Birdwatching Tourism Booms even as Australia’s Birds are Under Threat from Plastic Pollution

A recent report by ABC News highlights the growing importance of birdwatching to Australia’s tourism industry. In 2023 alone, international visitors spent an estimated $2.6 billion on travel experiences involving birdwatching, while domestic travellers contributed a further $636 million, more than 50% more than in 2021. 

This surge isn’t surprising. Australia is a globally renowned birdwatching destination, home to the second-highest number of endemic bird species in the world, second only to Indonesia. From the vivid plumage of the Gouldian Finch to the haunting call of the Eastern Whipbird, these uniquely Australian species draw passionate birdwatchers, or “twitchers,” from all over the world. 

But as birdwatching tourism continues to grow, it’s important to recognise that many of Australia’s native birds are facing increasing challenges to their survival. 

Plastic Threatens Australian Birdlife 

Many bird species face a combination of pressures including habitat destruction, invasive predators, climate change, and pollution. One of the most disturbing threats comes from plastic waste. 

Seabirds such as the Albatross and Shearwater are particularly vulnerable. These birds often mistake floating plastic for food, which can cause deadly blockages in their digestive systems. But recent research has revealed an even more insidious problem: plasticosis. 

First reported by the Audubon Society, plasticosis is a condition that causes severe internal damage when birds ingest plastic fragments. In a population of Flesh-footed Shearwaters on Lord Howe Island, scientists found that around 90% of birds had plastic in their guts. This is despite the island’s remote location, far from urban plastic waste sources and surrounded by protected marine environments. 

Plasticosis doesn’t kill the birds directly; instead it negatively affects their growth, nutrition and general health. Pieces of plastic aren’t just stuck in the birds’ stomachs, they’re slicing, scarring, and reshaping them. This internal damage leads to reduced appetite, nutritional deficiency, and impaired digestion. Parents can carry less fish back to their chicks on shore. The stomachs of affected birds produce less acid, which impacts food breakdown and makes them more vulnerable to parasites.   

Shorebirds at Risk Too 

The Eastern Curlew, the largest migratory shorebird in the world, is another species that is feeling the impact of plastic pollution. These long-billed waders rely on Australia’s coastal mudflats to rest and refuel during their epic migrations from Russia and China. But coastal development and pollution, especially oil and plastic contamination, are degrading these vital feeding grounds and impacting the birds’ population numbers.  

Birdwatching as a Force for Good 

Birdwatching tourism isn’t just good for the economy. It can be a powerful conservation ally. Enthusiasts often become vocal advocates for habitat protection and wildlife health. With the right support, tourism operators, local communities, and governments can work together to ensure that Australia’s birds aren’t just seen but safeguarded. 

So next time you see a bird, take a moment to think about what you can do to protect it. Everyone can unleash the power of three to help protect our precious environment. 

Take 3 pieces of rubbish with you when you leave the beach, waterway… or anywhere  

• Take 3 actions to reduce your plastic footprint 

• Take 3 people on the journey with you