bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Seasonal and annual variations in earthworm consumption by wild boar (Sus scrofa scrofa L.)
Authors: Baubet E. , Ropert-Coudert Y. , Brandt S.
Published: August 2003

We investigated the annual and monthly patterns of earthworm consumption by wild boar in the Maurienne valley (Alps, France). A positive correlation (R2 = 0.79) was found between weather conditions and patterns of earthworm consumption. A positive correlation was also found between earthworm consumption rates and the occurence of 'worm nights', an easy and direct measure of earthworm availability.
Spring distribution of ring-necked pheasants (Phasianus colchicus) following cattail reduction with glyphosate herbicide
Authors: Homan H. J. , Linz G. M. , Carlson R. C. , Bleier W. J.
Published: August 2003

To reduce blackbird (Icteridae) damage to field crops in the north-central United States, dense stands of cattail (Typha spp.) are thinned with glyphosate herbicide. The stands become unusable as roosting and loafing sites, which helps to protect susceptible crops nearby, particularly sunflower (Helianthus annus). Landscape-level impacts of cattail management on non-target avian species have not been studied. We measured use of upland breeding territories by male ring-necked pheasants (Phasianus colchicus) following cattail reduction in wetlands used by pheasants for overwintering. In August 1992, glyphosate was applied to all wetlands with ≥�70% cattail coverage in four 23-km2 study blocks in south-eastern North Dakota. Four other blocks were used for controls. Habitat use was inferred from territorial crowing counts. No treatment effect or treatment*year interaction (all P�≥�0.05) was evident during 2 years of post-treatment observations. Although the herbicide eradicated large contiguous stands of cattail that pheasants had used for winter cover, surface water levels rose in 1993, which created additional cattail growth in untreated wetlands within the blocks. The additional cattail may have lessened the effect of the herbicide treatments. During drier periods, when cattail growth slows, cattail reduction could affect use of upland breeding sites. We recommend more research to assess the effects of glyphosate during drier periods.
Small rodents in the crop ecosystem of Pothwar Plateau, Pakistan
Authors: Hussain I. , Cheema A. M. , Khan A. A.
Published: August 2003

In a 16-month study on rodent-infestation patterns in crop fields on the Pothwar Plateau, Pakistan, five rodent species were found to occur in the following order of dominance: Tatera indica, Bandicota bengalensis, Mus spp., Golunda ellioti and Nesokia indica. On the basis of the trapping data, the first three species were considered to have pest status and their relative abundance changed from season to season. During spring, T. indica and B.�bengalensis were the dominant species. B. bengalensis became dominant in summer. The proportion of T. indica increased during the monsoon season and autumn (58.5%) and reached almost 95% during winter. Mus species were more common than B. bengalensis in the post-summer monsoon and autumn. G. ellioti and N. indica were captured occasionally, and showed no seasonal preference. As N. indica is a highly fossorial species, surface trapping is believed to have underestimated its prevalence. Unlike the other species, the population of T. indica was stable all over seasons; this appeared to be linked to its use of the wild vegetation on the field boundaries. This preliminary information highlights the need for further studies to explore the life-history traits and habitats of these rodent species.
The influence of pasture distribution, and temperature on adult body weight of feral pigs in a semi-arid environment
Authors: Dexter Nick
Published: August 2003

The influence of high temperature and the distribution and abundance of pasture on variation in adult body weight of feral pigs was examined at Nocoleche Nature Reserve, semi-arid New South Wales, over the course of a drought. The influence of the pig's sex, and the mean maximum environmental temperature and pasture biomass on the adult pig's body weight, were examined. There was no significant difference between the sexes with respect to adult body weight, with the mean adult body weight being 37.5 kg for both sexes. Adult body weight was negatively correlated with mean maximum temperature and positively correlated with pasture biomass in woodlands. The conclusion from this study is that body weight increased over the course of the study as the drought eased but showed definite seasonal increases during winter when temperatures were lowest.
Body condition and blood chemistry of agile wallabies (Macropus agilis) in the wet - dry tropics
Authors: Stirrat Simon C.
Published: August 2003

Seasonal differences in body condition, haematology and serum chemistry of agile wallabies (Macropus agilis) in the wet–dry tropics are described. The mass of wallabies caught in the dry season was lower than predicted for their body size (on the basis of leg length), indicating that they were in poorer condition in the dry season than in the wet season. Several haematology and serum chemistry values indicated that wallabies captured in the late dry season were in an early stage of undernutrition. Plasma and serum protein, serum albumin and serum urea concentrations, all indicators of recent protein intake, and packed cell volume and mean corpuscular volume were lower in the late dry season. However, the results for energy balance were inconclusive. Serum glucose concentration did not vary between seasons, while cholesterol concentration was lower and non-esterified fatty acid concentration was higher in the dry season. The wallabies foraged for a range of alternative food resources in the dry season, when preferred foods were scarce and of poorer quality. The results presented here indicate that although wallabies broadened their diet in the dry season, they were unable to maintain adequate nutritional intake to prevent loss of body condition.
Juvenile dispersal and habitat selectivity in the megapode Alectura lathami (Australian brush-turkey)
Authors: Göth Ann , Vogel Uwe
Published: August 2003

