bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Security Eating, and Diet in the Large Rock-Rat, Zyzomys Woodwardi (Rodentia:Muridae).
Authors: Begg RJ , Dunlop CR
Published: June 2005

The diet of Zyzomys woodwardi was studied by the identification of seeds eaten and accumulated in crevices at Nangaloar Caves, Northern Territory. Seeds of 11 species of plants of nutritional significance were identified; the most frequent were Canarium australianum, Terminalia carpentariae and Buchanania obovata. It was concluded that the accumulations of seeds did not represent caches or food hoarding but were the results of seeds being carried by rats to secure positions which provided protection from predators while the hard seed coats were gnawed through.
The Occurrence of the New Nolland Mouse, Pseudomys novaehollandiae (Waterhouse), in Tasmania
Authors: Hocking GJ
Published: June 2005

Pseudomys nocaehollandiae is recorded for the first time from Tasmania, where it is found to occur in heath and woodland along the north-east coast. The morphological and reproductive status of the specimens collected and their habitat are essentially the same as previously recorded on continental
Australia.

The close relationship between the distribution of this species and the occurrence of a particular fire regime is stressed.
The Social Organisation of the Dusky Moorhen, Gallinula tenebrosa Gould (Aves : Rallidae)
Authors: Garnett ST
Published: June 2005

A population of dusky moorhens was studied between October 1974 and December 1976. Moorhens were present in the study area throughout the year, existing predominantly in free-ranging flocks in May and June and tending to form territorial groups of from two to seven birds from July to April. In a group there were from one to three males per female; all males copulated with all females.

Groups formed in July were predominantly of experienced adults and did not cease territoriality until April; those formed later, in September, were predominantly of immatures and tended to cease territoriality in March. The former had larger territories with more reeds, less sexual behaviour although more frequent successful coition, and a higher productivity than the latter.
Productivity did not increase with group size although those with more than four birds lost twice as many eggs as smaller groups. It is unlikely that members of a group are related. The most frequent group size was four and it is postulated that groups of this size produce the most young. The skewed ratio in groups may result from the scarcity of nest sites, which limits the number of females per group.
The Use of Simple Measurements to Determine the Age of Silver Gull Eggs
Authors: Wooller RD , Dunlop JN
Published: June 2005

The fresh weight of silver gull eggs is closely related to the volume, which is calculable from the length and breadth. Since eggs lose weight at a constant rate during incubation, the density (weight/volume) indicates the duration of incubation. Accuracy of the method was k 2 days in 217 of 250 tests. A curve of age against density is provided.
Breeding of the Stubble Quail, Coturnix pectoralis, in South-Eastern Australia
Authors: Frith HJ , Carpenter SM
Published: June 2005

The gonad cycle, breeding season, proportion of the population in primary moult and the relative amount of body fat were examined through the year in stubble quail at eight localities covering seven degrees of latitude and including several types of habitat and climate.
There were significant effects of annual cycles and rainfall on each character at each location. In gonad size the seasonal cycle accounted for 39-71% of the variability in males and 21-41% in females according to locality.

Effects of rainfall accounted for 5-18 % of the variability in males and 5-19% in females. There was a suggestion of a latitudinal trend in the date of the beginning of the annual gonad cycle.

Breeding at all localities was in spring and early summer with a very frequent second peak of gonad size and breeding in late summer and autumn. The timing, the relative values of the spring and summer peaks and the success of the breeding varied from place to place and from year to year in the one locality. In some years breeding was continuous virtually throughout the year. Although in some regions the hunting season is appropriately timed, considering the biology of the birds, in others it is not as it overlaps the breeding season. There is a case for standardization in the south-eastern States to May-July.
Organochlorine Residues in Wings of Ducks in South-Eastern Australia.
Authors: Olsen P , Settle H , Swift R
Published: June 2005

In March 1977 one wing was collected from each duck of 12 species from 10 sites in south east Australia. Feathers were removed and the wing was ground for estimation of organochlorine residues. In 1978 there were 25 whole male Pacific black ducks (Anas superciliosa) analysed. Total DDT ranged from 0.03 to 316.1/106 wet weight between individual Pacific black duck wings and from 0.02 to 15.10/106 in pooled samples of wings for each species. There were significant positive relations between total DDT residue in wing and those in liver, brain, breast muscle and fat of individual Pacific black ducks. Residues may be important in breeding of ducks and because the ducks are shot and eaten by man.
Spatial and Temporal Use of Habitat by the Red-necked Pademelon, Thylogale thetis (Marsupialia : Macropodidae)
Authors: Johnson KA
Published: June 2005

Use of habitat by 10 red-necked pademelons was studied by radio-tracking in an area of rain forest
that adjoined pasture. They consistently moved at nightfall to pasture, where they grazed until their
return to the rain forest shortly before daybreak. The time of movement between habitats was highly
predictable and varied seasonally with changes in daylength. Nocturnal and diurnal range areas are
described within the total area occupied by each individual. They rarely moved from the forest edge
more than 70 m onto pasture or 500 m into rain forest. Animals were not nocturnal and travelled
widely through the rain forest by day, seeking food and sites for basking. The nocturnal and diurnal
partitioning of habitat is seen as a strategy for exploiting the rich food resource of pasture while
maximizing the probability of avoiding predators.
Behaviour of the Koala, Phascolarctos cinereus (Goldfuss), in Captivity VI*. Aggression
Authors: Smith M
Published: June 2005

