Face-to-Fuzz: A Visitor’s Guide to Bonorong Wildlife Sanctuary
Get close to Tasmanian devils, kangaroos and the people who save them.
The first thing you notice at Bonorong is how quiet the wildlife can be until it chooses not to be. You step through a gate framed by eucalyptus and the suburban hum of Hobart falls away; in its place come the small, insistent sounds of a sanctuary doing its work—soft thumps from a wombat tunnel, the impatient clicking of a kookaburra, a wallaby nose probing the air like a curious child. The animals move on their terms here: kangaroos approach with careful confidence, wombats shuffle like squat old men, and Tasmanian devils—compact, muscular, theatrically vocal—announce themselves when they want attention.
Trail Wisdom
Go early or late
Animals are most active at dawn and dusk—arrive early or book late-afternoon slots for better viewing and softer light.
Hand-feed responsibly
Only feed kangaroos and wallabies in designated areas with food provided by staff to avoid upsetting diets and behavior.
No flash in nocturnal houses
Use a wide aperture and higher ISO instead of flash in low-light enclosures to protect the animals and get usable photos.
Combine with nearby parks
Pair Bonorong with Mt. Field or kunanyi/Mt Wellington on a day tour to see waterfalls, forests, and wildlife in one efficient itinerary.
Local Knowledge
Hidden Gems
- •The Agrarian Kitchen (weekend dining near Mt. Field) for farm-to-table lunches
- •Historic Richmond village—stop at the convict-built Richmond Bridge for a quiet stroll
Wildlife
Tasmanian devil, Eastern grey kangaroo
Conservation Note
Bonorong focuses on rescue, rehabilitation and release when possible, and contributes to disease monitoring and public education programs for species like the Tasmanian devil.
Bonorong began as a small rescue and educational site and has grown into a licensed wildlife hospital that plays a role in Tasmanian conservation efforts.
Seasonal Guide
spring
Best for: Active marsupials, Baby wildlife (joeys), Wildflowers
Challenges: Changeable weather, Roadside calving on farm roads
Spring (September–November) brings joeys and increased animal activity—ideal for wildlife spotting, but pack layers for quick temperature changes.
summer
Best for: Long daylight hours, Combining with coastal trips, Family visits
Challenges: Higher visitor numbers, Hot midday temperatures
Summer offers extended visiting hours and warm days—visit early to avoid crowds and midday heat; sunscreen and hats are recommended.
fall
Best for: Clear light for photography, Calmer crowds, Cooler animal activity
Challenges: Shortening daylight, Chilly mornings
Autumn delivers crisp light and fewer visitors—great for photography and more relaxed walks through enclosures and paddocks.
winter
Best for: Nocturnal house visits, Laurical bird sightings, Off-peak travel
Challenges: Cold and wet weather, Reduced daylight hours
Winter can be atmospheric with quieter grounds; wear waterproof, warm layers and plan shorter outdoor waits between exhibits.
Photographer's Notes
What to Bring
Sturdy closed-toe shoesEssential
Comfortable shoes keep you steady on paddocks and gravel paths.
Refillable water bottleEssential
Tasmania has limited public taps; stay hydrated during tours and outdoor talks.
Weatherproof layerEssential
A windproof, waterproof outer layer handles sudden showers and coastal breezes.
Mid-telephoto lens or binoculars
A 70–200mm lens or compact binoculars let you capture animals without disturbing them.
Common Questions
How long should I plan to spend at Bonorong?
Allow 60–90 minutes for a focused visit; tours typically schedule 90 minutes to two hours so you can see main exhibits and attend keeper talks.
Can I feed the animals?
Yes—hand-feeding is allowed only in designated areas with food provided by staff; follow keeper instructions to protect animal diets.
Are there guided tours or keeper talks?
Yes—Bonorong runs keeper talks and many charter or day tours include a guided stop; check your tour itinerary or the sanctuary schedule on arrival.
Is Bonorong wheelchair accessible?
Many paths and viewing platforms are accessible, but some paddocks and uneven surfaces may be challenging; contact the sanctuary ahead for detailed accessibility info.
Can I photograph animals?
Photography is encouraged but flash is prohibited in nocturnal houses and close-up areas to avoid stressing the animals.
How does Bonorong help conservation?
The sanctuary operates a wildlife hospital, rescue network, and rehabilitation program, participates in Tasmanian devil management, and educates visitors on preventing human impacts like road strikes.
What to Pack
Closed-toe shoes, refillable water bottle, weatherproof jacket, mid-telephoto lens/binoculars — for safety, hydration, comfort in changing weather, and better photos.
Did You Know
Bonorong Wildlife Sanctuary is about a 25–30 minute (roughly 25–30 km) drive north of central Hobart, making it an easy half-day stop from the city.
Quick Travel Tips
1) Combine Bonorong with Mt. Field or kunanyi on a single day tour; 2) Book morning or late-afternoon slots to see active animals; 3) Leave flash and loose food in your bag; 4) Bring cash or card for donations and local artisan stalls.
Local Flavor
Pair a sanctuary visit with Salamanca Market in Hobart, a farm-to-table lunch at the Agrarian Kitchen, and a stop in Richmond for convict-era history and local cheeses—Tasmania’s food and conservation scenes often travel together.
Logistics Snapshot
Location: ~30 minutes north of Hobart; Typical visit: 60–90 minutes; Best time: early morning or late afternoon; Bookings: onsite or via Hobart day tours; Accessibility: partial—contact ahead.
Sustainability Note
Support the sanctuary by following feeding rules, staying on paths, avoiding single-use plastics, and considering a donation or volunteer inquiry—direct visitor support funds rescue and rehabilitation work.