Threats to Wildlife
Tasmania’s native wildlife faces a range of threats, from habitat loss and introduced species to disease, roads and human disturbance. Explore the pressures affecting native animals and their habitats, and the challenges involved in protecting them.
Wildlife Injured on Our Roads
Tasmania’s roads pose a significant threat to native wildlife, with animals regularly injured or killed by passing vehicles. Roads also divide habitats and can make movement between feeding and breeding areas dangerous. Explore why wildlife is particularly vulnerable on Tasmanian roads, the measures being used to reduce collisions and what drivers can do to help protect native animals.
Disease & Biosecurity
Wildlife diseases can have serious consequences for individual animals and entire populations, particularly when threatened species are affected. From Devil Facial Tumour Disease to emerging infectious diseases and biosecurity risks, Tasmania’s wildlife faces a range of health challenges. Explore how diseases spread, their effects on native species and the measures used to monitor and manage wildlife health.
Poisoning & Rodenticides
Poisons used to control rodents and other unwanted animals can also harm Tasmania’s native wildlife. Predators and scavengers may be exposed when they consume poisoned prey, while other chemicals can affect animals directly or contaminate their habitats. Explore the risks associated with rodenticides and other poisons, their effects on wildlife and ways to reduce unintended harm.
Habitat Loss & Fragmentation
Habitat loss is one of the major pressures affecting Tasmania’s native wildlife. Land clearing, development and changes to natural environments can reduce the food, shelter and breeding sites animals depend on. Explore how habitat loss and fragmentation affect wildlife populations, why connections between habitats matter and the challenges involved in protecting and restoring natural environments.
Human Disturbance & Climate Change
Human activity and a changing climate are placing additional pressures on Tasmania’s wildlife and natural environments. Artificial lighting, noise, recreation and disturbance can affect animal behaviour, while changing temperatures and weather patterns influence habitats and food availability. Explore how these pressures affect native species and the challenges they create for wildlife conservation across Tasmania.
Invasive & Introduced Species
Introduced animals, plants and other organisms can have significant effects on Tasmania’s native wildlife and ecosystems. Some prey on native species, compete for resources or alter the habitats animals depend on, while others introduce new diseases. Explore how invasive species become established, their impacts on Tasmania’s biodiversity and the measures used to prevent and manage these threats.
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