bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Large solar flares and their ionospheric D region enhancements
Authors: Thomson Neil R. , Rodger Craig J. , Clilverd Mark A.
Published: June 2005

On 4 November 2003, the largest solar flare ever recorded saturated the GOES satellite X‐ray detectors, making an assessment of its size difficult. However, VLF radio phase advances effectively recorded the lowering of the VLF reflection height and hence the lowest edge of the Earth's ionosphere. Previously, these phase advances were used to extrapolate the GOES 0.1–0.8 nm (“XL”) fluxes from saturation at X17 to give a peak magnitude of X45 ± 5 for this great flare. Here it is shown that a similar extrapolation, but using the other GOES X‐ray band, 0.05–0.4 nm (“XS”), is also consistent with a magnitude of X45. Also reported here are VLF phase measurements from two paths near dawn: “Omega Australia” to Dunedin, New Zealand (only just all sunlit) and NPM, Hawaii, to Ny Alesund, Svalbard (only partly sunlit), which also give remarkably good extrapolations of the flare flux, suggesting that VLF paths monitoring flares do not necessarily need to be in full daylight. D region electron densities are modeled as functions of X‐ray flux up to the level of the great X45 flare by using flare‐induced VLF amplitudes together with the VLF phase changes. During this great flare, the “Wait” reflection height, H′, was found to have been lowered to ∼53 km or ∼17 km below the normal midday value of ∼70 km. Finally, XL/XS ratios are examined during some large flares, including the great flare. Plots of such ratios against XL can give quite good estimates of the great flare's size (X45) but without use of VLF measurements.
A Study of the Biology of the Wild Rabbit in Climatically Different Regions in Eastern Australia V*. The Use of Aerial Surveys to Map the Distribution of Rabbit Warrens over Large Areas of Semiarid North-western New South Wales
Authors: Parker BS , Myers K
Published: June 2005

Aerial surveys can be used to measure the distribution of rabbit warrens over large areas of arid and semiarid Australia.
Clumped patterns of distribution of rabbit warrens found by ground surveys are also detected in aerial surveys, which further show that the highest density of warrens occurs in habitats containing shales or other fine-grained rocks overlain by recent sediments, or those closely related to drainage systems.
A good picture of rabbit distribution is obtained when about 25% of the area has been overed by the aircraft.
* Part IV, Aust. J. Zool., 1971, 19, 355–70.
The Vitamin a Content of the Liver of the Australian Fur Seal, Arctocephalus Pusillus Doriferus.
Authors: Southcott RV , Chesterfield NJ , Warneke RM
Published: June 2005

The vitamin A content of the livers of 30 specimens of Australian fur seal ranged from 360 to 15 000 IU/g wet liver, mean 2711 IU/g. In general, values were highest in livers of larger and apparently older animals, but variability within the series was very high, SD 2835. At the higher levels, a single meal of the liver could be toxic to man.
Dynamics of Water Bird Populations on the Alice Springs Sewage Farm, N.T
Authors: Braithwaite LW , Stewart DA
Published: June 2005

Regular counts over an 18-month period were made of the water birds of the Alice Springs sewage farm.

Thirty-four species were recorded; the frequency of observation of each species, in terms of percentage of total visits observed, was significantly related to species population size. The counts indicated that the sewage farm probably provided only temporary refuge during movements for most individuals of all species.

Rainfall appeared a major factor affecting the number of species and total population present.
Observations on a Pygmy Killer Wale, Feresa attenuata, Stranded on the East Coast of Australia
Authors: Bryden MM
Published: June 2005

A description of a young pygmy killer whale calf stranded just south of the Queensland-New South Wales border is given, including external morphology data and detailed osteological observations.

This is the first record of a stranding or sighting of the genus Feresa in Australian waters.
The Effectiveness of Aerial Survey for Determining the Distribution of Rabbit Warrens in a Semiarid Enviroment
Authors: Martin JT , Zickefoos e
Published: June 2005

The distribution of rabbit warrens on six different classes of country in the semiarid pastoral area of New South Wales was assessed by aerial survey from an altitute of 300 m, at a ground speed of 110 km/h, on a complete cover basis.

Ground assessment of warren distribution showed that the proportion of warrens found by aerial survey varied between a 94% underestimate and a 13 % overestimate.

This variation shows a strong correlation with mean warren size.
The Use of Etorphine Hydrochloride (M99) in the Capture and Immobilization of Wild Dingoes, Canis Familiaris Dingo.
Authors: Green B
Published: June 2005

Etorphine hydrochloride (M99) with acetylpromazine was tested as an immobilizing agent for captive or trapped dingoes by injections, and for free wild dingoes by darting. A dose of 0.5 mg M99 with 2.5 mg acetylpromazine immobilized dingoes rapidly, with complete analgesia, and with no apparent ill effects over a wide range of dose per unit weight, although hypothermia and tachycardia were always observed. Analgesia was sufficient for a number of physiological samples to be taken. A dose of 0.5 mg cyprenorphine hydrochloride revived the dingoes rapidly.
Two New Locality Records, a New Habitat and a Nest Description for Xeromys myoides Thomas (Rodentia : Muridae)
Authors: Magnusson WE , Webb GJW , Taylor JA
Published: June 2005

One X. myoides was captured on the bank of the Tomkinson River, Arnhem Land, and three on the banks of Andranangoo Creek, Melville I.

