Fragile Ecosystem
Kakadu National Park by Seth Trenter
Introduction
Kakadu National Park is a protected area in the Northern Territory of Australia,171 km southeast of Darwin
Kakadu National Park is located within the Alligator Rivers Region of the Northern Territory of Australia. It covers an area of 19,804 km2 (7,646 sq mi), extending nearly 200 kilometres from north to south and over 100 kilometres from east to west.The Ranger Uranium Mine, one of the most productive uranium mine in the world, is surrounded by separation from the park.
Where is kakadu national park?
Fauna
Red Goshawk-The red goshawk is considered the rarest bird of prey mainly found in Australian woodlands areas.
Speartooth shark-The Speartooth shark is an extremely rare species of river shark mainly found in large tropical rivers in Australia and Papua New Guinea
Gouldian finch-Gouldian finches are considered a beautiful grassfinch found in NT,WA and some in QLD
Flora
There are over 2000 species of plants found in Kakadu National park.
Freshwater Mangrove-A small, spreading tree that grows on the banks of freshwater creeks, rivers and swamps. It develops hanging, bright-red flowers between September and December. It is also known as the 'itchy tree': small caterpillars feed on the leaves during the wet season and cause localised skin irritation if touched.
Tropical Banksia-the only Banksia found in the Top End. It has distinctive serrated leaves and the characteristic banksia flower, which appears between January and April.
Green Plum- a medium-sized tree with large, thick leathery leaves. Bunches of green grape-sized plums appear in October to December; they are considered to be some of the best bush tucker around.
Tourism
Kakadu national park is a wonderful place to visit.The best things to do are visit the Nourlangie and the Ubirr rock art.Cruise the Yellow Water Billabong and spot birds, animals and big crocodiles.Take to the air in a light aircraft during the Tropical Summer (November – March) for a breathtaking view of Kakadu’s majestic Twin and Jim Jim waterfalls.Head to Gunlom Falls at the southern end of the park where it feels like you’re standing on the edge of the world.Take a cultural cruise on the East Alligator River.Bird watch at Mardugal Billabong or try the Mardugal Billabong Walk.Call in to the Bowali Visitor Centre for the latest information on Kakadu.
Threats and Dangers
What threatens Kakadu? The ranger uranium mine,Cane toads,Global warming.Radioactive spills,Random housing throughout the park,