Exploring the Heart of Conservation in Western Australia
- Margaux
- Dec 11, 2024
- 11 min read
Updated: Dec 31, 2024
When it comes to travel, few activities bring as much joy and fascination as visiting zoos and conservation parks. These destinations offer unique opportunities to connect with wildlife, learn about conservation efforts, and experience the beauty and diversity of the natural world. For us, these visits are always a highlight of any trip. Over the next few weeks, we’re thrilled to be exploring some incredible wildlife attractions in Western Australia. Our itinerary includes the Perth Zoo, the AQWA, the Armadale Reptile Centre, the West Australian Reptile Park, the Aquarium of Western Australia, Naragebup, and Ranger Red’s Zoo & Conservation Park.
In this post, we’ll take you on a journey through these remarkable destinations, highlighting the unique features, must-see exhibits, and conservation initiatives that make each of them special. Let’s start with the iconic Perth Zoo.
Perth Zoo: A World of Wonders in the Heart of the City
Nestled just minutes from Perth’s bustling city centre, Perth Zoo is a treasure trove of wildlife experiences. Established in 1898, it is one of Australia’s oldest and most beloved zoos. The zoo spans 41 acres and is home to over 1,200 animals, including many native Australian species.
Price:
$38.5 AUD for an adult
Species Diversity
over 1,200 animals
160 species
Breeding Programs
Western Swamp Tortoise – The zoo has been instrumental in saving this critically endangered species.
Numbat – The zoo breeds these unique marsupials for reintroduction into predator-proof habitats.
Dibbler – Perth Zoo helps boost wild populations of this tiny, endangered marsupial.
Chuditch (Western Quoll) – Another species bred for release into the wild.
Bilby – A major focus on conserving this desert-dwelling marsupial.
Frog Species – Programs include breeding critically endangered frogs like the White-bellied Frog.
Sumatran Orangutans – Perth Zoo is globally recognized for its orangutan breeding efforts, with multiple individuals released back into the wild in Borneo.
Rothschild’s Giraffes – Part of a program to maintain genetic diversity in zoo populations.
Sun Bears – Contributing to conservation efforts for this vulnerable species.
Goodfellow’s Tree Kangaroo – Supporting international conservation programs for this rare marsupial.
Research
Conservation Science
Wildlife Monitoring
Habitat Restoration
Veterinary and Animal Health Research
Disease Management
Nutrition Studies
Reproductive Health
Behavioral Studies
Enrichment Studies
Social Dynamics
Climate Change and Sustainability
Adaptation Studies
Sustainability Practices
Collaborative Research
Orangutan Research
Native Plant Studies
Key Partnerships and Collaborations
Zoos and Aquariums Association (ZAA)
Taronga Zoo (Sydney)
Melbourne Zoo
Adelaide Zoo
Australia Zoo
World Association of Zoos and Aquariums (WAZA)
Singapore Zoo
San Diego Zoo (USA)
Bornean and Sumatran Wildlife Centers
Orangutan Conservation
Regional Australian Zoos
Healesville Sanctuary (Victoria)
Currumbin Wildlife Sanctuary (Queensland)
Specialist Wildlife Facilities
Monarto Safari Park
Species Survival Plans (SSPs)
This network fosters collaboration with zoos in:
Europe
North America
Asia
When we first entered Perth Zoo, we immediately noticed it seemed a bit smaller compared to some of the other zoos we've visited across Australia. With only 250 parking spaces available, it’s clear that this zoo is more compact than, for example, the sprawling Melbourne Zoo, which boasts over 1,000 parking spots. The limited parking did make us wonder about peak visiting times and how crowded it might get during holidays. As we stepped inside, we also observed that parts of the zoo were under construction. While we completely understand that maintenance and upgrades are necessary, it’s worth noting that other zoos sometimes offer discounts or perks during extensive construction periods to balance out the reduced experience.
However, one of the standout features we discovered was the availability of free guided walks. These are led by friendly and enthusiastic park officers, many of whom are older volunteers. This adds a lovely community-oriented feel to the zoo, and it’s heartwarming to see people dedicating their time to sharing knowledge and passion for wildlife. On the flip(per) side, the wildlife talks were primarily conducted by younger experts, creating a nice balance between wisdom and modern expertise. These talks were both engaging and educational, but we did notice that each topic was only scheduled once a day. If you miss it, you miss out, which could be frustrating for visitors with packed itineraries.
