The shocking truth behind the surge of Aussie animal extinctions: Are we losing control?

In today's fast-paced world, it's easy to get distracted by the numerous technological advancements and social changes that have come to define the modern era.

After all, just in the last 60 years, we've witnessed incredible achievements such as our first steps on the moon, the invention of the internet, and monumental strides in terms of rights for minorities, women, and even animals.



However, it's important not to overlook some of the more concerning developments taking place right on our doorstep, especially when it comes to the alarming rate of animal extinctions seen in Australia in recent decades.

Since the 1960s, an estimated 23 animal species have been wiped out of their home in Australia – a figure that's surely a cause for concern.

While many may instinctively point the finger at the nation's rampant land clearing and habitat destruction issues, surprisingly, this is not the main cause behind such extensive loss.


Screen Shot 2023-05-23 at 3.03.03 PM.png
Invasive species were responsible for 17 of the 23 extinction events in the last six decades. Credit: Pixabay/pen_ash.



According to a recent report by the Invasive Species Council (ISC), 17 of these extinctions can, in fact, be attributed to the impact of invasive species.

With our globalised society and increased mobility of people and products, ISC warns that Australia may not be sufficiently prepared to deter a potential epidemic that could annihilate many more of our cherished native species.

'Mobility of people and products is accelerating madly — it's getting out of control,' warns report author Tim Low. 'Look at the way COVID-19 jumped out of nowhere and took over the world. That can happen with any kind of disease affecting any kind of plant or animal.'



To grasp the severity of the situation, let's take a closer look at some of the animals we've sadly lost since the 1960s. Among the 23 total probable wild extinctions, three species still exist but have completely vanished from their original wild habitats.

Does this mean we should completely disregard habitat loss as a factor in their extinction? Absolutely not, states Mr Low.

While habitat loss remains a significant threat to numerous iconic Aussie species – such as the koala, which was listed as endangered in 2022 – Mr Low argues that a focus on biosecurity measures is vital in preventing further extinction.

Primary Cause of Extinction.jpg

Australia currently faces several areas of concern in regard to invasive species, including risks associated with bird flu and the illegal importation of crayfish. Such invasions not only endanger animals but also threaten the vitality of entire plant species, with 16 types of plants across NSW and Queensland reportedly at immediate risk of extinction due to invasive pathogens.

However, it's not all doom and gloom. By working to rebalance our focus on biosecurity and implementing sufficient protection measures for agriculture and our vulnerable flora and fauna, we may still have a chance at preserving Australia's unique biodiversity.

In order to have a chance to do that, we must be prepared for the challenges posed by invasive species and other factors like climate change, which Mr Low predicts will become the primary driver of extinction by the end of the century.

Key Takeaways

  • Since the 1960s, Australia has wiped out an estimated 23 animal species from their home ranges.
  • A new report found that invasive species were the cause of 17 animal extinctions, and Australia may not be prepared to prevent a new pandemic from wiping out more native species.
  • Habitat loss remains a critical threat to many iconic Australian species, including koalas, and there needs to be a focus on preventing biosecurity threats to wildlife.
  • Invasive species are expected to continue being the biggest driver of extinction in Australia until the end of the century, after which climate change may take over as the primary cause.



As Aussies, we must work together to raise awareness about the significant threats facing our native wildlife and to advocate for measures that help protect our unique ecosystems.

Through education, action, and maintaining an unwavering focus on the issues at hand, we can take control of this situation and help ensure the survival of the incredible array of plant and animal life that makes Australia so unique and special.

Remember, it's not just up to our government and scientists to tackle this problem – there's plenty we can do on an individual level to make a difference. So let's do our part by staying informed, spreading the word, and working together to protect and preserve our precious wildlife.


Screen Shot 2023-05-23 at 3.02.48 PM.png
To prevent future extinction events, the report recommends a 'rebalancing' of biosecurity in Australia. Credit: Pexels/Valeriia Miller.



