A "census" is currently underway to map locations of the Giant Gippsland Earthworm.
The survey, the first conducted in 45 years, aims to help scientists undertake whether the Giant Gippsland Earthworm (GGE) population is thriving or declining in response to climate change.
The two-year project is being led by the Gippsland Threatened Species Action Group in partnership with the South Gippsland, Bass Coast and Latrobe catchment Landcare networks and GGE expert Dr Beverley Van Praagh. It is funded by the Australian Government's "Savings Native Species Program".

GGE can grow up to two metres long. This underground giant is only found in the south-west of Gippsland.
With most of the GGE population found on private land, West Gippsland landholders are being urged to join the census and help play a critical role in their survival.
According to Dr Van Praagh's research, the known habitat of GGE stretches across a large area, from Buln Buln in the north, down to Nyora and Korumburra. This area incorporates local towns such as Drouin, Warragul, Hallora and Poowong.
The GGE are a protected species and very fragile animals. Digging up these worms to view them or handling them incorrectly is likely to cause death.
They spend their entire life in underground burrows, usually near streams or drainage channels or on south or west facing slopes. Many landholders first notice them by the gurgling sound they make underground.
Some local residents may have already received a letter detailing the census project.
However, anyone who has found a GGE is being urged to make a report of their location to assist.
To take part, complete a survey at surveymonkey.com/r/GGECensusSurvey or download the "Giant Gippsland Earthworm" app.
To learn more about GGE or the project, visit giantearthworm.org.au
Survey responses are encouraged by Thursday, July 31.