'In a colony of captive koalas, all aggressive behaviour was a variation on the single motor pattern of throwing a foreleg around an opponent and biting. Squabbles (the most common aggressive behaviour) were brief, low level interactions usually arising from the efforts of one koala to climb past or over another. Minor fghts involved only single bites and the combatants stayed in the same place; major ,fights involved multiple bites and changes of position. Dependent young were seldom involved in aggression. Between males. minor fights were essentially intensified squabbles, but major fights involved wrestling and chasing; they were more likely between males unfamiliar with each other, or those already aroused by, e.g., other aggressive interactions. Females became aggressive especially during pregnancy and at the end of lactation. At such times they stood their ground and vocalized at other koalas, especially males, but attacked only if the opponent came within reach. Although the opponent usually withdrew. sometimes a male seemed provoked to attack. Males sometimes attacked females without obvious provocation. Aggression was slightly more common in than outside the breeding season. Competition for females or food, dominance hierarchies, appeasement, and the defence of young were not seen.
The Ecology of Rattus lutreolus III*. The Rise and Fall of a Commensal Population
Authors: Braithwaite RW
Published: June 2005

A free-living population of R. lutreolus living in and around the zoo enclosures of the Sir Colin
MacKenzie Fauna Park at Healesville was studied for 27 months by use of mark-recapture trapping
techniques. The demography of this population is compared with that of a natural heathland population.

The breeding season was 2-3 months longer, growth of juveniles was more rapid, sexual maturity
earlier, minimum survival shorter, body size larger, and habitat use less restricted in the commensal population. The evolution of the population and its decline are discussed.
Reproductive Success and Nest Predation in the Superb Lyrebird, Menura superba
Authors: Lill a
Published: June 2005

Breeding success and nest predation were analysed in two superb lyrebird populations studied over six years. Egg success was estimated at 11-20%, giving an annual recruitment rate of 0.1-0.2 fledglings
per breeding female.

Predation accounted for at least 79% of nesting mortality and the risk was greater during the nestling phase. Preferred nest sites were 0.6-1.8 m above ground level on earth banks and in trees but were most susceptible to predation. Circumstantial evidence implicated native birds and introduced mammals as the principal nest predators.

The generality and evolutionary implications of these findings are discussed.
Distribution of Feeding Activity of the Eastern Grey Kangaroo, Macropus Giganteus, in Coastal Lowland of South-East Queensland.
Authors: Taylor RJ
Published: June 2005

In an area of coastal lowland managed by the Forestry Department of Queensland, habitats differed in the density, height and species composition of their undergrowth. In natural habitats Themeda australis made up the bulk of the diet of M. giganteus, but in firebreaks a range of grasses was eaten. Kangaroos actively fed only in habitats with open undergrowth, and in these habitats the density of faecal pellets correlated with the abundance of food present. Dense undergrowth restricted use of habitat even for movement. The abundance of food and the height and density of the undergrowth in contiguous habitat influenced the abundance of sightings on firebreaks. Firebreaks create a new source of abundant food. Prescribed burning attracts kangaroos to habitats by opening up dense undergrowth and encouraging the growth of grass.
Field Observations on Group Compositions in the Agile Wallaby, Macropus agilis (Gould) (Marsupialia : Macropodidae)
Authors: Johnson PM
Published: June 2005

Group compositions of agile wallabies were recorded during field studies in north Queensland. Single individuals were the most commonly observed 'group', which suggests an essentially solitary nature.

Groups of more than four were feeding groups, seen mainly when food was in short supply. The relationship between a female and its young was of short duration, and the sexual association between male and female was transient.
Density of Wallabia Bicolor (Desmarest) (Marsupialia: Macropodidae) in Eucalypt Plantations of Different Ages.
Authors: Floyd RB
Published: June 2005

Population densities were determined by counting faecal pellets of W. bicolor in wet sclerophyll forest and Eucalyptus grandis plantations, 1, 2 and 10 yr old, in New South Wales. Numbers were uniformly low in the 1-yr-old plantation and uniformly high in the 2-yr-old plantation. In the 10-yr-old plantation and the native forest numbers were low to moderate in the centres but high at the edges bordering on the 1-yr-old plantation. The different population densities are thought to result from differences in availability of cover and food. From author's summary.
Observations of the Behaviour of the Rufous Rat-Kangaroo, Aepyprymnus rufescens (Gray), in Capativity
Authors: Johnson PM
Published: June 2005

Observations of the behaviour of a small macropod marsupial, A. rufescens, were made at night on two males and five females in an enclosure. They were nocturnal and during the day returned to
grass nests. Males were extremely aggressive to one another while females were more tolerant of each other.

