Native wildlife

Tropical North Queensland is home to a diverse range of native wildlife. All native wildlife is protected under the Nature Conservation Act 1992 to order to conserve Australia’s wealth of biodiversity.

Some threatened species are afforded more stringent protection under the Federal Environment Protection and Biodiversity Conservation Act 1999.

Living close to nature means that people and wildlife will interact from time to time.

This page provides information to help residents understand how to live safely alongside wildlife and what to do if animals are injured or in distress.

Living with native wildlife

Hinchinbrook’s natural environment supports a wide variety of wildlife species. While most interactions between people and wildlife are harmless, some situations may involve: 

  • Noise or smell from animals 

  • Wildlife entering residential areas 

  • Injured or orphaned animals 

Native animals are protected and should not be harmed, fed or interfered with unless advised by authorised wildlife carers or officers. 

Living safely with crocodiles

Saltwater crocodiles are a natural part of Queensland’s tropical waterways. They can be found in rivers, creeks, estuaries and coastal areas across north Queensland — including Hinchinbrook. 

The Queensland Government’s Crocwise campaign promotes awareness and safe behaviour so people can enjoy the outdoors while reducing the risk of crocodile encounters. 

Be Crocwise 

To stay safe around waterways: 

  • Assume crocodiles may be present in all tidal rivers and creeks 

  • Obey warning signs at boat ramps, waterways and beaches 

  • Keep well back from the water’s edge where possible 

  • Never feed crocodiles — this is illegal and dangerous 

  • Keep children and pets well away from water 

  • Dispose of food scraps and fish waste responsibly 

Crocodiles are most active in the warmer months but can be present all year round. 

Report crocodile sightings 

If you see a crocodile, report it to the Queensland Government: 13 QGOV (13 74 68) 
or online via the Queensland Government reporting tools. 

For more practical safety advice and information, visit:  Queensland Government – Crocwise 

Injured or orphaned wildlife

If you find injured, sick or orphaned wildlife, do not attempt to handle the animal unless it is safe and you are experienced. 

Please contact a registered wildlife carer or the appropriate authority as soon as possible. 

Wildlife assistance contacts 

North Queensland Wildlife Care Inc.All wildlife. Phone: 0414 717 374 

Important Wildlife Protection Notes  

  • Native animals are protected and must not be harmed or interfered with 

  • Feeding wildlife can alter natural behaviour and increase risk to people and animals 

  • Wildlife injuries should always be reported to trained carers 

 

Common native wildlife species

The following species are commonly found throughout the Hinchinbrook region.

Brushtail possums

The Brushtail Possum (Trichosurus vulpecula) is the most common possum species in Hinchinbrook. 

Brushtail possums are highly adaptable and may shelter in: 

  • Roof cavities 

  • Wall spaces 

  • Sheds 

  • Backyard trees 

In urban areas, limited tree hollows often lead possums to seek shelter in buildings. 

If you suspect a possum is entering your home: 

  • Inspect the roof for broken tiles or gaps 

  • Look for signs such as droppings, urine staining or fur 

  • Use paper balls to confirm entry points 

  • Seal entry points only after the possum has exited 

  • Check carefully for any young before sealing 

If relocation or rescue is required, contact North Queensland Wildlife Care Inc. 

Agile wallabies

The Agile Wallaby (Macropus agilis) is commonly seen around town fringes, wetlands and grazing areas. 

Due to their mobility and proximity to urban areas, Agile wallabies are vulnerable to: 

  • Vehicle strikes 

  • Dog attacks 

  • Illegal hunting 

If you find an injured wallaby or an orphaned joey, contact North Queensland Wildlife Care Inc., who can arrange local carer support.

Southern cassowaries

The Southern Cassowary (Casuarius casuarius johnsonii) is listed as Endangered under Federal legislation. 

Cassowaries are rare and elusive, despite their large size. You may hear their low‑frequency “boom” before seeing them. 

Important safety information: 

  • Do not feed cassowaries 

  • Keep a safe distance 

  • Cassowaries can defend themselves if threatened and may cause serious injury 

If you see: 

  • An injured cassowary 

  • A cassowary in distress 

  • Orphaned chicks 

Contact the Cassowary Recovery Team on 1300 130 372. 

Mahogany gliders

The Mahogany Glider (Petaurus gracilis) is listed as Endangered under both State and Federal legislation. 

They are nocturnal and extremely difficult to observe in the wild. Mahogany gliders live in lowland forest habitats between Townsville and Tully and rely on connected tree canopies to glide safely. 

Where habitat fragmentation occurs, Council and partners have installed: 

  • Glider poles 

  • Rope bridges 

These structures help wildlife safely cross roads and highways. 

Snake and reptile assistance

If you encounter a snake: 

  • Keep your distance 

  • Do not attempt to handle it 

  • Keep people and pets away 

Local snake and reptile removal 

 

Back to top