Western Port
Facts and practical information
Western Port, commonly but unofficially known as Western Port Bay, is a large tidal bay in southern Victoria, Australia, opening into Bass Strait. It is the second largest bay in the state. Geographically, it is dominated by two large islands; French Island and Phillip Island. At the time it was renamed, its position was west of other known ports and bays, but Western Port has become something of a misnomer as it lies just to the east of the larger Port Phillip and the city of Melbourne. It is visited by Australian fur seals, whales and dolphins, as well as many migratory waders and seabirds. It is listed under the Ramsar Convention as a wetland of international significance. ()
Victoria
Best Ways to Experience the Park
Wildlife
AnimalsSee what popular animal species you can meet in this location.
Orange-bellied parrot
The orange-bellied parrot is a small, vibrant bird native to southern Australia, and it is one of the few parrot species that migrate. First described by John Latham in 1790, these parrots are renowned for their striking appearance.
Birds
Eastern Curlew
The Far Eastern curlew is a large shorebird, resembling the long-billed curlew but slightly larger. Its predominantly brown plumage and plain brown underwings distinguish it from other curlew species. This bird holds the title of the largest curlew and is potentially...
Birds
Peregrine falcon
The peregrine falcon, a member of the Falconidae family, is celebrated for its astonishing speed and hunting prowess. It can reach speeds exceeding 320 km/h (200 mph) during its iconic dive, known as a stoop, making it the fastest bird and animal on Earth.
Birds
Koala ("Bear")
The koala, often mistakenly referred to as the koala bear, is a herbivorous marsupial endemic to Australia. It is the sole extant species of the Phascolarctidae family. You'll find koalas inhabiting the coastal regions of eastern and southern Australia, particularly in...
Mammals
Hooded dotterel
The hooded dotterel, also known as the hooded plover, is an endearing bird native to southern Australia and Tasmania. Typically, you can spot these birds on ocean beaches and around subcoastal lagoons. There are two subspecies of the hooded dotterel, with the eastern...
Birds
Victoria