Main Track
Open
Open 9am – 5pm every day of the year
Free Spirits of the Sky
12:00 pm every day
On the Main Track, a huge variety of reptiles and amphibians can be seen in their natural habitats. See majestic birds of prey and magnificent parrots on full display at our world-renowned flight area; besides kangaroos, koalas, emus and more! Share in Healesville Sanctuary’s sites of Aboriginal cultural significance on the land of the Wurundjeri people of the Kulin Nation.
Southern Cassowary
The striking Southern Cassowary, also called the double-wattled cassowary, lives in north-eastern Australia. Fruit is a favourite feast of this flightless black bird, and they help maintain rainforest diversity by moving large seeds around.
Emu
Emus are native to Australia and are found across most of the country. They can't fly, but they can run as fast as 40-50km per hour. Emus enjoy eating plants and occasionally insects. Male emus are dedicated parents, preparing nests for their chicks and caring for them after hatching.
Orange-bellied Parrot
One of only three migratory parrot species, the Orange-bellied Parrot is named for its vivid orange belly. They travel from Tasmania to south-eastern Australia every winter. These industrious fliers are critically endangered and at risk of extinction in the next three to five years without urgent action.
Conservation Status
Critically Endangered
Reptiles
Australia is home to roughly 1000 species of reptiles. In the Reptile House you'll see a diverse range of reptiles, from ones that live in warm Kimberley billabongs to others from the snow-capped Bogong High Plains, as well as a massive Scrub Python and the tiny, endangered Guthega Skink.
Land of Parrots
Serious twitchers and budding bird-lovers will adore this unique walk-through aviary, showing off Australia's magnificent birds. From tiny budgerigars and Red-Tail Cockatoos, to Eclectus Parrots, lorikeets, Zebra Finches and Regent Parrots, experience a range of feathered friends and enjoy talks from experts.
Flight Arena
Spirits of the Sky is held at our world-renowned Flight Arena. Australia's majestic birds of prey and magnificent parrots show off their flight skills in this spectacular daily show. Find out how birds have adapted to an ever-changing world and discover who really rules the skies.
Lyrebird
Lyrebirds are famous for their mimicry, echoing the sounds of everything from bird calls to chainsaws and cars. The male dances to show off his lyre-shaped tail during mating season.
In their forest habitats, in south-eastern Australia, Lyrebirds use their claws to scratch for insects, worms, grubs, snails and spiders.
Wurundjeri Walk
Wurundjeri Walk celebrates the life of Indigenous Elder William Barak, a protector of his people and his culture. The walk takes visitors to sculpture and a Dreaming Place, and passes an ancient scar tree and bark canoe.
Emotive soundscapes unfold as four generations of Elders reflect on their family stories and the spiritual heartland of Coranderrk Station.
Guthega Skink
The Guthega Skink is endangered in Victoria and is only found on the Bogong High Plains.
Conservation Status
Endangered
Brolga
Brolgas are found from the north east of Australia to Victoria. They're omnivorous and eat a range of plants and small animals. Brolgas partner for life, and the males and females both look after the chicks once they're born. These graceful birds are famous for their courtship ritual—an elaborate dance with trumpet-like calls.
Australian Wildlife Health Centre
The Australian Wildlife Health Centre treats more than 1,500 sick and injured native animals each year. It’s an important training centre for wildlife veterinarians, and the home of vital conservation programs and research.
Future Vets
The Future Vets play space is a mini wildlife hospital that provides a backdrop for imagination and role-play. Children and parents can dress up in vets’ scrubs and help care for different creatures, such as wombats, flying foxes and turtles