bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Preliminary experiments on the reporting of the recovery of banded birds in south-eastern Australia
Authors: Lowe KW
Published: June 2005

A series of pilot experiments using birds banded after death and live banded birds was conducted to
document the rate of reporting of bands and the effects of several factors (including species, band
address, geographic location, band metal type) on the reporting rate. The reporting rate varied from
0 to 53% for dead banded birds, and from 0.7 to 3.9% for live banded birds. None of the experimental
factors had an effect on the reporting rate. Data on the recovery details of bands were generally
accurate but date of recovery had an error of up to 12 days. Finders of bands often made incorrect
assumptions on the cause of death of birds. These results should be considered in current statistical
analysis of banding data.
Distribution and abundance of spectacled hare-wallabies and euros on Barrow Island, Western Australia
Authors: Short J , Turner B
Published: June 2005

Spectacled hare-wallabies (Lagorchestes conspicillatus) and euros (Macropus robustus isabellinus) occur
on Barrow I. at densities of 42 and 8 km-2, respectively, which result in estimates of total population
sizes of c. 10000 and 1800, respectively. Spectacled hare-wallabies occur throughout the island in all
habitat types; euros tend to be concentrated in the deeply dissected country in the central-west of the
island. Limited areas of floodout flats are important feeding areas for euros, being the only major
habitat on the island dominated by grasses other than Triodia. There was no significant difference
between density of either species on the two halves of the island (one half is dominated by a commercial
oilfield; the other is relatively undisturbed).
Barrow I. is the smallest island off the Australian coast to have successfully supported a population
of large macropods for the 8000-10000 years since separation from the mainland by rising sea-level.
Hence, the population estimate of euros on Barrow I. provides an empirical measure of the viable
population size necessary for the long-term survival of large macropods. This estimate is nearly two
orders of magnitude less than that estimated from a theoretical model of minimum viable population
size (Belovsky 1987).
Acute Toxicity of Sodium Monofluoroacetate (1080) Baits to Feral Cats.
Authors: Eason CT , Frampton CM
Published: June 2005

Feral cat populations have a devastating effect on many native wildlife species. As part of a programme to evaluate improved predator control, feral cats were observed after they had ingested a polymer bait loaded with sodium monofluoroacetate (1080) 0.4-1.6 mg/g bait, equivalent to doses of 0.1-1.3 mg/kg body weight. Deaths occurred with 0.6 mg/g bait and all higher doses. With the highest dose all animals died within 24 h. An approximate oral LD50 of 0.28 mg/kg (0.07-0.49) and LD90 of 0.35 mg/kg (0.14-0.56) were calculated (with 95% confidence limits). Main symptoms were disorientation and lethargy, followed by death. A dose of 2 mg/g bait is recommended as a humane and lethal dose of 1080 for feral cats.
Technical Note: A new trap trigger mechanism for the capture of swamp wallabies, Wallabia bicolor (Marsupialia : Macropodidae)
Authors: Pollock DC , Montague TL
Published: June 2005

Instead of having steel mesh walls, this trap uses strong shade-cloth to reduce the risk of injury to
trapped wallabies and maintain them in a relatively comfortable environment. The trigger mechanism
is released when a string is pulled as a result of weight being applied to the shade-cloth floor. This new
trigger mechanism increases trapping efficiency. The trap may be left in an open, inactivated state to
allow wallabies to become accustomed to its presence.
The Bird Fauna of a Deciduous Woodland in the Wet-Dry Tropics of Northern Australia.
Authors: Woinarski JCZ , Tidemann SC
Published: June 2005

Censuses of birds were made monthly from October 1986 to October 1987 in a deciduous woodland in the Australian Northern Territory. Additional limited counts of granivorous birds were made in March and April 1988. The woodland was selected for the study because it contains a population of the endangered Gouldian finch (Erythrua gouldiae). The species composition of birds was temporally unstable; this was associated with the marked wet-dry seasonality. For some foraging groups (e.g. nectarivores, foliage-gleaners), diversity was correlated with resource availability. Although the species composition of birds of this site is not very similar to that of any other surveyed area, it falls within the range encompassed by that of woodlands across tropical Australia, and is distinct from that of open and closed forests in the same region. Tropical savanna woodlands and open forests differ in composition of their foraging groups compared with their temperate counterparts. The species richness of granivores, hawking insectivores, nectarivores and terrestrial omnivores at this site is unusually high. The changing composition of bird species in this tropical woodland site suggests that many birds in this environment undergo substantial regional movements. The conservation of such species demands large and heterogeneous reserves, a strategically located reserve system and/or sympathetic management of land outside reserves.
The New Holland mouse (Pseudomys novaehollandiae) (Rodentia : Muridae) in Tasmania: a field study.
Authors: Pye T
Published: June 2005

