The Wildlife of Fraser Island

Come face to face with Fraser Island’s local creatures both big and small!

Fraser Island boasts an incredibly diverse selection of native wildlife thanks to its eclectic collection of landscapes and unique scenery. On any one day, you might spot a dingo loping elegantly along the beach right before catching a glimpse of a prehistoric lizard slithering up one of the island’s many trees.

A lot of the species on the island are rare or vulnerable, which makes a visit to Fraser Island even more special.

• The Mammals of Fraser Island

  The island is home to a range of mammals because of its exceptional diversity in ecosystems and scenery. There are around 47 species of mammal, including the Swamp Wallaby, the Small Eared Mountain Possum, and the Sugar Glider. When wandering around the island, you can catch these creatures in their natural habitat, whether that’s under the canopies of ancient trees, or crawling up the tree trunks themselves. However, one of the most famous mammals found on Fraser Island is the dingoes. These dingoes are unlike any other that is found on Australia, as the introduction of domestic dogs has to lead to all mainland dingoes to be crossbreds. The pure dingoes have become extremely rare these days, with Fraser Island, which has a strict ban on no dogs on the island, the only place with them currently. There is estimated to be around 25 to 30 packs on the island, with these dingoes at the very top of the island’s food chain!

• The Birds of Fraser Island

  Fraser Island is home to a whopping 354 species of birds, partly because of its incredible range of food sources, and partly because of its huge collection of different nesting and breeding areas. Keep your eyes peeled overhead when exploring the island to catch a glimpse of some of the rarer species.

• The Reptiles of Fraser Island

  The Sand Monitor and the Lace Monitor are the two most commonly spotted reptiles on Fraser Island, but there are in total around 79 species of reptile which includes 19 species of snakes. You’re most likely to see these creatures around picnic areas and in open woodland spaces on the island.

• The Sea Creatures of Fraser Island

  The sea surrounding Fraser Island is filled with unique and majestic sea creatures that can be discovered via scuba diving, snorkelling, or taking a boat ride. You might get to see dolphins, dugongs, turtles, and rays. And, if you’re lucky enough to be visiting between July and November, keep your eyes peeled for the migrating humpback whales as they head in search of warmer waters.

As well as these groups of animals, you also have the opportunity to spot rare frog species, including the “acid” frogs in the swamps.

Exploring Fraser Island is a unique and special experience thanks to its numerous landscapes and wildlife spotting opportunities. There are plenty of native species to spot while you’re there, from colourful bird species, to beloved mammal species, and majestic sea creatures that languish in the waves just off the shoreline.

Cameron Ward

Managing Director at Sightseeing Tours Australia

Cameron Ward turned his travel passion into a thriving Australian tourism business. Before he co-founded his own business, Sightseeing Tours Australia, he was enjoying being a Melbourne tour guide. Even now, Cameron delights in helping visitors from all around the world get the most out of their incredible Australian trip. You’ll see Cameron leading tours or writing about his favourite Australian places where he shares his local insights.