Discover Australia’s Animals: A Complete Wildlife Guide for Travellers

Australia is known for its incredible everchanging landscapes. But it is also home to some of the most unique wildlife on Earth, with animals you won’t find anywhere else in the world!

This guide will cover the most iconic Australian wildlife with kangaroos, koalas, platypus and echidnas, wombats, colourful parrots, the giant whale sharks and not to forget the crocodiles, emus and cassowaries.

Whether you’re exploring national parks, relaxing at a campsite, or driving along Australia’s stunning coastlines, this guide will help you identify Australia’s most well-known animals, understand where and when to see them, and learn how to observe wildlife responsibly.

Take your time, keep your distance, and enjoy the incredible privilege of seeing Australia’s wildlife in its natural environment… it’s an experience you’ll never forget.

👉 Click on your favourite animal (or keep scrolling down) to learn more: Kangaroos,  Koalas, Wombats, Quokkas, Echidnas, Platypus, Tasmanian Devils, Parrots, Emus, Cassowaries, Crocodiles and Whale Sharks!

 

1. Kangaroos

Kangaroos are one of Australia’s most iconic animals and are instantly recognisable! They are marsupials, meaning females carry their young (called joeys) in a pouch. Kangaroos are herbivores and mainly feed on grasses, leaves and shrubs. With around two kangaroos for every person in Australia, it’s almost certain you’ll spot one during your road trip in Australia!

 

Image: Red Kangaroos in Outback Australia

 

How Many Species? There are around 60 species of kangaroos and wallabies across Australia. Here are the four most common ones:

• Red kangaroo – The largest marsupial in the world. Using powerful hind legs, they can hop at speeds of 64 km/hand leap up to 8–9 meters in a single bound.
• Eastern Grey kangaroo – A totem animal of deep cultural importance to many First Nations peoples.
• Western Grey kangaroo – One of Australia's largest and most widespread marsupials.
• Antilopine kangaroo – The most social kangaroo, often seen living in large groups!

 

Where To See Kangaroos? They are widespread and can be seen in most parts of Australia, including:

• Open grasslands and bushland – In summer, they often rest in the shade during the hottest part of the day!
• Coastal headlands and beaches – They are surprisingly good swimmers!
• Sanctuaries – These focus on rehabilitation or protecting threatened species. Many also operate wildlife hospitals, offering safe, close-up encounters in semi-natural environments.
• National Parks and reserves – Keep your eyes open when hiking or walking; you may spot kangaroos in the wild.
• Zoos – Most Australian zoos feature species of kangaroos

🦘 Some of the best sanctuaries across the country: Alice Springs Kangaroo Sanctuary, The Great Ocean Road Wildlife Park, Currumbin Sanctuary in Queensland, Ballarat Wildlife Park in Victoria…

 

Best Time To See Kangaroos? You might wake up at your campsite to find kangaroos nearby early in the morning or late in the afternoon. Kangaroos are most active at dawn and dusk, especially during warmer months when daytime temperatures are higher. They can be seen year-round.

 

 

How To Care For Kangaroos? Whether you’re spotting kangaroos in the wild or visiting a sanctuary or zoo, always keep a safe distance and follow guidance from wildlife carers. Some important ground rules:

• Never feed kangaroos human food as it could make them sick.
• Drive carefully, especially outside towns. We strongly recommend avoiding driving at dawn, dusk and overnight. (See our comprehensive guide on the dangers of night driving)
• Do not try to interact with joeys – trained wildlife carers should handle injured or orphaned animals.
• Be cautious around large males – kangaroos are extremely strong and can become aggressive if threatened.

Fun fact: Kangaroos can’t walk backwards! This is one reason they’re featured on Australia’s Coat of Arms, symbolising a nation that always moves forward.

 

2. Koalas

One of Australia’s beloved animals! Often (incorrectly) called koala “bear”, they are in fact marsupials, closely related to wombats. Koalas spend most of their lives in eucalyptus trees where they eat, sleep and rest. Their unique diet and low-energy lifestyle mean they can sleep up to 20 hours per day!

 

 

Where To See Koalas? Koalas can be difficult to spot in the wild, as they are excellent at blending into tree canopies. They are found in eucalyptus forests and woodlands along Australia’s east coast:

• Queensland, New South Wales and Victoria – The main koala range.
• National parks and reserves – Such as Great Otway National Park (VIC), Noosa National Park (QLD) and Port Stephens–Great Lakes Marine Park (NSW).
• Wildlife sanctuaries and zoos – Many offer close-up sightings and educational talks, often supporting conservation efforts.
• In the wild, you can try visiting Magnetic Island in Queensland! There is a special walk to spot koalas in the wild.

