Settlement Point Viewing Platform

The Settlement Point viewing platform at Emita on Flinders Island is a popular spot to witness the return of the Shearwaters or Mutton-birds to their burrows during dusk.

This natural phenomenon occurs between November and April when the birds come home after a day of feeding at sea.

The Short Tailed Shearwater, also known as the Mutton-Bird, is a member of the Procellariae family, which includes 100 medium to large seabirds. Breeding season for these birds is from September to April. During this time, they breed in burrows that are about 1 meter long. In November, after preparing their burrows and finding mates, the Mutton-birds briefly leave the colony to feed before returning to lay a single egg.

Chicks hatch in late January, and both parents participate in their feeding and care. After 2-3 weeks, the parents leave the down-covered chicks, and the fledglings start losing weight rapidly as they grow flight feathers. The Short Tailed Shearwater, or Mutton-Bird, has a lifespan of 15-19 years, with some individuals living up to 38 years.

To witness the spectacular return of the Mutton-birds to their burrows, the best time to visit the Settlement Point viewing platform is between November and April.

The Settlement Point viewing platform is located in Emita, Flinders Island. Flinders Island can be reached by air from Launceston or Melbourne, or by ferry from Bridport in Tasmania. Once on the island, the viewing platform is easily accessible by a short drive.