N S W E
Wildlife Expeditions

Wildlife of
Papua New Guinea

Papua New Guinea is a biodiversity powerhouse where travelers come for dazzling birds-of-paradise, rare marsupials like tree kangaroos, and world-class coral reefs set against some of Earth's most intact tropical rainforests.
190 Species
462,840 km² Land Area
Overview

About Papua New Guinea

Papua New Guinea (PNG) sits at the crossroads of Asia and Australia, and its wildlife reflects that unique biogeographic history: an extraordinary mix of ancient lineages and high endemism across mountains, lowland jungles, and island archipelagos. Much of the country remains wild and lightly surveyed, making it one of the planet's great frontiers for biodiversity-famous for spectacular birds (especially birds-of-paradise), unusual mammals (cuscus, echidnas, and tree kangaroos), rich amphibian diversity, and an insect world that can feel limitless.

Its ecosystems are as dramatic as its terrain. The Central Range and cloud forests support specialized, often range-restricted species; vast lowland rainforests and swamp forests shelter cassowaries, crocodiles, and dense birdlife; and mangroves and seagrass beds form critical nurseries linking land and sea. Offshore, PNG lies within the Coral Triangle, and its reefs-from sheltered bays to steep drop-offs-are renowned for coral diversity, reef fish biomass, sharks and rays, and macro-life prized by divers, while its fjord-like inlets and volcanic islands create a mosaic of habitats rarely matched in one nation.

Globally, PNG is pivotal to conservation because so much of its biodiversity is both endemic and still relatively intact-protecting it safeguards evolutionary history found nowhere else. Conservation here is also distinctive: most land is under customary ownership, so community-led stewardship, locally managed protected areas, and partnerships with Indigenous landholders are central to outcomes on the ground. For visitors, the wildlife experience is uniquely immersive-dawn bird hides for courtship displays, forest treks where new species are still being documented, and reef dives that can shift from big pelagics to tiny, surreal critters within the same day.

Physical Features

Geography

Papua New Guinea's wildlife patterns are strongly shaped by extreme topographic relief, large river basins, and a vast, fragmented coastline with many islands. The Central Range and associated highlands create steep elevational gradients (lowland rainforest to cloud forest and alpine zones) and isolate valleys and mountain blocks, driving high endemism. Major rivers and floodplains (e.g., Sepik, Fly) support extensive freshwater swamp forests and seasonal wetlands that differ markedly from upland habitats. Coastal plains, mangroves, seagrass, and coral reefs-within the Coral Triangle-add highly productive marine and estuarine habitats and further biogeographic partitioning across archipelagos (Bismarck, Louisiade, etc.).

462,840 km² Land Area
~54th largest country; about the size of California Size Rank

Key Landscapes

  • Central Range / New Guinea Highlands (including Mt. Wilhelm) with montane cloud forests and alpine grasslands
  • Owen Stanley Range and the Papuan Peninsula mountains (strong rain-shadow and altitudinal habitat zonation)
  • Large river systems and floodplains: Sepik River basin (north) and Fly River basin (southwest) with oxbows, wetlands, and swamp forests
  • Gulf of Papua lowlands and extensive peat/swamp complexes (important for waterbirds, crocodilians, and wetland specialists)
  • Coastal plains and deltas (sediment-rich estuaries supporting mangroves and nursery grounds)
  • Mangrove belts and tidal flats along sheltered coasts and bays
  • Karst and limestone landscapes (caves, sinkholes, subterranean waterways; localized endemism)
  • Bismarck Archipelago (New Britain, New Ireland, Manus/Admiralty Islands) with island endemics and distinct forest types
  • Louisiade Archipelago and other offshore islands (isolation-driven endemism, seabird colonies)
  • Coral reefs, lagoons, and seagrass meadows in the Bismarck and Solomon Seas (high marine biodiversity and connectivity)

Ecoregions

  • Northern New Guinea lowland rain and freshwater swamp forests (WWF)
  • Southern New Guinea lowland rain and freshwater swamp forests (WWF)
  • New Guinea montane rain forests (WWF)
  • Huon Peninsula montane rain forests (WWF)
  • New Guinea mangroves (WWF)
  • Trans Fly savanna and grasslands (WWF)
  • New Britain-New Ireland lowland rain forests (WWF)
  • New Britain montane rain forests (WWF)
  • Admiralty Islands lowland rain forests (WWF)
Parks & Reserves

Protected Areas

Papua New Guinea (PNG) has extraordinary biodiversity across lowland rainforests, montane cloud forests, savannas, mangroves, and coral reefs. Its protected area system is relatively small in formally gazetted coverage but is complemented by extensive community-based conservation on customary land (the majority of PNG's land is under customary ownership). Key protected-area instruments include National Parks, provincial parks, Wildlife Management Areas (WMAs; typically community-declared and managed for wildlife and sustainable use), and Conservation Areas (including large, community-led landscapes).