🐨 Best sanctuaries: Lone Pine Koala Sanctuary in Brisbane, Port Stephens Koala Sanctuary in NSW, Billabong Sanctuary in Townsville QLD…

 

Best Time To See Koalas? Koalas are not very active, and when they are, it’s mostly at night, early morning and late afternoon. During the day, they usually rest high in eucalyptus trees, especially in hot weather.

 

Image: Koala spotting in Magnetic Island

 

How To Care For Koalas? Koalas are protected wildlife and require careful human behaviour to stay safe:

• Do not touch or feed koalas in the wild, human interaction causes stress.
• Keep noise to a minimum when spotting a koala resting in a tree.
• Drive carefully in koala zones, as they sometimes cross roads between trees.
• Report injured koalas to local wildlife rescue organisations rather than attempting to help yourself.

Fun Fact: They can consume up to one kilogram (2.2 pounds) of eucalyptus leaves every day! The eucalyptus leaves are poisonous to most animals; however, Koalas have evolved a highly specialised liver and digestive system that can detoxify these chemicals.

 

3. Wombats

Native to Australia, wombats are sturdy, burrowing marsupials. With their muscular and compact bodies, and their short legs, they are perfectly built for digging long burrow systems. They are herbivores, feeding mainly on grasses, roots and bark. They mostly are nocturnal animals, coming out at night to forage.

 

Image: Southern Hairy-nosed Wombats in a sanctuary

 

How Many Species? There are three species of wombats in Australia:

• Common Wombat – Found across southern and eastern Australia; they are stocky with coarse fur and a distinctive square-shaped nose.
• Southern Hairy-nosed Wombat – Smaller than the common wombat, found in arid regions of South Australia.
• Northern Hairy-nosed Wombat – Extremely rare and critically endangered, with fewer than 300 individuals left, mostly in protected reserves in Queensland.

Where To See Wombats? Wombats are shy and mostly nocturnal, but sometimes, they can be seen in the wild at dusk or dawn. Key places to spot them are:

• National parks and reserves – Kosciuszko National Park (NSW), Grampians National Park (VIC), and Narawntapu National Park, Maria Island and Cradle Mountain (TAS) are great for wild sightings.
• Wildlife sanctuaries and zoos – Many sanctuaries offer opportunities to see wombats up close while learning about their conservation.
• Roadside paddocks and bushland – Wombats sometimes wander near rural roads, so always drive carefully, avoiding dawn, dusk and night.

 

Best Time To See Wombats? Wombats are most active at night, so early morning or late evening is the best time for a sighting. You might also spot them during the day in cooler weather when they leave their burrows.

 

Image: Common Wombat

 

How To Care For Wombats? Consider visiting sanctuaries or donating to protect endangered species like the northern hairy-nosed wombat. Follow those ground rules:

• Do not feed wombats, human food can harm them.
• Keep your distance! Wild wombats are shy but powerful and can bite if threatened.
• Don’t drive at night. Wombats frequently crossroads at dusk or dawn, and collisions can be fatal for both wombats and humans. Don’t risk it.

Fun Fact: Wombats have cube-shaped poop! This unique shape helps mark their territory without rolling away and is one of the most unusual features in the animal kingdom.

 

4. Quokkas

Have you heard of the “happiest animals in the world”? Meet the Quokkas, those small and friendly-looking marsupials with their naturally smiling faces! They are nocturnal herbivores and feed mainly on grasses, leaves and shrubs. They are a small wallaby relative, about the size of a domestic cat, with a short tail and rounded ears. Despite their cute appearance, quokkas are wild animals like any other and should always be treated with respect.

 

Image: Quokkas roaming freely on Rottnest Island, WA

 

Where To See Quokkas? They thrive in areas with dense vegetation and access to fresh water. They have a very limited natural range and are mainly found in Western Australia:

• Rottnest Island (WA) – The most famous place to see quokkas, with a healthy and protected population.
• Bald Island (WA) – A smaller, remote island with a wild population.
• Parts of mainland Western Australia – Mostly in protected bushland and reserves near Perth.
• You can possibly find some in sanctuaries or reserves around Australia

 

Best Time To See Quokkas? As most marsupials, Quokkas are also nocturnal, so they will be more active early in the morning and late in the afternoon. However, if you’re visiting Rottnest Island, they’re often seen during the day in shaded areas.

