Biodiversity workshop explores hotspot

The South West has been branded a biodiversity hotspot, overflowing with threatened flora and fauna species.

Examples of the threatened species will be explored by conservation experts at a public Community Conservation in Action workshop on Thursday.

The South West Catchments Council will use the event to discuss ways the public can help reduce the risk of extinction of some of WA's most iconic plants and animals.

SWCC biodiversity project manager Jodie Deeley said the workshop would show individuals how they could help in the management and recovery of threatened species and their habitats.

"That's either on their own land or in their local bushland," she said.

Large-scale and localised vegetation clearing from urbanisation and agriculture, dieback spread and changes in climate are just some of the threats to the species.

Among those include the Western Ringtail Possum, Carnaby's White-tailed Black Cockatoo and Grand Spider Orchid, just to name a few.

Ms Deeley said residents could already be helping threatened species.

"If people live in an urban environment, especially around Bunbury or Busselton, they can plant possum-friendly gardens, put up nesting boxes and control cats and dogs from native wildlife," she said.

A number of speakers including an ecologist and experienced wildlife carer will present at the workshop and registrations close tomorrow.

For the workshop location and to register, contact SWCC on 9724 2400.