bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Moulting Sequences in the Development of Tail Plumage of the Superb Lyrebird, Menura novaehollandiae
Authors: Smith LH
Published: June 2005

The tail of the superb lyrebird consists of 12 filamentary feathers flanked by two broad lyrates,
distinguished by their pigmented bars, and two fine wire-like medians in the middle. The female's tail
consists of 12 plain broadfeathers between two lyrates, which are less pigmented than those of the male,
and two plain broad medians, all feathers being shorter than those of the male. The tail of the 1st-year
lyrebird resembles that of the female, but the lyrates are shorter and only faintly barred. The
transformation of the immature tail into the mature form proceeds through a series of annual moults,
extending over 6-8 years, during which the three types of feathers change their respective forms. Each
bird follows its own course and each follicle acts independently of the others during maturation, but
becomes coordinated as the bird approaches maturity. Dimensions and weights are given for the various
types of feathers and for complete tails, which are described and illustrated, along with moulting
schedules for several birds. Data are given for the total rate of production of keratin in the entire tails and
for individual follicles for birds of different ages. The role of the endocrine system in the maturation
process is discussed.
Moult of New Holland Honeyeaters, Phylidonyris novaehollandiae (Aves : Meliphagidae), in Victoria I. Moult of Adults
Authors: Paton DC
Published: June 2005

In two populations of New Holland honeyeaters Phylidonyris novaehollandiae in Victoria, the sequence of
feather replacement in the adult was typically passerine. The primaries were replaced from the innermost
outwards, the secondaries from the outermost inwards and the rectrices from the centre outwards. Moult
of secondaries and rectrices commenced later than the moult of primaries, and although all the rectrices
had been replaced before the last primaries, the innermost secondaries were still growing after the last
primaries had been replaced. Individuals took, on average, 106 days to replace all their primaries, and
about 130 days to replace all their flight feathers. Flight feathers were replaced between October and
March; body feathers were replaced throughout the year, but mainly during summer, when the birds also
moulted their flight feathers. Moult usually commenced after spring breeding, and differences in the
timing of moult between populations and years can be related to differences in the completion of spring
breeding. Females commenced their moult, on average, 14 days later than males; this is probably due to
the greater energy and protein commitments of females during breeding. Breeding and moult were usually
mutually exclusive, and several females arrested their primary or secondary moult while breeding over
autumn (February-April). Body moult was least during breeding.
Moult of New Holland Honeyeaters, Phylidonyris novaehollandiae (Aves : Meliphagidae), in Victoria II. Moult of Juveniles
Authors: Paton DC
Published: June 2005

Juvenile New Holland honeyeaters that hatched in autumn commenced a moult in the following spring
when about 6 months old. This moult was complete, and the sequence of feather replacement was the
same as that of adults; all the primary coverts were replaced. Juveniles that hatched in spring commenced
a moult in the summer when 2-6 months old. This moult was usually incomplete; many birds
commenced on the second, third or fourth primary, and moult of primaries then proceeded regularly
outwards to the tenth primary. Moult of secondaries and rectrices was often incomplete and irregular,
and tertiaries were usually all replaced. The primary coverts were rarely replaced. A few spring-hatched
juveniles replaced no flight feathers. The later the moult began in spring-hatched juveniles, the more likely
it was to start on a more distal primary, and to be less complete in other tracts. Differences in the timing
and extent of the moult in different populations and years appeared to be related to food levels. When
carbohydrate sources were scarce, the frequency of arrested moult, fault bars and short feathers was
higher. Juveniles replaced primaries at a slower rate than adults.
Homing by Wild House-Mice Displaced with or without the Opportunity to See
Authors: Newsome AE , Cowan PE , Ives PM
Published: June 2005

The use of vision as a means of homing was studied by displacing resident house-mice, Mus musculus, to
distances of 67, 135 or 200 m, within 5 min of being caught. Some were carried in the pocket (blindfold)
and others carried so that they could see. The blindfold mice did not home as well as the others from any
distance over periods of 1 d, 2 d, or 1 month. In similar studies rodents were either blinded or were taken
away from the study site for varying lengths of time before displacement: all indicate a decline in homing
success with distance. One study of blinded mice implicates vision as a means of homing, as does reinterpretation of the results of another. In our study success in homing was high from up to 135 m, suggesting that normal home ranges may extend well beyond trap-revealed ranges. The ability to orientduring displacement may be important. Whether a trapping study can elucidate the mechanisms of homing is questioned.
A Shortage of Water in Natural Pastures as a Factor Limiting a Population of Rabbits, Oryctolagus cuniculus (L.), in Arid. North-Eastern South Australia
Authors: Cooke BD
Published: June 2005

Shortage of water in natural pastures led to a sharp decline in a large rabbit population in arid, northeastern
South Australia. The pastures were dry and some rabbits drank at springs and water troughs.
Further from water, rabbits climbed trees and shrubs to obtain succulent leaves and twigs. Rabbits
provided with water maintained their weight and apparently survived better than those which did not
drink. It seems unlikely that the rabbits lost weight because the water shortage reduced the amount of dry
food they could eat. In caged rabbits, water shortage limits food intake but also results in low gut fill;
whereas the wild rabbits had the normal amount of digesta in their guts. It is more likely that, as the
pastures became dry, rabbits ate woody twigs and bark which were moist enough to meet their water
requirements but contained too little digestible energy for maintenance. The water shortage apparently
arose because rabbits were numerous and had eaten out the succulent pasture plants. Normally, it takes a
long drought to reduce arid-zone plants to dry straw, and overgrazing is probably the usual cause of a
lack of adequate water for rabbits.
Control of Rabbits on Macquarie Island by Myxomatosis.
Authors: Brothers NP , Eberhard IE , Copson GR , Skira IJ
Published: June 2005

