Crocodiles
Crocodiles are extraordinary creatures, having survived since the age of dinosaurs with very few adaptations. Australia is home to only two species of crocodile, but can boast having the largest; the Saltwater Crocodile. Although ‘salties’ can live in the sea, they prefer estuaries and freshwater swamps across northern Australia and will often venture inland during the breeding season. The Saltwater Crocodile lays clutches of 30-70 eggs with the sex of the hatchlings dependent on the temperature at which the eggs are incubated. Kakadu & Arnhem Land and the Daintree River north of Cairns, offers numerous boating opportunities to view Australia’s apex predator. Saltwater Crocodiles can also be sighted along the Mulgrave River south of Cairns.
The Freshwater Crocodile (also known as Johnstone’s Crocodile) lives in rivers, swamps and billabongs also in northern Australia, but is much smaller and generally harmless to humans. They typically lay their eggs around June in the dry season and can be seen congregating in large numbers around waterholes and billabongs. Once hatched, females protect their young from predators such as turtles, raptors, pythons, sea eagles and even large fish.
Viewing opportunities that include crocodiles
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Saltwater Crocodile
January,February,December, Cairns
Cairns & Far North Queensland - Summer Sightings for Reptiles and Amphibians
Crocodiles Saltwater Crocodile, Freshwater Crocodile Lizards Geckos: Chameleon Gecko, Northern Leaf-tailed Gecko | Dragon Lizards: Boyd's Forest Dragon, Frilled-neck Lizard, Eastern Water Dragon, Two-lined Dragon | Goannas: Lace Monitor, Sand Goanna, Spotted Goanna | Skinks: Rainbow Skink, Major Skink, Shade Skink, Fire-tailed Skink, Yellow-blotched Forest Skink
Turtles Freshwater Turtles: Saw-shelled Turtle Snakes Pythons: Amethystine (Scrub) Python, Spotted Python, Black-headed Python, Jungle Carpet Python, Water Python | Colubrids: Common Tree Snake, Northern Tree Snake, Brown Tree Snake, Keelback, Slaty-Grey Snake | Elapids: Red-bellied Black Snake, Coastal Taipan Frogs Tree Frogs: Orange-thighed Tree Frog, Green Eyed Tree Frog, White-lipped Tree Frog, Northern Dwarf Tree Frog, Eastern Dwarf Tree Frog, Common Green Tree Frog, Desert Tree Frog, Stony Creek Frog, Northern Barred Frog How to find these species
“Exploring the wet tropics for reptiles is particularly rewarding during summer. With the warmth fueling the activity of cold-blooded creatures, it becomes easier to spot them. The Amethystine Python, Australia's largest python, is frequently encountered. The elusive Boyd's Forest Dragon, known for its ability to blend seamlessly into its surroundings, presents a thrilling challenge for observers. Summer offers a fascinating glimpse into the behavior of Saltwater Crocodiles as they conclude their breeding season along the Daintree River. A private river boat charter provides an excellent opportunity to witness their territorial disputes. Abundant water and warmth in summer create a bustling amphibian world, with highlights including the Green-eyed Tree Frog and Australia's largest tree frog, the White-lipped Tree Frog."
James Boettcher, Tour Guide
Suggested tour: 3 Day Ultimate Wildlife North Queensland
Duration: 3 days/2 nights
Type: Groups, private charter, sharedFar North Queensland is a wildlife enthusiast's paradise with this small group tour concentrating on the endemic wildlife found within Australia's most biodiverse region across both the Daintree and Atherton Tablelands.