Protected Coverage

Approximate land under formal protection (gazetted protected areas and WMAs combined): ~3-4% of terrestrial area (estimates vary by dataset and how community-conserved areas are counted). Community-led conservation beyond formal gazettal can increase the effectively conserved footprint, but coverage and enforcement are uneven.

Notable Parks & Reserves

Varirata National Park

National Park

PNG's best-known easily accessible park (near Port Moresby), protecting hill rainforest that is a stronghold for birds-of-paradise and other dry-to-moist forest birds. It is a prime site for wildlife viewing, especially birding.

Raggiana bird-of-paradise
Growling riflebird
Papuan harrier
Papuan kingfisher
Blyth's hornbill
Doria's goshawk

Crater Mountain Wildlife Management Area

Wildlife Management Area (community-managed protected area)

A rugged, largely intact block of montane rainforest and cloud forest with exceptional endemism and long-running biological research. Notable for birds-of-paradise, parrots, and mammals including tree kangaroos in remote, high-biodiversity habitats.

Raggiana bird-of-paradise
King of Saxony bird-of-paradise
Wattled ploughbill
Goodfellow's tree kangaroo
Common spotted cuscus
Common spotted cuscus
Southern cassowary

YUS Conservation Area (Yopno-Uruwa-Som)

Conservation Area (community-led; nationally recognized)

The first nationally recognized conservation area in PNG, spanning an elevational range from lowlands to high mountains on the Huon Peninsula. It is globally significant for conserving endemic mammals and birds, especially tree kangaroos and intact forest bird communities.

Matschie's tree kangaroo
New Guinea singing dog (rare/uncertain)
Blyth's hornbill
Papuan pitta
Crowned pigeon (Victoria or related spp. in region)

Tonda Wildlife Management Area (Trans-Fly, Western Province)

Wildlife Management Area; Ramsar Wetland of International Importance

PNG's largest WMA, protecting a major complex of savanna, seasonal wetlands, and riverine habitats in the Trans-Fly region-important for large reptiles and migratory/colonial waterbirds. It is one of PNG's most important wetland conservation landscapes.

Saltwater crocodile
New Guinea freshwater crocodile
Pig-nosed turtle
Pig-nosed turtle
Magpie goose
Brolga
Agile wallaby

Lake Kutubu Wildlife Management Area

Wildlife Management Area; Ramsar Wetland of International Importance

A center of freshwater endemism, safeguarding a limestone lake and surrounding forests with several locally endemic fish and high conservation value for freshwater ecosystems. It is also important for nearby wetland/river biodiversity and community conservation.

Kutubu rainbowfish
Lake Kutubu gudgeon
Freshwater crocodile
Freshwater crocodile
Papuan python
Blyth's hornbill
Little kingfisher

Mount Kaindi National Park

National Park

Montane forest and highland habitats near Wau, valued for orchids, birds, and cool-climate rainforest wildlife. It is a notable highland site for bird diversity and conservation education/visitation.

Princess Stephanie's astrapia
Loria's satinbird
Papuan lorikeet
Brown sicklebill
Mountain peltops
Spotted cuscus
Spotted cuscus

Mount Gahavisuka Provincial Park

Provincial Park (protected area managed at provincial level)

A well-known highlands park protecting montane forest mosaics that support diverse birdlife, including honeyeaters and parrots, and offering accessible viewing opportunities. It is especially notable for high-elevation forest species and local endemics.

Blue-capped ifrit
Eastern crested berrypecker
Papuan lorikeet
Wattled ploughbill
Brehm's tiger-parrot
Brown cuckoo-dove
Animals

Wildlife

Papua New Guinea (PNG) sits at the crossroads of Australasian and Indo-Malayan biotas and is one of Earth's standout centers of biodiversity and endemism. Its wildlife character is defined by vast, still-intact lowland and montane rainforests, rugged cloud-forest ranges, extensive river systems (e.g., Sepik/Fly), and exceptionally rich coral reefs (Kimbe Bay, Milne Bay, Tufi). PNG is globally famous for birds-of-paradise displays, an extraordinary radiation of marsupials (especially tree kangaroos), and high amphibian diversity-much of it restricted to New Guinea and, in several cases, to PNG's own mountain blocks and islands.