Animals were not active for the entire night. Behavioural patterns that were recorded included posture, gaits, comfort movements, grooming, nest building, feeding, marking behaviour, exploratory
behaviour, interactions, vocalizations and sounds, activity rhythm, general reproductive behaviour and homosexual behaviour.
Tooth Wear as an Age Index in a Population of the Brush-Tailed Possum, Trichosurus vulpecula (Kerr)
Authors: Winter JW
Published: June 2005

Tooth wear of M1 was used as a method of assessing age during a field study of the social organization of the brush-tailed possum.
The Diets of Two Coexisting Species of Antechinus (Marsupialia: Dasyuridae).
Authors: Hall S
Published: June 2005

An analysis of faecal samples and stomach contents of Antechinus stuartii and A. swainsonii inhabiting forest in southern Victoria revealed a large overlap in the type and size of prey items taken by these dasyurids. The frequencies of 23 prey types and 15 prey sizes in the diets of these predators were both positively correlated. Weevils (Coleoptera, Curculionidae) represented the only difference in prey types not attributed to individual variations. A. stuartii took more, and a wider size range of, weevils than did A. swainsonii; the trophic diversity index of prey types was greater for A. stuartii. The larger A. swainsonii took more prey greater than 20 mm; it took prey on the average 23% longer and 75% heavier than did A. stuartii; the trophic diversity index of prey size was greater for A. swainsonii. It is concluded that these morphologically distinct predators are exploiting the same large population of prey. They are both generalists and appear to be opportunistic feeders.
Leopard Seals, Hyrurga leptonyx (Pinnipedia), at Macquarie Island from 1949 to 1979
Authors: Rounsevell D , Eberhard I
Published: June 2005

The annual abundance of leopard seals recorded at Macquarie I. since 1949 has regularly oscillated
between a few and 100-200 individuals every 4 or 5 years. Only non-breeding individuals occur, mainly
1-, 2- and 3-year-old seals that are sexually immature, with both sexes in approximately equal numbers.

The seals are present between late June and early December with greatest numbers in early August.
The results of the tagging of 278 leopard seals in 1976-78 show that most of the seals are highly mobile
and leave the island 1 or 2 days after they first arrive, but some may remain for up to 104 days.
Each year a few of the seals tagged in the preceding year have returned to the island. In 1977 tagged
seals were resighted at Campbell I. and Bicheno, Tas., providing the first detailed information on the
movements of individuals leopard seals over long distances. Periodic dispersal of large numbers of
non-breeding leopard seals into subantarctic and temperate seas has produced the observed regular
peaks in relative abundance. Possible causes of this dispersal are discussed.
The Diet of the Wedge-Tailed Eagle, Aquila Audax, in Western Australia.
Authors: Brooker MG , Ridpath MG
Published: June 2005

The diet during nesting of the wedge-tailed eagle Aquila audax was examined in several regions of Western Australia. On the arid Nullarbor Plain, rabbits were by far the major food item despite the presence of a number of other prey species. In the south-west of the State, which has a Mediterranean climate, birds (especially ducks, parrots and corvids), rabbits and sheep were the most important foods in a very diverse diet. On the arid western coast near Carnarvon, kangaroos and sheep predominated as food but a number of foxes and cats were also taken. In northern Western Australia, macropods appeared to be the main food source. Eagles were capable of capturing a large number of different species of reptiles, birds and mammals, and these varied considerably in size. Snakes, and birds from orders Pelecaniformes, Ardeiformes and Charadriiformes were rarely taken. Lambs made a significant contribution to the diet of eagles in some regions of Western Australia but the number eaten relative to the number of neonatal deaths from all causes was not high. In the regions studied, predation by eagles seemed unlikely to have a significant effect on rabbit numbers.
An Aerial Survey of Potential Nesting Areas of Crocodylus prosus on the West Coast of Cape York Peninsula
Authors: Magnusson WE , Grigg GC , Taylor JA
Published: June 2005

This paper presents the results of an aerial survey for potential nesting areas of C. porosus along the
western coast of Cape York Peninsula, Queensland, from the tip of the Cape to the Norman River.
There is a decrease from north to south in the amount of suitable nesting habitat. Many suitable nesting
areas occur north of the Embley River, where relatively higher relief favours the development of freshwater
swamps with a low risk of seasonal flooding. Further south, the broad, alluvial plains and
meandering rivers are often subject to extensive flooding and fewer opportunities for nesting are available.
General conclusions only are given, and management discussed. Detailed results are lodged with
the Australian National Library, Canberra (catalogue No. MS5640).
Surveys of the distribution and density of kangaroos in the pastoral zone of South Australia, and their bearing on the feasibility of aerial survey in large and remote areas
Authors: Caughley G. , Grigg G. C.
Published: June 2005

Kangaroos were censused from the air in 1978, and again in 1979, within the pastoral zone of South Australia, an area of 242,000 km2, three and a half times the size of Tasmania. Logistical problems were minimal despite the remoteness of much of the area, but more than half the time in the air was spent in flying to and between transects. Red kangaroos occurred throughout the zone at the
mean density of 4.62 km–2. Western grey kangaroos averaged a density of 1.22 km–2 over the whole area but were restricted to its southern half. Although the area was sampled at the low intensity of 1.3% the estimates were reasonably precise, that for red kangaroos having coefficient of variation of 7% at each survey, that for grey kangaroos, 13%. Estimated numbers did not differ significantly between years. Maps of density and distribution are given for each species. The cost of such a survey is around 6c per km2 for each 1% of sampling intensity.
The Small Mammals of Little Nourlangie Rock, N.T II. Ecology of Antechinus bilarni, the Sandstone Antechinus (Marsupialia: Dasyuridae)
Authors: Begg RJ
Published: June 2005

