bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Foods of the Long-Billed Corella
Authors: Temby ID , Emison WB
Published: June 2005

The long-billed corella has adapted to the loss of its native foods by incorporating into its diet plants which
were introduced to Australia by the European colonists. Analyses of the contents of crops and proventriculi
from 314 long-billed corellas which were collected during a period of almost 7 years in western Victoria
indicated that, on a volume basis, more than 90% of the diet is now composed of cereal grains, sunflower
and thistle seeds, and the corms of an introduced weed (onion grass, Romulea spp.).
Diet of the Murray Turtle, Emydura-Macquarii (Gray) (Testudines, Chelidae)
Authors: Chessman BC
Published: June 2005

Examination of the stomach contents of 122 E. macquarii from the Murray River, Lake Boga and other
waters in northern Victoria and southern New South Wales showed that this species is an opportunistic
omnivore. In order of decreasing importance the main food types were filamentous algae, vertebrate (mainly
fish) carrion, detritus, periphyton (including sponges), mobile aquatic invertebrates, aquatic macrophytes and
terrestrial invertebrates. There was a degree of dietary shift with turtle size, small specimens containing more
detritus and periphyton and less filamentous algae, macrophytes and carrion than bigger ones. The diets of
mature males and females did not differ appreciably. Diel changes in stomach content volumes indicated
that E. macquarii feeds mainly during the daytime.
Population-Dynamics and Status of Crocodylus-Porosus in the Tidal Waterways of Northern Australia
Authors: Messel H , Vorlicek GC
Published: June 2005

The results of 10 years of systematic, standardized, night-time surveys of C. porosus in c. 100 tidal waterways
in northern Australia are presented. One group of waterways in Arnhem Land has been studied intensively,
especially over the last 4 years; others have been surveyed at least once and many several times. The results
indicate a basically steady total population, with some signs of an increase in the proportion of large animals.
As total protection has been accorded C. porosus since 1972, these results are perhaps surprising. The results
of our surveys and studies have allowed a picture of C. porosus population dynamics in northern Australia
to be developed, and this is presented in some detail. It enables us to account in a consistent fashion for
the results of the surveys and to predict results to be expected on future surveys. The results also enable
us to make an assessment of the overall status of C. porosus in northern Australia, and of the prospects
for recovery of the population. Management implications of the results and population model are also discussed.
The Diurnal and Seasonal Patterns of Grazing of the Red Kangaroo, Macropus-Rufus, and the Western Gray-Kangaroo, Macropus-Fuliginosus
Authors: Priddel D
Published: June 2005

Free-ranging red and western grey kangaroos were fitted with radio transmitters which, when the kangaroo
grazed, emitted a pulse rate different to that emitted during other activities. Red kangaroos grazed for between
7.1 and 10.5 h day-1; western grey kangaroos grazed for between 5.9 and 9.8 h day-1 . Red kangaroos
grazed for the same amount of time each season despite fourfold changes in pasture biomass. The grazing
time of western grey kangaroos was similar in autumn, winter and spring, but decreased by 22% in summer
when pasture was most abundant. Males of both species grazed for about an hour longer than females
each day. Most grazing (78% for red kangaroos; 86% for western grey kangaroos) took place between sunset
and sunrise. The distribution of grazing activity with respect to time of day was bimodal; kangaroos grazed
for extensive periods during the 6 h immediately after sunset and again during the few hours before and
after sunrise. The time of grazing changed seasonally and these changes were associated with differences
in daylength.
Accuracy of the Multiple-Regression Method for Estimating Population-Density in Strip Transects
Authors: Hone J
Published: June 2005

Two experiments examined the accuracy of the multiple regression method for estimating population density.
In experiment I , in a balanced design, an observer counted objectsin simulated strip transects. Multiple
regression analyses yielded accurate estimates when true density was low, and overestimated density when
true density was high. Regression equations calculated at each level of true density varied from linear to
quadratic. A simple polynomial model accurately estimated true density. In experiment 2 an aerial survey
of sheep showed that estimated density was highly significantly (P <0.001) different from true density.
The results suggest that greater use should be made of established criteria for robust estimation of true
density in transect studies.
The Effectiveness of Aerial Baiting for the Control of Dingoes in North-Western Australia
Authors: Thomson PC
Published: June 2005

Radiotracking was used to evaluate the effectiveness of aerial baiting in controlling populations of wild dingoes, Canisfamiliaris dingo. Four baitings were carried out in the West Pilbara region of Western Australia, using fresh-meat baits or factory-produced baits, poisoned with compound 1080. In one trial fresh-meat baits killed all 18 radio-collared dingoes; in another, factory baits killed 63% of radio-collared dingoes; in a third, 62% were killed by factory and fresh-meat baits. The factors considered to be most important in influencing the results of these trials included the number and distribution of baits dropped, bait type, and the age and social status of dingoes. Aerial baiting was shown to be an efficient and cost-effective dingo control technique under the conditions existing during the study. The long-term effects on the dingo population are discussed.
Myxomatosis - Nongenetic Aspects of Resistance to Myxomatosis in Rabbits, Oryctolagus-Cuniculus
Authors: Sobey WR , Conolly D
Published: June 2005

