Monotremes
Monotremes are an anomaly within the animal kingdom, as they are mammals that lay eggs and have no teats. The Short-beaked Echidna is the only mammal found across the entire Australian continent, able to adapt to snowy conditions through to the harsh arid deserts. Echidnas are famous for their sharp spines, however, they are also covered with fur. In Tasmania, the Short-beaked Echidna can look markedly different as their fur is considerably longer and blends in with the spines. Short-beaked echidnas can flick their tongue up to 100 times per minute as they lap up ants and termites with great skill. Some of the best regions for spotting Short-beaked Echidnas include East Gippsland, Kangaroo Island and Tasmania (including Maria Island).
The Platypus is Australia’s other monotreme, found in freshwater systems on the eastern coast of Australia. Platypuses are famed for their bills, which are full of electroreceptors that assist it finding molluscs, crustaceans and other invertebrates in murky water. They are covered with a layer of external hair and thick fur, that keeps dry even when under water. Interestingly, mature males develop poisonous spurs on their rear legs, thought to be used to fend off other males when fighting over breeding territories. Platypuses can be found throughout Tasmania, East Gippsland, Atherton Tablelands and the Southern Highlands, but they are generally very shy and elusive creatures. Dawn or dusk are the best times to spot this amazing creature.
Search for tours including Monotremes, using the seasonal viewing opportunities calendar further down the page or find out more at the tour links below:
Platypus: Tablelands & Crater Lakes, 6-8 Day Tasmania's Wildlife & Wilderness, 4 Day Private Tour Tasmania Wildlife Encounter, East Gippsland Wildlife Journey, Southern Highlands Wildlife Day Tour
Echidnas: Kangaroos and Koalas in the Wild, Great Ocean Road, East Gippsland Wildlife Journey, Kangaroo Island In Style, Flinders Chase Focus, Island Life, Southern Highlands Wildlife Day Tour, 6-8 Day Tasmania's Wildlife & Wilderness, 4 Day Private Tour Tasmania Wildlife Encounter, The Maria Island Walk
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5 Day Tasmanian Wildlife Encounter
From $2,205 USD
5 days/4 nights
5 Day Tasmanian Wildlife Encounter
From $2,205 USD
5 days/4 nights
Tasmania, Australia’s island state, provides a rare opportunity to encounter unique and endemic wildlife. Renowned as a prime area for marsupial spotting, Tasmania is a crucial habitat for many species, including quolls, kangaroos, wallabies, wombats and the most famous resident, the Tasmanian Devil.
Experience a mix of beautiful eucalypt forests,... -
Murray River Walk
From $2,099 USD
4 days/3 nights
Murray River Walk
From $2,099 USD
4 days/3 nights
Immerse yourself in four easy days of hiking along Australia’s greatest river. Exploring this river oasis that brings life to the outback, friendly guides will share the region's incredible birdlife, marsupials and reptiles.
Small groups of maximum 10 guests and 2 guides, explore diverse and beautiful landscapes, sharing stories of... -
The Maria Island Walk
From $1,920 USD
4 days/3 nights
The Maria Island Walk
From $1,920 USD
4 days/3 nights
This four day guided walk across magnificent Maria Island, combines intimate wildlife encounters, fascinating history, pristine white sand beaches, and locally sourced gourmet food.
Small groups of maximum 10 guests and 2 guides, will explore the World Heritage Listed island with gentle walks by day and enjoy elegant private accommodation... -
5 Day Tasmania's Western Wilderness
From $2,160 USD
5 days/4 nights
5 Day Tasmania's Western Wilderness
From $2,160 USD
5 days/4 nights
Explore Tasmania’s incredible alpine regions as well as the wild and rugged west-coast. Visit the famous Cradle Mountain National Park, get close to our icon animal, the Tassie Devil and feel the sea breeze while exploring quaint fishermen villages and old mining towns.
Wildlife highlights include the opportunity to see...
