Where to spot tree kangaroos in Queensland
List
By Cath Johnsen
Unlike the mythical drop bear, many people are surprised to find out that tree kangaroos are the real deal. Found only in the Atherton Tablelands and Daintree Rainforest regions of Tropical North Queensland, there are two species to look out for - the Lumholtz’s and Bennett's tree roos. These extraordinary creatures can bound like a kangaroo and nurture joeys in their pouches, but feed on leaves rather than grass and sleep in trees like koalas.
And because they spend most of their time in the leafy canopies of densely forested areas, they can be very difficult to spot in the wild. Here's our pick of the best places to spy a tree roo, both in their natural habitat and in captivity.
Where to see a Lumholtz’s tree kangaroo in the wild
Curtain Fig Tree, Cairns & Great Barrier Reef
Curtain Fig National Park, Yungaburra
The main attraction of this national park is an enormous, 50-metre curtain fig tree with draping aerial roots that create a spectacular sight. But if you look carefully, you may notice a possum-like face or two hidden in the foliage. Tree kangaroos are often spotted here, alongside other mammals, birds and reptiles. If you can’t see one during the day, try returning at night with a low wattage torch and look for pairs of shining eyes. The curtain fig tree is accessible via a timber boardwalk.
Malanda Falls Visitor Centre, Malanda
Set right beside the Malanda Falls Conservation Park and open seven days, the Malanda Falls Visitor Centre features a taxidermic tree roo display that allows you to look at the animal’s incredible features up close, including its long and pendulous tail. The volunteers at the centre can then point you to the rainforest walking tracks outside which take in the stunning waterfall. Look up as you meander along the trail and you may find a pair of tree roo eyes staring back at you.
Where to see a Bennett’s tree kangaroo in the wild
Mangkalba (Cedar Bay), Ngalba Bulal National Park, south of Cooktown
Not as commonly sighted as the Lumholtz’s tree kangaroos, the Bennett’s tree kangaroo is heftier in size and is known to frequent this remote national park, located approximately 40 km south of Cooktown. Seeing one in the wild is a real treat, as there are none currently held in captivity. You may also be lucky enough to see a cassowary here, foraging for food on the rainforest floor.
Where to see a Lumholtz’s tree kangaroo in captivity
Wildlife Habitat, Cairns & Great Barrier Reef
Wildlife Habitat, Port Douglas
If you’ve had no luck with a sighting in the wild, you can be guaranteed a look at a Lumholtz’s Tree Kangaroo at Wildlife Habitat in Port Douglas. Take the Savannah tour to find out little-known information about the species, like the fact that it not only hops, but can also walk bipedally with its hind legs, similarly to humans. This immersive north Queensland wildlife park has also successfully bred tree kangaroos.
Rainforestation Nature Park, Kuranda
Jimmy the rescued Lumholtz’s tree kangaroo was found to have a vision impairment, and so couldn’t be returned to the wild. Now he spends his days at Rainforestation Nature Park where he enjoys a good scratch from his keepers and his favourite food – figs! There’s plenty of other Aussie animals to meet at this wildlife park too, including koalas, kangaroos, dingoes, Tasmanian devils and cassowaries.
Dreamworld, Gold Coast
Dreamworld, Gold Coast. Photo by @dreamworld_wildlife_foundation
One of the under-rated aspects of Australia’s biggest theme park is Dreamworld’s Corrobboree Wildlife area. Here you’ll find a large array of Australian wildlife – from crocodiles to bilbies – and their dedicated keepers that offer regular talks so you can learn more about each animal. Dreamworld have four Lumholtz’s tree kangaroos and even offer guests the opportunity to pet and feed one (extra fees apply). Please note, this experience is currently not available due to COVID-19 restrictions.
David Fleay Wildlife Park, Gold Coast
Stroll along boardwalks through tranquil rainforest and bushlands to view an array of endemic species at the David Fleay Wildlife Park, including the bridled nail-tailed wallaby, which was thought to be extinct for more than 30 years! You can also chat to the wildlife rangers that care for the animals, and of course, drop in on their resident Lumholtz’s tree kangaroos.
Queensland Museum, Brisbane
If you don’t have time to search the rainforests of North Queensland for tree roos, you can simply visit the Queensland Museum’s Wild State exhibition to view taxidermic specimens of both the Lumholtz’s and Bennett's tree kangaroos. This impressive and free exhibition not only features tree kangaroos but showcases the incredible diversity of creatures that call Queensland home.
Tree kangaroos are active day and night, so please be careful when driving through their habitats. If you find an injured or deceased tree kangaroo, call the Tree Roo Rescue and Conservation Centre on 0427790694.
Feature image: @australian_wildlife_education
