bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
An expanding break-away radio-collar for small mammals
Authors: Soderquist TR
Published: June 2005

A radio-transmitter collar of surgical rubber tubing was designed for use on growing juvenile mammals
which require an expanding collar that eventually is shed. In trials on three marsupial species, including
social possums, collars were not chewed by conspecifics. Radio-collars placed on wild juvenile
Phascogale tapoatafa expanded with the animal's growth and broke as a result of abrasion, typically
after 7 weeks or more.
The social organisation and mating system of an Australian subalpine rodent, the broad-toothed rat, Mastacomys fuscus Thomas
Authors: Bubela TM , Happold DCD
Published: June 2005

Mastacomys fuscus is a grass-eating rodent of south-eastern Australia that lives mainly in subalpine
habitats where snow covers the ground for about four months of the year. Radiotelemetry revealed
that in summer the females were territorial. Home ranges of males were larger than those of females
and overlapped extensively with the home ranges of other males and with the home ranges of up to
three females. In winter, males and females huddled together in communal nests. The locations of nest
sites, cover, water and grass also determined the spatial organisation of individuals. The evidence
suggests that M. fuscus is not monogamous, but there were insufficient data to determine whether
polygyny or promiscuity is the preferred mating system. The social organisation of this species, solitary
in summer and communal in winter, is a response to the cold snowy winters and the limited time for
reproduction in summer. The social organisation of M, fuscus is different from that of the other
conilurine rodents of Australia, but similar to that of rodents that live in other alpine regions of
the world.
Ecology of the rufous hare-wallaby, Lagorchestes hirsutus Gould (Marsupialia : Macropodidae) in the Tanami Desert, Northern Territory.I Patterns of habitat use.
Authors: Lundie-Jenkins G
Published: June 2005

A 2-year study was conducted to investigate two aspects of the local distribution of the rufous harewallaby,
Lagorchestes hirsutus, in a region of the Tanami Desert. These were: (a) patterns of habitat
use in response to changing environmental conditions and (b) environmental parameters influencing
'local' choice of habitat.
Counts of faecal pellets and tracks were used to obtain indices of hare-wallaby activity within
occupied sites and to gain an insight into the movements by individuals. Local choice of habitat was
analysed by assessment of numerous habitat features at occupied and unoccupied sites in the region.
Previous surveys over the greater part of the study area provide evidence of a significant local
decline and local contraction of range by L. hirsutus during recent times. Hare-wallabies showed
seasonal trends in the relative use of different vegetation systems in response to the relative availability
of food items within each habitat. The home ranges of hare-wallabies consisted of two distinct areas
of activity: a large sparsely used area within the dense Triodia pungens vegetation and a small concentrated
feeding area within the neighbouring caliche system.
Hare-wallabies were dependent upon a specialised form of spinifex habitat. Patchiness, hummock
size, food diversity and the degree of floral senescence affected suitability for hare-wallabies. Within
the Tanami Desert site, suitable combinations of these characters were associated with tight mosaics of
different regenerative stages after fire. Fire is therefore clearly implicated as an important force in
creating a greater diversity of feeding and sheltering habitats for the hare-wallabies in the otherwise
uniform spinifex sandplains. There is an obvious role for the application of controlled burns as a means
of managing habitats to favour L. hirsutus in the Tanami Desert.
Ecology of the rufous hare-wallaby, Lagorchestes hirsutus Gould (Marsupialia : Macropodidae) in the Tanami Desert, Northern Territory. III Interactions with introduced mammal species.
Authors: Lundie-Jenkins G , Corbett LK , Phillips CM
Published: June 2005

This paper reports a study of the interactions between a remnant population of the rufous hare-wallaby,
Lagorchestes hirsutus, and populations of several introduced mammal species in a region of the Tanami
Desert. Transect counts of faecal pellets and tracks were used to determine the local distributions of
all species and analysis of faeces from both predators and competitors of hare-wallabies was undertaken.
Six species of introduced mammals were recorded within the study area: dingoes, rabbits, camels,
foxes, feral cats and cattle. The local distributions for a number of these species were found to be
significantly correlated with that of L. hirsutus during some seasons. Analysis of dingo scats collected
from fire trails within the study area identified a total of 12 different food classes including harewallabies
which occurred in 6.9% of the scats. Foxes and feral cats appear to be more important
predators as demonstrated by their impacts on natural and reintroduced populations of hare-wallabies.
Comparison of the diets of the rabbit and L. hirsutus identified significant overlap in utilised plant
species, particularly during drier times. Competition between rabbits and L. hirsutus seems probable,
given the overlap of their diets and their similar body sizes and metabolic requirements. Cattle and
camels are potentially as important at densities above present levels.
The complex web of interactions between L. hirsutus and these introduced species have important
implications for management of remnant and reintroduced hare-wallaby populations.
The green turtle, Chelonia mydas, in Queensland: breeding males in the southern Great Barrier Reef
Authors: Limpus CJ
Published: June 2005

