The distribution of Long-nosed PotorooPotorous tridactylus tridactylushabitat on the far north coast of New South Wales

Abstract

The Long-nosed Potoroo Potorous tridactylus tridactylus has declined substantially on the far north coast of New South Wales. In this study, the known and potential habitat of the Long-nosed Potoroo on the coastal sandplain in the region is mapped in detail for the first time. A total of 3,613 ha of potential habitat is distributed in 10 areas from 24 ha to 1,423 ha in size. Heathy Scribbly Gum Eucalyptus signata woodland was considered to be particularly significant habitat in the region. While there is evidence that eight of the areas mapped once supported potoroos, their presence has only been confirmed in four of them since 2000. Targeted survey at known sites where the Long-nosed Potoroo has not been recently confirmed is urgently required, as well as a thorough reassessment of its conservation status in the region. Ecological research into threats and food preferences, and implementation of targeted conservation management actions is also needed.