Evidence is presented which suggests the transmission by bucks which have recovered from myxomatosis
of a factor which confers on their offspring a non-genetic survival advantage against myxomatosis.
This factor appears to be transmitted also to the offspring of does which have previously been mated to
recovered bucks and then to non-recovered bucks. This advantage was greatest where a buck and his offspring
had been exposed to the same virus strain. Fibroma immunization of bucks appears to remove this factor.
It is suggested that much of the observed resistance in rabbit populations may be due to this non-genetic
factor rather than to genetic resistance, and that resistance, at least in a domestic population selected for
resistance, rose quickly initially and then very slowly.
A Field Assessment of the Anticoagulant Brodifacoum Against Rabbits, Oryctolagus-Cuniculus
Authors: Crosbie SF , Laas FJ , Godfrey MER , Williams JM , Moore DS
Published: June 2005

The effectiveness of 100 p.p.m. brodifacoum for controlling an island population of rabbits was assessed
and compared with that of 200 p.p.m. 1080 (sodium monofluoroacetate). Both compounds were applied
in an apple-based, raspberry-flavoured jam bait after pre-feeding with the same non-toxic bait. Brodifacoum
and 1080 both reduced rabbit populations by 85% on average, compared with an average 'natural' decline
of 34% on untreated sites; these estimates of poisoning mortality may be considered conservative, however,
because of post-poisoning migration onto poisoned sites.
Identification and Development of the Nestling Cuckoos, Chrysoccyx-Basalis and Clucidus-Plagosus, in Western-Australia
Authors: Brooker M , Brooker L
Published: June 2005

Criteria for distinguishing between the nestlings of the cuckoos, Chrysococcyx basalis and C. lucidus plagosus,
are presented. Aging parameters based on three body measurements are given. The development of the
feather tracts is outlined.
An Evaluation of the Strip Transect Method for Censusing Bird Communities in Forests
Authors: Harden RH , Muir RJ , Milledge DR
Published: June 2005

The effects of varying transect width and census duration on the number of birds counted, the density
estimate, number of species detected and the percentage of unidentified birds were examined in rainforest
and wet sclerophyll forest at Mount Nardi in northern New South Wales. The nine combinations of three
strip widths (40, 60 and 80 m) and three durations of census (24, 18 and 12 min) were compared in
200-m-long transects in each forest. The census of birds was more sensitive to changes in census duration
than in strip width, and the effects were greater in the rainforest than the wet sclerophyll forest. Both the
precision of the density estimates and the number of species detected were highest for the narrowest strips
censused for the longest time. The bias of the density estimate varied with the treatments both within and
between forests, and thus the strip transect could not be used to compare them. We suggest that variation
in bias between sites may be a problem common to all transect counts of birds.
An Aerial Survey of 3 Game Species of Waterfowl (Family Anatidae) Populations in Eastern Australia
Authors: Braithwaite LW , Maher M , Briggs SV , Parker BS
Published: June 2005

Populations of waterfowl of three game species, the Pacific black duck Anus superciliosa, grey teal
A. gibberifrons, and maned duck Chenonetta jubata, were assessed by aerial survey in October 1983
within a survey region of 2 697 000 km2 of eastern Australia. The numbers of each species were
assessed on all surface waters of over 1 ha, and on a sample of smaller surface waters within 10 survey
bands each 30 km wide and spaced at intervals of 2� latitude from 20�30' to 38�30'S. The area within
the survey bands was 324 120 km2, which gave a sampling intensity of 12.0% of the land surface area.
The area of features shown as wetlands or water impoundments within the survey bands on 1 : 2 500 000
topographic maps was 19 200 km2 or 11.2% of the total area of these features in the survey region.
The area of surface waters surveyed was assessed at 465 300 ha. Assessments of populations of each species
were tallied for wetlands by grid cells of 6 min of 1� longitude along the survey bands (258-309 km2
depending on latitude). Distributions were then mapped, with log*10 indices of populations in each cell.
Distributions of the black duck and grey teal showed a pattern of intense aggregation in limited numbers
of cells, that of the maned duck was more evenly distributed. The major concentrations of the Pacific black
duck were recorded in northern New South Wales and the south-eastern, western, central eastern and
central coastal regions of Queensland; those of the grey teal were in south-western, western and northern
New South Wales and central-eastern Queensland; the maned duck was broadly distributed over inland
New South Wales with the exception of the far west, inland southern Queensland, and central northern
Victoria.
Seasonal Occurrence of Members of the Suborder Charadrii (Waders or Shorebirds) on Rottnest Island, Western-Australia
Authors: Saunders DA , Derebeira CP
Published: June 2005

Rottnest I., 1900 ha in area and 18 km off the Swan Coastal Plain, has 32 km of coast and 10% of its
area consisting of a complex of hypersaline lakes and brackish swamps. The Charadrii (waders or shorebirds)
using these habitats were censused between December 1981 and October 1984, and the results of these
censuses were compared with data collected between 1953 and 1962. Twenty-two species of wader occurred
on the island between 1981 and 1984; of these, four bred on the island, nine were regular migrants (eight
being transequatorial) and nine (eight transequatorial) were rare. There were several changes in status between
the earlier and later surveys: the eastern golden plover, large-billed dotterel and sharp-tailed sandpiper were
all regular visitors in the 1950s but were rare or absent in the 1980s; the pied oystercatcher had become
more common on the island; the red-necked avocet, formerly rare, had started breeding on the island; and
the grey-tailed tattler and bar-tailed godwit had become regular migrants in small numbers. The effects
of loss of suitable habitat on the adjacent mainland, and the importance of the island as a conservation
area, are discussed.
Clutch Size and Productivity in 3 Sympatric Species of Cockatoo (Psittaciformes) in the Southwest of Western-Australia
Authors: Smith GT , Saunders DA
Published: June 2005