 

 

How To Care For Quokkas? Quokkas are protected by law, and strict rules apply to keep them safe. Fines apply for harming or feeding quokkas, even unintentionally.

• Do not touch or feed quokkas. Feeding them can cause serious health issues.
• Keep a respectful distance, even when taking photos.
• Never pick them up! This can cause injury and stress.
• Store food securely… Quokkas are curious and may try to access human food.

Fun Fact: Early Dutch explorers mistook quokkas for giant rats and named Rottnest Island “Rattennest” (rat’s nest), a name that stuck!

 

5. Echidnas

Also known as spiny anteaters, Echidnas are one of Australia’s most unique animals. Covered in sharp yellow and dark spines and coarse fur, they use their strong claws to dig for food and burrow into the ground when threatened. They feed mainly on ants and termites, using their long, sticky tongue to catch their prey. Echidnas are quiet, solitary animals and can be surprisingly hard to spot in the wild.

 

 

How Many Species? There are four species worldwide, but only one lives in Australia: the Short-beaked Echidna, found across the country.

 Where To See Echidnas? Echidnas are widespread but shy, so sightings are often brief:

• Tasmania – A great place to see echidnas due to cooler climates and quieter environments.
• National parks and bushland – Common in forests, woodlands and scrub.
• Rural and semi-rural areas – Occasionally spotted crossing tracks or roads.
• Wildlife sanctuaries and zoos – Offer reliable sightings and educational experiences.

 

Best Time To See Echidnas? Echidnas are mostly active during the day in cooler weather, making them easier to spot in autumn and winter. In warmer months, they tend to be more active in the early morning or late afternoon.

 

 

How To Care For Echidnas?

• Never touch or pick up an echidna, their spines are sharp and they can easily injure themselves.
• Give them space! If disturbed, echidnas will dig straight down to protect their soft belly.
• Drive carefully in bush areas, as echidnas sometimes crossroads slowly.
• Do not feed echidnas, human food can cause serious health problems.

Fun Fact: Echidnas are one of only five living mammal species in the world that lay eggs, making them part of an incredibly rare group called monotremes.

 

6. Platypus

With a duck-like bill, webbed feet and a beaver-like tail, it almost looks like several animals combined into one… The Platypus is one of the most unusual animals in the world and is found only in Australia! They are semi-aquatic mammals and spend most of their time swimming in rivers and freshwater lakes, where they hunt for food underwater. It’s a monotreme mammal like the echidna, meaning that it lays eggs instead of giving birth to live young.

 

 

Where To See Platypus? Platypuses live in freshwater environments along Australia’s east coast:

• Rivers, creeks and lakes in Queensland, New South Wales, Victoria and Tasmania.
• Tasmania is one of the best places to see platypuses in the wild due to healthy populations and quieter waterways.
• National parks and protected waterways, especially calm, shaded rivers with muddy banks.
• Wildlife sanctuaries and zoos offer specialised platypus viewing areas.

 

Best Time To See Platypus? They are most active at dawn and dusk. Early morning and late afternoon are the best times to spot them swimming near the water’s surface. They are shy and sensitive to disturbance, so patience and quiet observation are key.

 

 

How To Care For Platypus?

• Stay quiet and still when watching platypuses to avoid scaring them away.
• Do not feed or attempt to touch a platypus.
• Keep dogs away from waterways where platypuses live.
• Report injured or trapped platypuses (for example, caught in fishing line) to local wildlife rescue groups.

Fun Fact: Male platypuses are venomous! They have a spur on their hind legs that can deliver a painful venom, making them one of the very few venomous mammals in the world. They mainly use this against other males during breeding season.

 

7. Tasmanian Devils

Tasmanian devils are the world’s largest living carnivorous marsupials and are famous for their loud screeches, growls and powerful jaws. Despite their fierce reputation, they are generally shy and avoid humans. Tasmanian devils are mostly nocturnal and play an important role in the ecosystem by scavenging and keeping environments clean.

 

 

Where To See Tasmanian Devils? Native to Tasmania, they prefer forests, woodlands and coastal scrub:

• Tasmania (statewide), especially in national parks and remote bushland.
• Wildlife sanctuaries and conservation parks are the best chance to see devils up close and learn about conservation programs.