Myxomatosis was successfully introduced into the rabbit population on Macquarie Island, Australia, in November 1978 as a biological control agent. Up to February 1981, success had not been achieved over the whole island, primarily because of the irregular distribution of Spilopsyllus cuniculi (Dale) (the introduction of which had begun in 1968) and the occurrence of rabbits in isolated and sedentary pockets. Continuing the introduction of the virus and vector should extend the control and permit the recovery of important subantarctic plant alliances.
The Sensitivity of Australian Animals to 1080 Poison IV. Native and Introduced Rodents
Authors: Mcilroy JC
Published: June 2005

Most rodent species that have been tested in Australia and elsewhere are highly sensitive to 1080 poison.
A few native species. particularly members of the 'pseudo-mouse group' (Conilurini), part of whose range
is in Western Australia, are much more tolerant. These species may have developed this tolerance from
being exposed to indigenous plants that contain fluoroacetate. The most common signs of poisoning
amongst rodents are depression, hypersensitivity to stimuli, respiratory distress and convulsions. Signs of
poisoning first appeared amongst the species tested in this study 0.4-38.1 h after dosing. Deaths
occurred 0.7-205.8 h after dosing. The susceptibility to 1080-poisoning of the 14 species of rodents tested
in Australia depends on both sensitivity and body size, and is discussed in relation to typical baits and
concentrations of 1080 used against vertebrate pests. Individuals of most species of rodents would appear
to face a considerable risk if pest-poisoning campaigns are carried out within their range, but the crucial
factor governing the actual effect on populations will be how many individuals find and eat the baits.
Response by Waterfowl to Hunting Pressure: A Preliminary Study
Authors: Maher M
Published: June 2005

The movements of ducks to refuges in response to hunting pressure were investigated during the opening
of the 1981 duck season. Grey teal, Pacific black duck, hardhead and Australasian shoveler actively
sought refuge whilst pink-eared duck did not. Some implications for management are discussed.
Studies on the Yellow-Footed Rock-Wallaby, Petrogale xanthopus Gray (Marsupialia : Macropodidae) I. Distribution in South Australia
Authors: Copley PB
Published: June 2005

Petrogale xanthopus still occurs over most of its former range in South Australia. It is widespread
in the Flinders Ranges, where almost 200 colonies are now known, and is locally common in areas
of both the Rinders Ranges and Olary Hills. Six colonies are currently known in the western Gawler
Ranges with an outlying population on Carriewerloo Station only 50 km west of Port Augusta. Seven
colonies have been found in the Olary Hills, to the north and north-west of Olary. The species has
suffered a major decline in abundance since European settlement, having become extinct locally
throughout this range. Hunting for skins, competition with introduced herbivores for food and shelter,
and predation by foxes seem to be the main reasons for this decline. However, it is still not possible
to say whether the species currently has a decreasing population and is at risk, is in equilibrium, or
is increasing. Information published in this paper and current studies in South Australia and New
South Wales should soon determine this.
Studies on the Yellow-Footed Rock-Wallaby, Petrogale Xanthopus Gray (Marsupialia: Macropodidae). 2. Diet.
Authors: Copley PB , Robinson AC
Published: June 2005

Part 1 (ibid. pp 47-61), on distribution, was not abstracted. 2. Seasonal variation in diet of yellow-footed rock-wallaby (Petrogale xanthopus) was found from examination of faeces from wallabies trapped in the South Flinders Ranges, Australia, from June 1979 to February 1981. The 5 main groups of feed plants were: grasses; Chenopodiaceae; plants with stellate trichomes (Solanaceae, Malvaceae and Amaranthaceae); browse (any other perennial); forbs (mainly ephemeral herbs).
Parasites of the Agile Wallaby, Macropus Agilis (Marsupialia).
Authors: Speare R , Beveridge I , Johnson PMCLA
Published: June 2005

The parasites found at necropsy of 63 M. agilis from Queensland, Western Australia and the Northern Territory included 18 species of nematodes, 4 of cestodes, 2 of trematodes, 2 of ticks, a louse, a mite and 3 species of protozoa. The most prevalent (>50%) of the helminths were Cloacina spp. (primarily C. australis and C. cornuta) in the stomach, Progamotaenia proterogyna in the small intestine, Labiostrongylus labiostrongylus and Strongyloides sp. in the stomach, Gongylonema alecturae in the oesophagus and stomach, Hypodontus macropi in the caecum and colon and Macropostrongylus macropostrongylus in the stomach. Filarinema sp. and Strongyloides sp. (both undescribed) are new records for this host. Pathological changes were associated with gastric nematodes, P. festiva in the bile ducts, Gemellicotyle wallabicola (new record for Australia) in the stomach, Macropotrema pertinax in the caecum and Durikainema macropi in the portal veins.
The Crab Island Sea Turtle Rookery in the North-Eastern Gulf of Carpentaria
Authors: Limpus CJ , Parmenter CJ , Baker V , Fleay A
Published: June 2005

