Animal Encounters

Queensland’s rainforest environment provides the perfect climate for tropical creatures to call it their home.

Go troppo on your visit to Queensland at Cairns Tropical Zoo. The zoo features mostly Australian animals, with a few foreign inhabitants as well. Many of the animals can be hand fed, including birds, kangaroos and wallabies, or you can confront your fears by petting live snakes and crocodiles!

Queensland birds are among the more lively inhabitants of the state, with 80% of Australia’s species represented here. Create a DIY bird watching experience by roaming the rainforests or travelling to the Fraser Coast. You may be lucky enough to glimpse a Crimson Rosella, hear the deceptive sounds of a Lyrebird or stumble across the nest of an Australian Brush-turkey.

Be touched by one of the 1500 butterfly species native to Queensland. Among the local residents are the vibrant Ulysses butterfly, and the giant Australian Birdwing. These enchanting insects are attracted to bright colours, so wear something colourful for a chance to be ‘landed on’!

Wildlife parks and privately owned zoos are a great way to see some of Australia’s rare or unusual native animals. Be a part of the nightlife on a nocturnal tour and see bats, gliders and bilbys, or meet the only egg-laying mammal on earth – the Platypus.