🌿 Best sanctuaries: Tasmanian Devil Unzoo, Bonorong Wildlife Sanctuary, Devils at Cradle…

 

Best Time To See Tasmanian Devils? Tasmanian devils are nocturnal, so the best chance to spot them is after sunset. Evening wildlife tours and sanctuary feeding times are often the most reliable way to see them.

 

 

How To Care For Tasmanian Devils?

• Never approach or feed a wild devil — they have strong jaws and sharp teeth.
• Drive carefully in Tasmania, especially in rural areas, as devils are often hit by vehicles while scavenging roadkill.
• Do not disturb or photograph with flash at night, which can stress them.
• Support conservation efforts. Tasmanian devils have been heavily impacted by Devil Facial Tumour Disease (DFTD). Donate here.

Fun Fact: Tasmanian devils have the strongest bite force (for their size) of any living mammal, allowing them to eat bones, fur and even hooves.

 

8. Parrots

Australia is home to some of the most colourful and vocal parrots in the world. Parrots are highly intelligent birds known for their curved beaks, strong claws and playful personalities. They eat a varied diet of seeds, nuts, fruit, nectar and blossoms, and many species live in noisy social groups.

 

Image: Crimson Rosella and Sulphur-crested Cockatoo

 

How Many Species? Australia has over 50 parrot species, including parrots, cockatoos, lorikeets and rosellas. Some of the most well-known include:

• Rainbow Lorikeet – Brightly coloured and commonly seen in cities and coastal areas.
• Sulphur-crested Cockatoo – Loud, curious and very intelligent; often seen in large flocks.
• Galah – Instantly recognisable by its pink chest and grey wings.
• Crimson Rosella – A striking red parrot commonly found in forests and woodlands.

Where To See Parrots? Parrots are widespread and easy to spot across Australia! You may even see parrots flying overhead or hear them before you spot them…

• Urban parks and gardens – Many species thrive in cities and suburbs.
• Bushland and forests – Especially in eucalyptus woodlands.
• Coastal areas and rainforests – Lorikeets are often found where flowering trees are abundant.
• National parks and reserves – A great place to observe parrots in their natural habitat.

 

Best Time To See Parrots? They are mostly active during the day. They can be seen year-round, but activity increases during spring, which is breeding season for many species.

 

Image: Rainbow Lorikeet and Galah

How To Care For Parrots?

• Do not feed wild parrots, human food can cause illness and dependency.
• Keep your distance and avoid disturbing nesting birds.
• Secure food at campsites, as parrots are clever and may help themselves.
• Never attempt to handle injured birds. Contact local wildlife rescue organisations.

Fun Fact: Some Australian parrots are so intelligent they can open bins, doors and even drink fountains! A skill passed between birds by watching each other.

 

9. Emus

Emus are the largest native birds in Australia and the second-largest birds in the world after ostriches. They are flightless but incredibly fast and strong, with long legs built for running. Emus are curious animals and are often seen wandering through open landscapes in small groups.

 

 

Where To See Emus? Emus are widespread across Australia and can be seen in many environments, including:

• Open plains, grasslands and bushland
• National parks and reserves
• Rural areas and farmland
• Occasionally near roads, especially in remote regions

 

Best Time To See Emus? They are active during the day and can be seen year-round. Sightings are common in the morning and late afternoon, when they are feeding and moving between areas.

 

 

How To Care For Emus?

• Do not approach or feed emus, they can become aggressive if threatened.
• Give them plenty of space, especially if they are with chicks.
• Drive carefully in rural and outback areas, as emus may crossroads unexpectedly.
• Never try to touch or chase an emu.

Fun Fact: Emus can run at speeds of up to 50 km/h and take strides up to 3 metres long.

 

10. Cassowaries

Cassowaries are one of the most striking and powerful birds in the world. Found only in the tropical rainforests of far north Queensland, they have glossy black feathers, bright blue skin on their neck, and a hard casque (helmet) on top of their head. Cassowaries are shy but highly territorial and should be treated with extreme caution. Yeah, they’re a bit scary but wow if you can see one!

 

 

Where To See Cassowaries? They live in tropical rainforests in far north Queensland, where they can find dense forest near rivers, creeks and fruiting trees. You can also see cassowaries in protected national parks and conservation areas.

🌴 You can spot them in the wild at Etty Bay Beach, where they’re considered as locals in the caravan park… Watch out for your fruits, they’ll be attracted to them!

