Wilsons Promontory National Park is a wildlife haven that is waiting to be explored on our day trip from Melbourne.
Located in the southernmost part of mainland Australia, Wilsons Promontory National Park is a must-visit destination because of its stunning landscapes, rich history, and vibrant wildlife. The national park boasts a diverse range of habitats that support a vast array of flora and fauna. It’s therefore a must-visit destination for nature enthusiasts and wildlife enthusiasts alike. In this blog, we’ll delve into the wonderful world of wildlife in Wilsons Promontory National Park to show you what makes it so special.
A Rich Diversity of Wildlife
Wilsons Promontory National Park is home to a diverse array of Australian wildlife species, including marsupials, reptiles, birds, and marine mammals. Some of the most notable species include the eastern grey kangaroo, swamp wallaby, echidna, common wombat, and the black cockatoo. For bird-lovers, the park is a heaven, with over 150 species of birds recorded in the area, including the largest Australian bird – the emu, magnificent wedge-tailed eagle and the colourful rainbow lorikeet.
All about Kangaroos
Kangaroos are perhaps the most iconic Australian animals, with many visitors to Australia hoping to catch a glimpse. These are the largest of all marsupials and they travel and feed in groups known as mobs. The mobs are composed of between five and 20 kangaroos, and are generally dominated by the largest male. This male will breed with the females and the gestation period for kangaroos is about five weeks. After this the females give birth to a single baby, known as a joey. Just a few centimetres in length, the newborn joey must crawl through its mother’s fur and into her pouch where it will continue growing for several months.
All about Wombats
Many visitors to Australia desire to see the unique and quirky local animals and the wombat fits the bill. Wombats are a close relative of koalas. However, while koalas live up in the eucalyptus trees, wombats live on the ground and burrow into the earth for a safe, dry place to sleep.
There are three species of wombats. The common wombats are distinguished by their fur colour which can be various shades between grey and black. The southern hairy-nosed wombats are distinguished by their nasal bone which is longer than their frontal bone. The northern hairy-nosed wombats have a wider muzzle than other species and are generally heavier in weight as well.
All about Emus
Emus are up there with kangaroos and koalas when it comes to iconic Australian animals. Australia’s famous bird is the second-largest living bird in the world after the ostrich. Emus have small wings but they cannot fly, however they can run very fast. Their long, powerful legs are what allow them to run at speeds of up to 50km per hour.
Emu pairs can stay together for up to five months, after which females lay large, green eggs. The males then incubate the eggs for about eight weeks. During this time they won’t eat, drink or leave the nest. They therefore can lose up to a third of their body weight while incubating eggs.
Marine Wildlife at Wilsons Promontory
In addition to the rich terrestrial wildlife, the national park is also renowned for its marine life. The Prom’s stunning beaches and bays provide a habitat for a variety of marine mammals, such as seals, whales, and dolphins. Every year, between June and September, southern right whale visit the ocean surrounding Wilsons Promontory to mate and calve. During this time, you might be lucky enough to witness the majestic creatures breaching and splashing in the waters.
Protected Habitats at Wilsons Promontory
The rich diversity of wildlife in the National Park is due to the protected habitats that make up the park. The lush forests, mountains and rugged coastal areas, each provide homes and resources for the various species that call the park home. In particular, the park’s coastal habitats are critical for many marine species, providing a protected place to rest, breed, and feed.
Conservation Efforts at Wilsons Promontory
The Victorian government has recognised the importance of preserving the natural heritage of Wilsons Promontory National Park, and as such, has implemented several conservation initiatives. These initiatives to protect the Prom’s wildlife and habitats include controlling feral animal populations, managing fire regimes, and monitoring wildlife populations.
In conclusion, Wilsons Promontory National Park is a stunning destination that offers a wealth of opportunities for wildlife watching and nature appreciation. If you’re a curious traveller who wants to experience the majestic wildlife of Australia, this park is sure to leave a lasting impression.
Discovering Wilsons Promontory National Park with Go West Tours
For those looking to experience the beauty and wildlife of Wilsons Promontory, a day tour is a great option. Based in Melbourne, we offer a comprehensive day tour of the park, showcasing its diverse landscapes and rich Australian wildlife. Travelling with an experienced guide will ensure you enjoy a truly unforgettable experience.
We are also committed to sustainability and responsible tourism practices. Therefore, during our tour we aim to minimise our impact on the park’s natural habitats and wildlife. We encourage our guests to do the same.
Written by: Leah Furey – Digital Content Coordinator @gowest.com.au
