Nyiyaparli representatives Debbie Dunn, Debbie Drage and Thelma Parker, along with KNAC’s environmental Advisor Michelle Gardner, attended a knowledge sharing event hosted by Rio Tinto’s biological assessment and approvals teams. We learned about how Rio are working to monitor and protect Ghost Bats across their Pilbara operations. 

Rio are utilising cutting-edge technology to track movement, habitat usage (what different types of environments the bats are using and how often), assess population genetics and monitor acoustics (sound) patterns. It is hoped that the data collected will provide vital information on which habitats are needed to enable the bats to survive and continue breeding, and to better understand direct and indirect impacts of mining activities on this species.

Some of the caves in which these bats roost also hold cultural significance to Nyiyaparli. Rio and KNAC are therefore looking to work together to make sure that Rio’s biological teams are entering caves in a culturally safe and appropriate way. Identifying caves that have dual cultural and environmental significance may also better able us to protect them from impact by future mining activities.  

KNAC and Rio are also working towards having Nyiyaparli representatives assisting out in the field with the bat monitoring activities in the future. If you think you might be interested in this, or other environmental monitoring activities, please contact Michelle via environment@karla.com.au