Tours in Cairns related to Crocodiles
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White-lipped Tree Frog
March,April,May, Cairns
Cairns & Far North Queensland - Autumn Sightings for Reptiles and Amphibians
Crocodiles Saltwater Crocodile, Freshwater Crocodile Lizards Geckos: Chameleon Gecko, Northern Leaf-tailed Gecko | Dragon Lizards: Boyd's Forest Dragon, Frilled-neck Lizard, Eastern Water Dragon, Two-lined Dragon | Goannas: Lace Monitor, Sand Goanna, Spotted Goanna | Skinks: Rainbow Skink, Major Skink, Shade Skink, Fire-tailed Skink, Yellow-blotched Forest Skink
Turtles Freshwater Turtles: Saw-shelled Turtle Snakes Pythons: Amethystine (Scrub) Python, Spotted Python, Black-headed Python, Jungle Carpet Python, Water Python | Colubrids: Common Tree Snake, Northern Tree Snake, Brown Tree Snake, Keelback, Slaty-Grey Snake | Elapids: Red-bellied Black Snake, Coastal Taipan Frogs Tree Frogs: Orange-thighed Tree Frog, Green Eyed Tree Frog, White-lipped Tree Frog, Northern Dwarf Tree Frog, Eastern Dwarf Tree Frog, Common Green Tree Frog, Desert Tree Frog, Stony Creek Frog, Northern Barred Frog How to find these species
“Autumn in North Queensland provides a unique spectacle – the emergence of baby Saltwater Crocodiles. Adult females bring their offspring down to the water, showcasing this annual event. As the season transitions, snakes become more visible, basking on logs and rocks to absorb the last traces of summer heat before entering semi-hibernation. The dropping river and creek levels offer closer encounters with frogs like the Green-eyed Tree Frog, the massive Northern Barred Frog with its distinctive call, and the White-lipped Tree Frog, the largest tree frog in Australia."
James Boettcher, Tour Guide
Suggested tour: 4 Day Nature, Wildlife & Conservation Safari
Duration: 4 days/3 nights
Type: Groups, private charter, sharedFar North Queensland is a wildlife enthusiast's paradise with this small group tour concentrating on the endemic wildlife found within Australia's most biodiverse region across both the Daintree and Atherton Tablelands.
Tours in Cairns related to Crocodiles
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Australian (Common) Tree Snake
June,July,August, Cairns
Cairns & Far North Queensland - Winter Sightings for Reptiles and Amphibians
Crocodiles Saltwater Crocodile, Freshwater Crocodile Lizards Geckos: Chameleon Gecko, Northern Leaf-tailed Gecko | Dragon Lizards: Boyd's Forest Dragon, Frilled-neck Lizard, Eastern Water Dragon, Two-lined Dragon | Goannas: Lace Monitor, Sand Goanna, Spotted Goanna | Skinks: Rainbow Skink, Major Skink, Shade Skink, Fire-tailed Skink, Yellow-blotched Forest Skink
Turtles Freshwater Turtles: Saw-shelled Turtle Snakes Pythons: Amethystine (Scrub) Python, Spotted Python, Black-headed Python, Jungle Carpet Python, Water Python | Colubrids: Common Tree Snake, Northern Tree Snake, Brown Tree Snake, Keelback, Slaty-Grey Snake | Elapids: Red-bellied Black Snake, Coastal Taipan Frogs Tree Frogs: Orange-thighed Tree Frog, Green Eyed Tree Frog, White-lipped Tree Frog, Northern Dwarf Tree Frog, Eastern Dwarf Tree Frog, Common Green Tree Frog, Desert Tree Frog, Stony Creek Frog, Northern Barred Frog How to find these species
“The dry season, or winter, in Far North Queensland is the coolest period, prompting reptiles to seek warmth on logs and rocks. Frogs like the Green-eyed Tree Frog and White-lipped Tree Frog, along with snakes like the Common Tree Snake, become more active. In the higher reaches of the rainforest canopy, keen observers may spot Leaf-tailed Geckos with binoculars. Surprisingly, winter presents optimal conditions for observing Saltwater Crocodiles, as the drop in Daintree River's water temperature prompts these creatures to bask in the sun, providing excellent photographic opportunities on solar-powered boats."
James Boettcher, Tour Guide
Suggested tour: 3 Day Ultimate Wildlife North Queensland
Duration: 3 days/2 nights
Type: Groups, private charter, sharedFar North Queensland is a wildlife enthusiast's paradise with this small group tour concentrating on the endemic wildlife found within Australia's most biodiverse region across both the Daintree and Atherton Tablelands.
