Dawn on Yellow Waters Billabong

In the swirling mists over the billabong, the sun rises regally to the sound of brolgas chanting in the melaleuca wetlands.







We have been on this cruise before, each time is a varied pleasure of everything nature offers here.

As we head from the billabong into South Alligator River, we encounter Maxi, a huge 4.5 metre saltie cruising his bevy of females to the edge of his territory where eager suitors lurk respectfully.

Huge numbers of white plumed whistling ducks swirl nervously around us as a hungry white bellied sea eagle eyes breakfast.

We spend hours watching lots of salties, including one with jaws open in the sun. 

The boat glides past kingfishers, finches, snakebirds and other bird species waking up. 

A truly massive buffalo bull wading with an egret on his back, sticks his tongue out and flares his nostrils.

Powderpuff jacana chicks scurry on leaves under the brightly coloured lotus lilies.