The latter specimens, an adult and two juveniles, were in a mud mound containing a nest. The remains of a fifth specimen were recovered from the stomach of a Crocodylus porosus caught in the Tomkinson River.

All specimens were associated with mangrove forests. Behavioural observations are presented and discussed. X. myoides could be more widespread in the mangroves which border northern rivers.
Food of Eight Species of Columbidae, in the Genera Geopelia, Phaps, Geophaps and Petrophassa.
Authors: Frith HJ , Wolfe TO , Barker RD
Published: June 2005

Crop or gizzard contents were studied for Columbidae from north of Western Australia, Northern Territory, south of Southern Australia and Waigani Swamp near Port Moresby, Papua New Guinea. Food was mainly seeds, listed in tables by botanical name, volume and frequency or by the number of gizzards or crops in which each was found. Some species ate small amounts of vegetative parts or insects.Results for Geopelia humeralis (bar-shouldered dove) and Geopelia striata (peaceful dove) suggest difference in feeding habitat though they were collected together from Waigani Swamp or subcoastal Northern Territory. Results for Petrophassa albipennis (white-quilled rock pigeon) and Phaps histrionica (flock pigeon) from north Western Australia and Northern Territory suggested an effect of drought on composition of feed. Other species studied were Geopelia cuneata (diamond dove), Geophaps smithii (partridge pigeon), Phaps elegans (brush bronzewing) and Petrophassa rufipennis (chestnut-quilled rock pigeon).
Ecological Studies of the Black Swan I. The Egg, Clutch and Incubation
Authors: Braithwaite LW
Published: June 2005

Statistics are given for egg dimensions, clutch size, laying rate and incubation period in black swans nesting at Lake George and Lake Bathurst, N.S.W., and compared with data from other studies.

Methods of determining clutch size and incubation dates are given and examined. Emphasis is placed on the importance of the method of assessment of clutch size in comparisons within and between studies.

There was evidence of two size classes of eggs, possibly related to factors of age or breeding experience, the smaller class being laid in summer breeding, during an exceptional abundance of food, but not in winter when food may have been limiting. Egg size varied significantly, according to sequence in the clutch. The adaptive significance of egg size is discussed; moisture loss may be
important in the evolution of egg size.

Clutch size varied significantly according to the location and date of nesting. The reasons for the variation were, possibly, both in the nutritional value of the food available and in its relative temporal and physical availability and the swans' abllity to metabolize it. Possible evolutionary determinants of average clutch size in the black swan are considered. Moisture losses from the egg may again he important.

The laying rate was simdar to that reported elsewhere. The mean incubation period was 40.45 days and most clutches ranged from 39 to 43 days.

Clutches laid in autumn and winter took marginally longer to hatch than clutches laid in spring and summer, possibly due to effects of ambient temperature; the difference was probably not of particular adaptive significance.
Movements of Stubble Quail, Coturnix Pectoralis, From South Australian Grainfields.
Authors: Frith HJ , Waterman MH
Published: June 2005

Stubble quail (Coturnix pectoralis) were ringed in the grain-growing districts north of Adelaide. Findings were consistent with the hypothesis that stubble quail are not migratory but nomadic, moving according to available food. In time of stress they disperse in all directions; stress was increased by competition for food with house mice (Mus musculus). The plague of mice in 1969 and 1970 was attributed to high rainfall in 1968.
The Diet of the Barn Owl, Tyto Alba, in South-Western Queensland.
Authors: Morton SR , Happold M , Lee AK , Mcmillen RE
Published: June 2005

Regurgitated pellets of barn owl (Tyto alba) were collected at 2 places in south west Queensland, arid remote places where introduced rodents were rare. Food items were almost all small mammals, the most abundant being young plague rats (Rattus villosissimus) and hopping mice (Notomys cervinus, N. alexis and possibly N. fuscus).
Distribution and Aspects of the Biology of the Parma Wallaby, Macropus parma, in New South Wales
Authors: Maynes GM
Published: June 2005

M. pauma, which was formerly thought to be extinct in Australia, has been found in the Great Dividing Range of coastal New South Wales between 29D 28' and 32D 23's. The optimum habitat appears to be areas of wet sclerophyll forest with a thick shrubby understorey in association with
grassy areas. Although the species may be locally common, its present status is best defined as rare; it has a limited distribution and normally occurs at a low density throughout its range.

Limited data indicate that most young are born between February and June. Two of six females examined were probably in embryonic diapause. Females may mature sexually as early as 12 months old, and at a weight of 2.6-2.8 kg.

Adult females in Australia were significantly heavier than those in New Zealand (Kawau I.), and larger in seven external body measurements. In contrast, adult males were significantly larger in Australia than Kawau I. in ear length only.

The species is mainly nocturnal and the mean group size is 1.34 animals, i.e. it is usually single individuals that are encountered.
The Diet of the Dingo in Western Australia.
Authors: Whitehouse SJO
Published: June 2005

Between 1971 and 1976, 160 stomachs of dingo [Canis dingo] were collected from rangeland of Western Australia, with conditions ranging from those of arid Nullarbor to tropical Kimberley. There were 14 empty stomachs. In the other stomachs, mammals were the main food by percentage of number and volume. The main mammal foods were macropods, mainly red kangaroo (Megaleia rufa) and euro (Macropus robustus), which together were over 70% by volume of food and occurred in over 65% of stomachs. There were small amounts of domestic sheep, cattle or goats and some food had been eaten as carrion, probably including one sheep that had been shot. Birds provided small volume but were found in 15% of stomachs; the main bird was emu (Dromaius novaehollandiae). Small mammals, reptiles and insects were found and grasshoppers or locusts may be an important food during plagues of those insects. Where rabbits occurred they were a large part of the diet and dingo population may fluctuate in response to changes in rabbit population. Dingos seemed to be opportunistic feeders and to prefer wild animals to domestic stock even though those were usually equally available.
Harvesting Kangaroos in New South Wales
Authors: Sinclair RG
Published: June 2005

In New South Wales the red kangaroo, Megaleia rufa (Desmarest), and the two species of grey kangaroo, Macropus giganteus Shaw and M. fuliginosus (Desmarest), are harvested commercially.