Dispersal and habitat selectivity of young precocial birds is usually determined by parents, as these lead their chicks after hatching. Megapode chicks receive no parental care and little is known about factors determining their dispersal and habitat selectivity. Here, we present such results for the Australian brush-turkey (Alectura lathami). Chicks were radio-tracked in two small remnant rainforest patches (Mary Cairncross Rainforest Park and Aplin Forest) from their second day of life and for up to 30 days. At Mary Cairncross Rainforest Park, the median dispersal distance was significantly affected by age, as it decreased from approximately 100 m on each of the first five days to around 50 m per day thereafter. At Aplin Forest, age had no significant effect on dispersal. The difference between the two sites can be explained by incorporating habitat selectivity. Chicks preferred to stay in thickets and avoided the more open rainforest, as evident from time selectivity indices calculated for both habitats. At Aplin Forest, 31% of the area was covered by thickets, such as lantana (Lantana camara) and raspberry (Rubus ssp.), whereas at Mary Cairncross Rainforest Park this proportion was only 6%. Management plans for endangered megapodes should consider the role of thickets in the chicks' dispersal behaviour, and thus in population spread, recolonisation and gene flow.
Monitoring bait removal in vertebrate pest control: a comparison using track identification and remote photography
Authors: Glen Alistair S. , Dickman Chris R.
Published: August 2003

The removal of non-toxic fox baits was monitored simultaneously using identification of tracks in sand plots and an inexpensive method of remote photography. During 1126 bait-nights carried out using both methods at sites in the central and northern tablelands of New South Wales, 106 baits were removed by a variety of target and non-target animals. Whereas the results of sand plots may be inaccurate or unreliable, particularly during poor weather conditions, remote photography provides results that are less open to misinterpretation.
Effects of bait-station design on the uptake of baits by non-target animals during control programmes for foxes and wild dogs
Authors: Glen Alistair S. , Dickman Chris R.
Published: August 2003

The removal of non-toxic baits was monitored during a simulated trail-baiting programme for foxes and wild dogs in the central tablelands of New South Wales. Ninety-one buried baits were removed by a number of species including spotted-tailed quolls, Australian brush-turkeys, superb lyrebirds, small mammals, wild dogs and a red fox. Spotted-tailed quolls were significantly less likely to remove baits buried under the ground surface than baits buried in raised mounds of soil. By means of remote photography, individual quolls were identified removing 3–4 baits in one night from bait stations 400 m apart. The results of this study show that spotted-tailed quolls and other non-target species may face substantial risk of consuming baits intended for wild dogs and foxes. However, the risk of poisoning spotted-tailed quolls may be significantly reduced by appropriate planning. Recommendations are made to increase the target-specificity of baiting programmes in areas with populations of spotted-tailed quolls.
Twinning in southern elephant seals: the implications of resource allocation by mothers
Authors: McMahon Clive R. , Hindell Mark A.
Published: August 2003

Southern elephant seals (Mirounga leonina) typically give birth to a single pup and raise it over a short 24-day lactation period. Lactation is characterised by: maternal fasting, rapid pup growth and abrupt weaning after which the weaned pups rely on stored fat for growth and survival. Females are not able to transfer all of their stored resources to their pups because they themselves need to use some to return to their remote foraging grounds after the breeding effort. Therefore the amount of energy expended by a female during lactation may affect not only the survival of her pup, but her own survival and future reproductive success. Female southern elephant seals are therefore under strong selective pressure to allocate finite amounts of resources to their pups. In the rare event of producing twins, females that wean both pups are likely to experience reduced reproductive success. Twin births accounted for 0.38% of all the observed elephant seal births at Macquarie Island in 1999. The mean birth masses, weaning lengths and lactation duration for twin and singleton pups did not differ significantly but weaning mass, weaning girths and lactation growth rates did differ significantly. In all cases, singleton pups were larger and grew faster than twin pups. Twin pups suffered greater pre-weaning mortality than singletons (16.7% and 4.6% respectively) and fewer were seen alive after 18 months (20% compared with 47% respectively).
Origins, age composition and change in numbers of moulting southern elephant seals (Mirounga leonina L.) in the Windmill Islands, Vincennes Bay, east Antarctica, 1988 - 2001
Authors: Hoff John van den , Davies Rupert , Burton Harry
Published: August 2003

We discovered that the number of male southern elephant seals (Mirounga leonina) moulting at wallow sites in the Windmill Islands, Vincennes Bay, Antarctica has decreased by 88% since the last data were presented in 1989. This figure equates to an annual decrease of 6.5%, a figure quite different to the known population trends at the islands from where the seals originate. The seals inhabited four fewer wallows in 2001 than in 1990. Brand and tag resights confirm that seals moulting at Browning Peninsula and Peterson Island originate from Macquarie Island and Heard Island. Male seals aged 1–7+ years of age were present but most (68%) were aged over 7. Males aged 4 years old began to haul out in mid-February while prior to that time only male seals older than 5 years were seen. Timing of moult for particular age classes was similar to that observed at other breeding islands. Trends in the numbers of adolescent and mature male seals hauled out at the sub-antarctic breeding locations require investigation.
Habitat preference, diet and demography of the smoky mouse, Pseudomys fumeus (Rodentia : Muridae), in south-eastern New South Wales
Authors: Ford Fred , Cockburn Andrew , Broome Linda
Published: August 2003

