Researchers from ECU are monitoring sites south east of Narrogin in an effort to understand the effectiveness of restoration efforts over the past 20 years.
“WABSI is assisting with science initiatives that can help restore biodiversity in agricultural landscapes and this project can help us better understand if such long term restoration is able to provide suitable habitat for our native fauna,” said Dr Guy Boggs, Director of Restoration ex-situ Conservation at WABSI and Chair of the project’s Steering Committee.
Wallabies, woylies, possums and bandicoots are just some of the species being surveyed with tools such as camera traps. The study will identify specific attributes of habitat that help to support native fauna and will monitor birds, mammals, reptiles and amphibians using this habitat. This will include surveying ecological corridors that were restored more than 20 years ago and the remnant vegetation patches they connect.
Initial results from the surveys have found both native and feral animals are using the corridors, and key species such as the Koomal, a sub-species of the common brushtail possum, (Trichosurus vulpecula hypoleucus) and Black Gloved Wallaby (Macropus Irma) still present in the remnant vegetation patches. The team will complete monitoring and data analysis over the coming months.
Project partners also include the Department of Biodiversity, Conservation and Attractions, Greening Australia, BioMonitoring International and Dumbleyung Landcare.
The Dongolocking project is partially funded through Edith Cowan University and the South West Catchments Council, through funding from the Australia Government’s National Landcare Programme.