Breeding male green turtles, Chelonia mydas, at any one courtship area in the southern Great Barrier
Reef mate with females that will nest on rookeries spread throughout the region. In comparison with
the breeding females from the same breeding unit, the males are smaller in curved carapace length, and
a higher proportion of males remigrate for additional breeding seasons at 1-2-year intervals. Like the
adult females, adult males are slow-growing, averaging 0.046 cm year-1. Each male appears to display
a fidelity to a particular courtship area, to which it returns in successive breeding migrations. At the
conclusion of the courtship period, the males disperse to widely scattered feeding areas.
The Demography of Feral Pigs (Sus Scrofa) in Kosciusko National Park, New South Wales.
Authors: Saunders G
Published: June 2005

The demography of a sub-alpine population of feral pigs was examined at Kosciusko National Park in south-eastern New South Wales. Reproductive data and age structures indicated a seasonal pattern of breeding, most births occurring in summer and autumn. It is proposed that a decreasing availability of high protein food in the autumn and winter months caused reduced rates of conception. Sows produced 0.84 litters per year with postnatal mortality as high as 85%. The population appeared relatively stable at a density of 1.6 pigs kg-2. Hunting, although illegal in a national park, removed 4.4-15.4% of pigs each year. The overall health and body condition of pigs was good, with no evidence of heavy parasitic burdens or disease. Age-specific body weight and body length in this study were greater than those reported for pigs in semi-arid wester New South Wales.
Reproductive biology of the bell miner (Manorina melanophrys) (Meliphagidae) at Healsville, south-eastern Victoria
Authors: Poiani A
Published: June 2005

The breeding biology of the bell miner (Manorina melanophrys, Meliphagidae) at a site 60 km east of
Melbourne, Victoria, is described. Bell miners showed a clear seasonal pattern of nesting, moulting and
development of brood patch. Increased food availability and number of helpers were not associated with
increased nesting success. This is partially explained by increased predation on nests in colonies with
more helpers. Growth rates of nestlings did not increase with increased number of helpers and habitat
quality, although these variables may affect postfledging survival rates. Breeding females organised into
neighbourhoods seemed to be able to synchronise nesting. Egg shape differed among females but egg
size did not, although egg volume increased as the breeding season progressed.
A harp trap for large megachriopterans
Authors: Tidemann CR , Loughland RA
Published: June 2005

A harp trap for capturing large megachiropterans is described. The trap is portable and can be
transported on a vehicle roof rack. It can be set up in 3h by three people and dismantled in half that
time. Three species have been captured, Pteropus poliocephalus (n = 2327), P. alecto (n = 1509) and
P. scapulatus (n = 780), with virtually no injuries.
Estimate of the population structure of the estern water dragon, Physignathus lesueurii (Reptilia : Agamidae), along riverside habitat
Authors: Thompson MB
Published: June 2005

A population of eastern water dragons, Physignathus lesueurii, was investigated along 1.5km of
the Gloucester River in central eastern New South Wales from November 1989 to December 1992.
Dragons were caught in all months from September to April, but not in June. In all, 373 dragons were
marked and 69 of these were recaptured on one or more occasions. Females are ovigarous in late
October, November and December. Only about one third of females have palpable eggs during these
months. Hatchlings enter the population in February and March at 4.5g, with a snout-vent length
(SVL) of 53mm. In the next season they are 19.5g (SVL 80mm). The dragons grow rapidly for four
years to reach adult size. Growth rates are fastest during the first year at 2.25mm SVL per month
or 1.25 g per month. The Jolley-Seber population estimate for adult females was 103 +/-49 in the study
site or 69 per km of river. Estimates for males and for the total population could not be calculated
because individuals were not equally catchable (Leslie's test for equal catchability). However, theoretical
considerations place the density of adult dragons at 138-215 per km of river. The largest male was
304mm SVL, 54mm longer than the next-largest water dragon reported. One male was heavier than
1000g. The largest female was 230mm SVL and the heaviest was 490g, or approximately half the
mass of the heaviest male. Adult males and adult females have the same proportion of broken tails.
Water dragons are fairly sedentary, with an average distance of 76m (range 0-785m) between captures.
Factors Affecting Bait Uptake and Trapping Success for Feral Pigs (Sus Scrofa) in Kosciusko National Park.
Authors: Saunders G , Kay B , Nicol H
Published: June 2005

An evaluation of the rate and extent of population reduction that can be achieved by trapping feral pigs was conducted in a subalpine area of Kosciusko National Park in south-eastern New South Wales. Movements of pigs during the programme were monitored by radio-telemetry. In total, 142 pigs, including 12-17 (71%) previously fitted with transmitters and known to be still on the study site, were captured over 330 trap-nights at a cost of $A104 per pig. A model fitted to the change in percentage of bait stations eaten per day relative to the cumulative number of pigs caught estimated a population reduction of 62% of animals exposed to traps and only 28% of the entire population. Determinants of trap success are discussed. During the trapping evaluation and in 2 preceding seasons, factors that influenced the rate at which bait stations were found and eaten were also examined. Both the locality characteristics of bait stations and the time of year were found to have significant effects on this rate.
Electric Fences and Poison Buffers as Barriers to Movements and Dispersal of Brushtail Possums (Trichosurus Vulpecula) on Farmland.
Authors: Cowan PE , Rhodes DS
Published: June 2005