It's easy to become overwhelmed by the threats facing our wildlife, but we want to remind our members that small changes can make a big difference. Whether it's becoming an advocate for habitat conservation or learning more about animal issues, every bit counts.

If these aren't feasible for you at the moment, we encourage you to share this story with your friends and family instead. We also welcome you to share your thoughts in the comment section below and initiate a conversation. We value your perspective and, as always, would be delighted to hear your opinions on this issue!
 
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In today's fast-paced world, it's easy to get distracted by the numerous technological advancements and social changes that have come to define the modern era.

After all, just in the last 60 years, we've witnessed incredible achievements such as our first steps on the moon, the invention of the internet, and monumental strides in terms of rights for minorities, women, and even animals.



However, it's important not to overlook some of the more concerning developments taking place right on our doorstep, especially when it comes to the alarming rate of animal extinctions seen in Australia in recent decades.

Since the 1960s, an estimated 23 animal species have been wiped out of their home in Australia – a figure that's surely a cause for concern.

While many may instinctively point the finger at the nation's rampant land clearing and habitat destruction issues, surprisingly, this is not the main cause behind such extensive loss.


View attachment 20472
Invasive species were responsible for 17 of the 23 extinction events in the last six decades. Credit: Pixabay/pen_ash.



According to a recent report by the Invasive Species Council (ISC), 17 of these extinctions can, in fact, be attributed to the impact of invasive species.

With our globalised society and increased mobility of people and products, ISC warns that Australia may not be sufficiently prepared to deter a potential epidemic that could annihilate many more of our cherished native species.

'Mobility of people and products is accelerating madly — it's getting out of control,' warns report author Tim Low. 'Look at the way COVID-19 jumped out of nowhere and took over the world. That can happen with any kind of disease affecting any kind of plant or animal.'



To grasp the severity of the situation, let's take a closer look at some of the animals we've sadly lost since the 1960s. Among the 23 total probable wild extinctions, three species still exist but have completely vanished from their original wild habitats.

Does this mean we should completely disregard habitat loss as a factor in their extinction? Absolutely not, states Mr Low.

While habitat loss remains a significant threat to numerous iconic Aussie species – such as the koala, which was listed as endangered in 2022 – Mr Low argues that a focus on biosecurity measures is vital in preventing further extinction.



Australia currently faces several areas of concern in regard to invasive species, including risks associated with bird flu and the illegal importation of crayfish. Such invasions not only endanger animals but also threaten the vitality of entire plant species, with 16 types of plants across NSW and Queensland reportedly at immediate risk of extinction due to invasive pathogens.

However, it's not all doom and gloom. By working to rebalance our focus on biosecurity and implementing sufficient protection measures for agriculture and our vulnerable flora and fauna, we may still have a chance at preserving Australia's unique biodiversity.

In order to have a chance to do that, we must be prepared for the challenges posed by invasive species and other factors like climate change, which Mr Low predicts will become the primary driver of extinction by the end of the century.

Key Takeaways

  • Since the 1960s, Australia has wiped out an estimated 23 animal species from their home ranges.
  • A new report found that invasive species were the cause of 17 animal extinctions, and Australia may not be prepared to prevent a new pandemic from wiping out more native species.
  • Habitat loss remains a critical threat to many iconic Australian species, including koalas, and there needs to be a focus on preventing biosecurity threats to wildlife.
  • Invasive species are expected to continue being the biggest driver of extinction in Australia until the end of the century, after which climate change may take over as the primary cause.



As Aussies, we must work together to raise awareness about the significant threats facing our native wildlife and to advocate for measures that help protect our unique ecosystems.

Through education, action, and maintaining an unwavering focus on the issues at hand, we can take control of this situation and help ensure the survival of the incredible array of plant and animal life that makes Australia so unique and special.

Remember, it's not just up to our government and scientists to tackle this problem – there's plenty we can do on an individual level to make a difference. So let's do our part by staying informed, spreading the word, and working together to protect and preserve our precious wildlife.


