Rare Aussie creatures photographed coming to surface for 'super cool' battle
Rare images show ordinarily shy marsupials engaging in a fierce battle in the early morning hours. While it's common to see kangaroos boxing each other, there's a reason we don't often see greater bilbies engaging in the same behaviour. There aren't many of them.
The pictures were taken at a predator-proof sanctuary created by Australian Wildlife Conservancy (AWC), which keeps small mammals safe from invasive cats and foxes. Dr Alexandra Ross, an ecologist who studies greater bilby behaviour, said the animals are so sparsely populated, it's uncommon to see two together.
'I find it exciting to have two in one shot, and then to have them fighting is super cool… they're showing a behaviour that would be normal, but we don't see it because they're so rare,' she told Yahoo News.
Bilbies can share ranges and warrens, but large numbers don't live together, and they are known to be territorial. At least one of the bilbies is a male, and so Ross and the AWC team believe the images may capture a territorial dispute.
'The greater bilby used to cover around 80 per cent of Australia, but its range has declined by 80 per cent. They're super rare, but they're not supposed to be. They're supposed to be a common species,' she said.
Before Europeans arrived in Australia, it would have been common to hear the sounds of greater bilbies throughout Central Australia, extending across to Adelaide and Perth. Today, their range is limited to isolated pockets of Western Australia and the Northern Territory.
'These two bilbies fighting should be a common sight outside your bedroom window, but we have to go to all this effort now so they can exist,' Ross said.
📸 Sad story behind viral image highlights Australia's invasive species crisis
😳 Grim discovery in abandoned fishing trap near popular track
🌏 Air crew makes exciting 'once-in-a-lifetime' discovery in outback
The footage was taken in the Northern Territory at Newhaven Wildlife Sanctuary, a 261,501 hectare property that's home to 14 species threatened with extinction.
Because native marsupials evolved without any evolutionary recognition of cats or foxes, in the wild, those that can't quickly learn are quickly killed. Inside the sanctuary, there is some evidence that their wary behaviour changes because they don't have to be on the lookout for introduced predators.
'Once you've got the cats and foxes out, you can bring back the native species that used to be in the area, and then they do spectacularly well.
'They're meant to be here, so as soon as you give them a chance, they do great.'
Love Australia's weird and wonderful environment? 🐊🦘😳 Get our new newsletter showcasing the week's best stories.
Hashtags
Try Our AI Features
Explore what Daily8 AI can do for you:
Comments
No comments yet...
Related Articles
Yahoo
3 days ago
- Yahoo
Drinking water map shows where toxic ‘forever chemicals' are found in the UK
Traces of a chemical that researchers fear could harm human reproduction have been found in dozens of Britain's rivers, a new study has warned. Researchers from York University found trifluoroacetic acid (TFA) in 98% of locations in 32 rivers in England, Wales, Scotland and Northern Ireland. TFA is one of a family of more than 14,000 man-made chemicals known as perfluoroalkyl and polyfluoroalkyl substances (PFAs), which have been used since the 1940s in everything from waterproof clothing to non-stick frying pans, as well as cosmetics and food packaging. The chemicals can accumulate in people's bodies (as well as in the water we drink) and can lead to serious health issues including cancer, liver damage and harm to unborn children. The UK government launched an inquiry this year into the issue - but campaigners say not enough is being done. Natalie Sims, from the Royal Society of Chemistry, told Yahoo News: 'There is more that could be being done, and that is why we are calling for action.' The Royal Society of Chemistry has mapped levels of the chemicals in Britain's drinking waters, and is calling for the public to take action to raise the issue. 'The public can be really powerful, and I think we have seen that when we look at tackling sewage overflows, that's really been pushed up the government agenda, because the public is also pushing for it," Sims says. 'That's why we really want to take action now, and that's why there's been much more push for it from organisations like ourselves or others. In addition to developing alternative materials, we urgently need stronger, more robust controls to prevent further pollution and reduce our exposure to harmful substances in the environment.' PFAs are a group of thousands of chemicals that don't occur in nature and are extremely hard to get rid of. They also also toxic, even in small quantities. They have been used in manufacturing and consumer products since the 1940s. 