bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
The diet of the Bridled nailtail wallaby (Onychogalea fraenata). II Overlap in dietry niche breadth and plant preferences with the black-striped wallaby (Macropus dorsalis) and domestic cattle
Authors: Dawson TJ , Tierney PJ , Ellis BA
Published: June 2005

Patterns of dietary selection were examined in the rare bridled nailtail wallaby (Onychogalea fraenata)
and compared with those of the black-striped wallaby (Macropus dorsalis) and cattle on the Taunton
Scientific Reserve in central Queensland. These two species were considered as possible competitors of
0, fraenata. The dietary niche breadth, the similarity of diet to resources, of 0. fraenata was always
narrower than those of the larger species. However, the niche breadths of all species broadened significantly
during the driest seasonal conditions, which accounts for the increased dietary overlaps
previously reported in these conditions. An analysis of dietary preferences (electivities) showed that
0. fraenata had a high preference for herbaceous plants (forbs and malvaceous species), whereas
M. dorsalis and cattle had high preference for grass. During dry conditions the preferred diet of
0. fraenata was considerably different to its actual diet, indicating that the diet was suboptimal. This
pattern was not as pronounced in the other herbivores, suggesting that 0. fraenata could be at a
competitive disadvantage during these conditions in its last refuge.
Concentrations of lead in bone and other tissues of Victorian waterfowl
Authors: Wickson RJ , Norman FI , Bacher GJ , Garnham JS
Published: June 2005

The concentrations of lead in wing bones of Victorian waterfowl were determined from samples
collected mainly during the opening weekend of the 1990 duck-hunting season. Of about 7000 wings
collected, 1134 (of 12 species and from wetland collection sites throughout the State) were subsampled
for analysis. Although lead concentrations in bone were low in some species (e.g. chestnut and grey teal,
freckled duck), higher concentrations were found in some small samples of diving ducks and in Pacific
black duck. Tissues of Pacific black duck from one major hunting area indicated exposure to lead.
Of 194 gizzards inspected, 28 (14.4%) contained ingested and eroded lead shotgun pellets. Lead
concentrations in the livers of some Pacific black duck were also elevated, with 4.6% having more than
2.0mg kg-1. Other studies have found that waterfowl may die after ingestion of lead shotgun pellets;
since such pellets may present a similar threat to local waterfowl populations, the use of alternative
non-toxic ammunition should be encouraged.
Secondary Poisoning Hazards Associated With 1080-Treated Carrot-Baiting Campaigns Against Rabbits, Oryctolagus Cuniculus.
Authors: Mcilroy JC , Gifford EJ
Published: June 2005

The conc. of 1080 (sodium monofluoroacetate) in dry muscle, organs, and stomach contents of rabbits poisoned by eating baited carrots ranged from 0.004 to 0.423 mg/g. Stomach contents (mainly masticated carrot bait) and livers contained the highest concn., followed by stomach tissue, kidneys, heart, and muscle. The total 1080 content in rabbits ranged from 0.01 to 4.88 mg. The risk of secondary poisoning in animals eating rabbits poisoned by 1080 was evaluated using 2 methods. Foxes, dingos, dogs and cats probably face the greatest risk of secondary poisoning. The extent to which other carrion-eating animals, particularly birds and small dasyurids, are at risk depends on their feeding habits and wheter they are able to vomit or develop an aversion to the taste and smell of 1080. Secondary poisoning can be minimized by using the minimum effective concn. of 1080 in baits and by removing the dead animals from the treated area.
A Comparison of Tooth Eruption and Wear and Dental Cementum Techniques in Age Determination of New Zealand Feral Pigs.
Authors: Clarke CMH , Dzieciolowski RM , Batcheler D , Frampton CM
Published: June 2005

This study evaluates dental ageing techniques for feral pigs in northern South I., New Zealand.
Ages of pigs were estimated by three techniques: tooth eruption and replacement on criteria calibrated
from pen-reared American-bred European wild pigs; tooth eruption, development, and wear calibrated
from known-age feral pigs from the study area; and annular growth in cementum of molariform teeth.
All age estimations showed strong agreement with each other and with known ages. The eruption and
replacement criteria were most useful for ageing pigs less than 30 months old, whereas the other two
criteria were more suited to ageing pigs more than 30 months old. All permanent teeth of New Zealand
feral pigs erupted 1-2 months earlier than in European and Malayan wild pigs, and permanent
premolars erupted up to 4 months earlier than in Japanese wild pigs. Earlier eruption may reflect early
onset of maturity in New Zealand pigs. The clarity of annuli observed varied between animals, but
generally increased with age. Pigs from unforested habitat had a higher percentage of clearly defined
annuli than those from forested habitat. This may be explained by a climatic or dietary factor.
Growth, survival and activity patterns of recently metamorphosed Bufo marinus
Authors: Cohen MP , Alford RA
Published: June 2005