The smoky mouse, Pseudomys fumeus, is an endangered rodent for which ecological information is lacking across much of its range. This paper provides the first detailed study of the local diet and habitat preference of P. fumeus since 1980, conducted on the recently discovered Nullica population in New South Wales. Diet and trap-revealed movements were examined in conjunction with 18 characteristics of habitat to determine the factors influencing habitat choice. Multiple logistic regression of habitat variables and capture locations revealed a floristically determined preference for heath habitat characterised by Epacris impressa, Monotoca scoparia, Leptospermum trinervium, Xanthorrhoea spp. and a variety of legumes. Hypogeal fungi and seeds were the most common food items in the diet of P. fumeus. Fungi were most abundant in winter diet, while seeds and fruit became dominant in late spring and summer. The spring and summer preference for ridge-top heath habitats observed in this study is probably the result of this dietary preference. Resident females constituted 71% of the population in early spring. However, there was a severe decline in numbers of female mice during early spring, and resident males also disappeared from the population. Causes of the decline were unclear. Five of eleven males captured during this study were transient, while no transient females were caught. The sudden decline in the study population, combined with the patchy distribution of suitable habitat and high level of male transience, suggests that P. fumeus form a metapopulation in the Nullica region.
Management of aggressive Australian magpies by translocation
Authors: Jones Darryl N. , Nealson Thomas
Published: August 2003

Attacks on humans by Australian magpies (Gymnorhina tibicen) cause a significant human–wildlife conflict in suburban environments throughout Australia. Community opposition to lethal control methods generally has, in part, led to an increase in the use of translocation as an alternative. We assessed the effectiveness and implications of using this approach in the management of aggressive magpie in south-eastern Queensland during 1999 and 2000. A total of 968 (1999) and 707 (2000) magpies were reported by the public, of which 39–45% were able to be investigated by a two-person team working three days per week. A total of 141 magpies were translocated, 31.7% of all birds investigated. Of these, only five (3.5%) returned to the place of capture, and 22 (15.6%) were resighted elsewhere; there was no evidence of 'homing'. Only three translocated birds were subsequently reported as being aggressive towards humans. While extremely effective in reducing the conflict locally, we caution against the indiscriminate use of this method, and suggest that it be seen as one of many options available to wildlife managers.
The feeding ecology and field energetics of the Pedra Branca skink (Niveoscincus palfreymani)
Authors: Brothers Nigel , Wiltshire Alan , Pemberton David , Mooney Nick , Green Brian
Published: August 2003

The diet and food requirements of free-living Pedra Branca skinks (Niveoscincus palfreymani) were studied on Pedra Branca Island, the only known location for this vulnerable, endemic species. While discarded fish remains and regurgitate from seabirds are utilised as food by the skinks during summer, invertebrates represent the most important prey. Isotope turnover rates indicate that feeding is negligible over winter and that significant amounts of non-food water are turned over during summer, either by drinking rainwater or as pulmo-cutaneous water exchange. An assessment is made of the seasonal and annual food requirements of individual skinks and the population.
Spatial interactions and habitat use of rabbits on pasture and implications for the spread of rabbit haemorrhagic disease in New South Wales
Authors: White Piran C. L. , Newton-Cross Geraldine , Gray Michael , Ashford Roland , White Catherine , Saunders Glen
Published: August 2003

Successful control of European rabbit (Oryctolagus cuniculus) populations in Australia has been achieved with the use of disease, initially myxomatosis and more recently rabbit haemorrhagic disease (RHD). Predicting the effectiveness of disease as a control agent depends on understanding the spatial and social organisation of its host population. We radio-tracked 37 rabbits from adjacent burrow systems during May and June 1999. Surface-dwelling rabbits had larger home ranges and core areas and a higher proportion of vegetation cover in their ranges than warren-based rabbits. Interactions between rabbit dyads from the same warren showed greater range overlap than those involving rabbits from different warrens and those involving itinerants. Static interaction was high and positive for intra-warren dyads, but low and negative for inter-warren, warren–surface and surface–surface dyads. These patterns of range use and interaction behaviour create a hierarchical contact and transmission structure within the rabbit population that is likely to vary according to external factors such as population density, resource availability, season, climate and the environment. Quantifying these links between the environment and the transmission process is important to increase our understanding of RHD as an effective management tool for rabbit populations.
Evidence of target specificity in attacks by Australian magpies on humans
Authors: Warne Rowena M. , Jones Darryl N.
Published: August 2003

