The air is crisp and the great outdoors is calling.
It's winter time, and the flora and fauna in the Royal National Park is coming out to play.
These photographs are some of the captivating scenes on offer in the national park, as a new season sprouts.
The cooler weather means it is a great time of year to enjoy a bush walk or a spot of bird watching.
Experience nature’s stunning show of wildlife on any day of the week – just in time for World Environment Day on June 5.
National Parks and Wildlife Service ranger David Croft says the winter months are ideal for bird watching in the national park.
“The wildlife in the Royal is very busy in winter,” he said.
“I regularly see New Holland honeyeaters with their distinctive yellow wing patch flitting around the coastal headland, searching for nectar and insects.
“Royal is also home to the colourful Azure Kingfisher.
“If you’re extra lucky you might spot one of these uncommon birds with their deep royal-blue feathers, violet sheen and unique orange stripes on each of its sides.
“It prefers freshwater habitats along rivers so you might find them along the Hacking River, upstream from Audley.”
More than 300 species of birds have been recorded at Royal National Park.
The natural haven is also home to thousands of wildflowers including colourful Waratahs, giant red flowered Gymea Lilies and coastal heath species.
Mr Croft says the plants flowering in June include the Acacia suaveolens and Banksia serrata, both yellow flowers and the Correa alba and Epacris longiflora.
“There are also numerous bush walks through the park’s different vegetation communities where you can see native plants and experience the sights and sounds of winter,” he said.
