Monitoring the Endangered wiliji (Petrogale lateralis kimberleyensis) on Nyikina Mangala Country (Western Australia) using camera traps

Context Nyikina Mangala Traditional Owners regard the Endangered wiliji (Petrogale lateralis kimberleyensis), and the rocky landscape it inhabits, as significant cultural entities. A cross-cultural partnership was established in 2012 between the Nyikina Mangala Rangers and WWF-Australia to look after the wiliji. In the aspect of the project described here, camera traps were used to investigate wiliji presence and condition. As one of the biocultural indicators of rocky country health, rangers wanted to estimate wiliji numbers to evaluate the effectiveness of threat management actions implemented to heal rocky country, such as right-way fire and feral predator control. Specialist data modelling support was provided by co-authored scientists to here produce the methods and results of this study within the broader context of assessing and helping to guide management of this important species. Aims To inform and refine the Nyikina Mangala Rangers' wiliji management, through interpretation of a camera trap monitoring program. Methods Since 2012, Nyikina Mangala Rangers have collected camera trap data across three rocky outcrops on Country. Using these data, we estimated probabilities of detecting wiliji and co-occurring mammals at these sites. We calculated relative abundance indices for wiliji and used unmarked spatial capture recapture models to estimate abundance at one site (Malarabba) in three different years. Key results Detections of wiliji, langurru (Trichosurus vulpecula), and jamandi (Osphranter robustus) varied across the three outcrops. Between 18 and 45 nights were needed at different sites to be 95% certain that wiliji were not present. Our median wiliji abundance estimates at Malarabba were 75 (2018), 160 (2021), and 108 (2023). These corresponded with relative abundance indices. Lower abundance was detected following fire that burned more than 75% of Malarabba in November 2017 and 2023. Three wiliji predators, namely, dingo (Canis familiaris), feral cat (Felis catus), and red fox (Vulpes vulpes), were detected. Conclusions Abundance estimates for Malarabba fell either side of the only published estimate for this population (similar to 100 individuals). Accuracy could be improved by determining specific model priors from wiliji movement data. Interpretation of these data have helped support and refine management. Implications Cross-cultural partnerships between Indigenous organisations, and non-Indigenous researchers can successfully deliver multiple objectives if carefully guided by Indigenous priorities. Camera traps present some key advantages for monitoring and managing wiliji (e.g. simultaneous collection of data on predators and competitors). This approach will benefit long-term conservation of wiliji, aligned with Traditional Owner aspirations to look after rocky country.