Preliminary field observations were carried out on a population of Pseudomys novaehollandiae in a
remote region of north-eastern Tasmania (Mt William National Park). P. novaehollandiae were found
only in the coastal heathland that had been strongly influenced by high fire frequency. These mice dig
burrows in the soft sandy substrate and are strictly nocturnal in their feeding habits. Breeding is
seasonal and takes place from early November to late March. Sexual maturity is reached at minimal
body weights of 15-19 g. Females are capable of producing at least two litters in a breeding season and
show distinct changes in the vaginal opening both before and after parturition. They are significantly
heavier than males, and have longer tails and larger ears, but there is no significant difference between
the sexes in hindfoot lengths. To maintain this population at Mt William National Park, regular firing
of the habitat, either naturally or by regular controlled patch-burn firing of the habitat at intervals of
7-10 years, together with control of feral cats, is recommended.
Seasonal movements of grey-headed flying-foxes, Pteropus poliocephalus (Chiroptera : Pteropodidae), from two maternity camps in northern New South Wales
Authors: Eby P
Published: June 2005

Seasonal movements of 22 Pteropus poliocephalus, from two maternity camps in north-eastern New
South Wales, were monitored from January to June 1989 using radiotelemetry. The animals moved
independently in time and space among various communal roosts located 8-610 km from the maternity
camp sites. Generally, P. poliocephalus from a camp near rainforest (Currie Park, Lismore) remained
within 50 km of the maternity site. These localised movements were attributed to the continued
availability of fruits in the rainforest throughout the study. Animals from a maternity camp surrounded
by sclerophyll forest (Susan I., Grafton) undertook long migrations south (median distance 342.5 km,
n = 11) to camps containing up to 200 000 P. poliocephalus of both sexes. These large aggregations
formed during the mating season and comprised individuals drawn from various previous sites. Thus,
P. poliocephalus in northern and central N.S.W. appear to function as a single breeding population and
should be managed as such. After mid-May, animals from Susan I. returned to north-eastern N.S.W.
There was high correlation between movements of P. poliocephalus from the camp at Susan I. and the
flowering patterns of certain species of Myrtaceae and Proteaceae. It is hypothesised that flowering
attractive to apiarists is also attractive to P. poliocephalus and that information from apiarists could
be used by wildlife managers to predict large aggregations of the animals.
Population ecology of western grey kangaroos in a remnant of wandoo woodland at Baker's Hill, southern Western Australia
Authors: Arnold GW , Grassia A , Steven DE , Weeldenburg JR
Published: June 2005

A subpopulation of western grey kangaroos (Macropus fuliginosus) living in a 305-ha remnant of
wandoo woodland in the mediterranean climate of the south-west of Western Australia was studied
for 10 years. Measurements and estimates were made of a wide range of population characteristics
including population size, composition, reproductive rate, emigration and immigration rates and
death rates. Growth rates of males and females were established and yearly differences in nutritional
status assessed.
The population increased over four years from 146 � 22 to a plateau of around 200 before being
culled to 95. The numbers then increased slowly over another six years to 158 individuals. The
population had an average of 46 adult males per 100 adult females. Subadults plus juveniles made up
10-36% of the population, depending on the year. Breeding was seasonal, being earlier in years with
early autumn rain. Reproductive rate was higher, overall, in these years. Females became sexually
mature at about 16 kg, their reproductive rate increased with weight until they reached 24 kg; 91% of
adult females over 24 kg had pouch young annually. Mortality of young appeared to be high, and to
be the factor regulating the population. On average, only 27% of young survived the first year after
leaving the pouch. Emigration rate was estimated to exceed immigration by 5% per annum. The
estimated mortality rate of adults was 5% per annum.
The nutritional status of individuals varied from year to year; within a year, only females were
heavier in early summer than in later summer. It was concluded from faecal nitrogen levels that nitrogen
was not a major factor influencing nutritional status in summer.
Fifteen years after this remnant woodland was established by clearing, the subpopulation of
kangaroos living in it appeared to be relatively stable in numbers, and certainly was not showing the
marked fluctuations known to occur in semi-arid areas of Australia.
An improved design for trap brackets used for trapping small mammals in trees
Authors: Meggs RA , Lindenmayer DB , Linga T , Morris BJ
Published: June 2005

This paper describes a new type of bracket to support 'Elliott' Type A traps for trapping small arboreal
and scansorial marsupials in trees. The trap bracket is cheap, robust, and safe, quick and easy to install.
Mouse plagues in South Australia cereal-growing areas III. Changes in mouse abundance during plague and non-plague years, and the role of refugia
Authors: Mutze GJ
Published: June 2005

Mouse populations were monitored at 15 sites between 1980 and 1990, during which time one severe
mouse plague, in 1980, and one minor outbreak, in 1984, were recorded. Smaller annual peaks in
autumn to early winter were followed by winter population declines. Crops were colonised each year
in late winter or early spring by mice from winter refuge habitats with dense, low vegetation, including
roadsides and grassland along a railway line. In most years mouse numbers in crops declined during
summer, but in 1983-84 they rose continuously during summer and autumn, and reached very high
levels. Crops planted in 1984 were invaded by large numbers of mice which had survived through winter
in the paddocks, but population levels again crashed in late spring and summer. Recorded population
changes were generally consistent with plague probabilities predicted from environmental variables,
except in 1985 when numbers failed to reach the predicted high levels at most sites. Population changes
in crops during late spring appear to be critical in the development of mouse plagues. Large litter
sizes and pregnancy rates, and variable survival rates and size of the breeding population, appear to
be important factors at that time.
Diet and reproductive biology of the Australian sand-swimming lizards, Eremiascincus (Scincidae)
Authors: James CD , Losos JB
Published: June 2005

