85 Australian Animals You Should Know

Australia is home to some of the most interesting and unique animals on the planet. From the kangaroo to the platypus, there are 85 different Australian animals you should know about!

However, not all these animals are living; some are extinct. Australia is known for having one of the harshest climates, and many animals don’t survive because of competition for resources.

So, it’s best to know what animals originate from or live in Australia today.

This blog post will describe each of these animals in detail, including their ancestors and family tree.

We will also discuss what type of foods they eat and how they live. So without further ado, let’s get started!

Table of Contents

1. Kangaroo

Kangaroo
LCAT Productions / Shutterstock

The kangaroo is an Australian icon. These unique marsupials are easily recognizable by their large, powerful hind legs, tail, and furry ears.

Kangaroos are found throughout the country, in woodlands, grasslands, and even deserts.

Kangaroos are native to Australia and Papua New Guinea. The closest relatives to the Kangaroo are wallabies, wallaroos, opossum-like creatures, and marsupials.

They mainly eat grass, leaves, ferns, flowers, and fruit.

Australia is very proud of its kangaroos. In fact, they are also the national animal! Kangaroos are not dangerous to humans, but their very powerful kicks can pack quite a punch.

So, it’s best not to mess with one if you run into one.

2. Platypus

platypus
John Carnemolla / Shutterstock

The platypus is a strange and fascinating creature. Found only in Australia, this unusual animal has a bill like a duck, webbed feet, and a furry body.

The platypus is a good swimmer and can be found in rivers and streams throughout the country.

Platypus is a native creature to Australia. Its closest relative is the echidna, a type of mammal called the monotremes.

Its main diet is small water animals such as larvae, shrimp, and crayfish.

Platypuses are probably the weirdest animal on this list. But they are still really cool and play an important part in Australia’s ecosystem!

3. Koala

Koala
antarctica / Shutterstock

The koala is a cute and cuddly Australian animal that looks like a cross between a teddy bear and a monkey.

Koalas are found in woodlands and forests throughout the country and spend most of their time high up in the trees.

Koalas are native to Eastern Australia, mainly Queensland, NSW, and Victoria. Its latest ancestor is from the Phascolarctidae family, meaning wombats are its closest relatives.

Koalas often eat eucalyptus leaves, Pogostemon, melaleuca, and corymbs trees.

4. Red Bellied Black Snake

Red Bellied Black Snake
Ken Griffiths / Shutterstock

The red-bellied black snake is a venomous snake found in Australia. These snakes are black with a red or orange belly and can grow up to 2 meters long.

Red-bellied black snakes are found in forests and swamps throughout the country.

The red-bellied black snake is a native Australian reptile. It is related to other venomous snakes such as the tiger, brown, and Death Adder.

These snakes feed on frogs, lizards, small mammals, and birds.

5. Echidna

Cassowary
Paul Looyen / Shutterstock

The echidna is another strange and unique Australian animal. Also known as the spiny anteater, the echidna is covered in spikes and has a long snout.

These curious creatures are found in woodlands and forests throughout Australia.

The echidna is a native Australian mammal. Its closest relative is the platypus. These animals mainly eat ants and termites.

6. Cassowary

Cassowary
Kensho Photographic / Shutterstock

The cassowary is a large and colorful bird found in the rainforests of Australia. These birds are easily recognizable by their bright blue heads and red wattles.

Cassowaries are shy and elusive, and they are also known to be very dangerous.

The cassowary is a native Australian bird. Its closest relative is the emu. These birds feed on fruits, leaves, and insects.

7. Wombat

Wombat
Martin Pelanek / Shutterstock

The wombat is a short-legged, stocky Australian animal that looks like a cross between a bear and a rodent.

These creatures are found in woodlands and forests throughout the country and are known for their burrowing habits.

The wombat is a native Australian marsupial. Its closest relative is the koala. These animals mainly eat grass, roots, and bark.

8. Emu

Emu
colacat / Shutterstock

The emu is a large bird that is native to Australia. These birds are the second largest in the world and can grow up to 2 meters tall.

Emus are found in woodlands and grasslands throughout Australia.

The emu is a native Australian bird. Its closest relative is the cassowary. These birds mainly eat plants and insects.

9. Blobfish

The blobfish is a strange and ugly creature that lives in the deep waters off the coast of Australia.

These fish are known for their gelatinous bodies and sad, droopy faces. Despite their appearance, blobfish are quite gentle creatures.

The blobfish is a native Australian fish. Its closest relative is the anglerfish. These fish feed on small crustaceans and mollusks.

10. Blue Tongue Lizard

Blue tongue Lizard
dwi putra stock / Shutterstock

The blue tongue lizard is a large lizard that is found in Australia. These lizards are easily recognizable by their blue tongues and can grow to be up to 60cm long.

Blue tongue lizards are found in woodlands and forests throughout the country.

The blue tongue lizard is a native Australian reptile. Its closest relative is the monitor lizard. These lizards feed on insects, small mammals, and birds.

11. Dingo

Dingo
Arun Sankaragal / Shutterstock

The dingo is a wild dog that is found in Australia. These dogs are often golden or red in color and can grow up to 60cm tall.

Dingoes are found in woodlands and deserts throughout the country.

The dingo is a native Australian mammal. Its closest relative is the domestic dog. These animals mainly eat kangaroos, wallabies, feral pigs, and small mammals.

12. Quokka

Quokka
Chia Chuin Wong / Shutterstock

The quokka is a small marsupial found on the island of Rottnest off the coast of Australia. These cute little creatures are easily recognizable by their round ears and furry bodies.

Quokkas are found in woodlands and forests on the island.

