Australia has the highest mammal extinction rate in the world.
Australia has the highest mammal extinction rate in the world.
As I write this a flock of what I think are straw-necked ibis are flying overhead, some wood ducks are doing their usual fence sitting, my maggies are hanging overhead in the gum tree and a couple of pale headed budgerigars are feasting in the unmown grass. I’m lucky [if luck is a choice] to live in one of the most biodiverse regions in Australia.
But the State of Environment Report has left me, whilst not shocked, in tears and so angry.
The recovery plans designed to prevent the extinction of 176 threatened species and their habitats, including Northern Quoll, Tassie Devil and the Koala, were scrapped by the Coalition in one of Sussan Ley’s final acts as environment minister.
What is the State of the Environment report?
Australian scientists have fastidiously gathered and assessed the evidence that contributes to this moment-in-time record of Australia’s environment. We are facing significant challenges due to snowballing pressures from habitat loss and invasive species; pollution, climate change and resource extraction.
CSIRO Chief Executive Dr Larry Marshall urges “all Australians to engage deeply with this report, as a declining environment affects all of us. By working together to take action, we can help our environment to heal”
According to this report, five mammals could fall to extinction within twenty years.
These include:
Northern hopping‑mouse
Central rock‑rat
Carpentarian rock‑rat
Black‑footed tree‑rat
Christmas Island flying fox which features as “F” in our Australian Animal Alphabet flashcards and workbooks.
Most mammal extinctions in Australia have been driven by predation from introduced species, especially the feral cat and European red fox; extinction rates are particularly high in arid and semi‑arid regions of Australia," reads the report.
How can you help?
Neuter your pets and LOCK UP your cats at night. You may not notice your feline out and about killing native species at night- but if they are not locked in- you can be certain they are!
Lobby your local, state and federal governments to mandate better urban planning and agricultural practices.
Lobby big business or walk away from them if they are up to no good.
Support research and innovation.
Volunteer for local wildlife and habitat organisations such as Landcare, Wildlife Rescue or support Bush Heritage.
Use your voice. Sign a petition.
Use your wallet by not supporting businesses that actively assist in destroying our wildlife and habitats.
Advocate for Australian animals – we don’t know they exist we won’t know they are in trouble.
Ask your favourite retailers to stock more Aussie based products. [feel free to add mine into the mix!]
Communicate! Have a conversation with your friends and family about Australian wildlife or have Australian animal movie night.
Overwhelmed?
I sure am!
Just start with one.