Mawson and Tingoora, Exploring the plight of Australia's dingoes

Dingoes, Australia's wild dogs, are cultural icons but face challenges due to interbreeding and hunting. Introduced 3,000 to 4,000 years ago, they are the largest terrestrial predators in Australia, hunting various prey. While significant in Aboriginal culture, they are seen as pests by farmers. Their population is vulnerable due to interbreeding and hunting.

What is a significant challenge in identifying pure dingoes in Australia?

• They are nocturnal and hard to spot.

• They have interbred with domestic dogs.

• They are often mistaken for wolves.

• They live in remote areas only.

Approximately how many years ago were dingoes introduced to Australia?

• 4,000 to 5,000 years ago

• 3,000 to 4,000 years ago

• 2,000 to 3,000 years ago

• 1,000 to 2,000 years ago

What type of prey do dingoes hunt?

• Only large animals like kangaroos

• Only birds

• Only small animals like rodents

• Both small and large animals

How are dingoes perceived by livestock farmers?

• As helpful in controlling pests

• As pests due to attacks on livestock

• As endangered species

• As sacred animals

What are the main threats to the dingo population?

• Lack of food resources

• Competition with other predators

• Hunting for their skin and interbreeding

• Climate change and habitat loss