Take a trek within the lush greenery of the Otways and see some of the native flora and fauna!
 |
| Otway Ranges, Victoria |
Found along the Great Ocean Road is one of the state’s most picturesque rainforests, named the Great Otway National Park. The Otway Ranges is a small part of this national park, a lush section of thick trees, cascading waterfalls, and an abundant amount of walking tracks. The diverse environment makes the Otway Ranges one of the most densely populated regions for wildlife, with animals spotting a common occurrence for anyone strolling throughout the region.
Koalas
By far Australia’s most popular animals called the Otway Ranges their home, with over hundreds, found scattered about the treetops. They spend the majority of their time snoozing in the high branches of eucalyptus trees, occasionally munching on the nearby leaves. Visitors can simply look up during their walk and spot these round fluffs of grey in the nooks of trees. For even a closer look at these animals, you can head to Kennett River where the trees are shorter!
Whales
Between the months of June and October, the Otway Range’s coast side is home to the migrating humpback whales. The rugged coastline hosts as the perfect lookout point to see these creatures roaming the shallow waters of the Great Ocean Road.
Platypus
The platypus is one of Australia’s most mysterious creatures, only very rarely seen in the wild. However, if you were ever going to see one, the Otways is a great place to try, with the banks of rivers and creeks filled with these creatures. Keep your eyes peels and hunt around fallen trees in muddy waters, as these are platypus’ favourite place to hide.
Glow Worms
Don’t head back to your hotel after sunset, for one of the greatest creatures found in this lush region only wakes at dust. Nestled in the cool banks of Melba Gully is a rainforest area jam-packed with these incredible Glow Worms. Incredibly able to glow naturally from a chemical reaction in their bodies, these worms light up the forest to create natural fairy lights! Visitors can trek through the Glow Worm walking track and marvel at the worms lighting up the entire greenery.
Birdlife
One of the most common wildlife sightings in the Otway’s is the birds, with a bucket-load of species roaming the skies and treetops. You’re spoilt for choice here, with birds such as the Superb Fairy Wrens, Ground Thrushes, Yellow Robins, and Rufous Fantails can all be spotted about the rainforest. Simply follow the sounds of bird calls and see these colourful creatures in person!
Recommended Great Ocean Road Tours: 1 Day Great Ocean Road & 12 Apostles Tour
Price: $97
Company: Sightseeing Tours Australia
Related article: Guide to the Great Ocean Road
This post was originally posted on https://sightseeingtoursaustraliaonline.wordpress.com/2020/04/26/what-animals-you-can-see-at-the-otway-ranges/
