Threatened species

Australia’s biodiversity is currently in decline – more than 1,700 species and ecological communities are known to be threatened and at risk of extinction. Many of these species are found nowhere else in the world.

We are keeping a close eye on what we can do to stop and turn around this decline, to protect the diverse array of native flora and fauna for which South East Queensland is known.

In the small footprint of South East Queensland alone, we have over 2400 native plants and 6000 native animals.

Sadly, some of these unique species are threatened and at risk of extinction.

There are many reasons why this can happen. Changes to the land and native habitat and waterways as a result of human activity has put increasing pressure on our habitats and the species that rely on them.

Just some of the key threats to species are:

• Habitat loss, degradation and fragmentation.
• Invasive species.
• Altered fire regimes.
• Unsustainable use and management of natural resources.
• Changes to the aquatic environment and water flows.
• Climate change.

Over the last 200 years, many plants and animals have become extinct. For others whose survival is threatened, a range of management and conservation measures are in place.
Australia is proud of its biodiversity, home to between 600,000 and 700,000 species, many of which are found nowhere else in the world. About 84% of plants, 83% of mammals, and 45% of birds are only found in Australia.