In a capture-mark-release program on Antechinus bilarni at Little Nourlangie Rock, N.T., from
February 1977 to June 1979, 34,800 trap nights were set, for a total catch of 174 males and 162 females.
Breeding is strictly seasonal, with mating around late June. Pouch young are carried in August and
September. Lactation continues until December, when free-living young are first trapped. Males show
a seasonal increase in testes size, with a decrease after mating. There is no die-off of males; both
males and females may survive for a second breeding season. Males undergo a second cycle of increase
in testes size, and histological sampling revealed spermatogenesis during their second breeding season.
Individual males and females were trapped for up to 24 and 25 months respectively; KTBA estimates
are similar for both sexes. Both sexes continue to increase in body weight throughout life. although
males lose weight substantially after each breeding season. Sex ratios dropped during October of each
year because the activity and trappability of males dropped. Males were recaptured with the onset
of the wet season. The preferred habitat was scree slope, at an altitude of around 40-55 m. Some
seasonal shifts in habitat were probably related to food availability.
The Small Mammals of Little Nourlangie Rock, N.T III. Ecology of Dasyurus hallucatus, the Northern Quoll (Marsupialia : Dasyuridae)
Authors: Begg RJ
Published: June 2005

A mark-release-recapture program on a population of Dasyurus hallucatus involved 124 individuals;
data were obtained on habitat usage, activity, trappability, sex ratio, numbers known to be alive, survival,
reproduction, growth and movements. Breeding was strictly seasonal, pouch young being recorded from
July to September. Low sex ratios were brought about by most males leaving their area of birth before
the age of 6-7 months. Individual females, by contrast, were trapped for more than 2 years.
Ecological Studies of the Black Swan II*. Colour and Plumage Changes, Growth rates, Sexual Maturation and Timing and Frequency of Breeding
Authors: Braithwaite LW
Published: June 2005

Aspects of the biology of the black swan were obtained mainly from studies of captive birds. Details
are given on colour and plumage; the distinctive juvenile and adult plumages are described; in adults
iris colour differs between the sexes and is related to weight in both sexes and sexual condition in
males Growth rates vary significantly according to environment. Fledging was at 108-141 days for
captive cygnets but was estimated to extend to 170 days in wild birds. Young birds usually moulted
into adult plumage between August and November at ages of 8-26 months. Replacement of the wing
plumage requires 38-51 days. Periods of 7-36 months elapse between moults of the wing plumage,
the period decreasing significantly wlth age. There is no fixed temporal relationship between breeding
and moulting, though adults often moult within six months of laying, so that they are flightless during
the pre-fledging period of cygnets. Breeding birds tend to moult later in the year and more frequently
than birds not breeding. Birds usually attain sexual maturity and breed at ages of 18-24 or 33-36
months, within 1-2 years of attainment of adult plumage. Captive swans bred in all months of the
year except December and January, with most in June-August. Frequency of laying was variable and
highly dependent on the particular circumstances of captivity. Most swans commenced two or more
clutches annually in at least one year of captivity. Within less than 12 months, a single female was
capable of commencing eight clutches or rearing three broods.
Ecological Studies of the Black Swan III. Behaviour and Social Organisation
Authors: Braithwaite LW
Published: June 2005

Aspects of behaviour and social organization in the black swan are outlined and discussed. There
is a high degree of flexibility and individualism in social relationships during breeding, which is considered
to be of significance in the ecology of the species.
Vertebrate Remains in Pellets of the Barn Owl, Tyto Alba, From Planet Downs Station, South-Western Queensland.
Authors: Valente A
Published: June 2005

Vertebrate remains in a collection of barn owl (Tyto alba) pellets from south-western Queensland were largely those of mammals, including Rattus villosissimus, Mus musculus, Leggadina forresti, Planigale tenuirostris, Sminthopsis macroura and S. crassicaudata. R. villosissimus was the most common prey item. P. tenuirostris had not been recorded previously from the area. Other vertebrate remains included those of birds, lizards and frogs. Some insects were also found in the pellets.
Suitability of two Habitats in Northern Australia for the Release of Hatchling Crocodylus porosus from Artifical Nests*
Authors: Magnusson WE
Published: June 2005

Numbers are reported of hatchling crocodiles from artificial nests that could be located at various
periods up to 80 days after release into two habitats in the Liverpool and Tomkinson Rivers system.
None of the animals released into clear upstream areas could be located after 30 days, but hatchlings
were still present in the turbid downstream sections at 35 and 80 days after release. This is thought
to result from differential mortality. The rate of disappearance of hatchlings from both habitats was
greater than that reported for those from natural nests in the same system, suggesting that more work
needs to be done before artificial incubation of eggs can be accepted as a viable means of restocking
rivers.
The Ecology of the Western Swamp Tortoise Pseudemydura Umbrina (Testudines: Chelidae).
Authors: Burbidge AA
Published: June 2005