We were particularly impressed by the cleanliness and upkeep of the animal enclosures, especially in the reptile section. The habitats appeared well-maintained and thoughtfully designed to mimic natural environments. However, one unexpected and rather surprising aspect of our visit was the presence of rats. They were particularly noticeable in the primate enclosures and the nocturnal house. While this might be an inevitable challenge for any zoo, it’s not something we’ve encountered so prominently elsewhere. It’s worth mentioning because it stood out as a unique aspect of this visit
.
For families, Perth Zoo has gone the extra mile with interactive features like the Gruffalo spotting game, designed to keep children entertained while learning about wildlife. The zoo also does an excellent job of tailoring its information to different audiences. The signage and activities for kids present simple, engaging details, while more in-depth explanations delve into the zoo’s conservation projects and the history behind its exhibits.
The historical aspect of the zoo was particularly compelling. This was highlighted in exhibits like those for the jackal and sun bear. Besides the modern enclosures, which are designed to prioritize animal welfare, there are displays showcasing the outdated facilities of the past. These include animal statues and photos depicting how the animals were housed in the zoo's early days. While these reminders are sobering, they also emphasize how much progress has been made. It’s a poignant acknowledgement of past shortcomings and a celebration of how far we’ve come in understanding and respecting wildlife. It’s a powerful reminder of how Australians strive to face their past honestly, learning from it and continuously improving.
Overall, Perth Zoo offers a unique experience. While it may lack the size and grandeur of some of Australia’s larger zoos, it makes up for it with thoughtful touches, a commitment to education, and a sincere effort to blend history with conservation. It’s a worthwhile stop for anyone visiting Perth, especially for families and animal enthusiasts.
AQWA: A Window into Western Australia’s Marine Wonders
Nestled along the stunning coastline of Hillarys, just 25 minutes from Perth’s city centre, AQWA (The Aquarium of Western Australia) offers a mesmerizing underwater journey. Established in 1988, it is one of Australia’s largest aquariums. The facility showcases over 40 exhibits and houses thousands of marine creatures, including those from the iconic Ningaloo Reef and the Great Southern Ocean. Visitors can experience the country’s largest single aquarium tank and its incredible underwater tunnel, providing a breathtaking glimpse into Western Australia's diverse marine life.
Price:
$34 AUD for an adult
Species Diversity
over 3500+ animals
400 species
Breeding Programs
Seahorse Breeding Program
Focused on breeding and raising delicate seahorse species to support marine biodiversity.
Jellyfish Cultivation
Breeding and caring for various jellyfish species to enhance research and public education.
Turtle Rehabilitation
Providing care for injured marine turtles to release them back into the wild.
Marine Conservation Education
Raising awareness about marine life conservation through exhibits and educational programs.
Collaboration with Global Conservation Efforts
Supporting global initiatives aimed at protecting vulnerable marine species and ecosystems.
Research
Marine Species Breeding Studies
Investigating optimal conditions for breeding and raising delicate species like seahorses and jellyfish.
Coral Health and Restoration
Studying coral ecosystems to better understand resilience to environmental stressors, such as rising ocean temperatures.
Marine Animal Rehabilitation Research
Collecting data on the recovery and release of injured turtles and other marine animals to improve rehabilitation methods.
Ecosystem Monitoring
Collaborating with scientists and conservation organizations to monitor changes in Western Australia’s marine biodiversity.
Educational Outreach Impact
Conducting studies on the effectiveness of their educational programs in promoting conservation awareness.
Key Partnerships and Collaborations
Department of Biodiversity, Conservation and Attractions (DBCA)
Working together on marine conservation projects and biodiversity studies in Western Australia.
Murdoch University and Other Academic Institutions
Partnering for research initiatives, including marine species studies and student training programs.
Australian Marine Conservation Society (AMCS)
Supporting advocacy and conservation campaigns for marine ecosystems and species.
Local Wildlife Rescue and Rehabilitation Groups
Collaborating to rehabilitate and release injured marine animals, such as sea turtles.
Tourism and Community Organizations
Engaging in partnerships that promote sustainable tourism and community education about Western Australia’s marine environments.