View attachment 20473
To prevent future extinction events, the report recommends a 'rebalancing' of biosecurity in Australia. Credit: Pexels/Valeriia Miller.



It's easy to become overwhelmed by the threats facing our wildlife, but we want to remind our members that small changes can make a big difference. Whether it's becoming an advocate for habitat conservation or learning more about animal issues, every bit counts.

If these aren't feasible for you at the moment, we encourage you to share this story with your friends and family instead. We also welcome you to share your thoughts in the comment section below and initiate a conversation. We value your perspective and, as always, would be delighted to hear your opinions on this issue!

Australia has the highest rate of EXSTINCTION of native animals world wide !!!!! And we have done this in 220 years ........ other countries have done it over thousands of years !!!!!!
Terri
Wildlife Rescue and Care
 
YES, I DO RECALL READING THAT Australia is LEADING the WORLD in the speed of the decimation of our wildlife.

It's Not really something to be proud of is it.

both Miss management and Mr. management are equally at fault.

I was driving in a vehicle a few years ago with a Spanish Hitchhiker Who said, "WHY DOES YOUR COUNTRY KILL ALL THE BEES?" he pointed to all of the pretty flowers on our nature strips and said bees are attracted there.

i remembered how my radiator and my father's radiator and my friends' radiators always had DEAD bees in them and it affected me to want to do something about it.

I went to the shire council in Byron Bay and in Ballina and talked to officials there about how planting flowers attracted bees that had to cross busy highways and were they aware that this happens and was basically guffawed at with laughter on both occasions. Drivers unknowingly kill HEAPS of bees this way I reckon.

And all it takes is one complaint from a person who builds a new house next to a hundred-year-old tree, that is an established habitat, to get it chopped and mulched because it's affecting the driveway. When all the council need do is DEEP trench cut with a Ditchwich Machine and fill it with concrete mixed with a repellant and the tree roots won't cross or go under it.

Right throughout our nation NOUSE (the application of awareness) is being replaced by often ill-advised ideas sourced from computers and fed into town planning etc.

If Only politicians WOULD ASK, then all manner of supportive advice to assist our wildlife and bring positive benefit to the lives of all Australians would ensue.

The think tank in Canberra unfortunately appears no deeper than a Petrie dish, judging by the majority of PRETTY DUMB decisions being made.
 
In today's fast-paced world, it's easy to get distracted by the numerous technological advancements and social changes that have come to define the modern era.

After all, just in the last 60 years, we've witnessed incredible achievements such as our first steps on the moon, the invention of the internet, and monumental strides in terms of rights for minorities, women, and even animals.



However, it's important not to overlook some of the more concerning developments taking place right on our doorstep, especially when it comes to the alarming rate of animal extinctions seen in Australia in recent decades.

Since the 1960s, an estimated 23 animal species have been wiped out of their home in Australia – a figure that's surely a cause for concern.

While many may instinctively point the finger at the nation's rampant land clearing and habitat destruction issues, surprisingly, this is not the main cause behind such extensive loss.


View attachment 20472
Invasive species were responsible for 17 of the 23 extinction events in the last six decades. Credit: Pixabay/pen_ash.



According to a recent report by the Invasive Species Council (ISC), 17 of these extinctions can, in fact, be attributed to the impact of invasive species.

With our globalised society and increased mobility of people and products, ISC warns that Australia may not be sufficiently prepared to deter a potential epidemic that could annihilate many more of our cherished native species.

'Mobility of people and products is accelerating madly — it's getting out of control,' warns report author Tim Low. 'Look at the way COVID-19 jumped out of nowhere and took over the world. That can happen with any kind of disease affecting any kind of plant or animal.'



To grasp the severity of the situation, let's take a closer look at some of the animals we've sadly lost since the 1960s. Among the 23 total probable wild extinctions, three species still exist but have completely vanished from their original wild habitats.

Does this mean we should completely disregard habitat loss as a factor in their extinction? Absolutely not, states Mr Low.

