Taking centre stage is Australia's most colourful bird, the Gouldian finch - enthusiast are even coming from overseas to see the rarity.

In its second year, the Katherine Bird Festival is making the most of one of the world's best bird watching spots and tying science with unique wildlife observation.

Festival organiser and bird expert, Mick Jerram said the festival will showcase Katherine's distinctive bird life, while also contributing information about the finch to scientific data collection.

With bird experts on hand across the festival, bird watchers will be able to help out with collecting important data on finch counts.

The information will then be provided to scientists at CDU who are studying the Yinberrie Hills and Mt Todd area.

Every year, thousands of people make the trip to the bird watching mecca of the Top End hoping to catch a glimpse of the Gouldian finch.

"It is a great time of year to come bird watching and with experts on hand guiding bush walks we are providing pathways to see the amazing bird life we have here," Mr Jerram said.

The festival includes bird watching, a bird-finding Gorge boat tour, bush walking and sunset viewings.

The festival is taking place as part of the Nitmiluk Festival, celebrating 30 years since Nitmiluk was handed back to Jawoyn traditional owners.

The festival starts tomorrow and runs until September 15. For more information about festival activities contact the Katherine Visitor Centre on 1800 653 142 and head here to register for events.

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