Threatened Species

9.22

a) Select a species and/or ecological community that is threatened.
The numbat.

b) What are the threatening processes?
Habitat loss and the introduction of new species (such as foxes and feral cats), which wiped numbats in NSW, Victoria, Northern Territory, South Australia and nearly in WA as well.

c) What actions have been taken to save the species or ecological community?
In the past, the WA government had trailed fox baiting which increased numbat sightings by 40. Twenty years ago, a research and conservation program was instilled to increase the population of numbats, and fox-free areas have been reintroduced.
Also, Perth Zoo has been breeding and releasing numbats.

d) How have these actions and decisions affected all species including humans?
The fox baiting may had an affect on the population of foxes, however, foxes do not just prey on numbats, they also prey on other animals. Those animals then had a better chance of survival. But on the other hand, foxes prey on rabbits, a known pest, and actually help the ecosystem from being overrun by fast-breeding rabbits.
The re-installation of fox-free areas may have relieved pressure on the survival of domestic animals (such as chickens), as well as the owners knowing that the animals are safer.
The research and conservation program, plus the breeding program of Perth Zoo, raises awareness in the public.

e) Are there any conflicts of interest? Have they been resolved to preserve biodiversity?
I don't think there are any conflicts, as all actions and decisions have had a positive outcome and are in the best interest of the numbats.

f) What is your view of the best solution in saving these species?
At the moment, I think raising public awareness as well as further action (such as extending Perth Zoo's breeding program) would be able to save the numbats.


Let's save these numbats (which are small and cute)!!!!

xD