Two new populations of an endangered reptile have been discovered in the State’s Midwest, renewing hope for the long-term survival of the species. Five western spiny-tailed skinks (Egernia stokesii badia) were found sheltering in hollow logs at two different sites during a survey at Karara Rangeland Park, 50km east of Morawa. A distinct feature of spiny-tailed skinks is their long rough scales which are very prickly to touch. They can live for more than 10 years and can grow up to nearly 30cm. Department of Parks and Wildlife nature conservation regional leader Anthony Desmond said the survey was undertaken to assist with planning future recreational activities in the area. “Although they are known from this general area no survey has ever been done at this…

Farmers have replanted 180ha of private property with native species at Tarin Rock in the southern Wheatbelt as part of a project to conserve biodiversity in the area. Parks and Wildlife Wheatbelt Region conservation officer Marissah Kruger said the Tarin Rock Priority Landscape Project had involved more than 60 conservation projects on private property over the past 15 years. “The Tarin Rock area, which covers 45,000ha, has a wide range of landscapes and remnant vegetation, including woodland, mallee and Kwongan heath, supporting a high diversity of native animals such as malleefowl, Carnaby’s cockatoos and red-tailed phascogales,” she said. “Local landholders have recognised these natural values, and have revegetated land with native species, while excluding stock to protect existing pockets of remnant vegetation. “To date, more…