Viewing opportunities that include monotremes
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January,February,December, East Gippsland
East Gippsland - Summer Sightings for Land Mammals & Marsupials
Marsupials Kangaroos & Macropods: Eastern Grey Kangaroo*, Red-necked Wallaby*, Swamp Wallaby* | Koala* | Wombats: Common Wombat* | Rat Kangaroos: Long-nosed Potoroo | Brushtail Possums & Cuscuses: Common Brushtail Possum* | Gliding Possums: Yellow-bellied Glider, Sugar Glider, Feathertail Glider | Ringtail Possums & Greater Gliders: Common Ringtail Possum, Greater Glider | Carnivorous Marsupials: Dusky Antechinus | Bandicoots & Bilbies: Southern Brown Bandicoot, Long-nosed Bandicoot
Monotremes Platypus* | Short-beaked Echidna*
Placental Mammals Bats: Grey-headed Flying Fox* | Rodents: Bush Rat, Swamp Rat, Water Rat (Rakali), Smoky Mouse
* Denotes sighting chance as high or common
How to find these species
"Grey-headed Flying Foxes are large fruit-eating bats that roost in camps of thousands of individuals during the day near Bairnsdale, which provides great viewing of their diverse social interactions. Most of their babies are born in spring, and by summer the juveniles are quite noticeable, clinging under their mothers arm. Swamp Wallabies prefer denser vegetation of wet eucalypt forests or heaths at this time of year, with their beautiful dark brown or almost black fur a delight to see. The warm evenings also provide the opportunity to see possums and if we are lucky, Yellow-bellied and Greater Gliders in the mature eucalypt forests. These remarkable creatures have a membrane of skin from their wrists or elbows to their ankles, enabling them to glide up to 100 between trees, as they search for insects and nectar to feed upon."Roger Smith, Tour Guide
Suggested tour: East Gippsland Wildlife Journey
Duration: 4 Days/3 Nights
Type: Shared, PrivateVenturing across East Gippsland's magnificent lush rainforests, coastal heathlands, giant eucalypt groves, white sandy beaches and pristine rivers and estuaries, this four day immersive adventure offers you encounters with an incredible array of species.
Tours in East Gippsland related to Monotremes
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September,October,November, East Gippsland
East Gippsland - Spring Sightings for Land Mammals & Marsupials
Marsupials Kangaroos & Macropods: Eastern Grey Kangaroo*, Red-necked Wallaby*, Swamp Wallaby* | Koala* | Wombats: Common Wombat* | Rat Kangaroos: Long-nosed Potoroo | Brushtail Possums & Cuscuses: Common Brushtail Possum* | Gliding Possums: Yellow-bellied Glider, Sugar Glider, Feathertail Glider | Ringtail Possums & Greater Gliders: Common Ringtail Possum, Greater Glider | Carnivorous Marsupials: Dusky Antechinus | Bandicoots & Bilbies: Southern Brown Bandicoot, Long-nosed Bandicoot
Monotremes Platypus* | Short-beaked Echidna*
Placental Mammals Bats: Grey-headed Flying Fox* | Rodents: Bush Rat, Swamp Rat, Water Rat (Rakali), Smoky Mouse
* Denotes sighting chance as high or common
How to find these species
"The Common Wombat is a resident of the lush East Gippsland forests, with the cool nights in Spring an ideal time to see them. Short-beaked Echidnas are also active at this time, with November being the peak viewing time to see these intriguing animals across East Gippsland. Cool nights and mild sunny days make for perfect conditions for viewing echidnas in the daytime, as they are an animal that cannot tolerate high temperatures. They hibernate in winter and usually breed in spring. Females lay a single egg into a simple pouch in the abdomen about four weeks after mating."Roger Smith, Tour Guide
Suggested tour: East Gippsland Wildlife Journey
Duration: 4 Days/3 Nights
Type: Shared, PrivateVenturing across East Gippsland's magnificent lush rainforests, coastal heathlands, giant eucalypt groves, white sandy beaches and pristine rivers and estuaries, this four day immersive adventure offers you encounters with an incredible array of species.
Tours in East Gippsland related to Monotremes
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Koala
March,April,May, East Gippsland
East Gippsland - Autumn Sightings for Land Mammals & Marsupials
Marsupials Kangaroos & Macropods: Eastern Grey Kangaroo*, Red-necked Wallaby*, Swamp Wallaby* | Koala* | Wombats: Common Wombat* | Rat Kangaroos: Long-nosed Potoroo | Brushtail Possums & Cuscuses: Common Brushtail Possum* | Gliding Possums: Yellow-bellied Glider, Sugar Glider, Feathertail Glider | Ringtail Possums & Greater Gliders: Common Ringtail Possum, Greater Glider | Carnivorous Marsupials: Dusky Antechinus | Bandicoots & Bilbies: Southern Brown Bandicoot, Long-nosed Bandicoot
Monotremes Platypus* | Short-beaked Echidna*
Placental Mammals Bats: Grey-headed Flying Fox* | Rodents: Bush Rat, Swamp Rat, Water Rat (Rakali), Smoky Mouse
* Denotes sighting chance as high or common
Suggested tour: East Gippsland Wildlife Journey
Duration: 4 Days/3 Nights
Type: Shared, PrivateVenturing across East Gippsland's magnificent lush rainforests, coastal heathlands, giant eucalypt groves, white sandy beaches and pristine rivers and estuaries, this four day immersive adventure offers you encounters with an incredible array of species.
