The season of birth

During the Kambarang season, usually October to November, we see an abundance of different colours and flowers exploding all around us. It is often referred to by Noongar people as the season of birth, or the wildflower season.

The yellows of many of the wattles (Acacias) continue to abound, along with some of the Banksias and many other smaller delicate flowering plants including the kangaroo paws and orchids (kara or djubak). Also during this time the balgas will also start to flower, especially if they’ve been burnt in the past year or closely shaved.

One of the most striking displays of flowers to be seen during this season will be the moodjar (WA native Christmas tree) which continues to flower across Noongar boodja (land/country) from October to January. The appearance of these bright orange/yellow flowers serve to signal the heat is on its way.

This is the time of the year you are most likely to encounter a waakal (snake) or yoorn (bobtail lizard), as the reptiles start to awaken from their annual hibernation and make the most of the warmth for energy to look for food.

It’s also a time that many young families of birds will be singing out for their parents to feed them. Koolbardies (magpies) will also be out protecting their nests and their babies, so don’t forget to duck!

Many things are undergoing transformation with the warm change in the weather and the landscape is alive with colour and noise as a result.