Tours in Cairns related to Crocodiles
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Boyd's Forest Dragon
September,October,November, Cairns
Cairns & Far North Queensland - Spring Sightings for Reptiles and Amphibians
Crocodiles Saltwater Crocodile, Freshwater Crocodile Lizards Geckos: Chameleon Gecko, Northern Leaf-tailed Gecko | Dragon Lizards: Boyd's Forest Dragon, Frilled-neck Lizard, Eastern Water Dragon, Two-lined Dragon | Goannas: Lace Monitor, Sand Goanna, Spotted Goanna | Skinks: Rainbow Skink, Major Skink, Shade Skink, Fire-tailed Skink, Yellow-blotched Forest Skink
Turtles Freshwater Turtles: Saw-shelled Turtle Snakes Pythons: Amethystine (Scrub) Python, Spotted Python, Black-headed Python, Jungle Carpet Python, Water Python | Colubrids: Common Tree Snake, Northern Tree Snake, Brown Tree Snake, Keelback, Slaty-Grey Snake | Elapids: Red-bellied Black Snake, Coastal Taipan Frogs Tree Frogs: Orange-thighed Tree Frog, Green Eyed Tree Frog, White-lipped Tree Frog, Northern Dwarf Tree Frog, Eastern Dwarf Tree Frog, Common Green Tree Frog, Desert Tree Frog, Stony Creek Frog, Northern Barred Frog How to find these species
“Spring in Far North Queensland brings an array of exciting reptilian activities. The alpha male Saltwater Crocodile, known as 'Scarface,' asserts dominance on the Daintree River, engaging in territorial displays as breeding season approaches. The region's biodiversity shines during spring, with the possibility of encountering ten to 15 different reptile species over a few days. Notable sightings include the Red-bellied Black Snake, the harmless Amethystine and Spotted Pythons, the Boyd's Forest Dragon, and the increasingly active Lace Monitor as temperatures rise. "
James Boettcher, Tour Guide
Suggested tour: 3 Day Ultimate Wildlife North Queensland
Duration: 3 days/2 nights
Type: Groups, private charter, sharedFar North Queensland is a wildlife enthusiast's paradise with this small group tour concentrating on the endemic wildlife found within Australia's most biodiverse region across both the Daintree and Atherton Tablelands.
Tours in Cairns related to Crocodiles
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Green Turtle
January,February,December, Frankland Islands National Park
Frankland Islands & Mulgrave River - Summer Sightings for Reptiles and Amphibians
Crocodiles Saltwater Crocodile (Mulgrave River cruise only)
Turtles Sea Turtles: Green Turtle, Hawksbill Turtle
Snakes Sea Snakes: Dubois's Sea Snake, Olive Sea Snake, Mosaic Sea Snake, Spine-bellied Sea Snake, Elegant Sea Snake, , Spectacled Sea Snake, Small-headed Sea Snake, Horned Sea Snake, Stokes's Sea Snake
Suggested Tour: Frankland Islands Reef Cruises Day Tour
Duration: Full Day
Type: Shared or PrivateSpend the day at one of the most beautiful snorkelling locations on the Great Barrier Reef, with the opportunity to experience World Heritage-listed rivers, rainforests and reefs. Leave the crowds behind and enjoy exclusive access to the hidden treasure that is the Frankland Islands National Park.
Tours in Frankland Islands National Park related to Crocodiles
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Green Turtle
March,April,May, Frankland Islands National Park
Frankland Islands & Mulgrave River - Autumn Sightings for Reptiles and Amphibians
Crocodiles Saltwater Crocodile (Mulgrave River cruise only)
Turtles Sea Turtles: Green Turtle, Hawksbill Turtle
Snakes Sea Snakes: Dubois's Sea Snake, Olive Sea Snake, Mosaic Sea Snake, Spine-bellied Sea Snake, Elegant Sea Snake, , Spectacled Sea Snake, Small-headed Sea Snake, Horned Sea Snake, Stokes's Sea Snake
Suggested Tour: Frankland Islands Reef Cruises Day Tour
Duration: Full Day
Type: Shared or PrivateSpend the day at one of the most beautiful snorkelling locations on the Great Barrier Reef, with the opportunity to experience World Heritage-listed rivers, rainforests and reefs. Leave the crowds behind and enjoy exclusive access to the hidden treasure that is the Frankland Islands National Park.
