Yellow Water billabong
Kakadu National Park, NT
THE ABUNDANCE OF wildlife at Yel low Water can be overwhelming. Known also by its Aboriginal name, Ngurrungurrudjba, it’s part of the South Alligator River floodplain located within the stunning Kakadu National Park, and is a tropical paradise with an extraordinarily diverse assemblage of birds, f ish, insects and reptiles. Although not evident in this photograph, the water here is often covered with stunning water lilies of purple, white and pink, providing shelter to aquatic creatures such as turtles and f ile snakes.
Being on the water – in a boat, of course – provides expansive views of this remarkable wild place and offers the best photo opportunities. For a birder, Yellow Water never ceases to surprise and delight. More than a third of all bird species in Australia can be seen in Kakadu and most of those appear on and around Yellow Water, from the white-bellied sea-eagle to f locks of plumed whistling ducks, such as those seen here.
This is, of course, the domain of saltwater crocodiles. Totally unafraid, they cruise the water here with slow, rhythmic swagger, aware of their power and inf luence at the top of the food chain. Crocodiles can keep watch from both above and below the water, have a curious disposition and are uniquely equipped to command on land as well as in the water.
They seem always aware and alert of their surroundings. For us, however, watching from a smallish boat can sometimes be an uneasy pastime. We have found crocodiles following us, coming towards us and crossing in front of us. They can be unpredictable and dangerous – but so interesting!
This photo shows how crocodiles can exert their power. The ducks lined up behind the reptile here are patiently waiting to enter the water. They’re birds that like to paddle in the shallow edges to feed and are reluctant swimmers. But the crocodile is creating a sizeable obstruction. It is doing nothing – no threats, no aggression – but the ducks are well aware the water is off limits until the croc decides to re-enter the water… and that may take a while.
The web of life at Yellow Water is complex. The interwoven lives of the creatures that live there, and the diverse environment they inhabit, means every interaction can be a unique experience for us to savour. This is the magic of Yellow Water – an ever-changing, endlessly interesting place of great beauty, full of amazing creatures.
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