Perth Zoo

This weekend was pretty low-key as I came down with a bit of a cold. By far the most exciting (and active) thing I did all weekend was go to the zoo today. The zoo was divided into three sections – Australian Walkabout, Asian Rainforest, and African Savannah. One of the first things we saw was a reticulated python (don’t worry mom I decided not to put up the photo of it cause I knew you would cry :) ). These snakes can grow up to 10m (33 feet!). Later on in the Australian part was Simon – the saltwater croc. 

Apparently, saltwater crocs can grow up to 7 meters (over 21 feet) and can weigh up to 1,000 Kg (about 2200 pounds).

 Pretty scary stuff. On a cuter note, were the Little Penguins. As the name suggests, these are the smallest type of penguin and are native to Australia. This little guy appeared to be sleeping but had his foot raised – almost as if he was dancing.

 Another highlight was the orangutans. They were pretty fascinating as their faces were so human-like. Although they appeared to be a little sad, it was pretty incredible when they would look at you.

           Does anyone else see a slight resemblance to Vigo Mortenson above?

 Very piercing – I find it hard to look away from the eyes in some of these pictures.

 Unlike the Sydney Zoo, and to my disappointment, there were no sections were you could play with the animals. I did get some nice shots of a most active little Koala. Seeing him climb up a tree set the record for the most movement by one of these little guys so far. Him being awake was impressive enough! 

Among the other interesting animals I saw were:

Meerkats

Cheetahs

Sun Bear Catching a Fish

 Otters

and naturally ... some Kangaroos

Pretty wild to think that I will be starting my third week of classes and have been in Australia for a month already. Also if anyone thinks that one photo might look better with a border, or as a black and white, or in a collage - feel free to let me know and I will try it out! Thanks all for following along. 

Orientation and Thoughts So Far

The day after we arrived to orientation we went into Sydney to go to the Taronga Zoo and go on a walking tour of Sydney. The zoo was awesome, got to play with some kangaroos and saw this cool bird show.

Also, I decided I’m going to try and get a Koala for a pet because they are insanely cute.

The parts of Sydney we saw were really pretty. We went to the Rocks, which is supposed to be where Westerners first landed in Sydney, possibly Australia? (Definitely was not zoning out when they were explaining it to us.) It definitely had a British feel to it – narrow cobble stone streets. Also, we got to see the iconic Opera house. 

Me in front of the Opera House

Me and the fellow Perthies!

Was pretty amused by this poster featuring a crazy looking John C. Reilly doing shadow puppet shows.

Later, we went to the “oldest pub” in Sydney (feel like every pub says they are the oldest) and met some drunk Scottish guy who bought everyone drinks and sang Frank Sinatra to us. He kept telling jokes where the punch line went over everyone’s head. Hopped on the ferry back to the zoo and got back on the bus to return to the orientation site.

I’m sure this will probably change once I get to Perth and have to actually get settled in, but I think it’s great that despite being so far away, Australia does not seem intimidating (so far). The people are really friendly and just so relaxed. Can't help but feel relaxed around them. My student advisor, Vicki, is insanely friendly and is making the transition very smooth.  Of course, the number of things that will bite me, scratch me, sting me, eat me, or burn me (which was discussed in a PowerPoint slide, followed by a slide saying, “But have fun!”) definitely qualifies as a bit intimidating. 

Off for now! Boarding plane to Perth soon, but will keep you all updated! Thanks for all the comments and for following!