Limitation of the spread of bovine tuberculosis by brushtail possums (Trichosurus vulpecula) in New
Zealand involves creating buffer zones 3-5km wide around areas where the disease is endemic in
possum populations; low possum density is established by aerial and ground poisoning and maintained
by repeated control. The effectiveness of a buffer zone was examined using live-trapping and radiotracking
to study movements and dispersal of juvenile and adult possums in comparison with a nearby,
undisturbed (control) site. At a third site, the effect of a 3-km long, 9-strand electric fence, erected
from ridge to ridge across a valley catchment, for reducing possum dispersal was measured, as an
alternative to a buffer zone.
Adult possums were highly sedentary; only one permanent shift of more than 0.5km was detected
during repeated live-trapping and radio-tracking, and most consecutive live captures were in traps
less than 200m apart. None of the radio-tagged adults adjacent to the poison buffer zones moved
permanently into the low-density areas. By contrast, about 20% of radio-tagged juveniles dispersed more
than 0.5km, moving up to 11.6km from their natal areas, most in a generally west-north-west to
east-north-east direction. About equal numbers dispersed upstream, downstream, or in other directions.
Significantly more males dispersed than females, but their dispersal distances were similar. Some
dispersing possums moved more than 2km overnight, and females, particularly, often made several
moves before settling. Most juveniles dispersed before they were one year old, mainly in the three
months immediately preceding the peak of births in autumn. Neither the poison buffer zone nor the
electric fence appeared to influence the proportion of juveniles that dispersed more than 0.5km,
or the average distance dispersed. The implications of these findings in preventing the spread of bovine
tuberculosis are discussed.
The Importance of Disease in Reintroduction Programmes.
Authors: Viggers KL , Lindenmayer DB , Spratt DM
Published: June 2005

Disease may play an important role in the decline or extinction of small, isolated animal populations.
Disease also has thwarted attempts to reintroduce some endangered captive-bred species. Despite this,
the impacts of disease rarely have been considered in the planning and design of reintroduction
programmes. A remnant wild population could be decimated by a disease cointroduced with reintroduced
animals. Alternatively, diseases that are endemic in wild animal populations could be fatal
for those immunologically naive individuals that are reintroduced. We contend that the planning of
reintroduction programmes should include an examination of the potential impacts of disease on extant
populations and on animals targeted for release. A number of steps are outlined to reduce disease risk
and to minimise the probability of failure of reintroductions because of disease.
Habitat use and body form of the long-tailed mouse (Pseudomys higginsi)
Authors: Stoddart DM , Challis G
Published: June 2005

The Tasmanian long-tailed mouse (Pseudomys higginsi) is more readily trapped in upland habitats
(alpine and montane forest habitats) than in lowland forests in southern Tasmania. Morphometric
examination of the relationship between hind-foot length and head-body length, and tail length and
head-body length, in eight species of Pseudomys reveals that P. higginsi has both a relatively longer
hind foot and tail than other species in the genus, but the significance of this is unclear.
Reproductive biology of the feral house mouse (Mus musculus) on subantarctic Macquarie Island
Authors: Pye T
Published: June 2005

Reproduction of the feral house mouse (Mus musculus) was studied on subantarctic Macquarie Island and found to be seasonal. Females begin oestrus-cycling in early spring, following a minimum 3-month winter anoestrous period. By late spring all mature females are in breeding condition. Breeding is continuous through spring, summer and into autumn. Postimplantation loss occurs throughout the breeding season. Late autumn pregnancies may fail. Average litter size is 6-7 but litters as large as 10 have been found. Young born in the latter half of the breeding season attain sexual maturity at a later stage than those born in the early-spring-summer period and do not come into breeding condition until the following spring. Males show a slight cyclical change in testes weight, increasing from a winter minimum to a summer maximum, but are potentially capable of breeding throughout the year. Reproductive seasonality of the female determines breeding behaviour in this isolated subantarctic population of feral house mice. Seasonal reproduction is not well correlated with mean monthly ambient temperature, which varies by only 3O degrees C over the year. Food availability appears constant throughout the year with little interspecific competition for food or predation on the mice. Reproduction is suppressed over the short-day winter months. The possible interaction of photoperiod with other environmental and physiological variables in determining reproductive seasonality requires further research.
Prey harvest of the Australasian gannet (Sula serrator) in Tasmania
Authors: Brothers N , Gales R , Pemberton D
Published: June 2005

This study investigated the diet of the Australasian gannet (Sula serrator) at Pedra Branca, an island
off the south coast of Tasmania. A total of 109 regurgitations representing 394 prey items was collected
from the gannets between 1986 and 1991. Pelagic schooling fish, with fork length less than 200 mm,
were the most common prey items. Redbait (Emmelichthys nitidus) and jack mackerel (Trachurus
declivis) were the dominant prey species, with redbait being the most numerous, contributing 72% by
number and 56% by mass. The diet of the Australasian gannet was compared with the fish taken
by the commercial purse seine fishery in which jack mackerel was the target species and redbait a
bycatch. The mean size of commercially caught fish of both species was greater than that taken by the
gannets. We suggest that there is a threshold (in the size of the fish) above which the birds cannot
capture and handle the prey, effectively limiting the resource available to them. It appears that the
commercial fishery and the gannets, while harvesting the same species, exploit schools of different-size
fish. The potential of Australasian gannets as indicators of fish stocks is discussed.
Natural mortality of juvenile rabbits (Oryctolagus cuniculus ) in North Canterbury, New Zealand
Authors: Robson DL
Published: June 2005

