THIS SOS is extended to conservationists in PNG and globally to help protect endangered species of tree kangaroo, wild fowl, cassowary and yellow plume bird of paradise around Mt Ipie’epim, Prince Alexander Range in Yangoru, PNG.
The population of the tree kangaroo and other fauna is depleting at alarming rates due to increased population pressure on its habitat.
The range is home to unique flora and fauna, which could appeal to conservationists far and wide. The wild fowl, the cassowary, the yellow plume bird of paradise and the tree kangaroo are in urgent need of protection now.
The fauna are a delicacy to the bushman and neighbouring plains and coastal tribesmen, where game hunting constitutes a significant proportion of their mainstay.
With rising population and extreme pressure on the land through slash and burn agricultural practices, these animals will be extinct within a decade.
This appeal is made to the DALW in ESP to start thinking about conservation of unique flora and fauna through consultative forums with the communities, not just Mt Ipie’epim but other areas along the range and the province as a whole.
In this case, Bonahitam villagers would be the point of contact. The neighbouring Sandaun has a programme on conservation of the tree kangaroo, which this area can emulate.
Similarly, the Department of Environment and Conservation, NGOs and global friends are asked to contribute to this worthy appeal in the form of knowledge, ideas and suggestions on mechanisms on how best we can obtain protection over the area.
This area is covered by Exploration Licence (EL) 1373. Although it has expired, moves are underway to have it renewed.

Al Peng
Via email