If you’re visiting the Great Barrier Reef or Whitsundays Islands you’re probably a nature lover, and of course, an animal lover. So we’ve put together some of the most popular and exciting animal sight-seeing activities just for you:
Snorkeling
Snorkeling is a rite of passage when visiting a Great Barrier Reef island, like Hayman. Diving down into the deep water below, you will be blown away by the exquisite beauty that has made the Great Barrier Reef famous. There are around 4,000 marine plant species and 360 different types of coral to capture your eye, and your underwater camera, if you have one.
Schools of tropical fish (most commonly Clownfish) are just one of the many underwater delights that can be found in the depths of the Great Barrier Reef. Also keep an eye out for the 6 different species of turtles (the Green Turtle and the Hawksbill Turtle) and the 14 species of sea snakes. Often you’ll encounter the Olive Sea Snake slithering through the ocean – apparently they’re also great swimmers (eek).
Spotting Whales and Dolphins
You’ll be sure to see one or two whales or dolphins if you keep your eyes peeled when staying in the Great Barrier Reef or on Hayman. The Reef is home to around 30 different species of whale and dolphin, in particular you’re likely to see a Humpback Whale or a Bottlenose Dolphin.
The Australian Government lists the Humpback as “vulnerable,” due to the history of whaling in the area. Listed as a World Heritage Area, the Great Barrier Reef has become a nursery for these majestic creatures, as they’re protected under Australian law. If you’re lucky enough to see a whale breach, snap away!
Dugong Watching
If you haven’t ever heard of a Dugong, they are large marine mammals that grow up to 3 metres long (that’s pretty big!). Once you have seen one you will agree that they are unique sea creatures and are definitely worth a see when you’re visiting the Great Barrier Reef. All you have to do is book a Dugong watching boat tour and you’ll be taken out to the areas where Dugongs are most commonly found. Of course, respect the area and take your rubbish with you when you return to dry land!
Birdworld Kuranda
Do you like birds? Well this is the animal watching activity for you! Birdworld Kuranda is home to around 75 species of 500 birds (there’s even a Black Swan). In fact, this is the largest free flying bird sanctuary in Oz. You can book an individual pass or a guided tour with Birdworld Kuranda.
Australian Butterfly Sanctuary
When in the Kuranda area, you may as well visit another rare animal, or should I say insect…. The Australian Butterfly Sanctuary is the largest of its kind in Australia, with over 1,500 butterflies fluttering about. You’ll be blown away by the array of colours of the variety of tropical butterflies. Look out for the bright blue Ulysses Butterfly! There are free 30-minute tours, which will help you brush up on your butterfly knowledge. Whether you’re a lover of slithering sea snakes or enjoy the flittering flurry of a butterfly, the Great Barrier Reef is rich in animal life. Don’t forget your camera!
Hayman Island’s Digital Marketing Executive, Lauren Esplin, loves nothing more than visiting new lands, meeting the people and learning different languages and customs. She also happens to work for one of the most beautiful islands in the world, and is fortunate enough to explore the Great Barrier Reef Islands as part of her job.
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