Tours in East Gippsland related to Monotremes
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Southern Hairy-nosed Wombat
January,February,December, Eyre Peninsula
Eyre Peninsula - Summer Sightings for Land Mammals & Marsupials
Marsupials Kangaroos & Macropods: Western Grey Kangaroo* | Koala* | Wombats: Southern Hairy-nosed Wombat | Brushtail Possums & Cuscuses: Common Brushtail Possum | Pygmy-Possums: Western Pygmy-Possum | Carnivorous Marsupials: Little Long-tailed Dunnart
Monotremes Short-beaked Echidna
Placental Mammals Bats: Greater Long-eared Bat, Lesser Long-eared Bat, Southern Forest Bat, Chocolate Wattled Bat, Gould's Wattled Bat, Lesser Long-eared Bat | Rodents: Bush Rat, Greater Stick-nest Rat
* Denotes sighting chance as high or common
Suggested tour: Eyre Peninsula Wildlife & Ocean Encounters
Duration: 3 Days
Type: Small group or private
Departs: On requestThis three-day adventure combines the best terrestrial and marine protected areas across the region including the opportunity to swim with wild Sea-Lions and Bottlenose Dolphins, see Emus, wild Koalas and Kangaroos and the Rosenbergs Goanna.
Tours in Eyre Peninsula related to Monotremes
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Western Grey Kangaroo
March,April,May, Eyre Peninsula
Eyre Peninsula - Autumn Sightings for Land Mammals & Marsupials
Marsupials Kangaroos & Macropods: Western Grey Kangaroo* | Koala* | Wombats: Southern Hairy-nosed Wombat | Brushtail Possums & Cuscuses: Common Brushtail Possum | Pygmy-Possums: Western Pygmy-Possum | Carnivorous Marsupials: Little Long-tailed Dunnart
Monotremes Short-beaked Echidna
Placental Mammals Bats: Greater Long-eared Bat, Lesser Long-eared Bat, Southern Forest Bat, Chocolate Wattled Bat, Gould's Wattled Bat, Lesser Long-eared Bat | Rodents: Bush Rat, Greater Stick-nest Rat
* Denotes sighting chance as high or common
Suggested tour: Eyre Peninsula Wildlife & Ocean Encounters
Duration: 3 Days
Type: Small group or private
Departs: On requestThis three-day adventure combines the best terrestrial and marine protected areas across the region including the opportunity to swim with wild Sea-Lions and Bottlenose Dolphins, see Emus, wild Koalas and Kangaroos and the Rosenbergs Goanna.
Tours in Eyre Peninsula related to Monotremes
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Western Grey Kangaroo
June,July,August, Eyre Peninsula
Eyre Peninsula - Winter Sightings for Land Mammals & Marsupials
Marsupials Kangaroos & Macropods: Western Grey Kangaroo* | Koala* | Wombats: Southern Hairy-nosed Wombat | Brushtail Possums & Cuscuses: Common Brushtail Possum | Pygmy-Possums: Western Pygmy-Possum | Carnivorous Marsupials: Little Long-tailed Dunnart
Monotremes Short-beaked Echidna
Placental Mammals Bats: Greater Long-eared Bat, Lesser Long-eared Bat, Southern Forest Bat, Chocolate Wattled Bat, Gould's Wattled Bat, Lesser Long-eared Bat | Rodents: Bush Rat, Greater Stick-nest Rat
* Denotes sighting chance as high or common
Suggested tour: Port Lincoln Wildlife Encounters
Duration: 2 Days
Type: Small group or private
Departs: On requestThis incredible two day adventure combines the best terrestrial and marine protected areas across the region including Lincoln National Park, Coffin Bay National Park, Big Swamp, Mikkira Station and Mount Dutton Bay Conservation Park.
Tours in Eyre Peninsula related to Monotremes
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Koala
September,October,November, Eyre Peninsula
Eyre Peninsula - Spring Sightings for Land Mammals & Marsupials
Marsupials Kangaroos & Macropods: Western Grey Kangaroo* | Koala* | Wombats: Southern Hairy-nosed Wombat | Brushtail Possums & Cuscuses: Common Brushtail Possum | Pygmy-Possums: Western Pygmy-Possum | Carnivorous Marsupials: Little Long-tailed Dunnart
Monotremes Short-beaked Echidna
Placental Mammals Bats: Greater Long-eared Bat, Lesser Long-eared Bat, Southern Forest Bat, Chocolate Wattled Bat, Gould's Wattled Bat, Lesser Long-eared Bat | Rodents: Bush Rat, Greater Stick-nest Rat
* Denotes sighting chance as high or common
Suggested tour: Eyre Peninsula Wildlife & Ocean Encounters
Duration: 3 Days
Type: Small group or private
Departs: On requestThis three-day adventure combines the best terrestrial and marine protected areas across the region including the opportunity to swim with wild Sea-Lions and Bottlenose Dolphins, see Emus, wild Koalas and Kangaroos and the Rosenbergs Goanna.
