Winter Wildlife Watching in Australia: Snow Season in the Snowy Mountains

Winter in the Snowy Mountains isn’t just about skiing. When the snow settles, the whole landscape changes and so do the animals that live here. Some disappear completely, burrowing underground until the cold passes. Others stay active, leaving fresh tracks in the snow. And a few, like wombats and kangaroos, are actually easier to spot in the open. If you’ve never gone wildlife watching in winter, this is the place to do it.

Kosciuszko National Park Winter Wildlife

The Kosciuszko National Park winter wildlife is some of the most unique in Australia. The colder months bring out a side of the mountains that most people never see. Snow gums stand frozen in time, rivers slow to a trickle, and some of the country’s most unique animals adapt to survive.

Mountain Pygmy-possum

You won’t see a mountain pygmy-possum in winter, but that’s because it’s one of the few Australian mammals that hibernate. They spend the colder months in hibernation, curled up beneath the snow to stay warm. They only wake up when spring arrives, ready to feast on bogong moths and other insects. These possums are tiny, about the size of a mouse, and incredibly rare—most people will never see one in the wild.

Broad-toothed Rat

Unlike the pygmy possum, the broad-toothed rat doesn’t hibernate. It spends winter moving through tunnels hidden beneath the snow, searching for roots and grasses to eat. Its thick fur helps it handle the cold, but staying underground is what really keeps it safe. They’re not easy to spot, but if you look closely at the snow near the base of shrubs or rocks, you might see the tiny tracks they leave behind.

Snowy Mountains Wildlife in Winter

Outside the alpine zones, other animals make their own winter adjustments. The Snowy Mountains wildlife in winter is diverse, and some creatures are actually easier to spot once the snow sets in.

Wombats

Wombats are built for tough conditions. Their burrows stay warmer than the air outside, making them the perfect winter hideout. You’ll still see them out and about, though—especially in the late afternoon when they emerge to graze. Their thick fur helps them handle the cold, and their tracks in the snow are easy to spot if you keep an eye out.

Kangaroos and Wallabies

Most people think of kangaroos bouncing through dry bushland, but plenty of them live in the high country, too. Eastern grey kangaroos and red-necked wallabies stick to lower altitudes in winter, where there’s more food and less snow. You’ll often see them near the edges of forests, foraging for whatever they can find.

Birdlife in Winter

While some birds migrate to warmer areas, others stick around. Flame robins, with their bright orange chests, stand out against the snow, while currawongs and ravens are a common sight. If you’re lucky, you might even spot a wedge-tailed eagle soaring over the mountains.

Where to See Winter Wildlife in the Snowy Mountains

If you’re keen to see wildlife during the snow season in the Snowy Mountains, here are some great spots to try:

• Kosciuszko National Park – Great for wombats, kangaroos, and birdlife.
• Yarrangobilly Caves – A good place to spot echidnas, especially on warmer winter days.
• Thredbo Valley Track – Watch for wallabies and wombats along the trail.
• Dead Horse Gap – Keep an eye out for wild brumbies and alpine birds.

Plan Your Snowy Mountains Winter Wildlife Trip

The Snowy Mountains’ wildlife in winter is just as fascinating as the landscapes themselves. From wombats to wallabies and hidden alpine creatures, there’s always something to see.

Looking for a place to stay? Discover Snowy Mountains has a range of cosy stays near the best wildlife-watching spots. Book your Snowy Mountains accommodation and start planning your winter adventure today.