After an overnight stay at the Cooinda Lodge, some 50 odd km to the south of Jabiru in the Kakadu National Park, we were up early for our sunrise cruise of Yellow Waters. What an experience that was. A true highlight for our ever too short Kakadu stay. We feel now that we have seen the core of the real Kakadu, a place of abundant water, amazing plant and bird life, complemented by the ubiquitous presence of the alpha predator the saltwater crocodile.

The images that follow are from this morning’s cruise on Yellow Waters, being just a short drive from the Cooinda Lodge.

The early morning light, looking across the flood plain.

Then there was light!

So calm on this river but danger lurks everywhere.

These lotus lilies are in short supply in Kakadu but we were privileged to see them this morning, in large bunches. Somewhere there on the left is a very discreet female crocodile, just starting to awaken from the night’s slumber. As we approached, she very coyly submerged to observe us from below. Apparently crocodiles can stay underwater for up to two hours without a further breath.

Plenty of these ducks on board this morning.

The birds on Yellow Waters. Starting with the mighty Jabiru, including the second image of a mating pair, after one has returned with some tucker.

Hanging out to dry. After completing its spear fishing, it needs to dry its wing as they lack the natural oil of the cormorant, for example.

Blue kingfisher. Small but delightful.

The wetlands early morning with many birds, and crocodiles lurking in the vicinity, as further images reveal.

Then there were the saltwater crocodiles. This is serious Mum.

Maguk Falls and the adjacent scenery.

 

And the last view of the day. Almost out of Kakadu at the southern end. Will update the name of this lookout when I find it.