In 1975 the National Parks and Wildlife Service issued permits for 239,764 kangaroos to be shot, but only 48,200 red and 70,200 grey kangaroos were taken. Over western New South Wales the numbers shot represented only 2.3% of the reds and 3.8% of the greys. Most of the harvesting was in areas where kangaroos were abundant. Where densities were low few animals were shot but they accounted for a high proportion of the standing crop-in some areas over 15%. Possible reasons for this under the present management system are discussed, together with the implications for future management.
Aspects of the Ecology of the Common Wombat, Vombatus ursinus II. Methods for Estimating Population Numbers
Authors: Mcilroy JC
Published: June 2005

The number of common wombats can be estimated directly either by capturing every animal during a single trapping session or by mark-recapture over at least three trapping sessions. Indirect
estimates can be obtained by recording the number of burrows used every 24 h. Spotlight counts do not provide accurate population estimates.
Small Mammal Populations in Pine and Native Forests in North-Eastern New South Wales.
Authors: Barnett JL , How RA , Humphreys WF
Published: June 2005

Populations of small mammals were examined in a 6 yr Pinus taeda plantation (extended to include similar age P. radiata) and adjacent native rain forest in north-east New South Wales, Australia. Of the 6 species trapped, Rattus fuscipes was the only one with viable populations in both vegetation types. R. lutreolus, R. rattus and Mus musculus were restricted to the plantation; Melomys cervinipes and Antechinus stuartii (except for a few individuals) were confined to the native forest.
Ecology of the Feral Cat, Felis Catus (L.), (Carnivora:Felidae) on Macquarie Island.
Authors: Jones E
Published: June 2005

On Macquarie Island from December 1973 to March 1975 the diet of feral domestic cats (Felis catus) was estimated. There was rabbit (Oryctolagus cuniculus) in 82% of faeces and 71% of guts, rabbits under 600 g bodyweight, about 10 weeks old, were 81% of all rabbits eaten. There were Antarctic prion (Pachyptila desolata) and white-headed petrel (Pterodroma lessonii). Cats ate small numbers of rats, mice and wekas and scavenged on dead elephant seals and penguins, especially in winter. Availability of food in winter seemed to be an important factor limiting the population; adult population was estimated to be 250 to 500 and the area of the island is 120 km2. Prion and white-headed petrel nest in burrows; there was little or no predation by cats on surface nesters such as albatross, giant petrel, southern skua or southern black-backed gull, or on live penguin.
Locations of Recoversies of Black Swans, Cygnus atratus Latham, Banded at Lake Whangape and Lake Ellesmere New Zealand
Authors: Williams M
Published: June 2005

Recoveries by hunters of 842 black swans banded at Lake Whangape, North Island, New Zealand,between 1962 and 1975 were mainly confined to the Waikato and Northland districts, 88% being recovered within a 30-mile (50 km) radius of the lake. Five were recovered from South Island. At Lake Ellesmere, South Island, a cyclonic storm in April 1968 which altered the lake's ecology caused a change in the swans' dispersion.

During 1956-68 and 1969-75 respectively, hunters returned 3950 and 745 bands, 83 and 78% of which were from within 10 miles (16km) of the lake. Of the more distant recoveries, 72 and 73 % were from the south-east of South Island. Most of the swans recovered from North Island were 2-year-olds.

In 1969-75 more first and second-year birds and fewer older birds were shot on Lake Ellesmere than during 1956 and 1968. This difference is considered the result of a shorter game season and poorer food supply at the lake in 1969-75.
Variation in Waterbird Numbers at Four Swamps on the Northern Tablelands of New South Wales
Authors: Briggs SV
Published: June 2005

Waterbirds at four northern tableland swamps were counted at monthly intervals. Populations were shown to vary.

Rainfall patterns and habits of individual species were postulated as the major factors causing this variation.
Behaviour and Ecology of the Dugong, Dugong Dugon (Sirenia): Observations in Shoalwater and Cleveland Bays, Queensland.
Authors: Anderson PK , Birtles A
Published: June 2005

Dugongs (Dugong dugon) were studied in 2 bays in north Queensland from shore and small boats. Population in favoured areas of one bay was 5/km shoreline and 4 to 8% were juveniles. Feeding was the most common activity. The dugongs dived and grazed, apparently using their rostral disc to gouge a serpentine track through the bottom sediment. Removal of sea grass was calculated to be 78% from the tracks selected by observers or 59% from a random sample; both were thought to be underestimated. Dugongs tended to move on after 5 or 6 days when 30% of an area had been grazed. They left inshore sea grass beds before low tide to avoid being stranded, so their feeding was governed by the 25-h cycle of 2 high and 2 low tides daily. Inshore feeding was not restricted to hours of darkness. The most commonly eaten sea grasses were Zostera capricorni, Halophila decipiens and H. ovalis. From published work, it was thought that the dugongs specialized in whatever seagrass species were most readily available. Owing to opacity of the water, they could not be observed under water. Mean length of the 9 faecal pellets found on shore was 8.98 mm; the pellets included plant fibre.
Observations of Whales on ANARE Voyages between Australia and Antarctica
Authors: Parker DAA
Published: June 2005

Since 1948 sightings of whales have been recorded by ANARE ships voyaging to Antarctica. Between 1961 and 1972 more detailed observations were made. In the 1976-77 season a continuous watch was maintained for 4h daily for some of the voyages of one ship. Details of the sightings of 532 whales, both baleen and toothed, are given and compared with previous sightings.

