Cameras bolster dog and dingo data collection
Posted: September 27th, 2022
Nyangumarta rangers have received a major boost to their resources for monitoring animals on Country, after a successful grant application to the Federal Department of Agriculture, Fisheries and Forestry, worth about $20,000.
They now have 30 new Reconyx remote cameras for a data collection project on wild dogs and dingoes in the Nyangumarta native title determination area, working in partnership with the University of New South Wales, Central Queensland University and Taronga Conservation Society.
The rangers will deploy a set of 30 camera traps in a grid pattern to assess the spatial distribution of wild dogs/dingoes and their impact on the landscape, both in coastal areas and inland.
Rangers are trained in using the camera traps and a small group are also experienced in analysing sensor camera data.
Along with improving the scientific knowledge about wild dogs, dingoes and feral cats in the region, the project will also help to develop the capability of Nyangumarta rangers in delivering fee-for-service work in areas such as biosecurity surveillance and wildlife monitoring.
Nyangumarta rangers is a program operating with support from YMAC’s Land and Sea Management unit.
Nyangumarta rangers Ayesha Moss, left, Lisa Toby, Roberta Hunter, Kiarna Badal, Eddina Badal, Kerri Hunter, Lynnette Wilridge, Vernon Badal and Keithan Toby with the new cameras. Picture: Jake Muller