Crab I. in north Queensland supports a large all-year nesting population of Chelonia depressa and
occasional nesting by Eretmochelys imbricata and Lepidochelys olivacea. Measurements of nesting
turtles, eggs, nests, hatchlings are summarized. A preliminary model of C. depressa egg and hatchling
mortality gave values for the proportion of eggs producing hatchlings into the sea ranging from 48%
to 89% in different months. The nesting distribution of C. depressa is reviewed and Crab I. identified
as its most significant breeding beach.
Introduction of the Sugar Glider, Petaurus breviceps, into Re-established Forest of the Tower Hill State Game Reserve, Vic.
Authors: Suckling GC , Macfarlane MA
Published: June 2005

In 1979 a program of release of captive-bred sugar gliders, Petaurus breviceps Waterhouse, was initiated
in young, planted native forest at the Tower Hill State Game Reserve. The Reserve comprises three
islands (130, 48 and 1 ha) inaccessible to wild sugar gliders. In May 1981 the status of the Tower
Hill population was studied. At least 34 individuals were detected; these were generally confined to
taller forest where nest hollows had been erected. Various population parameters were compared with
those recorded by Suckling (1980) for wild sugar gliders at a similar latitude at Willung in South
Gippsland. Age structure, reproductive success and survival to 2 years of age were similar in both
populations; the Tower Hill animals appeared to be in better condition (as measured by body weight
within each age-class) than those at Willung. A population may now be established at Tower Hill.
The present data are relevant to the future management of sugar gliders at Tower Hill; they may also
be relevant to the management of regenerating forest areas, elsewhere in the State, for the conservation
of sugar gliders, and possibly for the conservation of some other, forest-dependent resident mammals.
A Short-Term Evaluation of Feral Pig Eradication at Willandra in Western New South Wales
Authors: Hone J
Published: June 2005

An evaluation was conducted of an attempted eradication of feral pigs by poisoning and shooting,
in an area of 50 km2 at Willandra in western New South Wales. Poisoning with 1080 killed 73% of
the feral pigs. After the poisoning, 95 of 98 feral pigs seen in the area were shot. The results and their
implications for the control and eradication of feral pigs are discussed.
Myxomatosis: a Search for a Strain of Virus to Immunize a Wild Population of Rabbits, Oryctolagus Cuniculus.
Authors: Sobey WR , Conolly D , Westwood N
Published: June 2005

FS98, a grade IV strain of myxoma virus, was found to be suitable as an immunising virus for wild rabbits in Australia and suitable for introduction as a biological control agent into a wild rabbit population with the flea Spilopsyllus cuniculi (Dale) as vector. The Nottingham attenuated strain was found not to be a suitable virus for immunising wild rabbits. Seven samples of virus taken from the field in Australia and assessed as grade V virulence in 1965 were more virulent when reassessed in 1976. Possible misclassification by chance was examined by means of randomly selected survival times from actual data and rejected as a complete explanation. Testing with a wide range of different mixtures of a cloned highly virulent and a cloned attenuated strain of virus failed to support, but did not exclude, the idea of changes in virulence grading being caused by differential survival in mixtures during storage. ADDITIONAL ABSTRACT: Strain FS98 of myxoma virus, isolated in Australia in 1967, was suitable for immunizing wild Australian rabbits by means of infected fleas, but the Nottingham attenuated strain was unsuitable. Strain FS98 was of grade IV virulence in the scale of Fenner & Marshall (1957). Changes in virulence during prolonged storage were discussed.
The Influence of Ambient Temperatures on the Susceptibility of Mice, Guinea-Pigs and Possums to Compund 1080
Authors: Oliver AJ , King DR
Published: June 2005

The susceptibilities of mice Mus musculus, guinea-pigs Cavia porcellus and brushtail possums
Trichosurus vulpecula to sodium monofluoroacetate (compound 1080) were determined at various
ambient temperatures in the range 4-33�C. Toxicity was greater at both ends of the range than in
the middle. In mice the LD50 at 24�C was five times that at 12.2�C; in guinea-pigs the LD50 at 17�C
was twice that at 4�C; in possums the LD50 at 23.5�C was two and a half times that at 10.5�C. It
is important to consider these differences when assessing the efficacy of 1080 for pest control, and
potential hazards to non-target species, in situations where such temperature ranges may be commonly
expected.
Waterbird Dynamics in the RIchmond VAlley, New SOuth Wales, 1974-77
Authors: Gosper DG , Briggs SV , Carpenter SM
Published: June 2005

'Monthly waterbird counts from February 1974 to June 1977 at six wetlands in the Richmond River valley in northern coastal New South Wales were analysed to investigate relationships between numbers of each species, and season and water variables. Black swan, Pacific black duck, purple swamphen, dusky moorhen, cattle egret, comb-crested jacana and sharp-tailed sandpiper were strongly influenced by season. Grey teal, straw-necked ibis, little black cormorant, Pacific heron and black-winged stilt numbers were related to Murray River discharge, an index of inland wetland availability in New South Wales, northern Victoria and parts of southern Queensland. Numbers of most waterbirds were highest on the coast from late summer to the end of winter. Their seasonal abundance patterns conform with the results of some previous studies but differ somewhat from others.
Mortality and Dispersal of Juvenile Galahs, Cacatua roseicapilla, in the Western Australian Wheatbelt
Authors: Rowley I
Published: June 2005

