Watarrka Waterhole Wildlife

Unveiling the hidden wildlife within Watarrka National Park

Watarrka National Park, nestled in the heart of Central Australia, is a stunning example of an ecosystem that remains largely untouched by modern development. Known for its dramatic landscapes, ancient rock formations, and serene waterholes, the park is home to a rich variety of wildlife that few ever get the chance to witness.

In Watarrka Waterhole Wildlife, Professor Jenny Davis invites you to explore this remarkable natural sanctuary through a collection of captivating images captured by camera traps. For years, these cameras have documented the diverse animal species that visit four key waterholes, ranging from perennial springs to seasonal streams high on the Watarrka escarpment.

What You’ll Find in the Book

Experience intimate glimpses of Watarrka’s wildlife in action, from animals quenching their thirst to rare species like the black-footed rock wallaby captured on camera. These unique moments, revealed by camera traps, offer a fresh perspective on the park’s hidden life.

Major Mitchell's Cockatoos at Watarrka waterhole
Major Mitchell’s Cockatoos – Discover the beauty and social behavior of these striking pink cockatoos as they gather at Watarrka’s waterholes, a rare and colorful sight captured by the camera traps.
Perentie at Watarrka waterhole
Perentie on the Move – The elusive perentie, Australia’s largest monitor lizard, is rarely seen by visitors. Camera traps reveal its secretive journeys to the waterholes.
Dingo at seep in Watarrka
Dingo at the Seep – A dingo pauses for a drink at a remote seep, highlighting the importance of even the smallest water sources for Watarrka’s top predators.
Aerial view of Watarrka waterhole
A Close Look at Waterhole Ecology – Learn how water sources sustain life in the arid landscape and how various species rely on these oases to survive.

Get Your Copy Today

Watarrka Waterhole Wildlife is available for purchase in both physical and digital formats:

About the Author

Professor Jenny Davis is a freshwater ecologist with decades of experience studying Australia’s rivers, wetlands, and springs. Since 1986, she has been researching the waterholes of Watarrka National Park, expanding her work to include camera traps to monitor the park’s wildlife. With her extensive knowledge and passion for this unique region, Jenny’s work offers an expert’s insight into the unseen dynamics of Watarrka’s ecosystems.

About Watarrka National Park

Watarrka’s waterholes are more than just scenic highlights—they are vital lifelines in an arid environment. The animals that depend on these waterholes include everything from common species to elusive and endangered ones. These precious oases have supported life in the desert for millennia, and Watarrka Waterhole Wildlife brings their hidden stories to life.

Whether you’re a wildlife enthusiast, a lover of Australian landscapes, or simply curious about one of the country’s most remarkable national parks, this book offers a window into the natural beauty and biodiversity of Watarrka.

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