bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Trophic interactions in two northern wolf-ungulate systems
Authors: Messier F
Published: June 2005

Four population models for northern ungulates are formulated based on specific regulatory mechanisms:
FOOD model, PREDATION-FOOD one-state model, PREDATION-FOOD two-state model and
PREDATION model. In this paper I contrast the dynamics of the North American moose (Alces alces), a
non-migrant ungulate, with the dynamics of the barren-ground caribou (Rangifer tarandus), a migrant
ungulate. Predation by the grey wolf (Canis lupus) and by bears (Ursus arctos and U. americanus) is
considered.
Moose densities in North America are generally below 0.5 animals km-*2. In most areas,
density-dependent food exploitation seems to operate at densities greater than 1.0 moose km-*2.
Results from 27 studies were used to assess the functional and numerical responses of wolves to changing
moose density. Per capita killing rate and wolf density were related (P = 0.01) to moose density following a
Type I1 response. Wolf predation rate proved to be density dependent from 0 to 0.65 moose km", and
inversely density dependent at higher moose densities. An empirical model based on these results suggests
that moose would stabilise at high densities in the absence of predators (FOOD model) or in the presence of
wolves only (PREDATION-FOOD one-state model). If moose productivity level is diminished through
deteriorating habitat quality, or if bear predation is added, then a low-density equilibrium (0.2-0.4 moose
km*2) is predicted (PREDATION model).
The demography of the George River caribou herd in northern QukbecILabrador is reviewed for the
period 1955-93. The herd increased from 5000 animals in 1955 to 644000 (c. 1.5 animals km-*2) in 1984,
following an exponential growth rate (r) of 0.16. The herd reached a plateau of c. 725 000 animals in early
1990. A decline is predicted for the near future because of severe habitat degradation. In the 1980s,
nutritional stress has been documented, especially in summer when caribou used traditional ranges depleted
of key forage resources such as lichens and tundra shrubs. Food competition is viewed as the dominant
regulatory factor (FOOD model), although the nature of caribou-habitat interactions may generate longterm
fluctuations in numbers because of a time-delay effect. Wolf predation does not appear to be an
important mortality factor capable of regulating the George River herd.
The above case studies can be interpreted within the context of the 'food chain dynamics' theory. For
the non-migrant ungulate (moose), a three-link system is proposed where predators hold down grazers,
which in turn use only a small fraction of annual forage production. For the migrant ungulate (caribou), a
two-link system is proposed where high-density grazers exert a strong regulatory control on plant
productivity and where predators have minimal effect on grazers.
The Effectiveness of Hunting Dogs for Removing Feral Pigs (Sus Scrofa).
Authors: Caley P , Ottley B
Published: June 2005

The effectiveness of a small team of hunting dogs for removing feral pigs was examined in
relation to group size of feral pigs encountered and the population density of pigs being hunted.
Hunting dogs were successful on 88% of occasions of catching or cornering solitary pigs when
encountered. This rate of success rapidly declined as the group size of encountered pigs increased,
with the mean maximum number of pigs that could be caught or cornered in any one encounter
estimated to be about one pig per dog. The sex ratio of mature pigs obtained from a hunted
sample showed a significant bias ( X*2 = 4.3,d.f. = 1, P< 0.05) towards catching more males
(M: F = 1.6: 1.0). One team of hunting dogs removed 22 of an estimated 79 pigs inhabiting a
94-km*2 area at a rate of 0.6 pigs h-*1 in 35 h of hunting. It is concluded that hunting with dogs
is an effective way for removing residual pigs after densities have been reduced by other forms
of control.
Survival of adult and nestling western lon-billed corellas, Cacatua pastinator, and Major Mitchell cockatoos, C. leadbeateri, in the wheatbelt of western Australia
Authors: Smith GT , Rowley ICR
Published: June 2005

