Ecologists have rediscovered the threatened New Holland mouse in Wollemi National Park for the first time in two decades. The tiny mammal was identified seven times across 40 survey sites, lured by a simple mix of peanut butter and oats placed in tea strainers.
Previously thought to be declining across its range, the social burrowing species may have survived the 2019–20 bushfires, showing resilience to fire in the landscape. Ecologist Vera Wong called the discovery exciting, as researchers had struggled to locate the species for years.
The surveys are part of a larger study tracking the ecological health of the Blue Mountains, with results expected later this year. Scientists now hope Wollemi could be a potential stronghold for the species, offering new hope for its conservation.