The galah, long-billed corella and red-tailed black cockatoo coexist throughout much of the northern
wheatbelt of Western Australia. Various aspects of the breeding biology of these species were studied at
Burakin and Three Springs in 1979. Laying began at the same time of year in all three, although the peak
was later and the length of the laying period longer for the red-tailed black cockatoo. Data are given on
clutch size, hatching success, nestling mortality, nestling period, fledging weight and productivity for each
species at both study sites. The only significant differences between study areas were that the fledging weight
and productivity of the galah were greater at Burakin than at Three Springs. Productivity was severely
reduced in the galah by an unidentified nestling disease, and in the red-tailed black cockatoo by high infertility
and nestling mortality of unknown cause. Between the species, incubation period and fledging period
increased with body size but clutch size decreased with body size.
Habitat Selection by 2 Closely Related Skinks, Egernia-Modesta Storr and Egernia-Whitii Lacepede (Lacertilia, Scincidae)
Authors: Milton DA , Hughes JM
Published: June 2005

'The habitat and microhabitat preferences, and times of activity, of the skinks Egernia modesta and E. whitii were examined in southern Queensland where they coexist in a narrow zone. The above parameters were compared between locally sympatric and allopatric populations, in an attempt to determine whether there was evidence of niche separation in sympatry. E. modesta preferred open habitats with little canopy cover and high grass cover, adjacent to rocky retreats. E. whitii preferred rocky areas with well developed canopy and shrub layers. Both species were active throughout the day, although E. modesta was active later than E. whitii. No evidence was found of competition restricting habitat preferences where the two species coexisted. It is suggested that human disturbance has had some influence on current distributions of these species.
Diet of the Fresh-Water Turtle Chelodina-Longicollis (Testudines, Chelidae) From the Coastal Dune Lakes of the Jervis Bay Territory
Authors: Georges a , Norris RH , Wensing L
Published: June 2005

Chelodina longicollis is an opportunistic carnivore that obtains its food from a wide variety of sourcesplankton,
nekton, benthic macro-organisms, carrion, and terrestrial organisms that fall upon the water.
Although there are some quantitative differences between the littoral components of the diet and the composition
of the littoral fauna, these can be attributed to differences in accessibility or 'noticeability' among prey species.
There is no evidence to suggest that C, longicollis is selective in what it eats, within the confines of carnivory.
Comparison of the diet of C. longicollis with those of other sympatric chelids reveals considerable overlap;
the relevance of this to geographic variation in abundance of the species is discussed.
Estimating the Abundance of Saltwater Crocodiles, Crocodylus-Porosus Schneider, in Tidal Wetlands of the Northern Territory - a Mark-Recapture Experiment to Correct Spotlight Counts to Absolute Numbers, and the Calibration of Helicopter and Spotlight Coun
Authors: Bayliss P , Webb GJW , Whitehead PJ , Dempsey K , Smith A
Published: June 2005

A mark-recapture experiment was used to estimate the total population of crocodiles in four 10-km sections
of the Adelaide River; a downstream and upstream section of the mainstream, and two sections of tidal
side creeks. The Petersen Estimate yielded 135 � 5 (SE) crocodiles in the downstream river section, 54 � 6
in the upstream section, and 44 � 2 in the two side creeks combined (approximately 22 crocodiles per
10 km of side creek). For the two mainstream sections and the combined creek sections, respectively,
66%, 59%, and 35% of crocodiles present were sighted in a typical spotlight survey. The probability of
sighting a crocodile decreased with increasing density of bank vegetation, with decreasing stream width,
and with increasing stream sinuosity. Detection of crocodiles in the downstream river section was also affected
by size-related wariness: the probability of detecting hatchlings was large (P = 0.69), and for crocodiles
longer than 3.0 m, small (P = 0.15).
Diurnal counts of crocodiles from a helicopter were calibrated to spotlight counts from a boat at low
tide in a 40-km mainstream section and four tidal side creeks of the Adelaide River system. In river habitats
with large exposed mudbanks, aerial observers missed 20-33% of sightable crocodiles in their field of view;
and in side creeks lined with dense mangroves, 33-75%. When corrected for this observer bias, helicopter
surveys in the mainstream at low spring tide produced similar counts to spotlight surveys. In the mainstream,
helicopter counts at low neap tide were 37% lower than spotlight counts at low spring tide, but in side
creeks were 45% higher. In comparison with spotlight counts, only 18% and 29% of crocodiles were seen .
from a helicopter in two densely vegetated freshwater billabongs. A feasibility survey showed that in remote
areas helicopter surveys produced counts of crocodiles similar to those by spotlight surveys from boats,
and cost one-quarter as much ($7 km-1 compared with $28 km-1 of habitat surveyed).
Use of Nest Boxes by Mardos, Antechinus-Flavipes-Leucogaster, in Regenerating Karri Forest in South Western Australia
Authors: Wardelljohnson G
Published: June 2005

