Conservation Strategies

   Unfortunately the population of Tasmanian Forester Kangaroos has reduced 90% since the 1800's. They've faced obstacles such as the arrival of humans in Australia, as well as the introduction of dingoes. This species has adapted as a means of survival but the loss and reconstruction of their habitat, for agricultural expansion has contributed to their endangerment. Unsupervised hunting has also made in impact in the decline of kangaroos. Currently the total Forester Kangaroo population is estimated at 26,000 being with 30% considered to be young kangaroos. The sum of adults is around 18,000.
   Drastic measures have taken place in order to sustain the amount of existing kangaroos while ensuring the re-growth of the species in the future. During the 1970's Tasmanian Forester kangaroos were captured and relocated to locations now know as Maria Island, Three Hummock Island, Kempton, and Narawntapu National Park. ``Mount William National Park was purchased in the early 70's in effort to raise and help monitor the kangaroo population. The addition of 18,439 hectares to the former farm in 2000 was made under the Regional Forest Agreement according to Australian Government representatives. In present times Tasmanian Forester kangaroos are protected by the Australian government. They are classified as "protected native wildlife" under the Tasmanian Nature Conservation Act 2002, white most of their range residing on private property.`` (Australian Government, 2007)

   As someone who has loved kangaroos since childhood I'm excited that there have been so many efforts to protect them. Animal trend reporters have studied them for generations and it has been reported that Tasmanian Forester kangaroos are now a stabilized species. That not only makes me happy, but also the native Australians that are proud of their animals.
   There is definitely a great difference in the numbers of living the sub-species Tasmanian Forester kangaroos vs. Eastern Grey kangaroos with the Eastern Grey breed leading the race in numbers but they are so similar that I think there hasn't been a huge overall loss. 99% in identical DNA trumps 1% of difference to me. I think that landowners clearing out the kangaroo habitat should be held accountable for the damage they've created both in the present and future. Making money off agriculture is important and I understand that but there must be some sort of compromise with how far they can take it before the damage becomes irreversible. Without a flourishing habitat the Tasmanian Forester species cannot thrive. These fences block their paths to water and seasonal foods. I also believe the problems caused by kangaroos destroying fences belonging to landowners can be solved or at least improved with the use of alternative materials to divide the crops from the animals.
   As individuals we can be conscious of our meat consumption. I have yet to meet a person who eats kangaroo meat but they're out there somewhere. If the demand is low less kangaroos will be hunted for their meat. We can also donate money to groups dedicated to raising awareness about this endangered species. There are so many ways to help this wonderful species - you just have to make the effort to seek the information.