Hopping Along with the Iconic Kangaroo
Western Australia's kangaroos are enjoyed as much by locals as they are by those travelling through the state.
There are two main species - western grey kangaroos (the most common) and the famous red kangaroo or "Blue Flyer".
The red kangaroo is the largest marsupial in the world. Often growing bigger than a man, this species can reach heights in excess of six feet and weigh more than 80 kilograms. They prefer a more arid climate to the western greys, so visit the state's desert outback regions for a guaranteed sighting.
Spot western grey kangaroos munching on their early morning breakfast grasses alongside bush tracks or on our plentiful golf course fairways. They tend to fancy hopping along the open greens.
You can also catch sight of these powerful marsupials crossing roads in rural areas, so keep watch for them during your travels into the Western Australian countryside.
Rottnest Island's Quaint Quokkas
Take a ferry ride to Rottnest Island, and be captivated by its 10,000 locals - local quokkas that is.
These furry, kangaroo-like marsupials are indigenous to "Rotto", though they have been detected in the southern pockets of Western Australia's mainland.
They effortlessly capture visitors' attention as they scurry through the scrubby coastal vegetation, and mischievously peep out from behind island bushes.
While quokkas are endearing, unsuitable foods may cause them to become ill, so Rottnest Island rangers issue infringements to people found feeding them.
Merry, Merry King of the Bush
Kookaburras are the largest members of the kingfisher family. They are characterised by a unique, cackling laugh, which they use to audibly stake the boundaries of their territory.
Listen out for the different calling varieties of this fascinating bird - from a few chuckles to a pronounced "kooooo-aaaaah". His laugh can be infectious - so go ahead and join in.