Conservation

Author: Rod

  • What are the most effective methods to control invasive species in Australia

    Controlling invasive species in Australia involves a combination of methods tailored to the specific species and the environment they affect. Here are the most effective methods used:

    1. Biological Control: This involves using natural predators, parasites, or diseases to control invasive species populations. Examples include the use of myxomatosis and rabbit calicivirus to control rabbit populations, and Cactoblastis cactorum to manage prickly pear infestations. Biological control is most effective when used in combination with other methods[1].
    2. Chemical Control: Herbicides are commonly used to manage invasive plant species, while poisons like 1080 are used for controlling invasive animals such as feral pigs, rabbits, and foxes. However, chemical control must be carefully managed to avoid harming non-target species and ecosystems[1][4].
    3. Physical Control: This includes manual removal of invasive plants, trapping of animals, and exclusion fencing to prevent access to sensitive areas. Trapping is often used for feral pigs and goats but requires regular monitoring[1][2].
    4. Shooting: Aerial and ground shooting are employed for controlling larger invasive animals like feral pigs, goats, and horses. Aerial shooting from helicopters is particularly effective in remote or rugged terrains[1][3].
    5. Exclusion Fencing: Fencing is used to protect specific areas from invasive species by preventing their entry. This method is particularly useful for protecting high-value agricultural or conservation areas[2][4].
    6. Integrated Management: Combining multiple control methods increases effectiveness. For example, initial population reductions through baiting or shooting can be followed by trapping and exclusion fencing to maintain low population levels[3][4].
    7. Prevention and Early Intervention: Preventing new invasions through biosecurity measures and early detection is crucial. This includes monitoring potential threats and implementing rapid response strategies when new invasions are detected[5].

    These methods are part of an integrated approach that involves coordination among government agencies, landowners, and local communities to effectively manage invasive species across landscapes.

    Sources
    [1] [PDF] Invasive Species in Australia https://www.agriculture.gov.au/sites/default/files/documents/invasive.pdf
    [2] Invasive Species – Background Information – NARvis https://narvis.com.au/the-region/invasive-species-background/
    [3] Feral pig control https://www.dpi.nsw.gov.au/biosecurity/vertebrate-pests/pest-animals-in-nsw/feral-pigs/feral-pig-control
    [4] Integrated feral pig control https://agriculture.vic.gov.au/biosecurity/pest-animals/invasive-animal-management/integrated-feral-pig-control
    [5] [PDF] Protect Australia from deadly invasive species | Treasury.gov.au https://treasury.gov.au/sites/default/files/2019-03/invasive_species_council.pdf
    [6] Feral pig management https://www.lls.nsw.gov.au/help-and-advice/pest-control/vertebrate-pest-animals/feral-pigs
    [7] Invasive Species – NSW State of the Environment https://www.soe.epa.nsw.gov.au/all-themes/biodiversity/invasive-species
    [8] Fact sheet https://www.lls.nsw.gov.au/__data/assets/pdf_file/0005/1285268/Exclusion-fencing-fact-sheet-FINAL.pdf

  • Habitat protection in Australia is a critical component of conservation efforts aimed at preserving the country’s unique biodiversity.

    Here are some key aspects and challenges associated with habitat protection in Australia:

    Current State of Habitat Protection

    • Protected Areas: Approximately 19.7% of Australia’s land is designated as protected areas, which include national, state, and regional parks and reserves, conservation covenants on private land, and Indigenous protected areas[3]. These areas are managed to conserve biodiversity and protect cultural values.
    • Marine Protection: Nearly 37% of Australia’s marine environment is under some form of protection. However, only a quarter of these areas are fully protected, limiting the effectiveness of conservation efforts[3].

    Challenges in Habitat Protection

    • Ineffective Laws: A report by the Environmental Defenders Office (EDO) and WWF-Australia highlights that national and state habitat protection laws are often ineffective and underutilized. Barriers such as bureaucratic processes, lack of mandatory critical habitat identification, and inadequate incentives for private land conservation contribute to these challenges[2].
    • Invasive Species: Invasive species pose a significant threat to native habitats by altering ecosystems and outcompeting native species. The introduction and spread of invasive plants and animals have been exacerbated by environmental disturbances like habitat fragmentation[1][4].

    Efforts to Improve Habitat Protection

    • Private Land Conservation: Australia has one of the largest networks of Privately Protected Areas (PPAs), which play a crucial role in complementing government efforts to conserve biodiversity. These areas protect a significant proportion of threatened species, particularly those not found in public reserves[3].
    • Legislative Improvements: There is a need for stronger national environment laws to improve the identification, protection, and management of critical habitats for threatened species. This includes better implementation of existing legal frameworks and incentives for private landholders to engage in conservation efforts[2].

