The nocturnal native Woylie was almost wiped out by feral cats and foxes before conservationists stepped in – placing the rabbit-sized mammal into predator-free havens.

The successful program has run into unintended consequences however with the endangered Woylie observed losing their ‘anti-predator’ instincts.

Lead Researcher and PhD candidate from The University of Western Australia Tash Harrison spoke with Julie-anne Sprague on 6PR’s Afternoons.

”After 10 years of being inside these havens their ‘anti-predator’ abilities have become weakened,” Ms Harrison said.

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