c. 230-260 species (notably bats, rodents, and marsupials incl. multiple tree-kangaroos) Mammals
c. 740-780 species (very high endemism; major stronghold for birds-of-paradise) Birds
c. 320-380 species (incl. crocodiles, monitors, sea snakes, many skinks/geckos) Reptiles
c. 200-250+ species (particularly rich in rainforest and montane frogs; many localized endemics) Amphibians

Iconic Species

Raggiana Bird-of-paradise PNG's national bird and a signature rainforest spectacle; males perform lek displays with brilliant red-orange plumes. Often sought in the Highlands and foothill forests (e.g., areas around Tari and other birding lodges/sites).
Southern Cassowary A keystone rainforest frugivore and one of the world's largest birds; encountered in lowland forests and swamp-forest mosaics (including parts of the south and north-coast lowlands), though typically shy and best found with local guides.
Goodfellow's Tree-kangaroo One of PNG's most emblematic marsupials, associated with mid- to high-elevation forests; a flagship species for community conservation areas in the Highlands and ranges where forest remains intact.
Long-beaked Echidna A distinctive, ancient monotreme lineage found only on New Guinea; PNG's highland and montane forests are among the best remaining refuges. Very elusive and rarely seen without strong local knowledge.
Papuan Eagle (New Guinea Harpy Eagle) An apex forest raptor of New Guinea's big trees, strongly associated with extensive primary rainforest. A dream species for specialist birders, most likely in large lowland/foothill forest tracts.
Victoria Crowned Pigeon One of the world's largest and most spectacular pigeons, prized for its lacy crest; strongly tied to lowland rainforest and swamp-forest habitats, especially in the north and associated islands where suitable forest persists.
Saltwater Crocodile A top predator of PNG's estuaries, mangroves, and major rivers; most iconic along large lowland river systems and coastal wetlands (e.g., Sepik and Fly river regions).
Leatherback Sea Turtle
Leatherback Sea Turtle PNG supports regionally important nesting and foraging areas for this globally threatened giant; nesting beaches and adjacent seas in the western Pacific (notably along parts of the Huon Coast and nearby waters) are conservation priorities.
Dugong
Dugong A flagship marine mammal of seagrass meadows in sheltered bays and lagoons; best associated with PNG's quieter coastal habitats and island groups where seagrass is extensive and hunting pressure is low.
Whale Shark
Whale Shark A marquee pelagic species for divers/snorkelers; seasonal appearances occur in some PNG waters, complementing the country's globally renowned reef biodiversity (e.g., Kimbe Bay/Milne Bay regions depending on season and local conditions).

Endemic Species

Blue Bird-of-paradise A spectacular bird-of-paradise largely restricted to PNG's Eastern Highlands region; famed for intense blue plumage and high-elevation forest display sites. Endemic
Emperor Bird-of-paradise A high-montane bird-of-paradise primarily associated with PNG's central ranges; sought by specialist birders in upper montane forests where access is possible. Endemic
Huon Tree-kangaroo Endemic to PNG's Huon Peninsula; a flagship for community-based forest conservation in the peninsula's montane forests. Endemic
Tenkile (Scott's Tree-kangaroo) A highly range-restricted tree-kangaroo endemic to PNG's Torricelli Mountains; globally important conservation focus due to its tiny distribution. Endemic
Queen Alexandra's Birdwing The world's largest butterfly, restricted to lowland rainforest in Papua New Guinea (notably in Oro Province). It is threatened by habitat loss and has a very limited range, making it a notable Papua New Guinea endemic species. Endemic
New Guinea Crocodile A New Guinea endemic freshwater crocodile (distinct from saltwater crocodile), associated with inland rivers, lakes, and swamps; particularly relevant in PNG's major lowland wetland systems. Endemic
New Britain Tree-kangaroo A localized island form restricted to PNG's Bismarck Archipelago (New Britain); highlights PNG's strong island endemism and rapid diversification of mammals on offshore islands. Endemic

Notable Populations

  • PNG (with the rest of New Guinea) holds the global stronghold for birds-of-paradise-most species occur only on New Guinea and nearby satellite islands, making PNG one of the best places on Earth to see multiple species on a single trip.
  • PNG contains the entire global range of several highly localized tree-kangaroos (e.g., Huon Tree-kangaroo on the Huon Peninsula; Tenkile in the Torricelli Mountains), making these areas globally critical for their survival.
  • The Huon Coast and adjacent western Pacific waters are internationally recognized for important Leatherback Sea Turtle nesting/foraging habitat, contributing to conservation of one of the world's most threatened marine megafauna species.
  • PNG's reefs (e.g., Kimbe Bay and Milne Bay) sit within the Coral Triangle influence zone and support exceptionally high coral and reef-fish diversity, making the country a global hotspot for tropical marine biodiversity.
Protection

