IS it a platypus? An otter? A mouse?
The little-known rakali has been mistaken for all of these things but is Australia’s own native water rat – and right now it needs your help.
A new citizen survey has been launched to learn more about the rakali in the South West.
WWF Australia and the WA Department of Parks and Wildlife called for residents to report sightings in The Rakali Community Survey before March 31.
One Margaret River resident said she used to see about three water rats each week when she lived on Ashton Street 30 years ago.
“It was mainly bush there and they used to be in our bathroom and laundry,” the woman said.
“We just thought they were normal rats until we spoke to other people about them.
“I haven’t seen one since I moved out of that house.”
While not yet on the threatened species list, populations of water rats have declined in Australia over recent decades and they are now a protected species in Western Australia.
WWF project officer Dr Sabrina Trocini said the most recent sighting reported in Augusta-Margaret River was in 2013.
That’s the only recent sighting we’ve had. I was quite surprised.
- WWF's Dr Sabrina Trocini on Margaret River's last rakali sighting from 2013
It sadly involved a dead rakali near Ellensbrook Creek.
“That’s the only recent sighting we’ve had,” she said.
“I was quite surprised.”
Dr Trocini encouraged people to report all sightings – past and recent – through the survey.
“We hope to get hundreds of extra pairs of eyes on the ground and the water to help us get a better understanding of where they live and what threats they face,” she said.
“Because of their preferred habitat, fishermen have a very high chance on spotting this animal.
“The marron fishing season has just started so we would love to hear from any marron fisher that might have spotted rakali or evidence of their presence during this or past summers.”
Cape to Cape Catchments Group co-ordinator Caroline Walker spread word of the survey, stating it would help understand the flora and fauna of the Margaret River region.
She said the rakali would likely be found near streams, rivers or wetlands.
“Our group is particularly interested in protection of our valuable rivers and streams and knowing more about the mammals which inhabit these areas will assist us to better protect their habitats,” Ms Walker said.
Dr Trocini added that the rakali was a very shy species, but also highly intelligent.
“The rakali is one of the few native species that has learned to successfully prey on introduced cane toads - over east - by flipping the toads on their back and so avoiding their poisonous glands,” she said.
WWF will also be organising an intensive survey in Margaret River region.
People interested in volunteering can contact Sabrina via email to rakali@wwf.org.au or phone 08 6231 0223.
