Devils in the Wild: An Up‑Close Conservation Walk at Aussie Ark

Situated in the lush expanse of Barrington Tops, New South Wales, Aussie Ark offers one of Australia’s most compelling wildlife experiences: the Devils in the Wild tour. This 2.5-hour guided journey ventures deep into the sanctuary where endangered species such as Tasmanian Devils, Eastern Quolls, and Brush-Tailed Rock-Wallabies are thriving in large, free-range enclosures. The setting itself is a striking example of protected temperate forest ecosystem, characterized by ancient eucalypts and dense understory that create a natural backdrop for conservation in practice.

Aussie Ark stands apart as a global leader in species protection, focusing on breeding and reintroducing threatened Australian fauna. Their work with Tasmanian Devils is especially critical, as this species faces extinction threats from Devil Facial Tumour Disease. During the tour, expert Rangers lead small groups through the sanctuary, sharing deep insights into animal behavior, the species’ ecological roles, and the intense conservation efforts required to secure their future. Visitors witness the Devils’ natural communal feeding—a rare sight that reveals the animals’ social dynamics beyond the wild.

Beyond the Devils, the experience extends to meeting Eastern Quolls and inquisitive Potoroos, with the added chance of interacting with hand-raised joeys during the spring and summer seasons. This immersive connection with Australia’s native wildlife offers a rare lens into the continent’s unique biodiversity and the science behind Aussie Ark’s successful captive breeding programs.

The Barrington Tops region itself is a lesser-known wilderness gem, rich in biodiversity and part of a World Heritage-listed area. It’s a vital refuge for numerous species, making Aussie Ark an essential destination for travelers interested in conservation-focused wildlife encounters, away from traditional tourist routes. This tour not only opens a window to Australia’s vanishing fauna but also champions sustainable wildlife tourism and environmental stewardship that benefits both nature and visitors alike.