Australasian Vertebrate Pest Conference
A big moment for a first-year PhD student is getting to deliver a talk on your research at an international conference. I was delighted to attend the AVPC in August 2024 and talk about the first stage of my research which is to better understand how we can assess ecosystem service impacts of invasice species. It was a great opportunity to learn more about invasive species management from the experts in Australasia and see first-hand how cultural differences can shape conservation initiatives.
Bettong translocations in Canberra
Whilst in Australia, I had the chance to shadow the work of the incredible researchers at the Australian National University who work on Mulligans Flat. I accompanied the team on bettong trapping and translocation; this programme is to support bettong movement across the site where predator-proof fencing is set up to protect native species. Not only did I get to help translocate some bettongs, but we also got to see some possums and even a couple of quolls - a real wildlife highlight and an experience for which I will forever be grateful. Find out more about the amazing conservation work on Mulligans Flat here www.mulligansflat.org.au.
Eastern Grey Kangaroo Fertility Control
Of course, it wouldn't be a trip to Australia without a good fix of kangaroos!
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I went out to Weston Park, Yarralumla with the team at the CSIRO who are deploying Eastern Grey Kangaroo fertility control. Kangaroos are a native species in Australia, but overabundance is a problem for the environment. So, fertility control is applied to ensure their population doesn't get too large.