We examined factors affecting the growth and survival of postmetamorphic Bufo marinus using
sampling and experiments. Bufo metamorphs, defined as newly emerged terrestrial toads of 9-29mm
snout-ischium length (SIL), were classified into four stages on the basis of colour and size. Stage 1
were uniformly black and about 9-12 mm SIL, stage 2 were mottled with orange spots and about
12-16mm SL, stage 3 had a white mid-dorsal line and were about 16-25mm SIL, and stage 4 had
enlarged parotoid glands and were about 25-29 mm SIL. We determined the density of each stage at
three distances (0-1, 2-3, 4-5m) from their larval habitat using 1 x 1-m quadrat samples. The mean
densities of all metamorphs within 1 m of water were 2.6m-2 and 2.1m-2 for the wet and early
dry seasons, respectively. The mean densities of all metamorphs during both seasons at 2-3m and
4-5m from water were 0.8m-2 and 0.6m-2, respectively. Stage 2 metamorphs were most common
in samples. Most stage 1 metamorphs occurred within 1m of the water in both seasons (98% wet;
95% dry). Increasing percentages of stage 2, 3 and 4 metamorphs occurred in samples 2-3 and 4-5m
from water (38, 49 and 80%, respectively, averaged over both seasons).
Three experiments examined the response of metamorph growth and survival rates to density in
open-topped flyscreen enclosures. Stage 1 or 2 metamorphs were established at initial densities of 3.3,
6.7 and 16.7m-2. Metamorphs in the lower-density enclosures grew more rapidly than metamorphs
in the higher-density enclosures. A profile analysis showed that daily survival rate was not densitydependent.
Correlation analyses showed that daily metamorph survival was influenced by daily maximum
and minimum temperatures. Metamorphs at lower densities attain juvenile size (30mm) more rapidly;
because they survive at the same daily rates as metamorphs at higher densities they experience lower
cumulative mortality as metamorphs.
Factors that control the emergence of green turtle hatchlings from the nest
Authors: Gyuris E
Published: June 2005

Sea turtle hatchlings typically emerge at night and temperature has often been suggested as controlling
the timing of emergence. Models based on threshold temperatures, above which hatchling activity is
inhibited, are not fully compatible with the observed temporal distribution of emergence. This study
reports on the temporal pattern of hatchling emergence and associated sand temperature profiles and
tidal regimes at Heron I., in the southern Great Barrier Reef, Australia. A new model is proposed on
the basis of sand temperature gradients instead of the absolute temperature of the sand surface.
The excellent fit between the temperature gradient model and the observed pattern of emergence
suggests that it is the temperature gradient in the top 10cm of the sand column rather than an absolute
temperature per se that turtle hatchlings use to time their emergence.
A preliminary evaluation of the performance of passive integrated transponders and metal tags in apopulation study of the flatback sea turtle, Nataor depressus
Authors: Parmeter CJ
Published: June 2005

Marking of nesting female Natator depressus with passive integrated transponders (PITs) at the major
eastern Australian rookery of Wild Duck I. was initiated in 1989. The failure rate of PITs after two
years was calculated and compared with loss probability estimates calculated for conventional metal
tags on the basis of 1979-91 data. PITs compared favourably in the short period of evaluation with
an 8% loss of identification after two years (n=37). Loss of metal tags was variable between metals
and tagging positions, with titanium tags applied to the axillary position of the front flippers being the
most effective in the long term. Factors peculiar to this species that affect loss of metal tags and
prospects of PIT performance in the long term are discussed.
Evaluation of analystical procedures for density estimation from line-transect data: data grouping, data truncation and the unit of analysis
Authors: Southwell C , Weaver K
Published: June 2005

We examined three aspects of line-transect analytical procedures: data grouping, data truncation and
the use of individuals or clusters as the analytical unit. Bias and precision of density estimation in
relation to various levels of these factors were assessed for 4 types of line-transect estimator (simple
parametric, generalised parametric, non-parametric and quasi-strip) using line-transect survey data from
macropod populations of known density. The effect of data grouping on bias and precision varied
between estimators. Bias was stable across all grouping levels tested for the simple parametric estimator,
and stable across aU but the coarsest grouping level for the generalised parametric and non-parametric
estimators, but varied substantially across the range of levels tested for the quasi-strip estimator.
Precision improved as the number of grouping levels increased for all estimators tested, but the extent
of improvement varied between estimators, and for the estimator most affected, improvement was
marginal beyond intermediate grouping levels. Density estimates were generally more accurate and
precise when analysed in ungrouped form than in grouped form. No effects of truncation on bias or
precision were detected. Varying the analytical unit did not affect bias, but precision was significantly
lower for cluster analysis than individual analysis for all estimators.
The effects of age, sex, reproductive status and temporal factors on the time-use of free-ranging red kangaroos
Authors: Watson DM , Dawson TJ
Published: June 2005

