FX.co ★ Seven unique animals of Australia

Emu

This unusual bird is considered a symbol of Australia. The emu is featured on the green continent's coat of arms, supporting the shield with the emblems of six regions. The emu is the largest member of the ratite group on the continent. This species is endemic, inhabiting a significant part of Australia. Emus belong to a group of flightless birds. They have elongated bodies on long legs, small tails, and small heads on long necks. An emu can take a step of 275 cm and run at a speed of 50 km/h. These unique creatures lead a nomadic lifestyle, feeding on insects and plants. Commercial farming of these birds began in the 1980s.

Laughing kookaburra

Another unusual Australian bird is the laughing kookaburra. Currently, this bird inhabits the Australian state of Tasmania and New Zealand. The laughing kookaburra does not leave its territory and does not migrate. The bird is medium-sized, measuring 45–47 cm with a wingspan of 65 cm and a weight of 500 g. The laughing kookaburra feeds on small rodents and various reptiles. The bird got its name from its distinctive sounds, which resemble human laughter.

Numbat

The numbat is a member of the marsupial anteater family and is endemic to Australia. It is the emblem of the state of Western Australia and is under protection. The numbat lives in the southern part of the green continent. The population of these unusual animals continues to decline (currently, numbats are classified as EN, or endangered). Once widespread in the south of the continent, they are now on the brink of extinction. Numbats have fluffy tails, bright, coarse fur, and 6 to 12 transverse white stripes on their backs. These animals feed on termites and ants, using their worm-like sticky tongues up to 10 cm long.

Wombat

The wombat is a rare representative of Australian fauna, living only on the continent. These animals' natural habitat consists of underground burrows resembling labyrinths. Wombats are marsupial mammals that inhabit the southern and eastern parts of Australia. These endemics resemble small bears or large hamsters, with thick, compact bodies measuring 70–130 cm in length. They weigh between 20 and 45 kg. Wombats have tough skin on the back part of their bodies, which helps them block the entrances to their burrows or fend off enemies. These unusual creatures feed on young grass, moss, fungi, and berries. The Australian calendar includes a special date, Wombat Day, celebrated on October 22. Notably, the northern hairy-nosed wombat is critically endangered. This endemic species lives only in a national park.

Pig-nosed turtle

The unusual pig-nosed turtle is one of the few living fossil species. It belongs to the family of softshell turtles, although their bony shells are almost fully preserved. The pig-nosed turtle is widespread across the green continent. Unlike other turtles, it has only two claws on each limb (instead of three). This animal got its name due to its peculiar nose, which resembles a pig's snout.

Thorny devil

Another unique animal found only in Australia is the thorny devil lizard. From a distance, this unusual creature resembles a cactus, as its body is covered in spikes. The thorny devil has a large, spiked growth on the back of its head, which it uses to defend itself. This unique creature feeds exclusively on ants.

Koala

The koala is the only member of the koala family, inhabiting the coastal areas of eastern and southern Australia. These herbivores spend almost all their time in eucalyptus trees. For many animals, the leaves of this plant are poisonous. However, these exotic animals have the ability to feed on eucalyptus leaves without harm. In the early 20th century, koalas were hunted for their thick fur, but hunting them was banned in 1927. Koalas are quite susceptible to diseases, so a special clinic and two koala parks have been established in Australia. Currently, the koala has a VU (vulnerable) conservation status according to the IUCN, the International Union for Conservation of Nature and Natural Resources.