The diets, morphology and reproductive biology of two little-known sand-swimming skinks,
Eremiascincus fasciolatus and E. richardsoni, were compared by using preserved museum specimens
(n =458). In addition, some ecological data are presented for E. fasciolatus from a mark-recapture
study in spinifex grasslands in central Australia. The species are similar in morphology and body
pattern, but reportedly differ in microhabitat preferences. Both species ate a range of invertebrate taxa,
with beetles, grasshoppers and spiders making up most of the prey consumed. Vertebrate prey (lizards)
were rare in the diets but were large and energetically important items when consumed. There were no
significant differences in the taxonomic composition of the diets between species, between sexes of a
species, or among age classes of a species. Females tended to be longer in body length (snout-vent
length, SVL) than males, but adult males were heavier than females of the same body length. Testes
of males were enlarged in spring (September-December), coinciding with the appearance of females
with vitellogenic follicles. Both species are oviparous, and eggs were laid from October to February.
Clutch sizes averaged around four eggs and were not significantly different between the species at the
same SVL. Adult E. fasciolatus moved extensively during the field study; average displacement between
recaptures was 63.5 � 128 m. Population estimates for E. fasciolatus varied seasonally between 14 and
108 individuals on the 60-ha study site. E. fasciolatus was most abundant in microhabitats on dune
crests with a sparse cover of spinifex but frequently traversed large areas in swales with hard soil and
denser spinifex cover.
Phytotoxicity, Poison Retention, Palatability, and Acceptance of Carriers Used in Compound-1080-Foliage Baits for Control of Feral Goats.
Authors: Parkes JP
Published: June 2005

Feral goats have been controlled in New Zealand by treating leaves of favoured food plants with the poison sodium monofluoroacetate (compound 1080) in a suitable carrier, either carbopol gel or petrolatum grease. The effect of these 2 carriers on the most suitable plant species (mahoe), their retention of 1080, their comparative palatability to goats, and the acceptance of the least palatable, petrolatum, were studied in a series of trials. Both carriers caused baited leaves to absciss, and the rate of abscission increased when 1080 was included. Toxic petrolatum was 3 times less phytotoxic than carbopol and retained 1080 for much longer (carbopol lost most of its toxin after 200 mm of rain). Abscissed petrolatum-treated leaves retained much of their toxicity for at least a year. Goats detected and, to some extent, rejected leaves of all treatments, either by not eating them or by spitting them out (particularly petrolatum-treated leaves). However, use of iophenoxic acid as a bait marker indicated that even petrolatum-treated leaves were consumed by 24 of 30 goats tested. Carbopol with 1080 is recommended for use where its distribution is sufficient to place all goats at immediate risk. Petrolatum is not recommended for general use, although it can be used in areas where a long-life bait is needed.
Distribution records of native terrestrial mammals in Tasmania
Authors: Rounsevell DE , Taylor RJ , Hocking GJ
Published: June 2005

The distributions of 34 species of terrestrial mammals native to Tasmania are presented as presence/
absence records on 10 x 10 km grid maps. All native species and the possibly introduced Petaurus
breviceps are included except Thylacinus cynocephalus, which is probably extinct. The distribution
maps were prepared from approximately 10 000 recent (1967-89) mammal records held on computer,
selected literature records and other sources.
Twenty-six species are widely distributed across the State. Five species have more limited distributions
confined to the east or west of the State, depending upon the occurrence of their habitats. The three
remaining species are bats that are little-recorded and their distributions are unclear. Notes on the ease
of recording species and their habitats are provided to supplement and assist the interpretation of their
distributions. Further records of all species are needed, especially from islands.
Feral Pig (Sus Scrofa) Rooting in a Monsoon Forest-Wetland Transition, Northern Australia.
Authors: Bowman DMJS , Mcdonough L
Published: June 2005

A grid of 447 cells (each 50x50 m) was set up in a wet monsoon rain forest on a gradual slope above the Adelaide River floodplain in the Australian Northern Territory. Surveys of pig (Sus scrofa) rooting were carried out at approximately 3-month intervals from November 1988 to September 1989. The pigs had only limited effects on the forest in both the wet and dry seasons. The seasonally flooded swamp communities (Melaleuca forest and sedgeland) were primarily exploited in the dry season; dryland communities ([Eucalyptus] and Lophostemon forests) were exploited during the wet season. Rainfall during the previous wet season may have influenced the pattern of rooting in the dryland forests. Rooting and ground cover were weakly positively related in 3 out of the 4 surveys.
The diet of the allied rock-wallaby, Petrogale assimilis, in the wet-dry tropics
Authors: Horsup A , Marsh H
Published: June 2005

