Phillip Island, with its natural landscapes and exciting wildlife, is surely the Australian tourist’s paradise. Actually, the island is known for its wildlife and its wildlife conservation, inviting vacationers to meet such residents as friendly koalas, playful seals and the Fairy Penguins. You might be entertained by the Penguin Parade or you might take the Cape Woolamai Cruise but there is something for everyone whether it is a day trip or the keen ones interested in the wildlife.
The Little Penguins at the Phillip Island Penguin Parade
Besides, any trip to this Australian island would be incomplete without attending the Penguin Parade which is arguably the highlight of this island resort. At Summerland Beach everyday there is a large gathering of visitors to watch Fairy Penguins (the world’s littlest species of penguins) come home from the ocean to nest which has become one of the island’s attractions. This wildlife paradise features just such a activity as watching lovely penguins safe in their little houses after their fishing activities for the Bass Strait. This fantastic Phillip Island Penguin Parade is equally enhanced thanks to knowledgeable guides who provide various details about penguins’ lifestyles, meals, and orientation particularly related to habitat conservation.
And although this is such a wonderful experience for one to do, you will see the very important role played by Phillip Island Nature Parks to safeguard the Fairy Penguins for a very long time. The Penguin Parade will certainly please any lover of the wildlife as the enclosed penguins can be viewed from the platforms and boardwalks which are at a conduct that does not disturb the animals.
Koalas at the Koala Conservation Reserve
While at the Koala Conservation Reserve, vacationers are able to walk on high structures called tree-top boardwalks passing through wetlands of eucalyptus trees looking out for koalas. Koalas are well known throughout Australia. This reserve has been designed to keep all the koalas safe from the dangers caused by housing or deforestation.
You would be surprised to find out how such lazy creatures found in eucalypt trees nibbling on leaves can be up close to you. This reserve aims at raising awareness of koala rehabilitation and at the same time coves other animals making it very inner enjoyable walking through beautiful bush land. Becoming fully immersed in the atmosphere so people can admire koalas in their natural environment and learn about the ecosystems that surround them is possible from the top level of the structure.
Seal Watching at Seal Rocks and the Colony of Fur Seals
Just a little off the shore of Phillip Island is Seal Rocks, which is home to the largest colony of fur seals in Australia. The seals display cheerful postures, for example, basking on the decayed substratum or swimming in the water. This can be achieved by taking a 90 minutes boat trip or a scenic boat cruise around the Seal Rocks including the Australian fur seals in the exploration.
Experienced guides accompany the Phillip Island Tour and will explain to the visitors about the seals’ habits and way of living. Watching the seals’ social structure, inclusive of hanging out on the rocks, frolic swimming, and coming up for fresh air is quite a treat for visitors exploring one of the cutest marine animals in Australia. In addition, the boat ride and seal watching experience is enhanced by the beauty of Bass Strait and the wonderful views of the rugged rugged shores of Phillip Island.
Birdwatching at Swan Lake and Cape Woolamai
For the people who have an interest in bird watching, Swan Lake and Cape Woolamai are two places that should be on the checklist. Swan Lake is a pristine wetland area that is host to a number of birds such as the black swans, ducks and the migratory species. The serene environment and the strategically located viewing hides are perfect for bird watching. Don’t forget your binoculars in order to see the birds up close as well as the lovely views of the waters.
Cape Woolamai boasts of pink granite cliffs and expansive sea views and is another area in Phillip Island that is nature related. As for its coastal landscape and picturesque views, this place is ideal for bird watching or just relaxing in the beauty of Phillip island’s nature. Dominated by coastal vegetation, the area is also abundant in seabirds and you may even see the huge peregrine falcon flying high atop the cliffs.
Whale Watching and Marine Adventures
From May to October, Phillip Island becomes one of the top whale watching spots in Australia. During this period up to two species of whales, the humpback whales and the southern right whales, pass through the waters around the island and Pyramid Rock is said to be the best place to see these magnificent creatures. It is breathtaking to watch the enormous bodies of these sea mammals breach the surface and blow water and reminds us the interesting marine life the surrounds the island.
Ocean Adventures Phillip Island provides offered excursions with beautiful views of the coastline, boat excursions to the open sea with the possibility of meeting whales, dolphins, seals and a variety of colony birds. This is one of the best exhilarating adventurous activities that Phillip Island has so far with beautiful animal adventures and wonderful views of the ocean.
