Discover the top wildlife encounters in Western Australia. Here’s a brief overview:
Amazing Western Australia Wildlife
Western Australia (WA) is the largest state in Australia and attracts over 10 million visitors each year. Its stunning beaches, world-class surfing opportunities, and incredible wine regions are just the beginning. Moreover, this region is teeming with incredible wildlife that every nature lover should explore.
15. Kangaroos
The kangaroo, Australia’s most iconic animal, is common across WA. For the best chance of seeing these fascinating creatures, visit Pinaroo Memorial Park at dawn or dusk in the Perth metro area. Additionally, fantastic spots include the Petra Olive Oil Estate and Cape Range National Park, where the likelihood of encountering kangaroos increases significantly.
14. Try to Spy an Echidna
The echidna, one of Australia’s most unique mammals, resembles a mix between a hedgehog and a porcupine. Known for their camouflage, they can be difficult to spot in the wild. For excellent viewing opportunities, head to Kalamunda, approximately an hour from Perth, and explore the Bibbulman track, famous for its echidna sightings.
13. Snorkel with Dolphins
Swimming with wild dolphins is a dream for many adventure seekers. Western Australia offers several locations where you can snorkel with these playful creatures. We recommend the Bunbury Dolphin Discovery, where daily tours provide opportunities to swim with dolphins while also enjoying the stunning coastline.
12. Interact with Stingrays
Hamelin Bay in the Margaret River Region is the perfect place to observe stingrays up close. During summer, these gentle creatures are often spotted close to the shore, allowing visitors to engage with them in a safe environment. Observing or even feeding them from the shallows offers an unforgettable experience.
11. Sea Lions and Fur Seals
Visiting Green Head on WA’s Mid-west coast gives you the opportunity to swim with sea lions and fur seals. These playful sea mammals often approach visitors, making for a fun and memorable interaction, especially during the warmer months.
10. Spot Cute Penguins
Penguin Island, located just south of Perth, is home to a delightful colony of 1,200 little penguins. As the smallest penguin species globally, these charming birds offer a unique experience for wildlife enthusiasts. Strolling around the island provides opportunities to see these adorable creatures in their natural habitat.
9. Meet a Quokka
Quokkas, known for their adorable smiles, are unique to a few islands off Western Australia’s coast. These friendly marsupials have no innate fear of humans, making them ideal for selfies. Visit Rottnest Island to easily encounter these creatures and capture that unforgettable quokka selfie.
8. Exotic and Interesting Birds
Wildlife lovers will find a rich birdwatching paradise in WA. Classic Australian birds such as kookaburras and black swans can be spotted in locations like Kings Park, which offers stunning city views alongside its diverse avian population.
7. A Night Safari to See a Possum
Tuart Forest National Park, the last remaining section of Tuart forest, hosts Western Australia’s critically endangered western ringtail possum. A nighttime safari here on the Possum Spotlight Trail reveals the beauty and wonder of these nocturnal creatures along with other wildlife like owls and bats.
6. Sea Turtles
WA boasts six of the world’s seven sea turtle species. Ningaloo Reef Marine Park is a top location to encounter these fascinating creatures. Visitors can enjoy a seamless experience of parking, walking to the beach, and finding themselves swimming alongside these gentle giants.
5. Sharks
While shark sightings are rare, diving tours from Coral Bay significantly increase your chances of seeing various species, including reef and tiger sharks. These thrilling encounters make WA a prime destination for adventure seekers.
4. Manta Ray
Manta rays, reaching wingspans of up to nine metres, can be found in Coral Bay throughout the year. Tours allow visitors to marvel at these magnificent creatures, creating unforgettable underwater experiences.
3. See the Strange Looking Dugong
The dugong, related to manatees, is found in the Ningaloo region. A day trip from Coral Bay offers opportunities to see these shy animals grazing on seagrass, providing a unique highlight for marine wildlife enthusiasts.
2. Swim with Whale Sharks
The whale shark, the biggest fish in the world, migrates to Ningaloo Reef between April and July, attracting visitors eager to swim alongside it. Regular tours from Exmouth offer exhilarating chances to encounter these gentle giants.
1. Humpback Whale
Since April 2016, selected operators offer swimming expeditions with humpback whales. Visitors can slip into the water at a safe distance, allowing these magnificent creatures to approach and offer a once-in-a-lifetime experience.
Western Australia is indeed a wildlife lover’s paradise. Consider adding these unforgettable encounters to your travel plans to truly experience the natural beauty of this vibrant region.