While habitat loss remains a significant threat to numerous iconic Aussie species – such as the koala, which was listed as endangered in 2022 – Mr Low argues that a focus on biosecurity measures is vital in preventing further extinction.


Australia currently faces several areas of concern in regard to invasive species, including risks associated with bird flu and the illegal importation of crayfish. Such invasions not only endanger animals but also threaten the vitality of entire plant species, with 16 types of plants across NSW and Queensland reportedly at immediate risk of extinction due to invasive pathogens.

However, it's not all doom and gloom. By working to rebalance our focus on biosecurity and implementing sufficient protection measures for agriculture and our vulnerable flora and fauna, we may still have a chance at preserving Australia's unique biodiversity.

In order to have a chance to do that, we must be prepared for the challenges posed by invasive species and other factors like climate change, which Mr Low predicts will become the primary driver of extinction by the end of the century.

Key Takeaways

  • Since the 1960s, Australia has wiped out an estimated 23 animal species from their home ranges.
  • A new report found that invasive species were the cause of 17 animal extinctions, and Australia may not be prepared to prevent a new pandemic from wiping out more native species.
  • Habitat loss remains a critical threat to many iconic Australian species, including koalas, and there needs to be a focus on preventing biosecurity threats to wildlife.
  • Invasive species are expected to continue being the biggest driver of extinction in Australia until the end of the century, after which climate change may take over as the primary cause.



As Aussies, we must work together to raise awareness about the significant threats facing our native wildlife and to advocate for measures that help protect our unique ecosystems.

Through education, action, and maintaining an unwavering focus on the issues at hand, we can take control of this situation and help ensure the survival of the incredible array of plant and animal life that makes Australia so unique and special.

Remember, it's not just up to our government and scientists to tackle this problem – there's plenty we can do on an individual level to make a difference. So let's do our part by staying informed, spreading the word, and working together to protect and preserve our precious wildlife.


View attachment 20473
To prevent future extinction events, the report recommends a 'rebalancing' of biosecurity in Australia. Credit: Pexels/Valeriia Miller.



It's easy to become overwhelmed by the threats facing our wildlife, but we want to remind our members that small changes can make a big difference. Whether it's becoming an advocate for habitat conservation or learning more about animal issues, every bit counts.

If these aren't feasible for you at the moment, we encourage you to share this story with your friends and family instead. We also welcome you to share your thoughts in the comment section below and initiate a conversation. We value your perspective and, as always, would be delighted to hear your opinions on this issue!
 
We can start by ridding the country of feral cats. They have wiped out 10 species of ground dwelling birds so far. Keep your cats inside.
 
It should be obvious to everybody -the more people migrate to Australia, the more we need to build roads, schools, shops, the more lakes and rivers will dry out ( especially in WA), the more food has to be grown, the more trees we have to cut. By doing so, we are wiping out our wild life.
So called "economic growth" should not be achieved through the endless population growth, by through increased productivity and innovation.
 
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It's true. First nations people talked about, and First settlers talked about, the massive plantations they had and innovations like fish Farming (Berwarrina) And evidently the lush fresh grass plains in south Australia greatly reminded the English gentry of ol' Mother England so much that this was mentioned in dispatches.

It wasn't natural of course, our First nations people applied good land management. They burnt and cultivated it as a way to attract feed and harvest wallaby, kangaroo emu eggs etc. And only killed the last ones to leave the field quietly, so the other animals didn't get frightened, and they kept on coming back.

Good management is when an assessed situation is able to be maintained. that mob did it for over 60,000 years and we still think we know how to manage wildlife better.

It hasn't taken long for a people who lived inside castle gates and communities and never ventured into the forest to change things here in Australia. My mother's name was Cook and yep evidently, I'm a rellie, so I can chat about this as much as anybody.

Its an EXTREMELY well talked about topic and I only contribute my perspective without getting into a debate about it because Only all of us telling a few of those willing to listen could fix it but THEY have to ask. as they most certainly could never be told they are at fault. Even the evidence of countless follies over generations is not enough.

