NCC Baseline Survey

Banyula Baseline Survey

Last week we had 3 small mammal ecologists from the Nature Conservation Council undertake a baseline survey of small mammals found in, and outside of our feral-free enclosure. The purpose was to see what is currently living on this land so we understand the existing ecology of the habitat both sides of the enclosure and can determine best practice management for the property with this in mind.

Periodically, the team will return to survey the same areas then compare the results to potentially revise management prescriptions. With follow up surveys we are expecting that animals inside the enclosure will increase their populations given reduced predation from foxes, cats and wild dogs, while we continue our efforts to eradicate ferals outside the enclosure as well. 

300 Elliott traps were set on day 1, and by day 5, 7 different species were recorded: Antechinus, Melomys, Bandicoot, Swamp Rat, Bush Rat, Dunnart and the star of the show was the Vulnerable Eastern Chestnut Mouse - "a cryptic little animal not often seen, but lovely to know it seems to have a secure stronghold here at Banyula" Dr Sally Townley- Ecologist.