Are you looking for a nearby river or lake around Sydney’s North Shore where you might find some ducks? There are lots, you just need to know best spots to go! Of course, we we can’t guarantee you’ll find them in these locations all the time (as they’re animals, and they may move!)… but you’re in with a good chance.
Can you feed ducks?
Although duck feeding is fun for children, duck feeding prohibited in all National Parks in Sydney.
If you want to bring them some food in the spots that allow it, do not feed them bread as it’s the equivalent of junk food for them. Instead, pack food like:
- Oats (uncooked)
- Rice (cooked or uncooked)
- Grapes (cut in half)
- Frozen peas or corn (defrosted, no need to cook)
- Chopped lettuce or other greens or salad mixes
- Vegetable trimmings or peels (chopped)
- Birdseed (any type or mix)
- Cracked corn, wheat, barley or similar grains
Where to find ducks on Sydney’s North Shore
1. Bobbin Head, Ku-ring-gai Chase National Park
You’ll find ducks at Bobbin Head
Ducks can be usually be found by the Galley Foods Restaurant & Kiosk at the marina, or otherwise just wandering around near the water. While you’re there, check out the huge playground with equipment for kids of all ages or go for a stroll along the boardwalk bushwalking track through the mangroves (it’s pram friendly).
You can enter either via North Turramurra or Mount Colah. There’s an $12 vehicle entry fee, though if you go every couple of months it’s worth investing in an annual Multi Park Pass for $65 which covers entry to all parks in NSW (except Kosciuszko).
Please note, duck feeding is not allowed at Bobbin Head.
2. Macquarie University
Talavera Road, North Ryde
You’ll find lots of ducks by Mars Creek Lake near the Travelodge. Make a day of it, and combine it with a swim at the Macquarie University Aquatic Centre!
3. Ginger Meggs Park, Hornsby
The playground at Ginger Meggs Park
24x Valley Road, Hornsby
You’ll find ducks on the upper North Shore – specifically Ginger Meggs Park in Hornsby! There’s lots to do at Ginger Meggs Park in Hornsby – like a fantastic playground, wide open green lawn to run around, a junior bike track, bush walks and picnic tables. Plus, ducks can often be found!
4. Crosslands Reserve, Hornsby Heights
You can also swim at Crosslands Reserve!
End of Somerville Road, Hornsby Heights
Located within Berowra Valley National Park, you’ll find lots of ducks the beautiful Crosslands Reserve. You can enjoy the playground, a bushwalk, picnic or BBQ. Older kids will enjoy canoeing, fishing or bike riding.
Please note, duck feeding is not allowed at Crosslands Reserve.
5. Fagan Park, Galston
38-48 Arcadia Road, Galston
Fagan Park, Galston
It’s worth the drive to Fagan Park… it’s covers 55 hectares, and features beautiful themed gardens, two large playgrounds, bushwalking trails and BBQs. If you go at the weekend or during school holidays, you can grab a latte or ice cream from the coffee cart near the playground. The ducks can be found down by the lake. Parking is $5 per vehicle.
Read our Playground Review: Fagan Park.
6. Narrabeen Lagoon
Feeding the ducks and sea gulls at Narrabeen Lagoon
Berry Reserve – Wheeler Park, off Pittwater Road, Narrabeen
There are lots of ducks roaming along the waterfront at Narrabeen Lagoon, from Berry Reserve to Wheeler Park. Bring the bikes and scooters too, there’s a path along the river which is great for a ride.
7. Brooklyn
Just 20 minutes from Wahroonga via the M1, Brooklyn is not only great for feeding ducks, but pelicans too! There are lots of great Fish & Chip shops near the waterfront too, a playground and an enclosed area where kids can take a dip in the Hawkesbury River.
8. Lane Cove National Park (Jenkins Hill Picnic Area)
Lady Game Drive, Chatswood West
There are ducks down near the weir, but unfortunately you’re not actually allowed to feed them (there’s a big sign). Once you’ve said ‘hello’ to the ducks, there’s also a playground and some nice walks for older kids (not pram friendly). You enter via Lady Game Drive in Chatswood West.
More information on the National Parks website.
Please note, duck feeding is not allowed at Lane Cove National Park.
