Australia’s wildlife is diverse, unique, and largely non-aggressive when left undisturbed. Most incidents involving animals occur when people approach, feed, corner, or accidentally startle them. Understanding behaviour patterns and maintaining distance are the most effective risk controls when hiking.
This guide outlines the wildlife hikers are most likely to encounter, where risk increases, and how to reduce the likelihood of negative interactions.
Snakes
Australia has over 170 species of snakes, with around 25 considered venomous. Tiger snakes, eastern brown snakes, and red-bellied black snakes are among the species hikers may encounter.
Snakes are not aggressive by default. Most bites occur when a snake is stepped on, handled, or provoked. They rely on camouflage and often remain still when approached. Risk increases in warm weather, near water, in long grass, and around rocky outcrops.
Risk controls:
- Watch where you place your feet and hands.
- Avoid stepping over logs without checking the other side.
- Wear long pants and sturdy footwear.
- Do not attempt to move or kill a snake.
If you encounter a snake, stop, remain calm, and slowly increase distance. If bitten, apply pressure immobilisation and call 000 immediately.
Spiders
Venomous spiders such as funnel-webs and redbacks exist in parts of Australia, though serious bites are uncommon during hiking. Risk increases when placing hands under rocks, inside hollow logs, or into sheltered spaces without visibility.
Risk controls:
- Avoid putting hands where you cannot see.
- Shake out boots and gear if left outside overnight.
- Wear enclosed footwear.
Seek medical attention if bitten and symptoms develop. Serious spider bites are rare but require assessment.
Crocodiles
Saltwater and freshwater crocodiles inhabit northern Australia. They are apex predators and should be treated as a high-consequence hazard.
Crocodiles are ambush predators. They may remain submerged and are difficult to detect. Risk increases near riverbanks, estuaries, boat ramps, and muddy water edges, especially at dawn and dusk.
Risk controls:
- Obey all crocodile warning signage.
- Do not swim in waters where crocodiles may be present.
- Keep well back from water edges.
- Do not clean fish or dispose of food scraps near water.
If you see a crocodile, increase distance immediately. Do not approach for photographs.
Dingoes
Dingoes are wild canids found across much of Australia. They are generally wary but can become bold around campsites where food conditioning has occurred.
Risk increases where people feed wildlife, leave food unsecured, or allow dingoes to approach closely.
Risk controls:
- Never feed dingoes.
- Store food securely.
- Supervise children closely.
- If approached, stand tall, maintain eye contact, and back away slowly.
Do not run. Do not turn your back. Maintain group cohesion.
Other wildlife considerations
Most Australian wildlife poses little threat if given space. Incidents typically occur when animals feel cornered or threatened.
Kangaroos: Maintain distance, particularly during breeding season. Avoid approaching large males.
Emus: Do not approach chicks. Adult emus may defend young.
Cassowaries: Found in tropical north Queensland. Maintain significant distance and do not block escape routes.
Wombats and koalas: Generally non-aggressive but may bite if handled. Do not approach or attempt to touch.
Tasmanian devils: Typically shy and avoid humans. Maintain distance and do not interfere.
The safest wildlife strategy is simple. Observe, do not interact, and allow animals clear escape paths.
General wildlife safety principles
- Do not feed wildlife. Feeding alters behaviour, increases aggression, and reduces natural foraging ability.
- Maintain distance. Use zoom, not proximity, for photographs.
- Be aware of surroundings. Scan ahead on track, particularly in warm conditions.
- Wear appropriate clothing. Long pants and enclosed footwear reduce risk from bites and stings.
- Carry a first aid kit. Include pressure immobilisation bandages in snake-prone areas.
- Secure food. Prevent attracting wildlife to campsites.
Wildlife encounters are part of hiking in Australia. With preparation, awareness, and restraint, most interactions remain safe and uneventful.
Great article. TICNA Tick-borne Illness Community Network Australia Inc would add it’s often the near invisible wildlife we do not take seriously enough to avoid. It’s the bugs of all sorts lurking quietly or with mosquitoes not so quietly that can carry all sorts of infections that can cause the most harm. Ticks, mosquitoes chiggers fleas et al can be avoided simply just by ALWAYS wearing repellent when you are outdoors. Remember mosquitoes are the No 1 most harmful animal and vector on the planet and ticks are no 2 VECTOR with the number of debilitating illnesses and death they cause. There have been at least 20 deaths from tick diseases in Australia alone. About 20% who get severe tick disease can die worldwide.
Of course repellent is not going to stop a crocodile or snake from attacking but wouldn’t it be nice if there was a wearable deterrent for these just like there is for tiny bugs.