Animals photographed on our NZ/Tassie/WA holiday late 2024

New Zealand

Kaikoura, located on New Zealand's South Island, is a renowned hotspot for observing humpback whales, particularly during their annual migration. These majestic marine mammals can be spotted in the deep waters off Kaikoura’s coast, which are rich in nutrients thanks to the nearby Hikurangi Trench. Known for their spectacular breaches and long, melodic songs, humpback whales visit Kaikoura primarily between June and August as they migrate between their Antarctic feeding grounds and tropical breeding waters.

Dusky dolphins (Lagenorhynchus obscurus) can be found all year round along the east coast of the South Island including Kaikoura, with some variation in location and habits between the summer and winter months. In the warmer months of October to May, the duskies will move inshore in the early morning each day to the southern side of the Kaikōura Peninsula. During the winter months of June to September the duskies are located further off shore and tend to range over a greater area of the coastline.

Tasmania

Wallabies in Tasmania are small to medium-sized marsupials, closely related to kangaroos. They are abundant across the island, thriving in diverse habitats like forests, grasslands, and coastal areas. Common species include Bennett's wallaby and the Tasmanian pademelon.

Wombats in Tasmania are sturdy, burrowing marsupials known for their thick fur, stocky build, and nocturnal habits. Found in forests, grasslands, and coastal areas, they primarily feed on grasses and roots. Tasmanian wombats are particularly noted for their slow metabolism, which helps them thrive in diverse habitats across the island.

The platypus is a unique and fascinating semi-aquatic mammal that can be easily found in the Tasmanian Arboretum, a botanical and wildlife sanctuary located near Devonport. Known for its distinctive features, including a duck-like bill, webbed feet, and beaver-like tail, the platypus is often spotted in the Arboretum's peaceful ponds and streams, particularly around the Founders' Lake. 

Fur seals around Tasmania, primarily the Australian fur seal (Arctocephalus pusillus doriferus), are a common sight along the region's rugged coastlines. These marine mammals are known for their dense, waterproof fur and playful behavior. They inhabit rocky shores, islands, and coastal waters, where they rest, breed, and forage. The fur seals feed on a diet of fish, squid, and other marine organisms, showcasing their skill as agile swimmers.

Western Australia

Kangaroos are iconic marsupials commonly found in Western Australia, thriving in diverse habitats from arid outback regions to coastal areas. Known for their powerful hind legs and distinctive hopping, they are an integral part of the state's wildlife, often spotted in national parks and rural landscapes. Species like the Red Kangaroo, the largest, and smaller Western Grey Kangaroos are particularly prevalent.

Quokka, a small marsupial native to Western Australia, is renowned for its friendly demeanor and "smiling" expression. Found primarily on Rottnest Island, these herbivorous creatures are nocturnal and thrive in shrublands. Quokkas are a popular tourist attraction and symbolize the unique biodiversity of Australia.

Koalas in Western Australia are primarily found in wildlife parks and sanctuaries, as they are not native to this region. These iconic marsupials are more commonly associated with the eastern and southern parts of Australia, where they inhabit eucalyptus forests and woodlands.

Oblong turtles, also known as southwestern snake-necked turtles (Chelodina colliei), are freshwater turtles native to Western Australia. Recognized by their elongated necks and oblong-shaped carapaces, they inhabit rivers, swamps, and wetlands. These turtles are adept swimmers and feed on aquatic invertebrates and small fish.

Shinglebacks, also known as bobtail lizards or Tiliqua rugosa, are a type of large, slow-moving skink native to Western Australia. Recognizable by their distinctive blue tongues and heavily armored, shingle-like scales, these reptiles are often seen in arid and semi-arid regions. Shinglebacks are herbivorous, feeding on plants, flowers, and fruits, but they may also eat insects.

King skinks (Egernia kingii) are large, robust lizards native to Western Australia, often found in coastal and rocky habitats. They can grow up to 55 cm in length and are known for their dark, glossy scales and powerful build. These omnivorous skinks feed on a variety of foods, including plants, insects, and small animals. King skinks are diurnal and are commonly seen basking in the sun, but they can also retreat to burrows or crevices for protection.

Tiger snakes in Western Australia are highly venomous, medium-to-large snakes known for their distinctive banded pattern resembling a tiger. They inhabit wetlands, riverbanks, and coastal regions, feeding on frogs, birds, and small mammals. While their colours can vary, they are typically brown, olive, or black with lighter bands.