Conservation

Primary Threats

  • Industrial logging (including selective logging and associated road building) is a major driver of forest degradation in lowland areas. Logging roads increase access for further forest conversion and hunting, fragment habitats, and elevate sediment runoff into rivers and coastal reefs-particularly in provinces with extensive timber concessions and in areas where governance oversight is limited.
  • Large-scale mining and associated infrastructure can cause significant land clearing, riverine sedimentation, and contamination. Tailings, waste rock, and disturbed catchments elevate turbidity and pollutant loads downstream, affecting freshwater biodiversity and coastal reefs; legacy impacts from older operations and ongoing concerns around tailings management remain prominent in national conservation debates.
  • Habitat loss occurs through a mix of forest clearance for gardens and smallholder agriculture, conversion to cash crops (notably oil palm in some lowland regions), settlement expansion around transport corridors, and clearing linked to extractives. While many forests remain, loss is concentrated in accessible lowlands and coastal plains, which are also critical for endemic species and ecosystem services.
  • New and upgraded roads, ports, and project corridors (often tied to logging, mining, and LNG/extractive developments) open intact forests to encroachment, increase fragmentation, and facilitate illegal timber extraction and wildlife hunting/trade. Remote ecosystems that historically served as refugia become more vulnerable once access improves.
  • Expansion of oil palm and other commercial agriculture in suitable lowland areas converts or fragments forest and alters hydrology. Even where large estates are limited compared to some countries, expansion pressure is locally intense and can displace or simplify habitats that support high endemism, while also increasing sediment and nutrient runoff into waterways.
  • Coastal and reef fisheries face pressure from growing human populations, improved market access, and cash needs. In some areas, intensive harvest of reef fish and invertebrates (including sea cucumbers/trepang and other high-value species) reduces spawning stocks and reef resilience, particularly near towns and accessible reefs.
  • Trade and trafficking affect select taxa (e.g., parrots/cockatoos, reptiles, and other wildlife) for domestic and international markets. Collection pressure is often concentrated near transport nodes and accessible habitats; governance capacity and remoteness complicate monitoring and enforcement.
  • Subsistence hunting is widespread and culturally important, but becomes unsustainable near settlements, roads, and logging camps. Overhunting can depress populations of large birds, marsupials, and other fauna, with knock-on ecological effects (e.g., reduced seed dispersal) in forests already disturbed by extraction.
  • Climate change manifests through coral bleaching and heat stress on reefs, sea-level rise affecting low-lying islands and mangroves, and altered rainfall patterns that can intensify floods/landslides and change river sediment loads. These impacts threaten coastal food security, reef biodiversity within the Coral Triangle, and montane species with limited upslope refuge.
  • Pollution hotspots include sediment and chemical runoff from mining and logging catchments, urban and peri-urban waste near major towns, and localized agricultural runoff. Marine debris and plastics are growing concerns along populated coasts and in bays, affecting mangroves, reefs, and fisheries.
  • Invasive species threaten island and coastal ecosystems, including impacts from rats and other invasive predators on birds and reptiles, and invasive plants that can alter disturbed habitats. Risk is higher on offshore islands and around ports where biosecurity challenges and shipping pathways facilitate introductions.
  • As gardens and settlements expand into forest edges, conflict can rise with crop-raiding wildlife and perceived threats to livelihoods. Retaliatory killing and habitat clearing may follow, especially where communities have limited alternatives for food security and income.
  • Disturbance from resource camps, expanding tourism nodes, and increased boat/vehicle traffic can degrade sensitive sites (nesting beaches, reefs, and river corridors). On reefs, anchor damage and trampling can be locally significant where visitation increases without strong site management.
Visit

Wildlife Tourism

Papua New Guinea (PNG) is a high-biodiversity, high-endemism destination where "wildlife tourism" is often a blend of rainforest birding, reef diving/snorkeling, river and wetland exploration, and community-based nature guiding. Economically, nature travel is smaller than in classic safari countries but is strategically important for local livelihoods (guiding, homestays/eco-lodges, boat transport, porters) and for funding conservation in remote areas. PNG's wildlife tourism history is rooted in expedition-style travel and specialist birdwatching (birds-of-paradise, bowerbirds, cassowaries) and world-class diving (Coral Triangle influence). Accessibility is improving but remains adventure-oriented: most international arrivals route via Port Moresby, then connect by domestic flights to hubs like Mt Hagen (Highlands), Madang, Wewak, Rabaul/Kokopo (New Britain), Alotau (Milne Bay), or Kiunga (for Fly River). Road travel can be slow and weather-affected; many prime wildlife areas are reached by small aircraft plus 4WD, boat, or trekking. Practical expectations: plan extra buffer days for weather/logistics, use reputable local operators, and focus on guided, community-permitted sites for best sightings and safety.

