If you are an animal lover who is planning on visiting Sydney, you are probably searching for all the ways how you can spot and interact with the local wildlife while in this amazing city. You’re in luck because the capital of New South Wales is full of opportunities to see various animals in their natural habitat both in the wild and in controlled environments. Keep on reading for a quick guide when it comes to meeting wildlife in Sydney.
Take a trip to the Sydney Zoo
While it is located 35 kilometres away from Sydney CBD, taking a trip to the Sydney Zoo by Bungarribee is worthy of the trip. Opened in December of 2019, this zoo has state-of-the-art enclosures that house a wide range of wildlife from all over the planet. No matter if you’re travelling with kids or alone, you can get close to these animals as the zoo offers encounters with lions, camels, capybaras, giraffes, and meerkats. Your little one can even take part in a program that will allow them to experience what it’s like to be a zookeeper. From helping preserve the local Aboriginal history and the environment to teaching visitors about the importance of conservation, there are many reasons to visit Sydney Zoo.
Visit the Taronga Zoo
Another zoo you can visit is Taronga Zoo Sydney. Located on the shores of Sydney Harbour, in the suburb of Mosman, Taronga Zoo Sydney opened in 1916 and is the largest zoo in the Land Down Under. This 28-hectare zoo is divided into eight regions that are home to over 350 animal species, from Sumatran tigers and Asian elephants to tree kangaroos and southern corroboree frogs. Moreover, there is also a café and a shop where you can get cute plushies and educational books and help the zoo’s conservation efforts. Fun fact: Taronga actually means ‘beautiful view’ and it certainly delivers.
Find Nemo the Sea Life Sydney Aquarium
On the other hand, you might be looking for marine wildlife, in which case a trip to the Sea Life Sydney Aquarium is a must. In the tunnels of Darling Harbour, you can meet various tropical fish, little penguins, and turtles, among 13,000 other water creatures. The aquarium has nine interactive zones where you can learn more about the species that inhabit the area.
Spot the marine wildlife on Shelly Beach
Maybe you’d like to mix wildlife exploration with sunbathing and snorkeling. Then, the perfect spot for you is Shelly Beach. In addition to making it a popular place for learning to dive, the calm waves of this area of Manly also contribute to the rich marine wildlife. You can see blue gropers or occasionally spot a dolphin or wobbegong. Even on land, you can encounter some animals like brush turkeys and sunbaking water dragons.
Go on a Sydney Harbour cruise
While on the topic of marine animals, you can also choose to go whale watching in Sydney. If you time your visit to the capital of New South Wales right, you might be able to join a cruise that will teach you about whales, their behavior, and migration patterns. With approximately 16,000 humpback whales migrating this year, you are sure to spot some while you enjoy your lunch and drink. Plus, you’ll get a unique tour of Sydney from a completely new viewpoint.
Get some hands-on experience at Featherdale Wildlife Park
The Featherdale Wildlife Park will provide you with a unique opportunity to get some hands-on experience with the native critters that live there. While they have animals that are common in Australia like koalas, kangaroos, and kookaburras, you can also find some more rare and endangered species such as Tasmanian devils and bilbies. From cuddling a possum to chilling with a dingo, you should not skip this Western Sydney center if you are looking for something a bit different, as it’s only 45 minutes away from the CBD. What is more, if you want a free photo with a koala, this is the place for you.
See koalas at the Koala Park Sanctuary
Speaking of koalas, why not give the Koala Park Sanctuary a visit as well? Despite the name, koalas are not the only animal you can see here. They are joined by emus, wombats, dingoes, kangaroos, and echidnas as well as lambs. Furthermore, you can also take a tour to enjoy the native gardens, eucalyptus groves, and the lush rainforest. Only 20 minutes from Sydney CBD, it’s a great chance to see some of the amazing wildlife up-close.
Cuddle with fluffy farm animals at Golden Ridge Animal Farm
If you’re looking for an adventure you can have with your child, give Golden Ridge Animal Farm a go. Even though the farm focuses on providing kids with some hands-on experience with all sorts of fluffy animals that live there, adults are welcome as well. There are around 500 furry and feathered members of the farm family, including chicks, ducklings, rabbits, and lambs. Seeing as how your visit will be scheduled for the morning, you might get a chance to milk a cow, bottle feed baby goats, and cuddle these cute little animals. You will have to book ahead if you plan on visiting the farm, however. Moreover, remember to stay safe during the pandemic.
Meet adorable animals at Calmsley Hill City Farm
Finally, you can become an expert in handling farm animals at Calmsley Hill City Farm. Less than an hour away from the CBD, this farm is a great example of the rural lifestyle. From interacting with young goats and learning about shearing sheep to milking cows and watching a working dog round up sheep, there are plenty of activities you can take part in. What is more, there are also ponies, koalas, kangaroos, peacocks, snakes, and lizards you can encounter.
If you are looking for a spot where you can see and interact with wildlife, consider adding any of these amazing places in Sydney to your itinerary. From zoos and aquariums to wildlife parks and farms, the capital of New South Wales has a lot to offer so don’t miss out.