Global Aquarium Networks
Sharing knowledge and resources with international aquariums to support conservation and breeding programs.
Driving up to AQWA, we weren’t entirely sure what to expect. Nestled in the vibrant neighbourhood of Hillarys, the aquarium looked much larger from the outside, but having glanced at the map beforehand, we knew it would be more compact compared to some of the massive aquariums we’ve visited. This actually fits the laid-back vibe of Perth quite well. Everything here feels just a little slower, with buildings not reaching the heights of cities like Sydney and an overall sense of calm that permeates the environment. Even the roads feel wider and easier to navigate, a refreshing contrast to the narrow, twisty lanes we’ve encountered in Queensland and New South Wales. Even the summer heat, though still very warm by European standards, feels a bit more manageable here.
When we entered the aquarium, we were pleasantly surprised. It had a cosy, welcoming feel, with a clear commitment to cleanliness and care. The fish tanks were immaculate, a bit of a relief since we've often encountered less-than-ideal conditions in smaller aquaria, where the effort seems to wane as the space shrinks. Not here—every tank was spotless and meticulously maintained, which really enhanced the experience.
Despite its more compact size, the variety of marine life on display was impressive. The building was packed with tanks, each home to a diverse range of creatures, but none of the enclosures felt overcrowded. It was a joy to see so many species we hadn’t encountered before, such as the ethereal Leafy Seadragon, which was even more mesmerizing in real life than in pictures. There was also the Pineapple Fish, which, I have to admit, didn’t quite win me over with its odd appearance—it had a rather off-putting look, but hey, it’s unique!
Of course, one of the main highlights was the underwater tunnel. Walking through it felt almost like stepping into a different world, with enormous stingrays, sharks, and schools of fish gliding all around you. We opted out of the glass-bottom boat experience, mainly because we had read that the views from the standard tunnel were just as breathtaking, and let’s be honest, the extra cost wasn’t something we were willing to add to our travel expenses while we’re still job hunting.
While we were in the tunnel, it happened to be feeding time, which was both exciting and fascinating to witness. It was at that moment that Yorick turned to me and asked, “Can I do that as a job?” Now, while he’s no stranger to diving, we learned he’d need more qualifications than he currently holds to be considered for a role like that. But his curiosity didn’t end there—he was keen to inquire about other opportunities within the aquarium, which was really fun to watch.
As avid visitors of aquariums and zoos, we often don’t expect to learn a lot of new information from the exhibits. Having watched countless animal documentaries and conservation shows, it sometimes feels like we’ve seen it all. But at AQWA, we were actually surprised by the amount of new knowledge we gained. A prime example was the coral-growing exhibit, which provided us with new insights into the fascinating world of coral reefs—something Yorick is particularly passionate about. The exhibit offered a deeper understanding of how these incredible organisms live and thrive, which added a fresh perspective to our visit.
Another standout feature of AQWA was the way the space was designed. It wasn’t just a walk-through of tanks and exhibits—it was an experience. From replica shipwrecks in the corridors to tranquil ponds with tiny bridges that you could cross, the aquarium was thoughtfully designed to keep visitors engaged and immersed in the marine world. One of my personal highlights, although we sadly missed the presentation, was the mermaid and pirate shows! While it's probably really hard to get into shows like that, I would love to be able to try swimming with such a tail. How cool would it be to say you're a professional mermaid!
All in all, AQWA offers a fantastic day out for anyone visiting Perth. It’s not just about seeing marine life—it’s about experiencing it in a place that celebrates both conservation and the wonders of the ocean in an engaging, relaxed atmosphere. Whether you're an avid marine enthusiast or just looking for a fun, educational experience, AQWA is a must-visit!
Caversham Wildlife Park: A Close Encounter with Australia’s Iconic Wildlife
Tucked away in the picturesque Whiteman Park, just a 30-minute drive from Perth’s city centre, Caversham Wildlife Park offers an extraordinary opportunity to get up close and personal with Australia’s unique fauna. Renowned for its interactive experiences and family-friendly atmosphere, this park is a must-visit for anyone looking to connect with wildlife in an intimate and educational setting.
