Added: 10/28/2006 |
Nature Abounds in LakefieldLocated on the Cape York Peninsula, is Lakefield, a national park in Cape York since 1979. There are also camping areas along these bodies of water for your overnight stay. Some endangered animals and birds call this national park in Cape York home. You are encouraged to do your bird watching in the early mornings or late evening hours. Always have your camera ready, however, for photos of the birds, or taking pictures of the beautiful colored lilies that grow in this area.
Camping areas
There are also camping areas along these bodies of water for your overnight stay. Some of the camping areas have showers available, while others have just the toilets. Camping is an extra fee and you will need permits. For those not wishing to camp in the wilderness, there are other accommodations available at Laura, and the Musgrave Roadhouse.
Some endangered species
Some endangered animals and birds call this national park in Cape York home. Endangered animals include the Lakeland downs mouse, and the spectacled hare-wallaby. Endangered birds in Lakefield include the golden-shouldered parrot, star finch, and red goshawk. Speartooth sharks are extremely rare, and can also be found in Lakefield National Park. If you do catch any shark while fishing, you are advised to put it back in the water.
Other animals that roam the grasslands and wooded areas are the wallabies found grazing and sleeping throughout the day. The northern nail tail Wallaby is around, but is a little more bashful. You will also find birds such as bustards wondering around alone or with their families.
Bird watching
Birds are in abundant supply at Lakefield. You are encouraged to do your bird watching in the early mornings or late evening hours. That is when the birds are at their best. Because some of the park is restricted, access may be limited in some areas to watch the birds. In these cases, you may want to take your binoculars with you. However, always have your camera ready for photos of the birds, or taking pictures of the beautiful colored lilies that grow in this area.
Words to the wise
Snakes and crocodiles also inhabit this park, so there is a need for a few words of wisdom. When exploring this national park in Cape York, you need to dress for the occasion. Wear long pants and covered shoes. If you are camping, use mosquito nets and keep your tents zipped shut at all times. During the wet season, between the months of September through May, jellyfish may be found in Lakefield. Therefore, swimming is not allowed.
Sharing the park with crocodiles requires some rules, as well.
* Warnings about crocodiles are posted for a reason. Abide by them.
* No swimming allowed, period.
* Stand back from the edge of the water hole, even when fishing. In addition, do not clean fish or leave the scraps near the water.
* Do not provoke or try to feed crocodiles. Even the small ones are more powerful than humans.
* Camp in the designated camping areas, and take your trash with you. Do not camp near the water.
If you use common sense while visiting or camping here, you will do fine.
Bring the right equipment
Your vehicle needs to be in good working order before entering Lakefield. There are no stations available, so if you need to, bring some extra parts that you think you may need. You are also required to bring your own food and water supply, fuel, garbage bags, insect repellent, and mosquito nets. Please leave your pets at home, as they are not allowed in the park. At least of the reasons should be very obvious. Let someone know your plans in case you should have car trouble. That way, someone will be able to report you to the park officials if need be.
Your stay will be a happy adventure, if you use common sense. There is much to be experienced in Lakefield, so come with an attitude of adventure. You will not be disappointed. Finally yet importantly, do not forget your camera.
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