Explore the top spots for viewing Australian wildlife and bird life in the Yarra Valley & Dandenong Ranges.

Explore the top attractions of the region on our Yarra Valley Wine Tours.

Where can you see animals and birds?

Healesville Sanctuary offers opportunities to see various Australian animals, including koas, kangaroos, platypuses, dingoes, wombats, emus, and more. Travelers can also enjoy bird shows featuring majestic birds of prey and parrots.

Where can I locate native wildlife species at risk?

The native species in this area are known to be shy and depend on our efforts to maintain a healthy environment for survival.

Let’s explore some of the recommended locations in the area!

• The Leadbeater’s possum can be found in the Yellingbo Conservation Reserve, with restricted access, but occasional special events can provide opportunities to see them.
• Owls can be found in quiet areas in Mt. Evelyn and Birdsland Reserve, particularly at dusk and into the night.
• The Platypus can be found in the Yarra River in Warburton or Warrandyte State Park.

Where can native animals and birds be found in the wild?

When visiting the Yarra Valley & Dandenong Ranges, drive carefully, and remember to watch out for wildlife during your travels.

• Sugarloaf Reservoir
• Sherbrooke Forest Drive
• Travel up Mount Donna Buang Road to reach the summit.

Kangaroos are often seen in the vineyard and on the golf course

Kangaroos and wallabies can often be seen there as they enjoy the open space and lush grass for hopping around.

• Yarrambat Golf course
• Yering Gorge Cottages
• The Eastern Golf Club
• Westerfolds Park
• All the vineyards

Looking for birds?

Birds are attracted to cool, climate-sheltered areas where many species coexist. Looking around for signs of activity on the forest floor can be done at any time of day.

• The Rainforest Gallery in Warburton features native bird species such as finches, kookaburras, lyrebirds, and more.
• Murrindindi Scenic Reserve offers a variety of landscapes and attractions.
• There are various types of properties available in Olinda Creek, Lilydale.
• Native ducks and other waterfowl can often congregate at the Yarra River near Warburton, Emerald Park Lake, and other bodies of moving water.
• Kookaburras are commonly found in various locations, including pubs.

Where are koalas?

Koalas are typically found resting in gum trees during the day and are more active at night.

• The Kinglake area is known for its koala population, as many have been released to establish new habitats in recent years.
• In Warrandyte, near the Yarra River, visitors can walk along the river bank and listen to the characteristic growling sound of the wildlife.