The diet of the allied rock-wallaby, Petrogale assimilis, an inhabitant of the wet-dry tropics of North
Queensland, was studied over three years by microscopic faecal analysis, feeding observations, and an
analysis of the ratios of the natural isotopes of 12*C and 13*C in the faeces. Forbs were the major food
item, accounting for 22-65% of the identified epidermis in the faeces, and tended to be actively
selected by the wallabies. Browse (20-41%) and plants with stellate trichomes (6-32%) were the next
most-important dietary items, the latter being eaten in significantly higher proportions in the dry seasons
of 1987 and 1988. Grass comprised only 5-16% of recognisable epidermis in the faeces, but was eaten
in significantly higher proportions when fresh new growth was available. Forbs were difficult to identify
at night, and most plants that rock-wallabies were recorded eating were those with stellate trichomes
rather than forbs. The low incidence of grass in the diet was confirmed by the carbon-ratio analysis.
Restricting the movements of brushtail possums (Trichosurus vulpecula) on farmland with electric fencing
Authors: Cown PE , Rhodes DS
Published: June 2005

A trial was conducted to test whether an electric fence would limit local movements of brushtail
possums (Trichosurus vulpecula) on farmland in the central North I. of New Zealand. If effective, such
a system could be used to reduce possum and cattle interactions and the spread of bovine tuberculosis.
A 3-km-long, 9-strand electric fence was erected from ridge to ridge across a valley catchment of about
160 ha. Possums were live-trapped and released at bush patches within the study area and in open areas
immediately adjacent to the electric fence. Only about 30% of possums caught at local bush patches
were ever retrapped at the fence, and most were caught only once at the fence. About a third of
possums caught at the fence were trapped at least once on both sides of the fence. The electric fence
reduced possum movements through the fenced area by about 60-80%. Most possums trapped at the
fence had come from bush patches within 200 m of the fence. When the fence was switched off, possum
captures on the outside increased rapidly. The effectiveness of the fence was reduced because of
frequent voltage reduction by earthing from a wide variety of causes, and because possums learned to
move around the ends of the fence and the fences along the farm roads. Improvements to fence design
are discussed.
A population decline in Weddell seals: real or sampling artefact?
Authors: Green K , Wong V , Burton HR
Published: June 2005

Aerial counts of Weddell seals during the moult did not provide a useful index of population trends.
Seals may spent longer foraging in the water in some years than in others (possibly because of changes
in food availability), with the result that differing proportions of the population are counted in different
years. It is concluded that little can be inferred about interannual differences in population sizes without
reference to the size of the breeding population.
The diet of the Bridled nailtail wallaby (Onychogalea fraenata). I Site and seasonal influences and dietry overlap with the black striped wallaby (Macropus dorsalis) and domestic Cattle
Authors: Dawson TJ , Tierney PJ , Ellis BA
Published: June 2005

The bridled nailtail wallaby (Onychogalea fraenata) is one of Australia's rarest marsupials, persisting
only in a small area in central Queensland. Its diet and those of two sympatric herbivores, the blackstriped
wallaby (Macropus dorsalis) and domestic cattle (Bos taurus/indicus), were assessed by identifying
plant fragments in their faeces. The diet of 0 . fraenata was diverse, consisting of herbaceous plants,
grasses and browse. In good seasons the intake was biased towards forbs and other herbaceous plants.
Browse was only important when vegetation availability was low. Grass could be a major part of the
diet when forbs were scarse. Black-striped wallabies and cattle were largely grass eaters. When conditions
were dry, browse contributed up to 16% of the diet of M. dorsalis and 10% of the diet of
cattle. Dietary overlap with 0. fraenata was greatest at such times, being above 50% for both species.
Potential for dietary competition was apparent and it is suggested that this may have been a factor in
the decline of 0 . fraenata with the advancement of European settlement and spread of domestic stock.
Urine-Marking in Three Species of Rattus.
Authors: Mallick SA
Published: June 2005

Urine-marking behaviour is described for Rattus lutreolus (from Tasmania), Rattus rattus and a laboratory strain of Rattus norvegicus. Numerous small drops of urine were deposited onto the substrate during normal movement in laboratory experiments. There was no significant difference in marking rate between the sexes.It is suggested that the urine marks may be olfactory cues involved in intraspecific communication.
Effects of a Rainforest Road on Movements of Small Mammals: Mechanisms and Implications.
Authors: Burnett SE
Published: June 2005

Live-trapping was used to study the effects of a road on the movements of 4 species of terrestrial and scansorial mammals at 4 sites in upland vine-forest at Mt. Spec, N. Queensland, in February, March, May, June and August 1989. The road consisted of a 4-m wide bitumen strip at all sites; it was flanked by 1-m wide shoulders on each side at 2 sites and 4-m wide shoulders on each side at the other 2 sites. When baited traps were set on both sides of the road during grid-trapping, the road crossing rate of Uromys caudimaculatus (20% of recorded movements) was significantly greater than that of Rattus fuscipes and Antechinus flavipes (1.8% and 5.2% of movements, respectively). Melomys cervinipes was not recorded crossing the road under these conditions. R. fuscipes, M. cervinipes and A. flavipes were induced to cross the road more often when baited traps were placed on only one side of the road. The crossing rate of R. fuscipes was increased by translocating individuals across the road. The inhibition of movement caused by roads was attributed to psychological and/or sociological characteristics of the species and/or the individual rather than to the effect of a physical barrier. The results also indicate that the threat of genetic isolation of populations of these species dissected by roads less than 12 m wide is slight. However, less mobile species or wider roads may result in genetic isolation. Measures are suggested to alleviate the barrier effects of roads.
Alteration of the clutch size of raptors in response to a change in prey availability: evidence from control of a broad-scale rabbit infestation.
Authors: Olsen PD , Marples TG
Published: June 2005

