K'gari (Fraser Island) is a haven for wildlife enthusiasts, offering a diverse range of birds and animals that thrive in its unique
ecosystems. Here’s a guide to some of the wildlife you might encounter during your stay:
Birdlife
K'gari is a birdwatcher's paradise, with over 350 species of birds recorded on the island. Some of the highlights include:
- Wedge-tailed Eagle – Australia’s largest eagle, often seen soaring in the sky.
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Peregrine Falcon – Known for its incredible speed and hunting skills, these falcons can sometimes be spotted diving
down from great heights.
- Eastern Curlew – A large shorebird found along the beaches, particularly during the migration season.
- White-bellied Sea Eagle – A majestic bird often seen near coastal areas, hunting for fish.
- Osprey – Frequently found near the coastline, they are known for their dramatic fishing dives.
- Red-capped Plovers – Small shorebirds often found on the beach, feeding along the shoreline.
- Kookaburras – Known for their distinctive laughing call, kookaburras are common across the island.
- Australian Bustard – A large, ground-dwelling bird, often found in the open areas of the island.
- Magpie-lark – A black-and-white bird, often found around wetlands and coastal habitats.
- Silver Gull – Common along the beaches, these seagulls are often seen scavenging or flying overhead.
Mammals
K'gari is home to a variety of fascinating mammals, including:
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Dingos – Wild dogs unique to the island. They roam freely outside the dingo fence, but they are generally not a threat
if you follow the guidelines to stay safe.
- Swamp Wallabies – These smaller kangaroos are often spotted in the forests and grassland
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Short-beaked Echidna – These spiny, egg-laying mammals are sometimes seen in the more isolated, bushy parts of the
island.
- Flying Foxes – These large fruit bats are often spotted at dusk, hanging in the trees.
- Possums – Various species of possums live on the island, and they can sometimes be seen at night.
Reptiles
K'gari is home to many reptiles, including:
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Fraser Island Carpet Python – A large snake that can be found in the forests of the island. These are non-venomous and
rarely pose a threat.
- Saw-shelled Turtle – Often found in freshwater lakes.
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Marine Turtles – Fraser Island is a nesting site for several species of marine turtles, including the loggerhead
turtle, which can be spotted along the beaches during the nesting season.
- Green Tree Frog – Found near freshwater areas and known for its distinctive call.
- Common Blue-tongue Skink – These are often spotted in the bush or near the edges of forested areas.
Marine Life
The waters around K'gari are teeming with marine life. If you're exploring the beaches or nearby waters, you might see:
- Dolphins – Often spotted swimming close to the shore, especially around the eastern beaches.
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Whales – During migration season (June to November), humpback whales pass by the island on their journey.
- Manta Rays – Frequently seen in the waters surrounding the island.
- Sea Turtles – As mentioned, the island is a nesting site for marine turtles.
Insects
Although not as widely celebrated, there are also various fascinating insects on the island, such as:
- Dragonflies – Often seen around freshwater areas and wetlands.
- Butterflies – Including species like the Caper White and various types of Swallowtails.
- Beetles – Many types of beetles are found in the island's forests and woodlands.
Guidelines for Wildlife Viewing
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Respect wildlife: Please maintain a safe distance from all animals, particularly the dingoes. Avoid feeding them, as it can
alter their natural behavior.
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Stay safe: Follow all park guidelines and stay within designated areas to protect both yourself and the wildlife.
