Meet the Local Wildlife on Your Next Kimberley Holiday

Apart from the stunning scenery, one of the reasons which draw visitors to the Kimberley area is the wildlife. A largely untouched wilderness, the Kimberley is home to diverse array of animals including a number of endangered species. If you’re about to head off on your Kimberley holidays, let’s take a look at some of the local wildlife you can expect to encounter.

Crocodiles

We can’t talk about the Kimberley region without mentioning the resident crocodiles! The smaller freshwater crocodile is found in rivers, creeks and lakes and feed mainly on insects and fish. They generally grow to a maximum of 2.3 to 3 metres and are relatively harmless. On the other hand, you need to be very careful with saltwater crocodiles. Salties are the largest predators in the world and can grow up to 6 metres in length. Territorial and aggressive, they are found throughout the Kimberley.

Rock wallabies

Wallabies are widespread throughout the Kimberley and rock wallabies in particular call the region home. Like kangaroos, wallabies have strong hind legs for jumping but are much smaller than kangaroos – especially some of the tiny rock wallaby species in the Kimberley! Rock wallabies are nocturnal herbivores and eat mainly plants and grass. Rock wallabies are compact and agile to help them navigate the steep, rocky terrain.

Dingoes

Although not originally native to Australia, dingoes arrive some ten thousand years ago and have integrated into the ecosystem. There are very few places where dingoes can be found living in the wild and the Kimberley region is one of them. The dingo is important in Aboriginal culture and helps to keep balance in the ecosystem. Unfortunately, dingoes are often viewed as pests. It’s important to remember that despite appearances, dingoes aren’t dogs and shouldn’t be approached or fed.

Northern quoll

The striking northern quoll is the smallest of the quoll species and has a distinctive appearance with a long tail and white spots on its back. They love the rocky areas of the Kimberley and it isn’t fussy when it comes to diet, eating insects, lizards, smaller mammals and fruit. During mating season, females can carry up to eight babies and find shelter in tree hollows or rock crevices.

With Ocean Dream Charters, you have your choice of eight or twelve day scheduled cruises which take in the many highlights of the region. Your every need is taken care of aboard our 80-foot twin hull catamaran and our crew will make sure you have an experience you never forget. For a personalised Kimberley holiday, you can also opt for a private charter with friends and family.

For Kimberley holiday packages aboard our luxury vessel, contact Ocean Dream Charters today on 1300 944 727.