Although attacks on humans by Australian magpies (Gymnorhina tibicen) are a source of significant wildlife–human conflict in urban areas of Australia, little is known about the patterns of attack by these birds. Such information is essential for the development of sound management plans for this species. We examined the attack behaviour of 48 aggressive magpies from Brisbane during September–October 1999, paying particular attention to the types of intruders targeted. All attacking birds were male. A clear majority (71%) of birds attacked only one intruder type, with about half attacking pedestrians only; similar proportions targeted cyclists (8%) only and mail deliverers (10%) only. While all intruding cyclists and mail deliverers were attacked, magpies did not attack all pedestrian intruders, suggesting possible discrimination within this category. Management implications for these intruder types are discussed.
Identifying the presence of quokkas (Setonix brachyurus) and other macropods using cytochrome b analyses from faeces
Authors: Alacs Erika , Alpers Deryn , Tores Paul J. de , Dillon Mick , Spencer Peter B. S.
Published: August 2003

Non-invasive methods have the potential to circumvent problems associated with using more traditional techniques when surveying for rare and elusive species. In this study, non-invasive molecular-based methods have been used to analyse the scats of several species of marsupials. DNA was successfully extracted from scats of the quokka, Setonix brachyurus, and three other macropods (Macropus fuliginosus, M. irma and M. eugenii) sympatric with the quokka and with similar-appearing scats. Partial sequence from the mitochondrial cytochrome b gene from these four species and seven other macropods was used to measure genetic differentiation among them to determine whether the quokka could be unambiguously identified from the scats alone. The results confirm that molecular approaches can be used for macropod species identification using scats as the source material. The approach will have potential survey and management applications, and, more specifically, may lead to more accurate assessment of the quokka's geographic range, leading to implementation of more appropriate management strategies for its conservation.
Habitat requirements of the squirrel glider (Petaurus norfolcensis) and associated possums and gliders on the New South Wales central coast
Authors: Smith A. P. , Murray M.
Published: August 2003

One of the largest known populations of the threatened squirrel glider occurs in the Wyong and Lake Macquarie regions of the New South Wales central coast. A study of the habitat requirements and density of this population was undertaken as a component in a broader study to develop a regional conservation strategy for the species. The squirrel glider was found to be widespread at an estimated average density of 0.39 animals ha–1. It was most abundant in forests and woodlands with an overstorey of winter-flowering eucalypts (Corymbia maculata, Eucalyptus robusta, Eucalyptus tereticornis) or an understorey of winter-flowering banksias (Banksia spinulosa) or pinnate-leaved acacias (Acacia irrorata). The highest estimated density (0.7 ha–1) occurred in associations of scribbly gum (Eucalyptus haemastoma or racemosa), smooth-barked apple (Angophora costata) and red bloodwood (Corymbia gummifera) with an understorey of Banksia spp and Xanthorrhoea spp. The lowest estimated densities occurred in forests with an understorey dominated by casuarinas or non-pinnate acacias and in stunted, low (<17 m high) forest and woodland close to the coast. The abundance of all possums and gliders increased significantly with canopy height, canopy cover, the number of mature and old-growth trees and the number of trees with hollows. Preferred habitat of the squirrel glider in this region occurs predominantly on freehold land where it is threatened by clearing for coastal development. Implementation of planning provisions to protect squirrel glider habitat on private land will be necessary to maintain the existing regional population.
Factors determining the distribution of introduced mammals in nature reserves of the southern province, New Caledonia
Authors: Rouys Sophie , Theuerkauf Jörn
Published: August 2003

We studied the distribution of introduced mammals in six nature reserves of New Caledonia's southern province. Polynesian rats (Rattus exulans) were common in both rainforest and shrubland but their abundance decreased with increasing altitude. Ship rats (Rattus rattus) were abundant in rainforest but less numerous in shrubland and their abundance did not increase with altitude. We found no Norway rats (Rattus norvegicus) or house mice (Mus musculus domesticus) in reserves. Feral pigs (Sus scrofa) used mainly rainforest but also shrubland and preferred foraging in valleys with alluvial soils. Rusa deer (Cervus timorensis) selected shrubland over rainforest. Feral cats (Felis catus) were widely distributed in the reserves, whereas dogs (Canis familiaris) strayed into reserves but did not form feral populations.
Evaluation of secondary poisoning hazards to ferrets and weka from the rodenticide coumatetralyl
Authors: O'Connor Cheryl E. , Eason Charles T. , Endepols Stefan
Published: August 2003

We investigated the secondary poisoning hazards of the rodenticide coumatetralyl to a predatory and scavenging mammal and bird. Wistar rats, which had been poisoned with Racumin® baits containing 375 ppm coumatetralyl, were fed to 10 captive ferrets (Mustela furo) and 10 weka (Gallirallus australis) for 3 consecutive days. Nine ferrets ate 764 ± 95 g kg–1 (83% by weight) of the rat carcasses offered and two died. Weka ate 258 ± 32 g kg–1 (25% by weight) of the rat carcasses, preferring the internal organs. There were no deaths and no obvious signs of ill health in any weka. These results suggest that predatory and scavenging bird and mammal species, in general, will be placed only at comparatively low risk from secondary poisoning from coumatetralyl.
Altitudinal and temporal differences in the food of foxes (Vulpes vulpes) at alpine and subalpine altitudes in the Snowy Mountains
Authors: Green K.
Published: August 2003

