Fivebough and Tuckerbil Wetlands facts for kids

Panorama from Wetlands Walk at Fivebough Wetlands, which is still underwater after the wet Winter and Spring in 2016

The Fivebough and Tuckerbil Wetlands are two special wetlands in New South Wales, Australia. They are located near the town of Leeton. These wetlands are protected areas, managed to help nature and for people to enjoy.

On October 21, 2002, these wetlands became a "Wetland of International Importance." This means they are recognized under the Ramsar Convention, an international agreement to protect important wetlands around the world.

What are the Fivebough and Tuckerbil Wetlands?

Fivebough Wetlands (34°31′50″S 146°25′55″E / 34.53056°S 146.43194°E / -34.53056; 146.43194) is about 4 km north-east of Leeton. It covers an area of 400 hectares. This wetland has water that changes with the seasons. It can be fresh or slightly salty. Some parts of it always have water.

Tuckerbil Wetlands (34°29′05″S 146°20′55″E / 34.48472°S 146.34861°E / -34.48472; 146.34861) is about 10 km north-west of Leeton. It is a bit smaller, at 289 hectares. Like Fivebough, its water levels change with the seasons. The water here is usually a bit salty.

How These Wetlands Became Important

People started noticing how special Fivebough and Tuckerbil Wetlands were a long time ago. In 1920, a bird expert named Samuel Albert White suggested that Fivebough Swamp should be a protected area. Another naturalist, Keith Collingwood McKeown, also recorded many birds here.

Later, in the 1970s and 1990s, these wetlands became famous for birdwatching. Many people came to see the different types of birds.

From 1994 to 1997, a big survey was done. It showed that these wetlands were very important for waterbirds. They had many different kinds of birds, large groups of birds, and even birds that are in danger of disappearing. Because of this, the wetlands qualified to be recognized internationally.

In 2000, a group called the Fivebough and Tuckerbil Wetlands Management Trust was formed. This group worked with the local community to get the wetlands officially recognized. On May 29, 2002, they submitted a plan to protect and manage the wetlands. This plan aimed to help waterbirds, teach people about nature, and encourage eco-tourism. It also respected the cultural importance of the wetlands to the local Wiradjuri people.

Why These Wetlands Are So Special (Ramsar)

These wetlands are important around the world because of their amazing birds. They are home to many waterbirds, including birds that travel long distances (migratory waders). They also provide a safe place for birds that are in danger.

Fivebough and Tuckerbil Wetlands act as a refuge for birds in an area that is mostly farmland. Even some human activities, like farming and managing water, have helped create good habitats for the birds here.

Amazing Birds of the Wetlands

BirdLife International has named part of these wetlands an "Important Bird Area." This means it's a very important place for birds.

Some of the special birds found here include:

• The endangered Australasian bittern. This bird is very rare.
• Large numbers of glossy ibis and sharp-tailed sandpiper. More than 1% of the world's population of these birds can be found here!
• The Australian painted snipe.
• Brolgas, which often gather in large groups at Tuckerbil.