Very poor management over consecutive generations without paying heed to ancient wisdom about where things best grow, and countless illogical campaign decisions since then continue to undermine our society and only commonsense can fix it.

I know this is about protect the wildlife, but we have 140,000 homeless Australians and today was the first time "HOST a migrant worker and be paid" was seen on MSN.

They'll need to do that as 600,000 new Australians are evidently expected. I have no issue at all with that as we are supposedly the lucky country, but I do question why some of the 140,00 Australians weren't offered the same deal first.

It's a funny world politics. everything is either aimed at gaining power and influence, or at holding power and influence, while the nation watches and waits what happens.

The thing is all one mob has to do is govern by the will of the people, and not only through corporate lobbying and why would any of us ever want them to leave?

It sure seems like that would be a pretty simple way to run a country, to folks like me.
 
If only our governments would realise dingoes actually protect native animals especially from foxes and feral cats. Let's stop killing dingoes and turn our disgusting repuation around.
 
In today's fast-paced world, it's easy to get distracted by the numerous technological advancements and social changes that have come to define the modern era.

After all, just in the last 60 years, we've witnessed incredible achievements such as our first steps on the moon, the invention of the internet, and monumental strides in terms of rights for minorities, women, and even animals.



However, it's important not to overlook some of the more concerning developments taking place right on our doorstep, especially when it comes to the alarming rate of animal extinctions seen in Australia in recent decades.

Since the 1960s, an estimated 23 animal species have been wiped out of their home in Australia – a figure that's surely a cause for concern.

While many may instinctively point the finger at the nation's rampant land clearing and habitat destruction issues, surprisingly, this is not the main cause behind such extensive loss.


View attachment 20472
Invasive species were responsible for 17 of the 23 extinction events in the last six decades. Credit: Pixabay/pen_ash.



According to a recent report by the Invasive Species Council (ISC), 17 of these extinctions can, in fact, be attributed to the impact of invasive species.

With our globalised society and increased mobility of people and products, ISC warns that Australia may not be sufficiently prepared to deter a potential epidemic that could annihilate many more of our cherished native species.

'Mobility of people and products is accelerating madly — it's getting out of control,' warns report author Tim Low. 'Look at the way COVID-19 jumped out of nowhere and took over the world. That can happen with any kind of disease affecting any kind of plant or animal.'



To grasp the severity of the situation, let's take a closer look at some of the animals we've sadly lost since the 1960s. Among the 23 total probable wild extinctions, three species still exist but have completely vanished from their original wild habitats.

Does this mean we should completely disregard habitat loss as a factor in their extinction? Absolutely not, states Mr Low.

While habitat loss remains a significant threat to numerous iconic Aussie species – such as the koala, which was listed as endangered in 2022 – Mr Low argues that a focus on biosecurity measures is vital in preventing further extinction.


Australia currently faces several areas of concern in regard to invasive species, including risks associated with bird flu and the illegal importation of crayfish. Such invasions not only endanger animals but also threaten the vitality of entire plant species, with 16 types of plants across NSW and Queensland reportedly at immediate risk of extinction due to invasive pathogens.

However, it's not all doom and gloom. By working to rebalance our focus on biosecurity and implementing sufficient protection measures for agriculture and our vulnerable flora and fauna, we may still have a chance at preserving Australia's unique biodiversity.

In order to have a chance to do that, we must be prepared for the challenges posed by invasive species and other factors like climate change, which Mr Low predicts will become the primary driver of extinction by the end of the century.

Key Takeaways

  • Since the 1960s, Australia has wiped out an estimated 23 animal species from their home ranges.
  • A new report found that invasive species were the cause of 17 animal extinctions, and Australia may not be prepared to prevent a new pandemic from wiping out more native species.
  • Habitat loss remains a critical threat to many iconic Australian species, including koalas, and there needs to be a focus on preventing biosecurity threats to wildlife.
  • Invasive species are expected to continue being the biggest driver of extinction in Australia until the end of the century, after which climate change may take over as the primary cause.



