Images courtesy of Linda Iriwin @lindairwinphotography
Few experiences compare to seeing native wildlife in its natural habitat, and right now is one of the best times to do it on Kangaroo Island.
Recent sightings and photos captured at Flinders Chase National Park along the Rocky River at the Cascades have sparked excitement for visitors hoping to spot a famously shy Aussie native. With the dry conditions currently sweeping across the island, locals have been spotting platypuses around the park.
Because of this, the platypuses have concentrated into fewer, smaller habitats, meaning your odds of seeing one are better than usual.
“Due to the very dry conditions, as the island is experiencing a severe lack of rain, the habitat of the platypus is becoming very confined to certain areas, this opens up a better opportunity of sighting the platypus as they don’t have the multiple pools and running river systems to hunt and forage in as they do over winter and the wetter periods,” shared Linda Irwin, a photographer who was lucky enough to spot and photograph the rare animals.
Platypuses are naturally elusive creatures, and spotting them in the wild takes a mix of timing and stealth. They’re most active at dawn and dusk, and Linda suggests bringing along a pair of binoculars, staying low and quiet, and waiting for tell-tale signs like bubbles or ripples on the surface of the water.
If you’re keen to head on down and check out the park, the best people to chat with regarding directions and wildlife spotting are at the newly opened Flinders Chase Visitor Centre, where the friendly staff can provide maps and insider tips on the best vantage points along Rocky River.
Whether or not you get a sighting of these rare creatures, Flinders Chase National Park is a must-visit when you’re on Kangaroo Island. The park is home to the iconic Remarkable Rocks, Admirals Arch, a long-nosed fur seal colony, and some of the most stunning scenery the state has to offer.
So, if you’ve ever wanted to see a platypus in its natural habitat, now’s the time to lace up your walking shoes, pack your patience, and head for Kangaroo Island’s Flinders Chase National Park.
Follow Linda for more fantastic shots! @lindairwinphotography
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