Rabbit-breeding stops were monitored over 35ha of improved farmland, with relatively stable rabbit
numbers, in North Canterbury, New Zealand. The number of stops dug varied seasonally, with most
in spring, fewest in autumn. Pasture quality appeared to have a marked influence on breeding activity
and productivity of the rabbits. Of the 427 breeding stops located, litters were found in 33%. Most
(97%) of these stops were lined with grass and belly fur from the doe. Most juvenile rabbit mortality
occurred prior to weaning. Of the 126 litters monitored, 38% were preyed upon, 29% drowned and
20% were either preyed upon or drowned prior to emergence. Young drowned when sufficient rainfall
for a particular soil type caused flooding of stops. In all, 13% of litters were weaned and left the
breeding stop, with late spring-early summer being the most favourable period for survival. Predator
numbers were lowest during this period. Ferrets were the most numerous predator; cats and harriers
were also present. Disease was not significant. Of those rabbits that emerged, approximately 50%
survived to 14 weeks of age. Less-frequent drowning during a sequence of dry years may explain an
increase in rabbit number observed in previous years. This may make it possible to predict the need
for control.
Population dynamics and habitat use of the long-haired rat (Rattus villosissimus) in south-western Queensland
Authors: Predavec M , Dickman CR
Published: June 2005

A population of Rattus villosissimus was studied during an 18-month period in a sand-dune habitat in
south-western Queensland. The population numbers fluctuated dramatically during this time. Increases
in population numbers were due primarily to immigration, with reproduction playing a secondary role.
Rain-induced increases in food availability are the most likely stimuli for these increases. The cause of
population decline is not clear from this study, but predation and disease may be important factors.
Radio-tracking showed that the spatial activity of the animals was concentrated on the sides of the
dunes, and around burrows. Temporal activity is influenced by moonlight, with animals remaining in
burrows for long periods of time on bright nights.
Chlamydia Psittaci in a Koala (Phascolarctos Cinereus) Population in South-East Queensland.
Authors: White NA , Timms P
Published: June 2005

Clinical signs are useful in determining the level of overt disease. However, neither the complement fixation test, nor the presence of clinical signs of disease are appropriate measures for the detection of Chlamydia psittaci in koalas because of false negative rates of 43 and 57%, respectively. Infection due to C. psittaci was most accurately determined in a population of koalas in rural south-east Queensland by in vitro cell culture of samples from ocular and urogenital sites. Prevalence of infection ranged from 39 to 61% with no evidence of a trend with time. Females had more urogenital and fewer concurrent ocular and urogenital infections than males. Parous females (n = 17) were free of disease and only one was recorded with urogenital infection (cell culture). In non-parous females (n = 16), 6 showed clinical signs of urogenital disease and a further 3 were infected (cell culture).
Home range of the allied rock-wallaby, Petrogale assimilis
Authors: Horsup A
Published: June 2005

The home range and movements of the allied rock wallaby, Petrogale assimilis, a small macropod of
the seasonally wet-dry tropics of Queensland, were studied over a 22-month period. There was no
significant difference in the size of home ranges (95% isopleth) or core areas (65% isopleth) of males
and females. Home ranges were generally elliptical with a mean size of 11.9 ha. Season had a major
effect on home ranges. The following measures were all significantly greater in the dry seasons than
in the wet seasons: home-range size (larger), home-range shape (more elongate), distance moved by
females when feeding (longer), distance between shelter site and home-range centre of activity (longer).
Feeding movements of males did not vary seasonally and were as long as dry-season movements of
females, suggesting that movements of males are primarily determined by behavioural rather than
physiological considerations. The overlap of rock-wallaby home ranges varied little between the sexes
or seasons and averaged 38%. Core areas overlapped by an average of 22%; however, feeding adult
rock-wallabies rarely met other conspecifics, except their partners. A comparison of the fixes of
unpaired wallabies that had overlapping home ranges showed that temporal separation was occurring.
In contrast, the home ranges of consort pairs showed extremely high temporal and spatial overlap.
Rock-wallabies exhibited strong fidelity to their home ranges. The overlap of the seasonal home ranges
and core areas of each individual rock wallaby averaged 68% and 52%, respectively. However, the
seasonal home range of a socially immature adult male altered in location and size as he matured
socially until it stabilised when he obtained a permanent consort.
Assessment of the Potential Toxicity of an Anticoagulant, Pindone (2-Pivalyl-1,3-Indandione), to Some Australian Birds.
Authors: Martin GR , Kirkpatrick WE , King DR , Robertson ID , Hood PJ , Sutherland JR
Published: June 2005

