Hamilton Island, located in the heart of the Great Barrier Reef on Australia’s east coast, is well known for its stunning beaches, luxury resorts, and wide range of activities. However, the island is also home to an abundance of unique Australian wildlife. Keep reading to learn more about the many species of animals that inhabit Hamilton Island.
Mammals
There are several species of mammals that live on Hamilton Island. Some of the most notable include:
- Kangaroos – Herds of eastern grey kangaroos can be seen around the island’s golf course and airport.
- Wallabies – Agile wallabies and swamp wallabies are commonly spotted in bushland areas.
- Possums – Brushtail and ringtail possums emerge at night to forage for food.
- Flying foxes – These large bats roost in trees during the day and fly out at dusk.
- Echidnas – The shy short-beaked echidna can sometimes be found snuffling through leaf litter.
Other mammal species present but less frequently seen include dunnarts, bandicoots, rats, and mice. With over 30 species of native mammals on Hamilton Island, there are plenty of furry creatures to spot!
Birds
As an important seabird rookery and migratory route, Hamilton Island hosts many species of resident and visiting birds. Some birds to look out for include:
- White-bellied sea eagles – These majestic raptors are regularly seen soaring above or perched in trees.
- Torresian crows – Curious and clever, these all-black crows are common across the island.
- Rainbow lorikeets – These colorful parrots squawk loudly while feeding on fruits and flowers.
- Australasian figbirds – The bright red eyes of the figbird make it easy to identify.
- Satin bowerbirds – The male builds an arched twig “bower” to attract mates.
In addition, the island provides habitat and food sources for honeyeaters, whistlers, scrubfowl, herons, sandpipers, gulls, terns, and many more bird varieties throughout the year.
Reptiles
Reptiles crawling, slithering, and swimming around Hamilton Island include:
- Green tree snakes – This slender bright green snake often rests in branches and trees overhanging water.
- Carpet pythons – These non-venomous snakes can grow up to 3 meters long.
- Geckos – Multiple gecko species are present, often seen on windows or walls at night.
- Skinks – Blue-tongued lizards dart through the undergrowth.
- Dragons – Eastern water dragons bask on rocks near waterways.
Other lizards, snakes, and turtles inhabit the island as well, but are less frequently encountered by visitors.
Marine Life
Under the sea surrounding Hamilton Island, an abundance of marine life thrives on the Great Barrier Reef. Here are some incredible animals that may be spotted:
- Clownfish – Vibrant orange clownfish can be seen nestled in anemones.
- Parrotfish – These colorful fish play a vital role in breaking down coral.
- Sea turtles – Large green sea turtles often swim through the island’s waters.
- Stingrays – Spotted eagle rays and blue-spotted fantail rays live on the seafloor.
- Sharks – Mostly harmless wobbegong and epaulette sharks occur around the island.
The surrounding reefs also contain many other fish, crustaceans, echinoderms, mollusks, and marine mammals like dolphins and dugongs.
| Animal | Description | Where Found |
|---|---|---|
| Kangaroo | Large marsupial with powerful hind legs, long tail, small arms, and strong neck and shoulders. Coat color ranges from grey to brown. | Open grassy areas like golf courses and airport. |
| Lorikeet | Small, fast-flying parrot with a short tail, pointed wings, and a loris-like head. Brightly colored with green, blue, orange and yellow. | Forest and woodland areas where fruit and nectar are available. |
| Sea Eagle | Large, mostly brown raptor with a white head and breast and yellow eyes, beak, and feet. 2 meter wingspan. | Coastlines, open water, and tall trees. |
| Sea Turtle | Reptile with a hard shell, flippers for swimming, and a beaked head. Average 1.5 meter long green variety most common. | Open ocean around island and coral reefs. |
| Gecko | Small, usually nocturnal lizard with large lidless eyes, sticky toe pads, and sometimes colorful patterns on body. Various species. | Trees, shrubs, human structures like walls and windows. |
| Clownfish | Brightly colored orange and white striped fish with black outlines and yellow fins. Average 10 centimeters long. | Amongst sea anemones in coral reefs. |
When to See Wildlife
The best times of day to spot wildlife on Hamilton Island are early in the morning or in the late afternoon to early evening. Animals tend to lay low during the heat of midday. Some nocturnal creatures like possums and geckos are more active after sunset.
Certain months of the year also lend themselves better to wildlife watching. During the dry winter season between June and October, animals congregate around available water sources, making them easier to spot. Spring between September and November is breeding season, so there is more animal activity. Migratory birds are most abundant during the southern summer.
Where to See Wildlife
While wildlife can pop up almost anywhere, the best places to spot native species on Hamilton Island include:
- Bush trails – Birds, reptiles, and marsupials can all be seen on forested walking tracks like Passage Peak Trail.
- Beaches – Shorebirds scavenge in the sand while waterbirds like herons wade in the shallows.
- Creeks – Freshwater crocodiles and turtles inhabit creeks like Middle Beach Creek.
- Resort grounds – Brightly colored birds feed on the fruits of garden plants at the island resorts.
- Boat trips – Whale watching, reef, and glass-bottom boat tours offer views of marine creatures.
Visitors should keep an eye out for wildlife anywhere outdoors on Hamilton Island but can increase their chances by heading to these spots.
Wildlife Safety
When observing the island’s wildlife, it is important not to disturb or handle the animals. Getting too close can harm both you and them. Follow these tips for safe wildlife viewing:
- Keep your distance and use binoculars for close-up views.
- Never feed or touch wild animals – it promotes aggressive behavior.
- Be aware of your surroundings to avoid surprising animals.
- Watch where you step and place your hands to avoid snakes and spiders.
- Store food away from camps and accommodations so it doesn’t attract unwanted wildlife.
- Closely supervise children and pets so they don’t approach or chase animals.
Respecting wildlife and giving them adequate space ensures they are not disrupted and remain safe. This allows visitors to responsibly observe the island’s many amazing native animals.
Conclusion
From lazy lizards soaking up the sun’s rays to vibrant parrots squawking overhead, Hamilton Island is filled with an array of Australian wildlife. Visitors can spot kangaroos, wallabies, possums, flying foxes, birdlife, sea turtles, and more unique species on land and sea. The best times and places to see animals are early morning and late afternoon around water sources, beaches, resort gardens, and on boat tours. Be sure to observe wildlife safely from a distance for a memorable Aussie experience.