The effects of temporal (time of day and season) factors and size, sex, female reproductive state
and group size on the diel time-use of free-ranging red kangaroos (Macropus rufus) was examined.
Particular emphasis was given to the effects on their foraging behaviour, with foraging divided into
cropping, chewing and searching components. The study was conducted in semi-arid western New South
Wales from July 1991 to March 1992, a time of deepening drought conditions in New South Wales.
Group size had very little influence on the time-use of M. rufus. It was negatively but only weakly
correlated with the proportion of foraging time spent chewing (chewing intensity). No significant
differences in time-use were found between size classes of adult males (large and medium-sized males),
females with or without pouch young, or females with different-sized pouch young (no visible young,
small pouch young or large pouch young). Differences occurred between adult males, adult females
and subadult kangaroos. These differences were mainly associated with their chewing and searching
behaviour and were related to body size; as body size increased the proportion of time spent chewing
and the intensity of chewing increased while the proportion of time searching and the proportion of
foraging time spent searching (searching intensity) decreased. Neither the proportion of time spent
cropping or foraging nor the proportion of foraging time spent cropping (cropping intensity) or the
proportion of active time spent foraging (foraging intensity) differed between any size/sex/reproductive
class. Temporal effects had a considerable influence on time-use. M. rufus were most active at night
and in the few hours after sunrise and sunset. Seasonal changes in time-use were largely a result of
changes in daytime behaviour. M. rufus foraged less and rested more during the day in winter than in
spring or summer. There was no increase in the intensity or proportion of time spent foraging or
cropping at night to compensate for the reduction in diurnal foraging. It is hypothesised that temporal
variations in time-use were related to variations in weather and vegetation conditions.
Nesting Requirements of the Yellow-Tailed Black-Cockatoo, Calyptorhynchus Funereus, in Eucalyptus Regnans Forest, and Implications for Forest Management.
Authors: Nelson JL , Morris BJ
Published: June 2005

The nesting requirements of the yellow-tailed black-cockatoo (Calyptorhynchus funereus) were studied at 68 sites in Eucalyptus regnans forest in the Strzelecki Ranges, South Gippsland, Victoria. Nest trees were located and their characteristics related to forest stand variables. Eighteen nest hollows were found. Nest trees had a mean diameter at breast height of 2.5 m, a mean estimated age of 221 years, a mean height of 58 m and for live nest trees a mean crown diameter of 22 m. The currently proposed rotation time for silvicultural systems of 80-150 years will reduce the number of hollow-bearing trees suitable for nesting yellow-tailed black-cockatoos. Adequate numbers of trees must be retained in logged areas and wildlife corridors and reserves, and protected to ensure a continual supply for yellow-tailed black-cockatoos and other hollow-dependent species. If agonistic behaviour is operating between female yellow-tailed black-cockatoos, nesting potential may be enhanced if trees retained on coupes are evenly distributed rather than clumped. Silvicultural systems that facilitate the protection of trees retained on coupes would benefit the conservation of the yellow-tailed black-cockatoo.
Dugong distribution, the seagrass Halophila spinulosa, and thermal environment in winter indeeper waters of eastern Shark Bay, WA
Authors: Anderson PK
Published: June 2005

Five aerial survey transects in eastern Shark Bay, along which dugongs (Dugong dugon) had been
reported in deep water in July 1989, were flown on 3 and 14 July 1992. As in 1989, dugong sightings
were concentrated between 9- and 15-m depth contours. Thermal patterns shown on images obtained
from NOAA satellites, and direct measurement of temperatures in the water column, confirmed that
temperatures were at least 19�C where dugongs were concentrated. Although no seagrass had previously
been reported in this zone, examination of benthic communities using a remotely controlled underwater
video system revealed an apparently monospecific stand of Halophila spinulosa. Dugong behaviour,
observed from a 10-m catamaran, indicated that the animals were diving to the bottom. Long, deep
dives may be more costly in time and energy than the shorter dives characteristic of feeding in shallow
water. H. spinulosa has large fleshy rhizomes similar to those known to contain abundant starch in
other members of the genus and it is suggested that carbohydrate-rich rhizomes might compensate
for the higher costs of foraging in deep water. Previously known stands of preferred forage species
appeared inadequate to support the large dugong population of Shark Bay, but if temperatures are
favourable throughout the winter and if the H. spinulosu observed in this study is available throughout
the year, this H. spinulosa community may be an important resource for the Shark Bay dugong
population.
Population demography of the eastern barred bandicoot (Perameles gunnii) at Hamilton, Victoria
Authors: Dufty AC
Published: June 2005

Totals of 32 female and 53 male Perameles gunnii were caught 241 and 330 times, respectively,
during 4340 trap-nights at Hamilton, Victoria. Residents comprised 75.3% (n = 64) of the
sample. Morphometric comparison indicates that P. gunnii is sexually dimorphic. Sex ratios
(expressed in percentage of females) of 55% (dependent juvenile), 45% (independent juvenile)
and 37.9% (adult) were determined. The age structure of the live-trapped population changed
substantially between July 1989 (42.9% juvenile, 9.5% subadult and 47.6% adult) and August
1990 (46.2% juvenile, 15.4% subadult and 34.6% adult). The mean age of captured female
bandicoots increased during the study, from 9.8 months in July 1989 to 15.8 months in August
1990. In all, 24 of 32 females produced 145 pouch young in 66 litters, with a mean W e . )
litter size of 2.2+/-0.1 (n = 66). The number of females that were lactating each month was high
throughout the study (85%) and peaked during spring and autumn when all captured females were
lactating. Sexual maturity for males and females occurred at about 5 and 3.5 months of age,
respectively. The causes of mortality of P. gunnii between 1980 and 1990 included road death
(63%, n = 85), cat predation (17.8%, n = 24), disease (8.1%, n = 11), trap death (5.2%, n = 7),
machinery (3.7%, n = 5) and dog predation (2.2%, n = 3). A total of 25 P. gunnii died from
unknown causes. Cat predation of P. gunnii may be high amongst juveniles and subadults but
low for adults. A net emigration rate of 18% of individuals known to be alive indicates that the
Hamilton Municipal Tip is a source for dispersal to other subpopulations. The 1990 distribution
of the population was about 169 ha, within the City of Hamilton and adjacent Shire of Dundas,
Victoria. There has been a decline in distribution and some local extinctions of P. gunnii in
several areas between 1988 and 1990.
Influence of pit-trap design on sampling of reptiles in arid spinifex grasslands
Authors: Hobbs TJ , Morton SR , Masters P , Jones KR
Published: June 2005

