Animal Encounters

West Australia provides a unique opportunity for people wanting to have a cosy encounter with native animals. Strange, beautiful and sometimes dangerous creatures can be experienced up close either in their natural habitats, or at one of many specialised animal centres.

Take the ferry from the city to Perth Zoo, which showcases both local and exotic animals including some of Australia’s rarest species. Stroll through the Australian Bushwalk, or creep into the dark world of Australia’s night-time creatures in the Nocturnal House. The African Savannah exhibit contains the some of the zoo’s more exotic inhabitants, while the walk-in enclosures provide an intimate setting to come into contact with colourful birds or cheeky Cotton-top monkeys.

Hand feed baby kangaroos, emus and deer at one of West Australia’s wildlife parks. Great for the whole family, parents can relax in a cafe or picnic area, while the kids are busy at an interactive petting zoo.

Get friendly with some of West Australia’s more dangerous residents. View deadly snakes from behind safe glass, or have your photo taken while holding a non-venomous python. For a larger than life reptile encounter, travel north to Broome to see saltwater crocs of up to five metres in length!

Have an offshore animal experience and visit one of W.A.’s islands by ferry or foot. Penguin Island can be reached by walking across a natural sandbar, and provides the chance to observe the state’s largest colony of little penguins in their natural habitat. Or you can take the Quokka Walk on Rottnest Island for a tour of the furry creature’s favourite spots.