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Wildlife on the Road

Our wide open country is shared with all our wildlife, and unintended collisions are always a possibility. In this guide, learn about the wildlife you are likely to encounter and what to do when you have the bad luck to collide with an animal on the road

Australian Wildlife

Australia has many unique animals across the country and staying in a campervan can put you in closer contact than you would be if staying in hotels. For all campervan travellers there are some important things to know about what to expect from wildlife in Australia.

Wildlife on the Road

Throughout Australia there are yellow signs indicating to be alert for specific animals that may cross the road. It is important to always look out for wildlife while driving in Australia but extremely important to do so where the signs are located.

Some animals are most active at dawn and dusk, for this reason some vehicle providers have restrictions on travelling at these times and at night when outside of towns. Please check the rental agreement with your vehicle provider and plan your travel accordingly.

When passing wildlife that is close to or on the road reduce speed gradually while passing if safe to do so.

Examples of warning signs:

  • Kangaroos/Wallabies are one of the most common animals on the road. Kangaroos can hop out from the side of the road in front of vehicles when they are surprised/frightened. Accidents involving kangaroos can be extremely dangerous, extra caution should be taken when driving in areas with this sign.
  • Emus are larger than you might think with some standing at about 2m tall. Emus can be found in all Australian states except Tasmania. Be extra careful while travelling in Western Australia and Northern Territory.
  • Wild horses are prevalent in rural Australia. You may also find a “Shared Road” sign for horse riders. Horse riders in Australia are allowed on the road unless otherwise signed and so drivers must safely share the road. Slow down and pass horse riders only when safe to do so.
  • Australian Feral Camels are most common in the outback and are usually travelling in caravans (herds). Extra caution should be taken due to their size.

Interactions With Wildlife

While it can be tempting to get up close with some of the wildlife in Australia, by doing so you may not only be putting yourself in danger but also may be unknowingly disturbing the animals which uses up valuable energy otherwise used for escaping predators or foraging. Do not feed wildlife in Australia.

Snakes, frogs, and spiders are also commonly found while staying at campsites and caravan parks. Be sure to check toilet/shower stalls before entering, most locations will also have a sign reminding you close the door when entering or leaving to keep animals from entering. Give your shoes a shake before you put them on if they have been left outside unattended. When out walking, avoid walking through thick vegetation and watch where you step.

Accidents Involving Wildlife

If you have an accident involving any wildlife while driving the most important thing is to consider the safety of yourself and the other drivers on the road. If it is safe to do so, you can then pull over to the side of the road to check on the animal. If required, contact an animal care group or the RSPCA. Avoid approaching any animals that require special handling such as Kangaroos, Koalas, Raptors (eagle’s, hawks etc.), Snakes or Goannas (monitor lizards). If the animal is deceased, move it to the side of the road for the safety of other drivers and then check your vehicle for damage.

If there is damage to your vehicle, please call the on-road care team of your vehicle provider. A contact number will be on your key chain or on the documents provided at pick up.

Expert Tip

We recommend planning long distance driving for during the middle of the day to avoid driving at dawn and dusk which are the most dangerous times for accidents involving wildlife.

Other Things to Consider

During Your Trip

When Hiring a Campervan Hire