The Upper Murray Landcare Network held community events that showcased the region’s diversity of wildlife. A booklet has been produced of the survey results.

These community events formed part of the wildlife survey undertaken throughout the seven Landcare areas of Victoria’s Upper Murray. Wildlife Ecologists Matt Herring and Hugh McGregor, who are based in Albury-Wodonga, coordinated the study and said the total species list has risen to 134, with 112 birds, 13 mammals, 6 reptiles and 3 frogs.
Mr Herring said “There have already been many exciting finds, such as the Long-nosed Bandicoot, Red-necked Wallaby, Sugar Glider, Wonga Pigeon, Bassian Thrush and Hooded Robin. We’ve also found Greater Gliders and Feather-tail Gliders in public land adjacent to some of the sites”.
“These positive results continue to highlight the significance of remnant patches of native vegetation on farms, and reflect the good management being implemented by many landholders. The retention of fallen timber, avoiding over-grazing, controlling feral animals and weeds, and revegetating cleared areas are just some of the Landcare works being undertaken in the Upper Murray to benefit local wildlife”.
Local people had the opportunity to participate in the wildlife survey at both events and gain ed first-hand experience of some of the techniques used to find cryptic animals like Antechinus, commonly known as marsupial mice, and micro-bats.
As part of the Platypus Survey, people were encouraged to survey waterways over the whole weekend but especially on the Saturday afternoon on dusk. This has now resulted in a further Platypus survey project in 2009
The Wildlife surveys conducted by Murray Wildlife were very successful with 30 sites surveyed and a booklet produced. ‘Wildlife of the Upper Murray’ is now available through the Corryong Tourist Information Centre or by contacting Lyn Coulston 0260727534