The majority of whales were seen in high latitudes, in the region of the Gaussberg-Kerguelen Ridge. Sei whales formed the highest percentage, the majority of them being seen below 60Ds. This survey presents an independent method of monitoring the whale population densities of the Australian sector of the Southern Ocean.
The Ecology of the Eastern Water Rat Hydromys Chrysogaster at Griffith, N.s.w.: Food and Feeding Habits.
Authors: Woollard P , Vestjens WJM , Maclean L
Published: June 2005

The eastern water rat, Hydromys chrysogaster, lives in inland waters, estuaries, sea beaches and islands from Queensland to South Australia and Tasmania. It is adapted to semiaquatic life and changes in its molar teeth may be an adaptation to diet of crustaceans and molluscs. The present study was of 408 stomach contents and 316 contents of caecum with rectum, collected in New South Wales in 1970-73 from permanent Typha swamp. From elsewhere there were 12 other stomach and 11 gut contents and live rats were observed. At any time of day but particularly in evenings the rats swam along the bank or between logs or reed clumps, foraging and catching fish. Captive rats crushed small mussels and left large mussels to open by exposure. Diet varied with season and included crustaceans, mostly the yabbie, a crayfish (Cherax destructor), spiders, all Araneida with one identified as of the suborder Pisauridae, a fishing spider. Insects were the main food and were eaten in all seasons, and included larvae, nymphs and adults. Only 1% of rats had the freshwater mussel Veksurio ambiguus but the flesh was difficult to identify and empty shells were often found. Fish were eaten all the year, and were found in up to 35% of rats in autumn and winter; fish may be underestimated because flesh is not easily recognised and hard parts are not much eaten. Several species of fish, mostly introduced, were identified, their ages estimated from their scales, and length was calculated to be up to 36 cm. Frogs and macquaria tortoise (Emydura macquarii) were eaten. Birds were eaten all the year and were in up to 10% of stomachs in winter. Personal communications are quoted, from persons having seen H. chrysogaster capture large adult birds including duck and mutton bird (Puffinus tenuirostris). Captive rats were able to open cracked hen's eggs but left intact eggs. Plant material was eaten as food and possibly also in stomachs of prey. For 3 rats half the starch content was plant; 3 other stomachs had 5, 40 and 50% plant material, Azolla fuliculoides. Differences in diet with age are described. H. chrysogaster was an adaptable and opportunist feeder, making use of transient plenty of insects, exploiting plagues among other species and using plants during shortage of food. They may control introduced pests such as perch, or control yabbies in irrigation ditches.
A Comparison of Predator Scat Analysis With Conventional Techniques in a Mammal Survey of Contrasting Habitats in Gippsland, Victoria.
Authors: Friend GR
Published: June 2005

In Gippsland, Victoria, in pine plantations and the adjacent native eucalyptus forest, mammal population was estimated by the usual methods and by analysis of ffaeces of predators. Predators were fox (Vulpes vulpes), feral cat (Felis catus), dog and dingo. Prey species found in faeces included 1 monotreme, 18 marsupial and 10 placental mammals, including the predators. Remains of cattle and sheep were found, presumably eaten as carrion. Remains of plants, or of animals other than the groups noted, were not required to be identified for the purpose of the study, nor were prey species attributed to each species of predator.
The Stomach Contents of Foxes, Vulpes Vulpes, Collected in New South Wales.
Authors: Croft JD , Hone LJ
Published: June 2005

Foxes were killed in each of 4 seasons in the 5 years 1969-73 and a table gives numbers of stomachs with food for each year and season in each of 6 regions into which New South Wales was divided according to climate, vegetation and land use. Incidence of 11 food items or classes of food varied with region. An appendix lists precentage and volume of food items for the 811 foxes with food, out of the 899 that were killed. Main foods were rabbit, sheep and house mouse, by number and volume. The number of plant and insect items was high but the volume was low. Food included reptiles, amphibians, fish, grass and fruit. Foxes seemed to be opportunists and scavengers; food included feral pig and kangaroo when those were being shot locally, sheep carrion in the lambing season, mice during a plague of mice, domestic fowl, birds and animals probably killed on the road, and blackberries and apples in season. Insects included maggots, locusts and processionary caterpillars.
Toxicity of the Anticoagulant Pindone to the European Rabbit, Oryctolagus Cuniculus and the Sheep, Ovis Aries.
Authors: Oliver AJ , Wheeler SH
Published: June 2005

