Mammals, reptiles and frogs
Bowra is located at the confluence of two subregions. The resulting variation of land forms, topography, soil types and vegetation supports a large number of mammals, reptiles and frogs.
In total, AWC estimates that Bowra is home to :
- Over 30 mammal species
- More than 65 reptile species
- Around 20 amphibian species
Small mammals include the Fat-tailed Dunnart, Stripe-faced Dunnart and the rare Kultarr. Other small mammals expected to occur include the Narrow-nosed Planigale and the Sandy Inland Mouse. Water Rats live along the permanent and semi-permanent waterholes, while Koalas, Brushtail Possums and Sugar Gliders (all uncommon within the Mulga Lands) are likely to find refuge in the Bowra woodlands. Old growth trees containing hollows occur throughout the property, providing habitat for hollow-dwelling mammals, including microbats. The diverse vegetation, abundant roost sites and the presence of permanent water are likely to support large populations of at least ten microbat species. The Little Pied Bat (listed as 'Rare' under state legislation) has been recorded on the property and the nationally threatened Greater Long-eared Bat has been recorded in mulga between Cunnamulla and Bollon.
Numerous gilgais and swamps are present which provide breeding habitat for frogs. Seventeen species have already been recorded at Bowra. One species, the Desert Spadefoot Toad is at its eastern range limit at Bowra.
The number of reptiles is likely to exceed 65 species. In particular, the skinks, geckoes and elapid snakes will be well represented. The property contains habitat for aquatic reptiles including three species of turtle. One of these is the Broad-shelled River Turtle (a poorly documented species in the Mulga Lands and near its western range limit). The threatened Yakka Skink has also been sighted on the property. Suitable habitat is present for another threatened reptile - the Woma Python. Womas are known historically from the Cunnamulla region.