J.3/ Beautiful Critters & Creatures: Discover the Wildlife of Tamborine Mountain
One of the most magical things about staying at The Maple Suite on Tamborine Mountain is how close you are to nature. Tucked among rainforest and perched in the cool mountain air, our suite is the perfect place to unwind—but it’s also a front-row seat to some of Queensland’s most fascinating native wildlife.
Whether you're a keen birdwatcher, animal lover, or just someone who appreciates nature, Tamborine Mountain offers unique opportunities to see, hear, and connect with Australian wildlife—no binoculars required.
Here’s just a taste of the amazing animals you might encounter during your stay.
Wallabies & Pademelons: Morning & Late Night Visitors
Wake up early and you may spot red-necked wallabies quietly grazing near the edges of the forest, especially at dawn or dusk.
Even more common are pademelons—small, shy marsupials that look like miniature wallabies. These rainforest dwellers are often seen on walking trails or hopping through undergrowth near The Maple Suite. They're especially active in the cooler parts of the day and in the evenings, so keep your camera ready!
Birdwatcher's Paradise
Tamborine Mountain is part of the Scenic Rim Bird Trail, making it a dream destination for bird lovers. Over 150 species of birds have been recorded in the area.
Here are some to look (and listen) for:
Eastern whipbirds – Their signature whip-crack call echoes through the rainforest.
Albert’s lyrebird – Rare and secretive, but occasionally seen scratching through leaf litter.
King parrots and crimson rosellas – Bright and colourful, often spotted in the trees near your balcony.
Kookaburras – Their famous laugh often signals sunrise or sunset. They are our favourite! You’ll often see them hanging out in the yard, beneath The Maple Suite.
Wise owls – If you're lucky, you might hear one hooting at night.
Bring binoculars or simply sit on the deck with your morning coffee and enjoy the show.
Reptiles & Rainforest Creatures
The rainforest is teeming with smaller, quieter life. Along trails and in your garden surroundings, you might notice:
Eastern water dragons – Sun-loving lizards often spotted near creeks.
Tree skinks and geckos – Common on warm days or hiding among the rocks.
Leaf-tailed geckos – A rare sight, but this master of camouflage is native to the area.
Don’t worry—most of the reptiles you’ll encounter here are harmless and more afraid of you than you are of them.
Magical After Dark: Glow Worms & Nocturnal Life
One of Tamborine Mountain’s most unique wildlife encounters happens after the sun goes down.
Visit the Tamborine Mountain Glow Worm Caves, where you can safely explore a man-made cave home to thousands of tiny bioluminescent creatures. It's a magical, family-friendly experience.
At night, the mountain also comes alive with microbats, ringtail and brushtail possums, frogs, and the occasional tawny frogmouth—a nocturnal bird that looks like an owl and resembles part of a tree branch! We’ve got a resident one that visits on occasion—it’s beautiful!
Bees, Butterflies & Insects
In spring and summer, the gardens around The Maple Suite are buzzing with life:
Blue triangle butterflies, orchard swallowtails, and monarchs add a splash of colour.
Native bees and dragonflies float through the air, especially near flowering trees.
After rain, listen for the chorus of frogs that fill the night with song.
A Gentle Reminder: Respecting Wildlife
We encourage all guests to enjoy Tamborine Mountain’s wildlife responsibly. Please:
Watch from a distance.
Avoid feeding wild animals.
Stick to marked trails.
Drive carefully, especially at night.
If you see an injured animal, and if possible and safe to do so, please call Wildcare (07 5527 2444) for assistance, guidance, and help (https://wildcare.org.au/). Wildcare Australia Inc is a non-profit organisation situated in South-East Queensland–comprised of wonderful volunteers that rescue and care for sick, injured, orphaned and displaced native wildlife with the intention of returning them to the wild.
Remember, you're visiting their home! We share this land with them. Our wildlife—big and small—are precious and vulnerable. They deserve dignity and respect. Tread lightly and help us protect the creatures who call this mountain home.
Stay at The Maple Suite – Your Wildlife Retreat
There’s no need to visit a zoo when you stay at The Maple Suite—nature is right outside your door. Whether it's wallabies at sunrise or frogs singing you to sleep, Tamborine Mountain offers a true connection to the wild.
So slow down, breathe in the mountain air, and keep your eyes open—you never know what might hop, flutter, or call past next.