Bettongs Return to Dirk Hartog Island | Adelaide News

Scientists are bringing back bettongs—tiny, rat-kangaroo-like marsupials— to Dirk Hartog Island after nearly 400 years, aiming to restore the ecosystem to its pre-European state. To ensure success, researchers analyzed the animals’ poop for fungal DNA to confirm the island’s food sources were intact after damage from invasive species like feral goats. These bettongs, vital ecosystem engineers, are already thriving, and next up: reintroducing boodies and a native predator. It’s a bold, long-term mission proving that with science and dedication, nature can be healed—one hop at a time. Listen in comfort:Get a discount on a Soli Pillow: http://solipillow.com/discount/dnn. Advertise on DNN:[email protected] This is an automated, high-level news summary based on public reporting.Report issues to [email protected]. View sources & latest updates:https://sources.thednn.ai/4a622569200cf657