Tours in Frankland Islands National Park related to Crocodiles
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Saltwater Crocodile on Mulgrave River Cruise
June,July,August, Frankland Islands National Park
Frankland Islands & Mulgrave River - Winter Sightings for Reptiles and Amphibians
Crocodiles Saltwater Crocodile (Mulgrave River cruise only)
Turtles Sea Turtles: Green Turtle, Hawksbill Turtle
Snakes Sea Snakes: Dubois's Sea Snake, Olive Sea Snake, Mosaic Sea Snake, Spine-bellied Sea Snake, Elegant Sea Snake, , Spectacled Sea Snake, Small-headed Sea Snake, Horned Sea Snake, Stokes's Sea Snake
Suggested Tour: Frankland Islands Reef Cruises Day Tour
Duration: Full Day
Type: Shared or PrivateSpend the day at one of the most beautiful snorkelling locations on the Great Barrier Reef, with the opportunity to experience World Heritage-listed rivers, rainforests and reefs. Leave the crowds behind and enjoy exclusive access to the hidden treasure that is the Frankland Islands National Park.
Tours in Frankland Islands National Park related to Crocodiles
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Saltwater Crocodile in Mangroves on Mulgrave River
September,October,November, Frankland Islands National Park
Frankland Islands & Mulgrave River - Spring Sightings for Reptiles and Amphibians
Crocodiles Saltwater Crocodile (Mulgrave River cruise only)
Turtles Sea Turtles: Green Turtle, Hawksbill Turtle
Snakes Sea Snakes: Dubois's Sea Snake, Olive Sea Snake, Mosaic Sea Snake, Spine-bellied Sea Snake, Elegant Sea Snake, , Spectacled Sea Snake, Small-headed Sea Snake, Horned Sea Snake, Stokes's Sea Snake
Suggested Tour: Frankland Islands Reef Cruises Day Tour
Duration: Full Day
Type: Shared or PrivateSpend the day at one of the most beautiful snorkelling locations on the Great Barrier Reef, with the opportunity to experience World Heritage-listed rivers, rainforests and reefs. Leave the crowds behind and enjoy exclusive access to the hidden treasure that is the Frankland Islands National Park.
Tours in Frankland Islands National Park related to Crocodiles
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Northern Dwarf Tree Frog
June,July,August, Kakadu & Arnhem Land
Kakadu & Arnhem Land - Winter Sightings for Reptiles and Amphibians
Crocodiles Saltwater Crocodile, Freshwater Crocodile Lizards Geckos: Rough Knob-tail Gecko, Yellow-snouted Gecko | Dragon Lizards: Frill-necked Lizard, Gilbert's Dragon, Northern Water Dragon, Two-lined Dragon | Goannas: Merten's Water Goanna, Sand Goanna, Yellow-spotted Goanna | Skinks: Fire-tailed Skink, Two-spined Rainbow Skink, Northern Blue-tongued Skink
Turtles Freshwater Turtles: Flatback Turtle, Long-necked Turtle, Pig-nosed Turtle Snakes Pythons: Olive Python, Children Python, Oenpelli Python, Water Python, Black-headed Water Python, Carpet Python | Colubrids: Common Tree Snake, Northern Tree Snake, Golden Tree Snake, Brown Tree Snake, Keelback, Slaty-Grey Snake | Elapids: Mulga Snake, Coastal Taipan, Olive Whipsnake | File Snake: Arafura File Snake
Frogs Tree Frogs: Green Tree Frog, Dahl's Aquatic Frog, Copland's Rock Frog, Roth's Tree Frog, Northern Dwarf Tree Frog, Green Tree Frog, Brown Tree Frog Suggested tour: Kakadu Birdwatching Safari
Duration: 6 Days/5 Nights
Type: Private Charter
Departs: On requestJoin a small group birding tour to explore Australia's Wild Top End, teeming with birdlife across diverse habitats. Picture a Wilkin's Rock Wallaby near ancient rock art, the call of a Chestnut Quilled Rock Pigeon echoing in the background, or sunrise by a dry creek bed, awaiting Gouldian Finches at the last puddles
Tours in Kakadu & Arnhem Land related to Crocodiles