'From 265 tag or band returns (11% of the birds marked) shooting accounts for most galah deaths in the Western Australian wheatbelt, with cats, raptors and motor vehicles as other major mortality factors; a quarter of the young birds that leave the nest may die before they are deserted by their parents after 6 weeks. Newly independent galahs tend to disperse down-wind to the north-west from then on during the dry summer and autumn (January-April). In late autumn and winter dispersal becomes roughly random and the distance travelled increases. Of galahs marked as juveniles and later found dead, 80% had travelled less than 20 km, whilst one third had remained within 5 km of where they were hatched or netted. Juvenile dispersal appears to end in the second autumn of life, when individuals tend to join flocks of non-breeding birds that are only locally nomadic. It is from these local flocks that replacements to the resident breeding pool of adult birds come.
Status and Conservation of the Forty-Spotted Pardalote, Pardalotus quadragintus
Authors: Rounsevell DE , Woinarski JCZ
Published: June 2005

A survey of the status of the forty-spotted pardalote, Pardalotus quadragintus, yielded an estimated
total of 850 birds in eight known populations on peninsulas and islands along the coast of southeastern
Tasmania. The sizes of these populations range from a few to 500 individuals. The largest
populations are on offshore islands of approximately 10000 ha, or more, and the smallest consist of
a loose collection of groups or isolated breeding pairs on coastal peninsulas. Threats to the survival
of the populations are described and present or planned measures for their protection given.
Comparative Ecology of Pardalotes, including the Forty-Spotted Pardalote, Pardalotus quadragintus (Aves : Pardalotidae) in SOuth-Eastern TAsmania
Authors: Woinarski JCZ , Rounsevell DE
Published: June 2005

Three species of pardalote co-occur only in eastern Tasmania. We examined habitat selection and
foraging ecology of the three species, Pardalotus punctatus, P. quadragintus and P. striatus, in that
area. Overlap and similarity between all three species was high in both foraging activity and habitat
choice. All three species are specialized leaf-gleaners and favoured Eucalyptus virninalis forests. The
distributions of the species were related to Eucalyptus species diversity, species of Eucal.vptus dominant,
disturbance, and number of hollows and overmature trees at sites. It is suggested that there is substantial
interaction between P. quadragintus and P. striatus and that this may affect the distribution and
abundance of the restricted and declining P. quadragintus.
Crocodylus johnstoni in the McKinlay River Area N. T, II.* Dry-Season Habitat Slection and an Estimate of the Total Population Size
Authors: Webb GJW , Manolis SC , Buckworth R
Published: June 2005

In July 1979, midway through the dry season, most C, johnstoni were congregated in pools greater
than 1m deep and 900 m2 in area. Use of some, but not all of these large, deep pools is not dependent
on whether the pools are in the mainstream or not, nor on the clarity (an indicator of siltation) of
the water in them. Food availability and access to nesting banks may be related to selection of
individual pools, although the former is considered unlikely. The homing ability of C. johnstoni would
seem a decided advantage for relocating specific refuge sites, which tend to be used each year by the
same individuals. The C. johnstoni population in the McKinlay River study area is estimated at 963
individuals (826- 1156).
Crocodylus johnstoni in the McKinlay River Area N. T, IV.* A Demonstration of Homing
Authors: Webb GJW , Manolis SC , Buckworth R
Published: June 2005

Of 17 wild male and female C, johnstoni which were released at a site 30 km upstream of their capture
site, eight were caught again, seven at the site of capture and one between the two sites; they
demonstrated a distinct homing ability.
Crocodylus johnstoni in the McKinlay River Area N. T, V.* Abnormalities and Injuries
Authors: Webb GJW , Manolis SC , Buckworth R
Published: June 2005

Abnormalities and injuries in a sample of 797 C. johnstoni are described. 56.3% of animals were
scarred or freshly injured, and 81.1% of injured animals had the tail injured. Rake and bite marks
were the most common injury, and these apparently result from intraspecific interactions, perhaps
including a specific 'tail-biting' behaviour. Interspecific comparisons indicate the frequencies of injuries
are greatest in species which congregate in high densities, namely C. johnstoni and Caiman c. crocodilus.
Nematode worm trails were rarely encountered on C. johnstoni under 31 cm snout-vent length (SVL)
but were on 100% of animals over 80 cm SVL. Leeches were on 59% of animals caught in one area
during the wet season, but only 2.6% of those caught further upstream in the dry season. The SVLs
at which mandibular teeth protrude through the premaxilla are quantified and the significance of
tooth protrusion discussed.
The Distribution and Abundance of Kangaroos in relation to Environment in Western Australia
Authors: Short J , Caughley G , Grice D , Brown B
Published: June 2005

Red and western grey kangaroos were surveyed from the air in Western Australia during the winter of
1981. The area covered, 1 528 000 km2 or 61% of the State, excluded only the Kimberleys in the north
and the Gibson and Great Sandy Deserts of the interior. Hence almost all kangaroo range within the
State was surveyed, to provide an estimate of 980 000 reds and 436 000 greys. Densities were much
lower than those of the eastern States. Red kangaroos were most abundant in mulga shrubland,
chenopod shrubland and tussock grassland, and least abundant in hummock grassland. Densities were
associated strongly with land-use categories, being high in areas used for extensive sheep grazing and low
in vacant Crown Land and arable land. In contrast to reds the western grey kangaroos were confined to
the south and west of the state, their distribution being related more directly to climate than to
vegetation or land use. They live in the winter rainfall zone. We suggest that their restricted breeding
season results in peak nutritional demands associated with lactation, and hence energy requirements,
being synchronized with the spring flush of pasture following winter rains. Approximately 14% of the
red kangaroo and 8% of the western grey kangaroo populations in Western Australia were harvested
legally in 1981.
Breeding in the Grey Kangaroo, MAcropus giganteus, from Widespread Locations in Eastern Australia
Authors: Poole WE
Published: June 2005