Eight different pit-trap designs were compared to determine the most effective design for capturing reptiles
in arid spinifex grasslands of central Australia. Results from seven surveys within two studies showed that
more complicated designs with cross fences did not significantly increase trapping success. A simple
straight line of pit-traps and drift fence with buckets approximately 7 m apart is the most effective design
and is recommended for sampling reptiles in arid Australia.
Seasonal patterns of fecundity and diet of roof rats in a Hawaiian macadamia orchard
Authors: Tobin ME , Koehler AE , Sugihara RT
Published: June 2005

We determined seasonal patterns of fecundity and diet of roof rats (Rattus rattus) snap-trapped in
an orchard of macadamias (Macadamia integrifolia), and assessed the implications for controlling
rat damage to macadamia nuts. In all, 903 males, 756 females, and 16 rats of unidentified sex
were captured between June 1990 and April 1991. Sex ratios varied from 1 : 1 only during August,
when males outnumbered females (P < 0.05). Subadult rats were present throughout the study
and comprised 31% of captures. Adult male roof rats were in reproductive condition throughout
the year, and females bore young during every month of the study. Average monthly pregnancy
rates varied from 8% to 54% and were highest in April. Mean prenatal litter size ranged from
3.0 to 6.5 among months. Macadamia nut was the dominant food item throughout the study,
and was present in all 199 stomachs inspected, with a mean relative frequency of 85%. Insect
fragments, primarily lepidopteran larvae, occurred in 66% of the stomachs, with a mean relative
frequency of 8%. Moss was found in 48% of the stomachs, with a mean relative frequency
of 4%. Grass seeds, fruit seeds and non-insect animal material were present in small amounts.
These results show that, in areas with prolonged macadamia flowering and subsequent extended
periods of nut availability, roof rats breed throughout the year on a diet consisting mostly of
macadamia nuts. In such situations, growers may need to apply control measures throughout the
crop cycle to keep rat damage at acceptable levels.
Activity area during the breeding season of Varanus gouldii (Reptilia : Varanidae) in an urban environment.
Authors: Thompson G
Published: June 2005

The activity area of ten Varanus gouldii in Karrakatta Cemetery, Perth, Western Australia, was
measured by daily locations obtained by telemetry, during the breeding season (October-December)
in 1992. The mean size of activity area was 8.91 ha; activity area was positively correlated
with body size. There were significant overlaps in activity areas and no evidence of territoriality
for male or female V. gouldii. The animals often foraged in areas of dense leaf litter near the
periphery of their activity area and retreated to burrows that were more centrally located.
Changes in the abundance of New Zealand fur seals, Arctocephalus forsteri, on Kangaroo Island, South Australia
Authors: Shaughnessy PD , Goldsworthy SD , Libke JA
Published: June 2005

Kangaroo Island was an important seal-harvesting site during the early years of European colonisation of Australia. A recent survey of the New Zealand fur seal, Arctocephalus forsteri, in South and Western Australia indicates that Kangaroo I. is still an important centre for the species. In order to determine changes in the abundance of the population, numbers of pups were determined at four colonies on Kangaroo Island by mark-recapture in up to five breeding seasons from 1988-89 to 1992-93.
Clipping was the preferred technique for mark-recapture estimation of pups because it was quick, easy and effective. Recaptures were conducted visually; they were repeated several times in each season to improve precision of the estimates. No pups were marked between recaptures in order to minimise disturbance. Assumptions made in estimating population size by the mark-recapture technique pertinent to this study are reviewed.
Pup numbers increased at three colonies: at Cape Gantheaume, from 458 to 867 over five years (with exponential rate of increase r = 0.16, n = 5); at Nautilus North, from 182 to 376 over five years (at r = 0.19, n = 4); and at North Casuarina Islet, from 442 to 503 over four years (at r = 0.043, n = 2). Rates of increase in the first two colonies are similar to those at the most rapidly increasing fur seal populations in the Southern Hemisphere. The Kangaroo I. population is estimated to be 10000 animals in 1992-93. It is likely to be at the recolonisation phase of growth, with high rates of increase at individual colonies (or parts of colonies) resulting from local immigration. As space does not appear to be limiting expansion in these colonies, fur seal numbers may continue to increase there.
Population ecology of the squirrel glider (Petaurus norfolcensis) and the sugar glider (P. breviceps) (Maruspialia : Petauridae) at Limeburners Creek, on the central north coast of New South Wales
Authors: Quin DG
Published: June 2005

