Image: Sophie Arnall The Range to Reef fauna team has recently completed a comprehensive investigation into the distribution and abundance of this interesting endemic survivor on Christmas Island. Although now listed as Endangered under the EPBC Act this large arboreal gecko continues to persist as the last native reptile found outside captivity on the island. Building on from the important ecological studies undertaken by PhD researcher Melissa Wynn, and with the co-operation of Parks Australia, Range to Reef expanded the areas investigated to cover all major habitat types found on Christmas Island. The nocturnal nature of this species requires long hours of walking measured transects throu
Western Australia's new Biodiversity Conservation Act 2015 received assent on 21 September 2016. This Act replaces the very dated Wildlife Conservation Act 1950 and the Sandalwood Act 1929. The Act was passed following amendments in the Upper House. The new Act should integrate better with the Environmental Protection Act 1986 with respect to areas such as native vegetation clearing permits. It will have important implications for the taking of threatened species, and liability of company officers. Regulations to support the Act have yet to be developed and the official commencement date of the Act has yet to be proclaimed.
