Last leg of the road trip exploring the Mamu Rainforest Skywalk.

Driving straight past the sign for the rainforest skywalk, I thought, "That sounds interesting; I have plenty of time. Let's take a look." Upon arrival, I met Mary, one of the two officials for the skywalk. We chatted, and I asked her about the birding opportunities. She informed me that peak times had passed and that we were in the hottest part of the day. However, she confidently added that if we stayed still and looked into the foliage, we would see two Double-eyed fig parrots happily feeding. Mary was right and we did so back to the van I went and gathered my equipment loaded my day pack and in I went.

Mamu Rainforest Skywalk offers a unique way to experience one of Australia's most diverse ecosystems. Suspended high above the forest floor, this elevated walkway reveals a world often hidden from view. Standing on a viewing cantilever platform 37 meters above the ground places you well above the rainforest canopy, offering an impressive 360-degree view all the way to the Johnstone River Gorge. Not for the faint hearted. The platform is designed to sway and move being in a region that does have cyclones on that the clearing for the skywalk was created by Cyclone Larry in 2006. Great place to visit and explore.

This sign to me was a stand out of this excursion not truer words be said.

Discovering the Double-eyed Fig Parrot

One of the most captivating residents of the Mamu Rainforest is the double-eyed fig parrot. This small, brightly colored bird is named for the distinctive blue patches that resemble eyes on its head. These parrots are elusive and often blend into the dense foliage, making the skywalk an ideal vantage point for spotting them.

• Appearance: The double-eyed fig parrot displays a striking combination of green, red, and blue feathers. Its compact size and vivid colors make it a jewel of the rainforest.

• Habitat: These parrots prefer dense rainforest areas where fig trees are abundant. The Mamu Rainforest provides an ideal environment with its rich variety of native fig species.

• Behavior: They feed mainly on figs and other fruits, often seen darting quickly between branches. Their shy nature means they are rarely spotted from the ground.

  
  

There are many different species of butterflies to observe, such as the Ulysses with its radiant blues, but getting one to stay still is a different challenge as they flutter here, there, and everywhere.

While exploring the trail, I encountered the Zodiac moth, which caught my attention due to its ability to remain still and cling tightly to the leaves.

I set up the tripod and camera, capturing some great images. During this time, a Norwegian family approached, and I introduced the two daughters to the moth. Their emotions were indescribable as they joyfully admired the moth's size and colour.

The Zodiac Moth and Its Unique Features

Another remarkable inhabitant of the Mamu Rainforest is the zodiac moth. This moth stands out due to its unusual wing patterns that resemble zodiac symbols, which is how it earned its name. It is a fascinating example of the rainforest’s biodiversity.

• Appearance: The zodiac moth has intricate markings on its wings that look like celestial symbols. Its colors range from earthy browns to subtle yellows, helping it camouflage against tree bark.

• Life Cycle: Like many moths, it undergoes complete metamorphosis, from egg to caterpillar, pupa, and adult. The caterpillars feed on specific host plants found in the rainforest.

• Ecological Role: The zodiac moth plays a role in pollination and serves as a food source for birds and other predators, maintaining the balance of the ecosystem.