A population viability analysis of K’gari (Fraser Island) wongari (dingoes)

A population viability analysis (PVA) of K’gari (Fraser Island) wongari (dingoes) reveals that, under favorable conditions, the population is likely to persist over 50 and 100 years. However, high mortality rates significantly increase extinction risk, particularly at low- and mid-level population sizes. Promiscuous breeding behavior, higher female breeding success, and greater male availability mitigate these risks. The study highlights the importance of PVA in identifying critical factors influencing wongari survival but underscores a lack of data on reproduction and mortality, which limits actionable recommendations for conservation managers. Improved data collection is essential to accurately predict the long-term viability of this iconic population.

Appleby, R., Smith, B. P., Jones, D., Conroy, G., & Behrendorff, L. (2025). A population viability analysis of K’gari (Fraser Island) wongari (dingoes). Australian Mammalogy, 47(1). https://doi.org/10.1071/am23009