Protecting the Pilbara’s biodiversity
Efforts to protect the Pilbara’s biodiversity have received a boost through a new strategic partnership between the Western Australian Government and Rio Tinto.
As part of the Pilbara Conservation Project, Rio Tinto will allocate $8 million over five years to support the Department of Biodiversity, Conservation and Attractions’ delivery of weed management, feral animal control and bushfire management at Karijini National Park, Millstream Chichester National Park, and other sites in the region.
The partnership will also support the creation of five new full-time jobs, plus training and fee-for-service work for Aboriginal ranger groups.
The Pilbara Olive Python is listed as vulnerable. Photo credit: Australian Reptile Guide
The Pilbara has a high level of species diversity and many endemic plants and animals, including one of the richest reptile assemblages in the world, more than 125 species of acacia, and more than 1000 species of aquatic invertebrates.
Species in the region that are listed by the Commonwealth Government as being of national environmental significance include the northern quoll, Pilbara olive python, greater bilby, ghost bat, and Pilbara leaf-nosed bat.
