A protected habitat for a stunning variety of wildlife

An amazing array of animal life can be discovered throughout the year. Here you soon sense that you are very much a guest of the natural environment; you're here to be part of it, to enjoy it and to learn from it.


Heron Island is a significant nesting location for two vulnerable turtle species, the Green Turtle (Chelonia mydas) and Loggerhead Turtle (Caretta caretta). Strict guidelines are in place for the viewing of nesting and hatching turtles.

Through all but a few months, Heron Island is a breeding and nesting sanctuary for a variety of birds, primarily the Black Noddy Terns (Anous minutus) and the Wedgetailed Shearwaters (Puffinus pacificus). Bird nesting holes are protected with covering boards as the nests are often found in the middle of a trail or path.

Please refer also to the Heron Island Nature Diary for a full overview of Heron Island birds and wildlife seasons.

Join us for Turtle Talks with Tim from the Research Centre every Monday, Wednesday and Saturday at 8:00 pm. These talks are free of charge and will be held either in the Wistari Room or the Information Centre.

Click to download the Heron Island Turtle Watching Guidelines (PDF).