Small samples of eastern grey kangaroos drawn from a number of locations throughout their known
distribution, and over a period of years, provided information on their breeding biology, which
complemented earlier reports from restricted study areas. Irrespective of locality, young appeared to be
born in all months of the year with the majority of births in the summer months, though subject to
modification by seasonal conditions. Comparison of reproductive strategies adopted by red and grey
kangaroos at one site under identical conditions of less than average rainfall supported an earlier
theoretical proposition that the two species were subject to 'r' and 'K' selection respectively. Both male
and female grey kangaroos became sexually mature from age 20 to 36 months. Quiescent blastocysts in
some females suckling advanced pouch young were noted in most populations. Although apparently
associated with favourable nutritional conditions, the stimuli which induce an oestrus resulting in the
carrying of a quiescent blastocyst are not yet understood.
Observations on Body Weights and Breeding of the Northern Brown Bandicoot, Isoodon macrourus, Trapped in South-East Queensland
Authors: Hall LS
Published: June 2005

Information on body weight, measurements and breeding is recorded for 96 female and 42 male Isoodon
macrourus, trapped in the vicinity of Brisbane. Data are also given on sex ratio, nipple attachment site
and mortality for 128 pouch young from 44 litters. I. macrourus is the heaviest peramelid, with a mean
body weight of 1046 ( � 263)g for females and 1496 ( � 359)g for males. Seasonal effects on body weight
are evident in females but absent in males. Females with pouch young were significantly heavier than
those without young for most months of the year. Unlike most other peramelids, I. macrourus has no
defined breeding season in south-eastern Queensland. Females produce litters in all months of the year,
with a peak in August and a low in June. Litter size averaged 2.9, which is the lowest recorded for the
species. Female body weight had a positive linear relationship with litter size (y= 0.001297x + 1.444).
Sex ratio of adults was 1:1, but that of pouch young favoured males 1:0.8. Of the eight pouch teats
available, young favoured the four anterior nipples (72 v.56) and males outnumbered females on the
left-side nipples. Survival rate of pouch young, as indicated by litter size from 0 to 50 days, showed no
variation but there appears to be a high mortality for young after they leave the pouch and before they
reach a body weight of 500 g.
A Radiotracking Study of Four Poisoning Techniques for Control of the European Rabbit, Oryctolagus cuniculus (L.)
Authors: Robinson MH , Wheeler SH
Published: June 2005

Telemetry was used to determine the patterns of mortality of rabbits, Oryctolagus cuniculus (L.), day by
day following laying of poisoned bait in the field. Four poisoning methods were studied: 'conventional'
1080 (sodium monofluoroacetate) in oat bait, 'conventional' 1080 in carrot bait, pindone
(2-pivalyl-1,3-indandione) in oat bait, and 'one-shot' 1080 in oat bait. Three strengths of one-shot 1080
(0.25%, 1%, and 4%) were compared. The relative merits of the various poisoning techniques are
discussed.
Mortality of MAned Duck and Grey Teal during the 1982 Open Season at Barrenbox Swamp, N.S.W
Authors: Briggs SV , Brown BK , Maher MT , Brickhill JG , Kingsford RT
Published: June 2005

Mortality of maned duck and grey teal due to hunting at Barrenbox Swamp in New South Wales in 1982
was estimated from band returns. Birds were marked a short while before the open season commenced.
The mortality rates were 33.0% in maned duck and 10.9% in grey teal on opening morning, and 41.0%
and 14.3% for the season. The validity of the estimates is discussed. Barrenbox Swamp is a popular
hunting site and a permanent wetland. Hunting mortality at the level recorded for maned duck in this
study could be detrimental to waterfowl during droughts, when populations concentrate on such
permanent waters.
The Biology of the Gecko Oedura reticulata Bustard, in a Smal Habitat Isolate in the Western Australian Wheatbelt
Authors: How RA , Kitchner DJ
Published: June 2005

The arboreal gecko Oedura reticulata was studied in an isolated 1-ha eucalypt woodland in the Western
Australian wheatbelt. Females reach maturity in their 4th year and lay two eggs between October and
January. Males reach maturity in their 3rd year, their testes are largest between July and October. Young
hatch in mid to late summer but immature individuals are infrequently captured during their first 18
months. Individuals live more than 6 years. Population size ranged between 91 and 119 individuals.
Individuals were placed into eight definable groups. There was a slight excess of males in each cohort.
Activity, which is greatest in summer and least in winter, is closely correlated with ambient temperature.
Body temperatures become noticeably higher than ambient temperatures between 23�C and 16�C; below
16�C activity is greatly reduced. The higher numbers of O.reticulata occur on mature smooth-barked
eucalypt trees that have both large areas of foliage and dead wood. Only immature individuals
frequently occupy rough-barked eucalypts. Their life-history strategy is considered in respect of small,
isolated and disturbed remnants of native vegetation.
The Flatback Turtle, Chelonia depressa, in Queensland: Post-Nesting Migration and Feeling Ground Distribution
Authors: Limpus CJ , Parmenter CJ , Baker V , Fleay A
Published: June 2005