    Overall, while significant portions of Australia’s land and marine environments are under some form of protection, challenges remain in effectively managing these areas to ensure the long-term survival of threatened species and ecosystems.

    Sources
    [1] Chapter – Invasive species https://www.abs.gov.au/ausstats/[email protected]/94713ad445ff1425ca25682000192af2/0542a2bdf511788bca256bdc00122411!OpenDocument
    [2] Australia’s habitat protection laws ‘ineffective, woefully underused … https://www.edo.org.au/2024/05/14/australias-habitat-protection-laws-ineffective-woefully-underused-new-report-finds/
    [3] Habitat Protection Facts – The Nature Conservancy Australia https://www.natureaustralia.org.au/what-we-do/our-insights/perspectives/habitat-protection-facts/
    [4] A https://www.agriculture.gov.au/sites/default/files/documents/invasive.pdf
    [5] An inventory of threats https://www.nespthreatenedspecies.edu.au/media/sphgvm15/4-4-5-threats-to-threatened-species-findings-factsheet.pdf
    [6] Protecting Australia’s Precious Nature by 2030 Is Possible https://www.pewtrusts.org/en/research-and-analysis/articles/2024/02/21/protecting-australias-precious-nature-by-2030-is-possible
    [7] Threatened Species https://fnpw.org.au/news/latest-news/australian-threatened-species/
    [8] Feral pig control https://www.dpi.nsw.gov.au/biosecurity/vertebrate-pests/pest-animals-in-nsw/feral-pigs/feral-pig-control

  • Exclusion fences are an effective non-lethal method for managing feral pig populations in Australia. Here are the main ways they help:

    1. Preventing Access to High-Value Areas: Exclusion fencing is used to protect small, high-value areas such as horticultural crops, intensive livestock operations, and conservation sites. By preventing feral pigs from accessing these areas, exclusion fencing helps mitigate the economic and environmental impacts caused by these animals[1][2].
    2. Reducing Disease Transmission: Exclusion fences are particularly useful in managing the spread of diseases like African Swine Fever (ASF) by reducing contact between domestic and feral pig populations. This is crucial for biosecurity in livestock production settings[2].
    3. Protecting Sensitive Environmental Areas: Fences can be used to safeguard ecologically sensitive areas, such as mound springs and freshwater lagoons, from the destructive activities of feral pigs. This helps preserve biodiversity and maintain the integrity of these habitats[3].
    4. Long-Term Asset Protection: While exclusion fencing requires a significant initial investment, it offers long-term protection for valuable assets by consistently preventing feral pig incursions over many years[1]. This makes it a cost-effective solution in areas where the benefits outweigh the costs.

    Overall, exclusion fencing serves as a targeted measure to protect specific areas from feral pig damage, complementing broader population control strategies like baiting and shooting.

    Sources
    [1] [PDF] Control options in feral pigs: Exclusion fencing – Local Land Services https://www.lls.nsw.gov.au/__data/assets/pdf_file/0005/1285268/Exclusion-fencing-fact-sheet-FINAL.pdf
    [2] Feral pig management in Australia: implications for disease control https://pmc.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/articles/PMC9796028/
    [3] Exclusion fencing – PestSmart https://pestsmart.org.au/toolkit-resource/exclusion-fencing/
    [4] Feral pig control https://www.dpi.nsw.gov.au/biosecurity/vertebrate-pests/pest-animals-in-nsw/feral-pigs/feral-pig-control
    [5] Feral pig management – Local Land Services – NSW Government https://www.lls.nsw.gov.au/help-and-advice/pest-control/vertebrate-pest-animals/feral-pigs
    [6] National Code of Practice for the humane control of feral pigs https://pestsmart.org.au/toolkit-resource/code-of-practice-feral-pigs/
    [7] Queensland https://feralpigs.com.au/qld/
    [8] Integrated feral pig control | Invasive animal management | Biosecurity https://agriculture.vic.gov.au/biosecurity/pest-animals/invasive-animal-management/integrated-feral-pig-control

  • The control of feral pigs in Australia involves a combination of methods to effectively manage and reduce their populations. Here are the main methods used:

