Wildlife Habitat key player in fight to save endangered species

WILDLIFE CONSERVATION

Jeremy Lebeuf

Feature Writer

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Passionate Wildlife Habitat Assistant General Manager Sybella Salter, extremely proud of the conservation contributions the park has made this year. Picture: Jeremy Lebeuf

BUSINESS FEATURE

You would think that the value of the Wildlife Habitat is a pleasant day spent in nature with family and friends or the excited innocence of a child encountering animals they have only imagined through the pages of storybooks and cherished plushies.  

Spoiler alert: it's not just about the opportunity to relax with crocodiles, spend time with koalas, or unwind with kangaroos, although all massive, wholesome reasons to visit.

No, the true value of the Habitat might not be obvious to day visitors, but lies in its important role in conservation and breeding programs for endangered species, where it creates a unique connection between people and wildlife.

A significant role in species survival plans

Wildlife Habitat’s successful conservation and breeding programs have etched them as a leader in protecting vulnerable species. The sanctuary has had recognised success with critical species such as the Northern Bettong, Mahogany Glider, and Northern Koala.

Bec Lynch, CaPTA Group Wildlife Manager said that protecting our wildlife has never been more critical, and the consequences of inaction for some species could be extinction.

“I’m extremely proud of the contributions we’ve made to the Northern Bettongs and Mahogany Gliders this year,” she said.

Their recent success is the Nocturnal Habitat exhibit, which uses a reverse lighting cycle to mimic the environment animals expect, inspiring the closest natural habitat that provides for their behavioural and physiological needs.

This is quite an achievement and an applauding testament to the forward-thinking strategies used by Wildlife Habitat. 

Matched by their commitment to excellent care, health management, appropriate housing, and behaviour opportunities has distinguished the team in the conservation and endangered species breeding community.

“It’s thrilling to see the positive impact we’re making through our conservation breeding programs for these endangered species,” Ms Lynch said.

“Our entire CaPTA team is passionate about this work and dedicated to making these programs stronger and more successful each year.

“We ensure our animal welfare commitments are supported through good governance, policy and procedure and a team with the resources, training, skills and experience necessary to enable our wildlife programs to be delivered effectively.”

There are certainly challenges, especially when it comes to boosting population numbers within the captive sector. 

“Access to certain animals and maintaining healthy genetics can often be tricky. However, by collaborating with other institutions in the captive animal community, we tackle these hurdles together,” explains Ms Lynch. 

“We utilise genetic evaluation from partner institutions, share wildlife among them, and assist in wildlife transfers to and from Wildlife Habitat. This collaborative approach helps maintain strong genetics, ensuring animals are well-prepared for future breed-to-wild-release conservation programs.” 

Observation, appreciation and conservation

A real-life face-to-face meeting with wildlife emotes a much deeper bond than any storybook, classroom or documentary ever can. This connection is what people require for conservation to really resonate. 

Wildlife Habitat's ethos emphasises that observation leads to appreciation, which fosters conservation, helping visitors understand how they can contribute. This emotional bond encourages people to care about animals' struggles and motivates them to help.

Conservation advocacy includes public engagement, awareness promotion, stewardship, and fundraising, such as the “Habitat Heroes Adopt an Animal” program. 

What are you waiting for? Visit an ethical wildlife park with strong conservation practices, have a great time, and support the welfare of the species you love!

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