The quokka is a native Australian marsupial. Its closest relative is the wallaby. These animals mainly eat grasses, leaves, stems, and bark.

13. Tasmanian Devil

Tasmanian Devil
james_stone76 / Shutterstock

The Tasmanian devil is a small marsupial that is found only in Tasmania. These animals are easily recognizable by their black fur and their loud screeching cries.

Tasmanian devils are found in woodlands and forests throughout the island.

The Tasmanian devil is a native Australian marsupial. Its closest relative is the quoll. These animals mainly eat small mammals and birds.

14. Kookaburra

Kookaburra
Ken Griffiths / Shutterstock

The kookaburra is a large bird that is found in Australia. These birds are easily recognizable by their distinctive calls, which sound like laughter.

Kookaburras are found in woodlands and forests throughout the country.

The Kookaburra is native to the Eucalyptus forests in Eastern Australia. They are terrestrial tree kingfishers and descendants of the genus Dacelo found in Australia and New Guinea.

Its diet is mainly snakes, lizards, small mammals, and insects.

15. Crocodile

Crocodile
Audrey Snider-Bell / Shutterstock

The crocodile is a large reptile found in Australia. These animals are found in freshwater rivers and lakes and can grow up to 7 meters long.

Crocodiles are dangerous predators, and they should be avoided at all costs.

The crocodile is a native Australian reptile. Its closest relative is the alligator. These animals mainly eat fish, reptiles, and mammals

16. Eastern Brown Snake

Eastern Brown snake
Ken Griffiths / Shutterstock

The eastern brown snake is a venomous snake that is found in Australia. These snakes are brown in color and can grow to be up to 2 meters long.

Eastern brown snakes are found in woodlands and grasslands throughout the country.

The Eastern Brown Snake is native to eastern and central Australia and Southern New Guinea.

Its latest ancestors were from marine or amphibious animals. Its main diet is mainly small rodents and birds.

17. Box Jellyfish

box jellyfish
Dewald Kirsten / Shutterstock

The box jellyfish is a dangerous creature found in the waters off the coast of Australia. These jellyfish are transparent, and they can grow to be up to 20cm long.

Box jellyfish are found in oceans and seas throughout the world.

The Box jellyfish is native to the Indo-Pacific oceans. It is related to corals, anemones, and hydroids.

Its diet consists of small fish, shrimp, and plankton.

18. Wallaby

Wallaby
Kevin Wells Photography / Shuttersock

The wallaby is a small marsupial that is found in Australia. These animals are similar to kangaroos, but they are smaller in size.

Wallabies are found in woodlands and forests throughout the country.

The wallaby is a native Australian marsupial. Its closest relative is the kangaroo. These animals mainly eat grasses, leaves, and shrubs.

19. Possum

Wallaby
Cornelis JC Van Rooyen / Shutterstock

The possum is a small marsupial that is found in Australia. These animals are easily recognizable by their fluffy tails and pointy ears.

Possums are found in woodlands and forests throughout the country.

The possum is a native Australian marsupial. Its closest relative is the opossum. These animals mainly eat insects, fruits, and leaves.

20. Tasmanian Tiger

Tasmanian Tiger
AppleEyesStudio / Shutterstock

The Tasmanian tiger is a large marsupial that was once found in Tasmania. These animals are easily recognizable by their striped fur and can grow up to 2 meters long.

The last known Tasmanian tiger died in 1936, and the species is now extinct.

The Tasmanian Tiger was native to Tasmania and the Australian mainland. Its closest relative was thylacine.

These animals mainly ate small mammals and birds.

21. Lyrebird

Lyrebird
Anzhe / Shutterstock

The lyrebird is a large bird that is found in Australia. These birds are easily recognizable by their long tail feathers, which resemble a lyre.

Lyrebirds are found in woodlands and forests throughout the country.

The Lyrebird is native to Australia and New Guinea. Its closest relatives are the bowerbirds. These animals mainly eat insects, spiders, and worms.

22. Sugar Glider

Sugar Glider
Manop Boonpeng / Shutterstock

The sugar glider is a small marsupial that is found in Australia. These animals are easily recognizable by their furry bodies and their gliding abilities.

Sugar gliders are found in woodlands and forests throughout the country.

The sugar glider is a native Australian marsupial. Its closest relative is the greater glider. These animals mainly eat insects, sap, and nectar.

23. Red Kangaroo

Red Kangaroo
Benny Marty / Shutterstock

The red kangaroo is the largest marsupial that is found in Australia. These animals are reddish-brown in color, and they can grow to be up to 2 meters tall.

Red kangaroos are found in woodlands and grasslands throughout the country.

The red kangaroo is a native Australian marsupial. Its closest relative is the antilopine kangaroo. These animals eat grasses and leaves.

24. Stonefish

Stonefish
Vladimir Wrangel / Shutterstock

The stonefish is a dangerous creature found in the waters off the coast of Australia. These fish are easily recognizable by their stone-like appearance and can grow up to 30cm long.

Stonefish are found in oceans and seas throughout the world.

The stonefish is a native Australian fish. Its closest relative is the weeverfish. These animals mainly eat small fish and crustaceans.

25. Thorny Devil

Thorny Devil
Bildagentur Zoonar GmbH / Shutterstock

The thorny devil is a small lizard found in Australia. These animals are easily recognizable by their spiky bodies and can grow up to 20cm long.

Thorny devils are found in deserts throughout the country.

The thorny devil is a native Australian lizard. Its closest relative is the Moloch horridus. These animals mainly eat ants and termites.

26. Antechinus

Antechinus
Ecopix / Shutterstock

The antechinus is a small marsupial that is found in Australia. These animals are easily recognizable by their furry bodies and their pointy noses.

