Australia’s Government Steps in to Animal Species Recover from Wildfires
By March 2nd, 2020, Massive wildfires in Australia had burned down over 13.6 million acres of land, leaving about 30 people dead, and destroying over 2000 homes. This has affected a third of Australia’s population. The fires have not only affected humans, but also killed about a billion wildlife and aquatic life, leaving some gruesome scenes on the land, and threatening the supplies of drinking water.
The Australian government, working together with scientists’ expert panels, is working on measures to help the animal and plant species recover from the fire effects, especially those threatened by extinction. The long term goal is to support species recovery and reverse the species decline.
Animals Most Affected by Australia’s Wildfires
Australia is home to many unique plants and animals, with cultural identity and significance, and with both environmental and economic contributions. The government has put in a road map that involves scientific, action-based, and partnership strategies; to help reverse the declining trend of the species population towards their recovery.
However, several species are most affected as they had been threatened by extinction long before the fires. Efforts have been put in by the government and other bodies to help save the most endangered species, and help recover their populations. These animals are:
- Kangaroo Island dunnart was hard hit by the fires, besides being threatened by predator feral cats and foxes.
- The western ground parrot, whose population had been endangered even before wildfires, with a total population of 150 birds, is an endangered species.
- The glossy black cockatoo of Kangaroo Island and the regent honeyeater birds were assessed to be close to extinction.
- The Long-footed potoroo was and endangered species before the fires and now faces their habitat loss too.
- Australiana Koala, whose population had already declined from excessive tree clearing, is at the risk of getting wiped out by the fires. Some of its species are either significantly or wholly exterminated.
Measures by The Australian Government in Wildlife Recovery Efforts
- The government has employed science-based approaches. It has engaged scientists to come up with evidence-based actions that have a high likelihood of succeeding.
- It is employing a partnership-building approach that seeks to create conservation awareness in the society by engaging members of the community. The plan is to encourage them to play an active role in the conservation of threatened species.
Having various bodies of the society working together ensures the resources set aside for these efforts are well utilized. Having a passionate and committed community that is working together to protect endangered species have a higher chance of attaining success.
- Having a clear set of actions through which the government can support practical conservation efforts in the community. Then seeking to streamline a regulatory framework, with action directed through hard targets that are measurable for accountability and with quantifiable objectives.
- The Australian government has set aside a $50 million fund to aid efforts targeted towards the rescue, gathering, and recovery of wildlife. The fund will go towards setting up evacuation centers and fund staff that will enter affected areas and treat the injured animals.