There’s more to Moreton Bay than beautiful beaches and ocean views.
It’s one of Queensland’s most diverse wildlife habitats – from dugongs grazing in underwater meadows to the birds, bats and bush creatures along the shore, the region provides plenty of opportunities to experience nature up close.
Local marine biologist Melanie Meatheringham said she moved to the region because of the rich marine environment.
“We chose Moreton Bay because we love the ocean and the variety of wildlife,” Melanie said.
“Every day there’s something new. I especially love those moments when a turtle or pod of dolphins pop up while I’m enjoying a coffee at the beach.
“One of my favourite memories was when I was beside the water at Clontarf, telling someone I still hadn’t seen a dugong when one appeared with its calf right beside us!”
Magical Marine Life
Dugongs, the gentle sea cows Melanie spotted, sit at the heart of Moreton Bay’s ecosystem. These slow-moving mammals graze on seagrass meadows, and with an estimated 600–800 in the Moreton Bay Marine Park, the bay is one of the few places in the world to see them in the wild.
Humpback whales pass by during winter and spring migrations, and dolphins and turtles – including hawksbill, loggerhead and green turtles – can be spotted year-round.
Redcliffe Pier and Scarborough are good local viewing spots, or hop on a whale-watching or marine-discovery cruise from Redcliffe, Newport or Moreton Island (Mulgumpin) for a closer look.
Life Along the Shore
The bay’s wonders go beyond the waterline. Mangroves and wetlands at Hays Inlet, Scarborough and Deception Bay are home to mud crabs, frogs and wading birds. More than 360 bird species have been recorded across the Peninsula, from pelicans and herons to kingfishers and honeyeaters.
For a different spectacle, visit Redcliffe Botanic Gardens to watch thousands of bats take flight. Arrive about 30 minutes before dusk or dawn for the best view.
Explore and Enjoy
Whether you’re walking the foreshore, paddling at Suttons Beach or relaxing on the sand, keep your eyes open for wildlife encounters. Every season brings something new to see.
Bring binoculars, tread gently, and take your time – you might be surprised by what wildlife you notice when you really pay attention.
Find out more about our local wildlife here.
Read more stories from The North Lakes Guide print magazine here:
- In the North Lakes Loop: Updates from the Community
- Eco Eve: Living a More Environmentally Friendly Life!
- What’s Hot Around Town
- Podcast Review: Wanging On Pocast
- Chasing Comet (aka Griffins Last Stand)
- Professional Surfing Returns for Biggest Gold Coast Open Yet
- Organic Gardening in February
- Tilapia in South East Queensland – A Great Target for Kids
- The Lakes College Scores Third Consecutive NAPLAN Hat Trick
- Helping Your Kids Transition Into High School
- Music in the Park Event Heads To Warner
- Brendale VIEW Community and Educational Focus In 2026
- Escape to Nature at Bunyaville Conservation Park
- Proudly Celebrating International Day of Women and Girls in Science
- Turkey and Cranberry Burgers
- Act 1 Theatre Opens New Season with Dark Thriller
- Grants to Help Moreton Bay Communities Thrive
- Moreton Bay Expo Returns
- Deception Bay’s Early Influencer
- Reimagine Your Neighbourhood with Artist Phoebe Paradise
- Caboolture Community Choir Calls for New Director
- A New Method For Open Mics in Brendale