Antechinus is found in woodlands and forests throughout the country.

The antechinus is a native Australian marsupial. Its closest relative is the mouse. These animals mainly eat insects and spiders.

27. Mimic Octopus

Mimic Octopus
DiveIvanov / Shutterstock

The mimic octopus is a small creature found in the waters off the coast of Australia. These octopuses are easily recognizable by their ability to change their appearance and can grow up to 30cm long.

Mimic octopuses are found in oceans and seas throughout the world.

The mimic octopus is a native Australian octopus. Its closest relative is the common octopus. These animals mainly eat crabs and shrimp.

28. Greater Bilby

Greater Bilby
Ken Griffiths / Shutterstock

The greater bilby is a small marsupial that is found in Australia. These animals are easily recognizable by their long ears and can grow to be up to 60cm long.

Greater bilbies are found in deserts throughout the country.

The greater bilby is a native Australian marsupial. Its closest relative is the bandicoot. These animals mainly eat insects and seeds.

29. Cuttlefish

Cuttlefish
John Back / Shutterstock

The cuttlefish is a small creature found in the waters off the coast of Australia. These animals are easily recognizable by their ability to change their appearance, and they can grow to be up to 30cm long.

Cuttlefish are found in oceans and seas throughout the world.

The cuttlefish is a native Australian fish. Its closest relative is the squid. These animals mainly eat small fish and crustaceans.

30. Corroboree Frog

Corroboree Frog
Ken Griffiths / Shutterstock

The corroboree frog is a small amphibian that is found in Australia. These animals are easily recognizable by their colorful bodies and can grow to be up to 5cm long.

Corroboree frogs are found in woodlands and forests throughout the country.

Corroboree Frogs are native to the Southern Tablelands of Australia. They are small, poisonous, and ground-dwelling.

Their main diet includes a small range of insects such as black ants, insect larva, and mites.

31. Black Swan

black Swan
Pics by Chris Richardson / Shutterstock

The black swan is a large bird that is found in Australia. These birds are easily recognizable by their black feathers and can grow up to 1.5 meters long.

Black swans are found in wetlands throughout the country.

A black swan is native to the southeast and southwest of Australia. Its main diet follows that of herbivores.

It feeds on vegetation in the water and on land.

32. Marsupial Mole

The marsupial mole is a small marsupial that is found in Australia. These animals are easily recognizable by their furry bodies and their long noses.

Marsupial moles are found in deserts throughout the country.

The marsupial mole is a native Australian marsupial. Its closest relative is the echidna. These animals mainly eat insects and spiders.

33. Swift Parrot

Swift Parrot
Susan Flashman / Shutterstock

The swift parrot is a small bird found in Australia. These birds are easily recognizable by their colorful plumage and can grow up to 20cm long.

Swift parrots are found in woodlands and forests throughout the country.

The Swift Parrot is native to Southeastern Australia and can’t be found anywhere else. Its best ancestor match seems to be the Prosepeia, Eunymphicus, and Cynaramphus.

The bird mainly survives by eating nectar, psyllids, lerps, seeds, and flowers.

34. Gouldian Finch

Gouldian Finch
Vladimir Sazonov / Shutterstock

The Gouldian Finch is a small bird that is found in Australia. These birds are easily recognizable by their colorful plumage and can grow up to 15cm long.

Gouldian finches are found in woodlands and forests throughout the country.

The Gouldian Finch is native to Australia and New Guinea. It was named after the ornithologist John Gould. These birds mainly eat grass and seeds.

35. Numbat

Numbat
Ken Griffiths / Shutterstock

The numbat is a small marsupial that is found in Australia. These animals are easily recognizable by their striped bodies and can grow to be up to 40cm long.

Numbats are found in woodlands and forests throughout the country.

The numbat is a native Australian marsupial. Its closest relative is the bandicoot. These animals mainly eat ants and termites.

36. Leadbeater’s Possum

Leadbeater's Possum
Chris Watson / Shutterstock

The Leadbeater’s possum is a small marsupial that is found in Australia. These animals are easily recognizable by their furry bodies and can grow to be up to 35cm long.

Leadbeater’s possums are found in forests throughout the country.

The Leadbeater’s Possum is a native Australian marsupial. Its closest relative is the common brushtail possum.

These animals mainly eat leaves, buds, and flowers.

37. Spotted Quoll

Spotted Quoll
Craig Dingle / Shutterstock

The spotted quoll is a small marsupial found in Australia. These animals are easily recognizable by their furry bodies and spots and can grow up to 60cm long.

Spotted quolls are found in forests throughout the country.

The Spotted Quoll is a native Australian marsupial. Its closest relative is the Tasmanian devil. These animals mainly eat small mammals, birds, reptiles, and insects.

38. Gilbert’s Potoroo

Gilbert's Potoroo
David Whidborne / Shutterstock

Gilbert’s Potoroo is a small marsupial that is found in Australia. These animals are easily recognizable by their furry bodies and can grow to be up to 35cm long.

Gilbert’s potoroos are found in forests throughout the country.

Gilbert’s Potoroo is a native Australian marsupial. Its closest relative is the bettong. These animals mainly eat roots, tubers, and insects.

39. Dugong

Dugong
vkilikov / Shutterstock

The dugong is a large mammal found in the waters off the coast of Australia. These animals are easily recognizable by their long tails and can grow up to 4 meters long.

Dugongs are found in oceans and seas throughout the world.

The Dugong is a native Australian mammal. Its closest relative is the manatee. These animals are herbivores and mainly eat seagrass.