    1. Baiting: This is considered one of the most effective and cost-efficient methods for controlling feral pig populations. The use of Sodium fluoroacetate (1080) is common, as it is highly toxic to pigs but less so to native wildlife. Baiting programs often involve pre-feeding to attract pigs and ensure effective uptake of the poison[1][2][3].
    2. Aerial Shooting: Conducted from helicopters, aerial shooting is a primary control method that can quickly reduce large populations of feral pigs, especially in remote or difficult-to-access areas. It is typically organized by government agencies and is effective when large numbers of pigs can be targeted simultaneously[1][2].
    3. Ground Shooting: This method is used as a secondary control measure, often following initial population reductions achieved through baiting or aerial shooting. Ground shooting can be conducted by landholders or professional shooters and is often used in conjunction with dogs to locate pigs[2][3].
    4. Trapping: Trapping is an effective technique for capturing feral pigs, particularly in areas where other methods are impractical. Traps need to be checked regularly, and this method can be labor-intensive but allows for precise control over pig populations without affecting non-target species[1][3][5].
    5. Exclusion Fencing: This preventative measure involves installing pig-proof fences around valuable assets or conservation areas to prevent access by feral pigs. While effective for protecting specific areas, it requires regular maintenance to ensure its efficacy[1][4].

    These methods are often used in combination as part of an integrated management approach to control feral pig populations effectively. Collaboration among landholders and coordinated efforts across landscapes enhance the success of these control programs[3][4].

    Sources
    [1] Feral pig management – Local Land Services – NSW Government https://www.lls.nsw.gov.au/help-and-advice/pest-control/vertebrate-pest-animals/feral-pigs
    [2] Feral pig control – NSW Department of Primary Industries https://www.dpi.nsw.gov.au/biosecurity/vertebrate-pests/pest-animals-in-nsw/feral-pigs/feral-pig-control
    [3] Integrated feral pig control | Invasive animal management | Biosecurity https://agriculture.vic.gov.au/biosecurity/pest-animals/invasive-animal-management/integrated-feral-pig-control
    [4] National Code of Practice for the humane control of feral pigs https://pestsmart.org.au/toolkit-resource/code-of-practice-feral-pigs/
    [5] Feral pig management in Australia: implications for disease control https://pmc.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/articles/PMC9796028/
    [6] A https://www.agriculture.gov.au/sites/default/files/documents/invasive.pdf
    [7] QLD – National Feral Pig Action Plan https://feralpigs.com.au/qld/
    [8] Australia’s silent invaders https://www.science.org.au/curious/earth-environment/invasive-species

  • The most common invasive species in Australia, which have significant impacts on native wildlife and ecosystems, include:

    1. European Rabbit: Rabbits are the most destructive invasive species in Australia, affecting over 300 threatened species. They damage native vegetation by feeding on seedlings, competing with native herbivores for food, and altering soil composition with their droppings[1][2].
    2. Feral Cats: Feral cats are responsible for the decline of many small to medium-sized native mammals and birds. They predate on a wide range of species and are implicated in the extinction of several native animals[1][3].
    3. Feral Pigs: These animals destroy habitats by rooting up vegetation and creating wallows, which affects about 150 threatened species. They also consume small mammals and reptiles[1][2].
    4. Red Foxes: Foxes prey on small mammals, birds, and reptiles, contributing to the decline of numerous native species[1][3].
    5. Phytophthora cinnamomi (Root Rot Fungus): This plant disease affects more than 200 threatened plant species by causing dieback in a variety of plants, shrubs, and trees[1][5].
    6. Feral Goats: Goats compete with native herbivores for food and can cause significant habitat degradation[1][2].
    7. Lantana and Blackberry (Weeds): These invasive plants outcompete native vegetation, altering habitats and threatening biodiversity[1][2].
    8. Black Rats: These rodents are known to impact native bird populations by preying on eggs and young birds[1].
    9. Feral Cattle: They trample vegetation and can degrade habitats, impacting native species[1].

    These invasive species pose a significant threat to Australia’s biodiversity by competing with native species for resources, predating on them, or altering their habitats. Efforts to control these invasive species are crucial for the protection of Australia’s unique ecosystems.

    Sources
    [1] Australia’s 10 worst invasive species – The University of Queensland https://www.uq.edu.au/news/article/2019/02/australia%E2%80%99s-10-worst-invasive-species
    [2] [PDF] Australia’s 10 Worst Invasive Species https://cdn.prod.website-files.com/5975d67457047a04aaa28a39/5dfc3a10305f51d146daacce_top%20ten%20threatening%20processes%20fg%20edit.pdf
    [3] Invasive Species https://www.soe.epa.nsw.gov.au/all-themes/biodiversity/invasive-species
    [4] What are invasive species? https://invasives.org.au/our-work/invasive-species/
    [5] An inventory of threats https://www.nespthreatenedspecies.edu.au/media/sphgvm15/4-4-5-threats-to-threatened-species-findings-factsheet.pdf
    [6] [PDF] Invasive Species in Australia https://www.agriculture.gov.au/sites/default/files/documents/invasive.pdf
    [7] Endangered Animals and Other Threatened Species | The Nature Conservancy Australia https://www.natureaustralia.org.au/what-we-do/our-priorities/wildlife/wildlife-stories/australias-endangered-animals/endangered-animals-and-other-threatened-species/
    [8] Australian endangered species list – Australian Geographic https://www.australiangeographic.com.au/topics/science-environment/2014/06/australian-endangered-species-list/