Between 1968 and 1981, a total of 813 adult female flatback turtles were tagged while nesting on
Queensland beaches. Eight have been recovered at a distance, 216-1300 km north of their respective
nesting beaches, in waters between the mainland and the Great Barrier Reef. The species' principal
feeding grounds seem to be in turbid, shallow inshore water off north-eastern Australia and in the Gulf
of Carpentaria; there are no records beyond the continental shelf.
An Interim Method for Estimating the Age of Crocodylus porosus
Authors: Webb GJW , Manolis SC , Buckworth R , Sack GC
Published: June 2005

On the basis of a reference series incubated at 30�C, methods for assigning unknown-aged embryos an
approximate '30�C age' are derived. Determining real age is confounded by a paucity of information on
the nest environment and its influence on embryonic development rate. Preliminary constants relating
development rate to temperature (derived from studies with C. johnstoni) were tested with C. porosus
and, as an interim measure, have practical utility in both the laboratory and the field.
Crocodylus johnstoni and C. porosus Coexisting in a Tidal River
Authors: Webb GJW , Manolis SC , .Sack GC
Published: June 2005

A 52.5-km section of the Adelaide River, N.T. (12�13'S., 131�13'E.). was spotlight-surveyed 20 times
between June 1979 and September 1981. C, johnstoni (15.3 � 9.2 sighted per survey) were less
abundant than C. porosus (137.6 � 36.5 sighted per survey), and were mainly in the upstream 20 km of
the survey route (96% of C. johnstoni sightings); here considered a zone of syntopy within the survey
route. C. johnstoni congregate in the main stream during the dry season and disperse from it during the
wet season, which parallels similar seasonal movements to and from dry-season refuges in non-tidal
areas lacking C. porosus. As the dry season progresses, C. johnstoni are located further and further
upstream, and this movement (or loss ofanimals) appears unrelated to changes in salinity. Numbers of
C.johnstoni within the zone of syntopy are negatively correlated with numbers of C. porosus (r*2 = 0.50,
P=0.005). and competitive exclusion may be occurring. Independent of seasonal factors, numbers of
C. johnstoni within the zone of syntopy declined with consecutive month (1979-81: r*2=0.47,
P= O.004), whereas numbers ofthe more recently protected C, porosus increased (r2 = 0.48, P= 0,006).
The location of the syntopic zone was unchanged.
The Grey Kangaroo Overlap Zone
Authors: Caughley G , Brown B , Dostine P , Grice D
Published: June 2005

The distributions of the two species of grey kangaroo, Macropus giganteus of eastern Australia and
M.fuliginosus of southern Australia. overlap in a zone of 0.68 X 10*6 km2 in south-eastern Australia,
the zone including parts of South Australia. Victoria, New South Wales and Queensland. The species'
boundaries determining the overlap zone are mapped and the geographic trends in density within it are
determined for each of the two species. Whereas the western boundary of M. giganteus has moved
inland this century, possibly as a response to an increased number ofwatering points, there is no strong
indication that M. fuliginosus has extended its range significantly. The recent discovery of the latter
species in Queensland over an area of 100 000 km2, reported here for the first time, need reflect nothing
more than the difficulty of differentiating the two species in the field.
Growth of Grey Kangaroos and the Reliablility of Age Determination from Body Measurements III. Interspecific Comparisions between Eastern and Western Grey Kangaroos, Macropus giganteus and M. fuliginosus
Authors: Poole WE , Carpenter SM , Wood JT
Published: June 2005

Seven body measurements were taken at regular intervals throughout life from both male and female
eastern and western grey kangaroos. Evaluation of the reliability of criteria for determination of age and
some aspects of the growth models for the two species were presented in earlier papers in this series. In
this paper the common patterns and relationships between species in the growth characteristics of their
body parameters are described and analysed. Comparison is made between species and sexes of rates of
growth and size attained both within the pouch and following vacation of the pouch. Head, arm, leg and
foot length were important discriminators, particularly when contrasted in various ways to summarize
different body proportions. The insular form M.f. fuliginosus readily separated from the mainland
forms, and M.f. ocydromus showed some differences which were related to its longer pouch life. Hybrid
animals showed growth patterns intermediate to those of their parents. Sexual dimorphism in patterns
ofgrowth was not detected during pouch life but was exhibited by all species after the young vacated the
pouch and grew towards their full adult size.
Daytime Locations of European Rabbits at Three Localities in South -Western Australia
Authors: King DR , Wheeler SH , Robinson MH
Published: June 2005

Radio-telemetry was used to determine the use by rabbits, Oryctolagus cuniculus, of different types of
daytime locations at three localities in south-western Australia. The frequency of use of different types
of daytime locations was clearly associated with the structure of the native vegetation. Where the understorey
was dense, use of resting locations in the scrub was high. Where the understorey was sparse,
rabbits sheltered principally in warrens in cleared areas. When rabbits shelter predominantly in large
patches of native scrub, warren ripping and fumigation may be of very limited value as control
techniques.
Estimation of the Density of Feral Goats in Part of Arid South Australia by means of the Peterson Estimate
Authors: Henzell RP , McCloud PI
Published: June 2005

The density of feral goats in about 234 km2 of arid rangeland used for sheep grazing in South Australia
was estimated by means of a mark-resight technique. Marking and subsequent resighting were done at
watering points. The Petersen estimate was 4.4 goats per square kilometre; adjustment to allow for nonrandom
behaviour raised this estimate to 5.0 km-1. Maximum allowable sheep density is 12 km-2.
The goat density we observed imposes an added burden on the vegetation. The densities of red and
western grey kangaroos, when added together, approximate that of the goats. Rabbits are virtually
absent. The long-term effects of the total grazing pressure on the vegetation cannot be predicted in detail
but will probably be deleterious.
Terrestrial Egg Deposition and Direct Development in Arenophyrne rotunda Tyler, a Myobatrachid Frog from Coastal Sand Dunes at Shark Bay, W. A
Authors: Roberts JD
Published: June 2005