The western long-billed corella, Cacatua pastinator, and the Major Mitchell cockatoo, C. leadbeateri, were studied in the central wheatbelt of Western Australia from 1977 to 1983. Nestling and breeding adult birds were individually marked with patagial tags and their survival was calculated from resighting of tagged birds. Mean annual survival of adult male and female western long-billed corellas and Major Mitchell cockatoos were 94.2%, 93.2%, 92.9% and 81.3%, respectively. Survival of immature birds was less than that of adults and only 9% of male and 23% of female western long-billed corellas survived to age of first breeding at three and five years, respectively; 20% of male and 31% of female Major Mitchell cockatoos survived to age of first breeding at two and three years, respectively. The use of patagial tags had no significant effect on the survival of adult birds; the situation with immature birds is less certain, but the data suggest that any effect was small. Dispersal had only a slight negative effect on 'survival' of immature Major Mitchell cockatoos. The lower survival of immature birds was attributed to increased predation while in the locally nomadic immature flocks. Data on survival and productivity suggest that the populations should be stable or slowly increasing and this is in agreement with the data on the populations.
Modelling the impact of predation on reintroductions of bridled nailtail wallabies.
Authors: McCallum H , Timmers P , Hoyle.S .
Published: June 2005

Predation by introduced foxes and cats is generally thought to be the main reason for the poor success rate of macropod reintroductions on the Australian mainland. Predator-prey theory suggests that predation may have particularly severe impacts on very small populations, especially if a more common primary prey species is present (such as the rabbit). Thus, a sufficiently large reintroduction may overcome predation and succeed where a smaller one would fail. The minimum viable population would, however, be much larger than that predicted by standard population-viability analysis. We use a simple stochastic model based upon the bridled nailtail wallaby to explore this possibility. Even very small amounts of predation (2-4 individuals per six months) can be sufficient to cause reintroductions of up to 50 animals to fail. No clear threshold population size beyond which reintroductions will succeed is evident and, for a given mean, the probability distribution of predation has a very limited impact on the success of reintroductions. In almost all circumstances, a single reintroduction of a given size is preferable to multiple reintroductions of the same total number of individuals.
The reproductive biology of the helmeted honeyeater, Lichenostomus melanops cassidix
Authors: Franklin DC , Smales IJ , Miller MA , Menkhorst PW
Published: June 2005

The reproductive biology of the critically endangered helmeted honeyeater was documented in and near the Yellingbo State Nature Reserve, Victoria, from 1984 to 1993. The population bred in pairs, sometimes with helpers. Females did most of the nest construction, incubation and brooding; both parents fed the young and males more often defended the nest. Nests were cup-shaped and placed in shrub thickets, or less commonly in reedbeds, ferns or eucalypt foliage. In all, 91% of clutches were of two eggs. Young fledged from 33% of nests, estimated by the Mayfield method. Predation was the main cause of nest failure, with adverse weather also a significant contributor. Post-fledging survival was high. Juveniles were substantially independent by the sixth week after hatching. The helmeted honeyeater was markedly multi-brooded, with re-nesting usually occurring rapidly after both failure and success. The commitment by individual pairs of helmeted honeyeaters to reproduction can extend to a predictable 70% of the year. This level of commitment is probably facilitated by their sedentary, territorial nature and the moisture-stable environment occupied. Reproductive performance does not limit the helmeted honeyeater population.
Bats of a semi-arid environment in south-eastern Australia: biogeography, ecology and conservation
Authors: Lumsden IF , Bennet AF
Published: June 2005

A total of 2075 captures of 11 taxa of bats was recorded during an extensive survey of the vertebrate fauna of the semi-arid Mallee region of Victoria. A further two species, Pteropus scapulatus and Saccolaimus flaviventris, are known from previous records, thus bringing the total to 13 taxa known from the region. There was a marked seasonality in activity patterns and in reproduction. Activity, as revealed by trap captures, peaked over the spring to early autumn months when daytime temperatures are high and nights are mild. Births occurred from October to December, lactating females were recorded from November to February, and juveniles were trapped between December and late February, with minor variation in timing between species. Morphometric measurements revealed that females were generally larger and heavier than males. There was a high level of overlap of species between broad vegetation types. Woodland habitats, especially Riverine Woodland, tended to have a higher frequency of capture and a greater species richness of bats per trapping event than did Mallee Shrubland.
The assemblage of bats in the Mallee region, Victoria, like those in other semi-arid regions of southern Australia, includes species that are widespread in Australia (e.g. Chalinolobus gouldii and Nyctophilus geoffroyi), together with species that primarily occur in semi-arid and arid environments (e.g. N. timoriensis, Scotorepens balstoni and Vespadelus baverstocki). This region, which includes mesic riverine habitats, also supports a group of species that are characteristic of temperate south-eastern Australia (e.g. C. morio, V. regulus and V. vulturnus). In comparison with assemblages from temperate and tropical environmental regions, those from the semi-arid region tend to have a lower species richness with fewer families represented, a higher level of insectivory, and a smaller modal body size. The conservation status of bats from the Mallee region, Victoria, is believed to be secure, although the status of N. timoriensis warrants further attention.
NEsting by the hawsbill turtle (Eretmochelys imbricata) on Milman Island, Great Barrier Reef, Australia
Authors: Loop KA , Miller JD , Limpus CJ
Published: June 2005

