The mainland subspecies of the Eastern Barred Bandicoot (Perameles gunnii) is critically endangered and currently only occurs in captivity and in three small re-introduced populations in Victoria. It is estimated that there are fewer than 500 Eastern Barred Bandicoots left in mainland Australia.
The species previously occurred in south-west Victoria and south-east South Australia but since European settlement, 99% of its preferred habitat of native grasslands and grassy woodlands has been lost in Victoria. The introduced Red Fox has also been a major contributor to the extinction of the species from unfenced areas of the mainland.
In Victoria, fox-free habitat is considered to be essential for the future survival of the Eastern Barred Bandicoot. French Island is Victoria’s largest island and, with suitable habitat for this species and no foxes, it could potentially support a large population of bandicoots.
In 2012, eighteen non-breeding bandicoots were released onto French Island as part of a 12-month trial release.
To investigate the survival and habitat use of bandicoots on French Island so as to assess the suitability of the island for a full introduction program. Specifically, the study aimed to:
Bandicoots were fitted with internal radio-transmitters at Melbourne Zoo and released onto French Island. They were then monitored intensively by radio-tracking during the day and at night to confirm their location, status (alive or dead), and habitat use. Bandicoots were also trapped periodically to assess their physical condition and diet (from faecal samples left in the traps).
Primary researcher: Rebecca Groenewegen (MSc candidate, University of Melbourne)
Participating organisations: Zoos Victoria; University of Melbourne; Eastern Barred Bandicoot Recovery Team