A. rotunda occurs on the periphery of the arid zone from Shark Bay to Kalbarri, W.A. In August and
November, males call on the sand surface after rain, and also call underground. The male call is triphasic,
showing similarities to calls of some Pseudophryne species. Pairs form by late spring and spend
at least 5 months together underground over the summer. Eggs mature during summer but are not
deposited until April, in mid-autumn. Eggs were found at a depth of 80 cm in moist sand. Development
occurs entirely within the egg capsule. This breeding system is very similar to that of Myobatrachus
gouldii, confirming earlier suggestions of a close relationship of these two genera.
Movements and Home Ranges of Three Sympatric Dasyruids, Sminthopsis crassicaudata, Planigale gilesi and P. tenuirostris (Marsupialaia), in Semiarid Western New South Wales
Authors: Read DG
Published: June 2005

A mark and recapture study was conducted over 2 years in a trapping site ofapproximately 50 ha. Ofthe
692 individuals captured, 30% were recaptured; in all trapping periods, a high proportion of animals
caught had not been captured previously. The three species showed considerable mobility throughout
the year, but during June Planigale spp. were more sedentary. Mobility is implicated in the changes in
local abundance of these insectivores. Some individuals had movements in excess of 400 m day-l;
average rates of displacement were 620 m in 100 days for Sminthopsis crassicaudata and 400 m in
100 days for Planigale gilesi. Home ranges ofall species were described as unstable and continually shifting.
It is suggested that mobility is an important factor in niche separation between these sympatric
species.
Observations on a Captive Outdoor Breeding Colony of a Small Dasyurid Marsupial, Sminthopsis Crassicaudata.
Authors: Woolley PA , Watson MR
Published: June 2005

In a pilot study, wild and laboratory-reared Sminthopsis crassicaudata were kept for 6 months in separate large seminatural outdoor cages in Victoria, Australia. They were fed on 10 g of minced-beef preparation with insects such as mealworms or crickets at 1 g daily and dried pelleted petfood (Go-Cat) freely. Not all animals survived, and the young did not live to weaning. Animals were caught 3 times a weeks to be weighed and measured, and failure to rear the young was attributed to excessive handling and disturbance. Otherwise, both stocks could have survived and lived under those conditions, which were more convenient than cage-rearing of Sminthopsis spp. as experimental animals.
Radiotracking the Numbat, Myrmecobius fasciatus, in the Perup Forest of Western Australia
Authors: Christensen P , Maisey K , Perry DH
Published: June 2005

A population of numbats, Myrmecobius fasciatus, exists in the jarrah forest in the Perup Management
Priority Area, east of Manjimup, W.A. Radiotracking of four individuals suggests large home ranges; the
animal which was radiotracked the longest traversed more than 100 ha. Numbats radiotracked in
different seasons displayed different activity and feeding patterns. Termite activity, as determined by
weather conditions, may be the main factor influencing numbat activity. The termite species eaten by
the numbats are those most common in the forest. The location of areas of concentrated activity within
the home range shifted from time to time; the numbats' specialized feeding behaviour may explain this.
Numerous hollow logs are used for overnight or daytime shelter. Burrows were used in cold weather.
Nests made from finely shredded bark material were found in both logs and burrows. Forest
management practices may be modified and used to maintain an area of habitat suitable for the
numbat.
Radio-Telemetry Transmitters for Use in Studies of the Thermoregulation of Unrestrained Common Wombats, Vombatus ursinus
Authors: Brown GD , Taylor LS
Published: June 2005

The designs of radio-telemetry transmitters used in a study of thermoregulation in the common
wombat, Vombatus ursinus, are described. A single-channel implantable transmitter, weighing 25 g and
with a range of 100 m, was designed to monitor deep body temperature. Two versions are described of
an externally mounted transmitter used to monitor heart rate and physical activity. In the first, each
heartbeat was transmitted as a single radio-frequency pulse of short duration; this technique conserved
power but was found to be unreliable for monitoring very low heart rates. In the second version, the
electrocardiogram waveform was transmitted as a frequency-modulated signal. The multichannel
transmitters weighed 300 g with batteries, and had a range of up to 400 m. A transducer consisting of a
multiposition mercury switch was used to monitor activity. Changes in orientation of the transducer
were transmitted as different audio-frequency tones.
Ground Surface Features Attributable to Feral Buffalo, Bubalus bubalis I. Their Distribution relative to Vegetation Structure and Plant Lifeform
Authors: Taylor JA , Friend GR
Published: June 2005

