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One Millimeter Difference Saves Tiny Possums
16 Jun
Summary
- Bushfires destroyed 88% of pygmy-possums habitat on Kangaroo Island.
- Nest boxes with smaller entrances helped tiny possums reclaim homes.
- A one-millimeter change in nest box openings excluded larger possums.
The 2019-2020 Black Summer bushfires devastated Kangaroo Island, destroying an estimated 88% of the habitat for its native pygmy-possums. Conservationists feared the little pygmy-possum, a tiny marsupial, had been wiped out. However, a single surviving individual was found, sparking hope for the species' recovery.
To assist the surviving possums, researchers introduced nest boxes. Initially, these boxes, designed for pygmy-possums, were occupied by larger western pygmy-possums, leaving the smaller, rarer species without adequate shelter. This unintended consequence highlighted the need for a precise solution.
Researchers then modified the nest box entrance holes, reducing the diameter by just one millimeter. This small adjustment proved effective, allowing only the target little pygmy-possums to occupy the boxes. This intervention demonstrates the significant impact even minor changes can have in wildlife conservation efforts.
