Giant Gippsland Earthworm (Megascolides australis)

The Giant Gippsland Earthworm is one of the largest earthworms in the world, growing over 1m in length. They are found in a small section of the South Gippsland, around Korumburra, Bena and Kongwak, and are listed as endangered.
These magnificent worms are rarely seen, but often heard as a deep gurgling sound as they make their way through their wet burrow.

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Dr Beverley Van Praagh, Australia’s leading expert on the giant Gippsland earthworm

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Regenerative Grazing - Managing Cattle, sheep and Giant Gippsland Earthworms

This video discusses the experiences of a regenerative organic farmer, Burke Brandon, who has observed the presence of earthworms on his 200-acre farm in South Gippsland, Australia. Burke explains that the earthworms are typically found in specific areas of the farm, such as the bottom of steep hills and well-drained areas, and that their presence is an indicator of soil health and moisture retention. The farm has adapted its' grazing management to protect the earthworm colonies, using practices such as skipping the grazing of certain paddocks or using temporary electric fencing. Burke emphasises that the regenerative grazing approach, which minimises soil disturbance, is well-suited for supporting the earthworm populations on the farm.

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Enhanced Knowledge and Protection of the Giant Gippsland Earthworm Project

In 2022, a partnership project between Bass Coast Landcare Network, South Gippsland Landcare Network, Trust for Nature, INVERT-ECO, Drift Media and the Gippsland Threatened Species Action Group was awarded a grant by the Federal Government. The project was entitled “Enhanced Knowledge and Protection of the Giant Gippsland Earthworm” and awarded under the Environment Restoration Fund-Threatened Species Strategy Action Plan-Priority Species Grants.

Click here to learn more about this project.