Australian conservationists suggest island sanctuaries
Updated
A network set up to protect Australia's threatened species is suggesting island sanctuaries be established to conserve the animals.
An analysis by the network's Jarrad Holmes has highlighted the important role offshore islands could play in saving species from extinction.
Mr Holmes has identified around 30 islands in the Sir Edward Pellew group, Tiwis and the Kimberley that should be assessed as island arks.
He says the Northern Territory and Federal governments need to earmark $US1.8 million to develop a major "island ark" program.
"Rather than a whole series of projects where people have to chase funds, we are calling for one major islands' program to be funded," Mr Holmes said.
"We are thinking like a three to five year program.
"Now there are many islands just in the Northern Territory which have never been surveyed.
"We suggest that ... they are surveyed to see if these mammals are there and if they are not there to assess whether or not the habitat on those islands would be suitable for translocation."
