Birriliburu Indigenous Protected Area facts for kids
Quick facts for kids Birriliburu Indigenous Protected Area |
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IUCN Category III (Natural Monument)
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| Nearest city | Wiluna, Western Australia |
| Area | 5,571.99 km2 (2,151.36 sq mi) |
| Designation | Indigenous Protected Area |
| Designated | 2013 |
The Birriliburu Indigenous Protected Area, also known as Birriliburu IPA, is a very large special area in Western Australia. It covers about 6.6 million hectares (that's like 66,000 square kilometers!) in the Western Desert. This important protected area was officially created in 2013.
It stretches from the Carnarvon Range (which is called Katjarra by local people) all the way to Constance Headland. It also runs along the famous Canning Stock Route. The Birriliburu IPA includes parts of three different desert regions: the Little Sandy Desert, the Gibson Desert, and the Gascoyne. This land belongs to the Martu people, who are the traditional owners.
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Exploring the Birriliburu IPA
The Birriliburu Indigenous Protected Area is a huge and amazing place. It's filled with different kinds of landscapes and lots of unique plants and animals.
Diverse Landscapes and Habitats
Imagine red sand dunes stretching far and wide. You'll also find rocky sandstone mountains and ranges. But it's not all dry! There are also sparkling salt lakes and flat, muddy areas called claypans. This mix of environments makes the area very special.
Home to Rare Animals
Because of its varied landscapes, the Birriliburu IPA is home to many important animals. Some of these animals are rare or endangered. You might spot a black-flanked rock-wallaby hopping among the rocks. There's also the great desert skink, a unique lizard. Birdwatchers might even catch a glimpse of the night parrot or the tiny slender-billed thornbill. Protecting this area helps these special creatures survive.
Ancient Culture and Art
The Birriliburu IPA is not just important for nature; it's also rich in ancient Aboriginal culture. There are many sacred sites and amazing rock art sites throughout the area. These places are very important to the Martu people. One famous site is Karnatukul, also known as Serpent's Glen. These sites tell stories from thousands of years ago.
Connecting with the Land
The Martu people have a deep connection to their land. They work to protect it and share its importance.
Reopening Katjarra for Visitors
In 2014, the traditional owners and rangers of Birriliburu did something special. They reopened Katjarra (the Carnarvon Range) for visitors during July. This area had been closed since 2008. They hoped to open it to the public every July in the future.
Sharing Culture and Land
About 70 visitors were given permits to enter Katjarra that year. There was a small fee of $100 per vehicle to help support the area's care. The Martu people also hoped that more Aboriginal people, especially young people, would visit. This would help them reconnect with their culture and their ancestral lands. It's a way to keep ancient traditions alive and strong.