All sheep survived a mean daily dose of 12 mg/kg-1 of pindone (range 4.4-16 mg/kg-1) for 7 days with no signs of haemorrhage, while all active rabbits died when given 1 mg/kg-1 daily or more for 7 days. The voluntary intake of pindone by sheep appeared to be curtailed below the lethal dose.
An Ecological Study of Sminthopsis crassicaudata (Marsupialia : Dasyuridae) I. Distribution, Study Areas and Methods
Authors: Morton SR
Published: June 2005

Sminthopsis crassicaudata is widespread in grassland and shrubland in the southern half of Australia. An ecological study which aimed to determine the primary adaptations allowing this species to exist in open grassland and desert environments is introduced in this paper. Study areas and methods of capture are described.
The Disribution of Pseudomys shortridgei (Muridae : Rodentia ) and its Relevance to that of other Heathland Pseudomys
Authors: Cockburn A
Published: June 2005

Pseudomyine rodents today often show extremely restricted and disjunct distributions, yet evidence from subfossil deposits suggest these species were widely dispersed and abundant in Recent times. Previous explanations for this decline such as a widespread epidemic, climatic change, and competition with introduced rodents appear inadequate. A new survey technique was used to determine habitat preferences of small mammals in the Grampians region in western Victoria. The distribution of Pseudomys shovtvidgei was demonstrated to be principally confined to floristically rich treeless heath communities. This animal appeared to require the consistent presence within its habitat of a number of plant species, whose availability depends upon a specific fire regime. The habitat requirements of Pseudomys albocinereus and P. novaehollandiae are similar to those of P. shortridgei. Such close habitat association suggests that a change in vegetation may be catastrophic to the small mammal species. A relationship between the alteration and alienation of the Australian environment by European man, and the decline of the pseudomyines, is postulated.
A Hair Sampling Tube for the Detection of Small Mammals in Trees
Authors: Suckling GC
Published: June 2005

Small baited tubes of pvc piping lined with a double-sided adhesive tape and attached to trees have been used successfully to detect the small mammals Antechinus stuartii and Petaurus breviceps in eucalypt forests of south Gippsland, Vic. The hair sampling technique has generally been more successful than trapping for the detection of A. stuartii and about as successful as spotlighting for the detection of P. breviceps. The suitability of the technique for detecting shy species such as Acrobates pygmaeus and Cercartetus nanus is at this stage uncertain.
Carbon Dioxide Tolerance of Rabbits and Its Relation to Burrow Fumigation
Authors: Hayward JS , Lisson PA
Published: June 2005

The survival time of wild rabbits exposed to elevated concentrations of carbon dioxide (30–60%) was more than double that of a domestic strain. For example, at 50% CO2, mean survival time of wild rabbits was 71 minutes and that of domestic rabbits was 23 minutes. For the wild rabbits, constant levels of carbon dioxide greater than 30% are required for lethality. These findings support the pre-existing generalization that fossorial mammals have adapted physiologically to increased carbon dioxide concentrations encountered in their burrows.
Dry ice was used as a source of carbon dioxide to evaluate whether this agent could be used for fumigation of rabbits in their burrows. Carbon dioxide treatment of a natural burrow showed that this is not effective, owing to the high concentration required for lethality and the inadequate distribution of the gas to all regions of the burrow. The factors which determine poor dispersal of carbon dioxide through the burrow suggest limitations to the effectiveness of some other commonly used fumigants for rabbit control.
Movement and Dispersal Patterns of Crocodylus porosus in some Rivers of Arnhem Land, Northern Australia
Authors: Webb GJW , Messel H
Published: June 2005

The dispersal of juvenile C. povosus hatched in the Liverpool River is described. Of those initially caught when hatchlings, 1-y-olds and 2–4-y-olds, and recaught 1 year later, 93 %, 73% and 57% respectively were within 10 km of the original capture site. Movements of up to 21 km in one direction in 1 year could be followed by a similar movement in the opposite direction the following year. Relocated C. povosus demonstrated a homing instinct. A possible explanation for the long distances travelled by some juveniles (up to 81 km in a year), is that chance wandering placed them in the mouth of another stream, and attempts to 'home' in the new stream took them further away from their original capture site. The distribution of C. povosus in other rivers can be explained by dispersal patterns similar to those found in the Liverpool River. Some rivers seem to have supported successful C. povosus breeding for a number of years, others seem to have been sporadically successful, and still others unsuccessful. Movement of juveniles from 'successful' to 'unsuccessful' rivers could
account for older juveniles found in the latter type of river.
The Yellow-footed Rock-wallaby, Petrogale xanthopus Gray (Macropodidae), in Queensland
Authors: Gordon G , McGreevy DG , Lawrie BC
Published: June 2005

P. xanthopus was recorded for the first time since 1926 at a locality 48-65 km north-north-east of Adavale. Habitats were characterized by more rugged cliffs and denser or more diverse vegetation than were present in surrounding areas.
Field Observations of the Hairy-Nosed Wombat, Lasiorhinus Latifrons (Owen).
Authors: Wells RT
Published: June 2005

Hairy-nosed wombats (Lasiorhinus latrifrons) were observed intermittently for 3 years in South Australia. They were nocturnal grazers. Of 25 females caught in 1971, 7 had pouch young, newborn between October and December; in 1970 of 28 females 1 had pouch young and that was in February. Two adults had pouch young in December and again in April; the April young were fully haired, had open eyes and bodyweight 450 g. Juveniles were seen from July and though still sucking, 4 captured juveniles had worn teeth, suggesting that they had begun to graze. Their average bodyweight was 2 kg. Bodyweight of females with pouch young was on average 23.71 kg, minimum 18.75 kg. Pouch life was about 6 or 7 months and weaning at 8 or 9 months old.
A Collapsible Bat-Trap and a Comparison of Results Obtained with the Trap and with Mist-nets
Authors: Tidemann CR , Woodside DP
Published: June 2005

