30 trail cameras and half a million pictures later, researchers have finally photographed these rare animals in first-ever camera survey of Tasmanian island

Summary

Researchers deployed 30 motion-sensor cameras on Truwana island, capturing approximately half a million images over seven months. This first-ever camera survey of the island yielded rare footage of blonde echidnas, white-footed dunnarts, and the near-threatened Latham's Snipe. The survey highlights the island's biodiversity, potentially supported by its native vegetation, which has helped some species survive threats like habitat loss and predators.

Key points

• First camera survey on Truwana island captured rare wildlife.
• Footage included blonde echidnas, white-footed dunnarts, and Latham's Snipe.
• 30 cameras recorded about 500,000 images from November 2024 to May 2025.