Title of project: The effects of a predator control program on dispersal of the endangered mountain pygmy-possum in the Bogong High Plains

Client: Victorian Department of Sustainability and Environment

Project Outline: The aim of this project was to examine whether migration between mountain pygmy-possum populations on the Bogong High Plains was affected by a predator control program (fox baiting). Although male and juvenile pygmy-possums are known to travel lengthy distances per night, populations were found to be highly isolated based on genetic data. Therefore, a predator control program was instigated in an attempt to increase migration between populations. Three dispersal events were detected by mark-recapture events, however, two of these were found to be the result of incorrect identification based on genetic markers. No significant change in migration between populations was revealed in the short-term (2 years). Continuation of the predator control program and long-term monitoring of the mountain pygmy-possum will continue to assess the impacts feral predators have on their migration.

Title of project: The population genetics of eastern barred bandicoots in Tasmania

Client: Tasmanian Department of Primary Industries and Water

Project Outline: Eastern barred bandicoots are a small marsupial with distinct white stripes that feed predominantly on invertebrates (particularly pest species).  Extinct in South Australia and ‘critically endangered’ in Victoria (less than 200 individuals remain), the species is threatened in Tasmania from the recent introduction of foxes as well as habitat clearing. A population genetic analysis of eastern barred bandicoots throughout Tasmania is in progress to determine their population size, structure and dispersal habits. Once determined, management plans and on-field practices can be designed specifically for local regions and focussed on populations at most risk from foxes and further habitat clearing. 

Title of project: The population genetics of the Tasmanian native hen

Client: Tasmanian Department of Primary Industries and Water

Project Outline: The Tasmanian native hen is a rooster-sized flightless bird. Now endemic to Tasmania, it was once widespread in southeastern Australia. The introduction of foxes and dingoes is thought to have caused their disappearance from the Australian mainland. As a result, the recent introduction of foxes in Tasmania has raised fears that Tasmanian native hens may be at high risk of extinction. Consequently, a population genetic analysis of the Tasmanian native hen across its entire range will commence shortly to examine their population structure, size and migration ability. This data will assist management bodies in determining which populations of Tasmanian native hen are at risk from fox predation and where to focus on-ground management practices.