Mortality and survivorship of the quokka (Setonix brachyurus) (Macropodidae : Marsupialia) in the northern jarrah forest of Western Australia

Abstract

The potential for the quokka (Setonix brachyurus (Quoy & Gaimard, 1830)), a threatened macropodid marsupial, to increase in abundance following the initiation of predator control was investigated by determining the cause of deaths of radio-collared individuals. Predation was identified as a major cause of death followed by road kills. The non-parametric Kaplan–Meier method modified for staggered entry of individuals was used to estimate survivorship. Although males and females were affected differently by each cause of mortality, their overall survivorship did not differ significantly. Individuals alive at the beginning of the 25-month study had a 61% chance of surviving to the end. This represented an 81% chance of surviving for 1 year. There was no significant difference in survivorship between adults and juveniles. Current rates of adult and juvenile survivorship should allow population recovery, although none has been evident. Pouch young mortality is hypothesised to have inhibited the anticipated quokka population increase since the initiation of predator control. The observed expulsion of pouch young by females when threatened may be a primary predator avoidance strategy.