Threatened Invertebrates of Western Strezleckis

 

Working alongside South Gippsland Landcare Network (SGLN) and DELWP, this project aims to protect Giant Gippsland Earthworms and three species of burrowing crayfish within the Strezlecki region (Warragul, Strzelecki, and Narracan)

Monitoring demonstration sites were set up in 2014 to trail new revegetation techniques for the protection of Giant Gippsland Earthworms. Standard revegetation techniques aren’t always suitable for Giant Gippsland Earthworms as the growing trees reduce soil moisture which is critical for earthworm survival. These sites were monitored in 2019, looking at groundwater, and at the presence of Giant Gippsland Earthworms (by Dr Beverly Van Praagh). The Giant Gippsland Earthworms were found to be thriving at the sites, indicating the modified revegetation method is working well.

 
 

SGLN and LCLN also have funding available to assist landholders with Giant Gippsland Earthworms or Warragul, Narracan or Strzelecki Burrowing Crayfish on their properties to protect the habitat of these threatened species.

Landholders who think they have Giant Gippsland Earthworms or Warragul, Narracan or Strzelecki Burrowing Crayfish on their properties have also been invited to submit an expression of interest for funding for on-ground works such as fencing or modified revegetation to protect these species.

This project was funded with the support of the Victorian Government. 

 

 

  • If you are out wandering along the creeks and slopes of South and West Gippsland, don’t be startled if you hear a loud, gurgling sound like this beneath your feet! It is most likely a Giant Gippsland Earthworm!! These creatures have draw the attention of the likes of Sir David Attenborough just to drop a name in there ;)

    Check out the Giant Gippsland Earthworms website to explore these amazing creatures!

  • While the Giant Gippsland Earthworm is arguably one of Gippsland’s most famous threatened species, there is another mysterious critter lurking underground. It is rarely seen, never heard, but leaves signs of activity while you are sleeping. It belongs to a group of specialised crayfish known as burrowing crayfish. The Warragul Burrowing Crayfish, Engaeus sternalis is thought to be one of the rarest species of burrowing crays in Australia. It is only found in a small area of approximately 20 square kilometres in West Gippsland. Check out the Threatened Burrowing Crayfish website for more information.

  • Working alongside SGLN has allowed the program to reach far and wide! Check out their website for more information.

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