The claim that the clutch size of three species of raptor-the wedge-tailed eagle (Aquila audax), little
eagle (Hieraaetus morphnoides) and brown goshawk (Accipiter fasciatus)-increased following the
introduction and spread of the rabbit (Oryctolagus cuniculus) in Western Australia was tested by
comparing historical data contained in oological collections for all 24 Australian diurnal raptors and
eight owls over three time-periods: before introduction of the rabbit, during the heyday of the rabbit,
and after successful broad-scale control. No significant changes were found in clutch size of the little
eagle either in Western Australia or more-southerly Australia in general. Clutch size of the wedge-tailed
eagle, brown goshawk and whistling kite (Haliastur sphenurus) decreased significantly after rabbit
control. Clutches of two eggs were more common for the wedge-tailed eagle and those of three and
four eggs were more prevalent for the brown goshawk when rabbits were uncontrolled than when
controlled. These changes were not due to a shift in laying date, suggesting instead an adaptive response
to changes in food availability.
Home-Range Size and Fidelity of Western Grey Kangaroos (Macropus Fuliginosus) Living in Remnants of Wandoo Woodland and Adjacent Farmland.
Authors: Arnold GW , Steven DE , Grassia A , Weeldenburg J
Published: June 2005

The home ranges were studied from 1977 to 1981 of western grey kangaroos (Macropus fuliginosus) living in a 300-ha remnant of wandoo [Eucalyptus wandoo] surrounded by farmland at Baker's Hill, Western Australia. The M. fuliginosus population varied from 140 to 200 animals during the study. In 1979, four females (>30 kg) and 2 adult males (31 kg and 47 kg) were fitted with radio-transmitters and their movements recorded. The home ranges of these animals varied from 39 to 70 ha; the average overlap in the area used during the day and that used at night was 16.4%. Many of the kangaroos fed on farmland at night. The night ranges of 51 marked kangaroos were recorded using a spotlight. The animals showed a strong fidelity to their home ranges. Only 3 males (about 5-yr-old) shifted their night ranges; the centres of the ranges moved only 600-800 m. Older males had significantly larger night ranges than younger males and females. Individual females and the younger males showed preferences for using particular access points to get onto farmland; the older males showed no preferences. The core areas of the night ranges of many adult females overlapped closely in 'groups', but there was no evidence of 'mob' home ranges that were socially separated.
Breeding and movements of wing-tagged silver gulls (Larus novaehollandiae) at the largest colony in New South Wales
Authors: Smith GC , Carlile N , Tully S
Published: June 2005

Wing tags were used in preference to colour/metal band combinations to increase sighting frequency
of silver gulls. Wing tags did not affect return rate of breeding adults to the colony compared with
banded gulls. Approximately one-third of gulls lost their nests following wing-tagging. There were no
instances of double-brooding with fledging success from both attempts. A total of 42% of adults that
returned and bred, nested more than once in a season. Up to 4 clutches were produced by pairs within
a season. Successful raising of young typically occurred from the first brood of the season. Successful
breeders usually nested only once in any one season. In all, 19% of pairs successfully fledged young,
but the percentage of young fledged from the number of eggs laid was much lower (5.3%). Nest sites
were rarely repeatedly used by the same nesting pair. Individuals moved considerable distances between
successive nesting sites within and between seasons. Fidelity to colony was 68% and to mate 22%;
these estimates are lower than those from other colonies.
The Impact of Fire and Increasing Time After Fire Upon Heleioporus Eyrei, Limnodynastes Dorsalis and Myobatrachus Gouldii (Anura: Leptodactylidae) in Banksia Woodland Near Perth, Western Australia.
Authors: Bamford MJ
Published: June 2005

Banksia woodland is a seasonally arid and fire-prone environment. Although a seemingly inhospitable environment for frogs, seven species were recorded in pitfall-trapping carried out in six areas of Banksia woodland near Perth from April 1983 to March 1986. These areas had different fire histories, ranging from recently burnt to unburnt for 23 years. One of the areas was burnt during the course of the study. Three species made up 95% of captures, viz. Heleioporus eyrei, Limnodynastes dorsalis and Myobatrachus gouldii. Annual numbers of captures of H. eyrei were not greatly affected by fire or increasing time after fire. L. dorsalis and, to a lesser extent, M. gouldii were caught in greater numbers in long-unburnt areas than in recently burnt areas. Variation in the abundance of L. dorsalis and M. gouldii with time after fire did not appear to be related to changes in leaf litter and vegetation density, or to the abundance of invertebrates as potential prey.
Feral Pigs, Rainforest Conservation and Exotic Disease in North Queensland.
Authors: Pavlov PM , Crome FHJ , Moore LA
Published: June 2005

