An Update of The Proserpine Rock-wallaby Petrogale persephone Recovery Plan.

Abstract

The Proserpine Rock-wallaby (Petrogale persephone) was not discovered until 1976, with scientific description occurring in 1982 by G.M. Maynes. Petrogale persephone occurs only within the Whitsunday Shire and on Gloucester Island, North Queensland and lives amongst rocky outcrops in elevated pockets of semi-deciduous vine forests. Food is found within the forest and in adjoining woodlands. Changes in land use and habitat fragmentation, through clearing, has isolated many colonies. Habitat loss remains as the single biggest threat to this species followed by road kills in specific areas. Other threats include predation, harassment and transfer of disease from feral and domestic animals. A Recovery Plan has been prepared which identifies priorities for research and management. These priorities include distribution surveys and mapping of habitat, habitat utilisation by P. persephone, captive colony establishment to study reproduction and age estimation and identifying the significance of road kills and predation on the population dynamics of this rock-wallaby. A public education and awareness program has also been developed for implementation.