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The
rainforests in the Wet Tropics contain 65% of Australia's
fern species, 21% of its cycad species, 37% of its
conifer species, and 30% of its orchid species. Lowland
rainforest typically contains woody vines, fan palms, epiphytic
ferns and strangler figs, all of which fight for the rare sunlight
that penetrates the towering canopy.
The
Daintree contains some of the most rare and endangered species in the
world. New species are constantly being found, including the recent
discovery of the masked white-tailed rat. There are also species that
are unique to the region, like the shy and retiring Bennett's tree
kangaroo, the Thornton Peak Medlomys, and the Daintree River Ringtail
Possum.
Many
of the inhabitants are nocturnal, so you won't see them during the day.
However, you'll easily find local guides who offer night spotlighting
tours of this private and sacred world. |
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FROGS
Frogs are frequently encountered in the rainforest areas. Like many
other creatures, frog habitats are being eroded by human intervention,
and many species have disappeared altogether. Of particular interest are
the Australian lace-lid, the common mistfrog, the waterfall frog and the
northern tinkerfrog. |
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BIRDS
Many
bird varieties seek sanctuary in the cool, food-rich rainforest, including
the wompoo pigeon, the noisy pitta and the cassowary, a large flightless
bird that can grow to 2 metres. Visiting birds include the white-tailed
kingfisher, which visits the Daintree region on its annual summer
pilgrimage from Papua New Guinea. |
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DUGONGS
The
waterways around the Daintree Coast are the home of the dugong, which is
most closely related to the elephant family. Also known as the 'sea cow',
the dugong is found right along the north-east Queensland coast, with
major populations located north of Cooktown, and on the coastal strip
between Hinchinbrook Island and the Whitsunday Islands. Whilst they prefer
inshore seagrass beds, dugongs can be sighted 10 kilometres up rivers and
over 60 kilometres out to sea. |
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SNAKES
There
are many varieties of snakes found in North Queensland, some of which
are highly venomous. Winter enhances your chances of seeing snakes as
they seek out open, sunny areas. However, they are usually trying to get
away from you, so simple awareness is the key to avoiding contact with
snakes. Look where you are walking, and avoid brushing up against trees.
Another precaution is to wear thick socks and long trousers. Make sure
you know how to treat snakebite before you visit the Daintree, as this
could save a life, perhaps even yours. |
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CASSOWARY
If
you find a cassowary in the rainforest, you are very lucky, as they are
a reclusive bird. However, they are quite protective of their young, and
can become aggressive if they think there is a danger to their nest.
Don't try to touch them or feed them, and don't run away from them -
either stand still, or back away slowly to the nearest tree. |
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CROCODILES
Of the two species of crocodile found in Australia, the one you are
likely to encounter in the Daintree is the estuarine crocodile, which,
like the freshwater crocodile, is a protected species in Australia.
The
Daintree River is a well-known habitat for crocodiles. In fact,
thousands of tourists each year take one of the many crocodile-watching
cruises along the Daintree River.
The
estuarine crocodile has a broader snout than its freshwater cousin, and
adults are usually longer, growing up to 4 metres in length. Crocodiles
are efficient predators, and although crocodile attacks on humans are
not common, they can seriously injure or kill people. The greatest of
care must be taken in areas where crocodiles are present.
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