Behaviour and habitat use of Rakali at Goolwa and associated tributaries

The Rakali (Hydromys chrysogaster) is a semi-aquatic native mammal and is the only aquatic rodent of its kind in Australia, and yet there is a significant gap in biological and ecological knowledge on the species. 

This project addressed knowledge gaps for the species in our region, by exploring its distribution, habitat preferences, and foraging behaviour. The project helped to understand how human presence (e.g. infrastructure and housing in the Goolwa township) may affect Rakali’s habitat use compared to more natural areas (Currency Creek, Finniss River and Watchalunga Reserve). It investigated what habitat characteristics may be preferred by Rakali (e.g. features of wetlands with/without vegetation and human-made infrastructure). Observations of Rakali behaviour are being made which will provide inferences of diet, socialisation, population structure and reproductive behaviours. 

The project has provided new knowledge to better manage it in the region.