Mulgara Case study

Since 2000, WMC Resources Mt Keith Operations has funded a study into the population dynamics of arid zone mammals, particularly the Mulgara (Dasycercus cristicauda). The study has endeavoured to understand why numbers of Mulgaras and associated species fluctuate so markedly from year to year.

In 2001, the trapping program was very successful with large numbers of a variety of fauna observed. Since then species captured have declined rapidly. Low capture rates were recorded for all species in 2002 and 2003 despite extensive trapping in these years. Only 24 Mulgaras were captured in 2002 and 13 in 2003. Even more pronounced has been the decline of rodents at the site. In 2001, 563 introduced house mice (Mus musculus) were captured - eight in 2002 and none in 2003. Similarly, 241 Sandy Inland Mouse (Pseudomys hermannsburgensis) were captured in 2001, but only 4 were captured in 2003. Dry conditions during these two years are believed to be the main contributing factor for low numbers captured. Below average rainfall was recorded in 2002 (210mm) and 2003 (240mm).

Work in 2004 focused on intensive trapping in known colony areas and resurveyed areas where Mulgaras were previously known to occur. Radio tracking was undertaken during two monitoring periods this year. An increase in activity was recorded for most species except the Desert Mouse (Pseudomys desertor) and Desert Hopping Mouse (Notomys alexis). 19 Mulgaras were captured, some of which were juveniles indicating that the species is breeding successfully. This increase in numbers also corresponds to above average rainfall for the year. Dietary studies were also carried out in 2004 and indicate that Mulgaras are prey preferential and switch their diet according to season.

This research will be the subject of a separate report to be released by the Department of Conservation and Land Management (CALM) at the conclusion of the study.

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