Western swamp tortoise (Pseudemydura umbrina) was rediscovered in Western Australia in 1954. It is a relict species of a monotypic genus, of very restricted range and specialized habitat. Population was estimated to be 13 to 45 and decreasing at 1 of its 2 native reserves and to be 10 to 45 and static at the other reserve. It does not use permanent water, but lives and feeds in ephemeral winter swamps and spends the other 6 to 9 months of the year in refuges in leaf litter, under fallen branches or in holes in the ground, in contact with the soil. The tortoise is carnivorous and in the wild takes only live aquatic organisms. Captive adults will not take meat until they have starved for many months. Stomach of 1 female (Edward, pers. commun.) had aquatic crustaceans, chiefly Eulimnadia sp., with insects and insect larvae, mainly Coleoptera and Diptera. Study of faeces confirmed that observation had shown that small tadpoles and an aquatic earthworm (Eodrilus cornigravei) were eaten also. Reproduction, growth, activity relative to body and water temperature, and desiccation rate, were noted. One adult female tortoise was eaten by a fox. Foxes and bandicoots (Isoodon obesulus) eat eggs of other tortoises and would eat those of P. umbrina. Hatchlings may be eaten by large wading birds such as straw-necked ibis (Threskiornis spinicollis) and white-faced heron (Notophoyx novaehollandiae).
Notes on Breeding, Growth and Longevity of the Forester or Eastern Grey Kangaroo, Macropus giganteus Shaw, in Tasmania
Authors: Pearse RJ
Published: June 2005

Information is presented on 832 eastern grey kangaroos shot in the midlands and north-east districts
of Tasmania. Young were born throughout the year, but with a marked summer peak. Females matured
sexually in their second year and 16% gave birth in that year. Adult females almost all appeared to
rear one young per year. The sex ratios of 202 pouch young did not differ significantly from 1 : 1.
Males and females attained weights of approximately 60 and 30 kg, respectively, by the age of 8 y;
their maximum recorded weights were 74 and 38 kg respectively. Longevity exceeds 12 y but only
a small proportion of the population reaches this age.
A Study of Grey Kangaroo Density Using Pellet Counts
Authors: Hill GJE
Published: June 2005

During May and July 1978 two faecal pellet surveys were conducted to attain indices of abundance
for a stable population of grey kangaroos within a 33-km2 block of state forest in southern Queensland.
The study area was divided into 25-ha cells, from which approximately one-fifth were selected by random
means for survey. Each cell was sampled by two parallel transects 100 m apart. Along each transect
25 regularly spaced 0.001-ha circular plots were searched for faecal pellets within particular age ranges.
Results were 4634 � 19% and 5071 � 19% pellets km-2 per day respectively (Y � SE). The two surveys
displayed no significant variance in estimates of average density. Preliminary surveys produced no significant
difference in estimates of faecal pellet density between plots of 0.001 and 0.0003 ha. This
held true for counts of pellet totals and pellet group totals. Sampling efficiency was superior for the
larger plot.
Predation of Red Kangaroos, Macropus rufus, by the Dingo, Canis familiaris dingo (Blumenbach) in North-Western New South Wales
Authors: Shepherd NC
Published: June 2005

Over 7 weeks a group of five dingoes killed 83 red kangaroos within 150 m of a watering point in
north-western New South Wales. All except three of these kangaroos were juveniles. Detailed autopsies
were performed on 17 of the dead kangaroos: primary predation was the only significant gross pathological
finding; the dingoes had eaten portions from about half the kangaroos killed. The daily rate
of killing was estimated to be about 0.38 kg prey per kg predator. The rate of killing and the selection
for juvenile kangaroos suggested that dingoes could have a direct effect on kangaroo densities by limiting
rate of increase. The significance of this finding is discussed with reference to the difference in abundance
of kangaroos between the New South Wales and Queensland sides of the border fence.
Age-Specific Fertility in Three Populations of the Koala, Phascolarctos cinereus Goldfuss, in Victoria
Authors: Martin RW
Published: June 2005

Mean fertility in three koala populations in Victoria in 1979 varied from 63% on French I, to 13%
at Walkerville and 22% on Phillip I. Similar differences between the two island populations have existed
for at least 30 y. A method of assigning animals to age classes on the basis of the wear patterns on
the premolar was devised and reproduction in 1979 examined on an age-specific basis. The low fertility
was associated with a reproductive failure among females older than 3 y. On Phillip I. this is thought
to be due to a widespread reproductive tract disease in females, possibly caused by ingestion of phytooestrogens
from eucalypt foliage. At Walkerville a combination of reproductive tract disease, poor
nutrition and heavy tick burdens is thought to be the cause.
Potorus tridactylus (Kerr) (Marsupialia : Macropodidae): its Distribution, Status and Habitat Preferences in Victoria
Authors: Seebeck JH
Published: June 2005

The past and present distribution of P. tridactylus in Victoria is described and mapped. Six discrete
regional populations are identified. For each region the status of the species is assessed, revealing relative
security in all but The Grampians Region. The species' habitat preferences are assessed in terms
of vegetation, soils and climate. It is adduced from all available evidence that, overall, the species
is not endangered; provided present land management practices are not drastically altered.
The Small Mammals of Little Nourlangie Rock, N. T IV.* Ecology of Zyzomys woodwardi, the Large Rock-rat, and Z.argurus, the Common Rock-rat, (Rodentia : Muridae)
Authors: Begg RJ
Published: June 2005

