Melbourne’s Wildlife

Koala in Wildlife Park

You wouldn’t think it just from wandering through the streets, but Melbourne is teeming with wildlife. If you know where to look, you’ll find more animals than you could possibly imagine. That’s why we’ve prepared this treasure map to help you discover Melbourne’s wildlife.

The first stop has to be the Melbourne Zoo, Australia’s oldest. Built in 1862 and formally called the Royal Melbourne Zoological Gardens, the grounds hold over 350 different species sure to delight. Interestingly, the Zoo’s original mission wasn’t to serve the public; instead, it was meant as a place for imported domestic animals to rest after the long voyage from Europe or Africa. By 1870, however, the Zoo was opened to the public as exotic animals were brought in from across the world. Like its contemporaries throughout Australia, one of the more engaging ways to experience the Melbourne Zoo is through the Roar and Snore program. Visitors sleep in specially prepared tents and shelters, and wake to the morning sounds of wildlife just beginning their day. The Zoo is accessible by train and tram. Alternatively, you could take a pleasant 4 kilometre ride up the Capital City Bike Trail.

Once you’ve had your fill of land lubbers, it’s time to check out the Melbourne Aquarium, located on the bank of the Yarra. The Aquarium is a recent addition to the city’s wildlife offerings, built in 1998. That said, there is already an addition in the works. Once it’s completed in the latter part of 2008, it will hold a substantial number of penguins from Antarctica in an exhibit complete with snow and ice. Don’t worry, jackets and hats are provided!

For an experience with a bit more substance, the Healesville Sanctuary is well worth your time. Though technically a zoo, the Sanctuary isn’t split into different exhibits like the Melbourne Zoo. Instead, visitors can roam through over 78 acres of natural bushland. Walking trails navigate through this beautiful landscape, allowing personal interaction with a number of different animals. The Sanctuary (sometimes referred to as the Sir Colin MacKenzie Fauna Park) also provides scheduled tours throughout the day.

Melbourne is a veritable bonanza of wildlife, with opportunities for exploration at every corner. Indeed, just wandering through Federal Square, you’re bound to see flocks of birds settling down for their afternoon meal. Each of these animals adds a little something to the fabric of Melbourne, and the city wouldn’t quite be complete without them.

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