The diet of foxes over three years at alpine and subalpine altitudes in the Snowy Mountains followed a cyclical change determined by seasonal climatic events that were very marked and predictable and did not allow for great variation in timing of prey availability. The diet was dominated by mammals in winter, with a change in the snow-free months to insects, mainly comprising bogong moths, with grasshoppers becoming important later in the season. Mammals preyed upon at both altitudes were mainly broad-toothed rats (Mastacomys fuscus), bush rats (Rattus fuscipes) and dusky antechinus (Antechinus swainsonii). In the alpine zone, foxes were less dependent upon the food chain deriving from in situ primary productivity than were foxes in the subalpine zone and were more reliant on other energy sources, particularly immigrant bogong moths.
Reintroduction of the greater bilby, Macrotis lagotis (Reid) (Marsupialia : Thylacomyidae), to northern South Australia: survival, ecology and notes on reintroduction protocols
Authors: Moseby K. E. , O'Donnell E.
Published: August 2003

Nine bilbies were reintroduced to a 14-km2 reserve free of rabbits, cats and foxes in South Australia in April 2000. The survival, growth and ecology of the population were studied for 17 months after release by means of radio-tracking and trapping. Reproduction was continuous over the study period, with juveniles successfully recruited into the population. Home-range size of female bilbies averaged 0.18 km2 and was significantly smaller than home ranges of males, which averaged 3.16 km2. Wild-born subadults had smaller home ranges than adults. While male home ranges, and male and female home ranges overlapped considerably, females appeared to maintain areas discrete from other adult females. Bilbies showed a significant preference for dune habitat. As swale habitat appears too hard for burrow construction and males moved greater distances from diurnal burrows than females, males are likely to access food reserves that are under-used by females. Both males and females reused at least 30% of their burrows, and females displayed long-term site fidelity. The release was considered successful and suggests that despite historical damage from rabbits and stock, bilbies are able to successfully recolonise parts of their former range in arid South Australia once rabbits, cats and foxes are removed.
Use of sap trees by the yellow-bellied glider near Maryborough in south-east Queensland
Authors: Eyre Teresa J. , Goldingay Ross L.
Published: August 2003

Identifying the tree species used in sap feeding by the yellow-bellied glider (Petaurus australis) and describing the pattern of use of these trees is fundamental to forest management in eastern and southern Australia. We conducted surveys at 74 sites across 17�000 ha in St Mary State Forest near Maryborough in south-east Queensland, during five visits over a 2-year period. We identified sap-feeding incisions of gliders on 194 trees (2% of all trees) at 47 of our survey sites, including five trees recruited as sap trees during our monitoring period. Five tree species were involved: Corymbia citriodora (100 trees at 26 sites), Eucalyptus longirostrata (73 trees at 19 sites), Eucalyptus moluccana (17 trees at 6 sites), Eucalyptus tereticornis (3 trees at 3 sites), and Angophora leiocarpa (1 tree). Of these trees, E. longirostrata was used much more than expected on the basis of its abundance in the forest. Active glider incisions were observed on 95 of the sap trees (49% of total) during the monitoring period. During our first visit, 66 sap trees showed no evidence of current or recent use (within the previous month). By the fifth visit, there were still 44 sap trees (23% of all sap trees) that showed no evidence of recent use during any visit. Approximately 40% of sap tree observations were of trees with fewer than five recently active incisions, which is currently the threshold number of incisions for tree retention during logging operations in Queensland. We used Poisson regression to assess the influence of climatic and habitat variables on the abundance of active incisions at sites with sap trees. Three variables had a significant influence on the abundance of active incisions at a site: flowering, site index (a measure of productivity) and density of ringbarked trees. Our results confirm the importance of a small number of forest trees in sap feeding and recommendations are provided to enhance prescriptions for effective management of sap food resources of yellow-bellied gliders in south-east Queensland.
Capture of koalas (Phascolarctos cinereus) by remote injection of tiletamine - zolazapam (Zoletil®) and medetomidine
Authors: Lynch Michael , Martin Roger
Published: August 2003

A combination of tiletamine–zolazapam (Zoletil®) and medetomidine delivered by remote injection was used to capture free-ranging Victorian koalas (Phascolarctos cinereus victor). The trial established that dose rates in the order of 3.5 mg kg–1 Zoletil and 55 μg kg–1 medetomidine were appropriate to capture animals in this way. Of 17 animals receiving the combination by dart and left for at least 10 min before intervention, 13 fell or could be easily pushed from the tree. The other four animals did not become sufficiently anaesthetised and were captured manually. Two animals displayed mild bradycardia and another two animals had mild respiratory depression, which were attributed to the medetomidine component of the combination. All animals recovered uneventfully with the aid of atipamezole, a specific antagonist for medetomidine.
Evaluation of line-transect sampling for estimating koala abundance in the Pine Rivers Shire, south-east Queensland
Authors: Dique David S. , Villiers Deidré L. de , Preece Harriet J.
Published: August 2003