Tours in Eyre Peninsula related to Monotremes
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January,February,December, Kangaroo Island
Kangaroo Island - Summer Sightings for Land Mammals & Marsupials
Marsupials Kangaroos & Macropods: Kangaroo Island Kangaroo*, Tammar Wallaby* | Koala* | Brushtail Possums & Cuscuses: Common Brushtail Possum* | Pygmy-Possums: Western Pygmy-Possum, Little Pygmy-Possum | Carnivorous Marsupials: Kangaroo Island (Sooty) Dunnart | Bandicoots & Bilbies: Southern Brown Bandicoot
Monotremes Platypus | Short-beaked Echidna*
Placental Mammals Bats: Yellow-bellied Sheathtailed Bat, Little Mastiff Bat, White Striped Mastiff Bat, Chocolate Wattled Bat, Gould's Wattled Bat, Lesser Long-eared Bat | Rodents: Bush Rat, Swamp Rat
* Denotes sighting chance as high or common
How to find these species
"During the warm conditions in Summer, Kangaroo Island Kangaroos switch to being more active in cooler mornings and later in the day, so on warm days we search through areas of deep shade as they rest. Compared to their Western Grey cousins on the Australian mainland, Kangaroo Island Kangaroos are shorter, stockier, have luxurious chocolate brown fur with black tips (ears/feet/paws/tail). Koalas are active across the island as it is breeding season, with the deep and echoing calls from males being audible across the eucalypt forests."Blair Wickham, Tour Guide
Suggested tour: Kangaroo Island In Style
Duration: 2 Days
Type: Small group or private
Departs: DailyDiscover what makes Kangaroo Island such a celebrated region, as you experience the Island's history, ecology, landscape, contemporary lifestyle, regional produce and incredible wildlife offerings. Key species regularly encountered are Koalas, Tammar Wallabies, Kangaroo Island Kangaroos, endangered Glossy Black Cockatoos, Short-beaked Echidnas, Australian Sea-lions, Long-nosed Fur-seals and a variety of bush birds, shorebirds and seabirds.
Tours in Kangaroo Island related to Monotremes
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Kangaroo Island Kangaroo
March,April,May, Kangaroo Island
Kangaroo Island - Autumn Sightings for Land Mammals & Marsupials
Marsupials Kangaroos & Macropods: Kangaroo Island Kangaroo*, Tammar Wallaby* | Koala* | Brushtail Possums & Cuscuses: Common Brushtail Possum* | Pygmy-Possums: Western Pygmy-Possum, Little Pygmy-Possum | Carnivorous Marsupials: Kangaroo Island (Sooty) Dunnart | Bandicoots & Bilbies: Southern Brown Bandicoot
Monotremes Platypus | Short-beaked Echidna*
Placental Mammals Bats: Yellow-bellied Sheathtailed Bat, Little Mastiff Bat, White Striped Mastiff Bat, Chocolate Wattled Bat, Gould's Wattled Bat, Lesser Long-eared Bat | Rodents: Bush Rat, Swamp Rat
* Denotes sighting chance as high or common
How to find these species
"Young Tammar Wallabies are weaned off their mothers and form their own social groups. Normally timid and unapproachable, there are several places on the island where repeated visits with consistent quiet presence has lead to a level of tolerance for our groups. This allows for excellent photographic and behavioral observation opportunities. This is also an excellent time to see Kangaroo Island Kangaroo joeys following their mothers around, having left the pouches permanently. Common Brushtail Possums usually have one joey at a time in Autumn. After birth, joeys spend around 120 days suckling in their mother’s pouch and can be seen riding on their mother’s back until they are fully weaned."Blair Wickham, Tour Guide
Suggested tour: Kangaroo Island In Style
Duration: 2 Days
Type: Small group or private
Departs: DailyDiscover what makes Kangaroo Island such a celebrated region, as you experience the Island's history, ecology, landscape, contemporary lifestyle, regional produce and incredible wildlife offerings. Key species regularly encountered are Koalas, Tammar Wallabies, Kangaroo Island Kangaroos, endangered Glossy Black Cockatoos, Short-beaked Echidnas, Australian Sea-lions, Long-nosed Fur-seals and a variety of bush birds, shorebirds and seabirds.
Tours in Kangaroo Island related to Monotremes
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June,July,August, Kangaroo Island
Kangaroo Island - Winter Sightings for Land Mammals & Marsupials
Marsupials Kangaroos & Macropods: Kangaroo Island Kangaroo*, Tammar Wallaby* | Koala* | Brushtail Possums & Cuscuses: Common Brushtail Possum* | Pygmy-Possums: Western Pygmy-Possum, Little Pygmy-Possum | Carnivorous Marsupials: Kangaroo Island (Sooty) Dunnart | Bandicoots & Bilbies: Southern Brown Bandicoot
Monotremes Platypus | Short-beaked Echidna*
Placental Mammals Bats: Yellow-bellied Sheathtailed Bat, Little Mastiff Bat, White Striped Mastiff Bat, Chocolate Wattled Bat, Gould's Wattled Bat, Lesser Long-eared Bat | Rodents: Bush Rat, Swamp Rat
* Denotes sighting chance as high or common
How to find these species
"Winter is a wonderful time to be viewing Kangaroo Island's terrestial mammals and marsupials, with the first Kangaroo Island Kangaroo and Tammar Wallaby joeys of the season poking their heads out of mum's pouch. On the monotreme front, if you're lucky, you might get to witness the occasional Short-beaked Echidna 'train', where one female is pursued in single file by up to 10 males hoping to mate with her. That's one of my most memorable wildlife encounters!"Blair Wickham, Tour Guide
Suggested tour: Kangaroo Island In Style
Duration: 2 Days
Type: Small group or private
Departs: Daily
Discover what makes Kangaroo Island such a celebrated region, as you experience the Island's history, ecology, landscape, contemporary lifestyle, regional produce and incredible wildlife offerings. Key species regularly encountered are Koalas, Tammar Wallabies, Kangaroo Island Kangaroos, endangered Glossy Black Cockatoos, Short-beaked Echidnas, Australian Sea-lions, Long-nosed Fur-seals and a variety of bush birds, shorebirds and seabirds.