  • Invasive species have a significant and detrimental impact on Australia’s native wildlife. Here are the primary ways they affect native ecosystems:

    1. Predation and Extinction: Invasive predators such as feral cats and foxes have been responsible for the decline and extinction of many small native mammals and birds. Feral cats, for instance, are a major factor in the extinction of 30 Australian native mammal species since European settlement[3][5].
    2. Competition for Resources: Invasive species often outcompete native animals for food and habitat. For example, European rabbits consume large amounts of vegetation, depriving native herbivores of food sources[2]. Similarly, invasive fish like carp dominate aquatic ecosystems, outcompeting native fish species[5].
    3. Habitat Degradation: Invasive herbivores such as rabbits, goats, and deer degrade habitats by overgrazing and trampling vegetation. This leads to soil erosion and a decline in vegetation diversity, which adversely affects the entire ecosystem[5].
    4. Disease Transmission: Some invasive species carry diseases that can spread to native wildlife, livestock, and even humans. For example, feral cats can transmit diseases to other animals[2].
    5. Ecosystem Alteration: Invasive plants can alter habitats by forming dense infestations that displace native flora. This can lead to reduced biodiversity and changes in ecosystem structure[3]. For instance, the yellow crazy ant has significantly altered the ecosystem on Christmas Island by reducing native crab populations[3].
    6. Economic Impact: The presence of invasive species also has economic repercussions, costing Australia billions in management and control efforts, as well as losses in agriculture and tourism[3].

    Overall, invasive species pose one of the most significant threats to Australia’s biodiversity by disrupting ecological balance, leading to the decline or extinction of native species.

    Sources
    [1] birds and mammals threatened by invasive species https://www.abs.gov.au/ausstats/[email protected]/94713ad445ff1425ca25682000192af2/0542a2bdf511788bca256bdc00122411!OpenDocument
    [2] How Do Invasive Species In Australia Affect The Ecosystem? https://www.eastcoastmulching.com.au/invasive-species-in-australia/
    [3] Australia’s silent invaders – Curious – Australian Academy of Science https://www.science.org.au/curious/earth-environment/invasive-species
    [4] Threatened Species https://fnpw.org.au/news/latest-news/australian-threatened-species/
    [5] Invasive Species – NSW State of the Environment https://www.soe.epa.nsw.gov.au/all-themes/biodiversity/invasive-species
    [6] A strategy for dealing with invasive species in Australia https://invasives.org.au/our-work/feral-animals/strategy-invasive-species-australia/
    [7] An inventory of threats https://www.nespthreatenedspecies.edu.au/media/sphgvm15/4-4-5-threats-to-threatened-species-findings-factsheet.pdf
    [8] 10 of the Most Endangered Species in Australia in 2024 | Earth.Org https://earth.org/endangered-species-in-australia/

  • The main threats to endangered species in Australia are multifaceted and include several key factors:

    1. Invasive Species: Non-native species are the leading threat, impacting 82% of all threatened species in Australia. These invasive species disrupt ecosystems by displacing and competing with native species for resources[1][3]. Examples include cats and foxes, which have been particularly detrimental to native wildlife[2].
    2. Habitat Loss and Degradation: This is a significant threat affecting 74% of listed species. Habitat loss occurs due to land clearing for agriculture, urban development, and infrastructure projects. This destruction leads to fragmentation and degradation of natural habitats, making it difficult for species to survive and reproduce[1][3][4].
    3. Agricultural Activities: Affecting 57% of threatened species, agricultural practices such as cropping, livestock production, and timber plantations contribute to habitat destruction and modification[3].
    4. Climate Change: Changing climate patterns pose a serious threat by altering habitats and food sources, making it difficult for many species to adapt[1].
    5. Altered Fire Regimes: Changes in natural fire patterns can destroy habitats and prevent the regeneration of plant species, further endangering the animals that depend on these ecosystems[3][5].

    These threats are compounded by Australia’s unique biodiversity and geographic isolation, which make its ecosystems particularly vulnerable to changes[3]. Addressing these threats requires comprehensive conservation strategies and stronger environmental protections to prevent further declines in biodiversity.

