largest breeding populations of red-tailed tropicbirds in Australia. Their striking appearance and graceful flight make them a memorable part of the wider Norfolk Island Group’s seabird population.
Experience Norfolk Island Bird Week 2026
Bird Week is more than an opportunity to spot beautiful birds. It’s a chance to learn from people who know the island’s wildlife and natural environment.
Throughout the week, visitors can enjoy a range of guided experiences and presentations designed to showcase Norfolk Island’s remarkable birdlife.
The programme includes:
Norfolk Island Natural Wonders Eco and Bird Tour with Margaret Christian
Discover the island’s natural environment alongside Margaret Christian, local bird expert and author of Norfolk Island: The Birds.
This is a wonderful opportunity to learn from someone with extensive knowledge of Norfolk Island’s birdlife while discovering some of the natural wonders that make the island so unique.
Guided Birding Tour of Norfolk Island’s Rainforest and Seabird Breeding Colonies
Explore the island’s rainforest environments and learn more about the seabirds that use the Norfolk Island Group as important breeding grounds.
With guidance from knowledgeable local experts, these experiences offer a closer look at the habitats, species and natural features that make the island an important destination for bird enthusiasts.
Experience Norfolk Island Birds by Night
Not all birdwatching experiences happen during daylight hours.
The evening bird experience offers a different perspective on Norfolk Island’s birdlife, giving visitors an opportunity to discover more about the island’s nocturnal bird species and their natural environment.
Norfolk Island Birdlife Presentation
For those who enjoy learning about the wildlife they encounter, the programme also includes a presentation dedicated to local Norfolk Island birdlife.
Discover more about the island’s endemic species, seabird populations and the importance of protecting these remarkable natural habitats.
A More Personal Birdwatching Experience
One of the special features of Bird Week is the focus on smaller groups.
Birdwatching sessions will be scheduled and repeated where necessary to ensure there are no more than 15 birdwatchers at any one time.
This approach allows for a more intimate experience, giving participants the opportunity to learn, observe and enjoy the island’s birdlife without large crowds.
Explore Norfolk Island National Park
Beyond the organised Bird Week activities, Norfolk Island National Park is a must-visit for anyone who enjoys nature and the outdoors.
Its beautiful forest environments, towering Norfolk Island pines and network of walking tracks offer visitors a chance to experience the island’s natural surroundings at their own pace.
Take a leisurely walk beneath the trees, listen for native birds and enjoy the peaceful atmosphere of the rainforest.
Whether you’re following a dedicated walking track or simply taking time to appreciate the surroundings, the National Park offers a wonderful introduction to the island’s natural heritage.
For information about walking tracks and exploring the park, visit Parks Australia’s Norfolk Island National Park website.
Make the Most of Your Norfolk Island Nature Escape
If you’re planning to visit for Bird Week, why not make the most of your time on the island?
There are plenty of ways to combine birdwatching with other memorable Norfolk Island experiences.
Explore the island on foot
Discover scenic walking tracks, beautiful forest environments and spectacular coastal views. Take your time and enjoy the island’s natural surroundings.
Discover the coastline
From the beautiful waters of Emily Bay to the dramatic coastal scenery around Anson Bay, Norfolk Island offers plenty of opportunities to enjoy the outdoors.
Bring your camera and binoculars
Birdwatching is even more rewarding when you can observe the finer details. Binoculars are particularly useful for spotting birds in the treetops and observing seabirds from a distance.
Learn from local experts
Take advantage of the guided experiences during Bird Week. Local knowledge can help you understand the island’s birdlife, habitats and conservation stories in greater detail.
Respect the natural environment
Remember to observe wildlife from a respectful distance, remain on designated walking tracks and avoid disturbing birds or their habitats.
Where to Stay During Norfolk Island Bird Week
A nature-filled holiday deserves somewhere comfortable to return to after a day of exploring.
Norfolk Island offers a lovely selection of holiday homes, cottages, villas and apartments, making it easy to find accommodation to suit your travel style.
Whether you’re travelling as a couple, with family or alongside fellow nature enthusiasts, choosing the right accommodation gives you the flexibility to enjoy Bird Week and discover the island at your own pace.
Imagine starting your morning with a relaxed breakfast, heading out to explore the rainforest and discover native birdlife, then returning to your accommodation to unwind after a day of island adventures.
At Norfolk Island Travel Co., we bring together accommodation, local experiences and holiday planning to help you make the most of your visit.
Explore our Norfolk Island accommodation options and find somewhere special to stay while discovering everything this remarkable island has to offer.
Make Norfolk Island Bird Week Part of Your Next Holiday
Norfolk Island is more than a beautiful island escape. It’s home to remarkable wildlife, important natural habitats and bird species that make it a truly special destination.
From the endangered Norfolk Island Green Parakeet to the impressive seabird colonies surrounding the island group, Bird Week offers an opportunity to discover the natural wonders that make Norfolk Island so unique.
With guided experiences led by Margaret Christian and Norfolk Island National Parks staff, small-group birdwatching sessions and opportunities to explore the island’s rainforest and seabird habitats, there’s plenty to inspire a memorable nature holiday.
Join the celebration from 10-18 November 2026 and discover Norfolk Island through the eyes of those who know its birdlife best.
Ready to plan your Norfolk Island escape?
Let Norfolk Island Travel Co. help you find the perfect place to stay and bring your island holiday together.
Contact us to start planning your next island adventure.