The Wildlife Land Trust (WLT) program is a network of over 1,000 Australian property owners dedicated to habitat preservation.
Since 2007, the national movement has welcomed farmers, eco-tourism business owners, conservationists and other land owners who are committed to restoring and protecting their land in support of local wildlife. In total, the program spans 96,500 hectares of forests, deserts and bushland from every state in Australia.
Humane World for Animals, the organisation behind the major initiative, is a leader in animal protection, and was proud to welcome its thousandth member to the Australian network this year.
Fighting for flora and fauna
Australia is a country rich in biodiversity. From the rolling sands of the desert to the crashing waves of the coast, it is home to 386 native mammal species, 90 per cent of which are endemic, and 850 native bird species, 45 per cent of which are endemic. In fact, we’re one of only 18 megadiverse countries on Earth, collectively spanning less than 10 per cent of the planet’s surface but home to 70 per cent of its species.
Despite this, 100 Australian endemic species have gone extinct since European colonisation in 1788. Every year, more than one million native animals are killed under government issued licences.
“Australia is home to some of the world’s richest areas of biodiversity and unique flora and fauna, but they’re increasingly at risk from habitat fragmentation and climate change, as well as pressures from rapid urban development and authorised wildlife destruction,” says Wildlife Land Trust Specialist Louisa Bartels.
“Protecting our diverse habitats is simply essential for conserving biodiversity. Private landholders can play an important role by preserving habitat on their land and enhancing connectivity through wildlife corridors.”
The WLT program builds a community united by a shared commitment to conservation. Members are encouraged to offer knowledge and seek inspiration from like-minded landholders.
The challenges facing conservationists can compound quickly, whether it’s more frequent extreme weather, damage from invasive species, or nearby development, so knowing they’re not alone in their mission for change can be extremely reassuring.
“We also provide conservation advice, access to restoration grants and educational resources to help landholders care for and enhance the natural values of their land,” adds Louisa.
A community for good
Since 2014, the 1,500 acre Inala Conservation Reserve has been part of the WLT community, and the newly acquired Orana Conservation Reserve joined last year. Both properties are home to rare and endangered species, including swift parrots, wedge-tailed eagles and forty-spotted pardalote.
“Native species and natural ecosystems are under more threat than ever before,” says Tonia Cochran, owner of Inala and Orana in Tasmania. “The species and habitats requiring protection are not restricted to national parks and reserves. In fact, privately owned properties are often critical to species survival.
“Private citizens can make a huge difference through habitat preservation of their land. I believe we have a responsibility to protect species that are under threat because of human actions.”
Tonia runs her ecotourism business, Inala Nature Tours, from both properties, and hosts events for local communities and schools to learn more about conservation. For her, the WLT is a valuable resource.
“Being part of the Wildlife Land Trust connects me to a national community of landowners who are passionate about protecting nature and inspire me to continue my conservation work,” she says.
“WLT also provides expert advice on a range of areas from habitat restoration to wildlife rescue, which is an invaluable free asset for landowners like me.”
Broader horizons
For Aussies wanting to experience these properties rich in native flora and fauna for themselves, the Sanctuaries You Can Stay Program connects environmentally conscious travellers with WLT sanctuaries, wildlife tours, citizen science programs and bush regeneration activities to get them involved in the conservation conversation.
The WLT program is always looking to expand into new corners of the country and bring its message of hope to new communities.
“The Wildlife Land Trust is continually growing, with a goal of expanding its membership to represent more regions and ecosystems, and to protect a greater diversity of species,” says Louisa.
“The more people involved, the more impact we can have. We’re exploring new ways to support and engage members, and plan to run many more in-person events and on-ground projects with our members in the future.”
To read about the incredible work of the Esperance Wildlife Hospital & Sanctuary, click here.