McCarrs Creek Mangrove Mud Lab

McCarrs Creek Foreshore Reserve is a lovely place to introduce mangrove science. Mangroves are adapted to salty, muddy, changing shorelines where many other plants would struggle. Their roots help trap sediment, create shelter and support busy food webs involving crabs, fish, insects and birds.

This kind of estuary habitat can look humble to children at first glance, but it rewards explanation. Mud is full of nutrients and tiny life. Tides bring in water, leave things behind and change the conditions again. Families can use the stop to talk about productivity: some of the richest habitats are not the flashiest ones.