The sensitivity of a number of avian species to the rabbit poison pindone (2-pivalyl-1,3-indandione) was investigated using increase of prothrombin time (PT) as an index of poisoning. Daily dose levels of pindone were 0.25 mg/kg for eagles, 4.0 mg/kg for magpies and 5.0 mg/kg for pigeons, parrots and ducks. Considerable species variation in response was observed, and within each species there was considerable individual variation in response to pindone. The PTs of magpies and ducks increased to approximately twice baseline levels. Significant elevations (4- to 7-fold) occurred in parrots, pigeons and eagles. Clinical symptoms were observed in only one species, the wedge-tailed eagle. Results of dosing trials indicate that all species tested are theoretically at risk of pindone poisoning, although the risk to some species is minimised by factors such as population size, food availability and bait placement.
The distribution and abundance of the dugong in Shark Bay, Western Australia
Authors: Marsh H , Prince RIT , Saafeld WK , Shepherd R
Published: June 2005

In July 1989, dugongs were counted from the air at an overall sampling intensity of 7.9% over
14 239 km2 in Shark Bay, Western Australia. Counts were corrected for perception bias (the proportion
of dugongs visible in the transect that are missed by observers), and standardised for availability bias
(the proportion of animals invisible because of water turbidity) with survey-specific correction factors.
The resultant minimum population estimate was 10146 � 1665 (s.e.) dugongs at an overall density of
0.71 � 0.12 (s.e.) dugongs km-2, the highest density ever recorded on a large-scale dugong survey.
The proportion of calves (19%) was higher than for most other dugong surveys conducted in Shark
Bay and elsewhere, suggesting an exceptionally high calving rate in 1988. Dugong density was highest
(>5 km-2) in relatively deep water (12-16 m) in the eastern half of Shark Bay opposite the tip of
Peron Peninsula and in the western Bay opposite the northern half of Dirk Hartog Island. Fewer than
4% of dugongs sighted in Shark Bay during the survey were in waters colder than 18�C. Results of
aerial surveys over 906 km2 in the Faure Sill region of the eastern Bay in November 1990 and January
1991 suggest that between a third and a half of the dugongs in Shark Bay are located in this region
during the summer. In contrast, only one dugong was sighted there during the winter survey. The
survey confirms that Shark Bay is an internationally significant dugong habitat.
Demographic variation and range contraction in the northern quoll, Dasyurus hallucatus (MArsupialia : Dasyuridae).
Authors: Braithwaite RW , Griffiths AD
Published: June 2005

Mark-recapture studies of northern quoll (Dasyurus hallucatus) were conducted in lowland savanna in
Kakadu National Park during two periods: in 1985-87 when total mammal abundance was high, and
in 1989-91 when total mammal abundance was low. Population characteristics from these studies are
compared with results from a 1977-79 study in sandstone escarpment country 40 km to the south-east
and from studies in a range of habitats on the Mitchell Plateau in the Kimberley.
Populations in rocky country are most dense with animals often surviving two or three years.
In contrast, populations in savanna are more sparse, with males and females rarely surviving beyond
one mating season. While all populations seem to undergo an annual period of stress, it is the savanna
populations that seem most vulnerable. An analysis of the distribution of northern quolls shows a 75%
recent range reduction, from being widespread over much of northern Australia to six smaller rocky
regions. Possible causes of the decline include cattle, cane toads and exotic disease.
Distribution of Feeding Activity of the Tasmanian Bettong (Bettongia Gaimardi) in Relation to Vegetation Patterns.
Authors: Johnson CN
Published: June 2005

The Tasmanian bettong (Bettongia gaimardi) feeds by digging for the fruit-bodies of hypogeous ectomycorrhizal fungi in dry sclerophyll forest. This study examined variations in the density of food-diggings of B. gaimardi in relation to vegetation patterns in a 150-ha study area. Density of B. gaimardi diggings was highest in Eucalyptus tenuiramus [E. tenuiramis] forest with a high density of mature stems and little ground vegetation; this type of vegetation was found on soils of low fertility. Density of diggings also increased towards the dry end of a moisture gradient characterized by a transition from E. amygdalina to E. obliqua, and increased with the density of Acacia dealbata stems. High densities of A. dealbata probably indicate recent burning. Analysis of the fine-scale distribution of diggings showed that diggings were clustered around Eucalyptus and Acacia stems, but showed no pattern in relation to density of ground vegetation.
Fat reserves and reproduction in the green turtle, Chelonia mydas
Authors: Kwan D
Published: June 2005

Measurements were made of the fat and water content of standard cores of fat lining the inner carapace
of green turtles caught and butchered by indigenous fishermen in Daru, Papua New Guinea. The
amount of depot fat, total lipid and neutral lipid per core varied with the sex, maturity and reproductive
status of the turtle. The fat content of cores from prepubescent turtles did not vary with sex.
In contrast, cores from adult female turtles had a significantly greater fat content than those from
males. Cores from pubescent and vitellogenic females had the highest fat content. Neutral (storage) lipid
was significantly higher in cores from vitellogenic females than in those from breeding, which suggests
that sub-carapace depot fat is used to fuel the energetically expensive costs of migration and egg
production. Cores from breeding females had a significantly higher fat content than those from males,
which suggests that the energetic costs of vitellogensis and egg-laying are reflected in sub-carapace fat
stores. The greater energetic cost to this fat store for breeding by females is also reflected in the
significantly higher water content of the fat of females that had bred in the previous season compared
with those in vitellogenesis. In contrast, there was no significant difference between the water content
of cores from non-breeding and breeding males.
Factors affecting the success rate of traps for catching feral pigs in a tropical habitat
Authors: Caley P
Published: June 2005

