Great Australian Wildlife Search

The Great Australian Platypus Search 2021 has evolved to become the Great Australian Wildlife Search! The Great Australian Wildlife Search is a nationwide initiative focused on conservation through citizen science and innovative environmental DNA (eDNA) technology. The program aims to identify and protect regions of ecological significance by leveraging the power of community participation. Using eDNA technology, the program allows volunteers, known as citizen scientists, to collect water samples from designated sites, enabling the detection of traces of DNA that wildlife shed into their environment. This will provide a necessary baseline for future monitoring and help to inform ongoing protection and conservation efforts.

How does eDNA work?

eDNA technology works by collecting and analysing just a few samples of water, which allows the detection of traces of DNA that wildlife shed into their environment. This then helps scientists identify and locate the distribution of threatened aquatic species, such as the platypus and the Murray-River short-necked turtle, and in turn supports conservation efforts to protect them.

View snappy 2-minute video for the full rundown.

How are the sites selected?

Through the Murray-Darling Basin Authority’s support of the Great Australian Wildlife Search, during the spring 2023 season 420 free testing sites are now available to citizen scientists. We once again worked in partnership with La Trobe University to develop a rigorous sampling methodology to ensure a representative sample across the states. Our program partners were called upon to apply their local expertise and assist with selecting sites which are accessible for citizen scientists and will provide valuable data.

Can you explain the impact of eDNA technology on conservation efforts?

eDNA technology significantly enhances conservation initiatives by precisely identifying regions of ecological importance. This has the capability of informing waterway management actions and allows for targeted and strategic conservation efforts, ultimately contributing to the preservation of Australia's diverse wildlife.

Is the Great Australian Wildlife Search only focused on water-based wildlife?

While our initial focus is on aquatic species, the program's overarching goal is to contribute to the conservation of a broad range of Australian wildlife. The technology has the capability to detect thousands of aquatic and terrestrial species which have interacted with the aquatic environment over a 14-day period.

What data will be collected, when will it become available and how will it be used?

At each site, two water samples will be gathered, accompanied by specific site details to provide precise location information. The collected data is then transmitted to the EnviroDNA laboratory for analysis. The seasonal data is compiled and will be visually presented on a spatial platform, along with a comprehensive summary report. Given the substantial volume of data, the expected timeline for sharing this information will be around four months after the conclusion of the sampling season, strategically positioned before the commencement of the subsequent sampling season.

The data from the spring season will be spatially presented to the community, along with a summary report. This information will be publicly accessible for volunteers, waterway managers, policy makers, researchers, program partners, funders and general community.

The eDNA analysis forms a comprehensive picture of the distribution of wildlife in waterways. This information guides conservation strategies, ensuring resources are allocated where they are most needed to protect threatened species and their habitats.

How can organisations partner with the Great Australian Wildlife Search?

Organisations interested in partnering with us can reach out through our contact page or by emailing hello@odonata.org.au. Collaborative efforts and support from organisations play a vital role in expanding the reach and impact of the program, ensuring a collective effort in wildlife conservation.

For Citizen Scientists

How can I get involved as a citizen scientist in the Great Australian Wildlife Search?

Becoming a citizen scientist is easy! Simply register by selecting a site, and you’ll receive your eDNA kit. Follow the provided instructions for sampling at designated sites, and you'll be contributing to vital wildlife conservation efforts in no time.

What is the role of volunteers in the Great Australian Wildlife Search?

Volunteers play a crucial role in the program by venturing out to designated testing sites to collect water samples for eDNA analysis. Their passion and dedication are the driving force behind the success of the Great Australian Wildlife Search.

Can I choose a specific testing site for sampling?

This spring, we ask community to choose from the 420 sites on the Murray-Darling Basin map. However, opportunities exist to sponsor additional testing sites. We will work with our sponsors to expand the map and create more opportunities for community to get involved and generate even more valuable data. If there are no sites available near you, please register your interest to be notified of future testing seasons.

Can schools participate in the Great Australian Wildlife Search?

Absolutely! We welcome schools to become actively involved. The program offers a unique educational opportunity for students to engage in hands-on scientific exploration and contribute to real-world conservation efforts. Also, we are encouraging Scouts, Guides, and other organisations keen to make a difference, to get involved.

I’ve lost my confirmation email; how do I find my site reservation location?

Please reach out to our team at hello@odonata.org.au and we will help you with your site reservation details, and make sure you can get out in the field to sample.

Who do I contact or call if I have a question?

Our team will help with any further information or clarification of details. Reach out to us at hello@odonata.org.au or 03 5210 8428 (9am – 5pm, 7 days during testing season).

What happens if my phone is out of range when I collect the data?

The good news is that we foresaw situations where phones might be out of range during the project's design. To accommodate this, we've made provisions, and we kindly request that you complete the data submission process when you're back online, using either your phone or computer. It's crucial to follow the instructions in the participant manual, which will walk you through capturing the precise location. This involves taking a photo at the exact location you have conducted the test. When you upload this image, we can capture the geolocation details within the photo. You will also be asked to provide a screenshot of the location that appears on your smartphone map (note, the satellite location should still work even when offline). This information is pivotal, as it informs the laboratory about the exact location for referencing in future testing, research, and guiding environmental actions.

Where do you login to record your data when at your testing site?

Visit www.wildlifesearch.org.au, and use the ‘login button’ on the homepage using your profile details. This will pre-populate some of the information required and make the process quicker and smoother. The information you log should match the information on your sample bag being returned to the laboratory. It’s important that all records are accurate and match to ensure that the samples are accepted, and your citizen science contribution is as valuable as possible. Refer to the sampling guide for assistance or contact our team at 03 5210 8428 if you have any questions (9am – 5pm, 7 days during sampling season).

I’ve arrived at my reserved site and there is no access/water, what do I do?

If you encounter challenges accessing the waterway at your site, such as it being dried up, unsafe, or inaccessible, we apologise for any inconvenience and ask that you explore an alternative location. If an alternative location is visible or within walking distance, please proceed to test there and provide the new location details during data upload. If not immediately obvious, utilise map software on your phone to determine a more suitable location within approximately 4 km of the original location. Alternatively, you could consult our live reservation map and select the next closest and available locations.

Once you have selected a new site, please ensure you upload the updated latitude and longitude location as part of the data submission process. This is a very important part of the process. We also ask that you add an ‘x’ to the site details on the sample bag being returned to the laboratory to indicate that a new location has been selected.

For further assistance with this process please contact our team at 03 5210 8428. We're here to help you complete your citizen science activity safely and successfully.