Nesting biology of hawksbill sea turtles (Eretmochelys imbricata) is described with morphometric and meristic measurements collected from 365 turtles over 76 nights of beach patrols on Milman I. The nesting season was already in progress when the study began in January and continued after the research team left in March 1991. Average renesting interval was 14.2 days, and the hawksbill turtles laid an average of 2.6 clutches during the study period. Nest sites were located most commonly under trees (67.2%). Average
curved carapace length was 81.7 cm, width was 70.6 cm, and weight after laying was 50.3 kg. Mean clutch size was 124 eggs. Eggs had an average diameter of 3.48 cm and an average weight of 25.7 g. Emergence success rate was 79.9% for hawksbill hatchlings, which had an average straight carapace length of 3.96 cm and weight of 13.3 g. Incubation temperatures were monitored and sex ratios determined in four clutches, two in shaded and two in unshaded sand. The sexes of 25 hatchlings from each clutch were identified. Two unshaded clutches produced 92% and 100% female hatchlings while two shaded clutches produced 64% and 44% female hatchlings. Statistical differences were not found between the presented hawksbill turtle curved carapace length, weight after laying and clutch size and those collected elsewhere in Queensland by
earlier studies.
Studies of the Ground-Dwelling Mammals of Eucalypt Forests in South-Eastern New South Wales: the Effect of Habitat Variables on Distribution and Abundance.
Authors: Catling PC , Burt RJ
Published: June 2005

The distribution and abundance was studied of ground-dwelling mammals in 13 areas within 500 000 ha of eucalypt (Eucalyptus spp.) forest in south-eastern New South Wales. Data are presented on the relative abundance and distribution of mammals in relation to the complexity of the habitat of the vegetation communities, basal area of the trees, and indices of nutrients in the foliage of the trees.
Spatial Organisation of Urban Feral Cats (Felis Catus) in Jerusalem.
Authors: Mirmovitch V
Published: June 2005

Feral cats were studied for 10 months in a residential area in Jerusalem and their spatial distribution compared during two 1-month periods, the first in the autumn prior to the mating season and the second during the mating season (winter). Cat locations were recorded by direct observations, and home-range sizes were calculated with the minimum convex polygon method. No significant change in home-range size of adult males or females was found between the 2 periods. Young males expanded their home ranges considerably during their first mating season. Home ranges of males were significantly larger than those of females in both periods (0.56 and 0.30 ha, respectively, in autumn; 0.75 and 0.27 ha in winter). The home ranges of both sexes overlapped considerably with individuals of the same sex. Overlap among home ranges of females indicated a group pattern. High overlap (80%) was found among females that fed from the same set of garbage bins with similar frequency. Lower overlap (20%) was found between individual females that shared only a subset of their food resources and used it with different frequency. It is suggested that the distribution of food patches (garbage bins), the amount of food available and the rate of food renewal determined the cats' spatial organisation.
The Parasites Recorded From Trichosurus Species (Marsupialia: Phalangeridae).
Authors: Viggers KL , Spratt DM
Published: June 2005