A capture-mark-release program was conducted on Zyzomys woodwardi and Z. argurus at Little
Nourlangie Rock, N.T. From February 1977 to June 1979, 34,800 trap-nights were set for a total catch
of 205 male and 148 female Z. woodwardi, and 152 male and 118 female Z. argurus. Breeding peaked
in March-May, but some young were born in most other months. Rats were classed as adults on the
basis of body weight (Z. woodwardi adults >70 g; Z. argurus adults >29 g). Testes became scrota1
around this weight and remained so. Significantly more males than females were caught for both
species, due to the greater mobility of males, as evidenced by their high transiency rates and greater
mean distances between captures. Trappability dropped to almost zero around March-April, just before
the breeding season, but this was not a result of mortality or emigration. There was a clear spatial
separation between species. Z. woodwardi were caught most often in the Closed Forest and no Z.
argurus were resident there. The latter were most common on the Scree Slope.
A Study of Reproduction in Water Buffalo in the Northern Territory of Australia.
Authors: Tulloch DG , Grassia A
Published: June 2005

Data were obtained on 1094 females and 859 males killed at an abattoir, and 135 females and 32 males shot in the field. The data indicated that cows calve during the late wet or early dry season, after a pregnancy of 10-11 months. Age at 1st conception averaged 28.5 months; puberty occurred at 14-19 months. Pregnancy rate was 76% for the abattoir sample; it was <5% for females aged less than or equal to 3 yr. Bulls were probably fertile for 8 months of the year, the infertile period occurring during the 2nd half of the dry season.
The Diet of Foxes, Vulpes Vulpes (L.), In Relation to Abundance of Prey Above the Winter Snowline in New South Wales.
Authors: Green K , Osborne WS
Published: June 2005

In areas above 1500 m altitude in Kosciusko National Park, New South Wales, between December 1978 and February 1980, the diet of foxes showed strong seasonal trends, with a high occurrence of Orthoptera and Lepidoptera in the snow-free months when these were common, and a general absence of invertebrates when snow covered the area. Small native mammals occurred in the diet in all months and were the winter staple diet; the genera preyed upon were Antechinus, Burramys, Mastacomys and Rattus. Mastacomys fuscus, although less common than Rattus fuscipes, was preyed upon as heavily; the implications of this selective predation are discussed. Foxes showed some selective patterns of predation both in the snow-free months and in winter.
The sensitivity of Australian animals to 1080 poison. I. Intraspecific variation and factors affecting acute toxicity
Authors: Mcilroy J. C.
Published: June 2005

The calculated sensitivity (LD50) of a species to 1080 poison (sodium fluoroacetate), used for control of vertebrate pests, is affected by the experimental procedures employed. Variation can be minimized if the most obvious sources are avoided, as described in this paper. Very young mammals and female waterfowl in breeding condition may be more sensitive to 1080 than other members of their populations. No other substantial differences in sensitivity were found between males and females, immatures and adults, or within and between different populations of six species of birds and mammals in eastern Australia.
Selective Predation by White-Tailed Black Cockatoos on Fruit of Banksia Attenuata Containing the Seed-Eating Weevil Alphitopis Nivea.
Authors: Scott JK , Black R
Published: June 2005

The cockatoo Calyptorhynchus funereus latirostris excavates the seed-eating weevil Alphitopis nivea from young fruits of Banksia attenuata trees but discards the immature seed. The birds attacked similar proportions of trees in 3 nearby areas that differed, due to previous histories of fires, in number of reproductive structures per tree. However, within areas the cockatoos attacked trees with larger numbers of fruits. In addition, the proportion of fruits containing weevils was greater in those fruits that the cockatoos attacked than in those they did not. The weevils mostly occurred in larger fruits and large size could be a clue enabling selection of fruits by the birds. The birds removed between 1 and 2 weevils per fruit, but if the weevils were absent the birds still destroyed follicles and often the whole fruit.
Annual Variation in the Clutch and Egg Sizes of Silver Gulls, Larus novaehollandiae
Authors: Wooller RD , Dunlop JN
Published: June 2005

In two seasons following lower than average annual rainfall, silver gulls laid smaller clutches, their
eggs were smaller and the sequential decrease in egg volume within a clutch was more pronounced
than in a year preceded by heavier rainfall.
The Area Occupied by an Omnivorous Lizard, Trachydosaurus rugosus
Authors: Satrawaha R , Bull CM
Published: June 2005

The positions of individuals of the lizard Trachydosaurus rugosus were recorded regularly between April
1977 and May 1979. The areas occupied by lizards during 1-week periods varied seasonally, and also
varied between lizards at any one time. The overall area occupied by each of 26 lizards, which were
followed for 8 weeks or more, was significantly less than that predicted by Turner et al. (1969) for
carnivorous lizards of equivalent size. The omnivorous diet of T. rugosus may explain the smaller
area requirements of this species. It is not clear what restricts the lizards to an area of minimal requirements.
Courtship and Nesting Behviour of the Freshwater Crocodile, Crocodylus johnstoni, under COntrolled Conditions
Authors: Compton AW
Published: June 2005