40. Brushtail Possum

Brushtail Possum
Lowell Hendrix / Shutterstock

The Brushtail Possum is a small marsupial that is found in Australia. These animals are easily recognizable by their furry bodies and can grow to be up to 60cm long.

Brushtail possums are found in forests throughout the country.

The Brushtail Possum is native to Australia but has also migrated to New Zealand. It is from the Phalangeridae family, mostly nocturnal marsupials native to both New Guinea and Eastern Indonesia.

Its main diet is leaves, buds, flowers, and fruits.

41. Bandicoot

Bandicoot
Ken Griffiths / Shutterstock

The bandicoot is a small marsupial that is found in Australia. These animals are easily recognizable by their furry bodies and can grow to be up to 60cm long.

Bandicoots are found in forests throughout the country.

The Bandicoot is a marsupial found in Australia, Indonesia, and the Solomon Islands. There are 31 species of bandicoot, of which 21 are found in Australia.

They range in size from the Mouse Bandicoot, about the size of a large rat, to the Great Desert Bandicoot, about the size of a small dog.

They are mostly nocturnal animals, and their diet consists of insects, grubs, and other small animals.

42. Night Parrot

The night parrot is a small bird that is found in Australia. These birds are easily recognizable by their green plumage and can grow up to 20cm long.

Night parrots are found in woodlands and forests throughout the country.

The Night Parrot is a native Australian bird. Its closest relative is the budgerigar. These birds are mostly nocturnal, and their diet consists of seeds, fruits, and insects.

43. Giant Clam

Giant Clam
Aaronejbull87 / Shuttersock

The giant clam is a large mollusk found in the waters off the coast of Australia. These animals are easily recognizable by their large shells and can grow up to 1 meter long.

Giant clams are found in oceans and seas throughout the world.

The Giant Clam is a native Australian mollusk. Its closest relative is the Tridacna clam. These animals are mostly sedentary, and their diet consists of phytoplankton and algae.

44. Ringtail Possum

Ringtail Possum
Ken Griffiths / Shutterstock

The ringtail possum is a small marsupial that is found in Australia. These animals are easily recognizable by their furry bodies and can grow to be up to 60cm long.

Ringtail possums are found in forests throughout the country.

The Ringtail Possum is a small marsupial found in Australia and New Guinea. It is a nocturnal animal, and its diet consists of leaves, buds, flowers, and fruits.

45. Tawny Frogmouth

Tawny Frogmouth
ShereeB / Shutterstock

The tawny frogmouth is a small bird that is found in Australia. These birds are easily recognizable by their brown plumage, and they can grow to be up to 30cm long.

Tawny frogmouths are found in woodlands and forests throughout the country.

The Tawny Frogmouth is a small bird found in Australia, Indonesia, and Papua New Guinea. These birds are mostly nocturnal, and their diet consists of insects, spiders, and small reptiles.

46. Musky Rat-Kangaroo

Musky Rat-kangaroo
feathercollector / Shutterstock

The musky rat-kangaroo is a small marsupial that is found in Australia. These animals are easily recognizable by their furry bodies and can grow to be up to 35cm long.

Musky rat-kangaroos are found in forests throughout the country.

The Musky Rat-Kangaroo is a small marsupial found in Australia and New Guinea. It is the world’s smallest member of the kangaroo family.

These animals are mostly nocturnal, and their diet consists of insects, spiders, and small reptiles.

47. Clownfish

Clownfish
Kurit afshen / Shutterstock

The clownfish is a small fish found in the waters off the coast of Australia. These animals are easily recognizable by their orange bodies and can grow to be up to 10cm long.

Clownfish are found in oceans and seas throughout the world.

The Clownfish is a small fish found in the waters off the coast of Australia. Its closest relative is the damselfish.

These animals are mostly diurnal, and their diet consists of plankton and small crustaceans.

48. Tree Kangaroo

Tree Kangaroo
Tanya Puntti / Shutterstock

The tree kangaroo is a large marsupial that is found in Australia. These animals are easily recognizable by their furry bodies, and they can grow to be up to 1 meter long.

Tree kangaroos are found in forests throughout the country.

The Tree Kangaroo is a large marsupial found in Australia, Indonesia, and Papua New Guinea. Its closest relative is the wallaby.

These animals are mostly arboreal, and their diet consists of leaves, buds, flowers, and fruits.

49. Snapping Turtle

Snapping Turtle
Tyler Clemons / Shutterstock

The snapping turtle is a large reptile that is found in the waters off the coast of Australia. These animals are easily recognizable by their large shells and can grow up to 1.5 meters long.

Snapping turtles are found in oceans and seas throughout the world.

Its closest relative is the alligator snapping turtle.

These animals are mostly nocturnal, and their diet consists of fish, crustaceans, and mollusks.

50. Stick Nest Rat

Stick nest rat
Mike Truchon / Shutterstock

The stick nest rat is a small marsupial that is found in Australia. These animals are easily recognizable by their furry bodies and can grow to be up to 35cm long.

Stick nest rats are found in forests throughout the country.

The Stick Nest Rat is a small marsupial found in Australia and New Guinea. These animals are mostly nocturnal, and their diet consists of insects, spiders, and small reptiles.

51. Antilopine Kangaroo

Antilopine Kangaroo
ChameleonsEye / Shutterstock

The antilopine kangaroo is a large marsupial that is found in Australia. These animals are easily recognizable by their furry bodies, and they can grow to be up to 1.8 meters long.

Antilopine kangaroos are found in forests throughout the country.

The Antilopine Kangaroo is a large marsupial found in Australia and New Guinea. These animals are mostly nocturnal; their diet consists of leaves, buds, flowers, and fruits.