The population ecology of the squirrel glider (Petaurus norfolcensis) and the sugar glider (P. breviceps)
was studied at Limeburners Creek Nature Reserve, on the central north coast of New South Wales. The
study was undertaken between July 1986 and November 1988.
Sugar and squirrel gliders at Limeburners Creek exhibited similar home-range sizes (2.54 ha) despite
considerable differences in mean mass between the species (squirrel glider 192-213 g; sugar
glider, 104-119 g). Squirrel gliders existed at higher densities (049-1.54 ha-') than did sugar gliders
(0.24454 ha-') and populations of both species exhibited male-biased sex ratios. The timing of births was
not consistent between years and, at least in the squirrel glider, occurred in almost all months of the year
over the 2.5-year study. Usually a winter peak in births that extended into spring was apparent, sometimes
following an autumn peak. Mean litter size for both species (1.8-1.9) was similar to that recorded for the
sugar glider in Victoria. Most adult females of both species exhibited the capacity to raise two litters in a
year. Hence, natality rates (2.3-2.4 young per year) at Limeburners Creek were high relative to those
recorded for the sugar glider in Victoria. Recruit persistence time (3.0-3.5 seasons) was similar between the
species and recruitment appeared to be most successful during years when heavy eucalypt and Banksia
flowering was recorded. Populations of both species were characterised by high rates of juvenile dispersal
and mortality. Young gliders dispersed at a mean age of 10.9 and 12.5 months in the sugar glider and the
squirrel glider, respecti~e1y;SquirreI gliders nested in colonies of 2-Bindividuals. Usually at least one male
and two females nested together, suggesting a polygynous mating strategy. The mating system of the sugar
glider at Limebumers Creek was less clear, but colonies appeared to comprise at least monogamous pairs
with or without a surplus of males. Sugar glider colonies at Limebumers Creek varied in size from two to
seven individuals. The larger squirrel gliders were clearly dominant to the smaller sugar gliders in
interspecific behavioural interactions. Inconsistencies in body-weight fluctuations between years for both
species were thought to be a consequence of the unpredictable nature of the aseasonal, coastal climates and
resulting food resource abundances.
Abundance of Australian fur seal pups, Arctocephalus pusillus doriferus, at Seal Rocks, Victoria, in 1991-92 from Petersen and Bayesian estimators
Authors: Shaughnessy PD , Testa JW , Warneke RM
Published: June 2005

Seal Rocks is the largest colony of the Australian fur seal, Arctocephalus pusillus doriferus; annual pup
production in the late 1960s and early 1970s was estimated to be 210C-2200 by counting and tagging. In
the 1991-92 pupping season, the abundance of pups at Seal Rocks was estimated by counting and by
mark-recapture with repeated recapture sessions. Counts of pups from elevated positions on the island in
early December resulted in an estimate of 2440. In all, 816 pups were marked by shearing guard hairs from
the head in late December; pups were resighted in six recapture sessions. Mark-recapture estimates of the
number of pups alive in late December were calculated with a modified Petersen formula and with
Bayesian statistics (2817 and 2819 pups, respectively). These approaches require the same basic assumption
to be satisfied: that marked and unmarked pups have an equal probability of being recorded in recapture
sessions. About 29% of pups sighted in the recapture samples were marked. More-conservative 95%
confidence intervals resulted from the Bayesian method (2709-2933) than from modified Petersen statistics
(2725-2908), but the logic underlying confidence intervals is different in the two cases. Comparison of the
mark-recapture estimate and that based on direct counting for the 1991-92 breeding season indicates that
pup production at Seal Rocks has probably been higher than reported previously, by a factor of 1.15.
Population dynamics of, and habitat use by, Austrlian native rodents in wet sclerophyll forest, Tasmania II. Pseudomys higginsi (Rodentia : Muridae)
Authors: Monamy V
Published: June 2005

A local population of Tasmanian long-tailed mice, Pseudomys higginsi, occupying an area of wet sclerophyll forest at low density was studied for 13 months using mark-recapture techniques. Individuals in the trappable population were readily recaught (29 individuals caught 183 times). Demographic data are presented for a single age cohort born in 1989 (21 individuals trapped 126 times) and surviving until the end of the trapping programme (April 1990). Habitat use was investigated by comparing data from individuals active within four contiguous areas of forest displaying structural and floristic heterogeneity. Trap-revealed habitat use indicated that P. higginsi was completely absent from areas of thickest ground cover where densities of the sympatric murid, Rams lutreolus velutinus, were highest. Conversely, captures of P. higginsi were highest in areas of boulder scree where captures of R. 1. velutinus were lower than expected. Relative numbers of individuals active in each macrohabitat group are examined and a role for interspecific competition between these rodent species is inferred.
Reproductive ecology of the orange horshoe bat, Rhinonycteris aurantius (Hipposideridae : Chiroptera), a tropical cave-dweller
Authors: Churchill SK
Published: June 2005

