Residents, landholders and visitors are being invited to share their observations and perspectives on feral animals and their management through a new community survey that will help inform future conservation planning on Cape Naturaliste.
The survey has been developed by the Cape Naturaliste Conservation Enterprise (CNCE) and is designed to better understand community experiences, local knowledge and attitudes towards feral animals and their impacts on the cape’s unique environment.
CNCE coordinator Mandy Polley said the survey is an opportunity for everyone with a connection to Cape Naturaliste to contribute. “We know local people have a wealth of knowledge about the cape and its wildlife. Whether you’ve lived here for decades, own property, work in the area or simply enjoy visiting, your observations and perspectives are valuable,” Mandy said.
“The survey welcomes all viewpoints. There are no right or wrong answers. We’re interested in understanding the community’s experiences so we can make better-informed conservation decisions into the future.”
Cape Naturaliste Conservation Enterprise officer Mandy Polley with feral cat and fox scat
Cape Naturaliste is home to an extraordinary diversity of native wildlife, including the threatened Western Ringtail Possum, Southern Brown Bandicoot (quenda) and Brush-tailed Phascogale. These species face a range of pressures, including habitat loss and predation by introduced animals.
The survey forms part of the Cape Naturaliste Conservation Enterprise’s ongoing work to protect and restore biodiversity across the cape through collaboration with Nature Conservation Margaret River Region, Friends of Meelup, private landholders, community members, Traditional Owners, researchers and government agencies. The results will help build a clearer picture of community perceptions and local observations, providing valuable information to guide future planning and conservation initiatives.
Ringtail possums are keystone species in the Margaret River region
Nature Conservation Margaret River Region encourages everyone with an interest in Cape Naturaliste’s environment to take part. The survey takes only a few minutes to complete, and all responses will contribute to a community-led understanding of how best to support the cape’s remarkable native wildlife. One lucky respondent will win a $100 Coles voucher.
CLICK HERE to complete the online survey. For more information about the Cape Naturaliste Conservation Enterprise, visit www.natureconservation.org.au/cape-naturaliste-conservation-enterprise/