    Sources
    [1] Threatened Species – Foundation for National Parks & Wildlife https://fnpw.org.au/news/latest-news/australian-threatened-species/
    [2] 10 of the Most Endangered Species in Australia in 2024 | Earth.Org https://earth.org/endangered-species-in-australia/
    [3] [PDF] 4-4-5-threats-to-threatened-species-findings-factsheet.pdf https://www.nespthreatenedspecies.edu.au/media/sphgvm15/4-4-5-threats-to-threatened-species-findings-factsheet.pdf
    [4] Record number of species added to threatened list in 2023 https://www.acf.org.au/record-number-of-species-added-to-threatened-list-in-2023
    [5] Threatened Species | NSW State of the Environment https://www.soe.epa.nsw.gov.au/all-themes/biodiversity/threatened-species
    [6] 10 of the most endangered animals in Australia https://www.ifaw.org/au/journal/10-most-endangered-animals-australia
    [7] Australia’s Endangered Animals – The Nature Conservancy Australia https://www.natureaustralia.org.au/what-we-do/our-priorities/wildlife/wildlife-stories/australias-endangered-animals/
    [8] Wilderness Society | 10 endangered Australian animals in need of… https://www.wilderness.org.au/protecting-nature/endangered-animals-and-plants/10-endangered-australian-animals

  • Endangered Species in Australia

    Australia is home to a diverse range of unique wildlife, but many species are facing the threat of extinction due to various factors such as habitat destruction, climate change, and the introduction of non-native predators. Here is an overview of the current state of endangered species in Australia:

    Critically Endangered Species

    According to the IUCN Red List, Australia has 86 animal species that are considered Critically Endangered. These include:

    • Mammals: 10 species, including the northern hairy-nosed wombat and Leadbeater’s possum.
    • Birds: 4 species, such as the swift parrot.
    • Fishes: 13 species.
    • Reptiles: 7 species.
    • Amphibians: 15 species.
    • Arthropods: 37 species[1].

    The Environment Protection and Biodiversity Conservation Act (EPBC) also lists several Critically Endangered species, although the lists do not exactly match those of the IUCN[1].

    Recent Additions to the Threatened List

    In 2023, a record number of 144 animals, plants, and ecological communities were added to Australia’s threatened species list. This surge highlights ongoing environmental challenges, including habitat destruction primarily due to agriculture and other human activities[2].

    Notable Endangered Species

    1. Koalas: Once abundant, koala populations have drastically declined due to habitat loss from land clearing and bushfires[4].
    2. Tasmanian Devils: Threatened by a contagious cancer known as devil facial tumor disease[3].
    3. Northern Hairy-nosed Wombats: With only about 315 individuals remaining, they are critically endangered[3].
    4. Swift Parrots: Facing threats from habitat destruction and predation by invasive species[5].
    5. Hawksbill Turtles: Critically endangered due to illegal wildlife trade and habitat loss[3].

    Conservation Efforts

    Efforts are being made to protect these endangered species through various conservation programs. For instance, fencing predator-free areas for the Kangaroo Island dunnart and other species has been implemented to aid recovery after devastating bushfires[5]. Additionally, organizations like IFAW work closely with local groups to rescue and rehabilitate injured wildlife such as turtles and parrots[3].

    Despite these efforts, significant challenges remain in addressing the root causes of endangerment, such as habitat destruction and climate change. Conservationists urge stronger environmental laws and more proactive measures to prevent further declines in Australia’s unique wildlife populations[2][4].

    Sources
    [1] Australian endangered species list https://www.australiangeographic.com.au/topics/science-environment/2014/06/australian-endangered-species-list/
    [2] Record number of species added to threatened list in 2023 https://www.acf.org.au/record-number-of-species-added-to-threatened-list-in-2023
    [3] 10 of the most endangered animals in Australia https://www.ifaw.org/au/journal/10-most-endangered-animals-australia
    [4] 10 of the Most Endangered Species in Australia in 2024 | Earth.Org https://earth.org/endangered-species-in-australia/
    [5] 10 endangered Australian animals in need of… – Wilderness Society https://www.wilderness.org.au/protecting-nature/endangered-animals-and-plants/10-endangered-australian-animals
    [6] Endangered Animals and Other Threatened Species https://www.natureaustralia.org.au/what-we-do/our-priorities/wildlife/wildlife-stories/australias-endangered-animals/endangered-animals-and-other-threatened-species/
    [7] Species – WWF-Australia https://wwf.org.au/what-we-do/species/