This review outlines the known endoparasites and ectoparasites of the brushtail possums Trichosurus vulpecula and T. caninus in Australia and T. vulpecula in New Zealand. Associated gross and histopathological changes in the host as a result of parasite infection are also described. Protozoan, cestode and nematode endoparasites have been found in both T. vulpecula (4 protozoa, one cestode and 25 nematodes) and T. caninus (2 protozoa, one cestode and 8 nematodes). The trematode Fasciola hepatica has been recorded only from T. vulpecula, in which it is associated with extensive pathological changes in the liver. Numerous species of fleas, ticks and mites occur on T. caninus (one flea, 4 ticks and 9 mites) and T. vulpecula (7 fleas, 11 ticks and 18 mites) in Australia, but only mites (4 species) occur on T. vulpecula in New Zealand. The only parasite with an indirect life cycle that occurs in T. vulpecula in New Zealand is the cestode Bertiella trichosuri. Other parasites that require intermediate hosts to complete their life cycle are absent. Further studies are required to investigate the effects of parasites on the health and fecundity of T. vulpecula and T. caninus in Australia to determine their potential as direct or indirect agents for the biological control of T. vulpecula in New Zealand.
Wildlife of Lancewood (Acacia Shirleyi) Thickets and Woodlands in Northern Australia. 2. Comparisons With Other Environments of the Region (Acacia Woodlands, Eucalyptus Savanna Woodlands and Monsoon Rainforests).
Authors: Woinarski JCZ , Fisher A
Published: June 2005

Embedded in the extensive Eucalyptus open forests and savanna woodlands that dominate the northern Australian landscape are patches of monsoon rain forest and Acacia thickets and woodlands. In this paper, the vertebrate species composition of patches of lancewood (Acacia shirleyi) thickets and woodlands of the Northern Territory was compared with that of other environments of this region: pindan woodlands (A. eriopoda and A. tumida), gidgee woodlands (A. georginae), patches of monsoon rain forests and the extensive Eucalyptus open forests and woodlands. The vertebrate fauna of lancewood thickets is distinct for that of Eucalyptus open forests, and has fewer species. Differences in species composition and richness are associated with substantial differences in resource availability, with lancewood thickets having far less grass cover (and hence relatively few granivorous birds and rodents, but more ground-feeding insectivorous and omnivorous birds), fewer nectar-bearing flowers (and hence fewer nectarivorous birds) and lower structural and floristic diversity than Eucalyptus forests. There was little difference in species richness or total abundance between the three types of Acacia woodlands sampled. Lancewood thickets had fewer species than monsoon rain forests to coastal dry monsoon rain forests to inland dry monsoon rain forests to lancewood thickets to pindan woodlands to gidgee woodlands, in accord with the pronounced rainfall gradient of this region and with canopy cover and height. Within this broad continuum the three Acacia woodlands were most closely grouped. Species turnover along this gradient consisted of substantial decrease or loss of some foraging groups (e.g. frugivorous birds) or replacement of species within broad foraging groups. The faunal relationship of the monsoon rain forests and Acacia communities provides some support for considering these fire-sensitive environments as fragments of a formerly extensive continuum. Three species (Pomatostomus temporalis, Struthidea cinerea and Melanodryas cucullata), all ground-foraging insectivorous or omnivorous birds, were significantly associated with lancewood in this region, but all three have extensive ranges beyond this area.
A method for predicting the spatial distribution of arboreal marsupials
Authors: Lindenmayer DB , Ritman K , Cunningham RB , Smith JBD , Horvath D
Published: June 2005

A method is described for predicting the spatial distribution of arboreal marsupials. The approach is
demonstrated using a statistical habitat association model for the greater glider (Petauroides volans),
developed in the mountain ash (Eucalyptus regnans) forests of the central highlands of Victoria. The
method is applied to predict the spatial distribution of P. volans in the Ada Forest Block, using forestinventory
data on the values of the two significant variables in the statistical model (the age of a stand of
forest and the abundance of large trees with hollows in a 3-ha area). The application of the model enabled
values for the estimated probability of occurrence of P, volans (with a 95% confidence interval) to be
generated for each of approximately 2200 3-ha pixels in the Ada Forest Block. A kernel smoothing
procedure was then applied to allow for the spatial dependence implicit in these data. The standard
measures of statistical uncertainty employed in our analysis revealed substantial variation in the predicted
probability of occurrence of P. volans, even though the terms in the statistical relationship were highly
significant. However, whilst the model is unable to reliably predict the occurrence of
P. volans at any given 3-ha site, tests of the performance of the model showed that it performed well when
the results of field surveys were aggregated over many sites. The results of our analysis emphasise the
importance of including measures of uncertainty in spatial predictions generated from statistical models.
A Simple Rapid Bioassay for Compound 1080 (Sodium Fluoroacetate) in Bait Materials and Soil-Its Technique and Applications.
Authors: Wong DH , Kinnear JE , Runham CF
Published: June 2005

