Wrin members were very fortunate to recently take part in a mini field trip with phascogales expert Karen Thomas. Karen is a former zoologist and Mandurang resident who noticed phascogales living in her area. 

These delightful native creatures are sadly vulnerable due to habitat loss. In particular, along with other native arboreal species such as sugar gliders, rely on tree hollows for nesting. Extensive land clearing has resulted in loss of trees and homes for these animals. In order to preserve the local population Karen has co-ordinated the installation of numerous nesting boxes in the area to ensure their survival into the future. She also carries out regular inspections and monitoring of the boxes to determine the size of the population.

Karen has also carried out a number of studies to determine the ideal types of boxes and temperatures that would best ensure that the population continues to thrive.

Wrin accompanied Karen on the inspection of some of these boxes off Tannery Lane and were delighted to observe both, and see evidence of, sugar gliders and phascogales using the boxes and on occasions even at the same time.

After the field trip we ended our day at Karen’s beautiful property on Tannery Lane for coffee and also to observe 2 wonderful power owls who have taken up residence on the property.

It was a wonderful day enjoyed by all who attended. A huge thank you to Karen Thomas for her time and the amazing work she is doing.

Michelle Mead