Mount Arapiles-Tooan State Park

The Mount Arapiles-Tooan State Park is a state park in the Wimmera plains of western Victoria, Australia. It encompasses Mount Arapiles, Mitre Rock, and the Tooan block. The park covers an area of and is valuable for nature conservation, with approximately 14% of the State's flora species represented in the Mount Arapiles area.The major landmarks in the park are: Mount Arapiles; a prominent rock formation that is a popular rock climbing destination. Mitre Rock; a small outcrop of rock beside Lake Mitre that is also not far from Mount Arapiles. Tooan block; an area containing the remnants of woodlands that have elsewhere been largely cleared for agriculture. The park is managed by Parks Victoria.WildlifeFloraArapiles and its immediate vicinity are home to approximately 14% of the State's flora species, with wildflowers being particularly prominent in spring.FaunaThe shingleback lizard (also known as the stumpytail) is commonly seen in the park during spring, summer and autumn. This slow moving and sleepy reptile feeds on insects, flowers and fruit and is quite harmless to humans.There are many kangaroos inhabiting the bush around Arapiles. In order to preserve their habitat, many intermediate tracks have been closed to allow regrowth of the foliage. Now only the main tracks are used, especially close to the campgrounds.The peregrine falcon, found worldwide, can often be seen around Mount Arapiles. The local population has suffered heavily from the effects of insecticides. It is considered threatened in Victoria as a result of this and is fully protected like all other plants and animals in the park. Occasionally, a pair of falcons will nest at Arapiles, and climbers usually notify the park ranger (and each other) should they come close to climbing areas.