Rakali, often referred to as Australia’s otter, are a familiar sight across the irrigation channels of the MIA. With their distinctive, white-tipped tails, webbed feet, and water-repellent fur, these native aquatic mammals are well adapted to the region’s network of channels and waterways.
Our maintenance teams frequently report sightings during routine inspections, with some noting that there’s not many days they wouldn’t see one.
These animals are territorial and often inhabit burrows or hollow logs along densely vegetated banks, making the MIA’s channel environment an ideal habitat. Their continued presence underscores the importance of maintaining ecological balance alongside irrigation infrastructure and offers a reminder of the interconnectedness between water delivery and biodiversity.
read ABC news article