Population Census & Potential Predator Assessment
From September 2009 to January 2010 the Foundation for National Parks & Wildlife funded a project to assess the occurrence of Rock-wallabies at ten key sites within the MacDonnell Ranges including an area (Trephina Gorge Nature Reserve) where anecdotal information suggests that the species may have become extinct over the past ten years as a result of predation.
The current number of Black-footed Rock-wallabies (Petrogale lateralis) found in the MacDonnell Ranges, Northern Territory, is not known but is absolutely essential for the effective management of this species.
The data collected ensures the wallabies continue to exist in the MacDonnell Ranges which makes sure the plants and animals that rely on this species will also remain.
Counting the wallabies tells us how many wallabies are in the ranges so that comparisons can be made over time to make sure the population remains stable in the largest remaining stronghold in the Northern Territory.
The Black-footed Rock-wallaby is nationally vulnerable while the sub species found in the Northern Territory is near threatened. This subspecies is characterised by a dense coat of dark grizzled brown fur which changes to grey on the shoulders. A sandy cheek stripe marks the face. Other subspecies of Black-footed Rock-wallabies occur in Western Australia, and islands off the coast of South Australia.
This project was funded by purchases of Wallaby Backyard Buddy toys.
