Dibbler  (Parantechinus apicalis)

This species has been lost from 90% of its former range in Australia (4). It is not known why this marsupial is so rare, although surveys suggest various factors. Land clearing and habitat fragmentation are thought to be significant causes of its decline. In addition, the frequent burning of heathland and litter may reduce the availability of invertebrates in the area. Predation by introduced mammals such as foxes and cats are also considered a threat to this species (4).

In 1992 a recovery plan for this species was developed by the International Union for the Conservation of Nature and Natural Resources (IUCN), addressing the threats facing this species (4). Predation by foxes and cats has now been brought under control by The Department of Conservation and Land Management (CALM) and, in the last decade, dibbler numbers have started to increase (5). Perth Zoo has been working with CALM to establish a captive breeding stock of over 100 individuals of this species (6). They have also translocated a group of dibblers to Escape Island; a predator free island which has suitable habitat for this marsupial. Here, radio tracking devices and trapping practices will be used to monitor the populations (5). Considering that the dibbler was on the brink of extinction, this recovery plan has been a great success. It is however essential to maintain these conservation efforts as the dibbler is still regarded as a severely endangered animal (1).