Factors affecting the success rate of traps for catching feral pigs inhabiting a tropical habitat in the
Northern Territory, Australia, were identified by constructing a generalised linear model relating capture
rates of pigs to environmental variables. Capture rates were influenced most significantly by time of
year, being highest during the late dry season and lowest during the late wet season. The next-most
important variables were the presence of fresh pig-tracks at the trap site before construction, and
vegetation type, with capture rates higher in closed forest, open forest and woodland habitats than in
open woodland and low open woodland habitats. Other variables that significantly influenced capture
rates were whether pigs had previously eaten bait at the trap site, presence of rooting, bait type, and
distance from water. The model developed here provides a useful framework of planning and conducting
feral pig trapping programmes in the Northern Territory and other similar tropical habitats.
Comparative ecology of western grey kangaroos (Macropus fulginosus) and euros (M. robustus erubescens) in Durokoppin Nature Reserve, isolated in the central wheatbelt of Western Australia
Authors: Arnold GW , Steven DE , Weeldenberg JR
Published: June 2005

The populations of western grey kangaroos (Macropus fuliginosus) and euros (M. robustus erubescens)
in a 1196-ha area of native vegetation in the central wheatbelt of Western Australia were studied
over six years (1985-91). The area was isolated from other remnants of native vegetation by at least
1.4 km.
Captures were made periodically throughout each year and the animals weighed and measured.
In all, 152 animals were captured (83 euros and 69 western grey kangaroos). The data for each sex and
species were assigned to 'seasons' (February-July or August-January) and assessments made of body
condition. The weights and tail circumstances, adjusted for individual size by regression on leg length,
were higher for western grey kangaroos but not for euros in August-January. Euro males varied
significantly in weight from year to year; euro females and grey males and females did not. Too few
grey females were captured to analyse seasonality of reproduction. The estimated birth dates of
68 euro pouch young were distributed equally throughout the study period.
There were approximately equal numbers of each species in an estimate made in 1988 from a
helicopter survey, with a total (� s.e.) of 191�29 kangaroos. The mean faecal pellet counts on 42 Tied
transects of 100 m2 did not differ significantly over the period 1985-88. These counts showed that the
overall use of the different vegetation types varied by a factor of two. Heaths had the highest pellet
counts and open mallee or woodland the least, with Allocasuarina-dominated shrublands being intermediate.
Spotlight surveys around the reserve boundary showed a highly significant difference in
distribution of the two species. This was confirmed by analysis of the home ranges of 13 radio-collared
individuals. Euros showed a strong preference for areas of York gum-wandoo-jam woodland with a
herbaceous ground layer and areas with tall Allocasuarina or dense heath. In contrast, the western grey
kangaroos preferred the heathlands and open woodlands without a herbaceous ground cover. The sex
ratios of the whole populations seen in spotlight searches was 0.72 : 1.00 (males: females) for western
grey kangaroos and 0.81 : 1.00 for euros. Both differ significantly from parity. There was a higher
proportion of female euros amongst the animals seen in the western part of the reserve than in the
eastern part. These populations relied mainly on the resources of the reserve. The average number of
kangaroos seen on adjacent farmland on any one night varied from 3.6 in 1986 to 13.5 in 1991.
A significantly higher proportion of males of both species were seen on farmland.
Breeding biology and haul-out pattern of the New Zealand fur seal, Arctopehalus forsteri, at Cape Gantheaume, South Australia
Authors: Goldsworthy SD , Shaughnessy PD
Published: June 2005

New Zealand fur seals, Arctocephalus forsteri, breed at Cape Gantheaume (36�04'S,137�28'E),
Kangaroo Island, South Australia, on broken rock platforms. In 1988-89, pups were born between late
November and mid-January, 90% of them over 34 days between 3 December and 6 January. The
median date of birth was 21 December. A re-analysis of data for this species from three breeding
seasons at the Open Bay Islands (South Island, New Zealand, 43�52'S,l68�53'E) indicates that: (i) the
breeding season at Cape Gantheaume occurs 5-12 days later than at the Open Bay Islands, (ii) the
period containing 90% of births was the same duration for both populations, and (iii) the median date of
birth spanned seven days in three seasons at the Open Bay Islands. In addition, the timing and duration
of the pupping season varied within the Cape Gantheaume colony, it being later in recently colonised
areas. We suggest that this pattern is a consequence of changes in the age distribution of females
through the colony. The sex ratio of pups born in the colony over four breeding seasons did not differ
significantly from 1:l. Females were mated on average 7.4 days after birth and left for sea 2.3 days
later. The mean date of observed matings was 29 December; copulations lasted about 13 min. The
operational sex ratio (OSR) in the colony was 8.6 females per territorial male (the maximum ratio of
territorial males to pups was 1:16), which was within the range reported for other southern fur seal
species. In two consecutive breeding seasons, the estimated fecundity rate of adult females averaged
67%. Non-breeding animals (sub-adult males, juveniles and yearlings) occurred in areas not occupied
by breeding animals. The number of juveniles ashore increased after the breeding season, but no pattern
was found for sub-adults and yearlings. Yearlings were uncommon in the colony at all times; it is
suggested that they are mostly pelagic and do not moult in their second year.
Development and Testing of Attractants for Feral Cats, Felis Catus L.
Authors: Clapperton BK , Eason CT , Weston RJ , Woolhouse AD , Morgan DR
Published: June 2005

