NSW and ACT primary school students are invited to create a drawing of a threatened Australian animal.

The powerful owl and the spotted-tailed quoll are just some of the species this award hopes to bring attention to.

There have been no confirmed sightings of these two animals for years.

"People may have seen these animals, but may have not recognised or reported them. Most threatened species are so rare that we often don't know what they look like,'' Leonie Gale, CEO of the Foundation for National Parks and Wildlife, said.

"There were three sightings of the powerful owl along Parramatta's drainage lines in 2007. They nest in tree hollows in large eucalypts. The spotted-tailed quoll hasn't been seen since 2001 and makes dens in fallen hollow logs,'' she said.

"We can help conserve these species by protecting their habitat, retaining creekside vegetation, especially areas with hollow-bearing trees''.

The drawings will help people identify these animals. Aside from gaining awareness the winners will receive trophies and a variety of prizes.

"But the greatest gift is for the animals,'' Ms Gale said.

In 2007 the money donated by Dymocks helped the Foundation fund conservation projects for endangered frogs. This year contributions will go to Australia's penguins.

The competition is open to all primary school students in NSW and ACT. Entries close on September 7.

For entry forms and more detailed information visit www.fnpw.org.au or call the Foundation on 9221 1949.