Echidnas are one of the largest hibernators. During hibernation their body temperature falls until it is very close to the temperature of the soil; the lowest body temperature we have recorded is 4.7°C. Hibernation starts in late summer and reproductively active animals end their hibernation in June-July. During the hibernation season echidnas regularly rewarm and may move to another location. Read More....

The platypus is widespread and common throughout Tasmania and known to occur in about 79% of the river systems in Tasmania. However, the introduced fungal disease Mucor amphibiorum may be threatening some populations. Despite this, little detailed research has been carried out on the ecology of the species in Tasmania. Read More....

Kin recognition in viviparous lizards
Supervisor:
Dr Ashley Edwards

Is urban living stressful for lizards? Our common metallic skink is found in suburban gardens, which appear to provide excellent habitat. However such environments add extra dimensions of predation, particularly from domestic cats. This project will examine physiological stress indicators in lizards from a variety of habitats across an urban to bush gradient. Read More....

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