DAY 6 (#AdriftLab’s last update from the #NullaborPlains): after 4 days of driving, today the #SausageExpress arrived in Esperance!
For our final post, we reflect on the paucity of #wildlife observed during 40 hr of driving across 3580 km, four states, and diversity of habitats (occasionally at dawn). While we saw plenty of magpies and crows (and two wedge-tailed eagles 🦅), no emus, reptiles or mammals were recorded (with the exception of 2 wallabies early this morning, plus 2 road-kill foxes and a rabbit - the latter two are invasive species in AUS). With the exception of a swarm of yellow grasshoppers (near Eucla), our windscreen remained remarkably clean.
#Australia is among the top seven countries worldwide responsible for 60% of the world’s #BiodiversityLoss between 1996 and 2008. There’s much we can and should be doing. But sadly, Australia ranks second worst of 109 countries when it comes to biodiversity status and financial investment in conservation programs.
As first-time visitors to much of the land we crossed this week (essentially, as tourists) the lack of wildlife was notable, as was the frequently burnt vegetation (especially around Balladonia and Norseman 🥺) #bushfire
When you travel across these special places, carefully consider your footprint, the deep history of place, and the desperate need for education and action on environmental issues. We’re all in this together.
#BiodiversityCrisis #InsectApocalyps #ClimateEmergency #ThoughtfulTourism

DAY TWO: After much effort (!), our cast iron gates are loaded for their cross-country adventure. They’re gorgeous, but heavy as hell (500 kg 😳). Thankfully, for 9 hours the #SausageExpress (our van) got a much deserved break as we crossed the #BassStrait ⛴