Distance sampling using line transects has not been previously used or tested for estimating koala abundance. In July 2001, a pilot survey was conducted to compare the use of line transects with strip transects for estimating koala abundance. Both methods provided a similar estimate of density. On the basis of the results of the pilot survey, the distribution and abundance of koalas in the Pine Rivers Shire, south-east Queensland, was determined using line-transect sampling. In total, 134 lines (length 64 km) were used to sample bushland areas. Eighty-two independent koalas were sighted. Analysis of the frequency distribution of sighting distances using the software program DISTANCE enabled a global detection function to be estimated for survey sites in bushland areas across the Shire. Abundance in urban parts of the Shire was estimated from densities obtained from total counts at eight urban sites that ranged from 26 to 51 ha in size. Koala abundance in the Pine Rivers Shire was estimated at 4584 (95% confidence interval, 4040–5247). Line-transect sampling is a useful method for estimating koala abundance provided experienced koala observers are used when conducting surveys.
Dispersal patterns in a regional koala population in south-east Queensland
Authors: Dique David S. , Thompson Jim , Preece Harriet J. , Villiers Deidré L. de , Carrick Frank N.
Published: August 2003

Koala dispersal was investigated as part of a detailed ecological study of a nationally significant koala population located 20 km south-east of Brisbane, Queensland. From 1996 to 2000, 195 koalas from three sites were captured and fitted with radio-collars. A total of 40 koalas (23 males and 17 females) dispersed from these sites. Most (93%) dispersing individuals were 20–36 months of age. Three adult females (more than 36 months old) dispersed and no adult males dispersed during the study. A significantly higher proportion of young males dispersed than females. Dispersal occurred between June and December, with most dispersal of males commencing in July and August and that of females commencing between September and November prior to, and early in, the annual breeding season. The mean straight-line distance between the natal and breeding home ranges for males and females was similar and was measured at 3.5 km (range 1.1–9.7 km) and 3.4 km (range 0.3–10.6 km) respectively. Dispersing males and females tended to successfully disperse south and west of their natal home ranges and were generally unable to successfully disperse to urban areas within the study area, as a high proportion of the mortality of dispersing koalas was associated with attacks by domestic dogs and with collisions with vehicles on roads. Information from other studies indicates that most young koalas disperse from their natal areas. It is likely that the social behaviour and mating systems of koala populations provide mechanisms for young koalas to disperse. The potential role of dispersal in the dynamics of regional koala populations is discussed.
Redefining introgressed protected mammals: when is a wildcat a wild cat and a dingo a wild dog?
Authors: Daniels Mike J. , Corbett Laurie
Published: August 2003

Interbreeding between protected species and their domestic forms presents a conundrum for wildlife managers and legislators with respect to both defining the taxa concerned and enacting or enforcing conservation measures. Recent research on two species geographically distant but with highly analogous histories, the wildcat (Felis silvestris) in Scotland and the dingo (Canis lupus dingo) in Australia, illustrates the challenges faced. Introgression has left the contemporary wild form of both species difficult to distinguish from many of their domesticated forms. Furthermore, historical definitions, and the protective legislation based on them, have been rendered obsolete by subsequent anthropogenic environmental change. We argue that a new approach is necessary for defining mammalian species in the face of introgression with their domestic forms and environmental change, including persecution. Protecting animals for where and how they live, and for their cultural or ecosystem function value rather than focusing on their appearance, offers the best solution for maintaining their conservation status.
The use of nest boxes by arboreal marsupials in the forests of the Central Highlands of Victoria
Authors: Lindenmayer D. B. , MacGregor C. I. , Cunningham R. B. , Incoll R. D. , Crane M. , Rawlins D. , Michael D. R.
Published: August 2003

The results are reported of a nest-box study conducted in two locations in the mountain ash (Eucalyptus regnans) forests of the Central Highlands of Victoria (south-eastern Australia) to compare usage of different nest-box designs located at different heights in trees. A total of 96 nest boxes was established using a rigorous experimental design – two regions (Powelltown and Toolangi State Forests), two forest age classes (20-year post-logging regrowth and 60-year fire- and salvage-logging regrowth), two nest-box designs (large boxes with large entrance holes and small boxes with small entrance holes), and two heights at which nest boxes were attached to trees (3 m and 8 m above the ground). The study entailed setting out four nest boxes at each of 24 sites to meet the design criteria. Evidence of occupancy by vertebrates was recorded in a total of 19 of 96 boxes on 11 of 24 sites site during regular inspections over more than three years. Thirteen boxes were used by Leadbeater's possum (Gymnobelideus leadbeateri), six by the mountain brushtail possum (Trichosurus cunninghami) and seven by the common ringtail possum (Pseudocheirus peregrinus). The common ringtail possum and mountain brushtail possum were seen only in high–large boxes but Leadbeater's possum used all but the low–large boxes. There was evidence of spatial dependence in usage patterns, with all four boxes at a given site showing signs of eventually being occupied. Only two nest boxes located in mountain ash forest regenerating after the 1939 wildfires were occupied. Relatively limited use of nest boxes supports concerns about the use of a nest box over large scales and long timeframes as an effective recovery tool for species threatened by the loss and subsequent shortage in the numbers of naturally occurring hollows.
Effects of motorised boat passes on the time budgets of New Zealand dabchick, Poliocephalus rufopectus
Authors: Bright Ashleigh , Reynolds Gavin R. , Innes John , Waas Joseph R.
Published: August 2003

