The Rakali (Hydromys chrysogaster) is a semi-aquatic native mammal and is the only aquatic rodent of its kind in Australia, and yet there is a significant gap in biological and ecological knowledge on the species. 

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The current aim of this project is to explore Rakali presence, habitat preferences, and foraging behaviour in wetlands of the Goolwa region of South Australia. We seek to understand how one aspect of human presence (e.g. infrastructure and housing in the Goolwa township) may affect Rakali’s habitat use compared to more natural areas at Currency Creek, Finnis River and Watchalunga Reserve. Furthermore, we aim to investigate what habitat characteristics may be preferred by Rakali (e.g. features of wetlands with/without vegetation and human-made infrastructure). We also aim to observe Rakali behaviour, to provide inferences of diet, socialisation, population structure and reproductive behaviours.