Freshwater crocodiles were maintained in captivity, and during the 1978 breeding season the reproductive
behaviour of two pairs was observed. During 23 days, 14 courtships were recorded. Typical
courtship activity is described. Nesting activities always occurred between sundown and 2130 h. During
incubation females visited their respective nests regularly but did not appear to be protective. The
growth rate of developing embryos is described and nest opening by the female recorded.
The Small Mammals of Little Nourlangie Rock, NT. V. The Effects of Fire
Authors: Begg RJ , Martin KC , Price NF
Published: June 2005

Following a capture-mark-release program (February 1977-June 1979) on Dasyurus hallucatus,
Antechinus bilarni, Zyzomys argurus and Zyzomys woodwardi, the study area was burnt to determine
the effects of fire on these species. The area was described in terms of fuel characteristics and details
of the fire were recorded. Post-fire trapping began July 1979 and continued until July 1980 (15,600
trap-nights). A. bilarni was the only species to suffer an increased mortality immediately after the fire,
but the number of animals known to be alive declined over the year following the fire, for all species
except D. hallucatus. The fire affected reproduction in all four species, but in different ways. Breeding
in D. hallucatus was delayed by 1 month, and the mean number of young leaving the pouch per female
was lower than before the fire. A higher number of resident females kept recruitment up. Litter size
in A. bilarni was not affected, but a reduced number of resident females meant that recruitment was
halved. Zyzomys argurus and Z. woodwardi showed few lactating and pregnant females in July-August
following the fire, and the numbers of juveniles were lower than in the previous two years.
Following the fire, no detectable differences in body weight were recorded, but all species except
D. hallucatus changed their preferred habitat, moving to the Scree Slope. Z. woodwardi was most affected,
and moved from the Closed Forest.
Age, Hair Colour, Live Weight and Fertility of Two Samples of Australian Feral Goat, Capra Hircus.
Authors: Holst PJ
Published: June 2005

Feral goats are slaughtered commercially in Australia, and are used in Angora backcrossing programmes. 327 goats from Queensland and 182 from New South Wales were slaughtered at the same abattoir in Mar. and Nov. 1973 resp. For the 2 groups resp., live weight of females averaged 17.93 plus or minus 4.48 to 31.08 plus or minus 5.56 and 24.65 plus or minus 5.77 to 39.20 plus or minus 5.95 kg according to age, live weight of males (excluding fully grown animals) 22.09 plus or minus 3.49 to 34.14 plus or minus 4.63 and 31.03 plus or minus 8.71 to 52.12 plus or minus 6.46 kg, carcass weight of females 9.22 plus or minus 2.54 to 14.95 plus or minus 2.52 and 11.12 plus or minus 2.45 to 17.25 plus or minus 2.49 kg, carcass weight of males 11.09 plus or minus 2.01 to 22.64 plus or minus 3.82 and 14.83 plus or minus 4.47 to 24.80 plus or minus 2.59 kg (excluding fully grown males in the 2nd group), dressing percentage of females 48.1-51.4 and 44.0-45.1, dressing percentage of males (excluding fully grown animals) 49.3-50.2 and 47.6-47.8, percentage of females with corpora lutea 81.8-100 and 50-65.2, number of corpora lutea per cycling female 1.17-2.08 and 1.45-2.00, percentage of females with embryos 18.2-38.5 and 5.9-33.3, and percentage of females with foetuses 7.7-13.6 and 16.7-66.7. Values for the last 4 traits were highest for females with 2, 4 or 6 teeth.
Wallows for Buffalo.
Authors: Tulloch DG , Litchfield RT
Published: June 2005

It would appear that buffaloes wallow for two reasons: (1) when there is water about, all buffaloes
wallow at some time between 1000 and 1500 h; (2) when insect attack is severe, buffaloes will wallow
at any time, even at night. The location of the animal, whether in a wallow or in shade, does not
have any significant effect on the internal (rectal) temperature of the animal. In the present study,
the buffaloes' preference for wallows indicates that shade may not be as good as a wallow in lowering
body temperatures on hotter days.
Habitat and Warren Utilization by the European Rabbit, Oryctolagus cuniculus (L.),as Determined by Radio-Tracking
Authors: Wheeler SH , King DR , Robinson MH
Published: June 2005

'Rabbits equipped with miniature radio transmitters were located when at rest during the day at Cape Naturaliste, W.A. The study site was open pasture with numerous warrens, surrounded by and containing patches of native vegetation in which there were few warrens. Rabbits for instrumentation were live-trapped on the pasture and were located by radio once per day during each of four tracking periods in February, March-April (non-breeding season), May, and June (breeding season). A total of 31 individuals provided 284 locations, 263 (93%) of which were in the scrub. Of 216 locations in the scrub where the position of the rabbit (above or below ground) was known, 164 (765%) were above ground. Individual rabbits were found at several places within their resting areas, some of which were over 100 m into the scrub. The relevance of these results to current methods of rabbit control is discussed.
DIstribution and Abundance of the Rabbit, Oryctolagus cuniculus (L.), at Subantarctic Maqaurie Island
Authors: Copson GR , Brothers NP , Skira IJ
Published: June 2005

