Into the wild Finding wild animals near you

Into the wIldwild

In collaboration with World Animal Protection, travel blogging duo Jarryd and Alesha of NOMADasaurus have put together their tips for seeing animals in the wild, and keeping them safe in the process. Here is their list of do’s and don’ts for encountering wild animals.

Do’s

• When you spot an animal in the wild, make sure you and your children keep your distance. Even the cutest animal can be dangerous if it feels scared or threatened, or it might leave its environment and young ones if you get too close. • When you approach any animal in a controlled environment where it is allowed to do so, like at a reputable sanctuary, walk up to it very slowly and in a calm way.

Don’t make any sudden movements or noises or you may spook it. • Do take a few minutes to watch the animal going about its life. Take note of the way it moves, its behaviour, how it plays or interacts with other creatures and the way it eats. Every animal is special and by simply observing carefully, you and your kids will have a newfound appreciation for them. • Find out as much information as you can about each animal and share that knowledge with your kids. Talk about the importance of conservation so that your children can enjoy these creatures for many years to come. • Do seek out ethical wildlife activities in the wild rather than in zoos.

Don’ts

• Don’t feed any wild animals. Different animals may have very strict diets, and even something that is completely harmless to us can make a creature very sick. • Don’t sign up for any activities or attractions that have you or your kids interact with wildlife in an unnatural environment. Some examples of that are feeding and swimming with dolphins, elephant riding, big cat petting or visiting crocodile farms. • Don’t touch any wild animals, particularly in the sea. Many marine animals have protective membranes over their skin that protects them from bacteria, and the natural oils in our hands can remove this, leaving them open to infection.

By Jarryd and Alesha of NOMADasaurus, www.nomadasaurus.com

Top 4 locations for family-friendly wildlife encounters

To help you be an animal-friendly traveller, World Animal Protection has pulled together their top picks for places you are likely to see Australian animals in the wild in Victoria.

Penguins at Phillip Island:

The daily parade of little penguins at Phillip Island is one of Australia’s most popular wildlife attractions. Little penguins are the smallest type of penguins, and are native to Australia. Each night at sunset they return ashore after a day spent fishing, and visitors throng to watch them waddle up the beach from the viewing stands and boardwalks. Not far from the penguins is Seal Rocks, home to one of Australia’s largest seal colonies.

Kangaroos at Tower Hill Wildlife Reserve:

This reserve sits inside an extinct volcano, so it’s a unique spot to see not only kangaroos, but also koalas, emus and waterbirds. There are guided tours available each day, as well as walking tracks and picnic facilities. As you’re walking through the more than 300,000 trees you’re bound to see an array of wildlife in their natural habitats.

Wombats at Wilsons Promontory:

Also known as ‘The Prom’, this coastal reserve showcases the best of our Australian wildlife – home to wombats, kangaroos, emus, echidnas and rosellas. The labyrinth of walking tracks provide ample opportunities to spot these incredible animals, and the secluded beaches help make it the perfect summer destination.

Koalas at Raymond Island:

This is your go-to for the best koala-spotting in Victoria. You can catch a ferry from Paynesville (300km from Melbourne) to explore the island’s Koala Trail. Spend the day looking up into the trees to spot these furry creatures enjoying their leafy homes. For more details visit www.worldanimalprotection.org.au