There are now six species roaming wild, and their numbers are increasing dramatically as their population expands and through human action. As they spread, they raise uncomfortable issues for conservation.
Fragments of woodland surrounded by cleared land in south west Australia.
Google Earth
Australia may have reputation for vast areas of wilderness, but in reality the continent’s ecosystems have been chopped and diced. Now we need to protect what’s left.
Kisses aren’t the only magic that happens under Australian mistletoe.
Margaret Donald/Flickr
In many parts of the world, Christmas and mistletoe are inextricably intertwined. But in the natural world, mistletoe has long fascinated naturalists and scientists.
Sudan, the last remaining male northern white rhinoceros, meets the Maasai Cricket Warriors.
Thomas Mukoya / Reuters
The government is set to restrict green groups’ right to challenge environmental approvals in court. But the law isn’t doing its job in protecting Australia’s plants and animals anyway.
Some Australian birds are pushing out other species, and even damaging trees. The good news is we can help stop the spread of these birds, by putting native plants in our gardens.
Declining numbers mean the continent’s top predator isn’t fulfilling its ecological role.
While ecotourists enjoy the warm waters of the Cuiaba River in Brazil, our presence in natural areas like this may have unanticipated costs for local wildlife.
We’re familiar with the idea of releasing almost-extinct species into new areas. By doing the same with common animals, we can help stop their population numbers getting into the same perilous state.
Koalas are again in the firing line. But should diseased animals be culled for the greater good?
moon-dog/flickr
Research has shown that culling koalas could help stop the spread of deadly chlamydia. But how open will Australians be to killing one our favourite animals?
It’s high time we gave Australian wildlife a helping hand.
AAP Image/Sam Mooy
A 21st century government would put the environment on at least an equal footing with the economy. That means no more extinctions, and no more putting ourselves before wildlife or future generations.