Full ItineraryTours in Kangaroo Island related to Monotremes
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September,October,November, Kangaroo Island
Kangaroo Island - Spring Sightings for Land Mammals & Marsupials
Marsupials Kangaroos & Macropods: Kangaroo Island Kangaroo*, Tammar Wallaby* | Koala* | Brushtail Possums & Cuscuses: Common Brushtail Possum* | Pygmy-Possums: Western Pygmy-Possum, Little Pygmy-Possum | Carnivorous Marsupials: Kangaroo Island (Sooty) Dunnart | Bandicoots & Bilbies: Southern Brown Bandicoot
Monotremes Platypus | Short-beaked Echidna*
Placental Mammals Bats: Yellow-bellied Sheathtailed Bat, Little Mastiff Bat, White Striped Mastiff Bat, Chocolate Wattled Bat, Gould's Wattled Bat, Lesser Long-eared Bat | Rodents: Bush Rat, Swamp Rat
* Denotes sighting chance as high or common
How to find these species
"Spring is the time when kangaroo joeys are seen emerging from the pouch for the first time, often seen across the island's pastures. Kangaroo Island Kangaroos are quite sociable and move as a mob with female young staying with mum to help out with younger joeys. Koala mating begins to occur from September onwards until March. Males are very territorial and will guard their small harem of females from rivals. After the cooler conditions of winter, Short-beaked Echidnas will feast upon eat large amounts insects and larvae during Spring."Blair Wickham, Tour Guide
Suggested tour: Kangaroo Island In Style
Duration: 2 Days
Type: Small group or private
Departs: DailyDiscover what makes Kangaroo Island such a celebrated region, as you experience the Island's history, ecology, landscape, contemporary lifestyle, regional produce and incredible wildlife offerings. Key species regularly encountered are Koalas, Tammar Wallabies, Kangaroo Island Kangaroos, endangered Glossy Black Cockatoos, Short-beaked Echidnas, Australian Sea-lions, Long-nosed Fur-seals and a variety of bush birds, shorebirds and seabirds.
Tours in Kangaroo Island related to Monotremes
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January,February,December, Maria Island
Maria Island - Summer Sightings for Land Mammals & Marsupials
Marsupials Kangaroos & Macropods: Forester Kangaroo*, Bennett's Wallaby*, Tasmanian Pademelon* | Wombats: Common Wombat* | Rat Kangaroos: Tasmanian Bettong, Long-nosed Potoroo | Brushtail Possums & Cuscuses: Common Brushtail Possum* Pygmy-Possums: Little Pygmy-Possum, Eastern Pygmy-Possum | Carnivorous Marsupials: Tasmanian Devil | Bandicoots & Bilbies: Southern Brown Bandicoot
Monotremes Short-beaked Echidna
Placental Mammals Rodents: Swamp Rat, Water Rat (Rakali)
* Denotes sighting chance as high or common
How to find these species
"Maria Island is one of the hotspots in Australia to view Common Wombats. Growing to 20-30kg, Tasmania has it’s own subspecies, with this adept burrowing mammal seen in significant concentrations around all the former farming pastures on Maria, especially across Darlington at Return Point.There are two wallabies found on Maria Island. The Bennett’s Wallaby has slightly different adaptations compared with its mainland cousin, the Red-necked Wallaby, with longer, darker and shaggier fur. Breeding typically commences late in the summer between February and April. Tasmanian Pademelons can also be spotted in or close to pockets of dense undergrowth."
Ben Brown, General Manager Operations
Suggested Tour: The Maria Island Walk
Duration: 4 Days/3 Nights
Type: SharedAvailable: October - late April
This four day guided walk across magnificent Maria Island, combines intimate wildlife encounters, fascinating history, pristine white sand beaches, and locally sourced gourmet food.
