The Platypus Waterholes guided walk is one of the new activities planned for guests at Southern Ocean Lodge on Kangaroo Island. Here’s a sneak preview…
Heath Goanna (Varanus rosenbergi)
Kangaroo Island is seen as an important last stronghold for the Heath Goanna species.
Heath Goannas are unable to control their own body temperature and need to bask in the sun for at least half an hour each day before becoming active. The Heath Goanna’s skin is a darker colour than other goannas, so they can absorb and retain solar energy more readily, giving them longer times for foraging in Kangaroo Island’s cooler, denser vegetation.
In the evenings and in cooler weather, they retire into shallow burrows which are dug in the soil, or located in hollow logs, rock crevices and thick vegetation.
The Heath Goanna is powerfully built and can grow to 1.5 metres long. Their strong limbs are equipped with long, sharp, curved claws and their tails are long, slender and muscular. The teeth of the Heath Goanna are also large and curve backwards, making it difficult for captured prey to escape from their jaws.
The menu of the Heath Goanna consists of spiders, scorpions and other large insects, as well as frogs, snakes, lizards, small birds and mammals. The scavenging of carrion killed on the road is often a welcome addition. The Heath Goanna is also credited with successfully consuming rabbits introduced to Kangaroo Island earlier last century, as it will eagerly dig for prey.
Rosenberg's Heath Goanna
Keep your eyes peeled on the site and surrounds of Southern Ocean Lodge!
Baillie Lodges is excited to introduce the inaugural ‘Expedition Kangaroo Island’ at Southern Ocean Lodge in July 2010. The week-long program departing 24 July 2010 promises days and nights filled with adventure and learning in the company of like-minded travellers and with Southern Ocean Lodge as ‘luxury base camp’.
We are excited that the renowned naturalist Craig Wickham of Exceptional Kangaroo Island with whom we have worked closely since opening in 2008 will join us as Expedition Kangaroo Island leader.
Southern Ocean Lodge proprietor Hayley Baillie and the Lodge’s own team of naturalist guides will be part of each day’s itinerary, promising a very personal guided experience of the island.
Expedition Kangaroo Island is modelled on the much-loved Expedition Lord Howe programs run at sister property Capella Lodge over the past five years in cooperation with Aurora Expeditions, who are excited to be involved in the project again this year. Our Lord Howe expedition leader, the esteemed island naturalist Ian Hutton will also venture south to join the ‘KI’ contingent.
The program has been designed to allow guests, as ‘expeditioners’ the chance to explore first-hand a complete experience of the beautifully wild Kangaroo Island, showcasing its abundant native wildlife, spirited art, delicious local cuisine and fascinating history. In true expedition style, the week will be filled with interactive ‘hands-on’ adventures, guided walks, marine–based activities and informative presentations.
Download the e-brochure at http://southernoceanlodge.com.au/pdfs/downloads/EKI%20Web.pdf
Wexas Travel have kindly featured the Expedition in their latest news at http://www.wexas.com/1/tailor-made-holiday-news/-9678910.html
We hope to see you there!