As part of a programme to improve feral-cat control and eradication techniques, various odours were tested
as candidate lures. They included food odours (fish oils), social odours (urine and its components, anal-sac
secretions and commercial wild-animal lures) and plant materials (catnip, matatabi and their essential oils).
Pen bioassay experiments used a preference procedure on captive feral and domestic cats to compare the
time spent investigating the odours and the number of cats visiting each odour. Field trials at rubbish dumps
used scent stations to assess cat activity. Catnip and matatabi were the most promising candidate lures in
both the pen bioassay and the field trials. Future directions for lure developments are suggested.
Reproduction in the red-legged pademelon, Thylogale stigmatica Gould (Marsupialia : Macropodidae), and age estimation and development of pouch young
Authors: Johnson PM , Vernes K
Published: June 2005

The reproduction of Thylogale stigmatica in captivity was studied and a predictive growth equation
for age determination of the pouch young was developed. The general pattern of reproduction
involved an oestrous cycle of 29-32 days, a gestation period of 28-30 days and a mean pouch life
of 184 days. A post-partum oestrus and mating generally followed birth. Births were observed
in all months in captivity, and from October to June in the wild. Mean age of weaning of young
was 66 days following permanent pouch emergence, and the mean ages at maturity for females
and males was 341 and 466 days, respectively.
Population dynamics of an outbreak population of house mice (Mus domesticus) in the irrigated rice-growing area of Australia
Authors: Boonstra R , Redhead TD
Published: June 2005

Conditions appear ideal for annual plagues of house mice in irrigated rice-growing areas of
Australia, yet plagues in these areas usually coincide with those in the dry farms. In an irrigated
rice crop near Jerilderie, New South Wales, we examined in detail the demography of an incipient
plague population of Mus domesticus. Breeding occurred from winter 1983 to autumn 1984 and
the population increased from low levels to plague levels (2500 ha-1) by May. We found no
evidence for a rigid territorial social organisation. Dispersal of tagged animals was low throughout
the breeding season, yet between 60% and 76% of the trappable population was new each trapping
session. Testosterone levels increased when the average male body weight was low, suggesting
that social suppression of reproduction was not occurring. We conclude that plagues in these
areas can develop within approximately 12 months from the onset of drought-breaking rains.
Extent and nature of cyanide-shyness in some opulations of Australian brushtail possums in New Zealand
Authors: Warburton B , Drew KW
Published: June 2005

The proportion of possums with cyanide-shyness was assessed in four populations and ranged
from 12 to 54%. These results supported anecdotal evidence of cyanide-shyness and showed that
the problem could be significant in some populations. Non-toxic baiting with rhodamine dye as
a marker indicated that more than 90% of possums were willing to accept the bait material, and
pen trials showed that possums were able to eat the bait material but reject the cyanide paste
placed in the bait. Shyness was therefore not a result of bait aversion but of direct rejection of
the toxin. Attempts to induce shyness in possums by feeding them sublethal doses of cyanide,
and the history of cyanide use in the trial areas, support the theory that at least in some areas
cyanide-shyness is not a result of previous exposure (learned aversion) but of primary aversion.
Current research to produce cyanide formulations with low emission rates of hydrogen cyanide
aims to make the toxin effective even in areas where cyanide-shyness has developed.
Microclimatic conditions in maternity caves of the bent-wing bat, Miniopterus schreibersii: an attempted restoration of a former maternity site.
Authors: Baudinette RV , Wells RT , Sanderson KJ , Clark B
Published: June 2005

A 2-year study of Bat and Robertson caves in south-eastern South Australia provided information
on the microclimatic conditions in a maternity cave of the bat Miniopterus schreibersii. The
study also monitored changes in the temperature and humidity conditions in what is believed to
be a former maternity site, Robertson Cave, following restoration of the damaged dome. The
maternity cave, Bat Cave, was characterised by mild hypoxic and hypercapnic conditions, high
relative humidity, and temperatures in the roosting area of around 30°C. Accumulated guano
deposits had some areas of heat generation, but the bats themselves appeared to be the primary
modifiers of their own microenvironment. To support this finding, the recapping of Robertson
Cave resulted in high humidities and a narrow range of temperature fluctuations; however, the
temperature never reached the levels seen in Bat Cave. Our conclusion that the heat production of
the bats themselves is the prime factor affecting microclimatic conditions necessary for breeding
may relate to the observation that few maternity sites serve large and widespread populations of
this species.
population ecology of the Australian frog Crinia signifera: egg-laying patterns and egg mortality
Authors: Williamson I , Bull CM
Published: June 2005

