Australia is a land of unique and diverse wildlife. With over 80% of its species found nowhere else in the world, it’s a wildlife lover’s paradise. From kangaroos, koalas, and eucalyptus-munching possums, to colorful parrots and curious wallabies, there’s an abundance of fauna to discover. In this post, we’ll be exploring the native wildlife of Australia and why it’s a must-see destination for nature lovers.

Kangaroos

Kangaroos are perhaps one of the most iconic animals in Australia. They’re found all over the country and are well-known for their powerful hind legs, large tail, and unique way of hopping. They’re also a symbol of Australia and are featured on the country’s coat of arms.

There are four species of kangaroos found in Australia: the red kangaroo, the eastern grey kangaroo, the western grey kangaroo, and the antilopine kangaroo. Red kangaroos are the largest marsupials in the world and can grow up to 6 feet in length and weigh over 200 pounds. They are well adapted to the harsh, arid interior of Australia and can go for long periods without water.

Eastern grey kangaroos are found along the eastern coastline and are slightly smaller than red kangaroos. They’re also less arid-adapted and are more commonly found in woodlands and forests. Western grey kangaroos are found in the western part of the country and are similar in size and appearance to eastern grey kangaroos. Antilopine kangaroos are found in the tropical north and are intermediate in size between red and grey kangaroos.

Koalas

Koalas are another iconic Australian marsupial. They’re best known for their sleepy, sleepy demeanor and their love of eucalyptus leaves. There’s something undeniably cute about these fuzzy creatures and they’re a must-see for anyone visiting Australia.

Koalas are found along the eastern coastline of Australia and are relatively sedentary animals. They spend most of their day sleeping in trees, only descending to the ground to move to another tree. Their diet is limited to eucalyptus leaves, which are toxic to most other animals. Koalas have a special digestive system that allows them to process the toxins in eucalyptus leaves and extract the nutrients they need.

Koalas are also known for their distinctive vocalizations, which they use to communicate with each other. They make a range of sounds, from grunts and snores to growls and screams, each with its own unique meaning.

Possums

Possums are a group of marsupials found all over Australia. They come in a range of sizes, from the small sugar glider, to the large and bushy-tailed brushtail possum. Possums are nocturnal animals and are most active at night. They’re also excellent climbers and use their sharp claws to climb trees and forage for food.

Brushtail possums are one of the most common possums in Australia and are found in a range of habitats, from forests and woodlands to urban areas. They’re known for their bushy tails and their ability to climb trees. Sugar gliders, on the other hand, are small, arboreal possums that are found in forests and woodlands. They’re named after their ability to glide through the air.