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The whale shark, the world's largest living fish, is a common sight in Australia's Ningaloo Coast—which has the world's largest population of this unique animal. When you choose a locum assignment in the friendly country, don't miss the chance to explore the wildlife at National Geographic's top adventure destination for 2012.
The UNESCO World Heritage Site in the western region of the nation is one of the largest fringing reefs in the world, lying close enough to the shore that kayakers can easily explore it and snorkelers can safely swim out to it. Stretching just over 180 miles, the Ningaloo Marine Park extends beyond 10 nautical miles seaward and encompasses about 3,100 square miles of ocean. So what makes this reef so exceptional, when Australia is filled with treasured areas of marine life?
Aside from the phenomenal whale sharks—which are actually gentle giants that mainly prey on small fish—over 500 species of fish, 300 species of coral and 600 species of mollusk make up the reef's ecosystem. The opportunities to explore are greater than many other regions in Australia. Support the World Heritage Site and visit it upon arrival in the country. It won't be your last time—guaranteed.