Rabbits are common on 50% of Macquarie I. and live mainly in herbfield. Considered to be of domestic
origin, they retain the basic behaviour pattern of wild European rabbits, although there is a tendency
towards diurnal grazing activity. Since 1974 their numbers have been monitored by surface counting
at 12 2-ha sites. In the five years to December 1978, when myxomatosis was successfully introduced
to the island, numbers peaked in the 1977-78 summer, due to good breeding seasons in 1977, 1978
and earlier. Mortality of kittens was high in each year as a result of predation (by feral domestic
cats, skuas and wekas) and because burrows become saturated or even flooded following rises in the
free-water surface. Predators probably take similar numbers of rabbits each year, and overall recruitment
of young into the population is mainly controlled by the effects of wet burrows. However, after
the age of 1 y survival is high, and longevity may be 3 or more years.
Myxomatosis: the Introduction of a Highly Virulent Strain of Myxomatosis Into a Wild Rabbit Population at Urana in New South Wales.
Authors: Parer I , Conolly D , Sobey WR
Published: June 2005

A site of 280 ha at Urana had four discrete rabbit populations. In September 1977 fleas, Spilopsyllus cuniculi, were used to successfully introduce a highly virulent strain (Lausanne) of myxoma virus into two of the populations; the other two were untreated. Eight weeks after virus introduction, rabbits infected with the Lausanne strain were found on the two largest warrens in one of the untreated areas. A field-strain epidemic reached most of the other warrens in the untreated areas in the summer months. Eighteen weeks after the introduction of the Lausanne strain, 1% of the 738 susceptible animals on warrens in the Lausanne-strain areas, 3% of the 328 on warrens in the field-strain areas, and 14% of the 29 on peripheral warrens that escaped myxomatosis had survived. The low rainfall, 25% of average in the second half of 1977, affected pasture production and led to the deaths of almost all rabbits born late in the season. Repeated annual introductions of the Lausanne strain in non-drought years will be necessary to determine the effectiveness of this procedure in reducing recruitment to the breeding population.
Rates of Recovery of Bands, Harvest Patterns and Estimates for Black Duck, Chestnut Teal, Grey Teal and Mountain Duck Shot during Victorian Open Seasons, 1953-1977
Authors: Norman FI , Powell DGM
Published: June 2005

The temporal distribution of recoveries of bands from black duck Anas superciliosa, chestnut teal A.
castanea, grey teal A. gibberifrons and mountain duck Tadorna tadornoides shot in Victoria during open
seasons on waterfowl between 1953 and 1977 is examined. Recoveries were higher on the opening
day and during the opening week of each season; recoveries on Saturdays exceeded those on other
'days', and Sunday recovery totals were minimal. No increase or long-term trend in weekday recoveries,
and hence shooting, was evident during the study period.
Speculative harvest estimates are provided for 1972-77, but such figures must be refined and related
to data concerning specific population sizes and distribution before implications for management can
be formulated.
Growth of Grey Kangaroos and the Reliability of Age Determination from Body Meausrements I. The Eastern Grey Kangaroo, Macropus giganteus
Authors: Poole WE , Carpenter SM , Wood JT
Published: June 2005

Measurements of bodily parts were taken throughout life from captive male and female eastern grey
kangaroos of known birth date. For each body measurement a growth curve was fitted, and confidence
intervals calculated for determining the age of any new animal. A change of phase in the growth
curve was apparent at the time when the young vacate the pouch. A join point in the curve was
empirically estimated to occur at approximately 310 days, and the growth curve was represented by
a 4-parameter non-linear model consisting of two hyperbolas constrained to pass through this common
point. Tables presented permit determination of age from body measurements with corresponding confidence
intervals for both males and females at 30-day intervals in the first year and less frequent
intervals for the age of 15-36 months. Head and leg lengths proved to be the most reliable criteria
for age determination; arm and foot length were reasonably accurate; ear length, tail length and weight
were unreliable criteria.
Road-Kills of Macropds on a Section of Highway in Central Victoria
Authors: Coulson GM
Published: June 2005

A 20-km section of highway near Heathcote in Central Victoria was surveyed for road-killed macropods
over 5 years. Road-kills of seven swamp wallabies, Wallabia bicolor, and 37 eastern grey kangaroos,
Macropus giganteus, were recorded. Kills of grey kangaroos peaked in the autumn of two years. The
majority of kills were of adult males, indicating that motor vehicles act as a selective mortality factor.
Most road-kills also occurred around the time of full moon, suggesting that kangaroos are more mobile
during that phase. The highest incidence of kills per kilometre was recorded between an area of woodland
on one side of the road and farmland on the other. Kangaroo warning signs were erected during
the study, but were not effective in reducing the incidence of road-kills.
Reproduction of the Red-Bellied Pademelon Thylogale billardierii (Marsupialia)
Authors: Rose RW , McCatney DJ
Published: June 2005

'Thylogale billardierii, which is abundant in Tasmania, is a seasonal breeder with most births in the months April, May and June. Parturition is followed by mating, and the zygote so produced remains dormant until either sucking becomes intermittent near the end of pouch life or the young is lost. The mean length of the oestrous cycle was determined at 30.3 days, not significantly longer than the duration of gestation (30.2 days). Removal of pouch young results in the birth of a new young 28.7 days later. Removal of the corpus luteum results in oestrus 11 days later. Pouch life is 202 days, and vacation of the pouch by the young coincides precisely with parturition and post-partum mating. The young mature at about 14-15 months.