If you had to choose a place to raise your young, would the main walkway of the Ramada Resort in Port Douglas spring to mind?

Most likely not, but this is what a family of magpie geese is doing as we speak.

A quartet of the much-loved Douglas Shire birds has been taking turns to guard four large, shiny, white eggs, which are nestled in a palm tree just next to the Ramada front counter.

Surprised resort guests are confronted with the full tropical wildlife experience as soon as they check in and head for their rooms.

Although the birds are harmless, they can make quite a racket, and they are guarding the large nest vigilantly from nearby rails and rooftops, as well as the nest itself.

Resort resident Herb Taylor is amazed by the hotel-foyer display.

“It’s great how they can trust us,” Herb says.