Featherdale Sydney Wildlife Park is in Doonside, in Sydney’s west, and focuses on Australian native animals. Its compact layout brings you close to kangaroos, wallabies, koalas and wombats, with birds and reptiles to look for as you walk around. Buy a cup of animal food to hand-feed kangaroos and wallabies, or book a koala encounter for a closer look and a photo. It’s a good choice for families and anyone keen to see Australian wildlife without spending the day at a larger zoo.
A park focused on Australian wildlife
Featherdale Sydney Wildlife Park is at 217 Kildare Road in Doonside, in Sydney’s west. Opened in 1972, it centres on native Australian animals, including koalas, kangaroos, wallabies, wombats, echidnas, Tasmanian devils, dingoes and a wide range of birds and reptiles.
The park’s smaller scale makes it straightforward to explore on foot. Animals are often close to the paths and, in some areas, kangaroos and wallabies move through walk-through spaces. You can also look for less familiar species, such as quokkas, quolls and bilbies. The collection includes threatened species, among them Tasmanian devils and yellow-footed rock-wallabies.
Feeding kangaroos and meeting a koala
Hand-feeding kangaroos and wallabies is one of the main reasons to visit. Cups of animal food are available to buy, and arriving early gives you a better chance of finding animals ready to eat. Save some food for later in your visit rather than using it all at the first enclosure.
A koala encounter is another option. The park has experiences that bring you closer to a koala, with a chance to take a photo; this is a separate paid experience. Encounter details can differ, so check the park’s current information before booking. Keep the animals’ space and welfare in mind during interactions, and follow staff instructions.
Birds, family activities and getting around
Allow time to explore the bird enclosures as well as the mammal areas. Native birds are among the park’s highlights, and the route is manageable for a family visit. Children can also follow the Wildlife Adventure Trail, searching around the park for stamps.
There are shaded areas, hand-washing stations and a café with gluten-free options. A gift shop sells souvenirs. The park is a family-friendly stop for a few hours, but it is smaller than a full-scale zoo, so plan around its focus on Australian wildlife rather than expecting a broad collection of animals from around the world.
Planning your visit
Featherdale is in Doonside, about 45 minutes from Sydney’s central business district by car according to the travel information provided. Public transport combined with a short walk or other onward ride is another way to reach the park. Check your route before setting out.
Tickets bought online may be discounted, and advance booking is recommended. Check the park’s website for current ticket and encounter details. The park is open daily from 8am to 5pm. Arriving in the morning can also help you make the most of the animal-feeding areas before the animals have eaten.
Perguntas frequentes
Where is Featherdale Sydney Wildlife Park?
It is at 217 Kildare Road in Doonside, in Sydney’s west.
How long do you need at Featherdale?
Allow around 2 to 3 hours to explore the animal areas and try the feeding or encounter experiences.
Can you feed kangaroos at Featherdale?
Yes. Cups of animal food are available to buy, and you can feed kangaroos and wallabies in their walk-through area.
Can you take a photo with a koala?
A koala encounter with a photo is available for an extra fee. Check the park’s website for current details.
When is the best time to visit Featherdale?
Arrive early in the morning, when animals are more active and more likely to be interested in food.
