This trail is aptly named after the Australian Pelican (Pelicanus conspicillatus), our largest local water bird. The pelican certainly is conspicuous. It is mainly white, with black wingtips and black markings on its tail. It is from 1.6m to 1.9m long, has a wingspan of from 2.5m to 3.4m and a bill of from 40cm to 47cm. The bill has a large, pinkish pouch which turns mostly scarlet during the courtship period. The pelican is able to glide in thermals to a height of 3,000m. Remains of pelicans dating from 30 to 40 million years ago have been found in Australia.
This trail also abounds with flocks of local and migratory birds such as the Australian Black Swan (Cygnus atratus). The Creery Wetlands can be found on the trail and is an important sanctuary and habitat both for resident and for migratory wetland birds. Observing these wetland birds without disturbing them is best carried out on land via the boardwalks and observation points provided for this purpose. The entrance to this land based facility is off Darwin Terrace, Mariners Cove. Please refrain from paddling in the wetlands.
On a calm day, the trail is a wonderful paddle experience, with placid waters complemented by the bushland on the eastern foreshore. From Point Grey south there are many isolated sandy beaches. The western foreshore has some urban development, but still is very appealing. Historically, the inlet and the estuary were crabbing and fishing heaven.
Less than 1 hour
2.2km
Family Friendly