52. Penguin

Penguin
fieldwork / Shutterstock

The penguin is a small bird found in the waters off the coast of Australia. These animals are easily recognizable by their black and white plumage and can grow up to 1 meter long.

Penguins are found in oceans and seas throughout the world.

Its closest relative is the albatross.

These animals are mostly diurnal, and their diet consists of fish, squid, and krill.

53. Lesser Bilby

The lesser bilby is a small marsupial that is found in Australia. These animals are easily recognizable by their furry bodies and can grow to be up to 35cm long.

Lesser bilbies are found in deserts throughout the country.

The Lesser Bilby is also found in New Guinea. These animals are mostly nocturnal, and their diet consists of insects, spiders, and small reptiles.

54. Woylie

woylie
Michal Sloviak / Shutterstock

The woylie is a small marsupial that is found in Australia. These animals are easily recognizable by their furry bodies and can grow to be up to 60cm long.

Woylies are found in forests throughout the country.

The Woylie is also found in New Guinea. These animals are mostly nocturnal, and their diet consists of insects, spiders, and small reptiles.

55. Flying Fox Bat

Flying Fox Bat
Martin Pelanek / Shutterstock

The flying fox bat is a large mammal that is found in Australia. These animals are easily recognizable by their furry bodies, and they can grow to be up to 1 meter long.

Flying fox bats are found in forests throughout the country.

The Flying Fox Bat is also found in New Guinea. These animals are mostly nocturnal, and their diet consists of insects, spiders, and small reptiles.

56. Cockatoo Parrot

Cockatoo Parrot
Martin Pelanek / Shutterstock

The cockatoo parrot is a small bird that is found in Australia. These animals are easily recognizable by their white plumage and can grow to be up to 60cm long.

Cockatoo parrots are found in forests throughout the country.

These animals are mostly diurnal, and their diet consists of seeds, fruits, and insects.

57. Blue-ringed Octopus

Blue-Ringed Octopus
elena_photo_soul / Shutterstock

The blue-ringed octopus is a small marine animal that is found in the waters off the coast of Australia.

These animals are easily recognizable by their blue rings and can grow up to 30cm long. Blue-ringed octopuses are found in oceans and seas throughout the world.

These animals are mostly nocturnal, and their diet consists of small fish, crustaceans, and mollusks.

58. Tiger Snake

Tige snake
Ken Griffiths / Shutterstock

The tiger snake is a large reptile that is found in Australia. These animals are easily recognizable by their striped bodies and can grow to be up to 2 meters long.

Tiger snakes are found in forests and deserts throughout the country.

These animals are mostly nocturnal, and their diet consists of small mammals, birds, and reptiles.

59. Goanna Lizard

Goanna Lizard
rweisswald / Shutterstock

The goanna lizard is a large reptile that is found in Australia. These animals are easily recognizable by their scaly bodies and can grow up to 2 meters long.

Goanna lizards are found in forests and deserts throughout the country.

These animals are mostly nocturnal, and their diet consists of small mammals, birds, and reptiles.

60. Dolphin

Dolphin
Paulphin Photography / Shutterstock

The dolphin is an aquatic mammal that is found in the waters off the coast of Australia. These animals are easily recognizable by their grey bodies, and they can grow to be up to 4 meters long.

Dolphins are found in oceans and seas throughout the world.

These animals are mostly diurnal, and their diet consists of small fish, crustaceans, and mollusks.

61. Parrotfish

Parrotfish
Tatiana Belova / Shutterstock

The parrotfish is a small fish that is found in the waters off the coast of Australia. These animals are easily recognizable by their brightly colored bodies and can grow up to 30cm long.

Parrotfish are found in oceans and seas throughout the world.

These animals are mostly diurnal, and their diet consists of algae and small invertebrates.

62. Sea Lion

Sea Lion
Daniel Avram / Shutterstock

The sea lion is a large mammal that is found in the waters off the coast of Australia. These animals are easily recognizable by their brown fur and can grow to be up to 3 meters long.

Sea lions are found in oceans and seas throughout the world.

These animals are mostly nocturnal, and their diet consists of fish, squid, and crustaceans.

63. Red-Eyed Tree Frog

Red-Eyed Tree
Brandon Alms/ Shutterstock

The red-eyed tree frog is a small amphibian that is found in Australia. These animals are easily recognizable by their red eyes and can grow to be up to 10cm long.

Red-eyed tree frogs are found in forests and jungles throughout the country.

The Red-Eyed Tree Frog is a small amphibian found in Australia and New Guinea. These animals are mostly nocturnal, and their diet consists of small insects.

64. Rakali

Rakali
Michal Sloviak / Shutterstock

The rakali is a large rodent that is found in Australia. These animals are easily recognizable by their furry bodies, and they can grow to be up to 1 meter long.

Rakalis are found in forests and wetlands throughout the country.

The Rakali is also found in New Guinea. These animals are mostly nocturnal, and their diet consists of small mammals, birds, and reptiles.

The ancestors of the rakali are unknown, but they are believed to be related to rodents.

65. Taipan

Taipan
Ken Griffiths / Shutterstock

The taipan is a large snake that is found in Australia. These animals are easily recognizable by their brown and white striped bodies and can grow up to 4 meters long.

Taipans are found in forests and deserts throughout the country.

These animals are mostly nocturnal, and their diet consists of small mammals and reptiles.

The ancestors of the taipan are unknown, but they are related to other snakes.

66. Handfish

Handfish
Joni Hanebutt/ Shutterstock

The handfish is a small fish that is found in the waters off the coast of Australia. These animals are easily recognizable by their brightly colored bodies, and they can grow to be up to 20cm long.

Handfish are found in oceans and seas throughout the world.

These fish are mostly diurnal, and their diet consists of small invertebrates.