Best Time to Visit

PNG is generally possible year-round, but wildlife viewing is best planned around rainfall, sea conditions, and breeding displays. Below are practical month windows and what to target:

- Jan-Mar: Prime marine season in many areas (clearer water windows vary by coast). Best for reef diving/snorkeling in Milne Bay and New Britain; expect active reef fish, sharks, turtles, and vibrant coral. Lowland rainforest is lush but wetter-good for frogs/insects/forest birding if you can handle rain.
- Apr-Jun: Often one of the most versatile windows-good balance of weather for both rainforest and reefs. Strong for birding (regular dawn display activity for birds-of-paradise in multiple regions) and for mixed land/sea itineraries.
- Jul-Oct: Drier/cooler in many regions and typically the most reliable for trekking, highland birding, and remote river logistics. Great for birds-of-paradise viewing (display leks are most consistently visited at dawn), cassowary/megapode searches, and multi-day hikes.
- Nov-Dec: Seas can still be excellent in some areas; rainforest gets wetter again, which can increase amphibian and insect activity (night walks are rewarding). Build flexibility for rain and occasional travel disruptions.

Targeted "what to see when" tips:
- Birds-of-paradise displays: Most reliable in the drier months (Jul-Oct), but many sites can produce sightings year-round with early starts and local guides.
- Leatherback turtles (where monitored): Nesting seasons vary by beach/site in PNG and can be highly seasonal-check with local conservation groups/eco-lodges for the specific coast and month before booking.
- Reef megafauna (sharks, rays, turtles): Year-round possibilities, with visibility and sea state the main drivers; calmer, clearer periods tend to cluster in the drier season but vary by region.

Top Wildlife Experiences

  • Dawn birds-of-paradise hide session with local trackers (sit-in hides near display trees/lek sites) to watch courtship dances at first light-often the single most iconic PNG wildlife experience.
  • Night rainforest walk for frogs, geckos, stick insects, and bioluminescent fungi, guided by community naturalists; combine with spotlighting for owls and nocturnal marsupials where present.
  • Reef day: snorkeling or diving a coral wall/reef slope in Milne Bay or New Britain to look for reef sharks, turtles, schooling fish, nudibranchs, and macro life-bring an underwater light for crepuscular action.
  • River-and-oxbow wildlife cruise (Fly River region style itineraries) focusing on waterbirds, crocodiles, kingfishers, and riparian forest wildlife; best done as a multi-day journey with local boat crews.
  • Cassowary and megapode tracking day in lowland rainforest edges and coastal forests-quiet, slow walking with frequent listening stops, guided by experienced local spotters.
  • Canopy birding via forest trails and ridge lookouts: target hornbills, kingfishers, fruit-doves, parrots, and mixed-species flocks; plan for repeated early-morning sessions for best activity.
  • Community-led mangrove paddle (kayak/canoe) to find mudskippers, crabs, herons, and kingfishers, plus crocodile-safe interpretation of wetland ecology and traditional resource use.
  • Highlands forest birding circuit with pre-dawn starts: search for bowerbirds, honeyeaters, and endemic montane species; combine with short, steep forest walks for elevation specialists.
  • Sea turtle-focused snorkel and interpretation session with a local conservation initiative (when available): learn nesting ecology and responsible viewing, then snorkel nearby reefs for juvenile turtles and reef life.
  • Pelagic/nearshore boat outing for seabirds and dolphins (where operators run trips): scan for frigatebirds, terns, and occasional cetacean encounters depending on season and sea state.

Safari Types Available

  • Guided walking safaris (rainforest trails, ridge walks, village land birding circuits)
  • Birding hides/blinds (especially for birds-of-paradise and shy forest species)
  • Boat safaris (rivers, wetlands, coastal lagoons; wildlife viewing + photography)
  • Diving and snorkeling safaris (liveaboard-style trips in some regions; day-boat dive safaris)
  • Kayak/canoe safaris (mangroves, calm bays, lagoon edges)
  • Trekking-based wildlife trips (multi-day hikes with camp/homestay logistics)
  • Night safaris/spotlighting walks (amphibians, insects, nocturnal birds/mammals)
  • Community-based wildlife experiences (guided by local landowners; conservation-linked visits)
Fun Facts

Did You Know?

