MALANDA FALLS VISITOR CENTRE
Six things to look out for in May
The Conservation Park has 10 different species of fig. Especially
look out for the banana fig and round leaf fig (pictured). They have
large thick leaves, and are usually epiphytic figs … starting life
perched high in the tree, then sending down roots to the ground.
Also pictured are the stipules that fall after protecting the new
leaves.
A common sight at the moment, especially on the Red Tulip Oak
walk is the fallen leaves and fruit of Lemon Aspen. Although the
fruit is edible, it is not very palatable, having a very strong flavour.
Do pick up the shiny green leaves and enjoy the lemon smell
though.
Yes, this is a picture of poo. Tree kangaroo poo – a small one. It is
noted for being angular and chunky … a good sign a tree kangaroo
could be near. The Malanda Falls Conservation Park is one of the
best places to see this amazing creature in the wild. Also, look out
for other amazing mammals occasionally seen here - the echidna
and platypus.
Near the turtle viewing area a Cape York cedar, also called Buff
Mahogany is flushing with beautiful new leaves and dropping pink
flowers. Only found in Queensland. Seeds are eaten by the Tooth-billed
bowerbird.
Throughout the walks you will see different fungal fruiting bodies .
These are the sexual organs of fungal feeding tendrils in dead wood
and humus, doing important recycling work in the forest.
Mushrooms or toadstools are immediately recognisable, but there
are also woody bracket fungi, and even underground truffles.
While crossing the river on the footbridge, look out for the clay bank.
This was an uncommon source of coloured clay for decoration of
local aboriginal people… as most of the Tablelands is red soil. Also
while on the footbridge look at the falls and remember that during
the flooding with Cyclone Ita last month, there were no falls!