Habitat use and ecological observations of the Ooldea dunnart (Sminthopsis ooldea) at Uluru–Kata Tjuta National Park, Northern Territory

A rare insight into the Ooldea dunnart (Sminthopsis ooldea), a small and elusive marsupial, reveals that mulga woodlands are likely its key habitat. Over 16 years of surveys at Uluru–Kata Tjuta National Park, researchers captured 37 individuals, most in pitfall traps, confirming spring breeding. While captures were inconsistent across habitats, they remained stable in one mulga-dominated site. Surprisingly, fewer dunnarts were found during the two wettest years, suggesting that rainfall may not be a primary driver of their presence. Fire also had no clear impact on their distribution. The study highlights the need to further explore the biotic and abiotic factors shaping this species' demography.

Bennison, K., Dickman, C. R., & Godfree, R. (2013). Habitat use and ecological observations of the Ooldea dunnart (Sminthopsis ooldea) at Uluru–Kata Tjuta National Park, Northern Territory. Australian Mammalogy, 35(2), 175–179. https://doi.org/10.1071/am12048