A survey of the marsupials of New South Wales

Abstract

The topography, vegetation, and climate of New South Wales are described from the point of view of distribution and status of marsupials within the State, and a systematic account of the species is given. Of these, 42 per cent, fall into the categories of presumed extinct or rare; this decline in numbers shows a correlation with a decreasing density of vegetational cover, ranging from nil in rain-forest to 43 per cent, in open plains country. Possible factors involved in the decline are discussed, the most important being the destruction or alteration of the habitat as a result of white settlement. It is difficult to suggest a useful programme for the conservation of most of the rare species, but it is thought that a National Park where woodland species may be preserved and where visitors would be assured of seeing them, might be practicable.