Wildlife
Many animals and birds can be observed around the resort, in the National
Park and the ocean.
Wildlife is abundant and able to be approached.
More than 140 species of birds, reptiles, turtles, possums and a variety of butterflies can be observed
busily going about their lives.
Wallabies & Eastern Grey Kangaroos - Of particular fascination are the wallabies
and kangaroos that go to the beach,
so if you are up in time to see the sunrise then you will have every chance
of seeing the wallabies on the beach. There are several species of
wallaby with the Agile Wallaby being the most
common in the area.
Brush Tailed Possums - are quite sociable. The young are carried
in the pouch, and later, on mother's back. Quite a family affair.
Fruit Bats (also known as Flying
Foxes) - can be heard at night. These nocturnal mammals
sleep in the mangroves during the day and often visit the resort at night
to feast on trees in fruit.
Echidnas - the Australian spiny ant
eater is an enchanting relic of ancient
life. They can sometimes be seen at night. Don't touch though - they really
are spiny.
Whales - During the whale watching
season (July - August are the best months), you may be lucky to see the
whales and their calves on their annual migration. They often take
time out in Casuarina Bay to frolic with their young.
Turtles - Flatback and green turtles
can be seen year round at Cape Hillsborough, especially from 'Turtle
Lookout' and around Wedge Island. Throughout the summer you may be
fortunate enough to encounter turtles laying their eggs on the beach, or
their hatchlings heading to the horizon as they struggle to find their way
to the water.
Reptiles - A huge variety of
lizards, geckos, skinks and snakes make their home at Cape Hillsborough.
While bushwalking it is great to see them sunning themselves on the
rocks or darting off as you approach. The geckos come out at night
to catch insects - they can always be seen around the resort buildings
where the lights attract the insects.
A plethora of Butterflies can be
found at Cape Hillsborough. Over 20 species have been
identified, with amazing variations in colour and shape. Species such as the Blue Tiger
are plentiful and can be seen predominantly in the cooler
winter months. The other spectacular species that is plentiful
throughout the National Park is the beautiful Ulysses butterfly.
|