 

Best Time To See Cassowaries? They  are most active early in the morning and late in the afternoon. They are elusive and sightings are rare, making any encounter especially memorable.

 

 

How To Care For Cassowaries And Stay Safe?

• Never approach or feed a cassowary, this is extremely dangerous, especially if they have chicks.
• Keep a safe distance and do not block their path.
• If you encounter a cassowary, stay calm, keep eye contact and slowly back away.
• Drive slowly in cassowary zones, especially in far north Queensland.

(Fun) Fact: Cassowaries have a dagger-like claw on each foot that can grow up to 12 cm long, making them one of the most dangerous birds in the world.

 

11. Crocodiles

Crocodiles are powerful reptiles that have lived on Earth for millions of years. In Australia, they are found mainly in the tropical north and are known for their strength, stealth and patience. While crocodiles are fascinating to observe, they are also extremely dangerous, and safety rules must always be followed in crocodile habitats.

 

 

How Many Species? In Australia, we have two crocodile species:

• Saltwater Crocodile – The largest living reptile in the world. Also called “salties” by locals, they can grow over 6 metres long and live in saltwater, freshwater and estuaries.
• Freshwater Crocodile – Smaller than saltwater crocodiles, generally less aggressive but still dangerous if provoked.

Where To See Crocodiles? For safe viewing opportunities, we recommend wildlife parks and guided tours:

• Northern Territory, northern Queensland and northern Western Australia
• Rivers, billabongs, creeks and estuaries
• Coastal waters and mangrove systems (especially saltwater crocodiles)

🐊 The Daintree in north Queensland is a famous area for crocodile spotting, jump on the Crocodile Tour!

 

Best Time To See Crocodiles? They can be seen year-round in tropical regions. They are often more visible during the dry season (May to October), when they gather around shrinking water sources. In the winter months (or dry season), they most likely be sunbathing to keep warm. During the wet season (November to April), they will seek cooler temperatures underwater.

 

 

How To Care For Crocodiles And Stay Safe?

• Never swim in rivers, creeks or estuaries in crocodile regions. Check for signs!
• Always obey warning signs, they are placed for a reason.
• Stay well back from the water’s edge and never clean fish near the water.
• Do not camp close to waterways in crocodile areas.
• Never feed crocodiles, it is illegal and extremely dangerous.

(Fun) Fact: Saltwater crocodiles can hold their breath for up to an hour and use powerful tail movements to launch themselves out of the water when attacking prey.

 

12. Whale Sharks

Whale sharks are the largest fish in the world and one of the ocean’s most gentle giants. Despite their enormous size, whale sharks are harmless to humans and feed mainly on tiny plankton, small fish and krill. Their distinctive grey-blue skin is covered in white spots, with each pattern being unique, much like a fingerprint. They’re found in warm oceans around the world, including Australian waters.

 

 

Where To See Whale Sharks? Australia is the best place in the world to encounter those incredible animals:

• Ningaloo Reef, Western Australia – The most famous and reliable location for whale shark encounters.
• Coral Sea and northern Western Australia – Occasional sightings during warmer months.
• Whale sharks are usually found in offshore waters, not close to beaches.

🦈 Book a Whale Sharks Tour to see them up close and even swim with them if you’re feeling adventurous!

 

Best Time To See Whale Sharks? The best time to see whale sharks in Australia is March to July/August, when they gather around Ningaloo Reef following coral spawning events. Guided tours offer responsible and regulated encounters during this season.

 

 

How To Care For Whale Sharks And Stay Safe?

• Only swim with whale sharks through licensed operators.
• Never touch or ride a whale shark, this can damage their skin.
• Keep a safe distance and follow guide instructions at all times.
• Do not use flash photography

Fun Fact: Whale sharks can grow up to 12 metres long, yet they feed by filtering tiny plankton from the water — similar to baleen whales.

 

Start Planning Your Road Trip in Australia!

Australia’s wildlife is as diverse as it is extraordinary, and seeing these animals in their natural habitats is an experience you’ll treasure forever. The best way to explore it all? Hit the road in a motorhome. Travel at your own pace, stay close to nature, and discover hidden gems along the way. With your Cruisin’ Motorhome as your base, every day becomes an adventure, and every stop a chance to connect with Australia’s incredible animals.

Start planning your ultimate wildlife road trip today and create memories that will last a lifetime! 🚐🦘🌿

Call our friendly reservations team on 1300 664 485 or check out our website to see the motorhomes we have available at our branches!

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