The Australian Reptile Park’s much-loved dingoes, Chili and Bandit, have officially turned two, and the milestone was celebrated in true Aussie style.
Named after the iconic parents from the hit Australian children’s show Bluey, Chili and Bandit have become two of the Park’s most popular residents. The pair arrived as tiny puppies and have been lovingly hand-raised by keepers, growing into confident, playful ambassadors for their species.
To mark their second birthday, keepers prepared a special “meat cake” made from all their favourite foods, including beef, chicken and kangaroo meat. Chili didn’t hesitate to dig in first, while Bandit followed with his usual enthusiasm, making quick work of the rest.
Mammals Keeper Savannah Lalor says turning two has only amplified their personalities.
“Now that they have turned two, they have so much character,” Savannah said.
“Bandit is definitely in his terrible twos. He’s making mischief, running amok and having a great time. Chili is as sweet as ever; she loves her cuddles.”
Despite his cheeky streak, Bandit is also incredibly well trained. He can sit on command and even catch food mid-air in his mouth, a skill that regularly impresses visitors during presentations. Both dingoes participate in regular training sessions, helping keepers provide enrichment while showcasing their intelligence.
While Chili and Bandit may win hearts with their playful antics, they also play an important role in raising awareness about the species. Dingoes are a vital part of Australia’s ecosystem, helping maintain balance by controlling populations of other animals and supporting biodiversity.
However, dingoes are often persecuted in the wild due to their perceived impact on agriculture. Research shows that removing dingoes from the landscape can lead to increases in feral fox and cat populations, which in turn accelerates the decline of native mammals.
Through up-close encounters and keeper talks, the Australian Reptile Park hopes Chili and Bandit inspire a greater appreciation for dingoes and encourage informed conversations about protecting Australia’s native wildlife for future generations.
Visitors can join in the celebrations and wish Chili and Bandit a happy birthday during their next visit to the Australian Reptile Park.