Fauna

The diverse environments of Kakadu support an astonishing array of animals some of which are considered rare, endangered or endemic (not found anywhere else in the world).

Kakadu is home to 68 mammals (almost one-fifth of Australia's mammals), more than 120 reptiles, 26 frogs, over 300 tidal and freshwater fish species and over 10,000 species of insects. It provides habitat for around 280 bird species (over one-third of Australia's birds). Its internationally important wetlands are a major staging point for migratory birds.

Many of the animals found in Kakadu respond to the extreme weather conditions of the six seasons by changing their behaviour and are seen only at particular times of the day or night or at particular times of the year.

For more information, please read the Fauna Park Note here

Crocodiles at Kakadu National Park.

Crocodiles are the world's largest living reptiles. They are also one of the most ancient, having existed unchanged for nearly two hundred million years. There are more than 20 types of crocodilians in the world. Two species occur in Australia, the freshwater and the estuarine or saltwater crocodile.

Freshwater crocodiles

Freshwater crocodiles (Madjarrki), (Crocodylus johnstoni) are only found in Australia, where they live in freshwater rivers, creeks and plunge pools such as Maguk and Gunlom. Freshwater crocodiles are usually shy animals but can become aggressive if disturbed, so do not approach them.

Estuarine (saltwater) crocodiles

Estuarine crocodiles (Ginga), (Crocodylus porosus) are also found in India, South East Asia and Papua New Guinea. Often called 'salties', they live in freshwater and estuarine areas, such as floodplains, billabongs, rivers and coastal waters. Estuarine crocodiles are aggressive.
They have attacked and killed people in Kakadu. For your safety, please obey all crocodile warning signs – do not enter the water and keep away from the water's edge.

For more information, please read the Crocodiles Park Note here