67. Red-Fronted Parakeet

Red-Fronted Parakeet
Martin Mecnarowski / Shutterstock

The red-fronted parakeet is a small bird that is found in Australia. These animals are easily recognizable by their red plumage and can grow up to 30cm long.

Red-fronted parakeets are found in forests throughout the country.

These animals are mostly diurnal, and their diet consists of fruits, seeds, and insects.

68. Whale Shark

Whale Shark
Chainarong Phrammanee / Shutterstock

The whale shark is a large fish that is found in the waters off the coast of Australia. These animals are easily recognizable by their grey bodies, and they can grow to be up to 12 meters long.

Whale sharks are found in oceans and seas throughout the world.

The Whale Shark is a large fish found in the waters off the coast of Australia. These animals are mostly nocturnal, and their diet consists of small fish and plankton.

It’s said that the whale shark is one of the world’s biggest fishes in the world.

69. Plains Wanderer

Plains Wanderer
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The plains wanderer is a small bird that is found in Australia. These animals are easily recognizable by their brown plumage, and they can grow to be up to 20cm long.

Plains wanderers are found in grasslands throughout the country.

These animals are mostly nocturnal, and their diet consists of insects.

The ancestors of the plains wanderer are unknown, but they are a part of the Pedionmidae and Pedionomus genus.

70. Eastern Bettong

Eastern Bettong
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The eastern bettong is a small marsupial that is found in Australia. These animals are easily recognizable by their brown fur and can grow to be up to 40cm long.

Eastern bettongs are found in forests throughout the country.

The Eastern Bettong is a small marsupial found in Australia and New Guinea. These animals are mostly nocturnal, and their diet consists of plants and insects.

The animal spends most of its time awake at night and uses the grass to help camouflage its body from prey.

71. Green Turtle

Green Turtle
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The green turtle is a large reptile that is found in the waters off the coast of Australia. These animals are easily recognizable by their green shells, and they can grow to be up to 1 meter long.

Green turtles are found in oceans and seas throughout the world.

These animals are mostly diurnal, and their diet consists of seagrasses and algae. Green turtles are one of the world’s oldest reptiles and are believed to have been around for over 200 million years.

72. Mandarin Fish

Mandarin Fish
Kurit afshen / Shutterstock

The mandarin fish is a small fish that is found in the waters off the coast of Australia. These animals are easily recognizable by their brightly colored bodies, and they can grow to be up to 10cm long.

Mandarin fish are found in oceans and seas throughout the world.

These animals are mostly diurnal, and their diet consists of small invertebrates. It is believed that the mandarin fish is native to Australia.

73. Textile Cone

Textile Cone
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The textile cone is a small shellfish that is found in the waters off the coast of Australia. These animals are easily recognizable by their colorful shells and can grow to be up to 5cm long.

Textile cones are found in oceans and seas throughout the world.

These animals are mostly nocturnal, and their diet consists of small invertebrates. The invertebrates they eat include things like crabs, shrimp, and worms.

The textile cone is native to Australia.

74. Leatherback Turtle

Leatherback Turtle
catalinaug / Shutterstock

The leatherback turtle is a large reptile that is found in the waters off the coast of Australia. These animals are easily recognizable by their black shells, and they can grow to be up to 2 meters long.

Leatherback turtles are found in oceans and seas throughout the world.

These animals are mostly diurnal, and their diet consists of jellyfish. It is believed that the leatherback turtle is native to Australia.

They also enjoy eating other soft-bodied invertebrates like squid and octopuses.

75. Lionfish

Lion Fish
Vitaliy6447 / Shutterstock

The lionfish is a large fish that is found in the waters off the coast of Australia. These animals are easily recognizable by their colorful bodies, and they can grow to be up to 1 meter long.

Lionfish are found in oceans and seas throughout the world.

These animals are mostly nocturnal, and their diet consists of small fish. Lionfish are not native to Australia.

They are believed to have originated in the Indo-Pacific region.

The closest ancestors to the lionfish are the scorpionfish and the stonefish. These animals are all part of the family Scorpaenidae.

They are known to have a limited diet, including sponges, shrimp, and crabs. Lionfish are not considered to be a threat to humans.

76. Loggerhead Turtle

loggerhead Turtle
Subphoto.com / Shutterstock

The loggerhead turtle is a large reptile that is found in the waters off the coast of Australia. These animals are easily recognizable by their red shells and can grow up to 1.5 meters long.

Loggerhead turtles are found in oceans and seas throughout the world.

These animals are mostly diurnal, and their diet consists of crabs, shrimp, and other small invertebrates.

The loggerhead turtle is not native to Australia. It is believed to have originated in the Mediterranean Sea.

The loggerhead turtle is closely related to the green and leatherback turtle. These turtles are all part of the family Cheloniidae.

They are known to have a wide diet, including seagrasses, algae, and small invertebrates.

77. Peacock Mantis Shrimp

Peacock Mantis Shrimp
Maxfield Weakley/ Shutterstock

The peacock mantis shrimp is a small crustacean that is found in the waters off the coast of Australia.

These animals are easily recognizable by their brightly colored bodies, and they can grow to be up to 20cm long.

Peacock mantis shrimp are found in oceans and seas throughout the world.

These animals are mostly diurnal, and their diet consists of small fish and invertebrates. The peacock mantis shrimp is not native to Australia; it is believed to have originated in the Indo-Pacific region.

The peacock mantis shrimp is closely related to the stomatopod. These animals are all part of the order Stomatopoda.

They are known to have a wide diet, including small fish, crabs, and shrimp.

78. Sea Anemone

Sea Anemome
John A. Anderson / Shutterstock

The sea anemone is a small marine invertebrate that is found in the waters off the coast of Australia.

