Spring has arrived in the most heartwarming way at the Australian Reptile Park, bringing with it a flurry of tiny paws, wobbly hops, and plenty of cuteness. The Park is proudly celebrating a true baby boom, with six kangaroo joeys now bouncing about and delighting guests just in time for the warmer months.
Visitors will have the rare opportunity to witness every stage of kangaroo development. Some joeys are still shyly poking their tiny heads from the safety of their mothers’ pouches, while others are finding their footing, taking their very first hops across the grass. The sight has quickly become a highlight for guests and keepers alike, adding a special charm to springtime at the Park.
In a playful nod to pop culture, the joeys have all been named after the beloved characters from the hit television show Friends. Three Eastern Grey Kangaroos and three Kangaroo Island Kangaroos now answer to Chandler, Monica, Rachel, Ross, Joey, and Phoebe. Each one has already shown off a distinct personality. Some prefer to lounge in comfort inside their mums’ pouches, while others boldly attempt to hop about, occasionally making clumsy efforts to dive back in, which often results in a tumble or two.
Head Mammals Keeper, Seleena De Gelder, shared her joy at watching the new arrivals. “We love having joeys here at the park. When I walk through the park and see a little head popping out, it just makes my day,” she said. Her words reflect the delight felt by the entire team, who care for these young kangaroos every day and watch proudly as they grow and thrive.
Guests visiting the Park can safely hand-feed the kangaroos, a favourite activity that creates unforgettable moments and photo opportunities. However, keepers remind visitors that while the kangaroos living at the Park are accustomed to gentle human interaction, the same cannot be said for their mini-me's.
The Park is using the excitement of the joey boom to spread an important message about respecting kangaroos in the wild. As spring brings warmer weather and more opportunities for people to encounter kangaroos outdoors, the public is reminded never to approach, touch, or feed them. Wild kangaroos, particularly mothers with joeys, can be highly protective and may become aggressive if they feel threatened. Feeding them human food is also extremely harmful and can lead to serious health problems.
This spring, with six tiny new arrivals and countless moments of joy on display, the Australian Reptile Park has truly captured the magic of the season. From the smallest peek of a joey’s nose to their first adventurous hops, guests are guaranteed to fall in love with Australia’s most famous marsupials all over again.
Watch the video below for more information!