Ever played Where’s Wally? My research is a bit like that… except instead of looking for a stripey jumper, I’m searching for rabbit poo!
I spend my time exploring Bruny Island, looking for clues left behind by one of Australia’s most successful invaders: European rabbits. Every poo, burrow, scratch mark, and nibble on plants helps me figure out where rabbits live, where they hide, and how they survive in the wild.
Why does this matter? Rabbits might look cute and fluffy, but they can cause big problems for native plants and animals. Rabbits breed very quickly and spread fast across the landscape, eating lots of plants and competing with native animals like wallabies for food. Over time, they can change habitats, making it harder for native species to find the food and shelter they need to survive. By understanding where rabbits live and how they survive, my research hopes to help people better manage rabbit populations and create a brighter future for Tasmania’s special native wildlife.
I’ve always loved animals and wanted to be a vet when I was younger. But after starting biology at UTAS, I discovered zoology and quickly fell in love with learning about animals and the natural world (and no! Zoologists don’t always have to work at zoos!).
These days, I get to head outdoors, search for rabbit clues, and encounter some incredible wildlife along the way. My work involves muddy boots, bush-bashing, and a surprising amount of rabbit poo, but it all helps protect Tasmania’s unique wildlife.