Churchill Island Heritage Farm: A Step Back in Time
Island chic History lovers will find history buff, wildlife enthusiasts as well as those who would like to experience farming without the sweat and long hours, just a short drive from Phillip Island. At the Churchill Island Heritage Farm which is on Active island, visitors can partake in rural colonial life. Some of the activities are sheep shearing, cow hand and general meeting baby farm animals like lambs and calves.
In this working farm there are also several activities like farming activities, tasting tvicing inclined with agriculture and dog sheeping. In addition to this, while venturing in the farm you will also be able to take in the picturesque Churchill Island with all its green pastures and historic structures with views of the Bass straight. Such a location is suitable for combining history, wildlife, and fun activities which is a perfect stop for travelers who want to learn about Australian country life as well as see some wildlife.
Maru Koala and Animal Park: A Family Favorite
If your family wants to get down and dirty with animals, then Maru Koala and Animal Park is a place to put on your itinerary. This family oriented tourism activity has many Austrlaian’s animals including kangaroos, wallabys, dingoes and emus. Children are able to feed and play with many of the animals adding to their experience in the trip.
The park also holds educational lectures and displays including the animal vocalisation, animal behavior demonstrations and conserving animals. Maru Koala and Animal Park centers around children, however it knows that there are adults too bringing them fun as well with many chances to meet native animals.
The Antarctic Journey at The Nobbies
Australian Antarctic Journey at The Nobbies is a virtual experience for the visitors, which enables him to visit the cold and remote region of the Antarctica. This interactive display is an initiative that is done by Phillip Island Nature Parks together with the WWF-Australia, which aims at making the visitors of the display aware of climate change and its effect to the wildlife of the earth. The exhibit also allows the audience to go on a virtual tour of the extreme continent, where one can see what it is seemingly like in the coldest and barren regions.
After looking at the exhibition, you may wish to go outside and see the beautiful views of the cliffs and reviews of the coastal boardwalks and The Nobbies from which you may sight Australian brown fur seals and sea birds.
Conservation Initiatives by Phillip Island Nature Parks
Phillip Island Nature Parks has a very important part in the conservation of the natural environment as well as the conservation of the animals found on the island. The species range depends on the conservation strategy being implemented, from captive breeding of the IUCN listed Fairy Penguins and even rebuilding ecosystems and educating the people of the island about conservation. Eco-tourism practice promotes conservation efforts as tourists are educated on the local ecosystems and wildlife through organized wildlife tours and donations to such schemes.
The Australian Wildlife Health Centre at Phillip Island Nature Parks has an important function too, in the where care of ill or orphaned imperiled animals is provided. It looks after various species such as Koalas, birds, seals and penguins all of which helps in sustaining these species for the future.
Conclusion
From the liveliest Penguin Parade to the most peaceful Koala Conservation Reserve, Phillip Island is the place to go if people wish to enjoy close encounters of the Australian animals. The islands not only biologically rich resources but also its concern for development is what appeals to every naturalist, animal lover and eco tourist. Philllip Island definitely showcases the best when it comes to wildlife whether one is taking in the magnificent views of the rugged coast on a Cape Woolamai Cruise or engaging in a serene stroll at Swan Lake.
FAQs
When’s the best season to visit Phillip Island for wildlife?
During the warmer months between December and February is the best time to visit expecting the koalas and penguins as these are most active. Plan your whale watching visit between May and October.
Am I able to make a day trip to Phillip Island from Melbourne?
Of course, Phillip Island is a mere 90 minutes of driving from Melbourne, therefore it is a perfect location for a day visit.
How do the ecological practices in Phillip Island help protect wildlife?
Hill Engineer Park performs several conservation activities, including repopulation, habitat protection, and education of the people about the islands and their adorable animals: penguins, seals, koalas.
Are there any exciting things to do in Phillip Island for families?
Yes, Ocean Adventures Phillip Island has fun filled natural and water based activities for family such as sightseeing, wildlife and ecotours. In addition, Maru Koala and Animal Park offers children friendly activities with some of the animals.
Where can Penguins be found on Phillip Island?
The best place to watch the world’s smallest penguins (Fairy Penguins) coming back to their homes in sandy burrows at twilight is to attend the Penguin Parade Summerland Beach.
