Drying wetlands drive genetic decline in Victorian brolgas
Victorian brolgas' genetic variation has sharply declined and become distinct from northern populations.
A new Macquarie University study found that Victorian brolgas have lost genetic diversity and become distinct from stable northern populations. The birds can grow up to 1.5 metres tall and are listed as endangered in Victoria with numbers as low as 1,000.
Wetland loss and climate change are shrinking their habitat. Smaller populations in smaller areas reduces genetic mixing.
Less genetic variation means fewer birds carry traits that help survive extreme events. Wetland restoration projects across south-west Victoria and south-east South Australia have shown real promise.
Green Swamp recorded up to 250 brolgas at once. Each restored wetland makes a measurable difference for a species that Gunditjmara people have long considered a protector and totem.
- as low as 1,000
- Victorian brolga numbers
- up to 1.5 metres
- Brolga height
- 250 brolgas at once
- Green Swamp count
- Macquarie University
- Research source
Why it mattersThe genetic split makes Victorian brolgas more vulnerable if isolated from northern populations, which could threaten the isolated south-eastern group.
AustraliaVictoria's brolga population faces collapse without urgent habitat restoration. Wetland recovery projects across Victoria and South Australia offer a concrete path to recovery that communities are already pursuing.
✓ Claims checked against the source and corrected before publish. checked 1 h ago
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