Greater Bilby, Macrotis lagotis

Problem:
The Greater Bilby was once found as far east as Surat in Queensland.  Its range has contracted alarmingly and today a total of around 600 – 700 animals live in far south-western Queensland near Birdsville.  Recent reports suggest that it may still survive near Cunnamulla.

Background Information:
Greater Bilbies used to live in over 70% of mainland Australia.  They are now found only in the Tanami Desert (NT), the Greater Sandy Desert and Gibson Desert (WA) and in south-western Queensland.

Research:
Reduction of the Greater Bilby's range (extent of the area in which an animal can be found) has resulted from habitat destruction by cattle and rabbits as well as from predation by cats, dingoes and foxes.  Queensland Department of Environment and Heritage researchers are monitoring Greater Bilby burrows now that cattle have been excluded from much of the Bilby's habitat.

Solution:
Ensure Greater Bilbies survive in areas where they now exist.  Increase the number of populations by translocating Greater Bilbies to suitable areas.  Control foxes, cats and dingoes.

The next species is the Southern Tiger Quoll