Temporary freshwater lenses that form in saltwater environments after heavy rainfall provide unique ecological opportunities for species. We present evidence of an Australian amphibian engaging in breeding activities, including calling and amplexus, in tidal mangrove creeks that have been flushed by rainwater. Freshwater lenses may be advantageous for amphibian offspring by reducing exposure to predators found in more permanent freshwater ponds, but at the expense of an increased risk of mortality due to salt exposure from tidal influences. Photograph by John Gould.

Knowledge regarding the parasites infecting threatened fauna, their ecological importance, or their ability to cause disease, is often lacking. Here we summarise the parasite taxa isolated from the critically endangered woylie (Bettongia penicillata) and other sympatric species including the brush-tailed possum (Trichosurus vulpecula hypoleucus) and chuditch (Dasyurus geoffroii) during two fauna translocations in south-western Australia. Several new host–parasite associations were identified, and we now have a greater understanding of the parasites infecting terrestrial wildlife within this Global Biodiversity Hotspot. Photograph by Sarah Keatley (top left), Amanda Ash (bottom left) and Amy Northover (right).