Page 100 - Port Douglas Magazine 43

DAINTREE ADVENTURES.
4. PRICKLY KATYDID 7. BIOLUMINESCENT FUNGI
Another hidden gem of the Daintree is the Prickly Katydid, an insect so Adding to the nighttime spectacle, bioluminescent fungi cast an eerie green-
well-camouflaged it took scientists until 2005 to formally describe it. Often blue glow in the dark. These glowing mushrooms are a rare and surreal
called the Giant Spiny Tree Cricket or Spiny-Legged Rainforest Katydid, this sight, offering a magical experience for those exploring the rainforest after
fascinating insect with its psychedelic designs has an ability to vanish into sundown. While their bioluminescence isn’t fully understood, it’s thought to
its surroundings. attract insects that help spread their spores.
Despite their large size (adults can grow up to 10 centimetres long) they are
incredibly difficult to spot. These insects are most commonly seen during 8. SALTWATER CROCODILE
the summer’s stormy weather when they descend from the treetops to avoid The Saltwater Crocodile is the Daintree’s apex predator, a creature that
high winds and rain. commands respect and awe. Growing up to seven metres long, these ancient
reptiles have been around for 95 million years, dating back to the time of the
5. BENNETT’S TREE KANGAROO dinosaurs.
Most people associate kangaroos with open plains, but in the Daintree, you’ll Saltwater crocodiles can often be seen basking along the banks of the
find a unique tree-dwelling cousin: Bennett’s Tree Kangaroo. This rare and Daintree River or lurking just beneath the surface. Guided river cruises, like
shy marsupial spends most of its life high in the canopy, leaping and climbing Crocodile Express, offer the safest way to observe these massive predators in
with ease thanks to its muscular limbs, broad feet, and long tail for balance. their natural habitat.
Unlike their ground-dwelling relatives, tree kangaroos can move both
forward and backward along branches, a unique trait. Feeding on leaves, 9. DAINTREE RIVER RINGTAIL POSSUM
fruits and flowers, they play an important role in maintaining the rainforest’s As the name of this cute little Australian possum suggests, the Daintree River
ecosystem. ringtail possum is most often seen along the banks of the Daintree River, that
cuts a path through the Daintree Rainforest.
6. SUGAR GLIDER Most ringtail possums are small and weigh less than one kilogram. They are
After dark in the Daintree, keep an eye out for the Sugar Glider, a small light brown in colour, possess a dark stripe of the back of the head and have
marsupial known for gliding gracefully between trees using flap-like a distinctive curved tail which they use to carry small twigs and branches for
membranes called patagia, covering up to 150 feet in a single leap. These building nests.
nocturnal creatures feed on nectar, sap and fruit, playing a crucial role in Arm yourself with a pair of binoculars, so you have the best chance of
pollinating plants and maintaining the rainforest’s ecosystem. spotting a Daintree River ringtail possum.
For the best chance to spot one, consider staying overnight in the rainforest,
for example at Cape Tribulation Beach House or Cape Tribulation Camping.
Surrounded by lush rainforest and ocean breezes, these overnight stays offer
an immersive connection to nature. While sightings of Sugar Gliders can
never be guaranteed, spending the night surrounded by the rainforest gives
you the best chance to encounter these elusive creatures.

CROCODILE EXPRESS GREATER DAINTREE WILDLIFE CRUISES CAPE TRIBULATION CAMPING
Explore the world’s oldest rainforest with Greater Daintree Wildlife Cruises! Cape Tribulation Camping offers the ultimate beachfront experience in the
The river is known for its diverse wildlife, including saltwater crocodiles, heart of the Daintree Rainforest.
numerous bird species, butterflies and a variety of reptiles. Established This family-owned and operated park offers both powered and unpowered
in 1979, we are the only operator offering two distinct cruise locations: sites, modern facilities & friendly service.
Cruise 1 Upper Daintree (60mins) from Daintree Village, 5 Stewart Street: Whether you’re in a caravan, tent, or hammock, there’s space for everyone.
Spot birds, reptiles, and crocodiles in their natural rainforest habitat After a day of adventure, unwind at our licensed café, where you can enjoy
Cruise 2 Lower Daintree from Daintree Gateway Jetty, 315 Cape Tribulation specialty woodfired pizzas, a cold tap beer, or a cocktail.
Road: Explore the vast mangrove forests vital to the Daintree ecosystem. Start your Cape York adventure here or simply escape for the weekend.
Come Back Again Free ! Cruises depart regularly each day, with free Enquire about local discounts today!
additional cruises for 30 days. Get two cruises for the price of one! Save
10% book online use promo code“DAINTREE” Come camp “Where the Rainforest meets the Reef.”
greaterdaintree.com.au
GREATER
Enjoy breakfast and lunch at
Croc Xpresso Cafe, Book online or phone 07 4098 0077
8:00 am - 2:30 pm daily. WILDLIFE [email protected]
07 4098 6120
CRUISES capetribcamping.com.au

100 Port Douglas Magazine & Travel Planner