Kangaroo Island Wildlife

Kangaroo Island kangaroo: No visit to KI is complete without encountering its namesake, the Kangaroo Island kangaroo. Shorter and stockier than their mainland cousins, this kangaroo species can be spotted grazing in open fields or bounding gracefully through the island’s vast wilderness.

Tammar wallaby: Another native marsupial found here is the Tammar Wallaby. With their distinctive reddish-brown fur and compact size, these wallabies are a common sight in the island’s coastal woodlands and walking trails.

Short-beaked echidna: One of only two egg-laying mammals in the world, Kangaroo Island is home to its own sub-species, the Short-beaked echidna. You may be fortunate enough to catch a glimpse of these fascinating creatures foraging for ants and termites in the island’s bushland. During their winter mating season, adult males demonstrate determination and commitment by forming orderly ‘echidna love trains’, hoping to be the last one standing behind a female echidna.

Little pygmy possum: With a size no larger than a thumb and weighing less than 10 grams, Pygmy Possums blend seamlessly into their surroundings, navigating the island’s dense vegetation with ease. As night falls, these nocturnal creatures emerge from their daytime hideouts, foraging for insects, nectar, and pollen under the veil of darkness.

Koala: The renowned symbol of Australian wildlife, the koala, can be found in select eucalyptus groves scattered across the island and Flinders Chase National Park. These arboreal marsupials spend much of their time dozing in the branches, occasionally stirring to nibble on eucalyptus leaves. For many, cuddling a koala is a bucket-list activity and the Kangaroo Island Wildlife Park offers just the chance. Guests can opt to visit the park as part of a Southern Ocean Lodge bespoke experience (additional charges apply).

A nocturnal tour to Hanson Bay Sanctuary unveils a world that thrives after dark. You can witness koalas at their most active and encounter other night-loving wildlife such as kangaroos, wallabies, possums, owls, bats, and echidnas and observe their natural behaviours up close. Southern Ocean Lodge offers guests the opportunity to discover KI’s nightlife during the Nocturnal Explorer excursion (additional charges apply) or book the Classic SOL package when staying three nights or more and enjoy the tour as an inclusion. Bonus!

Glossy Black cockatoo: One of the most striking avian residents is the Glossy Black cockatoo. With its sleek black plumage and distinctive red markings, this Endangered species can be observed feeding on their favourite food trees; she-oaks. Indeed, the Glossy Black cockatoo boasts various sub-groups, notably the Kangaroo Island variant, exclusively found on KI.

Yellow-tailed Black cockatoo: Another species of cockatoo found on Kangaroo Island is the Yellow-tailed Black. Recognisable by its raucous call and distinctive yellow markings on its tail, this large parrot plays a vital role in the island’s ecosystem as a seed disperser.

Hooded dotterel: Along the island’s sandy shores and coastal dunes, keen-eyed observers may spot the Hooded dotterel (also known as a plover), a small wader distinguished by its characteristic hood-like markings around its head. These birds breed on sandy beaches and coastal areas, constructing shallow scrapes in the sand where they lay their eggs, typically two eggs per clutch. Both parents share the responsibility of incubating the eggs and caring for the chicks.

Cape Barren goose: Kangaroo Island provides a vital habitat for Cape Barren geese, a large, pale-grey waterfowl with a distinctive fluoro greenish-yellow bill. These geese can often be seen foraging in coastal grasslands and salt marshes. Keep an eye out for these beautiful birds in Flinders Chase National Park, visited on the half day Wonders of Kangaroo Island, a signature experience included at Southern Ocean Lodge.

Scarlet robin: With its vibrant red breast and melodious song, the scarlet robin adds a splash of colour to Kangaroo Island’s woodlands and heathlands. Adept flycatchers, these tiny birds employ their keen hunting skills to capture insects from low to mid-level perches.

For an intimate encounter with the island’s avian predators, check out Raptor Domain’s captivating Birds of Prey presentation (additional charges apply), spotlighting the majestic wedge-tailed eagle, mysterious barn owl, and the unmistakable laughter of kookaburras.

Long-nosed fur seal: Admirals Arch serves as a gathering spot for Long-nosed and Australian fur seals, and occasionally Australian sea-lions. These sleek and agile predators can be spotted hunting for fish and squid in the island’s coastal waters and lounging on the rocks and pristine beaches.

Australian Sea-lion: The marine parks and rugged coastline of Kangaroo Island provides a sanctuary for the Australian sea-lion, one of the rarest seal species in the world. The Seal Bay experience is a must-do whilst at Southern Ocean Lodge. Take an excursion to Seal Bay Conservation Park, where a walk among the wild population of ‘locals’ on the beach offers an experience reminiscent of the Galapagos. You can observe these playful marine mammals basking on sandy beaches or frolicking in the surf, while keeping a respectful distance and honouring their natural habitat.

Southern Right whales: June heralds the arrival of Southern Right whales to the protected waters surrounding Kangaroo Island, where they journey annually until October before returning to their southern home in the Antarctic waters.

Rosenberg’s goanna: Among the reptilian inhabitants is Rosenberg’s goanna, a large monitor lizard with distinctive yellow and black markings. They are opportunistic hunters and scavengers, using their keen sense of smell and excellent vision to locate prey. These impressive predators play a crucial role in maintaining ecological balance of the island.

Experience the wonders of Kangaroo Island’s wildlife with Baillie Lodges at the renowned Southern Ocean Lodge. With more than one third of the island declared as conservation sanctuary or national park, visitors come face-to-face with Australia’s unique fauna.

For deeper immersion into the island’s natural splendour, the lodge offers a selection of top-tier private itineraries with Exceptional Kangaroo Island. Delve into the breathtaking landscape and engage with native wildlife from the comfort of a four-wheel drive, guided by expert guides who enrich the journey with their knowledge, complemented by gourmet food and wine in the heart of the wild isle.