A design for a collapsible bat-trap is presented with details of construction and use. Results of trapping in six different localities in New South Wales show the new trap to be about 10 times as effective in capturing bats as mist-nets used in the same areas.
The Behaviour Patterns of the Dusky Moorhen, Gallinula Tenebrosa Gould (Aves: Rallidae).
Authors: Garnett ST
Published: June 2005

Behaviour of dusky moorhens (Gallinula tenebrosa) was studied during 666 h during 3 months ending in December 1976 near Canberra, Australia. Observations were that the young were fed intensively from hatching to about 4 weeks old then with decreasing frequency to 9 weeks old. Adults of the group of up to 7 birds transferred food to the beak of the brooding adult, which passed it to the young in the nest. Older juveniles approached adults carrying food, displaying a conspicuous yellow patch of skin on the wings, and pecked towards the yellow patch on the tip of the lowered beak of the adult. The young made pecking motions from a few days old but took no food for themselves until they were at least 10 days old. At any one time only 1 or 2 adults of the group took all food they found to the young; other adults fed themselves, and only occasionally fed the young. The young remained with the parents for 5 to 8 months. Adults sometimes fed other adults, the food being exchanged more than 20 times at some encounters. For the first few weeks after hatching the main food items were molluscs, annelids and insects; vegetable matter was included gradually as the young began to feed themselves.
An Aerial Survey of Potential Nesting Areas of the Saltwater Crocodile, Crocodylus porosus Schneider, on the North Coast of Arnehem Land, Northern Australia
Authors: Magnusson WE , Grigg GC , Taylor JA
Published: June 2005

Results of a study of habitats used by C, povosus for nesting on the Liverpool and Tomkinson Rivers, Arnhem Land, northern Australia, are presented. These were used as the basis of an aerial survey for potential crocodile nesting habitat in coastal wetlands between Smith Point (Cobourg Peninsula) and Gove.

General conclusions of the survey are given, and areas in which different types of management could be applied are indicated. Detailed results are lodged with the Australian National Library,Canberra (catalogue No. MS5640).
Home Range and Activity Patterns of the Sand Goanna, Varanus gouldii (Reptilia: Varanidae)
Authors: Green B , King D
Published: June 2005

The movements of two subspecies of the sand goanna, V. gouldii, were studied at two localities in South Australia. The estimated home ranges of individuals of V.g. rosenbergi differed considerably, the largest area being 25 times the size of the smallest. Daily activity areas varied with the season, being largest in summer and smallest in winter. There were distinct differences between the two
subspecies in their activity patterns, V. g. rosenbergi being active throughout the year whereas Kg. gouldii remained underground during winter.
Cow-Pup Behaviour of the Weddell Seal, Leptonychotes Weddelli (Pinnipedia), in Mcmurdo Sound, Antarctica.
Authors: Tedman RA , Bryden MM
Published: June 2005

Study was of the behaviour of 9 marked female Weddell seals, Leptonychotes weddelli, and their young in a colony of 35 to 40 such pairs at Turtle Rock, McMurdo Sound, off Ross Island, Antarctica. The young sucked first about 80 min after birth. Sucking was usually initiated by the young seal, which had to raise its head to reach either of the 2 nipples. After sucking for 10 to 20 sec the young seal dropped down to the ice and waited for 1 to 2 min before sucking again. It was not clear whether the young seal had to rest after supporting itself or whether it had cleared the milk from the gland cistern and had to wait while milk from alveoli and ducts refilled the cistern. For young more than 1 week old there was a diurnal pattern of sucking with peaks between 1200 and 2359 h and least between 0300 and 0600 h. When the young began to swim they used more energy, stored less fat and sucked less. Early swimming, resulting in lower bodyweight at weaning, could affect survival during the following winter. Published values for bodyweight increments of growing seals are given. Young Weddell seals accumulate less fat than some species but learn to catch food before they are weaned.
Ecology of the Little Black Cormorant, Phalacrocorax sulcirostris, and Little Pied Cormorant, P. melanoleucos, in Inland New South Wales I. Food and Feeding Habits.
Authors: Miller B
Published: June 2005

The food and feeding habits of two species of cormorant were studied on a group of freshwater
lakes in inland New South Wales. P. sulcirostris fed mainly on exotic fish (69% of live weight of
prey), captured while fishing communally in the deeper waters. P. melanoleucos fed mainly on
native decapod crustaceans (60% of prey) captured while fishing individually in the shallow parts
of the lakes, and in nearby billabongs and farm dams. P. sulcirostris took larger common carp
Carassius auratus, redfin Perca fluviatilis and yabby Cherax destructor than its congener. Seasonal
changes in the diet of P. sulcirostris were similar in each year; its major prey, common carp and
redfin, were least available during winter and spring, as fry grew too large to be captured and
swallowed. Changes in diet of P. melanoleucos were irregular, as the availability of yabby, its major
prey, was influenced by the turbidity, level and temperature of water. Seasonal changes in diets
of both cormorants were attributed to changes in prey availability, and not changes in food preference.
Food of nestlings sometimes differed from that of adults.
Observations on the Leatherback Turtle, Dermochelys coriacea (L.), in Australia
Authors: Limpus CJ , McLachlan C
Published: June 2005