Papua New Guinea is the type locality of the world's smallest known vertebrate: the tiny frog Paedophryne amauensis, described in 2012, with an adult length around 7.7 mm.

It's one of the only places with naturally poisonous birds: species like the hooded pitohui (Pitohui dichrous) and the blue-capped ifrita (Ifrita kowaldi) can carry batrachotoxin in their skin and feathers.

Despite being in the tropics, many "typical" Asian mammals are missing: there are no native monkeys, bears, or big cats-PNG's land mammals are dominated by marsupials (tree kangaroos, cuscuses, bandicoots) plus bats and rodents.

PNG is one of the few places on Earth where you can find egg-laying mammals in the wild: the long-beaked echidnas (genus Zaglossus) occur on New Guinea, alongside Australia as the only natural home of monotremes.

Some of its most iconic animals are 'island giants' in unexpected groups: a pigeon (Goura victoria) that rivals a turkey in size and a tree frog (Litoria infrafrenata) that is the largest of its kind-both evolving on New Guinea rather than on large continents.

Home to the world's largest butterfly: the Queen Alexandra's birdwing (Ornithoptera alexandrae), endemic to Papua New Guinea, with females reaching about 25-28 cm (10-11 in) in wingspan.

Home to the world's largest tree frog: the white-lipped tree frog (Litoria infrafrenata), native to PNG (and nearby Australia), which can reach ~14 cm (5.5 in) in length.

Home to the world's largest pigeon species: the Victoria crowned pigeon (Goura victoria), native to New Guinea (including PNG), weighing up to ~3.5 kg (7.7 lb).

Global stronghold of birds-of-paradise: Papua New Guinea hosts about 38 species-most of the planet's ~43 bird-of-paradise species-making it the world's top country for birds-of-paradise diversity.

Marine-biodiversity hotspot with standout site records: Kimbe Bay (West New Britain) has documented ~900+ reef fish species and ~400+ hard coral species-numbers that rank among the richest single bay-scale reef systems studied in the Indo-Pacific.

Papua New Guinea is a small island nation in Oceania. With about 850 spoken languages, it is one of the most ethnically diverse countries in the world. PNG shares a land border with Indonesia, which owns the western half of the island. Much of the country is dominated by dense tropical rainforests and wetlands, while a large mountain range known as the New Guinea Highlands runs along the entire length of the interior. Along with the rest of the Asian Pacific region, New Guinea is a place of immense biodiversity. A greater concentration of unique species can be found here than almost anywhere else.

The Official National (State) Animals Of Papua New Guinea

The dugong is one of three species of sea cows.

©vkilikov/Shutterstock.com

Papua New Guinea has a few important national symbols, including the dugong and Count Raggi’s bird of paradise.

The dugong is a marine mammal that includes three species of manatees. While they are similar in appearance, the one thing that separates them is their tales – the dugong has a fluked tale and the manatee has a paddle-shaped tale. They were often considered to be the inspiration for the mermaid.

In 1976, the government made them protected animals, although they are still permitted to be hunted to a certain degree as they are thought to have healing properties.

Beautiful bird of paradise sitting on a branch.

Beautiful bird of paradise sitting on a branch.

©Kurit afshen/Shutterstock.com

The Raggiana bird of paradise was made the national emblem and included on the national flag in 1971. Of the 41 species of this bird, Papua New Guinea is home to 39 of them. The males of the species have more brightly colored plumage, while the females have more subdued colors.

Where To Find The Top Wild Animals In Papua New Guinea

Encompassing about 5,500 square miles, Papua New Guinea has around 71 protected areas and national parks. Here are just a few:

  • The Tonda Wildlife Management Area, in the Western Province, is one of the most significant wetlands on the planet and also the largest protected area in the entire country. Amid the 2,200 square miles of swamps, grasslands, Monson forests, and mangrove areas, visitors can find the hare-wallaby, quoll, dunnart, crocodile, birds of paradise, and many other mammals.
  • The Maza protected wildlife area covers more than 700 square miles of marine environments and coral reefs to the east of Tonda. Visitors can find dugongs, sea turtles, and other marine animals here.
  • The Kamiali Wildlife Management Area, located on the Huon Gulf Coast in Morobe Province, spans across 180 square miles of sandy coasts, lakes, coral reefs, rivers, wetlands, and tropical rainforests. Visitors can find a rich array of reef fish, sea turtles, and other rare fauna.
  • Lake Kutubu, located in the Southern Highlands Province, is surrounded by mountains in a rugged depression. It was deemed a wetland of international significance for its unique selection of freshwater fish, including the rainbowfish, the mogurnda, and the grunter.
Types of Blue Fish - Lake Kutubu rainbowfish

Lake Kutubu is home to a variety of fish.