Tours in Maria Island related to Monotremes
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March,April,May, Maria Island
Maria Island - Autumn Sightings for Land Mammals & Marsupials
Marsupials Kangaroos & Macropods: Forester Kangaroo*, Bennett's Wallaby*, Tasmanian Pademelon* | Wombats: Common Wombat* | Rat Kangaroos: Tasmanian Bettong, Long-nosed Potoroo | Brushtail Possums & Cuscuses: Common Brushtail Possum* Pygmy-Possums: Little Pygmy-Possum, Eastern Pygmy-Possum | Carnivorous Marsupials: Tasmanian Devil | Bandicoots & Bilbies: Southern Brown Bandicoot
Monotremes Short-beaked Echidna
Placental Mammals Rodents: Swamp Rat, Water Rat (Rakali)
* Denotes sighting chance as high or common
How to find these species
"The island’s population of Tasmanian Devils typically breed in March, with their young born in April after a 21 day gestation. Found only in Tasmania, they are the world’s largest marsupial carnivore and are successfully breeding across the island after being introduced in 2013.
Common Wombats are abundant across the island, with it typical to see them grazing during the day in the open pastures. Interestingly, Tasmanian Devils are know to use wombat burrows around this time, as den sites for their young. The Tasmanian Pademelon feeds on a wide variety of plants, from herbs, green shoots and grass, to some nectar-bearing flowers whilst the grasslands provide fantastic daytime viewing of Forester Kangaroos, Red-necked Wallabies and occasionally, the Short-beaked Echidna."
Ben Brown, General Manager Operations
Suggested Tour: The Maria Island Walk
Duration: 4 Days/3 Nights
Type: SharedAvailable: October - late April
This four day guided walk across magnificent Maria Island, combines intimate wildlife encounters, fascinating history, pristine white sand beaches, and locally sourced gourmet food.
Tours in Maria Island related to Monotremes
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September,October,November, Maria Island
Maria Island - Spring Sightings for Land Mammals & Marsupials
Marsupials Kangaroos & Macropods: Forester Kangaroo*, Bennett's Wallaby*, Tasmanian Pademelon* | Wombats: Common Wombat* | Rat Kangaroos: Tasmanian Bettong, Long-nosed Potoroo | Brushtail Possums & Cuscuses: Common Brushtail Possum* Pygmy-Possums: Little Pygmy-Possum, Eastern Pygmy-Possum | Carnivorous Marsupials: Tasmanian Devil | Bandicoots & Bilbies: Southern Brown Bandicoot
Monotremes Short-beaked Echidna
Placental Mammals Rodents: Swamp Rat, Water Rat (Rakali)
* Denotes sighting chance as high or common
How to find these species
"The Spring time is a peak season for seeing the numerous baby marsupials as they leave the pouch or dens to become more independent. Forester Kangaroos are easy to spot on the airstrip and pastures at Darlington, where gregarious groups of up to ten individuals commonly graze.
Tasmanian Pademelons and Bennett’s Wallabies also venture into the clearings in the late afternoon and evening, but prefer to reside in the thick undergrowth by day. The Tasmanian Pademelon will feed on a wide variety of plants, from herbs, green shoots and grass, to some nectar-bearing flowers. Common Wombats are also abundant at this time, with individuals being territorial and solitary with an established range for feeding."
Ben Brown, General Manager Operations
Suggested Tour: The Maria Island Walk
Duration: 4 Days/3 Nights
Type: SharedAvailable: October - late April
This four day guided walk across magnificent Maria Island, combines intimate wildlife encounters, fascinating history, pristine white sand beaches, and locally sourced gourmet food.
Tours in Maria Island related to Monotremes
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Forester Kangaroos
June,July,August, Maria Island
Maria Island - Winter Sightings for Land Mammals & Marsupials
Marsupials Kangaroos & Macropods: Forester Kangaroo*, Bennett's Wallaby*, Tasmanian Pademelon* | Wombats: Common Wombat* | Rat Kangaroos: Tasmanian Bettong, Long-nosed Potoroo | Brushtail Possums & Cuscuses: Common Brushtail Possum* Pygmy-Possums: Little Pygmy-Possum, Eastern Pygmy-Possum | Carnivorous Marsupials: Tasmanian Devil | Bandicoots & Bilbies: Southern Brown Bandicoot
Placental Mammals Rodents: Swamp Rat, Water Rat (Rakali)
* Denotes sighting chance as high or common
How to find these species
"Arriving back at Bernacchi House in the afternoon, guests commonly spot Bennett's Wallabies and Tasmanian Pademelons, often seen eating the heritage lavender in the gardens. The island's grasslands are one of Australia's best locations for viewing wombats, kangaroos and wallabies during the winter time. Forester Kangaroos surrounded by Cape Barren Geese and Tasmanian Native Hens are commonly seen grazing in natural or historic clearings, whilst pairs of beautiful Flame Robins dart around."
Ben Brown, General Manager Operations
Suggested Tour: Maria Island Winter Escape Walk
Duration: 3 Nights/2 nights
Type: SharedAvailable: June - late August
The 'Maria Island Winter Escape' is a three day lodge based experience which explores the beautiful and historic northern end of the island featuring abundant marsupials.
