Distribution and status of the spectacled hare-wallaby, Lagorchestes conspicillatus

Abstract

Past and present distributions of Lagorchestes conspicillatus were compared using data from museums, explorers' records and from recent field surveys. These data indicated that L. conspicillatus has declined in distribution and abundance during the last century. This species is now rare in the Pilbara and Kimberley regions of Western Australia. It is moderately common between latitudes 16Ú and 18ÚS in central and eastern Northern Territory, and its range extends north to around 12ÚS in Arnhem Land. However, the southern limits of its range in the Northern Territory have contracted northward by over 200 km and it is rarely recorded below 21ÚS. L. conspicillatus remains widespread in Queensland although its numbers in several areas appear to have declined in the last 10-15 years. The status of L. conspicillatus should be regarded as vulnerable. Most of its preferred habitats are currently under pastoral lease and at risk of alteration by introduced herbivores or clearing. Unfavourable fire regimes and feral animals may also pose a threat to its survival in some areas. Habitats suitable for L. conspicillatus are very poorly represented in National Parks throughout northern Australia and this situation should be rectified.