A simple rapid microbial bioassay for sodium fluoroacetate (Compound 1080) in biological materials and
soil is described. The technique measures 1080 directly and only requires basic microbiological laboratory
facilities and equipment. It greatly simplfies the analyses of 1080 in bait materials such as oat grains and
meat. Some suggested applications of the bioassay are quality control of manufactured baits, the
measurement of the toxic lifespan of baits exposed to a range of environmental conditions in the field, and
the design and evaluation of new bait types.
Assessing visibility bias associated with helicopter counts of feral pigs in Australia's semi-arid rangelands
Authors: Choquenot D
Published: June 2005

Aerial survey is a rapid technique for obtaining information about the abundance and distribution of feral
pigs. To obtain estimates of actual pig abundance from such surveys, visibility bias associated with counts
of pig groups must be estimated and accounted for. A double-count survey technique was used to estimate
habitat-specific visibility bias associated with counts of pigs obtained from standardised helicopter surveys
conducted in the semi-arid rangelands. Visibility bias differed significantly between riverine black-soil
floodplains and non-riverine habitats, suggesting that at least two visibility-bias correction factors (3.61 and
1.47,respectively) were needed to derive absolute estimates of abundance from observed counts. The
density of pigs was reduced experimentally on six sites by helicopter shooting or trapping to (1) evaluate
the effect of helicopter shooting on visibility bias during subsequent helicopter surveys, and (2) provide
further information on visibility bias associated with black-soil floodplain habitat. The experiments
indicated no effect of helicopter shooting on visibility bias. However, a significant positive relationship
between percentage cover of black-soil floodplain and visibility bias on study sites used for removal
experiments suggests that estimates of visibility bias for this habitat derived from double-count surveys
may be underestimates.
The distribution of the southern brown bandicoot (Isoodon obesulus obesulus) in South Australia
Authors: Paull D
Published: June 2005

This paper describes the South Australian distribution of the southern brown bandicoot (Isoodon obesulus
obesulus) on the basis of records of its past occurrence and field surveys undertaken to determine its present
distribution. Since European settlement I. o. obesulus has been recorded from four separate regions of the
state: the Mount Lofty Ranges, the South East, Kangaroo Island and Eyre Peninsula. Subfossil remains
show that I. o. obesulus also once occurred on Yorke Peninsula but there is no evidence that it has existed
there in modem times. Field surveys conducted between 1986 and 1993 confirmed that I. o. obesulus still
exists in the Mount Lofty Ranges, the South East and on Kangaroo Island. Its status on Eyre Peninsula is
uncertain.
Isoodon o. obesulus is vulnerable in the South East and Mount Lofty Ranges because of habitat
fragmentation and predation by feral carnivores. The Kangaroo Island population is less threatened as large
areas of habitat have been preserved and the fox (Vulpes vulpes) has not been introduced. The area of
potential bandicoot habitat remaining in these three regions totals approximately 190 000 ha, most of which
is already managed for nature conservation. This habitat is highly fragmented, occurring as small remnant
patches of native vegetation separated by extensive tracts of cleared and modified land cover. The
implications of this habitat configuration for the long-term survival of I. o. obesulus are discussed.
The status of Gould's petrel, Pterodroma leucoptera leucoptera, on Cabbage Tree Island, New South Wales
Authors: Priddel D , Carlile N , Davey C , Fullagar P
Published: June 2005

Gould's petrel, Pterodroma leucoptera leucoptera, breeds only on Cabbage Tree Island, New South Wales.
Annual surveys to estimate the size of the breeding population and the reproductive output were conducted
between 1989 and 1992. Annual estimates of the total number of pairs breeding in the two gullies
containing the main population were between 122 +/- 20 (s.e.) and 202 +/- 26. Breeding success was less than
20% between 1989 and 1991, but rose to 24.7% in 1992. This marginal improvement may be the result of
management action undertaken to reduce mortality of breeding adults and fledglings. The total population is
estimated to have declined from 2004 (95% confidence limits: 1464,3185) in 1970 to 1479 (1250,1815) in
1992, a decline of 26% in 22 years. The reasons for this decline are unclear.
Population dynamics of, and habitat use by, Austrlian native rodents in wet sclerophyll forest, Tasmania I. Rattus lutreolus velutinus (Rodentia : Muridae)
Authors: Monamy V
Published: June 2005

