NATIONAL WILDERNESS RED INDEX

Published by the Colong Foundation for Wilderness Ltd. 30/09/94
Level 2, 332 Pitt Street, Sydney, NSW, 2000.
Ph (02) 9261 2400; Fax (02) 9261 2144.

Name:

MACDONNELL RANGES

Nominated by:

Not recorded

Location:

The Macdonnell Ranges area comprises three areas: Amunurunga Range, Idirriki Range and the Chewings Range.

Size
For size and tenure information contact the Colong Foundation.

DESCRIPTION

The Macdonnell Ranges consist of spectacular mountains and a series of elevated
hills of Precambrian sediments with deeply incised streams. The landscape,
unlike that of many of the other Central Australian wilderness areas, varies
quite markedly over short distances and provides watering points within walking
distance of one another. The ranges are known for their stark beauty and vivid
colour. The relative height of the ranges is suficient to cause a local
concentration of rainfall. [1]

The diversity of habitats as a result of this variation gives rise to a distinct
flora. Sheltered areas harbour relict species from a time when the climate of
central Australia was much wetter. The most widespread vegetation consists of a
sparse shrub layer interspersed by spinifex (Triodia spp). Shrubs include
witchetty bush (Acacia Kempeana), Cassia spp. and mulga (Acacia aneura and
Acacia macdonnellensis). [2]

Fauna withn the area reflects the habitat diversity and includes an endemic
pouched mouse (Pseucantechinus macdonnellensis) and a blind snake (Typhlina
endoterus). The area is rich in birdlife, particularly raptors, of which there
are 17 species present. [3]

STATE FORESTS

ENDANGERED SPECIES

LAND USE HISTORY

CONSERVATION HISTORY

THREATS

FERAL ANIMALS
The wilderness areas in the Macdonnell Ranges have suffered from the presence of
feral animals including rabbits, donkeys and horses. [4]

GRAZING
Pastoral activities have fouled areas around waterholes in the lower parts of
the Ranges. [5]

TOURISM
Tourism is increasing in the region and popular tourist roads extend along the
northern and southern boundaries of the area. [6]

CONTACTS

No contacts are recorded from that area.
ENDNOTES
1
Prineas, P., Lembit, R., Fisher, N., 186, "Australia's Wilderness An Inventory".

2
Prineas, 1986.

3
Prineas, 1986.

4
Prineas, 1986.

5
Prineas, 1986.

6
Prineas, 1986.

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