UPDATE: In a critical effort to protect endangered wildlife, six rare Southern Brush-tailed Rock-Wallabies have been airlifted 570 kilometers across Australia to bolster an important insurance population. This urgent relocation was confirmed by the Odonata Foundation as part of ongoing initiatives to combat the alarming decline of this species, which now numbers fewer than 100 in the wild.
The wallabies were transported from their rocky habitat to Tidbinbilla Nature Reserve in the Australian Capital Territory (ACT) on Friday morning. This action is vital as these animals face severe threats from habitat destruction and predation by invasive species, particularly European foxes. The relocation aims to enhance the genetic diversity of the 20 wallabies currently residing at Tidbinbilla, a sanctuary known for its conservation success.
Matt Singleton, the chief operating officer of the Odonata Foundation, explained the significance of this transfer. “By spreading the genetics, we can improve the health of multiple populations and ensure their survival against threats like bushfires,” he said. The wallabies will be temporarily housed in one to two-hectare pens upon arrival, allowing them to acclimate while being quarantined from the existing Tidbinbilla population.
The urgency of the situation cannot be overstated. With the Southern Brush-tailed Rock-Wallaby population concentrated in one location near the You Yangs, the species is particularly vulnerable. Singleton noted, “When populations get too small, there’s a danger they can become inbred.” This relocation is a proactive step toward preventing such outcomes and ensuring a sustainable future for this unique species.
Each wallaby was carefully placed inside a backpack for transport, designed to mimic the safety of a mother’s pouch. This method significantly reduces stress, a critical factor for their well-being. “Stress toxins can build up in their bodies and lead to fatal outcomes,” Singleton added, highlighting the meticulous planning involved in this operation.
The initiative is part of a broader collaborative effort, supported by the ACT Government and the significant contributions of Amazon’s $100 million Right Now Climate Fund, aimed at conserving natural habitats worldwide. Singleton expressed gratitude for the partnerships that make this work possible, stating, “It’s a great example of how people can work together to achieve great outcomes in species recovery.”
As the wallabies soar through the skies, the conservation community watches closely. The Odonata Foundation’s work has led to a successful increase in wallaby numbers at the Mount Rothwell Sanctuary, where approximately 300 to 400 individuals thrive. These efforts are crucial in preventing the extinction of one of Australia’s most iconic mammals.
This relocation not only demonstrates the urgency and dedication of conservationists but also highlights the critical importance of protecting Australia’s unique wildlife. The Southern Brush-tailed Rock-Wallaby serves as a reminder of the fragility of ecosystems and the ongoing battle against extinction.
Stay tuned for updates on this developing story as these six wallabies embark on their journey to a safer future.
