Conservation organisation Aussie Ark has launched a crowdfunding campaign to save another Australian native animal from extinction.
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Broad-toothed rats are critical to our native environment, and they are disappearing - rapidly.
Aussie Ark says If the broad-toothed rat disappears from the Barrington Tops, the compounding effects will be felt by all species within the ecosystem.
Aussie Ark is building a captive breeding nucleus for the species, constructing intensive breeding facilities, modification of sites for release to sanctuary, wild population supplement and research.
"Rats bring with them the connotation of dirty and diseased and lack the attention of the world in comparison to pandas, elephants, or tigers. However, they play a critical role, and it's up to us to make sure they are given the chance to survive," said Hayley Shute, manager of conservation at Aussie Ark.
The broad-toothed rat, or Tooarrana, is unique in nature and behaviour. They make and use runways through the dense wet grasses and tussocks they inhabit, which protect them from predators. They nest and shelter under logs and undergrowth, huddling in these nests to stay warm in winter. Their diet consists of almost all greenery and so their bright green faeces are very distinguishable.
The species numbers have decreased drastically due to the compounding threats they face. Introduced predators, such as foxes and cats, prey upon them. Feral horses, cattle, and pigs degrade their habitat and outcompete them for food. Weeds such as Scotch broom take over their environment, decreasing food plants and shelter.
The 2019-2020 bushfires destroyed no less than one third of the animal's total remaining habitat. They now have less to call home and their future is at risk. The impact these fires have had is shown to be far worse than first anticipated. Many species that were already vulnerable are now facing extinction.
The loss of the Tooarrana will be detrimental to other species as well as the ecosystem it lives in. It is known that we as humans can bounce back from natural disasters, however for our vulnerable Australian native species their future cannot be restored without help.
The Tooarrana belongs to the Barrington Tops. Sadly, it is on a trajectory to extinction if action is not taken in the short term.
You can support Aussie Ark and their mission to save this elusive species by donating today at www.justgiving.com/campaign/savethebroadtoothedrat.