Relationships among ground surface features attributable to feral buffalo (viz. wallows, trails, pug marks
and dung pats), vegetation structure, and lifeform spectrum were examined in both dry and wet seasons
in a tropical monsoonal area of northern Australia. In the dry season, the frequency of pug marks was
negatively correlated with the number of trails and dung pats, and positively correlated with the number
of wallows. In the wet season only dung pats and wallows were significantly correlated. In the dry season,
wallows were not associated with any vegetation structure or lifeform attribute, but in the wet season
they were associated with dense foliage <1 m high. Trails occurred in areas of low dense vegetation
(<0.5 m) in the dry season, but in the wet were uncommon and positively associated with lianas. Pug
marks occurred mainly in the lower-elevation, treeless areas dominated by forbs. Whereas the nature
and strength of the relationships of pug marks to plant lifeform or vegetation structure remained
constant from season to season, those involving dung pats changed seasonally. In the dry season, dung
pats were associated with the higher-elevation areas where trees, lianas, dense mid-level foliage
(1.5-2.5 m) and leaf-litter were common. In the wet, they were associated with low vegetation (<1 m)
dominated by forbs, and were negatively correlated with the factors important in the dry.
Foraging Ecology of Birds in an Upland Tropical Rainforest in North Queensland.
Authors: Frith DW
Published: June 2005

Vertical distribution of herbivores, mixed feeders and insectivores in an upland tropical rainforest
reflected variation of foods present in different strata. Arboreal insectivores utilized the widest range of
strata because of a wider distribution of arthropod foods. Differential utilization of vertical strata was
the most important factor to bring about niche differentiation, not only between the three feeding
categories but between species within each of the categories. Species whose vertical ranges were similar
were segregated by differential utilization of foraging sites, by foraging behaviours and/or by food
resources. Seasonal migration, variation in diet and shifts in vertical foraging levels, and/or diurnal
variation of foraging times, resulted in a finer partitioning of resources between those species whose
niches greatly overlapped.
The Diets of Three Species of Parrots in the South of Western Australia.
Authors: Long JL
Published: June 2005

The 3 species of parrot studied during 2 years in south Western Australia fed mainly on the seeds of introduced pasture plants, weeds and trees. All ate insects, particularly in the breeding season. Red-capped parrots (Purpureicephalus spurius) ate some apple seeds and fruit and Port Lincoln parrots (Barnardius zonarius) picked up oats and wheat from among stubble and around sheds. Both species were seen to take nectar. The 3rd species was the western rosella (Platycercus icterotis).
Trends in Kangaroo Numbers in Western New South Wales and their relation to Rainfall
Authors: Caughley J , Bayliss P , Giles J
Published: June 2005

Annual aerial counts of kangaroos within randomly selected blocks of the western plains of New South
Wales showed that the numbers of kangaroos doubled between 1975-76 and 1982, and that the
widespread drought of 1982 reduced the populations on average by 43%. Localized reductions of similar
magnitude occurred after regional droughts in 1977 and 1980 within parts of the monitored area. The
observed trends in kangaroo numbers, with eastern and western blocks treated separately, were
correlated with annual rainfall with a time lag of 6 months in the response. The relationships show that
kangaroos reach their maximum rate of increase following rainfall 100 mm above the annual average in
the east and approximately 50 mm above the annual average in the west. At average annual rainfall
kangaroos increase at 25% (greys) and 35% (reds) per annum in the east and at 25% (greys) and 30% (reds)
per annum in the west. Rate of increase is zero when rainfall is 100 mm below average in the east and
approximately 60 mm below average in the west. When rainfall is below these values, kangaroo
numbers decline.
Effect of Drought on the Health of Wild Hairy-Nosed Wombats, Lasiorhinus latifrons
Authors: Gaughwin MD , Judson GJ , Macfarlane WV , Siebert BD
Published: June 2005

The health and nutritional status of a population of the hairy-nosed wombat Lasiorhinus latifrons
inhabiting the Blanche Town region of South Australia was assessed over a period of 18 months, 12 of
which were during a drought. Measurements were made of body morphology, haematological and
biochemical constituents and vitamin and trace element status of animals in the field: these were
examined in relation to the chemical composition of stomach contents and of faeces. During the study
period, changes in body weight, body condition and selected haematological and chemical constituents
were closely associated with changes in the quantity and quality of food, as measured by faecal nitrogen
and organic matter and by a plant growth index. It appears that wombats in the Blanche Town region
survived a drought of 12 months duration with minimal loss of body tissues and maintained
physiological functions.
The Food of Fox, Dog and Cat in Croajingalong National Park, South-Eastern Victoria.
Authors: Triggs B , Brunner H , Cullen JM
Published: June 2005

The diet of foxes, dogs and cats living in Croajingalong National Park in extreme south-easten Victoria
was studied during 1979 and 1980. From 1397 scats collected over 20 months, remains of 22 indigenous
and 7 introduced mammal species were identified. Remains of ringtail possums Pseudocheirus
peregrinus predominated in the scats from all three predators (fox 58%, cat 56% and dog 38%). Other
main prey species for the fox and cat were Antechinus spp.(24% and 15% respectively) and Rattus spp.
(15% and 19%) and for the dog two species of wallabies, Macropus rufogriseus and Wallabia bicolor
(34%), wombat Vombatus ursinus (11%), Antechinus spp.(l5%) and Rattus spp.(10%). Nonmammalian
items for the three predators were birds, reptiles, fish, insects, crustaceans, molluscs and
plant material.
The Acceptance of Dyed Grain by Feral Pigs and Birds I. Birds
Authors: Bryant H , Hone J , Nicholls P
Published: June 2005

There is a risk that birds may be poisoned during feral pig poisoning programs. Experiments in a field
plot adjoining an urban area were conducted to assess the acceptance of dyed wheat, maize and sorghum
by free-ranging birds. All colouring agents depressed the acceptance of grain by birds. This suggests that
dyeing feral pig baits should reduce the hazard of bird poisonings. Observations of birds on feed trays
were of limited value in predicting intake.