The soft pitter-patter of wild paws will charm you as Lorne’s coastal bushland comes to life. Koalas, swamp wallabies, ring-tailed possums, eastern grey kangaroos and yellow-bellied gliders frolic gracefully as even one glimpse will have you bursting with appreciation.
Extensive forests remain as sanctuaries for animals and the town itself if not a haven for all. A bird watchers paradise native species are abundant, including illustrious kookaburras, rosellas, parrots and more. Observe mischievous Australian seals waddle, tumble and lumber off rocks as Southern right whales breach playfully right before your eyes.
Our Top 6 Places to Spot Wildlife in Lorne
1. Kangaroos at Lorne Golf Course
Play a round of golf at Lorne Golf Course and share the occasion with the resident population of Eastern Grey Kangaroos. Not much of a golfer? Stay the night at one of Lorne’s luxurious hotels and awake to joyous joeys bounding about St George River.
2. Glowworms at Sheoak Picnic Ground or Allenvale Mill
Visit Allenvale Mill site or Sheoak Picnic Ground to see hundreds of tiny glowworms gleaming and twinkling amongst a magical forest setting. Their mythical light creates a truly enchanting effect.
3. Sammy the Seal at Lorne Pier
Say hello to local resident Sammy the seal at Lorne Pier. The finest fisherman going around, Sammy may even show you how to catch a fish…or steal one!
4. Whales at the Beach or from a Lookout
Whales can often be seen from Lorne Beach, Point Grey or Teddy’s Lookout, frolicking freely and spurting water with their young.
5. Koalas at Teddy’s Lookout
Spot cute Koalas nestling sluggishly amongst the gums at Teddy’s Lookout. Sometimes spotted at Lorne’s very own Visitor Information Centre, it’s best to keep your eyes peeled for these stealthy creatures at all times, and don’t forget to look up!
6. Platypuses in St George River
You may discover more than just handsome facades on the St George River walk. Keep your eyes on the water as cheeky platypuses plummet and dive within the shallow streams below.
Watching Lorne’s Native Birds
For bird watchers, Lorne is a paradise. Native Australian species plentiful including Kookaburras, Rosellas, King parrots and more. Marvel at ducks and egrets along Erskine waterway as Wedge Tail eagles put on a show above St George River.
Sulfur Crested Cockatoos sing along the foreshore as rare swallows can be sighted at swallow cave.
Please help us keep Lorne’s wildlife safe and refrain from feeding the birds — no matter how friendly they seem, it will eventually make them sick.
