Grey-Headed Flying-Fox
Scientific name : Pteropus poliocephalus
Other names: Grey-headed fruit bat
Status : Vulnerable
Sugar Glider
Scientific name : Petaurus breviceps
Other names: Indigenous names from Australia and PNG, including Lumbalk and Yeyang
Status : Least Concern
Tasmanian Pademelon
Scientific name : Thylogale billardierii
Other names: Rufous-bellied pademelon, Red-bellied Pademelon
Status : Least Concern
Squirrel Glider
Scientific name : Petaurus norfolcensis
Status : Vulnerable (NSW), Threatened (VIC), Endangered (SA), Common (QLD)
Brush-tailed Bettong
Scientific name : Bettongia penicillata ogilbyi
Other names: Woylie (from indigenous name Walyu, Nyungar language), Brush-tailed Rat Kangaroo
Status : Critically Endangered (<15,000 individuals)
Fat-tailed Dunnart
Scientific name : Sminthopsis crassicaudata
Other names: Narrow-footed marsupial mouse (applied to all dunnart species)
Status : Least concern, Near Threatened in Victoria
Long-nosed Potoroo
Scientific name : Potorous tridactylus
Other names: Byjuke
Status : Vulnerable. Common in Tasmania but far rarer on the mainland.
Rufous Bettong
Scientific name : Aepyprymnus rufescens
Other names: Rufous Rat-kangaroo
Status : Locally common (northern population). Population along Murray River now regionally extinct.
Common Brushtail Possum
Scientific name : Trichosurus vulpecula
Other names: Brushtail possum, Brush-tailed possum
Status : Least concern, although may be decreasing in some areas
FAQs
Many of our wildlife incursions and educational shows include one fascinating native mammal species alongside our reptiles and other animal ambassadors. Depending on the program, guests may meet incredible Australian mammals such as Sugar Gliders or Woylies. While mammals are only one part of the experience, they’re often a favourite for participants seeing these unique animals up close for the very first time.
Absolutely. Our wildlife party experiences can include one native mammal species as part of the animal lineup, alongside reptiles and other amazing creatures. While we don’t offer a dedicated mammal party package, including a mammal adds an extra layer of curiosity, storytelling, and unforgettable wildlife moments to the celebration.
Yes. The mammals featured in our programs are cared for by experienced Wildlife Ambassadors and introduced in calm, educational presentations designed around their wellbeing. Every interaction is professionally guided and focused on observing natural behaviours, helping children build confidence, empathy, and a deeper appreciation for Australia’s unique wildlife.
Reptile Encounters would like to acknowledge the Traditional Custodians of the land, the people of the Kulin Nation, who have never ceded sovereignty. This always was and always will be Aboriginal land.