Australasia

Kangaroos are one of the few medium-large animals that hop to get around. Their long tail acts as a counterbalance when they hop and works as a supportive fifth limb when they’re standing.

Classified as macropods, meaning ‘big feet’, kangaroos have large feet relative to their body size. The stretchy tendons in their hind legs strain and contract, acting like giant springs that generate most of the energy needed for each hop. You can catch our kangaroos in action at the walk-through area or watch them from the viewing gallery.

The tree kangaroos come across as somewhat clumsy in comparison with their land-dwelling cousins. These arboreal animals have powerful arms built for climbing and relatively broaderfeet. Padded soles tipped with sharp, curved claws allow for a better grip on tree limbs.

Spot our tree kangaroo family — proud parents Makaia, Nupela and their little joey. Makaia and Nupela are paired under a Global Species Management Plan (GSMP). The pairing of suitable individuals from participating zoos minimises inbreeding of related animals and enhance the genetic viability of the species under human care.

Picture an ostrich, or perhaps a turkey, mixed with a velociraptor. Considered the world’s most dangerous bird, the cassowary has a 10cm-long claw on each foot that can rip its opponents apart.

A jet-black coat of feathers contrasts with the brilliant hues of its neck and face. Atop its head sits a dramatic casque. An encounter with this mysterious bird is alike to chancing upon a dinosaur on a casual walk through a prehistoric forest — you’d have to see it to believe it!