Successful conservation program ensures Bandicoot survival

Researchers at Phillip Island Nature Parks have stated that the population of 67 bandicoots released on the Island in 2017 by the Eastern Barred Bandicoot (EBB) Recovery Team has grown to about 300 animals. Such an increase in Victoria’s population of endangered Eastern barred bandicoots has led scientists to declare they are on the way back from the brink of extinction.

The success of the program is so significant the findings are now being assessed by scientists and may soon result in a downgrading of the species threat status from critically endangered.

The recent results of trap-and-release of microchipped marsupials also revealed the animals have spread at least 4km from their original transplanted home in the wild, including across farmland.

Phillip Island Nature Parks’ Deputy Director of Research Dr Duncan Sutherland said the project to establish bandicoots on Phillip Island has now met the key criteria of success after two and a half years.

Dr Sutherland notes “successful establishment on Phillip Island is a huge step towards securing this species from extinction. We’re successfully reversing the decline.’’

A further 55 bandicoots were released onto French Island last year but it is too early to say if that program has been a success.

Eastern barred bandicoots live for up to three years in the wild, breeding from 3-4 months and have up to five litters of 1-3 young a year.

The EBB Recovery Team includes representatives from: Conservation Volunteers Australia, Department of Environment, Land, Water and Planning (DELWP), Mt Rothwell Biodiversity Interpretation Centre, National Trust of Australia, Parks Victoria, Phillip Island Nature Parks, the University of Melbourne, Tiverton Property Partnering and Zoos Victoria.

The Bandicoot program is just one of the measures the Victorian Government is taking to protect Victoria’s wildlife and biodiversity which includes a 20-year, $80 million biodiversity plan.

Victorian Minister for Energy, Environment and Climate Change Lily D ’Ambrosio advised “this is a wonderful achievement and I thank everyone involved for giving this precious little Victorian a fighting chance at long term survival.

“With the devastating bushfires in January, it’s been a tough year for our native wildlife but this program is showing how hard work and perseverance can really make a difference.”

“This is a huge step forward in securing this species from extinction and another example of the conservation work that continues behind the scenes while our favourite attractions remain closed.”

While Phillip Island Nature Parks’ visitor attractions are currently closed to help slow the spread of Coronavirus, the organisation continues to implement its on-ground conservation and research activities, including significant work to stop the impact of feral cats, which are a threat to bandicoots, penguins and shearwater birds.

Images courtesy of Phillip Island Nature Parks