More than 60 fauna species of state and national significance can be found along the Great Ocean Road coast, the vulnerable Hooded Plover and near threatened Rufous Bristlebird among them. Other more common native species, such as Echidnas, Kangaroos, Koalas and many others, are also in abundance. Our seashores similarly provide a range of marine habitats for fish, sponges, invertebrates and other marine creatures, such as the fascinating Decorator Crab and Victoria's marine emblem, the Weedy Seadragon.

While our coast is a haven for native wildlife, many indigenous species are increasingly under threat on a number of fronts, from loss of habitat due to invasive weeds and climate change impacts to the affects of more people and other animals, such as dogs and cats. We all need to do our bit to protect our native fauna from such threats and to conserve it for future generations.

Animal species

(L-R) Antechinus and Echidna

Bird species

(L-R) Australian King Parrot (common) and Great Egret (vulnerable)

(L-R) Hooded Plovers (vulnerable) and Rufous Bristlebird (near threatened)

Marine species

(L-R) Decorator Crab and Weedy Seadragon (State marine emblem)

Reptile species

(L-R) Eastern Three-lined Skink and Lowland Copperhead