These animals are easily recognizable by their colorful bodies, and they can grow to be up to 30cm long.

Sea anemones are found in oceans and seas throughout the world.

These animals are mostly nocturnal, and their diet consists of small fish and invertebrates. The sea anemone is not native to Australia.

It is believed to have originated in the Indo-Pacific region. This area includes the Red Sea, the Persian Gulf, and the Indian Ocean.

The sea anemone is closely related to the coral and the jellyfish. These animals are all part of the phylum Cnidaria.

They are known to have a wide diet, including small fish, crabs, and shrimp.

79. Funnel Web Spider

Funnel Web Spider
Ken Griffiths / Shutterstock

The funnel web spider is a large spider that is found in Australia. These animals are easily recognizable by their dark brown bodies, and they can grow to be up to 5cm long.

Funnel-web spiders are found in forests throughout the country.

These animals are mostly nocturnal, and their diet consists of small insects. The funnel web spider is native to Australia.

It is believed to have originated on the continent.

The funnel web spider is closely related to the tarantula and trapdoor spiders. These spiders are all part of the family Theraphosidae.

They are known to have a wide diet, including small insects, frogs, and lizards.

80. Redback Spider

Redback Spider
whitejellybeans / Shutterstock

The redback spider is a large spider that is found in Australia. These animals are easily recognizable by their red markings and can grow to be up to 3cm long.

Redback spiders are found in forests throughout the country.

The redback spider is closely related to the black and brown widow spiders. These spiders are all part of the family Theridiidae.

They are known to have a wide diet, including small insects, frogs, and lizards. The redback spider is native to Australia.

It is believed to have originated on the continent.

81. White-bellied Sea Eagle

white-bellied sea eagle
Wang LiQiang / Shutterstock

The white-bellied sea eagle is a large bird of prey that is found in Australia. These animals are easily recognizable by their white plumage, and they can grow to be up to 1 meter long.

White-bellied sea eagles are found in forests and coastal areas throughout the country.

The white-bellied sea eagle is native to Australia. It is believed to have originated on the continent.

The white-bellied sea eagle’s diet consists of small mammals, reptiles, and birds. Its appearance is similar to that of the bald eagle.

The white-bellied sea eagle is closely related to the golden and harpy eagle. These birds of prey are all part of the family Accipitridae.

82. Brolga

Brolga

The brolga is a large bird that is found in Australia. These birds are easily recognizable by their long necks and legs. Brolgas are found in wetlands throughout the country, living in large flocks.

The brolga is a native Australian bird. It’s one of the only species of crane that has been documented as native in Australia. Its closest relative is the crane family. These birds mainly eat insects, frogs, and reptiles.

83. Rainbow Lorikeet

rainbow lorikeet
KateChris / Shutterstock

The rainbow lorikeet is a small bird that is found in Australia. These animals are easily recognizable by their brightly colored plumage and can grow up to 30cm long.

Rainbow lorikeets are found in forests and woodlands throughout the country.

The rainbow lorikeet is native to Australia. It is believed to have originated on the continent. The rainbow lorikeet’s diet consists of small mammals, reptiles, and birds.

Its appearance is similar to that of the parrot.

The rainbow lorikeet is closely related to the kookaburra and the blue-winged kookaburra. These birds are all part of the Alcedinidae family.

Its appearance is also similar to the parrot.

84. Crocodylidae

Crocodylidae
Aeas ja / Shutterstock

While we’ve already mentioned crocodiles, the Crocodylidae is a family of reptiles that includes crocodiles, alligators, and caimans. These animals are found in tropical and subtropical regions of the world, including Australia.

Crocodiles are easily recognized by their long snouts and thick bodies, while alligators have shorter snouts and more slender bodies.

Caimans are similar to alligators, but they are smaller in size.

The Crocodylidae family is native to Australia. These animals are believed to have originated on the continent.

The Crocodylidae’s diet consists of small mammals, reptiles, and birds. Its appearance is similar to that of the lizard.

The Crocodylidae family is closely related to the Gavialidae family, which includes the gharial. These families are both parts of the order Crocodilia.

85. Perentie monitor lizard

 perentie monitor lizard
Samantha Haebich / Shutterstock

The perentie monitor lizard is a large lizard that is found in Australia. These animals are easily recognizable by their long necks and tails, and they can grow to be up to 2 meters long.

Perentie monitor lizards are found in forests and woodlands throughout the country.

The perentie monitor lizard is native to Australia. It is believed to have originated on the continent.

The perentie monitor lizard’s diet consists of small mammals, reptiles, and birds. Its appearance is similar to that of the Komodo dragon.

The perentie monitor lizard is closely related to the water and grassland monitor. These lizards are all part of the Varanidae family.

Its appearance is also similar to the Komodo dragon.

How Many Species of Animals Does Australia Have?

Australia is home to various animals, including mammals, reptiles, birds, and amphibians. There are over 386 species of animals that are found in the country.

Some of these animals are native to Australia, while others have been introduced to the continent at some point in history.

Most of the animals found in Australia are native to the continent. This includes animals such as the kangaroo, the wombat, and the echidna.

There are also several introduced species in Australia, such as rabbits and foxes. Some of these animals have become pests, while others have been successfully integrated into the ecosystem.

What Endangered Species Live in Australia?

numbat
Ken Griffiths / Shutterstock

Australia has several endangered species, including the Tasmanian devil, the numbat, and the mountain pygmy possum.

These animals are at risk of extinction due to habitat loss, introduced predators, and disease. The Australian government is working to protect these species through conservation efforts.

