DFNCS Mammals of Dubbo

Dubbo links eastern Australian fauna with that of the semi arid inland region, and ecologists believe that prior to European occupation the combination of low open woodland to open forest, rocky ridges and permanent water would have sustained a considerable diversity of mammals. The number and diversity of these animals are now sadly depleted due to the loss of most of the areas original woodland and competition and predation by feral introduced species.

The Platypus is still recorded occasionally in the Macquarie and Talbragar Rivers, and Echidnas still roam the remaining woodland areas.

Koalas have been recently recorded in the vicinity of the Goonoo‚ State Conservation Area‚ to the north-east of the city. Small marsupials such as the Common Dunnart are still seen where suitable habitat remains.

In the trees it is possible to find Brush-tailed Possums, Sugar Gliders and Squirrel Gliders. In suitable habitat, Eastern Grey Kangaroos are found in high numbers. In smaller numbers are Red-necked Wallabies, Eastern Wallaroos and Swamp Wallabies.

There is still a wide range of bats in the region. Rodents such as the Brown Antechinus are seen in bushland and Water Rats are often seen in the rivers.

A walk through the remnant woodland that lines the Newell Highway south of the city reveals the presence of macropods (probably Eastern Grey Kangaroos and Swamp Wallabies), and there is evidence of resident Echidnas where ant heaps have been turned over. A search of the larger tree trunks will show that possums too live in this area. For the observant walker this area can be very rewarding, giving a glimpse of the region's fauna before settlement.

Further information about the region's native fauna plus introduced species can be found in the Society's book, The Dubbo Region a Natural History. much of which is updated on this website as it is currently out of print. Contact us for more information about local areas where native animals may be seen, such as Goonoo Forest.