Rhinonycteris aurantius has a seasonally monoestrous reproductive pattern. Males do not become sexually
mature until their second year, at about 16 months of age. Mature spermatozoa were observed in the testes
in April, with increasing numbers of sperm recorded until copulation in July, declining numbers from
August to October and none observed during the wet season from December to March. Females attain
sexual maturity at seven months of age. The gestation period is prolonged (approximately 150 days) from
July to December with the young weaned and independent by late February. Despite this species' utilisation
of hot and humid caves during the dry season, late pregnancy, parturition and weaning take place away
from the cave environment.
The first three months of pregnancy in females and the production of sperm in males occurs during
periods of low food availability. However, there is coincidence of maximum food availability with late
pregnancy and lactation, obviating sperm storage and/or delayed embryonic development.
Spatial heterogeneity in wild populations of house mice (Mus domesticus) on the Darling Downs, South eastern Queensland
Authors: Chambers LK , Singleton GR , Wensveen MV
Published: June 2005

This study examined habitat use by house mice (Mus domesticus) in an agricultural landscape during a
phase of population increase. The primary aim was to determine whether spatial heterogeneity is an
important consideration when examining population processes of mice. Mice within a 4-km2 trapping zone
were trapped on approximately 36 transects at each of six farms on the Darling Downs, Queensland, in May
and June 1992. There were 2100 trap-nights at each farm. Most mice were caught in undisturbed grass
verges along fencelines. Undisturbed verges also harboured mice of above-average body condition and had
the highest proportion of adult females breeding. High numbers of mice were caught also in roadside
verges, long sorghum stubble and ripe summer crops. Few mice were caught in fallow paddocks, short
sorghum stubble and ploughed sorghum stubble. Habitat use did not vary with sex or age-class. The
distribution of mice amongst habitats varied at each farm. Thus, over the two months there were farm-level
differences in how mice used the landscape in this agricultural system. These variations in habitat use by
mice were significant at both a fine scale of habitat classification (seven habitat types) and a broader scale
(four habitat types) more generally applicable to grain-growing regions in Australia. This study
demonstrates that spatial heterogeneity needs to be considered when designing trapping protocols or control
strategies for mice.
Preliminary Field Assessment of a Cabergoline Baiting Campaign for Reproductive Control of the Red Fox (Vulpes Vulpes).
Authors: Marks CA , Nijk M , Gigliotti F , Busana F , Short RV
Published: June 2005

The use of poison baiting in Australia to control foxes is impractical in urban areas and some wildlife reserves because of hazards to non-target animals. More acceptable methods of fox control in such environments are needed. Cabergoline is a dopamine agonist that has previously been demonstrated to have an abortifacient effect in cats (Felis catus) and dogs (Canis familiaris). The prolactin-inhibiting action of cabergoline may also result in cessation of lactation. Cabergoline has been shown to be completely palatable to foxes and is easily incorporated into a non-poisonous bait. The ability of bait-delivered cabergoline to effect the birth of viable fox cubs was tested in urban Melbourne and rural Bendigo, Victoria. A sample of 51 natal dens were chosen for this study on the basis that they had been active for 3 consecutive years (1991-93). 30 treatment dens were randomly selected and each treated once during August and again during September 1994 with 8 non-poisonous Foxoff baits containing 170 micro g of cabergoline and 200 mg of tetracycline to act as a biomarker. The remaining 21 dens were used as controls. Baits were randomly placed by burial within a 50-m radius of the den. Activity of all dens was assessed until December 1994 for direct/indirect signs of fox cubs. Bait uptake was >88% overall for the treatment dens. The resulting incidence of cubs was significantly lower in the treatment dens than in the controls. The potential for cabergoline to be used in urban areas and island populations as an adjunct to conventional control methods is discussed.
Characteristics of the litter of the gidgee skink, Egernia stokesii
Authors: Duffield GA , Bull MC
Published: June 2005

The viviparous birth of Egernia stokesii, an Australian skink, is described. Data from 29 litters over three
years from a population near Hawker, South Australia, are presented. Females produced an average 5.07
young per litter in February or March. Litters were produced over an average 2.8 days. Newborn juveniles
weighed an average 8.15 g and had an average snout-vent length of 6.73 cm. Juveniles in larger litters were
smaller, when the effect of the size of the mother was taken into account. The average relative clutch mass
was 16.5% when the weight of the litter was taken as a proportion of mass of gravid female, or 20.1%
considering mass of post-partum female. The data are discussed in the context of life-history patterns of
Australian skinks.
Use of Nest Trees by the Mountain Brushtail Possum (Trichosurus Caninus) (Phalangeridae: Marsupialia). I. Number of Occupied Trees and Frequency of Tree Use.
Authors: Lindenmayer DB , Welsh A , Donelley CF , Meggs RA
Published: June 2005

A study was made of the use of trees with hollows by 10 adult male and 6 adult female mountain brushtail possums (Trichosurus caninus) at a 35-ha site in central Victoria, south-eastern Australia. Radio-tracking was used to identify which trees were being used as den sites by animals during an 18-month period between September 1990 and March 1992. Analyses of the data showed that, although 113 different trees were used by the 16 animals, most were occupied infrequently. The total number of trees used by a given animal ranged from 5 to 23. However, the majority of individuals spent most of their time denning in 1-3 trees. Of the 113 den trees, 70 were found to have been used by only 1 animal, 54 trees were used exclusively by males, and 28 trees by females only. Twelve trees were used extensively (on >40 occasions) but only 1 was used extensively by both sexes. Most of the T. caninus radio-tracked typically used 2 or more nest trees per week, indicating that animals moved frequently between den sites. Some animals used up to 6 different trees per week. Some possible reasons for this behaviour in T. caninus are discussed.
Abundance, Zonation and Foraging Ecology of Birds in Mangroves of Darwin Harbour, Northern Territory.
Authors: Noske RA
Published: June 2005

