Social and economic impactsSocial and economic impacts

Social and economic impacts

Until it is determined whether the Christmas Island Shrew is extant, it is difficult to comment on the social and economic impacts resulting from management actions. The last confirmed records are from plateau and terrace rainforest, suggesting any development proposals and threatening processes affecting these habitats must include consideration of this species until further information is available. Similar to other endemic rainforest fauna that is threatened, the potential presence of the species could impact on economic activity or development. This arises from the listing under the EPBC Act, which invokes a range of protective provisions and offences where a population is to be affected. The magnitude of this potential impact is unknown, as it will vary with the location, size and extent of an affected population (once discovered), and the nature and extent of the activity, proposed or current.

Most fauna species on Christmas Island are endemic and some have the potential for attracting low impact ecotourism. The Christmas Island Shrew, although a cryptic component of the endemic fauna, provides an interesting ‘story’ as the only extant endemic mammal (excluding bats) on the island and the only Australian shrew. Such a ‘story’ may provide added appeal to tourists with a strong natural history background contemplating visiting the island. Rainforest rehabilitation, which provides employment for some islanders, may create potential habitat for the species in years to come.

Part B: Distribution and Location