One of the draws to visiting Australia is the unique wildlife. They have some of the most unusual animals in the world and are only native to their prominent island destination. You will find creatures such as the kangaroo, wallaby, emu, Tasmanian devil, platypus, koala, and the one we will be diving deeper into, the wonderful wombat. 

What makes the wombat so wonderful?  

First, as we mentioned, they can only be found in Australia. (zoos don’t count) There are three species of wombats that you will find on your travels:

• The common wombat (pictured)
• The hairy-nosed northern wombat
• The hairy-nosed southern wombat 

You will likely find at least one species in all but the Northern Territory. However, the hairy-nosed northern wombat is at the highest risk of extinction and is harder to see in the wild. 

Second, unlike other marsupials, the wombat’s pouch faces backward. The pouch is a uniquely designed trait for the wombat is a digger. Having it backward prevents them from throwing dirt into the joeys that may be residing in the pocket. 

Third, speaking of digging, the wombat has strong, powerful claws. They are the largest burrowing mammals in the world and can dig up to three meters deep. That is almost 10-feet. They create an intricate tunnel system beneath the ground to include bed chambers.

Fourth, a fun fact, the wombat has cubed shape poop. The shape results from their diet, but it also serves a purpose. The wombat uses their poop to mark their territory and entrances to their burrows. 

Fifth, despite their short, stubby stature, the wombats are quick. They can run up to 25 miles per hour. I wouldn’t recommend getting too close in the wild as they could catch you and take a nip. They do bite. 

Finally, I’ve only touched on several characteristics of the wonderful wombat. What is not so wonderful is they are at risk. Predators, habitat, and even mange (an infection of the skin) contribute to their decline. However, all over Australia, licensed rehabilitation organizations are helping to secure their longevity. Boomerang Escapes is happy to support one of them as a “Wombassador.” You can read more here.

When you think of kangaroos, you most likely think Australia. It is no surprise as the kangaroo is an iconic symbol of Australia. This oddly proportioned animal with large powerful hind legs and feet for jumping paired with it’s small head and arms as well as a long tail for balance, can be found as a symbol on Australia’s coat of arms, currency, their major airline, and the Royal Airforce to name several of the places this creature pops up in Australian culture.  One of my favorites is the Christmas story of Santa and his six white boomers.  Boomers is another name for male kangaroos.  They can also be called bucks, jacks or old men. Whereas females can be referred to as does, flyers, or jills.  The infant kangaroo is referred to as a joey.

Kangaroos are fun and fascinating animals and can be spotted in the wild, found randomly within neighborhoods, on golf courses or on streets. You can also visit them in sanctuaries, zoos, and wildlife parks.  One of the fun things to do while visiting Australia is being able to feed them by hand. There are many opportunities to have a kangaroo encounter throughout Australia.  Several of my favorites have been Featherdale Wildlife Park, Cleland Wildlife Park, Kangaroo Island, and Kosciuszko National Park.