All of 36 nest boxes set in 16-y-old regenerating karri forest showed some use by mardos during the
spring and summer of 1982-83. Two periods of use were recognized. The first, between late September
and early January, was by breeding adult female mardos. Females had 8 young and breeding was
synchronous. The numbers of juveniles declined during their period of dependence. The daily activity
pattern of an adult female with active young was constant over 21 days of recording. A short interval
of lesser use preceded the second period of activity, which was associated with the dispersal phase of
juveniles from early February to early April. The use of boxes declined during the winter. A similar
pattern of box use was observed during inspections of the nest boxes during 1983-84. Boxes set at three
other sites, with different management histories, in the karri forest were used less than those in the
16-y-old regeneration. Explanations of variable use between sites are presented.
Comparison of Numbers of Rattus-Fuscipes Living in Cool Temperate Rain-Forests and Dry Sclerophyll Forests
Authors: Press AJ
Published: June 2005

Replicated sampling regimes were used to assess the numbers of Rattus fuscipes in cool temperate rainforests
and dry sclerophyll forests, on Gloucester Tops, N.S.W. R. fuscipes was significantly more abundant
in the rainforest habitat than in the sclerophyll habitat, and this result was consistent under a number
of different sampling regimes. Numbers changed significantly between April 1978 and March 1980, but
the patterns of change were similar in each habitat. Fire and logging contributed to the spatial and temporal
heterogeneity of the Gloucester Tops, and the cool temperate rainforests appeared to be more protected
from disturbance than the dry sclerophyll forests. The cool temperate rainforests may be important refuges
for populations of R. fuscipes, and may provide recruits for areas of sclerophyll forest the populations
of which have been reduced by logging or fire.
Observations on the Flight Patterns and Foraging Behavior of Tasmanian Bats
Authors: Oneill MG , Taylor RJ
Published: June 2005

Observations were made on the flight patterns and foraging behaviour of Tasmanian bat species, by
the use of light tags and the release of individuals at dusk while it was still light enough to see clearly.
Four distinct foraging patterns were observed, each being characteristic of a pair of species. These pairs
were: Nyctophrlusgeoffroyi and N. timoriensis (slowest flight, undulating, closest to vegetation); Eptesicus
vulturnus and E. regulus (highly manoeuvrable, faster than Nyctophilus, further from vegetation);
E. sagittula and Chalinolobus morio (fast, direct flight, less manoeuvrable than smaller Eptesicus and
fly higher); and Pipistrellus tasmaniensis and C. gouldii (faster, most direct flight, limited manoeuvrability,
prefer open areas). There is a broad agreement between the flight patterns observed and the relative
shape of the wing of each species.
The Diet of the Introduced Rodents Mus-Musculus L and Rattus-Rattus L on Sub-Antarctic Macquarie Island
Authors: Copson GR
Published: June 2005

The diets of Mus musculus and Rattus rattus on Macquarie I . were investigated by analysis of stomach
contents collected monthly for 12 months. The diet of the house mouse was found to be mainly invertebrate
matter but that of the ship rat was mainly plant material. Seasonal variations were found in both diets
but were greater in that of the ship rat than that of the house mouse.
Food of the Short-Tailed Shearwater, Puffinus-Tenuirostris, in Tasmania
Authors: Skira IJ
Published: June 2005

Food from stomachs of 396 short-tailed shearwaters collected at three colonies was analysed. The main
food items found were the euphausiid Nyctiphanes australis, and arrow squid Notodarus sloani gouldi,
with fish, other crustaceans and squids forming a minor part of the diet. Plastic particles were common
particularly at the beginning of the breeding season but gradually decreased in frequency as the season
progressed.
Reproduction in Peradorcas-Concinna (Marsupialia, Macropodidae)
Authors: Nelson JE , Goldstone A
Published: June 2005

The length of the oestrous cycle in captive Peradorcas concinna was 33.73 � 1.65 days (n = 52).
Females which were dominant over other females or were alone with their young had a cycle length of
about 32 days and subordinate females had a cycle length of about 35 days. Some observations on the
growth of the young are presented. Weaning is very abrupt; final pouch exit occurs about 2 weeks after
the first pouch exit, and is caused by the female's aggressiveness towards its young.
Evaluation of a Decline in Population of the Koala, Phascolarctos-Cinereus (Goldfuss) in Ventnor Reserve, Phillip I Vic, by Means of a Triple-Count Technique
Authors: Every KR
Published: June 2005

A decline in the koala population on Phillip I , has been evident for some time. This study, in an area
set apart from public access, quantifies some aspects of this decline. A triple-count technique for a closed
population model, with the freedom that the probability of sighting can vary between the surveys, was
used to obtain an estimate of the population within a 65-ha study area. The initial population, in June
1980, was estimated to be 117; this declined to 62 in 3.5 years, during which period 23 deaths and
24 births were recorded. The decline, which averaged 16 koalas per year, is discussed in terms of the
low birth rate, of dispersal, and of the contribution of predation by dogs to the death rate.
The Effect on Wild Dogs, Canis-F-Familiaris, of 1080-Poisoning Campaigns in Kosciusko-National-Park, Nsw
Authors: Mcilroy JC , Cooper RJ , Gifford EJ , Green BF , Newgrain KW
Published: June 2005

