Gluepot Nature Reserve
The 51,300 hectares Gluepot Reserve, located near Waikerie in the semi-arid South Australian mallee, is considered by many to be one of Australia's most impressive reserves.
One of only 12 UNESCO Biosphere Reserves in Australia, the 50,000-hectare area of virgin mallee scrub contains no less than six nationally endangered bird species and a unique flora and fauna adapted to the harsh conditions.
The Gluepot Reserve Environmental Education Centre is run entirely by volunteers and presents regular courses in its converted shearing shed, including ‘Painting Nature', ‘An Introduction to Birds and Bird Watching' and ‘Discovering the Vegetation & Habitat The Mallee Provides'. www.riverland.net.au/gluepot
Wildlife highlights: 181 birds species have been recorded, including the largest remaining population of the endangered Black-eared Miner, one of Australia's rarest birds. Other nationally significant species breeding on the Reserve are the Malleefowl, the Red-lored Whistler and the Regent Parrot.
Western Grey and Red Kangaroos, Mallee Ningaui, (only discovered in the 1970's), Short-beaked Echidna and the Western Pygmy-possum, and 11 species of bats have been recorded.
There are plenty of snakes, lizards and goannas, and more than 50 species of ant
Location: Gluepot Reserve is located 1.5 hrs drive on well-maintained dirt roads north of Waikerie, South Australia. The Reserve is open to visitors year-round.
Facilities: There is a visitor information centre, campgrounds, birdhides, driving and walking tracks, and brochures. Guided tours are also available.
Entry fees: Per vehicle: Aus$5 per day, or Aus$10 to camp.
Warning & Accommodation
You should note that when visiting Gluepot you need to be fully self sufficient. You need to bring your own food, water and fuel and take your rubbish with you when you depart. Concern about fires in the mallee means that open fires are forbidden on Gluepot and only gas fired appliances are permitted. Toilets and picnic tables are provided at the three campsites that are suitable for caravans, tents and tour group buses. There is presently no mobile phone coverage at Gluepot. Please note that firearms and pets are not permitted on the Reserve.
These maps are intended as a guideline only; you must check the exact location of the reserve yourself. Wildlife Extra assumes no responsibility for the accuracy or usefulness of the information on this website.
Read the comments about this article and leave your own comment