JoelMy wife and I were desperate to see a tree kangaroo. Somehow, it managed to elude us in all of the places that were recommended to us.
At one point, we thought we seen one in a tree branch only metres from our heads. Photo after photo, high fives and uncontainable excitement… were all shattered! Turns out it was just some fat possum having a snooze haha.
So, is there actually a secret or trick to seeing one? Not really, you just need to be lucky and at the right place.
But First, A Little on the Tree Kangaroo
I thought I would share some information on the tree kangaroo – until reading up on it, and speaking to some locals, I never realised how amazing they are!
Almost all species are located in Papua New Guinea! We are fortunate here in Australia to have TWO species:
- Bennett’s Tree Kangaroo (North of the Daintree River).
- Lumholtz’s Tree Kangaroo (smallest species).
According to our “trusty” source of all wealth and knowledge – Wikipedia states:
“Compared to terrestrial kangaroos, tree-kangaroos have longer and broader hind feet with longer, curved nails. They also have a sponge-like grip on their paws and soles of their feet. Tree-kangaroos have a much larger and pendulous tail than terrestrial kangaroos, giving them enhanced balance while moving about the trees. Locomotion on the ground is by hopping, as with true kangaroos.”
Is There a Good Time to Spot One?
According to treekangaroo.net:
“A good time is late afternoon to early evening, because the females then leave their fixed day spots and start moving around. One can try spotlighting, too – the tree-kangaroo’s eyeshine is not as bright as the possum’s, but still reasonably stands out from the background in a dull ruby red.”
Tips:
- Don’t wear bright colours.
- Stay quiet and move slowly.
- Overcast days and light rain can be prime time.
- Get to higher terrain if you can – horizontal viewing is better.
- Look for the tails.
Key Spots to See a Tree Kangaroo!
Here is a list of places you may be able to see the beautiful tree kangaroo. There’s no guarantee – but be patient and keep your eyes peeled.
- Nerada Tea House – Malanda (Lumholtz’s Tree Kangaroo)
We put this as number one as this is where we finally spotted the tree kangaroo – and lucky enough to see THREE of them right next to the Tea Room. We’ve been told there are several more that frequent this area almost daily. Sip on a Royal Devonshire or Chai Tea with your camera in hand.
- Curtain Fig Tree – Yungaburra (Lumholtz’s Tree Kangaroo)
If you’re super stealthy and patient, you might be lucky enough to spot the tree kangaroo here.
- Malanda Falls Visitor Centre and Conservation Park – Malanda (Lumholtz’s Tree Kangaroo)
Prepare yourself for a sore neck as you walk the rainforest paths. As you’re looking up in the branches and the canopy, watch your step or you’ll trip over like me haha. Not only will you have the chance to see a tree kangaroo here, you’ll spot heaps of turtles and if you’re extra lucky – even a platypus.
We tried three times in this area with no success. Don’t let that deter you though – people have seen the kangaroos just metres away on the path. It was here that we thought we have spotted one – turns out it was just a possum…
Be sure you pop in to the Visitor Centre for heaps on information on the tree kangaroo and some interesting history!
You can also try these spots too! (Lumholtz’s Tree Kangaroo)
- Peterson Creek Wildlife & Botanical Walking Track – Yungaburra
This place is much more famous for platypus viewing, but did you know you can spot the rare Lumholtz Tree-Kangaroo as well? Most people spend time looking down into the water – but take a moment to look up as well.
The track is 2.3 klms starting from the Platypus Viewing Platform, Gillies Highway Yungaburra.
- Wongabel State Forest
This State Forest protects a remnant of endangered mabi forest, less than four per cent of which now remains. The name ‘mabi’ is derived from a local Aboriginal word for the near threatened (rare) Lumholtz’s tree-kangaroo, the largest mammal found in this rainforest (QLD Parks Website).
Enjoy the 750m walk through the forest or take the longer, 2.5km heritage route. Signs tell of the history of the area, as well as forestry practices and local ecology. Look for Lumholtz’s tree-kangaroos and possums while spotlighting at night.
- Mt Quincan Crater Retreat – Yungaburra
PRIVATE PROPERTY – Situated in the heart of the Atherton Tablelands, the award winning Mt. Quincan Crater Retreat offers luxurious accommodation in architecturally designed pole cabins, nestled amongst some of Tropical North Queensland’s most breathtaking scenery. See more about Mt Quincan.
- Lumholtz Lodge, Atherton
PRIVATE PROPERTY – Wildlife enthusiasts from all around the world have been to visit the Lumholtz Lodge. Margit, the host, offers a wonderful bed and breakfast situated on 160 acres of beautiful property. There’s a lot of wildlife here!
Known Sightings
Malanda
- Malanda Falls Conservation Park
- Winfield Park
- Bromfield Swamp
Tarzali
Yungaburra & Crater Lakes
- Lake Eacham
- Lake Barrine
- Peterson Creek
- Curtain Fig Tree
Millaa Millaa
- Millaa Millaa Falls
- Millaa Millaa town walks
Atherton
- Mount Hypipamee
- Carrington Road
- Wongabel Forest
- Lions Park
Ravenshoe
- Tully Falls Road area
Kuranda
Julatten
The Mysterious Bennett's Tree Kangaroo
Bennett’s tree kangaroos are found in lowland rainforest over a small range between Cooktown and the Daintree River. Jungle Surfing was (closed) the only tourist attraction where they were regularly seen.
In fact, Australian Geographic Magazine noted: “Few people have ever seen a Bennett’s tree kangaroo; they are cryptic and elusive, skilled at blending in with the dense rainforest canopy. There are none in captivity and only rarely have they been photographed”.
Try your luck at this location:
Mangkalba (Cedar Bay), Ngalba Bulal National Park
The 17km (one way) walking track is a rough, steep and difficult track and should only be attempted by experienced walkers. It begins at the Home Rule Rainforest Accommodation (private property).
Bush camping is available in coastal vegetation adjacent to the beach. No facilities are provided so campers must be self-sufficient.
It’s very gratifying finally spot them in the wild.