This work investigates the ecological and economic consequences of introducing non-native animal species into the Australian landscape. Eric Rolls, a respected Australian author and farmer, utilizes historical records, government reports, and personal observations to document how species such as rabbits, foxes, and feral pigs fundamentally altered the continent's biological balance. The text presents a detailed chronological account of human intervention and the subsequent struggle to manage these invasive populations.

The text is regarded as a foundational study on the environmental history of Australia, noted for its meticulous documentation and clear, accessible prose. It serves as a primary reference for understanding the complex relationship between human settlement and ecological disruption in the region.