Nesting of leatherback turtles in eastern Australia is confined to low-density nesting on mainland
subtropical Queensland. Measurements of adults, eggs and hatchlings from this area are presented.
The species is relatively common in central eastern Australian waters though rarely sighted elsewhere
in northern, eastern and southern Australia. The origin of the non-breeding eastern Australian
leatherback turtles is postulated in terms of the colonies reported on the islands north of the Coral
Sea.
Observations on Growth of Petaurus Breviceps and P. Norfolcensis (Petauridae : Marsupialia) in Captivity.
Authors: Smith MJ
Published: June 2005

Growth was recorded of captive marsupials in Australia, the sugar gliders (Petaurus breviceps) during 13 years and squirrel gliders (P. norfolcensis) for 3 years. Tables give age range for different stages of development of the young, and graphs give head, arm and leg lengths and bodyweight at ages up to 180 days. Another graph gives seasonal fluctuation of bodyweight in adults.
Trapping Success in Relation to Trap Placement with Three Species of Small Mammals, Rattus fuscipes, Antechinus swainsonii and A.stuartii
Authors: Stewart AP
Published: June 2005

The effect of trap placement on trapping success was investigated with the small mammals Rattus
fuscipes, Antechinus swainsonii and A. stuartii. Trapping success for A. stuartii was not affected by
density of ground cover (measured qualitatively and by the penetration of light), type of ground
cover, presence of logs or presence of runways (either small natural openings in the ground cover
or wombat pathways). R. fuscipes and A. swainsonii were caught more frequently in areas of good
cover, in fishbone water-fern Blechnum nudum and on runways. The two indices of cover gave
similar results. A. swainsonii was often caught on wombat pathways but not often on small natural
runways; preference for wombat pathways increased in winter. Logs were not preferred by any of
the species. Some latitude may be desirable in trap placement within a predetermined trapping
configuration, especially when small mammals are sparsely distributed.
Feeding Ecology of the Barn Owl, Tyto Alba, in Arid Southern Australia.
Authors: Morton SR , Martin AA
Published: June 2005

In arid parts of Australia the barn owl appears to feed largely on rodents which form irruptions or
plagues, i.e. undergo marked changes in abundance. Barn owls became common at the height
of an irruption of house mice, Mus musculus, in western New South Wales, but were comparatively
scarce after the mice decreased in numbers. There was some evidence that the owls' diet, determined
by analysis of pellets, was more varied immediately after the numbers of mice decreased, but its
major part still consisted of M. musculus. The mean number of prey units represented in each pellet
rose during the irruption and then declined to the original level. At a variety of sites in arid New
South Wales and South Australia, barn owls' diet consisted almost entirely of small mammals.
The most common prey species were rodents that fluctuate widely in abundance, and the mean amount
of prey per pellet differed greatly among the study sites. The feeding ecology of barn owls in arid
Australian environments is essentially similar to that described for more mesic habitats; hence, a
greatly increased variation in the abundance of mammalian prey has not led to an increase in breadth
of food niche.
The Availability of Tree Hollows for Use as Nest Sites by White-tailed Black Cockatoos
Authors: Saunders DA
Published: June 2005

Data on nest hollows were collected from four study areas throughout the range of the short-billed form of the white-tailed black cockatoo, Calyptorhynchus baudinii latirostris, in south Western
Australia. Hollows in trees are formed as a result of some destructive agent such as termites or fungi attacking the heartwood of the tree and breaking down the structure of the wood cells. The
breaking off of part of the tree provides access to the hollow from the outside, and allows it to be used as a nest site.

Throughout their breeding range, white-tailed black cockatoos will nest in any species of eucalypt which has a hollow of suitable size. The aspects of the entrances of hollows are not randomly distributed among compass groups, but the birds' selection of hollows was random.
The aspect, depth to the floor and height of the entrance from the ground do not affect the success or failure of the nesting attempt.
Female white-tailed black cockatoos searching for and preparing nest hollows chase female conspecifics from an area around their prospective nest tree. They continue this activity until they are incubating; this may result in suitable hollows not being accessible to other females.

The rate of loss of hollows was 4.8 and 2.2% at two of the study areas. Hollows are being destroyed by all causes, particularly clearing for agriculture, faster than they are being created.
Guidelines for the management of woodland must be drawn up so as to maintain a continuing supply of mature trees and protect hole-nesting species.
Wariness in Crocodylus porosus (Reptilia : Crocodilidae)
Authors: Webb GJW , Messel H
Published: June 2005

Of 1364 C. porosus sighted at night, 954 (69.9%) could be approached by a boat and spotlight to within 5 ft, and 1191 (87.3%) to within 20 ft. The percentage which could be approached to within 5 ft decreased with increasing body size and varied between rivers. Such differences appear to reflect mainly learned wariness, though some data suggest that a natural increase in wariness accompanies the transition from hatchlings to 1-year-olds.