The density, seasonality, habitat utilization and foraging ecology of birds in mangals (mangrove forests) at a site on the upper reaches of Darwin Harbour were investigated by transect censusing and colour-banding over three years. Despite having only 10 species of plants, the site supported 17 confirmed and five probable breeding resident species of birds, and was visited by 30 more. From variable-width transect censuses, the mean density of birds on a 4-ha plot was estimated to be 25 ha-1, fairly consistent with densities obtained from territory mapping of colour-banded birds. Nearly 70% of the individuals belonged to just 4 species: two mangal-dependent species, the red-headed honeyeater (Myzomela erythrocephala) and the yellow white-eye (Zosterops lutea) and two more generalised species, the large-billed gerygone (Gerygone magnirostris) and the brown honeyeater (Lichmera indistincta). Only the red-headed honeyeater showed significant seasonal variation in abundance, with highest numbers during the late dry season after breeding. This coincided with the period of greatest food (nectar) availability in the mangal, due to flowering Bruguiera exaristata. Lowest numbers of the red-headed honeyeater (and the brown honeyeater) occurred in the late wet season when nectar was scarce in the mangal but abundant in Melaleuca cajuputi fringing the mangal. Several resident species held permanent territories, while others apparently shifted landward during the wet season, possibly due to the wetter conditions created by freshwater runoff and high spring tides Many species showed strong associations with particular mangal zones. Large-billed gerygones, grey whistlers (Pachycephala simplex), shining flycatchers (Myiagra alecto) and mangrove fantails (Rhipidura phasiana) were associated with the Rhizophora zone at the wetter (more frequently inundated) end of the plot; mangrove robins (Eopsaltria pulverulenta) and mangrove gerygones (Gerygone laevigaster), were encountered most in the Ceriops zone; and green-backed gerygones (Gerygone chloronata) strongly favoured the dry landward edge. Four foraging guilds were evident among 13 of the most abundant species, the largest of which was the insectivorous foliage-foraging guild. Species in this group partitioned resources by differential selection of mangrove species, heights and foraging techniques. The tiny (6.4 g) mangrove gerygone was the most specialized species, spending 80% of its time on Avicennia marina. Contrary to the literature, breeding of mangal-dwelling birds peaked during the dry season. The ecology, evolution and biogeography of mangrove-endemic birds is reviewed in the light of this study and recent information from Western Australia.
Home ranges and movement schedules of sympatric bridled nailtail and black-striped wallabies
Authors: Evans M
Published: June 2005

Home ranges and movement schedules of sympatric bridled nailtail wallabies, Onychogalea fraenata, and
black-striped wallabies, Macropus dorsalis, were studied during wet and dry seasons by radio-tracking.
Home ranges of black-striped wallabies (91 ha) were much larger than those of bridled nailtail wallabies
(40 ha). Home-range size differed between sexes for bridled nailtail wallabies (males, 59 ha; females,
26 ha), but not for black-striped wallabies. Intraspecific seasonal differences in home-range size were not
significant. All home ranges included diurnal shelter habitat, although the preferred type of shelter habitat
was different for each species. Movement schedules differed significantly between wet and dry seasons for
black-striped wallabies (which made a higher frequency of longer-distance movements during the dry
season than during the wet season), but not for bridled nailtail wallabies.
Trials of electric fencing for restricting movements of common brushtail possums, Trichosurus vulpecula Kerr
Authors: Clapperton BK , Matthews LR
Published: June 2005

The responses of common brushtail possums, Trichosurus vulpecula, to a mesh fence with electrified
outrigger wires were examined in a series of trials in an outside enclosure. Possums initially had no
hesitation in approaching the fence. Their first contact was usually with the lower hot wire(s). Possums
responded to shocks by jumping back, rolling, running away, grooming and head-shaking. Responses
depended upon the part of the body contacting the fence. No possums climbed over the electrified fence
during a total of 50 trials. Over three or four repeated exposures, eight possums successively took longer to
approach the fence and longer to receive the first shock, spent less time in the vicinity of the fence, and
received fewer shocks during the first 2 h of the trial. However, over the whole night there was no
significant drop in shock frequencies. The addition of a second lower hot wire and an increase in the pulse
rate did not prevent possums that had successfully been contained by the fence from breaching the fence
when chased towards it repeatedly; 7 of 12 possums were forced over the fence. Possums that had learned
to avoid the live fence crossed the fence within 1-7 h after the fence was turned off. Speed and duration of
avoidance learning in possums are compared with those in other species. These trials suggest that a
combination fence of electrified 'hot wire' and mesh could be useful in reducing contact between possums
and farm animals for the control of tuberculosis, reducing possum migration into areas that are free of
tuberculosis or of high conservation value, and protecting crops.
Survey of the Nasal Mite Fauna (Rhinonyssidae and Kytoditidae) of the Gouldian Finch, Erythrura Gouldiae, and Some Co-Occurring Birds in the Northern Territory.
Authors: Bell PJ
Published: June 2005