Nine wild dogs, Canis f. familiaris, radio-tracked over periods of 28-61 days in Kosciusko National Park,
N.S.W., occupied home ranges of 220-5420 ha (mean 2193 ha). These home ranges were similar in size
to those observed for dingoes, C. f. dingo, in other areas of south-eastern Australia. The maximum
distance that any of the nine dogs moved between successive daily locations was 11.2 km. On the basis
of this information and that obtained by others, we suggest that the control of wild dogs on Crown
Land in south-eastern Australia should be confined to those areas adjacent to private grazing land.
Furthermore, a control zone 12-20 km wide should be adequate.
Two successive trail-baiting campaigns with 1080 poison in March and April 1982 killed only two
(22%) of the nine wild dogs carrying radio transmitters. Traps, in comparison, caught 15 out of 27 (56%)
of the dogs known to be in the area. The main factors which reduced the success of the poisoning
campaign were the rapid loss of toxicity of the baits after their distribution, the rapid rate at which
they were removed by other animals, particularly foxes Vulpes vulpes and birds, and the dogs' apparent
preference for natural prey.
Biology of Rabbits, Oryctolagus-Cuniculus, in Subtropical Queensland
Authors: Parer I , Fullagar PJ
Published: June 2005

Capture-recapture estimates of the density of adult rabbits on an aeolian sand ridge near Mitchell in
Queensland varied from four to seven per hectare over 18 months. The density of adult plus young rabbits
peaked at 15 per hectare. Adult weights were high and the weights of adult males showed little seasonal
variation. Young rabbits grew at a constant rate of 9.1 g day-1 until they reached a body weight of
1400 g. In the breeding season following a dry period there was a general synchrony of successive
conceptions throughout the breeding season. For rabbits weighing more than 1400 g the sex ratio was
biased towards males; for rabbits of less than 750 g there were more females than males. Immature rabbits
dispersed more frequently than adults, and immature males dispersed more frequently than immature
females.
Water, Sodium and Energy Turnover in Free-Living Perenties, Varanus-Giganteus
Authors: Green B , King D , Butler H
Published: June 2005

Isotope turnover rates of perenties, Varanus giganteus, were determined during two consecutive summers
on Barrow I., W.A. The turnover rates were significantly lower in the first summer than those in the
second, and there were considerable differences in turnover rates between individuals in both years.
Estimated rates of prey consumption were 7.3 and 36.4 g kg- day-l , respectively, during the two
summers, and perenties were more active during the second summer. The mean daily energy expenditure
for a 10-kg perentie was much higher in both years than that predicted by allometric equations for reptiles,
which illustrates the need for obtaining data from larger species of reptiles in determining allometric
relationships.
The Diets and Dietary Preferences of Rattus-Fuscipes and Rattus-Lutreolus at Walkerville in Victoria
Authors: Cheal DC
Published: June 2005

The diets of Rattus fuscipes and R. lutreolus from a site in central southern Victoria were investigated
by faecal analysis. R. lutreolus was predominantly herbivorous; in heath it selected the basal stems
of certain cyperaceous herbs, and in forest it ate non-sclerophyllous grasses. Fungi were an important
dietary component and seed might be eaten in some quantity for a short time in spring and early summer.
R. fuscipes showed little dietary overlap with R. lutreolus; in forest it was reliant on fungi and fibrous
plant material from particular grasses; in heath it relied on particular cyperaceous species in winter, and
ate primarily fleshy fruit, seed and arthropods in summer. Dietary preferences are compared with the
relative abundance of diet items in the habitat. Both species are selective, and this selectivity changes
with season. The effects of the availability of preferred diet items on the species' distributions are discussed.
Eye-Lens Weight as an Indicator of Age in Australian Goats, Capra-Hircus L
Authors: Henzell R
Published: June 2005

The age in days of goats from Canegrass Station, S.A., and Condobolin, N.S.W., can be estimated from
their paired dry eye-lens weights (E, in grams) by the formula: A = (357.5+46 lnE)/(0.002714-InE),
where A is age since conception. The formula is based mainly on the eye-lens weights of 88 feral goats
from Canegrass whose ages had been estimated by a method based on reproductive patterns. These data
were supplemented by the lens weights of 20 known-age domestic goats from Condobolin. The formula
incorporates an adjustment to reduce statistical bias. The lenses in goats from Avenue Range, S.A.,
grew at a different rate. The relationship between eye-lens weight and age was not influenced by differences
in sex or rate of body growth.
Feeding Ecology of the Cockatiel, Nymphicus-Hollandicus, in a Grain-Growing Area
Authors: Jones D
Published: June 2005

The feeding ecology of the cockatiel Nymphicus hollandicus was studied in a grain-growing district near
Moree, in northern New South Wales, between August 1980 and June 1982, by direct observations and
monthly collections of birds in feeding flocks. Cockatiels fed from the ground, on fallen seed or by
felling stems, and, when feeding on sorghum and sunflowers, while perched on the seed heads. The mean
size of a feeding flock was 27; large flocks of more than 100 birds were formed only during periods
of limited food supply. Cockatiels showed a clear preference for sorghum over sunflowers, and when
on cereals they appeared to prefer softer, younger seed to harder, mature seed. Overall they fed on
29 seed types, including four grain-crops, 17 grasses and eight non-grass ground plants. Sorghum was
by far the most important food item, making up almost 60% of total crop contents; sunflower made
up only 6% of crop contents, and grasses 19.3%; 90% of this last was contributed by Phalarisparadoxa
and Setar~a sp. Some management implications, based on apparent food preferences, are discussed.
Macropod studies at Wallaby Creek. 4. Home range and movements of the red-necked wallaby
Authors: Johnson C. N.
Published: June 2005