The low approach distances make the species vulnerable to over-harvesting.
Comparison of the Diets of Yellow-Footed Rock-Wallabies and Sympatric Herbivores in Western New South Wales.
Authors: Dawson TJ , Ellis BA
Published: June 2005

Diet of the rare yellow-footed rock wallaby (Petrogale xanthopus) was found by study of faeces along the escarpment of the Coturaundee Range in western New South Wales, Australia. Normally 42 to 52% of the diet (estimated as the occurrence of recognizable particles within a microscope field) was of forbs, mostly small herbaceous ephemeral species. During drought the most important component was browse, 44% of diet. Grass was important. There was considerable overlap of species eaten by the rock wallabies and the introduced goats and rabbits, 75% in the case of goats during drought; rabbits were not seen in the higher parts of the escarpment. There was less competition from the euros (Macropus robustus). Control of introduced herbivores may be essential if the rock wallaby populations are to have a chance of recovery.
Status of the Barred Bandicoot, Perameles Gunnii, in Victoria: With a Note on Husbandry of a Captive Colony.
Authors: Seebeck JH
Published: June 2005

Barred or Gunn's bandicoot (Perameles gunnii), formerly widely distributed in Victoria, Australia, is now restricted to the western basalt plains around the city of Hamilton. A small captive colony was begun in 1972 near Geelong. The bandicoots were fed on commercial dog food [dried pellets?] with some sunflower seed or chopped apple occasionally and they obtained other food from the soil. They required fairly large outdoor enclosures and only 1 pair could be kept in a 0.07-ha pen. Notes are given on frequency of litters. Bandicoots in Tasmania are known to eat crickets (Gryllus servellei), moths and larvae of coleoptera and lepidoptera; crickets, pasture grubs and moths were mostly available in autumn and the abundance of food then may stimulate winter breeding. Breeding bandicoots for release to the wild would require money and effort, and it was doubtful whether a wild population could be established. It might be possible to develop methods of land management to provide suitable habitat for bandicoots, but there was little public interest; community education in Hamilton was needed.
Variation in Water Turnover by Wild Rabbits, Oryctolagus cuniculus, in an Arid Environment, due to Season, Age Group and Reproductive Condition
Authors: Richards GC
Published: June 2005

Rates of water turnover were measured in free-living rabbits during a period of wide variation of climate and water availability. Mean rate of water turnover was positively correlated with the hydration of the pasture (r = 0.987).

Mean turnover rates per day ranged from 214.3 ml kg-1 in
cool, wet conditions to 55.4 ml kg-' in a moderate summer drought. The lowest individual rate was 46.1 ml kg-1 per day. The rate of water turnover in young rabbits (1-2 months old) was significantly higher than that of adults measured at the same time; this may contribute to the low survival of young rabbits in dry seasons.

A comparison of the rates of water turnover from lactating
rabbits in wet and dry seasons shows that the estimated milk production under dry pasture conditions is below that required to maintain a litter of young.
Observations on the Food and Energy Requirements of Rainbow Lorikeets, Trichoglossus Haematodus (Aves:Psittacidae).
Authors: Cannon CE
Published: June 2005

Captive Trichoglossus haematodus were given a restricted diet of bread and honey or a supplemented diet of bread, honey and the fortified milk powder 'Complan'. On the former diet they lost weight and were less active compared to those on the latter. Both diets were very fluid and birds consumed the equivalent of 38 to 47% of their bodyweight daily. However, they ate significantly more of the supplemented diet, 15.1 g DM daily, than of the bread and honey diet, 12.8 g daily. Birds given the supplemented diet voided more excreta and lost more excretory energy, 28.9 kJ/day, than the others, 17.9 kJ/day, but the 2 groups did not differ in their gross energy intake or maintenance requirements. A captive lorikeet weighing about 150 g required about 230 kJ/day for existence, with an efficiency of food use of 89%. Allowing a higher energy cost for free existence, it is suggested that wild lorikeets could gather sufficient energy daily in 2.5 h.
Parasites and Pathological Findings in Enclosed and Free-Ranging Populations of Macropus Rufus (Demarest) (Marsupialia) at Menindee, New South Wales.
Authors: Arundel JH , Beveridge I , Presidente PJ
Published: June 2005

A total of 115 Macropus rufus was collected at bimonthly intervals at Menindee, New South Wales, Australia, in 1976 and 1977 and examined for parasites and pathological changes. The animals came from 2 populations, one free-ranging and the other a high-density, enclosed population in Kinchega National Park. No differences in species of helminths present, in prevalence or intensity of infection were noted between the 2 populations. The stomachs were infected with Labiostrongylus longispicularis (prevalence 87.8%), Rugopharynx australis (98.2%), Zoniolaimus spp. (81.6%), Cloacina spp. (71.1%), Papillostrongylus labiatus (47.4%) and Filarinema spp. (92.2%). Hypodontus macropi (93.0%) was the dominant species among the 2 species of cestodes and 3 of nematodes found in the intestine. Progamotaenia festiva (in 74.3%) was found in the bile ducts where it caused mild cholangitis. Only 2 nematode species, F. flagrifer and H. macropi, caused gross and histological lesions. Apart from L. longispicularis none of the helminths showed seasonal variations in prevalence or numbers. Data on worm numbers in relation to host age and on site distribution in the host are presented. The various haematological parameters measured showed no evidence of adverse effects by the parasites, and corticosteroid levels were judged to be within the normal range. The helminth faunas of 9 M. fuliginosus and one M. robustus, grazing sympatrically with M. rufus inside the park are listed. ADDITIONAL ABSTRACT: The parasites reported from 115 red kangaroos (Macropus rufus) in New South Wales in 1976-77 include Tracheomyia macropi (Frogg.), which infected the trachea in 54.5% of the kangaroos [see RAE/B 4, p. 122].