'We've used them so extensively, really since the 1940s they found our way in so many different consumer products," Sims explains. "For example, in your waterproof coat, anything waterproofing, school children's clothing, anything stain resistant. PFAs have some desirable properties, and are so good at what they do in terms of that heat resistance, that water and oil resistance, stain resistance, durability, often a lot of the things that makes it very useful in products. 'Because they're so persistent, they obviously found their way into the environment, into our food, into our water. They are also used in jet engines, medical devices, refrigeration systems, the construction industry and electrical devices. In the environment, they can last for extremely long periods: hundreds or even thousands of years. They also accumulate in human bodies. 'Forever chemicals' have been phased out of some consumer products - but are still used in products such as non-stick frying pans and some packaging, although manufacturers tend to be reluctant to say exactly where they are used. The dangers attached to PFAs often comes when they are used industrially, or when products containing PFAs are disposed of inadequately, meaning they enter the water supply. In the UK, PFAs are most likely to be found in water near industrial sites including airports and areas that produce products which use PFAs. The Royal Society of Chemistry warns that contamination is likely near landfill sites where liquid contaminated with PFAs can leak out of the site, or near incinerators which often are not hot enough to fully burn chemicals can also be found near where firefighting foam is routinely used, including airports, military sites and fire-training areas. Some airports, including Heathrow, have already switched to using foam which does not contain PFAs. Wastewater sites can also leech PFAs into the water. The chemicals have been linked to serious health issues including liver damage, some cancers and harm to unborn children, thyroid disease and fertility issues. Large-scale studies have shown that PFAs in drinking water correlates with increased levels of cancer in multiple parts of the body. A review in the journal eBioMedicine linked PFAs exposure to decreased efficiency in vaccines, premature birth, increased severity of COVID-19, along with cancer, reduced immune function and developmental delays in children. Water companies in England and Wales must monitor and regulate 48 types of PFAs, despite there being thousands of varieties, with many remaining untested. But this Drinking Water Inspectorate ruling actually goes further than EU legislation. Individual PFAs concentrations in drinking water cannot exceed 100 nanograms per litre (ng/L). This is 10 times higher than the Drinking Water Inspectorate's own 'low risk' threshold of 10 ng/L. In the US, there are limits of 4 ng/L for each of PFOS and PFOA, two of the most common PFAs, and the EU states that 20 widespread PFAs must collectively not exceed 100 ng/L. The Royal Society of Chemistry has called for new limits on the amounts of PFAs permissible in drinking water. Specifically the RSC has called for a new limit of 10 ng/L for individual PFAs. The RSC has also called for stricter controls over the sources of PFAs including in industrial discharges, with a national chemicals regulator to monitor and regulate discharges. Sims says: 'An RSC survey of more than 4,000 UK adults, carried out by YouGov in August showed nine in ten Britons believe it's 'very important' to keep PFAS out of our food, water and environment. The public do want action on this, which I think is really powerful when it comes to speaking to the government. 'In terms of industry, having them push to develop alternatives, because they've had these chemicals that they've been allowed to use for so long, in terms of because they're so good at what they do, it's trying to transition that away into more, safer and sort of sustainable alternatives. Sims says that it's also vital that British people have a clearer picture of the chemicals in the water they drink. She says: 'PFAS are contained in many products and ingredients that are made or imported to the UK for use across many industries. However, we do not have a full picture of how PFAS enter and move within the supply chain. 'It's likely that the exposure you have on the everyday is going to be quite low, but it's that long term build up where, for one thing, it can be really challenging to pinpoint where those adverse effects could come from.'
