Overview

This project is building on previous projects by undertaking a genetic rescue of northern bettongs at Mt Spurgeon in the Mareeba region of the Wet Tropics. Terrain NRM is working closely with several partner organisations to successfully move animals from one wild area to another.

Background

Northern bettongs are listed as endangered, with an estimated population of 1000 in the wild. The only known populations are in the Mt Carbine and Lamb Range areas of the Mareeba region, and they are declining.

These bettongs live in open eucalyptus forest and their habitat is very restricted – in some places the forest is only 6km wide. Its declining condition and extent are the main threats to the northern bettong species.

Terrain NRM has been working with partners to extend and improve northern bettong for several years. Building on previous work, this collaborative project is undertaking a genetic rescue of 30 in-bred animals from the Lamb Range to Mt Spurgeon (both National Park areas).

(Northern bettong images: Stephanie Todd)