06/01/2026
Does it really matter when the Dingo arrived in Australia so many thousands of years ago⁉️
Natural selection has shaped a highly efficient predator able to function successfully in all our diverse environments, from deserts to alpine regions. The Dingo is also deeply incorporated into Indigenous Culture both spiritually and practically as bed warmers, camp guard, water finders and hunting assistant.
Dingoes are officially classed as native fauna in every mainland State and Territory, and at Federal level.
Under the EPBC Act any flora or fauna established prior to 1400AD is classed as native fauna.
Dingoes likely migrating between PNG and Australia via a landbridge that formed a larger landmass called Sahul 8000 to10000 years ago. They qualify❗️
100s of native species did not originate here and arrived at different times and by different means. Not originating here does not exclude an animal from being classed as native❗️
Before European settlement, Dingo numbers were estimated to be relatively low, but easier access to water, via the creation of dams and other forms of storage, and prey, such as introduced rabbit, resulted in increased numbers.
Dingoes are intelligent and resourceful, as well as extremely resilient and adaptable to new situations and environmental conditions. They are well equipped with tools typical of an efficient predator physically suited to taking down larger prey than themselves: strong jaw, large canines and flexible joints. With extremely keen senses and an efficient gait for both high speed and long distance travel, they are generalists able to survive on practically any food source ranging from berries and insects to large kangaroos.
Availability of prey species, water and environmental conditions influence the Dingoes hunting strategies, with the type and abundance of prey determining the size of their hunting groups...
Mostly Dingoes are solitary hunters, preying on smaller marsupials such as wallabies and bandicoots, as well as rodents and rabbits. However one of the Dingoes most compelling traits is its highly evolved social behaviour. In most cases, Dingoes live in structured family groups within defined territories.
All members help to raise the young, teaching and reinforcing social and hunting behaviour whilst defending and maintaining the territory against other Dingoes, feral and domestic dogs and smaller predators....This is the real Dingo❗️
The Dingo is neither saint nor a sinner except to those who want to make it so.😉
The best available science has proven that Australia needs the Dingo and that should determine how and if Dingoes should be managed, not current state legislation, politicians being pushed by the sheep industry❗️
"Experts" in invasive animal management advise on "wild dog" control all over the country. They refuse to even acknowledge the Dingo as a Dingo, reducing them to "wild dog" status with all evidence today dating back many, many thousands of years, yet they are still delegated to "wild dog".
State Government propaganda to ensure all are eradicated.
Yet the Australian Government acknowledged the Dingo at species level as Canis Dingo and accepts that the Dingo is a native species ❗️
The Dingoes arrival in Australia, likely via a land bridge from PNG, has allowed it to adapt and thrive in diverse environments. Its role in Indigenous Culture is significant, and its classification as native fauna is well-supported by science.
The debate around Dingo management is complex, with different perspectives on their impact on the environment and livestock. However, research shows that Dingoes play a vital role in maintaining ecosystem balance, controlling pest populations, and supporting native vegetation.
It's clear that the Dingo is a unique and valuable part of Australia's natural heritage, deserving of respect and protection. By recognising the Dingoes importance and promoting coexistence, we can work towards a more sustainable future for these incredible animals and the ecosystems they inhabit. 🐾🐾