New Zealand dabchicks, Poliocephalus rufopectus, are small grebes restricted to the North Island of New Zealand; with a total population of only ~1200–1500 birds, they are classed as endangered. We conducted experiments to examine the effects of boat passes of different speeds and frequencies on the time budgets of the New Zealand dabchick. We also examined whether New Zealand dabchicks became habituated to boat passes. We found that a single boat pass caused a significant short-term change in New Zealand dabchick behaviour compared with pre–boat pass patterns. This change in behaviour was more pronounced when the frequency of boat passes was higher, and may impose energetic constraints on New Zealand dabchicks. Differences between behaviour before and after the boat pass were no longer evident 15 minutes after the boat pass. We found no significant effects of boat speed (5 v. 10 knots) on the behaviour of New Zealand dabchicks. There was evidence of habituation to boat traffic in high-use recreational sites. Further studies are required to investigate the influence of other human activities and the influence that boat and wave wash have on the nesting and breeding success of the New Zealand dabchick.
Fertility control in the koala, Phascolarctos cinereus: the impact of slow-release implants containing levonorgestrel or oestradiol on the production of pouch young
Authors: Middleton David R. , Walters Bryan , Menkhorst Peter , Wright Patrick
Published: August 2003

Two hormone-based fertility-control treatments were trialed on free-ranging female koalas. Either levonorgestrel or oestradiol-17β was administered in a cylindrical, silastic, sub-dermal implant. Levonorgestrel was administered in a commercially produced implant (Norplant 2, Leiras). Two different doses of oestradiol were administered via custom-made implants of different length (1 cm and 0.5 cm). Treatments were randomly applied to 58 females (each koala receiving a single implant) and a control group of 27 female koalas received no implant. Fertility, as determined by the presence of pouch young, was recorded following capture and examination during June 1998, 1999, 2000 and 2001. Fertility was reduced in all treatment groups but remained high (90%) in the untreated group. Fertility was lowest in koalas that received levonorgestrel (0%) and longer oestradiol implants (5%). The results demonstrate that slow-release implants containing either of these two steroid hormones have the ability to significantly lower fertility of wild koalas for at least four breeding seasons following treatment. No adverse side effects were apparent in any of the treated individuals. Compared with the cost of current management strategies for over-abundant koala populations, their deployment on a large scale should be cost-effective.
Do yellow-faced honeyeater (Lichenostomus chrysops) nests experience higher predation at forest edges?
Authors: Boulton Rebecca L. , Clarke Michael F.
Published: August 2003

We tested the hypothesis that predation rates increase near habitat edges and can cause low reproductive success in forest bird species living in a fragmented habitat. We constructed artificial yellow-faced honeyeater (Lichenostomus chrysops) nests and placed them 5 m, 20 m, 50 m and 200 m from the forest edge. We also monitored natural yellow-faced honeyeater nests at varying distances from the forest edge. Artificial nests experienced 43% predation over the 14-day exposure period, while natural yellow-faced honeyeater nests experienced 28% during the incubation period and 47% during the nestling period. No negative edge effect was detected for artificial or natural nests. In fact, natural nests experienced higher nest success closer to the forest edge. There was no increase in the number of avian predators recorded at the forest edge, even though birds were identified as the main predators at artificial nests (49%). The lack of support for both the 'ecological trap' and 'predator influx' hypotheses contributes to a growing body of evidence that suggests that not all species surviving in highly fragmented environments are negatively affected by edge effects.
Factors associated with fox (Vulpes vulpes) predation of lambs in Britain
Authors: Moberly Rebecca L. , White Piran C. L. , Webbon Charlotte C. , Baker Philip J. , Harris Stephen
Published: August 2003