A local population of velvet-furred rats, Rattus lutreolus velutinus, was studied for 15 months in wet
sclerophyll forest in south-eastem Tasmania using mark-recapture techniques. Individuals in the trappable
population were readily caught with 90% of captures being recaptures (73 individuals caught 706 times).
During winter and the summer breeding season, all individuals had an equal likelihood of recapture,
irrespective of sex, age, season or previous capture history.
Habitat use was investigated by analysing floristic and structural variation within a 4-ha trapping grid
using TWINSPAN. Four heterogeneous habitat groups were defined and population data are compared
among these groups. Areas of densest ground cover were preferred by R. 1. velutinus; open areas were
avoided. Throughout the study, female rats were captured in the areas with most cover to 50 cm in height;
during winter, males were caught in areas of the trapping grid with more sparse ground cover, in lower
numbers than females. At the onset of breeding in summer, numerous males were captured in the areas of
thickest ground cover occupied by females. These data are discussed in relation to social spacing, habitat
utilisation and female choice.
Studies of the Ground-Dwelling Mammals of Eucalypt Forests in South-Eastern New South Wales: the Effect of Environmental Variables on Distribution and Abundance.
Authors: Catling PC , Burt RJ
Published: June 2005

The distribution and abundance of ground-dwelling mammals was examined in 13 areas within 500 000 ha of eucalypt (Eucalyptus) forest in SE New South Wales. Data are presented on the distribution and abundance of species in relation to 3 environmental gradient types involving 9 variables: 2 direct gradients (temperature, rainfall); 6 indirect gradients (aspect, steepness of slope, position on slope, landform profile around the site, altitude, season) and a resource gradient (lithology). Many species of ground-dwelling mammal of the forests of SE New South Wales were present along all gradients examined, although wide variation in abundance occurred for some species. Eight species were correlated with direct gradients and all species were correlated with at least one indirect gradient. There was wide variation and species diversity with lithology, but the variation was not related to nutrient status. Although variations in abundance occurred along environmental gradients, the composition of the ground-dwelling mammal fauna in SE New South Wales forests changed little. A fourth gradient type, the substrate gradient (biomass of plants), had the greatest effect, because in the short-term disturbances such as logging and fire play an important role. Disturbance can have a profound influence on the substrate gradient, but no influence on environmental gradients. The results are discussed in relation to the arboreal mammals and avifauna in the region and Environmental and Fauna Impact studies and forest management.
Home-range characteristics and movement patterns of the red-legged pademelon (Thylogale stigmatica) in a fragmented tropical rainforest
Authors: Vernes K , Marsh H , Winter J
Published: June 2005

Home-range characteristics and movement patterns of five male and eight female red-legged pademelons
(Thylogale stigmatica) were studied in north-eastem Queensland between September 1991 and June 1992
using radio-telemetry. In relation to mean body weight, the home range of T. stigmatica was small (mean = 2.26
ha, n = 9), individually variable (range 0.82-3.70 ha) and partitioned into spatially distinct diurnal and
nocturnal components. The nocturnal range (mean = 1.00 ha,n = 6) incorporated forest edge and pasture
habitat, and was somewhat smaller than the diurnal range (mean = 1.67 ha, n = l0), which was located entirely
within the forest. Home-range shape was governed largely by the distance between the diurnal and
nocturnal ranges, which in turn was related to physical features within the habitat. Pademelons moved
slowly within and quickly between their diurnal and nocturnal ranges. Movement between these areas
occurred just after dusk and just prior to dawn. The diurnal rate of movement (m min-1) was generally
higher than the nocturnal rate, suggesting that pademelons moved extensively in the forest during the day,
and were relatively sedentary whilst on pasture at night.
Reproductive success of little penguins, Eudyptula minor, on Lion Lsland, New South Wales
Authors: Rogers T , Eldershaw G , Walraven E
Published: June 2005