Tours in Maria Island related to Monotremes
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January,February,December, Tasmania
Tasmania - Summer Sightings for Land Mammals & Marsupials
Marsupials Kangaroos & Macropods: Forester Kangaroo*, Bennett's Wallaby*, Tasmanian Pademelon* | Wombats: Common Wombat* | Rat Kangaroos: Tasmanian Bettong, Long-nosed Potoroo | Brushtail Possums & Cuscuses: Common Brushtail Possum* | Ringtail Possums & Greater Gliders: Common Ringtail Possum* | Pygmy-Possums: Little Pygmy-Possum, Eastern Pygmy-Possum | Carnivorous Marsupials: Tasmanian Devil, Eastern Quoll, Spotted-tailed Quoll, Tasmanian Dusky Antechinus, Swamp Antechinus, Tasman Peninsula Antechinus, White-footed Dunnart | Bandicoots & Bilbies: Southern Brown Bandicoot, Eastern Barred Bandicoot
Monotremes Short-beaked Echidna | Platypus
Placental Mammals Bats: Little Forest Bat, Southern Forest Bat, Large Forest Bat, Chocolate Wattled Bat, Goulds Wattled Bat, Lesser long-eared Bat, Tasmanian Long-eared Bat | Rodents: Swamp Rat, Water Rat (Rakali), Long-tailed Mouse, New Holland Mouse, Broad-toothed Rat
* Denotes sighting chance as high or common
How to find these species
"The summer months are a peak time to see young carnivorous marsupials including Tasmanian Devils, Spotted-tailed and Eastern Quolls, particularly on our private trips to the Central Highlands. December is also the time to keep a lookout for baby possums riding around on their mother’s back. Common Wombats avoid the heat of the day, coming out to graze in the early mornings and evenings, when temperatures are lower. Although the wombat may breed at any time of the year, mating most often occurs during winter, so at this time, baby wombats can be seen in tow with their mothers. Forester Kangaroos, Bennett’s Wallabies and Tasmanian Pademelons are also commonly sighted with their young at this time."Elise Tardieu, Specialist Guide
Suggested Tour: 9 Day Western Wilderness & Wildlife Encounter
Duration: 9 Days/8 Nights
Type: Private, Shared DeparturesOn the east coast, experience a mix of beautiful eucalypt forests, spectacular coastlines, and tranquil bays, including Maria Island, Freycinet Peninsula, Bay of Fires and Cataract Gorge. On the west coast, visit incredible alpine regions, the contrasting east and west coastlines, Cradle Mountain National Park, quaint fishermen villages and old mining towns.
Tours in Tasmania related to Monotremes
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March,April,May, Tasmania
Tasmania - Autumn Sightings for Land Mammals & Marsupials
Marsupials Kangaroos & Macropods: Forester Kangaroo*, Bennett's Wallaby*, Tasmanian Pademelon* | Wombats: Common Wombat* | Rat Kangaroos: Tasmanian Bettong, Long-nosed Potoroo | Brushtail Possums & Cuscuses: Common Brushtail Possum* | Ringtail Possums & Greater Gliders: Common Ringtail Possum* | Pygmy-Possums: Little Pygmy-Possum, Eastern Pygmy-Possum | Carnivorous Marsupials: Tasmanian Devil, Eastern Quoll, Spotted-tailed Quoll, Tasmanian Dusky Antechinus, Swamp Antechinus, Tasman Peninsula Antechinus, White-footed Dunnart | Bandicoots & Bilbies: Southern Brown Bandicoot, Eastern Barred Bandicoot
Monotremes Short-beaked Echidna | Platypus
Placental Mammals Bats: Little Forest Bat, Southern Forest Bat, Large Forest Bat, Chocolate Wattled Bat, Goulds Wattled Bat, Lesser long-eared Bat, Tasmanian Long-eared Bat | Rodents: Swamp Rat, Water Rat (Rakali), Long-tailed Mouse, New Holland Mouse, Broad-toothed Rat
* Denotes sighting chance as high or common
How to find these species
"Macropod joeys such as Forester Kangaroos, Bennett’s Wallabies, Tasmanian Pademelons and Long-nosed Potoroos are typically weaned off their mothers around this time and follow their mothers around. Common Brushtail and Ringtail Possums also typically give birth from April onwards, with a couple of young remaining in the pouch for about four months. This time of year also provides opportunities to see Short-beaked Echidnas before they enter periods of hibernation and Common Wombats, that are abundant at various national parks including Narawntapu and Cradle Mountain."Elise Tardieu, Specialist Guide
Suggested Tour: 9 Day Western Wilderness & Wildlife Encounter
Duration: 9 Days/8 Nights
Type: Private, Shared DeparturesOn the east coast, experience a mix of beautiful eucalypt forests, spectacular coastlines, and tranquil bays, including Maria Island, Freycinet Peninsula, Bay of Fires and Cataract Gorge. On the west coast, visit incredible alpine regions, the contrasting east and west coastlines, Cradle Mountain National Park, quaint fishermen villages and old mining towns.
