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What animals are in the Blue Mountains?

The Blue Mountains, west of Sydney, Australia is a natural beauty with rugged tablelands, ancient valleys and diverse wildlife. A World Heritage listed site, the Blue Mountains are home to many animal species, so it’s a nature lover’s, wildlife enthusiast’s and conservationist’s paradise. From native mammals to colourful birds to reptiles and amphibians the Blue Mountains’ biodiversity is as amazing as the views.

Blue Mountains Wildlife

Native Mammals

Eastern Grey Kangaroos and Wild Kangaroos

The Eastern Grey Kangaroo is one of Australia’s most famous animals and a common sight in the Blue Mountains. These cutter kangaroos are often seen grazing in open fields on soft grass at dawn and dusk. Wild kangaroos are found in many parts of the Blue Mountains, in areas with plenty of vegetation and shady spots under gum trees.

Eastern Grey Kangaroos

Wombats

Known for their robust bodies and burrowing abilities, wombats dig intricate tunnels under tree trunks. These nocturnal creatures are often seen at dusk or dawn, leaving behind tracks and burrow entrances near trails.

Spotted-Tailed Quoll and Tiger Quoll

The Spotted-Tailed Quoll, also known as the Tiger Quoll, is one of Australia’s largest carnivorous marsupials and a vulnerable species in the Blue Mountains. They are an important part of the ecosystem. These quolls are shy and live in inaccessible valleys and ancient plant-filled valleys.

Yellow-Bellied Gliders

An arboreal species, the yellow-bellied glider can glide long distances between trees. These nocturnal mammals eat tree sap, insects and nectar and are often heard before seen, making a loud, high pitched call.

Brush-Tailed Rock Wallaby

The endangered brush-tailed rock wallaby is a beauty. This species lives in rocky outcrops, particularly in the Megalong Valley. Conservation in the Blue Mountains is focused on protecting these vulnerable animals.

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Flying Foxes and False Pipistrelles

The grey-headed flying fox is a native species and a pollinator and seed disperser. Often seen at dusk these bats are an important part of the Blue Mountains’ biodiversity. The false pipistrelle is an elusive bat species that lives in dense tree branches and under tree cover.

Birdlife

Glossy Black-Cockatoos and Gang-Gang Cockatoos

The Blue Mountains has a wide range of birdlife including the Glossy Black-Cockatoo and the Gang-Gang Cockatoo. The former has red tail feathers and feeds on eucalypt seeds, the latter has cheek patches and a fluffy crest.

Blue Mountains Cockatoos

Noisy Birds and Colourful Birds

The Blue Mountains is full of noisy birds like the Black-Chinned Honeyeater and the endangered Regent Honeyeater. They are a birdwatcher’s delight and add to the birdlife of the area. Other colourful birds like the crimson rosella and king parrots are often seen in the trees.

Blue Mountains Birdwatching

Superb Lyrebird

One of the most well known species in the Blue Mountains, the superb lyrebird, is famous for its ability to mimic other sounds. This ground dwelling bird is often seen in dense forest, scratching in the leaf litter for food.

Rock Warbler

The rock warbler is the only bird species endemic to New South Wales and is found in rocky areas and on rugged tablelands and rocky outcrops.

Reptiles and Amphibians

Blue Mountains Water Skink

Blue Mountains Water Skink, an endemic species, is found in the wetland areas of the Blue Mountains. As a vulnerable species it is a key focus of conservation efforts under biodiversity legislation.

Legless Lizards and Medium-Sized Lizards

The Blue Mountains has several unique lizard species, legless lizards and other medium sized lizards that are often mistaken for snakes. These reptiles are found near rock formations and valley bush.

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Frogs and Amphibians

The area has a large frog population during the wet season. Frogs are an important part of the ecosystem, as both predators and prey. Among them the endangered Blue Mountains tree frog is a key species.

Fauna Highlights

Glow Worms

The Glow Worm Tunnel in the Blue Labyrinth is a must see for visitors. These bioluminescent insects light up the tunnel walls and it’s like nothing you’ve ever seen before.

Glow Worm Tunnel

Endemic and Relict Species

The Blue Mountains has several relict species, remnants of ancient ecosystems, a window into the past.

Conservation and Research

Conservation in the Blue Mountains is about protecting vulnerable species, managing invasive species and maintaining the biological values of the area. Organisations like Science for Wildlife are working to save the native wildlife and native plants of the region.

Exploring Wildlife in the Blue Mountains

Wildlife Hotspots

  • Jenolan Caves: Native animals galore
  • Wentworth Falls: Rugged tablelands and views
  • Megalong Valley: Sanctuary for endangered brush-tailed rock wallabies and other native mammals
  • Mount Victoria: Panoramic views of Blue Mountains National Park
  • Katoomba Falls: Forest Wildlife spot

For guided Blue Mountains tours Wildlife Tours has got you covered to explore the region’s flora and fauna in depth.

Conclusion

The Blue Mountains natural beauty and diversity of wildlife and ecological communities makes it a must see for wildlife lovers. From Eastern Grey Kangaroos and Glossy Black-Cockatoos to Blue Mountains Water Skinks and glow worms, you can experience Australia’s unique wildlife in its natural habitat.

FAQs

What’s the most iconic animal in the Blue Mountains?

Eastern Grey Kangaroo is one of the most iconic animals in the Blue Mountains, often seen in open areas.

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Are there endangered species in the Blue Mountains?

Yes, the Blue Mountains National Park has several endangered species including the Brush-Tailed Rock Wallaby and Blue Mountains Water Skink.

What’s the best time to see wildlife in the Blue Mountains?

Dawn and dusk are the best times to spot wildlife, as most animals are most active during these hours.

Where can I see glow worms in the Blue Mountains?

Glow Worm Tunnel near Lithgow is the place to see the glow worms.

Are there guided tours in the Blue Mountains?

Yes, Wildlife Tours have guided Blue Mountains Tour for wildlife and nature.