©Vladimir Wrangel/Shutterstock.com

Lake Kutubu is the second-largest lake in Papua New Guinea. Lying east of Kikori and southwest of the provincial capital, the lake has a depth of 230 feet and a width of 2.8 miles. This is a large tropical lake that was derived from volcanic ash. With its great biodiversity and ecological significance, it has been designated a Wildlife Management Area.

The Most Dangerous Animals In Papua New Guinea Today

A hooded pitohui perched on a branch. The body of the bird is dark with an orang/rust cloak.

A Hooded pitohui (Pitohui dichrous) sitting in a tree in the Varirata National Park, Papua New Guinea.

©feathercollector/Shutterstock.com

While Papua New Guinea contains very few large predators (besides the crocodile), it does have several smaller, poisonous animals that pose a danger to people. Of 80 recognized snakes, the country is home to six venomous species. Together they are responsible for about a thousand deaths per year. Interestingly, PNG contains one of the few poisonous birds in the world, the hooded pitohui. It’s believed that the bird derives this poison from something it eats.

  • Coastal Taipan – Sporting a uniform olive or reddish-brown color, the coastal taipan is one of the most dangerous snakes in the world. Venom affects the body by attacking the nervous system and the blood clotting ability. Nearly all cases of untreated bites eventually prove to be fatal.
  • Papuan Black Snake – A member of the same family as the coastal taipan, the black snake can deliver a powerful neurotoxin that causes muscle weakness and paralysis. Although not quite as deadly as its cousin, the venom can be life-threatening if delivered in a large enough dose.
  • Death Adders – Papua New Guinea is home to both smooth-scaled and rough-scaled death adders. These snakes lie in wait and strike their targets very quickly with their dangerous venom.
  • New Guinea Crocodile – Measuring up to 11 feet long, this crocodile is strong, aggressive, and not to be messed with. Fortunately, attacks on humans are relatively rare.

One of the only known toxic birds in the world, the hooded pitohui is found on this island. Batrachotoxin, the same chemical substance found in poisonous frogs, is what makes this little bird so deadly. This toxin binds to nerve cells and prevents them from closing. Touching this bird will cause severe burning and pain to your skin. Eating it is not a good idea. There is no antidote for this poison and if you’ve been infected, it will result in paralysis and death.

Endangered Animals In Papua New Guinea

Sugar glider on a stump / Petaurus breviceps

The Northern glider is closely related to this sugar glider.

©LesPalenik/Shutterstock.com

Papua New Guinea’s diverse fauna has long been under threat from deforestation and hunting. Trees are often cut down for logging or in order to create new grazing grounds or to replace them with highly demanding plantation crops like palm oil. The following is just a small list of the currently endangered species.

  • Giant Bandicoot – This is largely regarded as the largest species of bandicoot in the world. While not much is known about it since it was discovered, this long-nosed, rodent-like marsupial is in danger of becoming extinct.
  • Black-spotted Cuscus – Closely related to the brushtail possums, the cuscus is a marsupial with a long tail and rounded head. It is currently in danger of becoming extinct from hunting and habitat loss.
  • Tree Kangaroos – These arboreal mammals aren’t quite as well-known as their ground-hopping counterpart. In PNG, it lives in the remote mountainous forests of the interior. Unfortunately, this also makes it highly vulnerable to deforestation and overhunting. Three species of this genus are currently endangered: Matschie’s tree kangaroo, Goodfellow’s tree kangaroo, and the tenkile.
  • Northern Glider – Closely related to the more well-known sugar glider, this is a unique species of marsupial with the ability to glide through the air from high treetops by using their specialized skin flaps, which extend between the forelegs and the hind legs. It is currently in danger of becoming extinct because of its very limited range.
  • New Guinea Big-eared Bat – Little is known about these small-bodied, big-eared bats, but they are currently endangered from habitat loss.

The Northern glider was discovered in the Torricelli Mountains of north-western Papua New Guinea in 1981. They are primarily found in tropical, moist rainforests. Adults average 10 inches in length and weigh around 9.8 ounces. Fruit is the main staple of their diets. They are listed as critically endangered due to human encroachment and hunting.

The Rarest Animals In Papua New Guinea

Golden Masked Owl sitting on branch

Golden Masked Owl sitting on branch

©Owen Derrick Photography/Shutterstock.com

The golden masked owl is one of the rarest animals in Papua New Guinea. Also known as the Bismark owl, Bismark masked owl, New Britain barn owl, and the New Britain masked owl. Its habitat is located off the coast of Papua New Guinea on the island of New Britain and because it is very difficult to spot, it has not been well studied. While currently not endangered, they are listed as vulnerable as the forests where they reside are listed as endangered. Habitat loss will have an effect on the current population, which numbers between 2500 to 9999.

