Safeguard a Bandicoot from Extinction

Once again we will start off with habitat conditions at Woodlands Historic Park in this update.  Woodlands is officially waterlogged!  The rain continued well into autumn and has now returned to average monthly rainfall.  This is more than enough water and we quite possibly will not need anymore until spring.  Although I do not wish to jinx this.  The long term forecast is for above average rainfall in this area over the next 6 moths so we are excited about rapid growth once the warmer months arrive. This is the first time in four years we have had this luxury. 

The tussock structure of the native grasses has become very dense making nesting for bandicoots possible throughout the entire enclosure.  With the ground being so moist, it is now easy to see fresh bandicoot feed diggings everywhere.  So with the increased habitat and food source there should be shortage of breeding during this winter period.  With the next round of monitoring planned for October we will hopefully catch plenty of young new born and bred bandicoots in healthy body condition. 

There has been an aggressive weed control program running whilst the native grasses return.  The main target is called serrated tussock.  This grass is an introduced species and classified noxious.  As is has the ability to take over and monopolies other species.  We have been targeting the densest areas within quality native species areas. So far 52 hectares have been sprayed out which is fantastic.  Already the natives are growing over the top of the dead weeds. 

New wildflower planting plots are ready and the 9000 new plants are being delivered in the next few weeks.  It will be very exciting to plant these areas out and diversify the grasslands and see all the new flowers colours this spring and summer. 

The most EXCITING reward for all the hard work payed off in June. Woodlands finally was able to receive bandicoots from Zoos Victoria breeding program to help replenish our stocks and diversify the genetic pool.  Six were released in total including 3 males and 3 females.  These animals are young adults which means they arrive with optimal breeding lifespan ahead of them. We wish them well meeting the existing bandicoots and help the population rise.

Once again great work everyone involved from Conservation Volunteers Australia, Parks Victoria, volunteers and all members of the Eastern Barred Bandicoot Recovery Team who have assisted with making this possible. Most importantly the continued financial commitment from our sponsors through this platform is essential in allowing us to protect and grow the species numbers.

THANK YOU again and we look forward to your ongoing support.