New York Post
3 days ago
- New York Post
Summer creates the ‘perfect storm' for this painful issue — especially if you hit the beach
Summer is here — and according to one OBGYN, there's more to fear. If you're part of the half of the population with a vagina, the hottest months of the year create a much higher risk for a very common — but extremely uncomfortable — issue. Fortunately, Dr. Carly Ross broke down some easy steps that can help you prevent a flare-up. Advertisement 3 Ross called summer the 'perfect storm' for UTIs. Alvov – 'Summer activities create the perfect storm for urinary tract infection (UTI) development,' Ross, a Winx Health Advisor, told The Post, 'The combination of heat, humidity, and dehydration weakens your immune system, making it harder to fight off infections.' UTIs begin when bacteria enter the urethra and multiply, infecting the urinary tract. UTIs develop due to genetic disposition, sexual activity, hormonal imbalances, medical conditions, compromised immunity, or poor hygiene. 'E. coli, which typically lives harmlessly in your intestinal tract, can become problematic if it reaches your urinary tract, a journey made easier by summer activities,' said Ross. Advertisement A 2023 study estimated that meat contaminated with E. coli causes around half a million UTIs in the US each year. UTIs are 30 times more common in female populations due to urethra length and anal proximity. Symptoms of a UTI include the urgent need to urinate, a burning sensation when peeing, pressure or pain in the lower abdomen or pelvic region, cloudy or blood-tinged urine, and urine with a strong odor. Advertisement 3 A 2023 study estimated that meat contaminated with E. Coli causes around half a million UTIs in the US each year. Getty Images How to prevent UTIs this summer According to Ross, certain preventative measures can save you from the ultimate summer bummer. 'Incorporate daily habits like drinking water to flush out bacteria, as well as maintaining urinary hygiene by wiping from front to back after using the bathroom,' said Ross. Advertisement Holding your pee is another common culprit of UTIS. Studies have shown that holding it for too long can cause the bacteria responsible for the infection to multiply — so if you need to go, let it flow! She also recommends limiting caffeine and alcohol, as both can irritate the bladder. A common summer sin is lounging around in a wet bathing suit, a habit Ross says can wreak havoc on your health. 'Spending extended periods in wet bathing suits creates the perfect breeding ground for bacteria. Opt for clean, breathable cotton underwear and change promptly after swimming or excessive sweating.' While some experts maintain that going commando, especially at night, is primo for vaginal health, if you must opt for underwear, Ross urges women to go for a clean, 100% cotton pair to prevent bacterial growth and keep moisture levels balanced. 3 A common summer sin is lounging around in a wet bathing suit, a habit Ross says can wreak havoc on your health. New Africa – Because sexual activity increases UTI risk, Ross recommends urinating as soon as possible after intercourse to 'flush out any bacteria that may have entered the urinary tract.' What to do if you have a UTI Advertisement While there are myriad treatment options for a UTI, Ross warned that many mask symptoms but fail to address the infection. 'Cranberry supplements and juice help ease the pain, but ultimately, UTIs need a proper diagnosis and Rx treatment to eliminate the infection. There are now at-home tests with clear digital results that can connect you directly with a doctor for immediate prescription to a local pharmacy. If the pattern continues, you should see a medical professional in person.' UTIs are among the most common infections worldwide, affecting 50% to 60% of women at some point in their lives, and they seem to be becoming more prevalent. The disease burden rose by more than 68% between 1990 and 2019, recent research found. Advertisement Antibiotics are the primary cure for UTIs as they eliminate the bacteria that cause the infection. Unfortunately, studies indicate that the bacteria that cause UTIs are becoming more resistant to antibiotics, making these infections more dangerous than ever. Part of this resistance can be attributed to meat consumption, as animals treated with antibiotics can develop resistance to those drugs that's transferred to humans. Shop This Story Winx Health Vaginal Health Probiotic Keep your privates happy with Winx Health Vaginal Health Probiotic. OBGYN-approved and formulated for a balanced pH, it's FSA/HSA eligible and comes in discrete shipping, too. $29.00 $28.00 Buy Now Winx Health Liners Value Pack Cover yourself — and your favorite undies. The Winx Health Liners keep you comfortable while treating yeast infections and UTIs, plus they are soft, breathable and hypoallergenic. $32.00 $16.00 Buy Now Winx Health Vaginal Wellness Kit This Vaginal Wellness Kit from Winx Health comes with a 2-month supply of our Vaginal Health Probiotic and UTI Daily Protection Supplement. With an almost perfect 5-star rating, customers praise it for its effectiveness. see price New York Post may be compensated and/or receive an affiliate commission if you buy something through our links.
