Hundreds of species of birds are found in the ecosystems connected to the river network. These include wetland and wading birds, forest and woodland songbirds, flocks of colourful and vocal parrots, birds of prey from the coast to the uplands, and diving birds that feed and swim in the waters. Listen along any quiet stretch of the river and hear the calls of birds as they move around, especially at dawn and dusk. These are the times that platypus are also likely to be active, floating briefly at the surface then diving to the riverbed to search for waterbugs and crustaceans. Frogs, turtles and reptiles bask along the banks and along the waters’ edge, seeking shelter from predators. Thirty species of fish have been recorded in the river, although many native fish are in decline and introduced fish species can be found throughout the catchment. Numerous mammals call the river home, and even around Werribee township, wallabies, microbats and echidnas can be seen.

The Werribee River Association respectfully acknowledges the Traditional Owners of what is now known as the Werribee catchment; their rich culture and deep spiritual connection to the land, animals, plants, rivers, and sea.

 We acknowledge that many places within the Werribee River catchment were where the Aboriginal people lived and prospered, but are also the sites where Aboriginal society was decimated by disease, dispossession, and killings.

 We strive to work and learn together, to restore what has been lost and to heal the pain of this traumatic legacy.