Red-necked wallabies were observed to live in small home ranges, the locations of which changed little from season to season and from year to year. Home ranges were situated in places where open areas, used for feeding, lay close to the cover offered by dense vegetation and gullies. The home ranges of medium-sized males tended to be peripheral to areas preferred by females, and by larger and smaller males. Females tended to shift their home ranges towards the edges of large beds of cover as their infants left the pouch. The home ranges of males were larger than those of females, and body size and homerange size were positively correlated among males. Females used larger home ranges in winter than in summer.
Food and reproduction of wild house mice. 1. Diet and breeding seasons in various habitats on irrigated cereal farms in New South Wales
Authors: Bomford M.
Published: June 2005

The diet and breeding seasons of house mice, Mus musculus L., were monitored for 16 months in six habitats on two cereal farms: fields of barley, wheat, sorghum and rice stubble, and contour banks in rice fields, and channel banks. In all habitats mice were mainly granivorous. Because of rotational cropping and irrigation, seeds were available in different habitats in each season and this was reflected in the diets. Cereal grains spilt at harvest and other stale seeds were the main food in the nonbreeding season. It is proposed that the low quality of this food limited breeding. When milk-ripe grass seeds became available, mice switched to this fresh food, and started breeding about 1 month later. The onset of breeding was asynchronous between different habitats; this suggests that time of onset of breeding was determined by availability of food.
Food and reproduction of wild house mice. 2. A field experiment to examine the effect of food availability and food quality on breeding in spring
Authors: Bomford M.
Published: June 2005

Free-ranging populations of house mice, Mus musculus L., on contour banks in a rice field in New South Wales were provided with three types of supplementary food of differing nutritional quality for 10 weeks in spring. Four live-trapping sessions were conducted 3-10 weeks after supplementary feeding started. The percentage of females breeding averaged 47% on banks with supplementary food, and 0% on control banks with no supplementary food. The quality of the supplementary food did not affect breeding performance. It is concluded that breeding in rice fields in spring is limited by the food supply, and it is probably the supply of energy, rather than that of specific nutrients, that is limiting.
Reproduction in Captive Wallaroos - the Eastern Wallaroo, Macropus-Robustus-Robustus, the Euro, Macropus-Robustus-Erubescens and the Antilopine Wallaroo, Macropus-Antilopinus
Authors: Poole WE , Merchant JC
Published: June 2005

Wallaroos were bred in captivity during almost 20 years. Individual males attained sexual maturity at
between 18 and 20 months old and females at between 14 and 24 months old; both sexes were capable
of breeding throughout the year. Gestation was 30-38 d and extended almost the full length of the
oestrous cycle, 31-46 d. Post-partum mating usually produced a blastocyst subject to lactational
quiescence. Removal or loss of a pouch young usually resulted in birth 28-32 d later but up to 41 d
later in the presence of an actively suckled young-at-foot. Pouch life ranged between 231 and 270 d,
with vacation of the pouch usually followed by another birth 1-14 d later. Lactation exceeded 12-14
months but suckling had waned by 15-17 months. Reproductive patterns for M. r. robustus and M. r.
erubescens were similar although significant differences between the subspecies were recorded in length
of oestrous cycle, the interval from loss of pouch young to birth and post-partum oestrus, the length
of pouch life and the time between vacation of the pouch and birth. In addition, the reproductive
activity of hybrids produced by matings between the subspecies was observed, as was that of a limited
number of M. antilopinus.
Socio-Ecology of the Antilopine Wallaroo, Macropus-Antilopinus, in the Northern-Territory, With Observations on Sympatric Macropus-Robustus-Woodwardii and Macropus-Agilis
Authors: Croft DB
Published: June 2005

The dispersion, grouping patterns, diet and habitat utilisation of the antilopine wallaroo were studied
during the wet and early dry season of 1983 at Coomalie Creek Farm in the Northern Territory.
Two sites were sampled: one with steep-sided ridges and narrow valleys, the other with low ridges and
open grassy depressions. The mean and modal group sizes of antilopine wallaroos at various population
densities place this species amongst the most gregarious macropodids. By contrast, sympatric northern
wallaroos and agile wallabies are essentially solitary. Associations between population classes of antilopine
wallaroos contrasted with those in other large kangaroos, possibly because the mating period was not
sampled. Females were most common in sites of low relief and large males were proportionately more
common in this topography than were medium males. Faecal analysis showed that antilopine wallaroos
grazed only grasses.
Effects of logging, fire and drought on possums and gliders in the coastal forests near Bega, NSW
Authors: Lunney D.
Published: June 2005

Seven species of possums and gliders were found during a survey in logged coastal forests near Bega, New South Wales. A study of the preferences for the various tree species showed that both commercial and non-commercial species must be retained to support the full range of possum and glider species. Spotlight searches were carried out in 6 adjacent felling areas each autumn from 1981 to 1983. Four species (Petaurus breviceps, P. australis, Petauroides volans and Pseudocheirus peregrinus) were seen frequently enough to determine their habitat preferences. There were significantly fewer possums and gliders in logged areas, with a greater effect on some species, e.g. P. volans, than others, e.g. P. breviceps. Fire rendered the logged areas even less habitable, and drought compounded the effects of logging and fire by further reducing numbers. Deep unlogged gullies were found to be crucial refuges from logging, fire and drought. The primary conclusions are that the current logging operation is causing a significant reduction in numbers, and that gullies need to be redefined to include all drainage lines and to remain unlogged.
Grouping of Eastern Grey Kangaroos in Open Habitat
Authors: Heathcote CF
Published: June 2005

