Water mouse recovery project: Summary

Project achievements | Recovery plan aims | Next step

Searching tor Water
Mouse Mounds.

In 2002, the Threatened Species Network of WWF funded WPSQ to develop an interim South-East Queensland (SEQ)Regional Recovery Plan for the Water mouse (Xeromys myoides).

This project presented many exciting opportunities for interested volunteers to assist towards the recovery of a rare and threatened species through fieldwork and research.

The project trained interested volunteers, including employees of several Local Councils and QPWS. All the sessions had unexpectedly high levels of participation. Community participation and enthusiasm remained high because of the excitement of working on a project to protect such a fascinating native animal.

A Draft Interim Recovery Plan was developed and submitted to the Environmental Protection Agency in 2005, along with a Threat Abatement and Feral Pest Monitoring and Management Plan Proposal. Already, the project has increased local authority awareness of the species and its management requirements.

Project achievements

Increased awareness and support for management of the Water mouse and future efforts to protect the species and its habitats.
Compilation of known information
Targeted surveys, community training and field days in Water mouse population areas.
Detailed information on recommended recovery actions and costing of information.
A plan to undertake adaptive management and feral control at three sites identified by local government and QPWS was costed, but funding is still to be allocated for this work.

Recovery plan aims

The draft SEQ Regional Recovery Plan identifies appropriate Recovery Actions for X. myoides and its habitat. It also identifies the resources essential for ensuring the survival of viable breeding populations of X. myoides within a timeframe of 5 years.

Initial aims

To select and train volunteers to investigate the presence of X. myoides in unsurveyed habitats within the project area.
To trial the establishment of feral species monitoring programs in conjunction with local authorities.
To collate existing data on the distribution of X. myoides and develop a draft SEQ Interim Regional Recovery Plan.

Planned actions

The SEQ plan identified 6 main actions that will successfully fulfil recovery objectives.

1. Refine knowledge of Water mouse distribution and population dynamics.

2. Investigate specific elements of ecology and biology of the Water mouse.

3. Assess the conservation status and level of threats to Water mouse populations and their habitats.

4. Develop, trial and implement effective management prescriptions for Water mouse populations.

5. Foster community support, participation and awareness of the Water mouse situation.

6. Administer a recovery plan and manage the Water mouse's recovery process.

Next step

The Water Mouse interim recovery plan has been submitted to the EPA for approval and implementation.

Information about the Water mouse

For more information on WPSQ's activities, contact the office by email or call + 61 7 3221 0194.

Wildlife Preservation Society of Queensland

May 2006