Litchfield National Park
MAGNETIC TERMITE MOUNDS
Magnetic Termite Mounds.
Believe your eyes as you survey hundreds of two-metre-high termite mounds standing upright in the same direction, like enormous magnetic compasses.
About 17 kilometres from the eastern boundary of the park is the first major batch of magnetic termite mounds. Up to 100 years old, these structures are unique to the northern parts of Australia and Litchfield National Park.
Boardwalks take you close to the 2m high, thin magnetic termite mounds and the taller 4m high cathedral termite mounds. An information shelter provides a fascinating insight into these remarkable creatures and their habitat.
Built by termites, they are amazing architectural feats complete with arches, tunnels, chimneys, insulation and nursery chambers. The mounds are aligned north to south to minimise the exposure to the sun, keeping the mounds cool for the magnetic termites inside. You will see numerous termite mounds when you visit the Northern Territory, but Litchfield National Park and especially the formal viewing boardwalk and platform, is a perfect place to see both specimens.
Travel about 120 kilometres south of Darwin to reach these majestic marvels.
Best Seasons:All year
Popular Location:
Darwin, Kakadu, Batchelor
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