The Largest Animals In Papua New Guinea

The Tiger Quoll (Dasyurus maculatus) is similar to the rare bronze quoll found on the island.

©Leonard G – Public Domain

Papua New Guinea is not known for hosting animals of great sizes. The largest animal found on the island, first discovered in Southern New Guinea in 1979, is the bronze quoll. It is considered the largest omnivorous mammal, while the tree kangaroo is considered the largest herbivore. The bronze quoll, which is a nocturnal predatory species, is listed as a threatened species. The bronze quoll generally lives on average between 3 to 5 years.

The tree-kangaroo is an herbivore, with the rainforest as its habitat. Weighing up to 32 pounds and measuring about 30 inches, which doesn’t include their almost 34-inch tails, this marsupial is the only known kangaroo to live in the trees. There are fewer than 2,500 left in their native habitat due to illegal hunting for trade and food. It is hard to determine their age because they are difficult to study in the wild but it is believed that they have a lifespan of 15 to 20 years.

Animals Found in Papua New Guinea

190 species documented in our encyclopedia

Amethystine Python (Scrub Python) Angelfish Arafura File Snake Archerfish Armyworm Australian Firehawk Bamboo Shark Bandicoot Barn Swallow Barracuda Barramundi Fish Bass Bat Bee-Eater Bigfin Reef Squid Bird of Paradise Bismarck Ringed Python Blacktip Reef Shark Blacktip Shark  Blind Snake Blue Tang Blue-Ringed Octopus Boas Boiga Booby Box Jellyfish Boxfish Brahminy Blindsnake Brown Snake Brown Tree Snake Butterfly Fish Cane Spider Carpenter Ant Carpet Python Cassowary Cat Snake Catfish Christmas Beetle Chromodoris Willani Cicada Clock Spider Coastal Taipan Cobia Fish Cockatoo Cockroach Coconut Crab Comb-crested Jacana Common Spotted Cuscus Common Spotted Cuscus Cone Snail Coral Corella Cosmic Caterpillar Crane Crayfish Crocodile Crocodile Monitor Crocodylomorph Crow Cuckoo Disco Clam Dragon Eel Duck Dugong Dung Beetle Eagle Echidna Eclectus Parrot Eel catfish Egret Emerald Tree Monitor Emperor Angelfish Fairy-Wren Fiddler Crab Firefly Flycatcher Freshwater Eel Frigatebird Frilled Lizard Fritillary Butterfly Frog Frog Fruit Bat Gecko Gecko Ghost Crab Giant Clam Giant Trevally Golden Masked Owl Goose Great Egret Great Hammerhead Shark Green Tree Python Grey Reef Shark Grouper Fish Hairy Frogfish Hercules Moth Hermit Crab Hornbill Horned Beetle Huntsman Spider Ibis Jacana Jumping Spider Junglefowl Katydid Kestrel King Quail Kingfisher Kissing Bugs Ladyfish Lawnmower Blenny Leafcutter Bee Lionfish Lizard Lorikeet Marine Toad Milkfish Millipede Mojarra Monitor Lizard Mourning Gecko Mouse Mudskipper Nautilus Needlefish Neptune Grouper Nicobar pigeon Nightjar Olive Sea Snake Osprey Owlfly (Ascalaphidae) Pademelon Parrot Parrotfish Pesquet's Parrot (Dracula Parrot) Pig-Nosed Turtle Pigeon Polka Dot Stingray Pond Skater Possum Powderpost Beetle Praying Mantis Python Quail Quoll Rat Rhino Beetle Ribbon Eel River Turtle Rodents Sandpiper Sawfish Scorpion Fish Sea Eagle Sea Roach Sea Snake Sequined Spider Shrimp Skink Lizard Snowflake Eel Spanish Mackerel Sparrow Spitting Cobra Spotted Garden Eel Squirrelfish Stag Beetle Stick Insect Stonefish Strawberry Hermit Crab Striped Rocket Frog Sugar Glider Surgeonfish Swallow Swallowtail Butterfly Swallowtail Caterpillar Tailless Whip Scorpion Taipan Tang Tarantula Tarpon Termite Thrush Tree Snake Triggerfish Turtles Ulysses Butterfly Vinegaroon Viper Boa Wallaby Yabby Yellow Crazy Ant Zebra Shark

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