Grassland Earless Dragon Research & Publications
From assumed barrier to proven threat: first evidence of road mortality in the Monaro grassland earless dragon (Tympanocryptis osbornei). Pacific Conservation Biology, 2026.
This field note documents the first confirmed case of road mortality in the endangered Monaro grassland earless dragon (Tympanocryptis osbornei), overturning the prevailing assumption that sealed roads function solely as movement barriers for this species. The observation demonstrates that roads can pose a direct mortality threat and highlights the need to explicitly consider vehicle strike in impact assessments, road planning, and mitigation for grassland earless dragons. Read More >>>
Dragon Detectives: Citizen science confirms photo ID as an effective tool for monitoring an endangered reptile. Wildlife Research, 2023.
Alliance scientists have recently shown that specific individuals of one species of GED can easily be repeatedly identified from photographs over time based on the unique banding patterns across their backs. Earlier this year, everyday people participated in an online survey to test the method. Participants had a very high success rate in photo matching, proving that this is an effective and accurate technique.Being able to distinguish between individuals means they can be followed over long periods of time, allowing movement and population estimates to be calculated. Read More >>>
Where are my dragons? Replicating refugia to enhance the detection probability of an endangered cryptic reptile. Acta Oecologica, 2023.
Effective monitoring methods are crucial for tracking populations of rare and cryptic species. Artificial refugia have become a widely used tool for detecting herpetofauna, but their effectiveness depends on understanding the habitat preferences of target species. This study investigated whether combining two types of artificial refugia—customized "spider" tubes and concrete roof tiles—could improve detection rates of the endangered Monaro grassland earless dragon (Tympanocryptis osbornei).The results revealed that using a combination of refugia types enhances detection, particularly under varying environmental conditions. These findings provide valuable guidance for improving monitoring programs for the Monaro grassland earless dragon and other cryptic reptile species. Read More >>>
Threatened Grassland Reptiles of NSW and the ACT.
Australian Wildlife Magazine, 2022.
Grasslands, often overlooked as dull or unremarkable, are vibrant ecosystems brimming with hidden biodiversity, including many threatened reptile species. Beneath their unassuming appearance lies a world of secrets, showcasing their critical importance as havens for unique and endangered wildlife. This article unveils the fascinating reptiles that thrive in these underappreciated landscapes and highlights the need to protect their fragile habitats. Read More >>>
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