September 15th, 2010
Wildlife Watching in Sydney
Sydney is known for its iconic Opera House and Harbour Bridge. What many don’t realize is that Australia’s largest city is also home to numerous parks and wildlife refuges offering unique glimpses of the continent’s wild animals. Tourists will want to get out of their Sydney hotel and see some of the region’s wild life firsthand.
The Tarango Zoo was the first public zoo in New South Wales. Opened in 1884 at the Billy Goat Swamp in Moore Park. After several reinventions and relocations, the Taronga Zoo was officially opened in 1916. Today the Zoo features animal encounters, guided tours, and daily presentations by various animal keepers. There is also a daily Bird Show and a Seal Show. Animal Encounters, which require separate tickets, include koalas, reptiles, giraffes and owls. Visitors can also attend overnight events.
Other wildlife attractions in Sydney include the Koala Park Sanctuary in the Outer West, the Featherdale Wildlife Park in Western Sydney, and the Sydney Aquarium and Sydney Wildlife Park, both in Darling Harbour. Those willing to trek an hour north of the city will get to explore the Australian Reptile Park which features wallabies, dingos, and kangaroos as well as reptiles and other animals.