Here is a list of extinct or possibly extinct animals in Australia:

– Thylacine

– Tasmanian tiger

– Toloache wallaby

– Desert bandicoot

– New Holland mouse

– Broad-faced potoroo

– Lesser bilby

– Nullarbor dwarf bettong

– Rufous hare-wallaby

– Tooleroo

– Warru

– Night parrot

– Southern gastric-brooding frog

– Spotted tree frog

– Blue-grey taildropper

– Baw Baw frog

– Growling grass frog

Do Australian Animals Pose a Threat to Humans?

shark
Ramon Carretero / Shutterstock

Several Australian animals threaten humans, including snakes, spiders, and sharks. These animals can be dangerous if they are not respected.

It is important to be aware of the dangers posed by these animals and to take precautions when necessary.

Some of the most dangerous animals in Australia include:

– Eastern brown snake

– Western brown snake

– Red-bellied black snake

– Inland taipan

– Coastal taipan

– Common death adder

– Tiger snake

– Mulga snake

– Brown tree snake

– Yellow-faced whipsnake

– Desert death adder

– King brown snake

– Black tiger snake

Why Is Australia Known for Having Deadly Animals?

redbellied snake
Ken Griffiths / Shutterstock

Australia is known for having deadly animals because of the many species that are found on the continent.

These animals include snakes, spiders, and sharks. Australia is also home to some of the most venomous creatures in the world.

The harsh climate and limited resources also contribute to the dangers posed by Australian animals.

Many of these animals are forced to compete for food and shelter, which can lead to aggression.

A large number of predators also means that prey species are constantly under threat.

What are Australia’s Least Deadly Animals?

Not all Australian animals are deadly. Many species pose little threat to humans. These animals include koalas, kangaroos, and wallabies.

These animals are not venomous and are generally docile.

Some of the least dangerous animals in Australia include:

– Koala

– Wombat

– Wallaby

– Echidna

– Bandicoot

– Bilby

– Potoroo

– Bettong

– Hare

– Frog

What Are the Strangest Animals in Australia?

grey kangaroo
worldswildlifewonders / Shutterstock

Australia is home to some strange and unique animals. These animals include the echidna, the platypus, and the kangaroo.

These animals are all unique to Australia and are not found anywhere else in the world.

The echidna is a spiny, egg-laying mammal. The platypus is a venomous, duck-billed mammal. The kangaroo is a marsupial with powerful hind legs.

These animals are all strange and unique but also important to the Australian ecosystem.

How Do Australian Animals Adapt to the Environment?

Australian animals have adapted to the harsh environment in a number of ways. These adaptations include thick fur coats, sharp claws, and venomous fangs.

These adaptations help these animals to survive in the wild.

Some of the most common adaptations found in Australian animals include:

– Thick fur coats to protect against the cold

– Sharp claws and teeth for hunting and self-defense

– Poisonous fangs and venom for defense and prey capture

– Strong hind legs for jumping and running

– Good eyesight for spotting predators

Where Can I See These Animals in Australia?

There are several places where you can see these animals in Australia. Some of the most popular places to see Australian animals include:

Great Barrier Reef
marcobrivio.photo / Shutterstock

– The Great Barrier Reef

– The Outback

– Kakadu National Park

– Uluru

– The Great Victoria Desert

– The Nullarbor Plain

– Flinders Ranges National Park

– Blue Mountains National Park

– Purnululu National Park

– Tasmanian Wilderness World Heritage Area

What Are the Risks of Encountering These Animals in the Wild?

While there are a number of risks associated with encountering these animals in the wild, there are also some simple precautions that you can take to minimize these risks.

Some of the most important precautions to take when encountering Australian animals include:

– Avoiding areas where these animals are known to live

– Wearing protective clothing when visiting these areas

– Being aware of your surroundings at all times

– Heed warnings from local authorities about these animals

– Do not approach or attempt to capture these animals

Following these simple precautions can minimize the risks of encountering these animals in the wild.

Australian animals are an important part of the ecosystem and should be respected. These animals can be dangerous, but they are also a fascinating part of the natural world.

Australia Animals FAQs

What Are 5 Unique Animals to Australia?

wallaby
Ondrej_Novotny_92 / Shutterstock

The five unique animals in Australia are the koala, the kangaroo, the wallaby, the echidna, and the platypus.

These animals are found only in Australia and not anywhere else in the world.

What Is Australia’s Most Known Animal?

The most well-known Australian animal is the kangaroo. The kangaroo is a marsupial with powerful hind legs.

The kangaroo is found only in Australia and is an iconic symbol of the country.

What Is the Smartest Animal in Australia?

The smartest animal in Australia is the echidna. The echidna is a spiny, egg-laying mammal. The echidna is found only in Australia and is known for its intelligence and problem-solving abilities.

What Is the Deadliest Animal in Australia?

The deadliest animal in Australia is the inland taipan. The inland taipan is a venomous snake found in the desert regions of Australia.

The inland taipan has the most toxic venom of any snake in the world and can kill a human with one bite.

What Is the Weirdest Animal in Australia?

The weirdest animal in Australia is the platypus. The platypus is a venomous, duck-billed mammal.

The platypus is found only in Australia and is known for its strange appearance. The platypus is also one of the few venomous mammals in the world.

Conclusion

koala Sydney
ESB Professional / Shutterstock

There are several unique and interesting animals found in Australia. These animals have adapted to the harsh environment in several ways.

These adaptations help these animals to survive in the wild.

There are several places where you can see these animals in Australia. However, it is important to take precautions when encountering these animals in the wild.

These animals can be dangerous, but they are also a fascinating part of the natural world. If you have any questions about Australian animals, please feel free to ask in the comments section below.

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