Expertise in Action: Protecting the Vulnerable Greater Bilby Through Targeted Surveys
The Greater Bilby (Macrotis lagotis) is one of Australia's most unique and recognisable marsupials. Unfortunately, it's also listed as Vulnerable under both Northern Territory and national environmental legislation (TPWC Act 1976 and EPBC Act 1999). Ensuring the survival of this iconic species requires diligent conservation efforts and careful management, particularly when land use changes are proposed near potential habitats.
Trace Enterprises is proud to play a role in these efforts by providing expert ecological consulting services, including specialised targeted surveys for threatened species like the Greater Bilby. Recently, our team demonstrated this capability by conducting a crucial Bilby survey to inform an environmental assessment process.
The Challenge: Balancing Development and Conservation
When development activities are planned in areas that might host vulnerable species, environmental regulators often require detailed assessments to understand potential impacts. This was the scenario facing a recent project, where proposed land use changes necessitated a closer look at the potential presence of the Greater Bilby. Understanding if Bilbies were present, and how they were using the landscape, was critical for informed decision-making and regulatory compliance.
Trace Enterprises' Approach: Rigorous Methodology, Expert Observation
Our experienced field ecologists were commissioned to undertake a targeted Greater Bilby survey, following specific, established methodologies designed to maximise the chances of detecting this often-elusive species. Bilbies are nocturnal and shy, meaning direct sightings can be uncommon. Therefore, expertise in identifying indirect evidence is paramount.
Our team meticulously searched the designated survey area and surrounding buffer zones. While no Bilbies were directly observed during the survey period, a significant amount of indirect evidence confirming their presence was recorded. This included:
- Burrows: Identifying active and inactive burrows characteristic of Bilby use.
- Tracks: Recognising distinctive Bilby footprints in suitable substrate.
- Scats: Locating and identifying Bilby droppings.
- Diggings: Observing characteristic foraging diggings and evidence of digging around plant roots.
Interpreting the Signs: Assessing Habitat Use and Potential Impacts
Gathering this evidence allowed us to build a detailed picture of Bilby activity. Based on the abundance and distribution of these signs, we identified specific zones within the broader area where Bilby occurrence was considered "Likely" and "Highly Likely."
This crucial data fed into a significant impact assessment, conducted against the Australian Government’s guidelines. Our findings suggested that the proposed activities had the potential to pose a significant impact on the local Bilby population and their critical habitat resources if appropriate mitigation measures were not implemented.
Informing Responsible Outcomes
Based on our comprehensive survey findings and assessment, Trace Enterprises provided clear, actionable recommendations. These focused on ensuring regulatory compliance and promoting conservation outcomes, including advising on the need for further referrals to relevant environmental agencies and sharing our detailed report and spatial data to aid the ongoing assessment process. We also highlighted the importance of exploring impact mitigation strategies.
Your Partner in Environmental Assessment
This project underscores Trace Enterprises' commitment to rigorous scientific methodology and our expertise in surveying for Australia’s threatened fauna. Understanding the ecology and habitat use of vulnerable species like the Greater Bilby is essential for responsible land management. If your project requires expert environmental assessment, ecological surveys, or specific fauna surveys, particularly for sensitive species, contact Trace Enterprises to discuss how our expertise can assist you.