Red foxes (Vulpes vulpes) are believed to have an economic impact on farming through predation on lambs, poultry and game. Investigation of the causes behind variation in the impact of predation between farms is required to improve management of these problems. A questionnaire survey of sheep farmers was combined with field data on relative fox population abundance to investigate some of the factors associated with both the occurrence and scale of perceived fox predation in Britain. Reported lamb losses to foxes were generally low but there was a large range in perceived levels of predation, from 0.0008 to 0.26 lambs per ewe, with 59% of respondents reporting that they had lost at least one lamb to a fox at their most recent lambing. Flock size was an important factor determining perceived fox predation. Fox predation was more likely to have occurred on larger farms, but, when it did, fewer lambs were perceived lost per ewe. Various other non-management characteristics, including regional location, had an influence on fox predation. Fox abundance was positively associated with perceived predation. Indoor lambing was an important preventive measure against fox predation. However, the effect of fox control on livestock predation was difficult to determine because of potential reactive behaviour by farmers to lamb losses. The analyses indicate that multivariate rather than univariate techniques should be used in the assessment of predator impacts and in making management recommendations. The identification of farm characteristics associated with fox predation, such as location and indoor lambing, enables the potential identification of problem farms where preventive management should be targeted.
Frog ecology in modified Australian landscapes: a review
Authors: Hazell Donna
Published: August 2003

Frog decline in Australia has often occurred where habitat is relatively intact. Habitat alteration and loss do, however, threaten many species. Widespread degradation of aquatic and terrestrial systems has occurred since European settlement, with only 6.4% of Australia's landmass reserved for conservation. But what do we know about how frogs use modified Australian landscapes? Do wildlife managers have the information required to ensure that frog habitat is considered in the management and revegetation of these areas? This review examines published Australian research on frogs to determine knowledge on processes of habitat loss and degradation. Literature that informs landscape restoration and revegetation is also examined to determine whether the habitat needs of frogs are considered. While many threats associated with frog habitat loss and change have been identified there is little quantitative information on frog–habitat relationships in modified landscapes, habitat fragmentation or knowledge of the connectivity required between terrestrial and aquatic frog habitat. Without this information frogs have largely been ignored in efforts to revegetate and manage for the conservation of Australian biota outside reserves. Ecological frog research in modified landscapes is required to avoid land-management decisions and conservation strategies based on inappropriate assumptions of how biota respond to landscape change.
Remote collection of animal DNA and its applications in conservation management and understanding the population biology of rare and cryptic species
Authors: Piggott Maxine P. , Taylor Andrea C.
Published: August 2003

Obtaining useful information about elusive or endangered species can be logistically difficult, particularly if relying entirely on field signs such as hair, feathers or faeces. However, recent developments in molecular technology add substantially to the utility of such 'non-invasive' samples, which provide a source of DNA that can be used to identify not only species but also individuals and their gender. This provides great potential to improve the accuracy of abundance estimates and determine behavioural parameters, such as home-range size, individual habitat and dietary preferences, and even some forms of social interaction. Non-invasive samples can also be a useful alternative to blood or tissue samples (the collection of which traditionally has required trapping of animals) as genetic material for applications such as relatedness, population genetic and phylogenetic analyses. Despite the huge potential of non-invasive genetic sampling, the current technology does have limitations. The low quantity and quality of DNA often obtained from such sources results in an increased risk of genotyping errors, which may lead to incorrect inferences, particularly false identification of individuals. Appropriate precautions and pilot studies are required to minimise these risks, and in some cases it may be wise to employ traditional methods when they are adequate.
Does fox baiting threaten the spotted-tailed quoll, Dasyurus maculatus?
Authors: Körtner Gerhard , Gresser Shaan , Harden Bob
Published: August 2003

In Australia, baiting with 1080 (sodium fluoroacetate) is widely used to reduce predation of native wildlife by the red fox. However, such control programs may place some native carnivores at risk, particularly the spotted-tailed quoll in eastern Australia. We measured the mortality in a total of 57 quolls fitted with mortality radio-transmitters during four experimental fox baitings with Foxoff® 1080 baits containing Rhodamine B in north-east New South Wales. In all experiments quolls visited bait stations regularly and removed a total of 20 baits. All but one of these baits was found in the vicinity of the bait station, indicating that quolls did not ingest baits. This was confirmed by the absence of Rhodamine B in the vibrissae of all quolls retrapped after baiting. The only quoll that may have died from a bait had eaten a cached bait some six weeks after baiting concluded. Thus, baiting did not threaten any of the quoll populations sampled. Therefore it appears that most restrictions imposed to protect spotted-tailed quolls during fox baiting are unnecessary as long as this bait type is used.
Population size, breeding habitat and nest site distribution of little penguins (Eudyptula minor) on Montague Island, New South Wales
Authors: Weerheim Marieke S. , Klomp Nicholas I. , Brunsting Arend M. H. , Komdeur Jan
Published: August 2003

The distribution of little penguin nest sites on Montague Island, New South Wales, was examined in relation to vegetation type, distance to landing sites and local footpaths. Nest site density was negatively correlated with distance to landing sites and positively correlated with distance to footpaths. The latter may be related to disturbance. Comparisons with the transect data of previous years showed a significant shift in nest distribution away from areas dominated by dense kikuyu grass. In October 2000, the little penguin population on Montague Island was estimated at 5000 breeding pairs. However, repeat surveys in November and December showed that single counts underestimate the actual size of the breeding population. This study has demonstrated the value of line transects to examine the relationship between little penguins and their breeding habitat. Transect surveys on Montague Island should continue in future years to monitor the effects of ongoing vegetation changes on nest distribution and population size.