Bushfire in Kakadu

Bushfires are part of the annual cycles in Kakadu. In the dry woodlands and grasslands, controlled burns are carried out in the early dry season to stimulate new plant growth and protect the habitats from more destructive fires. This prescribed burning follows the pattern set by the traditional people of the land who are still consulted regarding annual burns.

As the fire moves through the forest, insects and reptiles are flushed out from the undergrowth, providing a welcome source of protein to Black Kites, Whistling Kites, and Brown Goshawks. Straw-necked Ibis can be seen walking around in the wake of the fire, just far enough away not to burn their feet, as they take advantage of any char-grilled morsels left behind.