Mammals of the Goulburn River
The Goulburn River area between Eildon and Alexandra is a haven for a variety of fascinating native animals. Here’s a detailed look at some of the mammals you might encounter along the river:
Wombats (Vombatus ursinus)
These sturdy, solitary creatures are one of Australia’s most beloved marsupials. Wombats are primarily nocturnal and can be spotted during the evening or early morning, near their complex burrow systems. They have a distinctive, cubic feces, which they use to mark their territory and communicate with other wombats. With a diet consisting mainly of grasses and roots, wombats play a significant role in aerating the soil and maintaining healthy vegetation around the riverbanks.
Echidnas (Tachyglossus aculeatus)
Echidnas, or spiny anteaters, are remarkable for being one of the few egg-laying mammals, known as monotremes. These solitary animals are covered in spines and have a specialized, long snout they use to consume ants, termites, and other insects. Echidnas are often seen foraging in leaf litter and soil for food, and while they are more commonly found in forests and woodlands, they can occasionally be spotted near river areas, especially in search of food or during the breeding season.
Water Rats (Hydromys chrysogaster)
Also known as Rakali, water rats are Australia’s largest and most aquatic rodent. They have a sleek, dark fur coat with a distinctive white tip on the tail, webbed feet, and a waterproof layer of fur to aid in swimming. Rakali are skilled hunters, feeding on a varied diet that includes fish, crustaceans, and aquatic insects. They are most active during the night but can occasionally be seen during the day, swimming in the river or foraging along the banks. Their presence indicates a healthy aquatic ecosystem, as they require clean, unpolluted water to thrive.
Overview
These native animals contribute to the rich tapestry of wildlife along the Goulburn River, each playing a unique role in the ecosystem. From the burrowing wombat that helps aerate the soil and maintain grassland health, to the echidna with its role in controlling insect populations, and the water rat, indicating the health of the river system, they all add to the biodiversity and ecological balance of the area.
