Overview

 

Map of Australian Savannas (shaded area) [source:savanna.cdu.edu]

Historically prized for its massive open plains and incredible ecological diversity, the Australia Savanna is one of the few remaining on the entire Planet.  A part of the island covering more then 247 million acres, the Savanna of Northern Australia is know for its historically diverse ecosystem, containing 460 bird species, 110 mammals, and 225 freshwater fish. (The Nature Conservancy)  Some of the more notable Savanna dwellers include the Emu, and the Koala Bear. Many animals that once found shelter in the Savanna are being killed.  These animals have historically found their homes across the Savanna, but as of late many have become endangered due to the huge increase of human interaction and the development of both the farming and mining industries.  The Emu has recently come under attach from Farmers defending their crops, while others like the Koala are being killed in fires that have become an unnatural aspect of the Savanna. (Blue Planet)

Not only does it have a complex and diverse ecosystem, the Savanna is also home to a majority of Australia’s indigenous Aboriginal population who have deep historical roots to the region.  The Aboriginal peoples were the first people to begin cultivating the Savanna for the Pastoral, also known as ranching, and Mining Industries. (Savanna Explorer)  Over the 40,000 years that the Aboriginals have been rising live stock and mining the Savanna, sustainability was well maintained and the impacts on the environment were almost non-existent; however, more recently with the increase in foreign ranching and mining, the Savanna is in more danger then ever before of being greatly reduced. (The Nature Conservancy)  Many animals that once found shelter in the Savanna are being killed.  Farmers defending their crops are one cuprite, while others like the Koala are being killed in fires that have become an unnatural aspect of the Savanna.

Both indigenous peoples and animals of the Savanna that have once called the vast territory of Australia their home are steadily losing their ground.  The Savanna is under great pressure from the increasing population and the ever-growing threat of over industrialization.  From the death of innocent animals leading to higher rates of extinction, to the abusive tendencies of modern industry on the land and its inhabitants, Australia’s Savanna region is nearing a critical point in its preservation.