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A Guide to Australia’s Wildlife – Where to See Iconic Animals in the Wild

Australia is world-famous for its incredible wildlife and unique native animals found nowhere else on Earth. From kangaroos and koalas to quokkas, wombats, and whale sharks, every region offers the chance to experience these amazing creatures up close. Here’s your ultimate guide to where to see Australia’s most iconic wildlife in their natural habitat.

Whether you’re exploring the beaches of Western Australia, the rainforests of Queensland, or the rugged wilds of Tasmania, Australia offers endless opportunities to see native wildlife in their natural environments. For tailor-made Australia wildlife holidays, our travel experts can create your perfect itinerary from kangaroo encounters to swimming with whale sharks.

Kangaroos

Featured on Australia’s coat of arms, the iconic kangaroo is one of the country's most recognisable animals. Australia is home to 60 different species, including a rare tree-climbing variety. Kangaroos can be spotted across the country, with particularly high populations in the following areas:

Lucky Bay, Western Australia

That iconic picture you see of Australia with the kangaroos on the white sand beach is Lucky Bay, the kangaroos can be spotted relaxing in the sun.

Kangaroo Island

It’s in the name, just a short journey from Adelaide Kangaroo Island is home to an estimated 65,000 kangaroos! It’s the perfect place to spot them alongside other Aussie icons.

Daintree Rainforest

In Queensland look out for the Tree Kangaroos they look different to other breads of kangaroos and can be seen in the Daintree Rainforest. They are nocturnal so best time to spot them is on a night time guided walk.

Vineyards

While enjoying the variety of wines on offer in the various wine regions of Australia including Margret River, Hunter Valley and the Barossa often kangaroos can be spotted hopping around.

Koala

Australia’s sleepiest animal is the koala sleeping 22 hours a day! The best spot to see koala’s is on Raymond Island approximately 3.5 hours east of Melbourne follow the koala trail and catch them taking a nap in the trees. Other destinations where you can spot koala’s includes Kangaroo Island, Currumbin Wildlife Sanctuary and Lone Pine Koala Sanctuary.

Quokkas

Often referred to as Australia’s happiest animal due to their adorable smiles. Quokkas can be seen on Rottnest Island off the coast of Perth on a short 90-minute ferry ride. These curious animals are best spotted in the afternoon as they are nocturnal and don’t forget to take your Quokka selfie, they love the camera!

Wombats

Wombats can be spotted in Tasmania, Victoria, southeastern South Australia, and parts of eastern New South Wales. They can also be found in mountain districts as far north as southern Queensland. 

Tasmanian Devils

Native to Tasmania the Tasmanian Devil is a small but mighty animal, they can be hard to spot due to being nocturnal. Although you might hear them as it’s their loud screams which granted their name Tasmanian Devil’s. Due to first European settlers who arrived in Tasmania who where scared of their shrieks and growls in the distance.

Whale Sharks

These gentle giants can be seen along Western Australia’s coast at Ningaloo Reef. From March to August whale sharks migrate here and you can take part in a once in a lifetime snorkelling experience and witness the whales up close.

Crocodiles

Australia’s Northern Territory is the best spot to crocodiles in the wild, there is around 100,000 crocodiles in the territory. Kakadu National Park is great place to catch a glimpse of a crocodile on a guided boat tour. Crocodiles can also be seen in parts in Queensland’s including in the Daintree Rainforest.

 

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