Threatened Species Commissioner
October 19
The #ThreatenedSpecies Strategy has a commitment to save the critically endangered Christmas Island Flying fox from #extinction as one of the 20 mammals by 2020 targets. And I had some good news this week. The population is stable and, according to Sally Barnes the Director of National Parks, 'there is a healthier number of animals needed to create a secure population". Read more from Parks Australia here: http://bit.ly/2eKWXvt
My team member Sebastian recently joined Taronga Zoo scientists and staff from Parks Australia in conservation field work on the flying fox. Sebastian and Parks Australia staff have briefed me, and the news is encouraging. The surveys found an estimated population of 2,000. The last comprehensive survey estimated the population to be as low as 300.
Flying fox surveys are hard work, particularly in the tropics. But the animals are remarkably cute and catching them is worth the effort. Here's a photo I received from the field work team, which follows strict animal ethics procedures to ensure no adverse impacts on the animals.
The #ThreatenedSpecies Strategy is investing $500,000 in eradication of#FeralCats on the Island as part of a suite invasive species actions stabilising the island's ecology. And Parks Australia is designing a flying fox captive management program in the event that one is needed. A Green Army Gov team on the island is also helping the rangers with habitat restoration and invasive species management on the island.
#WildOz #SavingSpecies Christmas Island Christmas Island Tourism Association Island Care Christmas Island
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