Little penguins, Eudyptula minor, were once common along the Sydney coastline; however, today almost
all breeding penguins in the region are found on a small island in the mouth of the Hawkesbury River.
During a four-year study, the reproductive success of breeding birds on Lion Island was higher and less
variable than that reported from other areas. The early commencement of breeding, and the high and stable
breeding success during the study suggested that the colony had access to an abundant and stable food
source. In addition, success was not reduced by introduced predators and human disturbance is relatively
low. However, continued monitoring will be required to gain accurate information on the long-term
viability of this colony as penguin breeding success is known to fluctuate widely between years.
The Ecology of House Mice (Mus Domesticus) in and Around Irrigated Summer Crops in Western New South Wales.
Authors: Twigg LE , Kay BJ
Published: June 2005

A 28-month live-trapping survey was undertaken to investigate the ecology of house mice in an irrigated summer cropping system in western New South Wales. Five broad habitat types were examined: refuge habitat (e.g. roadside verges), grazed dryland pasture, and the irrigated summer crops soyabeans, sorghum/maize and cotton. Mouse abundance in most habitats peaked around March-April in each year, and then declined to relatively low levels by the end of spring. Mice were always present in refugia but were often at very low numbers or absent from pasture and cotton. Very few mice were caught on paddocks used for summer crops during their fallow stage, but quickly appeared immediately following sowing. Of the summer crops, the maintenance of relatively high numbers of mice was greatest in soyabean crops. Breeding occurred in several habitats throughout much of the year but was generally greatest in October-March. Grazed pasture and cotton had the fewest breeding females and refuge habitat the most. These results are compared with other published studies, and their implications for management strategies are discussed.
Abundane of macropods in north-eastern New South Wales, and the logistics of broad-scale ground surveys
Authors: Southwell CJ , Weaver KE , Cairns SC , Pople AR , Gordon AN , Sheppard NW , Broers R
Published: June 2005

A broad-scale ground survey of macropod abundance in north-eastern New South Wales was undertaken in
1989-90. The survey area was stratified into an eastern and western region, and within regions by habitat
on the basis of vegetation and topographic criteria. Macropod density in each stratum was estimated from
walked line transect counts for five species: Macropus giganteus, Macropus robustus, Macropus parryi,
Macropus rufogriseus and Wallabia bicolor. Within sampled strata, macropod density was substantially
higher in the western region than in the eastern region. Macropus parryi occurred in only trace numbers in
the eastern region, with the number of sightings too small for reliable density estimation. No M. parryi were
sighted in the western region. Macropus giganteus and M. rufogriseus were the dominant species in
sampled strata in the eastern region, while M. giganteus and M. robustus were dominant in the west.
Overall, pre-survey activities of habitat digitising and liaison with landholders required approximately the
same effort as actual survey work. Liaison with landholders required relatively more time in the eastern
region, where human population was higher, than in the western region. Incomplete coverage of planned
transect routes, due mainly to impenetrable vegetation, lead to a positive bias of no more than 10-20% in
population estimation for M. giganteus and M. robustus, and an unknown bias for the other species. The use
of broad vegetation information on 1 : 100 000 map sheets for habitat stratification limited the scale at
which analysis of sightability could be undertaken. Macropus giganteus and M. robustus are commercially
harvested in the western region. Annual commercial harvest rates in the three years prior to the survey were
conservatively estimated to be less than 0.9% for M. robustus and less than 5.4% for M. giganteus.
A New Holding-Cage for Small Mammals.
Authors: Meulman EP , Klomp NI
Published: June 2005

A new type of holding-cage is described that can be used to hold, weigh and examine small mammals caught in Elliott traps without the need for handling the animal, thus reducing the risk of disease transmission (e.g. of leptospirosis) from animal to researcher. The holding-cage is light, robust and easily carried in the field. The design includes a drawer to hold the equipment usually required by field researchers of small mammals. This new holding-cage is reported to be particularly useful for studies of mammal populations involving marked individuals that are repeatedly trapped, weighed and released.
Contrast between the visible abundance of the brush-tailed rock-wallaby, Petrogale penicillata, and its rarity in fox and dog scats in the gorges east of Armidale, New South Wales
Authors: Lunney D , Law B , Rummery C
Published: June 2005

