Wilson BA (Deakin University, School of Ecology and Environment, Geelong), Aberton JG (Deakin University, School of Ecology and Environment, Geelong)

The white-footed dunnart, Sminthopsis leucopus, is currently listed as vulnerable due to its patchy distribution, low population density, and extinction threats. The spatial distribution of S. leucopus was investigated in relation to landscape, habitat and fire factors in the Eastern Otway Ranges Vic. Logistic models were developed for species occurrence and predictor variables but the relationships were not strong and were not good at predicting occurrence of S. leucopus at a landscape level. Sminthopsis leucopus was recorded at a high percentage of sites 6-15 years post-fire age and at a maximal relative abundance of 4-9 years, suggesting that it prefers mid-succession habitat (A).