As Aussies, we must work together to raise awareness about the significant threats facing our native wildlife and to advocate for measures that help protect our unique ecosystems.

Through education, action, and maintaining an unwavering focus on the issues at hand, we can take control of this situation and help ensure the survival of the incredible array of plant and animal life that makes Australia so unique and special.

Remember, it's not just up to our government and scientists to tackle this problem – there's plenty we can do on an individual level to make a difference. So let's do our part by staying informed, spreading the word, and working together to protect and preserve our precious wildlife.


View attachment 20473
To prevent future extinction events, the report recommends a 'rebalancing' of biosecurity in Australia. Credit: Pexels/Valeriia Miller.



It's easy to become overwhelmed by the threats facing our wildlife, but we want to remind our members that small changes can make a big difference. Whether it's becoming an advocate for habitat conservation or learning more about animal issues, every bit counts.

If these aren't feasible for you at the moment, we encourage you to share this story with your friends and family instead. We also welcome you to share your thoughts in the comment section below and initiate a conversation. We value your perspective and, as always, would be delighted to hear your opinions on this issue!
 
WORLD WIDE AUSTRALIA HAS THE HIGHEST EXSTINCTION RATE OF NATIVE ANIMALS & ANIMALS ONLY FOUND IN AUSTRALIA !!!!!!! AND AUSSIE REFUSE TO CARE OR DO ANYTHING ABOUT THESE EXSTINCTIONS
Terri
Wildlife Rescue & Care
 
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Thirst is what wipes out a lot of animals during drought Poisons instead of harvesting pests is another.

The only reason that crayfish would be imported is the massive fees our crayfishing industry (and our fishing industry in general) have to pay to secure a lively hood.

I worked on South Molle island and was surprised to discover that the reef fish presented to the tourists on holiday resorts daily were not locally caught, as it was evidently too expensive.

I have personally seen (without binoculars two Taiwanese fishing trawlers working at sundown off the coast in Busselton. I reported it to the maritime authority while they were still working nets and the operator wasn't fazed at all. One hour I waited, till the boats left.

Two Indonesian fishing trawlers working about a thousand yards of our coast never made the news. I could very clearly see the outlines of many people moving backwards and forwards on vessels that didn't come from here.

It is mr management and not just mismanagement of our nations affairs that is consistently the one thing that is responsible. The word management, I thought was linked to the word government, however evidently not..

Give them all yet another significant pay rise for doing such an across-the-board sterling Job. It was privateers remember that originally invaded and the colon-ising began...looking at what was here and why did it all so quickly disappear.

Talk about the eradication of species, just wait till the hundreds of thousands of iron pipe infrastructure that has been drilled through our nations fresh water supply for C.S.G gas for countries, that refuse to do this on their own home soil, oxidizes. Yet another NUGGET of Wisdumb by people in authority (privateers) with pomp in their hearts, cash in their eyes and little thought for any long-term consequences...
 
If only our governments would realise dingoes actually protect native animals especially from foxes and feral cats. Let's stop killing dingoes and turn our disgusting repuation around.

Spot on. Our Apex predator the dingo does indeed protect our little guys. The dingo fence is a prime example of poor decision-making. The land on the Western side of that longest fence in the world is home to heaps more small native animals and vegetation that stays greener longer after rain than on the Eastern side.

The dingoes hunt feral cats and keep roo numbers down. Roos in unculled numbers eat all the soft shrubs and grass and only leave the woody shrubs. No habitat left to protect the little guys. So the fence didn't just keep dingoes away from sheep, it changed the whole landscape, impacting many animals.
 
Australia has always had a HORRFIC rate of animal extinction since the Pommies INVADE it !!!!!!!
And MOST of it's residents DO NOT CARE !!!
Australia is a GLOBAL LEADER in wildlife extinction.
Australia’s wildlife losses not only impact people’s everyday enjoyment but also reduce our economic prosperity.

Terri; Wildlife Rescue and Care
 
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