Wednesday, 28 March 2012

Kimberley Native Wildlife Under Threat


Photo: Gouldian Finch

According to National Geographic, Western Austrlalia’s Kimberley region could lose 45 native wildlife species in the next 20 years. A CSIRO led study published the findings, stating that native animals like the Golden Bandicoot, Ilangnalya and Burbridge's Rock Weasel may become extinct, if their last remaining habitat (the Kimberley) is not secured.

Feral cats, fire and foreign herbivores all pose a threat to Australian native animals in the Kimberley, says the Priority Threat Management to Protect Kimberley Wildlife report. The report, commissioned by The Wilderness Society, outlined suggested strategies as to how money can be most effectively spent to protect Kimberley wildlife.

Currently, 20 million dollars per year is devoted to conservation of wildlife in the Kimberley region, which is home to the Gouldian Finch, an colourful, endangered bird species, sought after by many birdwatchers.

For more information, download the Priority Threat Management to Protect Kimberley Wildlife report.

See the Kimberley at its best with a Coates Wildlife Tours naturalist-guided Kimberley tour.

Do you think enough is being done to conserve native wildlife in the Kimberley

What action would you like to see to further preserve wildlife habitats in the region? 

Would you like to see more or less government money spent on this issue?