Discovering the Animals of Australia
When you visit a country on a walking holiday, it can often be a wonderful opportunity to see some iconic animals in the flesh as you walk. Australia is home to some of the world's most recognised creatures, ranging from the cuddly and fuzzy to the downright bizarre - and depending on where you travel on your walking holidays, you might have the opportunity to spot these amazing animals up close and personal.
Kangaroos
Perhaps the most iconic of the Australian mammals, the kangaroo has been associated with Australia since time immemorial. As a national symbol of the country, it has been featured on the coat of arms, on the currency, and in the logos of such well-known organisations such as Qantas. This means you will become familiar with the animals on your travels, even if it's not a live one that you see while you walk! Australia's kangaroo was first dubbed in 1770 by Lieutenant James Cook - the word deriving from the Guugu Yimithirr word 'gangurru'. A common myth about the kangaroo's English name is that 'kangaroo' was a Guugu Yimithirr phrase for "I don't understand you." According to this legend, Lieutenant Cook asked a nearby local what the creatures were called, and the local responded "kangaroo", meaning "I don't understand you", which Cook took to be the name of the creature. However, this myth was later debunked by linguistic researchers.
Koalas
Found mainly in eastern and southern coastal regions of Australia, koalas are a particularly cute and recognisable inhabitant of the country - and plenty of fun to try and spot on a wilderness walk. Australia has had a troubled history with its koalas in the past, however, and the koalas of South Australia were largely exterminated during the early 20th century. Fortunately, the state has since been repopulated. Although the koala is not a bear, English-speaking settlers from the late 18th century first called it 'koala bear' due to its similarity in appearance, and the name 'koala bear' is still in use today outside Australia.
Wombats
Although it might not be one of the first animals to leap to mind when you think of Australia, the humble wombat has become part of Australia's national landscape. As they're very adaptable in their habitat requirements, they can be found all over the country when you're out for a nature walk. Australia is a perfect habitat for wombats - although they are mainly crepuscular and nocturnal, wombats also venture out to feed on cool or overcast days. They are not commonly seen, but leave ample evidence of their passage, treating fences as minor inconveniences to be gone through or under!
Tony Maniscalco is the Sales and Marketing Manager for Ramblers Worldwide Holidays. We over 250 guided group walking holidays in over 65 different countries. Join us and walk Australia with Ramblers Worldwide Holidays, to experience scenic locations & landscapes at the best value prices.
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