Gorge Wildlife Park, Adelaide Hills

This is the hidden jewel of wildlife in the Adelaide Hills. Situated on 14 acres of land, under shaded trees, paths meander among one of the largest privately-owned collection of Australian and exotic animals, birds and reptiles in the country.

Gorge Wildlife Park charges a low admission fee of about $24 for adults, $21 for seniors and pensioner concession cardholders. We start at 9am with a chat in the dining area (just after you get admission, and perhaps a coffee or bite to eat), then I'll show you some of the features in the park. One of my favourite places to go is the lake, which you can easily spend time with your telephoto lens to get shots of the birds landing and taking off. A taller tripod may relieve your arms.

You can stay until the park closes at 4:30pm, if you like.

• Animal and bird photography
• Autofocus modes, such as animal eye-AF

• Telephoto lens
• Tripod (optional)