Tours in Tasmania related to Monotremes
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June,July,August, Tasmania
Tasmania - Winter Sightings for Land Mammals & Marsupials
Marsupials Kangaroos & Macropods: Forester Kangaroo*, Bennett's Wallaby*, Tasmanian Pademelon* | Wombats: Common Wombat* | Rat Kangaroos: Tasmanian Bettong, Long-nosed Potoroo | Brushtail Possums & Cuscuses: Common Brushtail Possum* | Ringtail Possums & Greater Gliders: Common Ringtail Possum* | Pygmy-Possums: Little Pygmy-Possum, Eastern Pygmy-Possum | Carnivorous Marsupials: Tasmanian Devil, Eastern Quoll, Spotted-tailed Quoll, Tasmanian Dusky Antechinus, Swamp Antechinus, Tasman Peninsula Antechinus, White-footed Dunnart | Bandicoots & Bilbies: Southern Brown Bandicoot, Eastern Barred Bandicoot
Monotremes Platypus
Placental Mammals Bats: Little Forest Bat, Southern Forest Bat, Large Forest Bat, Chocolate Wattled Bat, Goulds Wattled Bat, Lesser long-eared Bat, Tasmanian Long-eared Bat | Rodents: Swamp Rat, Water Rat (Rakali), Long-tailed Mouse, New Holland Mouse, Broad-toothed Rat
* Denotes sighting chance as high or common
How to find these species
"Breeding occurs in early winter for Eastern and Spotted-tail Quolls with females giving birth to up to 30 young, however, with only six teats, there is a high mortality rate. Our best chance to see them is on our private tours through the Central Highlands. The cooler conditions are ideal for spotting a range of marsupials including Common Wombats, Long-nosed Potoroos, Forester Kangaroos, Bennett’s Wallabies and Tasmanian Pademelons."Elise Tardieu, Specialist Guide
Suggested Tour: 9 Day Western Wilderness & Wildlife Encounter
Duration: 9 Days/8 Nights
Type: Private, Shared DeparturesOn the east coast, experience a mix of beautiful eucalypt forests, spectacular coastlines, and tranquil bays, including Maria Island, Freycinet Peninsula, Bay of Fires and Cataract Gorge. On the west coast, visit incredible alpine regions, the contrasting east and west coastlines, Cradle Mountain National Park, quaint fishermen villages and old mining towns.
Tours in Tasmania related to Monotremes
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September,October,November, Tasmania
Tasmania - Spring Sightings for Land Mammals & Marsupials
Marsupials Kangaroos & Macropods: Forester Kangaroo*, Bennett's Wallaby*, Tasmanian Pademelon* | Wombats: Common Wombat* | Rat Kangaroos: Tasmanian Bettong, Long-nosed Potoroo | Brushtail Possums & Cuscuses: Common Brushtail Possum* | Ringtail Possums & Greater Gliders: Common Ringtail Possum* | Pygmy-Possums: Little Pygmy-Possum, Eastern Pygmy-Possum | Carnivorous Marsupials: Tasmanian Devil, Eastern Quoll, Spotted-tailed Quoll, Tasmanian Dusky Antechinus, Swamp Antechinus, Tasman Peninsula Antechinus, White-footed Dunnart | Bandicoots & Bilbies: Southern Brown Bandicoot, Eastern Barred Bandicoot
Monotremes Short-beaked Echidna | Platypus
Placental Mammals Bats: Little Forest Bat, Southern Forest Bat, Large Forest Bat, Chocolate Wattled Bat, Goulds Wattled Bat, Lesser long-eared Bat, Tasmanian Long-eared Bat | Rodents: Swamp Rat, Water Rat (Rakali), Long-tailed Mouse, New Holland Mouse, Broad-toothed Rat
* Denotes sighting chance as high or common
How to find these species
"Spring is the peak season for seeing a number of Tasmania’s baby marsupials as they leave the pouch for the first time including Forester Kangaroos, Bennett’s Wallabies, Tasmanian Pademelons, Common Brushtail and Ringtail Possums. The island’s population of Tasmanian Devils emerge from their dens with imps (baby devils) often seen on their backs towards the start of spring. Common Wombats are also abundant at this time, especialy across Cradle Mountain."Elise Tardieu, Specialist Guide
Suggested Tour: 9 Day Western Wilderness & Wildlife Encounter
Duration: 9 Days/8 Nights
Type: Private, Shared DeparturesOn the east coast, experience a mix of beautiful eucalypt forests, spectacular coastlines, and tranquil bays, including Maria Island, Freycinet Peninsula, Bay of Fires and Cataract Gorge. On the west coast, visit incredible alpine regions, the contrasting east and west coastlines, Cradle Mountain National Park, quaint fishermen villages and old mining towns.
Tours in Tasmania related to Monotremes