Hamilton Spectator
5 days ago
- Hamilton Spectator
Recognizing the importance of Indigenous history on National Indigenous Peoples' Day
Although not a statutory holiday in Nunavut, as it is in Yukon or the NWT, National Indigenous Peoples' Day is recognized on June 21 each year - a day that deserves widespread recognition across Canada, says Pam Langan, the head librarian and business administrator at the Pitquhirnikkut Ilihautiniq Kitikmeot Heritage Society in Cambridge Bay. 'We should be celebrated,' Langan said. 'We were here first. We helped the white people get settled. We welcomed them onto the land. You know, we taught them our ways.' Langan said the history of what happened to the Inuit and native population should be taught. 'And put money towards helping the people from what people did,' she said of the residential school system. 'And teach the exact history. Down in Alberta for example, a young fellow, he got sick, so he was put in the hospital. His family went on the trapline and Fish and Wildlife tainted their food supply on the trapline and he lost his whole family. 'That information is in the University of Alberta in Calgary archives,' she said. 'That is the kind of history they should be teaching, so that the people understand what the Inuit and the natives, what happened to them and what happened to their lifestyle,' she said. Langan went on to say alcohol introduced by the Europeans to the Indigenous people became, and still is, a problem. 'The Europeans, they had alcohol in their system for many years, for thousands of years. So that enzyme has been in their system, in their body, whereas the Inuit and natives never had that enzyme to be able to fight that. So it's like a disease almost,' she said. 'So, if they want to celebrate, they need to, they need to give the history - of why we are like that and why we struggle.' Family history Langan recounted a story from her own family history pertaining to her grandparents. 'They were both in residential school. They (later) lived on the reserve when they came to take my mom and her siblings, but my grandfather met them at the door with a shotgun and said, 'You're not taking my kids.' 'And then he enfranchised, he sold his rights as a native in order for them to get an education off the reserve. 'So as soon as he enfranchised, he got kicked off the reserve because he was no longer a native,' Langan said. 'He had cattle on the reserve, but he had to go to the Indian agent to ask to kill one of his cattle in order to feed his family. Indian agents said no, so him and his cousin, they shot and killed a cow in the middle of the night so they wouldn't get caught. 'And if they had been caught, they would have been hung for his own cattle,' Langan said. 'So this is the kind of thing that should be taught.' 'The government did exactly what they wanted. They wanted the Inuit, they wanted the Indians, to be dependent on them,' she added. 'But that is the history that should be taught, not the war of 1812,' she said. Another part of history for the Inuit and Indigenous peoples was when many were taken off the land they knew and relocated close to the North Pole to establish sovereignty, she said. 'You take a group of people who were at one of their gatherings, and you just grab a whole pile of them and put them somewhere and expect them to survive? No. And then you kill all their dogs in the 60s because they can't go anywhere?' she said of the history of many Indigenous people. In terms of revitalizing and learning the Inuit languages, Langan said there are now several apps available online to help with pronunciation of various words and syllables, which is very helpful, and another way to recognize and honour the Indigenous population. 'The Heritage Center has been doing lots with the language,' she noted. Langan reiterated that it is important to recognize Indigenous Peoples' Day in Nunavut and across Canada. 'I think the Indigenous People should be celebrated, you know, because of all the hardships they've gone through and still are here today.' Error! Sorry, there was an error processing your request. There was a problem with the recaptcha. Please try again. You may unsubscribe at any time. By signing up, you agree to our terms of use and privacy policy . This site is protected by reCAPTCHA and the Google privacy policy and terms of service apply. Want more of the latest from us? Sign up for more at our newsletter page .
