Goats graze on grass to save lizards
We’re not kidding, the goats have been called in to help the little lizard that lives in the city park. The first goats have been sent to Melbourne’s Royal Park to munch on the weeds that threaten the habitat* of the White lizard. Lizards have lived in this part of the park for more than 20 years, and are the only surviving population in downtown Melbourne. They prefer rocky habitats and shady vegetation, and open areas to soak in the sun. They make burrows to escape predators*, hibernate* and reproduce. But weeds have ravaged their Royal Park habitat, with exotic grass covering their *sun beds*. The goats will be gradually introduced into the park’s seven fenced plots in the coming weeks. The City of Melbourne is conducting trials with the University of Melbourne as part of a plan to improve ecosystem health* and biodiversity*. Acting Mayor Nicholas Reece said the council was eager to see if the goats could “work their grazing magic” and improve the lizards’ habitat. “We’re not kidd