Price:
$33 AUD for an adult
Species Diversity
Over 200 species
Breeding Programs
Australian Little Penguin
Southern Cassowary
Black-winged Stilt
Rose-crowned Fruit Dove
White-browed Woodswallow
Sacred Kingfisher
Quokka
Brush-tailed Bettong (Woylie)
Southern Hairy-nosed Wombat
Yellow-footed Rock Wallaby
Greater Bilby
Tasmanian Devil (Insurance Population)
Research
Species Knowledge Index (SKI) Development
Collaborated with global institutions to create the SKI, which classifies available demographic information for over 32,000 known species of mammals, birds, reptiles, and amphibians.
Zoological Information Management System (ZIMS) Data Contribution
Since 2014, contributed data on 1,096 birds, reptiles, amphibians, and mammals across 190 species to ZIMS, aiding in global wildlife data collection.
Life History Data Analysis
Participated in studies analyzing fertility and survival rates to fill critical information gaps for more than 98% of known species, enhancing conservation efforts.
Biodiversity Sustainability Research
Engaged in research delivering missing information critical to sustaining biodiversity, supporting informed decisions by conservationists.
Key Partnerships and Collaborations
Species360 and Zoological Information Management System (ZIMS): Since 2014, Caversham Wildlife Park has contributed data on 1,096 birds, reptiles, amphibians, and mammals across 190 species to ZIMS, aiding global wildlife data collection and research.
Bush Stone-curlew Reintroduction Program: Collaborated with Perth Zoo to reintroduce captive-bred Bush Stone-curlews into the Woodland Reserve at Whiteman Park, supporting species recovery efforts.
Native Animal Rescue (NAR) Broome: Supports wildlife care and rehabilitation efforts in collaboration with NAR Broome, contributing to the rescue and rehabilitation of native Australian animals.
Caversham Wildlife Park isn’t just a destination for fun; it’s a hub for education and conservation, passionately dedicated to fostering a deeper understanding of Australia’s unique wildlife. Through engaging interactive talks and thoughtfully curated exhibits, the park raises awareness about the challenges faced by native animals and the vital importance of preserving their habitats. Visitors leave with a renewed appreciation for the fragile ecosystems that support these incredible creatures.
Designed with families and accessibility in mind, Caversham Wildlife Park offers an array of amenities to ensure a comfortable and enjoyable visit for everyone. Picnic areas and a welcoming café provide spaces to relax and recharge, while stroller- and wheelchair-friendly paths make exploration hassle-free. Located within the expansive Whiteman Park, the wildlife park is perfectly positioned for a full day of adventure. Guests can extend their outing by exploring scenic walking trails, letting children play in well-maintained playgrounds, or enjoying a ride on the charming Heritage Tram.
From the moment you enter, the sounds of native birds and the sight of kangaroos basking in the sunshine transport you to the heart of the Australian bush. This immersive atmosphere, paired with the park’s hands-on approach, creates an unforgettable experience. What sets Caversham apart is its ability to forge meaningful connections between visitors and wildlife, ensuring those moments stay with you long after you’ve left.
Among the highlights is the chance to encounter koalas up close. Standing mere inches from these endearing creatures while learning about their unique biology and behaviours from the knowledgeable and passionate staff is both educational and heartwarming. The experience exemplifies the park’s commitment to bridging the gap between humans and nature.
The park is also home to a unique group of white kangaroos, a rare and striking variation of the species. These albino kangaroos are a stunning sight, their white fur and pale pink noses creating a beautiful contrast against the natural surroundings. Visitors can observe them up close, learning about their distinctive characteristics and the genetic factors that contribute to this rare condition. The white kangaroos add a touch of magic to the park, making them a favourite for many guests.
For families with children, Caversham Wildlife Park offers even more to enjoy. Feeding kangaroos is a delightful, tactile way to engage with native wildlife, while the live farm show introduces visitors to Australia’s rural traditions. These hands-on activities make learning about the natural world an exciting adventure, leaving children and adults alike with cherished memories and a newfound respect for Australia’s remarkable biodiversity.
Overall, Caversham Wildlife Park is more than just a wildlife sanctuary; it’s a place where people of all ages can foster a deeper appreciation for the natural world. Whether you’re a local looking for a weekend outing or a traveller seeking to experience Australia’s iconic fauna, this park promises a day filled with wonder and connection.
Stay tuned for more highlights from our Western Australian wildlife adventures!
I’m interested already!
Love Australian zoos! Enjoy!