Feral pigs [Sus scrofa] are perceived to cause considerable damage in the rain forests of NE Queensland. The distribution, biology and effects of feral pigs in the region were reviewed and the likely efficacy of control options assessed. Topics covered include parasites and diseases of pigs, and the effects of introduction of exotic livestock diseases (in particular foot and mouth disease). The results are presented of a survey of feral pigs in the Cooktown-Townsville area, Queensland carried out during January-May and May-September 1988. Sightings of pigs, presence of tracks, dung, wallows and areas of rooting were used as signs of pig activity. Some 80% of the transects showed signs of pig activity during at least one of the study periods.
Gradient analysis of the distribution of mammals in Stage III of Kakadu National Park, with a review of the distribution patterns of mammals across north-western Australia
Authors: Woinarski JCZ , Braithwaite RW , Menkhorst KA , Griffin S , Fishe r , Preece N
Published: June 2005

A total of 56 native mammal species (about one quarter of the species of land mammals known from
Australia) was recorded from the Stage III area of Kakadu National Park, Northern Territory. A single
environmental gradient (of substrate and disturbance) described well the distributions of species other
than bats from this area. For most species, there was little shift in gradient position between three
trapping periods (spaced over three years). The mammal fauna comprised a rocky upland assemblage,
a lowland monsoon rainforest-swamp assemblage, and an open forest-woodland assemblage. Mammal
diversity and abundance was greatest in the rocky uplands. The distribution of most bat species was
not clearly associated with this gradient.
The Stage III mammal fauna is compared with that described from elsewhere in north-western
Australia. Across this region, the fauna shows little variation with longitude, but undergoes substantial
latitudinal change in conjunction with a steep rainfall gradient. The habitat reSationships of the
Stage III mammal fauna are broadly repeated across north-western Australia. The fauna of sandstone
ranges is attenuated with decreasing size and increasing isolation of these ranges. The mammal fauna
of monsoon rainforests is depauperate, reflecting the small size and patchiness of this habitat. The
mammal fauna of open forest/woodland is characterised by extensive distributions of its constituent
species and a relative lack of arboreal folivores and small macropods.
Feeding ecology of green catbirds (Ailuroedus crassirostris) in subtropical rainforests of south-eastern Queensland.
Authors: Innis GJ , McEvoy J
Published: June 2005

Foraging data for green catbirds were collected over an 8-year period in lowland (dry) and upland (wet)
subtropical rainforests of the Jimna and Conondale Ranges. The fruits of 104 species of trees, palms
and vines comprised the bulk of the diet. Catbirds foraged the fruits of a similar number of species
(56) in lowland forest as in upland forest (60). Lowland forest was distinctive, however, in that almost
77% of the food plants occurring in upland forest were rare or absent in lowland forest. Catbirds
also foraged flowers, various plant material, insects and millipedes, and these were also significant
components of the diet during spring and summer. Different species of asynchronous fruiting figs
(Ficus spp.) occurred in lowland and upland forest, and these were the most important foods in each
forest type. In lowland forest, catbirds seldom ventured beyond their home ranges (average size
1.9+/-O.2 ha) to forage, and bred from December to March when figs were the only reliable fruit that
figured prominently in the diet. Insects also appeared to be an important (perhaps essential) component
of the nestling diet during this period. Long-term (5-10 years) data on the fruiting phenology of 94
of the food plants enabled the relationship between the fruiting reliability of food plants and their
importance in the diet to be evaluated. Availability of most (79% in lowland forest, 77% in upland
forest) species of fruit was irregular and foraging by catbirds was therefore mostly opportunistic.
Movements of grey-headed flying foxes (Pteropus poliocephalus) to and from colony site on the central coast of New South Wales
Authors: PArry-Jones KA , Augee ML
Published: June 2005

Movements and numbers of grey-headed flying foxes (Pteropus poliocephalus) were recorded in and
around a colony site on the central coast of New South Wales over a period of 53 months from 1986
to 1990. Daily departures from the site correlated primarily with the time of sunset. Annual occupation
cycles showed wide flutuations with only one fiied period, March-May, when a mating colony of at
least 20 000 bats was at the site. In most years a small nursery colony was present during October-
December. Superimposed on this reproductive use of the site were highly variable patterns of occupation
correlated with fluctuations in food supply. Local abundances of blossoms such as Angophorafloribunda
and Eucalyptus maculata resulted in colony numbers of at least 80 000 bats.
Sexing and aging silver gulls, Larus novaehollandiae
Authors: Smith GC , Carlile N , Tully S
Published: June 2005

Measurements of bill size differed between gulls from three widely separated Australian regions,
suggesting that there are a number of different subpopulations. When assigning an individual to a sex,
a geographical locality factor should be incorporated into the discriminant model.
Bill colour may be a useful tool for ageing gulls and detailed colour categories have been identified
which could be used to define relative ages. Free-flying gulls are here ascribed to one of seven
categories. Colour categories may not be universal; therefore, the population should be considered
region by region.
Migration of green (Chelonia mydas) and loggerhead (caretta caretta) turtles to and from eastern Australian rookeries
Authors: Limpus CJ , Miller JD , Paramenter CJ , Reimer D , McLachlan N , Webb R
Published: June 2005