Grouping of Macropus giganteus in an extremely open habitat was investigated in this study by
measuring group size and group cohesion. In comparison with populations at similar densities in more
forested habitats, the study population of M. giganteus formed larger groups. This finding supports a
prediction that macropods will form larger groups in open habitats, and this is interpreted as being an
adaptive response to increased exposure to predation.
Habitat Use and Tree Preferences of Koalas in a Mixed Eucalypt Forest
Authors: Hindell MA , Lee AK
Published: June 2005

The use of specific vegetation associations and tree species by koalas in a forest containing six
Eucalyptus spp. is described. There was a positive correlation between density of koalas and the density
of E. viminalis, and koalas used this species in preference to other tree species. There were seasonal
differences in the use of both vegetation associations and tree species. Associations dominated by
E. viminalis were preferred in most seasons. E. viminalis was the most preferred species in all seasons
except summer, when E. ovata was preferred. This was not reflected in a change in preference for
vegetation associations. Male koalas showed a preference for E. macrorhyncha, and to a lesser extent
E. viminalis and E, ovata. Females showed a consistent preference for E. ovata and E. viminalis.
Koalas showed a strong preference for large trees in all seasons, and for specific trees within species.
Feeding Preferences of Common Brushtail Possums, Trichosurus-Vulpecula, on Seedlings of a Woodland Eucalypt
Authors: Landsberg J
Published: June 2005

When Eucalyptus blakelyi seedlings were placed on platforms in the canopies of mature trees, common
brushtail possums, Trichosurus vulpecula, selectively browsed on seedlings that had been irrigated with
a balanced nutrient solution, in preference to those that had been irrigated with tapwater. The seed
from which the seedlings were grown had been collected from two isolated stands of trees on pastoral
properties in the Australian Capital Territory. In one all the trees were healthy, and in the other the
trees had dieback, but the possums' preference was independent of seed source. The foliage of the
nutrient-irrigated seedlings contained more water, nitrogen, soluble sugar and fibre, and less tannin,
starch and non-structural carbohydrates, than did that of the tapwater-irrigated plants. Its specific leaf
weight was also lower. The possums browsed some foliage on tapwater-irrigated plants from the healthy
seed source; this foliage contained more sugar, less tannin and less fibre than that of the less preferred
plants. These data are discussed in terms of the dietary basis of feeding preferences of marsupial
folivores.
Forest Phenology and Its Effect on Foraging Behavior and Selection of Habitat by the Yellow-Bellied Glider, Petaurus-Australis Shaw
Authors: Kavanagh RP
Published: June 2005

The foraging behaviour of the yellow-bellied glider was observed for more than 3 years in south-eastern
New South Wales. The use of different substrates by foraging gliders followed an annual cycle which
was correlated with the phenological pattern in the forest. Flowering and bark shedding on eucalypts
were the characters of tree phenology most useful for predicting the behaviour of foraging animals.
Gliders concentrated their foraging efforts on ephemeral food resources, particularly those obtained
from under loose bark; this led to a seasonal pattern in the use of tree species and habitats in the study
area. The preferred habitat of P. australis is likely to be characterised by a mosaic of tree-species
associations, including those which flower in winter. Smooth-barked eucalypts are important because
of the diversity of foraging substrates, and hence food resources, which they provide. The patchy
distribution of these gliders may be explained by differences in floristic diversity and the complexity of
the habitat mosaic.
The Ecology of Small Mammals in Northeastern Tasmania .2. Pseudomys-Novaehollandiae and the Introduced Mus-Musculus
Authors: Norton TW
Published: June 2005

Pseudomys novaehollandiae and the introduced Mus musculus were sympatric and restricted to dry
heathland in north-eastern Tasmania. Both species preferred the same floristic groups, and captures of
both were positively correlated with floristic richness and negatively correlated with vegetation cover
less than 50 cm high. P. novaehollandiae and M. musculus also had a similar diet of stem and leaf
tissue, seed and insects. Spatial separation of the species was not shown.
Water Physiology and Nutrition in Fluctuating Populations of Rattus-Colletti in Monsoonal Northern-Territory, Australia
Authors: Williams CK
Published: June 2005