There are few studies of embryo mortality in anurans, and most of these studies deal with anurans that
deposit clutches as one egg mass. In this study, egg mortality in Crinia signifera, an anuran that distributes
its clutches in small clusters of eggs, was examined with the aims of: (i) determining overall mortality
levels, and (ii) determining whether there was significant variation in success between clutches laid by
different females. Hatching success varied significantly between years and between habitats, and was as
low as 2% in some habitats in some years. Fungal infection caused most mortality, and hatching success
was higher in temporary pools than in a permanent water body. Although significant variation in clutch
success between females could occur if clutches were laid in different habitats or at different times, it was
not clear whether there would be significant variation in clutch success between females laying
simultaneously in the same water body. Differences in success of clutches might occur if females
distributed eggs at different depths or in different-sized clusters. However, information on inter-female
variation in these components of egg-laying behaviour in C. signifera is currently unavailable.
Diet of powerful owls (Nixox strenua) living near Melbourne, Victoria
Authors: Lavazanian E , Wallis R , Webster A
Published: June 2005

The diet of powerful owls (Ninox strenua) living at Christmas Hills, 35 km north-east of Melboume, was
examined by analysis of 686 regurgitated pellets collected over two years. Mammalian prey was found in
89%, insects in 13%, vegetation in 11% and birds in 10% of the pellets. Of the mammals, common ringtail
possums occurred most frequently in the pellets over the year. There was no seasonal difference in the
frequency of occurrences of common ringtail possums and sugar gliders in pellets. However, common
brushtail possums were more likely to be taken in spring than in the other seasons. More adult common
ringtail possums were taken as prey than were other age classes over the year, except in summer when high
numbers of young were consumed by the owls.
Food preferences and seed selection in two species of Australian desert rodent
Authors: Murray BR , Dickman CR
Published: June 2005

Food preferences of two species of Australian desert rodents, the spinifex hopping-mouse (Notomys
alexis) and the sandy inland mouse (Pseudomys hermannsburgensis), were investigated in cafeteria
trials. Both species showed strong preference for invertebrate material (a beetle, Tenebrio molitor)
over the seeds and stems of spinifex (Triodia basedowii), and fungus (Tulostoma sp.). This
contrasts with previous reports that these rodents are granivores, and suggests instead that they
may be omnivorous. Further investigation of the basis for food choice was carried out in a series
of seed preference trials, and provided some indication that the water content of food items may
underlie diet selection. We suggest that the ability of native rodents to eat a broad range of food
types, particularly invertebrates, has promoted survival in arid regions that have been subjected
to disturbance since European settlement.
An inexpensive photographic technique for identifying nest predators at active nests of birds.
Authors: Major RE , Gowing G
Published: June 2005

Change in rate of nest predation due to environmental modification is considered a major cause of
population decline of many bird species. Our ability to adequately understand and effectively manage this
effect is limited by our ability to identify the relative roles of individual nest predators. This is because nest
predation is seldom witnessed despite its high frequency. We describe and evaluate an inexpensive
photographic technique for identifying nest predators at active nests. Each camera unit (A$220) was
triggered by circuitry (A$30), using a magnetic reed switch attached to a supplementary egg. A total of 51
nests of New Holland honeyeaters (Phylidonyris novaehollandiae) was monitored with the equipment. Of
these, 39 were preyed upon. Predation was never witnessed, but predators were captured on film for 72% of
nests at which predation occurred.
Distribution and abundance of New Zealand fur seals, Arctocephalus forsteri, in South Australia and Western Australia
Authors: Shaughnessy PD , Gales NJ , Dennis TE , Goldsworthy SD
Published: June 2005

A survey to determine the distribution and abundance of New Zealand fur seals, Arctocephalus forsteri, in South Australia and Western Australia was conducted in January-March 1990. Minor surveys were conducted in the summers of 1987-88, 1988-89 and 1990-91. Although the surveys were primarily of black pups in breeding colonies, opportunity was taken to count fur seals of all age-classes, including those in non-breeding colonies. Pups were counted and, in more accessible and larger colonies, numbers of pups were estimated by a mark-recapture technique. The latter technique gave higher estimates than counting, and was considered more accurate. In South Australia, the seals extend from The Pages in Backstairs Passage to Nuyts Reef in the Great Australian Bight. In Western Australia, the range comprised islands on the south coast from the Recherche Archipelago to islands near Cape Leeuwin. There are 29 breeding localities; 13 are in South Australia and 16 in Western Australia. Eighteen of these have not been reported previously. The term ''breeding locality'' is used for aggregations of breeding colonies as well as for isolated breeding colonies. Estimates of the number of pups for the 1989-90 breeding season were 5636 in South Australia and 1429 in Western Australia. This leads to a population estimate of approximately 34600 seals in these two states (using a multiplier of 4.9). But such estimates of overall abundance must be treated cautiously as the multiplier incorporates estimates of population parameters not available for A. forsteri. Most of the population (77%) is in central South Australian waters (from Kangaroo Island to the southern end of Eyre Peninsula). With the estimate of 100 for a breeding colony in southern Tasmania, the population of New Zealand fur seals in Australia can be estimated at 34700. Historical aspects of some colonies are outlined and evidence for increases described. The largest breeding localities are at South Neptune Islands (1964 pups) and North Neptune Islands (1472). The combined Neptunes group accounts for 49% of the pup estimate for Australia. One-fifth of the pups are from colonies on Kangaroo Island and the nearby Casuarinas.