Feeding-ground captures of green (Chelonia mydas) and loggerhead (Caretta caretta) turtles tagged while
nesting at eastern Australian rookeries over a 21-year period are summarised.
These turtles which nest in the Great Barrier Reef region range widely throughout the Arafura and
Coral seas. The tag recoveries include many from turtles that live in neighbouring countries and migrate
to breed in Australia. The breeding female shows a high fidelity to her home feeding ground as well
as to her nesting beach. Most recaptures of the green turtles occurred during hunting for food by
indigenous people while most recaptures of loggerhead turtles were incidental captures in commercial
fishing activities. Migratory behaviour, imprinting and navigation are discussed.
Habitat use and foraging behaviour of the scarlet robin and the flame robin at a site of breeding-season sympatry
Authors: Robinson D
Published: June 2005

The habitat selection and foraging ecology of scarlet robins (Petroica multicolor) and flame robins
(Petroica phoenicea) were observed for three years at a site of breeding-season sympatry in order to
examine seasonal patterns of foraging behaviour, habitat and resource use, and the significance of
competition for food as a cause of interspecific aggression. Both species occupied habitats with open
ground layers of grass or bark, and a sparse shrub-and-sapling layer. Flame robins occupied more mesic
habitats; scarlet robins occurred in drier habitats. Seven habitat variables provided 73% separation
between habitats occupied by the two species of robin. Both species foraged mostly on the ground
during the cooler months. In summer and autumn, scarlet robins became snatchers of arthropods from
bark and foliage substrates, and flame robins hawked for flying insects close to the ground. High
overlap between their use of available foraging space, especially vertical foraging space, probably
caused interspecific competition for food and space, leading to interspecific aggression and territorial
behaviour. Such competition, in conjunction with the flame robin's interspecific dominance and
apparently greater resilience to practices such as timber harvesting, may cause long-term changes to the
distribution and relative abundance of each species. Recommendations for habitat management are
considered briefly.
Breeding biology and movements of Australian sea-lions, Neophoca cinerea, off the west coasst of Western Australia
Authors: Gales NJ , Cheal AJ , Pobar GJ , Williamson P
Published: June 2005

The Australian sea-lion, Neophoca cinerea, has a 17-18-month breeding cycle on islands off the west
coast of Western Australia. Buller, North Fisherman and Beagle Is are the main pupping sites, with
several very small colonies (n> 3) at the Abrolhos Is. The 4-5-month pupping seasons are synchronised
at North Fisherman and Beagle Is, but the sea-lions from Buller I. breed one month later and those
from the Abrolhos Is two months earlier. Pup production and pup mortality were highly variable
between seasons over which observations were recorded: 129 pups were born at the main breeding sites
in early 1988, the mortality in the first five months was 7.1%, whereas 181 pups were born in late 1989
of which 24.3% died. Pups remain in the vicinity of their natal islands for the first 4-5 months of life
before leaving, perhaps on foraging trips, with their mothers. Most return to their natal island, although
others haulout on islands up to 27 km away. Some male N. cinerea congregate in bachelor colonies on
islands adjacent to the Perth metropolitan region during the non-breeding season and migrate up to
280 km north each breeding season.
The status of the isolated, west-coast N. cinerea population is unknown. The current high level of
human pressure on sea-lion terrestrial habitats and their food resources indicate a need for further
monitoring of this species.
Silver gull breeding at two colonies in the Sydney-Wollongong regio, Australia
Authors: Smith GC , Carlile N
Published: June 2005

Silver gulls have increased in abundance in Sydney-Wollongong this century. Both the number of
colonies and their sizes have grown. The largest colony of 43 000-50000 pairs is on Big I., off
Wollongong. Breeding was compared at this colony with that at a satellite colony on artificial structures
in Rozelle Bay, Sydney Harbour. Breeding occurred from July to February at Big I., a lengthening of
the season since the 1960s. At Rozelle Bay, breeding occurred almost all year round. Egg and clutch
size varied within and between years at Big I. First-eggs of clutches, laid during the first breeding peak,
were significantly larger than those laid later in each breeding season. The size of third-eggs in clutches
differed between years. It is proposed that these disparities were a result of differences in food
availability between years. Clutch sizes were significantly larger during the first breeding peak than
later clutches of each season. Clutch size was larger at Rozelle Bay. Variation in clutch size was
linked to quality of individuals and food availability. Breeding success at colonies was low, indicating
that carrying capacities have been reached.
A new trap design for catching freshwater turtles
Authors: Kennet R
Published: June 2005

Unlike conventional hoop traps used to catch freshwater turtles, this new design is largely escape-proof.
Attracted by bait, turtles enter via a conventional funnel-shaped entrance and exit into a second
compartment through a no-return swing door. In comparison with a conventional hoop trap, this new
design substantially improved capture rates and reduced labour hours involved in checking traps.
Traps are collapsible and can be erected on site.
The behavioural ecology of dingoes in north-western Australia. II. Activity patterns, breeding season and pup rearing
Authors: Thomson PC
Published: June 2005

