January–February 2014 47D
ESPITE THE fascination for Rottnest’s
iconic furry marsupial, there’s been
no significant research on the quok-
ka in the past 20 years. But a four-year study
launched this year is analysing the ocean-
locked population. It’s believed there are
8000 to 12,000 quokkas on Rottnest and the
study aims to gather an accurate population
count of the vulnerable species.
Helen Shortland-Jones, coordinator of
the RIA’s research program, says animals
trapped quarterly will give a picture of thequokka’s genetic viability. Why numbers
fluctuate seasonally will also be investigated.
“As with most island populations, there’s
no inflow of genetic material. They’ve been
separated from the mainland for 7000 years,
so that gives you an idea of the level of
inbreeding,” she says. “We’ll take informa-
tion such as gender, age, and any pouch
young. Then we’ll assess [their] general
condition, microchip and ear tag them, and
take a genetic sample from the ear skin.”
The information, collected in partnershipwith the University of Western Australia
and the Department of Parks and Wildlife,
will be used to inform future environmental
management decisions on the islands,
particularly where revegetation of native
woodlands is concerned.
Helen says quokkas have a healthy
appetite for young seedlings. Seed guards
and quokka-proof fencing have been
implemented, and the census results will
help to focus the island’s woodland
restoration strategy.THE SECRET LIFE OF QUOKKAS
Mini-macropod haven.
Although there are
a few tiny mainland
populations, quokkas
have survived better
on Rottnest and Bald
islands, which are free
of cats and foxes.Setonix brachyurus
SEE quokkas close-up.
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