Quest for elusive quendas

Eagle-eyed wildlife spotters in Busselton and Dunsborough are contributing to a survey on elusive marsupial the quenda.

The World Wildlife Fund launched the joint research project with the Department of Environment and Conservation to learn more about the nocturnal animal, also known as the bandicoot.

More than 1000 sightings were reported Statewide, with results showing quendas in decline in some areas, possibly due to loss of native vegetation.

Dunsborough retirees Gary and Diane Bowler used to see quendas regularly on their semirural block, but they have become less common recently.

“It surprised me to learn that 44 per cent of quenda deaths are due to road kill – I expected more would be because of predators,” Mr Bowler said.

“I think motorists should take care when driving, especially in areas where there is a lot of wildlife, and slow down.”

The WWF survey found introduced species such as cats, dogs and foxes were responsible for 30 per cent of quenda deaths, while drowning in swimming pools caused 16 per cent.

Dunsborough wildlife lover Ken Page said one quenda visited his garden regularly.

“I put out bird seed and biscuits and he comes and has his share,” Mr Page said.

“I think in general the wildlife in this area is in good shape. It appears to be coping with the increased population.”