Fauna

When most people think of Australian animals there are two that typically pop up first, kangaroos and koalas.  These two, I have to admit are pretty amazing creatures, but Australia  in chock-a-block (another aussie slang word for you) with interesting, unusual animals that you can only find here.


There are animals that you are sure God made just out of left over parts that were lying around.

Animals that look like they must be a direct descendants to dinosaurs.  This is a Cassowary.  We were able to see them in a wildlife park in Cairns, Queensland, which is their native habitat, the rainforest.  Sidenote:  These birds make the strangest drumming vibrations in their chest when they get angry.

 These Gallah's are very common around here and happen to be Tilly's favourite bird, why you ask?  because they are pink of course. :)

Another aussie animal we were able to get up-close and personal with in Cairns were salt water crocs, aka salties.  These monsters kill people.  In northern Australia you don't go swimming in any billabong or river you happen to come across.  These are one of the few creatures on earth that actually hunt people, they see us as potential prey.

Australia's very own turkey, the bush turkey, though I don't think anyone stuffs these for dinner.

Finally. . . .


 No animal post on Australia would be complete without our two Australian icons.

Koalas are one of my absolute favourites.  Their fur is incredibly soft and they smell like Eucalyptus.  They are the only animal I know of that you want to smell their breath.

Then of course there is the Kangaroo.

In Western Australia we see lots of roos.  We see them driving to the shops, when we are out bush-walking, at cemeteries, golf courses, and pretty much anywhere you have open space and grass to eat.  Don't get me wrong they aren't hopping through our neighbourhood, but we don't have to drive very far to get a peak at these Australian icons.

There is also a park that is a few minutes away that is a wildlife centre only for native animals.  It is one of the must see sites when we have visitors because it gives them a true taste of Australia.  You can get up close and personal with the kangaroos, pet a koala, crack a whip, swing a billy, and get to view lots of Aussie wildlife.

Nathan with a wallaby

Australia is chock-full of amazing animals that you can't witness anywhere else.  Come on over and see, we'll put you up.