Caught on Camera: The Hidden Life of a Nyarlgoo’s Burrow

The Gooniyandi Rangers and KLC ecologist got a fascinating glimpse into the secret life of Nyarlgoo (Greater Bilby) when they reviewed camera trap footage from a burrow. From curious lizards to feral cats, the footage revealed the nocturnal activity of both native and introduced species on Gooniyandi Country.  

Camera traps are like nature’s hidden photographers. These motion-activated digital cameras use infrared sensors to detect warm, moving objects—like animals walking past in the night. They can capture rare moments in the wild, running for weeks or even months without disturbance

A surprising variety of animals—lizards, snakes, wallaroos, and more—were caught on camera investigating this Nyarlgoo burrow.

The camera trap also caught some feral cats possibly trying to hunt the Nyarlgoo. Thankfully, the feral cats failed in their attempts, and the Nyarlgoo survived unscathed.

The Gooniyandi Rangers have been closely monitoring their local Nyarlgoo population for years. Understanding their threats and behaviour can inform rangers on the best land management to protect these threatened animals.

Check out what this camera trap caught:

1-2: An adult Nyarlgoo emerges from its burrow, its nose dusted with sand after some late-night renovations. These burrows, up to 3m deep, provide critical shelter—each Nyarlgoo may maintain up to 12 burrows within its home range. Nyarlgoo can also share burrows.

3: A feral cat, accompanied by two kittens, lurks outside the burrow—possibly hoping for an easy meal. Fortunately, the Nyarlgoo remains safe, and the cats move on.

4: Four days later, the Nyarlgoo returns, maintaining its burrow entrance.

5: Another feral cat attempts to enter the burrow. After five minutes of unsuccessful tries, the cat gives up and leaves.

6-7: A curious Thirrwi (Common Wallaroo) pokes its head into the burrow, just missing the Nyarlgoo by ten minutes that same night.

8: The Nyarlgoo is back for more burrow upkeep.

9: A Marranyi (Dingo) investigates the burrow the morning after the Nyarlgoo’s visit.

10: A wawanyi (Sand Goanna) explores the entrance but quickly moves on.

11: A Barlyarni (Brown Snake) slithers in for a brief visit.

Thank you to the Foundation for National Parks and Wildlife for their support of this project.