This paper reports aspects of a long-term study (1975-84) of the ecology, social organisation and
behaviour of dingoes, Canis familiaris dingo, on the lower Fortescue River in Western Australia. In all,
170 dingoes were fitted with radio-collars and tracked from aircraft. Dingoes were sighted during 59%
of the 13 618 occasions that they were being radio-tracked during the day. Radio-tracking yielded
31 229 daytime and 3016 night-time locations of radio-collared dingoes. The average duration of radio
contact with 146 dingoes was 9 months (range 1-35 months). Dingoes were most active around
sunrise and sunset, moderately active during the night, and least active during the heat of the day.
Travelling (local meandering and more purposeful movement) was the most commonly witnessed activity.
Levels of scent-marking (raised-leg urination and ground-scratching), howling and general activity
increased over the 2-3 months prior to the mating period, suggesting that dingoes may have a long
pro-oestrus (1-2 months). Whelping took place from mid-May to mid-August (mean date 18 July).
The characteristics of natal dens are described. The pattern of activities associated with pup-rearing,
including alloparental behaviour, closely followed that of related canids.
Past and present distribution and abundance of the black-footed wallaby in the Warburton region of Western Australia
Authors: Pearson DJ
Published: June 2005

The black-footed rock-wallaby (Petrogale lateralis) was once widespread and abundant in rock-piles
and ranges in the Warburton region of Western Australia. However, by the 1970s a major decline in
its distribution and abundance was apparent. Ranges and rock outcrops were searched with local
Aboriginal people to document the past and present distribution and abundance of the species and
Aboriginal knowledge of its ecology. The journals of explorers, prospectors and surveyors were
examined for records of rock-wallabies. Geologists, dingo trappers and other people who had worked
in the region since 1930 were interviewed to document more recent sightings. Extant, small populations
of rock-wallabies were located in six ranges, where they were inhabiting extensive gabbro rock-piles and
rugged quartzite gullies, often in close proximity to permanent water. None of the granite outcrops
visited had extant populations. Continuing local extinctions suggest that surviving populations are under
threat and management intervention is required for their long term conservation.
Home Ranges of Feral Goats in a Pastoral Area in Western Australia.
Authors: King D
Published: June 2005

Home ranges of feral goats studied by radio-telemetry in a pastoral area in Western Australia were
much larger than those found in most other studies. Home ranges of males were larger (ranging from
139.2 to 587.7km*2) than those of females, which ranged from 15.0 to 190.2km*2. Excursions outside
the normal (90 percentile) home ranges were common. The home ranges of females were smaller during
summer than during winter. Male home ranges were of similar size in both seasons. Group structure
and composition was highly variable. Implications of goat movements on management and control
programmes are discussed.
Biogeography and conservation of reptiles, mammals and birds across north-western Australia: an inventory and base for planning an ecological reserve system
Authors: Woinarski JCZ
Published: June 2005

The distributions of mammals (94 spp. =38% of the Australian total), land birds (252 spp. =52%),
and terrestrial reptiles (269 spp. = 39%) in north-western Australia are analysed. Of these species, 133
(mostly reptiles) are restricted to this region. Reptiles (and especially endemic species) characteristically
have small ranges in this area. For all three groups, diversity is highest in coastal, high rainfall areas
(especially of Arnhem Land and the northern Kimberley). Such areas are relatively well represented in
the existing nature reserve system. Assemblages of species are mapped, on the basis of classification
of the 123 lo latitude by lo longitude cells in the region. For both mammal and bird species, four
defined assemblages were distributed in high rainfall coastal areas, inland low rainfall areas and two
transitional zones, all extending over a broad east-west span. Reptile assemblages show a similar
initial (wet-dry) division, but then split into east and west subdivisions. For all three animal groups,
transitional and inland assemblages are poorly reserved (<0.25% of land area).
A total of 58 reserves occur in the region. Most are small (median 24km*2) and concentrated around
population centres. Biological information is lacking for most reserves. Largely because of the dispersion
of existing reserves, almost one quarter of the species considered (and about the same proportion of
endemic species) are not known to occur in any conservation reserve in the region. Priorities are
assigned for the placement of future reserves. The most significant additions should be in the north
Kimberley, south-west Kimberley, northern fringe of the Tanami Desert, Gulf of Carpentaria hinterland
and eastern Arnhem Land.
The conservation of this fauna is not dependent solely on the provision of a park network, but
demands also informed management of reserves and adequate environmental protection of land
outside reserves.
Daily distance travelled and foraging areas of Varanus gouldii (Reptilia : Varanidae) in a semi-urban environment
Authors: Thompson G
Published: June 2005

The foraging areas of Varanus gouldii were monitored by the spool-and-line technique over 51 consecutive
days during October and November 1990 in Karrakatta Cemetery, Perth, Western Australia.
The daily distance travelled by lizards varied markedly. The mean distance travelled was 111 -6m for
days that varanids moved from their burrows. There was a weak positive correlation between the daily
distance travelled and the maximum daily temperature and hours of daily sunshine. Some varanids
moved their foraging areas from open unshaded sections of the cemetery into a more heavily treed area
in November. The size of the daily foraging area for small varanids (<600g) was extremely variable
(estimated median 300m*2); areas were greater in November than October. Some varanids moved to
different foraging areas every few days.