Peter Myroniuk BSc (Hons), MSc

Peter is a Conservation Zoologist and Director of Wildlife CSI with considerable experience in field zoology, conservation biology, wildlife conservation management (species recovery planning and management), the zoo industry (scientific captive population management), conservation genetics and demographics, population modelling, research and wildlife rescue, relocation and rehabilitation.

Peter’s interests in wildlife and nature began in his teens as he and his family explored the coast around Barwon Heads and the Otway bush at Lorne, Victoria. This interest lead Peter to undertake a Biology degree at La Trobe University which he completed in 1982 and latter undertook an Honours Degree in Zoology in 1984. A year later, Peter gained employment with the Zoological Parks and Gardens Board (now known as Zoos Victoria – Melbourne Zoo, Healesville Sanctuary and Werribee Zoo) as an assistant zoologist and as Conservation Zoologist. Peter was involved in the management of wildlife in captivity, including threatened wildlife recovery and management programs (for example, Eastern Barred Bandicoot, New Holland Mouse, Leadbeater’s Possum), conservation genetic management and research. Whilst with the zoo industry, Peter was involved with the initial establishment and development of the Australasian Species Management Program, which included the development of several captive studbook management databases and plans. Peter was with the Zoo for 19 years.

In 1997, Peter completed his Master of Science degree. His dissertation was on the Conservation Genetics of the New Holland Mouse.

Peter has lectured in Captive Vertebrate Management at Charles Sturt University. His principal research interests are in the area of conservation genetics, population viability analysis, population structure, reintroduction biology, captive management of endangered species, biology and conservation of Pseudomyine rodents, wildlife rehabilitation and management.

Peter is a member of the Australian Mammal Society, the Field Naturalist Club of Victoria, Environment Victoria and Wildlife Victoria. He has sat on several committees such as the Macedon Ranges Shire Natural Environment Advisory Committee, the Department of Primary Industries Wildlife and Small Institutions Animal Ethics Committee, the Eastern Barred Bandicoot and New Holland Mouse Recovery Teams. For 11 years Peter was President of Victorias’ largest wildlife rescue organisation, Wildlife Victoria.

Peter has undertaken field projects in the Philippines, north Queensland, Tasmania, and throughout Victoria. He has participated in and conducted a wide range fauna projects utilising a wide range of survey techniques.

Peter has been involved in wildlife conservation, management research and teaching for over 25 years.

Peter holds the following licences, certificates and competencies:

• Bachelor of Science Degree (Honours) – Zoology; Latrobe University 1984
• Master of Science Degree – Conservation genetics; Deakin University 1997
• Current Victorian Drivers License
• Senior First Aid
• Construction Industry Red Card (attained April 2004)
• Category A and B Longarm Firearm Licence
• Category C Tranquiliser Gun Licence
• Accredited Wildlife Handler – Firearm Safety and Training Council
• Operate and Maintain Chainsaw certificate
• Venomous Snake Control certificate
• Inoculated for the Australian bat lysavirus (enables the capture and handling of bats)