Wildlife of Western Australia
Wildlife in Western Australia can be found spanning arid deserts, lush forests, and rich coastal regions. Popular species like the quokka, a small marsupial found on Rottnest Island and the numbat, a termite-eating marsupial, are unique to the state. The coastline is home to marine life such as humpback whales, bottlenose dolphins, and sea turtles, while the Ningaloo Reef hosts whale sharks, manta rays, and colourful coral species. Western Australia’s vast wilderness also supports birdlife, including black swans, Carnaby’s black cockatoos, and emus. Conservation efforts focus on protecting these species and their diverse habitats.
Western Australia is home to an amazing array of wildlife species, many of which are endemic to the region. From the red kangaroo to the numbat, this ancient and unique part of the world is home to a variety of fascinating animals that have adapted to their environment over millions of years.
Observing Wildlife in Western Australia
Western Australia, comprising roughly one-third of the Australian continent, hosts less than a tenth of the nation’s populace. This expansive territory is adorned with rugged outback, pristine tropical waters, and wildflowers that burst into vivid hues each spring. Whale watching is merely one of the myriad attractions in this state, which also boasts magnificent beaches, exceptional camping spots, and world-renowned wine regions.
Perth and Its Vicinity
At Perth Zoo, visitors have the rare opportunity to observe the numbat, an endearing Australian mammal that is notably more active during the day than at night. A short trip from Perth to Rottnest Island offers a unique chance to encounter the quokka, a small marsupial related to kangaroos, found exclusively in this region. Here, one can approach these friendly creatures closely.
The Southwest Corner
The southwestern part of the state, often referred to as the garden of Western Australia, is a birdwatcher’s paradise. It is home to honeyeaters, the red-tailed black cockatoo, whistlers, stints, and nearly 30 species of parrots. National parks in this area are teeming with Western Grey Kangaroos, echidnas, euros, potoroos, bandicoots, woylies (Brush-tailed Bettong), boodies (Burrowing Bettong), and the numbat, which now resides solely in Western Australia. During the winter months, southern right whales can be spotted off the Albany coast. The Dolphin Discovery Centre offers extensive information about dolphins and other marine life, along with cruise opportunities.
The North
Venturing into the far north reveals vast open spaces, ancient boab trees, and intriguing ‘cities’ of termite mounds, whose shapes and colours vary with termite species and the subsoil. The Kimberley region is a treasure trove of enchanting locales, from the beehive-shaped rock formations of the Bungle Bungles to the cool waters of Tunnel Creek. Geike Gorge is an excellent camping site, renowned for its remarkable bird chorus—a symphony from desert, woodland, semi-rainforest, and riverine birds. Freshwater crocodiles, smaller and less dangerous than their saltwater counterparts, inhabit these waters, among water-lilies and ancient limestone cliffs that display Devonian fossils.
The World Heritage-listed Ningaloo Reef, Australia’s second-largest coral reef and the largest fringing reef, provides opportunities to witness humpback whales and large schools of manta rays, and even to swim with the colossal whale shark. Shark Bay, another World Heritage site, is famous for the sociable wild bottlenose dolphins at Monkey Mia and also hosts dugongs, turtles, manta rays, school sharks, and the enormous but gentle whale sharks during winter. The stromatolites, rock-like structures formed by blue-green algae, remain as they were 3.5 billion years ago. Kimberley Whales, Kimberley Quest, and Oceanwise offer marine wildlife experiences, while Kimberley Birdwatching showcases the region’s avian diversity across various habitats.
take a look at some of the most remarkable creatures of Western Australia
Quokkas, small marsupials native to Western Australia, are often referred to as “the happiest animal in the world” due to their friendly and curious nature. These animals are found on Rottnest Island, a popular tourist destination off the coast of Perth, and are known for their cute appearance and love of human interaction.
Other marsupials found in Western Australia include wallabies, possums, and bandicoots. These animals can be found in a range of habitats, including forests, grasslands, and coastal areas.
Western Australia is also home to a wide range of birdlife, including the black swan, the Western Australian emu, and the galah. These birds can be found in wetlands, forests, and grasslands across the state.
Reptiles, including snakes, lizards, and turtles, are also found in Western Australia. The region is home to a number of venomous snake species, including the death adder, the taipan, and the tiger snake, so it is important to be aware of these animals and take precautions when exploring the outdoors.
Western Australia is a paradise for nature lovers, with a diversity native wildlife waiting to be discovered. It’s home to some truly incredible creatures. From kangaroos hopping across vast plains to numbats scurrying through hollow logs searching for termites or blue-tongued lizards basking in warm sunlight; these fascinating creatures are an integral part of life in WA’s ancient landscape. Scientists studying this region should make sure they don’t miss out on seeing these marvellous animals first hand.