The rhinonyssid and kytoditid mite fauna in the endangered finch E. gouldiae and 6 co-occurring species (long-tailed finches (Poephila acuticauda), masked finches (P. personata), pictorella manikins (Heteromunia pectoralis), zebra finches (Taeniopygia guttata), double-barred finches (T. bichenovii) and budgerigars (Melopsittacus undulatus)) in Northern Territory, Australia, were surveyed over a 3-year period to assess prevalence and intensity of infection and to determine the stability in these parameters over space and time. These data were used to examine the likelihood that prevalence and intensity of infection by the rhinonyssid mite Sternostoma tracheacolum in E. gouldiae are in any way aberrant. 12 new host records for rhinonyssid and kytoditid mites are reported from 2 localities in the Northern Territory. Kytonyssus andrei is a new genus record and S. paddae and Kytodites amandavae are new species records for Australia. S. tracheacolum was found to infect E. gouldiae, P. personata, M. undulatus and H. pectoralis. The other nasal mites found were Sternostoma sp., Ptilonyssus astrildae, P. neochmiae and P. emberizae. Prevalence and intensity of infection with S. tracheacolum were significantly higher in E. gouldiae than in Poephila personata and M. undulatus, but were not significantly higher than those found in H. pectoralis. The frequency distribution of infrapopulation sizes of S. tracheacolum in pooled E. gouldiae samples was significantly different from that found in pooled M. undulatus and P. personata samples but not from pooled H. pectoralis samples. Prevalence and intensity of infection by rhinonyssid mites in E. gouldiae were significantly higher than infection in all other host species examined, except H. pectoralis. Significant increases in the intensity of infection in H. pectoralis were detected between 1992-94, suggesting that this species may also be under threat from parasitism by S. tracheacolum.
Movements and Home Ranges of Feral Pigs (Sus Scrofa) in Kosciusko National Park, New South Wales.
Authors: Saunders G , Kay B
Published: June 2005

The movements of a subalpine population of feral pigs were examined at Kosciusko National Park in southeastern
New South Wales. Sufficient data were collected to estimate the home-range area of 20 pigs on the
basis of 782 telemetry and trap locations. Mean (+/- s.d.) home-range size (minimum convex polygon
method) for males (35.0 t 22.2 km*2) was significantly greater than that for females (1 1.1 +/- 5.2 km*2). Use
of capture-recapture distances to estimate home-range size was considered inappropriate. A test for
nomadism suggests that, although home ranges of pigs in this environment were larger than those reported
for other pigs in Australia, the pigs were essentially sedentary. Management implications for this population
are discussed.
Stautus of the Australian sea lion, Neophoca cinerea, in the Great Australian Bight
Authors: Dennis TE , Shaughnessy PD
Published: June 2005

In August 1994, a systematic survey of potential haulout sites of the Australian sea lion, Neophoca cinerea,
was conducted along the coastline of the Great Australian Bight from Twin Rocks to Wilson Bluff, a
distance of 206 km. A total of 289 Australian sea lions was recorded at 23 sites widely dispersed at the base
of the Bunda Cliffs, hauled out on perched platforms formed by collapsed sections of cliff at various levels
above the sea. Of these, 37 sea lions were recorded in a deep cave accessed from the sea. The total included
86 pups aged under 12 months, which were probably born in the region; six of these had almost completed
moulting their natal pelage and were estimated to be near four months old. Only 12 New Zealand fur seals,
Arctocephalus forsteri, were recorded.
The Australian sea lion sites located in 1994 were surveyed again in August-September 1995, during a
predicted breeding season. In this survey, a total of 284 sea lions was recorded at nine sites in South
Australia and one site in Western Australia. This included 90 pups under six months of age, of which 44
were still in lanugo. Overall, we recorded 10 breeding sites and 14 haulout sites.
Breeding events were recorded at one colony over three seasons and were consistent with an 18-month
cycle. By extrapolating from the number of sea lion pups found in 1994, the population for the Great
Australian Bight region in South Australia is estimated to be 613-774. This addition increases the previous
estimate for South Australia by 9.3% and the previous total population estimate by 6.6%.
microRNA172
down-regulates
glossy15
to promote vegetative phase change in maize
Authors: Lauter Nick , Kampani Archana , Carlson Shawn , Goebel Mark , Moose Stephen P.
Published: June 2005

Shoot development in many higher plant species is characterized by phase change, where meristems and organs transition from one set of identities to another. The transition from a juvenile to adult leaf identity in maize is regulated by the
APETALA2
-like gene
glossy15
(
gl15
). We demonstrate here that increasing
gl15
activity in transgenic maize not only increases the number of leaves expressing juvenile traits, but also delays the onset of reproductive development, indicating that
gl15
plays a primary role in the maintenance of the juvenile phase. We also show that the accumulation of a maize microRNA homologous to
miR172
increases during shoot development and mediates
gl15
mRNA degradation. These data indicate that vegetative phase change in maize is regulated by the opposing actions of
gl15
and
miR172
, with
gl15
maintaining the juvenile phase and
miR172
promoting the transition to the adult phase by down-regulation of
gl15
. Our results also suggest that the balance of activities between
APETALA2
-like genes and
miR172
may be a general mechanism for regulating vegetative phase change in higher plants.