During wet and dry seasons and transitions of the monsoonal cycle, rates of water turnover and
nutritional variables were measured on a population of Rattus colletti which fluctuated between extremes
of high and low abundance. Rate of water turnover (RWT in millilitres per day) and body weight
( W, in kilograms) were related allometrically: RWT = aW*O.742 � 0.061, where a varied between seasons
and sexes. Seasonal rates of water turnover were consistent with physiological adaptation in R. colletti
to seasonal aridity. Rate of water turnover correlated with seasonal hydric regime, varying by a factor
of 3.5 between dry and wet seasons. During the wet season, low body weight and lack of breeding
seemed to be caused by flooding and its physical and social consequences. During dry season aridity
the rats were short of food and water, but not in a dry season when rain fell and breeding ensued.
Reproduction increased requirements for food and water in both sexes. Juveniles had relatively high
requirements, and shortages appeared to retard growth. Very large populations resulted from prolific
breeding after dry season rain had sustained high consumption of food and water on the riverine plains,
the dry season habitat. Population decline resulted from very high wet season rainfall followed by a
rainless dry season when food and water intakes were depressed, probably because the previous rainfall
pattern reduced the availability of sedge corms, the dry season source of food and water. This climatic
pattern recurred in the next wet and dry seasons, reinforcing the effects on R, colletti, which became
rare for several years on both riverine systems studied.
Seasonal and Geographical Variation in the Food of Weddell Seals, Leptonychotes-Weddelii, in Antarctica
Authors: Green K , Burton HR
Published: June 2005

The food of Weddell seals was investigated between 1983 and 1985 at Davis, Mawson and McMurdo
Sound. Food samples were obtained from stomach samples, vomitus and faeces. Fish remains predominated
in samples at all three sites. At Davis, prawn (decapod crustacean) remains were more
common than those of cephalopods, the reverse of the situation at Mawson and McMurdo Sound.
The differences between sites probably reflects different physical characteristics, especially with regard
to local sea depth. In faeces collections over 13 months in the Davis region the food taken differed both
seasonally and locally: prawn remains predominated in inshore areas, and fish offshore; prawn remains
predominated overall between January and April, but fish predominated from then until December.
Cephalopod remains were less common at Davis than reported hitherto for Weddell seals, and octopus
remains were more common than those of squid. The seasonal changes in food types at Davis reflected
the movement of seals from shallow inshore waters during spring and summer to deeper offshore waters
with the advance of the sea ice in winter.
Comparative Dynamics of Australasian Rabbit-Populations
Authors: Gilbert N , Myers K , Cooke BD , Dunsmore JD , Fullagar PJ , Gibb JA , King DR , Parer I , Wheeler SH , Wood DH
Published: June 2005

Shot samples of rabbits were collected over several years at 11 sites in Australia and one in New
Zealand. At any one site, pregnancy rates and litter sizes vary both with age of mother and with time
of year. Few rabbits become pregnant before the age of 19 weeks; pregnancy rate increases until the
full adult rate is achieved about 27 weeks old. Litter size is also affected by age, adult litter size being
reached by females at about 43 weeks old. Rates and timing of reproduction vary greatly from site to
site in response to local conditions. The annual production of young per fully adult female is highest
at Wairarapa, N.Z. (53 young) and lowest in the semiarid (17) and subalpine (15) environments. At six
of the sites cohorts of marked rabbits provided estimates of seasonal survival rates; survival improves
with age but becomes relatively constant in rabbits aged more than 24 weeks; survival patterns differ
between sites. Life tables were constructed combining the information on reproduction and survival.
Their possible usefulness is discussed.
The History and Structure of a Large Warren of the Rabbit, Oryctolagus-Cuniculus, at Canberra, Act
Authors: Parer I , Fullagar PJ , Malafant KWJ
Published: June 2005

A 5-year-old rabbit warren in a 33-ha enclosure had 150 entrances and a total tunnel length of 517 m;
it was estimated that 10.35 m*3 of soil had been excavated from the warren. Penetrometer readings
indicated the presence of a hard layer in the soil at 600-700 mm. The depth of the warren was
limited by this hard layer, the rabbits not having excavated below 700 mm. The hard layer had a low
permeability, and flooding of the warren resulted in the deaths of nestling rabbits.
An Aerial Survey of Feral Pigs and Emus in Southeastern Queensland
Authors: Wilson GR , Hill GJE , Barnes A
Published: June 2005

Aerial surveys of feral pigs in the Goondiwindi region of Queensland showed an overall observed
density of about 1 per square kilometree. On mature wheat crops in October, up to four feral pigs per
square kilometre were seen amidst substantial crop damage. Emus were less abundant and seen more
evenly over all habitats at an average of 0.3 per square kilometre. Factors affecting sightability are
discussed.
Aerial Surveys of Waders (Aves, Charadriiformes) Along the Coast of Northeastern Australia
Authors: Garnett ST
Published: June 2005

From 1981 to 1984, aerial surveys along the north-east Australian coast between Cairns in Queensland
and Milingimbi in Arnhem Land recorded more than 250 000 migratory wading birds in December and
February and up to 60 000 in July and early September, largely in the south-east Gulf of Carpentaria.
The pattern of dispersion of waders was similar in both summer and winter. More than 85% in both
seasons were found along muddy coastline fringed by mangroves. Waders congregated near the mouths
of the rivers with the largest catchments.
Terrestrial Movements of the Fresh-Water Tortoise Chelodina-Longicollis Shaw as Monitored With a Spool Tracking Device
Authors: Stott P
Published: June 2005

The freshwater tortoise Chelodina longicoflis is often found travelling over land, but no detailed
information about these movements has been recorded. In this study 30 spool-and-line tracking devices
were used to trace the movements of individual animals. The tracking devices were cheap, readily made,
reliable, and gave precise tracings. The tortoises exhibited three types of movement: pond-to-pond,
nesting, and movement involving the use of refuges. Many of the tracings were remarkably straight,
indicating navigational capacity. Journeys of several hundred metres were frequently made overnight,
and movements occasionally were prompted by rainfall.