We have had a focus on endangered species in the last 12 months, with articles on greater gliders and bandicoots in our local media. Funded through the Victorian Landcare Grants 2023-24, we have delivered several workshops on endangered species and a bird walk with Birdlife Australia.
We have coordinated the fencing off two significant areas of land through this current funding round, one area along the Snowy Creek, where 9.72 hectares of remnant vegetation has been fenced off, including 880 metres of wildlife friendly fencing. This will protect and enhance the habitat of native animals and birds in the area, including the Growling Ground Frog, gliders, and bandicoots.
A second project has seen 658 metres of wildlife fencing, covering .78 hectares along an eroded gully on Yabba Road, on the Mitta Mitta River. Over 1200 native seedlings have been planted and guarded within the fenced area to prevent further erosion and improve biodiversity. This area has seen past recordings of the growling grass frog and was surveyed in 2022 by Charles Stuart University.
Greater Glider (PetauroidesVolans)
The Greater Glider is listed as “Vulnerable” on the IUCN Red List of Threatened Species. Habitat loss due to logging, land clearing, and bushfires poses the most significant threat. Climate change and its impact on eucalyptus forests also threaten their habitat. Conservation efforts focus on protecting and restoring their natural habitat, creating wildlife corridors, and implementing sustainable forestry practices. The Greater Glider is an intriguing marsupial native to Australia. Known for its unique gliding abilities, it is the largest gliding possum in the world.
DESCRIPTION
The Greater Glider is the largest gliding possum, measuring 35-45 cm (14-18 inches) in body length, with a tail length of 45-60cm (18-24 inches). It weighs between 1-1.7 kg (2.2-3.7 lbs). Its fur is dense and soft, varying in colour from dark brown or black to cream or white. Its ears are large, rounded, and fur covered. Eyes are large and forward-facing, adapted for nocturnal vision and its tail is long and bushy, used for balance and steering during glides. A gliding Membrane stretching from elbow to ankle, enabling glides up to 100 meters. The limbs are sharp claws and strong hind legs for gripping and launching into glides. These features make the Greater Glider well-adapted for life in the forest canopy.
HABITAT
Greater Gliders are found in the eucalyptus forests of eastern Australia, ranging from northeastern Queensland to Victoria. They prefer tall, mature forests with dense canopies, which provide the necessary foliage for both shelter and food. These nocturnal creatures are arboreal, spending most of their time in trees, where they use their gliding ability to travel between them.
DIET
Greater Gliders are folivores, primarily feeding on eucalyptus leaves. They have a highly specialized diet, relying on a few species of eucalypts. Their digestive system is adapted to break down the tough, fibrous leaves, extracting the necessary nutrients. Occasionally, they may consume flowers or other plant matter, but eucalyptus leaves are their staple diet.
GENUS
The Greater Glider belongs to the genus Petauroides, which is a monotypic genus, meaning it contains only one species, Petauroides volans. However, recent studies suggest there might be subspecies or even separate species within what was traditionally considered the Greater Glider.
REPRODUCTION
Greater Gliders have a relatively low reproductive rate. Breeding typically occurs from March to June, with females giving birth to a single joey. The joey remains in the mother’s pouch for about four months before transitioning to riding on her back. It becomes independent around nine months old. The low reproductive rate and late maturity make population recovery slow, a significant concern for conservation.
LOCATION
Greater Gliders are predominantly found along the eastern coast of Australia, including forests in the eastern part of Victoria. its specialized habitat requirements and low reproductive rate make it vulnerable to environmental changes and human activities. Conservation efforts are crucial to ensure the survival of this fascinating marsupial, by protecting their habitat and mitigating the impacts of climate change. (Thankyou to Marie Condon for her research)
Projects funded by Victorian Landcare Grants and Junior Landcare Victoria. Several landholders have also taken advantage of the grant, fencing off remanent vegetation, which provides protection for the habitat of many native species including gliders, quolls and bandicoots.