Predator scats were collected near colonies of the brush-tailed rock-wallaby, Petrogale penicillata, in
gorges near Armidale, New South Wales. Scat collection coincided with the two periods when these
macropodids are believed to be most vulnerable to predation: when juveniles vacate the pouch (September)
and when they disperse from natal home ranges (April). The ratio of known dingo to fox scats did not differ
significantly from 1 : 1 for each collection period. The most common dietary items identified in the scat
analysis were as follows: rabbits (in 30% of scats); swamp wallabies (21%); cattle (16%); and brushtail
possums (10%). Despite a visible abundance of P. penicillata in the study area, it occurred rarely (1%) in
the 342 canid scats collected, and no P. penicillata was detected in fox scats. While the collection and
analysis of predator scats does detect P. penicillata, it does not provide an efficient means of doing so and
is unlikely to be effective at detecting small populations of this species.
A Radiotelemetry System for Monitoring the Treadle Snare in Programmes for Control of Wild Canids.
Authors: Marks CA
Published: June 2005

A capture-status alarm system was developed to be used in conjunction with a humane snare device used
for control of wild canids in Victoria. The alarm unit transmits a unique identity code as well as indicating
the capture status of the snare. Large numbers of alarm units can be allocated to a single frequency as data
transmission is short and governed by a pseudo-random timer. All status information is presented in
alphanumeric format on a light-emitting diode display. The system is user-friendly and does not demand a
high degree of skill to operate. The alarm can be incorporated with a number of trapping devices and should
enhance the efficacy and humaneness of any trapping operations.
Effect of Pasture Availability on Bait Uptake by Feral Pigs in Australia's Semi-Arid Rangelands.
Authors: Choquenot D , Lukins B
Published: June 2005

Factors that influence bait uptake by feral pigs will determine the efficacy of poisoning and trapping
programmes for the control of pigs and have the potential to introduce bias to indices of pig abundance
requiring bait consumption. In this study, the influence of pasture availability on uptake of bait trails
consisting of soaked wheat by pigs in the semi-arid rangelands of north-western New South Wales was
investigated. Percentage uptake of bait trails, pig density and pasture biomass were estimated for six sites
along the Paroo River on six occasions: two each when pasture biomass was relatively high, moderate and
low. The influence of pasture biomass on the relationship between percentage uptake of bait trails and pig
density was examined by linear regression analysis. The analysis demonstrated that increasing pasture
biomass significantly reduced the density of pigs corresponding to a given percentage uptake of bait trails,
suggesting that, as pasture biomass increased, fewer pigs consumed bait trails andlor the number of bait
trails each pig consumed declined. Assuming the former, the effect of increasing pasture biomass on the
relationship between percentage uptake of bait trails and pig density indicated that, for every increase in
pasture biomass of 100 kg ha-1, the percentage of pigs consuming bait declined by about 10%. The
implications of these results for pig control and bias associated with indices of pig abundance requiring bait
consumption are discussed.
Comparison of the Diet of Feral Cats From Rural and Pastoral Western Australia.
Authors: Martin GR , Twigg LE , Robinson DJ
Published: June 2005

The stomach contents of 93 cats from rural and pastoral Western Australia were compared using the
number and biomass of food items, and by calculating an Index of Relative Importance for each food
category. Species of small native mammals (e.g. dasyurids, rodents) and geckos were significantly
(P < 0.03) more prevalent in the diet of pastoral cats, and rural cats consumed greater (P < 0.03) quantities
of introduced rodents and rabbits. Several other groups of native animals (e.g. snakes, skinks, agamids)
were also more prevalent in the stomachs of pastoral cats (P < 0.10). Birds and orthopterans were important
food items to cats from both habitats. There was reasonable dietary overlap (mean = 0.71) between the cats
from both habitats, but the dietary breadth of the pastoral cats (mean = 0.44) was two-fold greater than that
of the rural cats (mean = 0.21). These findings are compared with previous studies, and are discussed with
respect to possible implications for future management strategies for feral cats.
Assessing the Impacts of Logging on Reptiles and Frogs in the Montane Forests of Southern New South Wales.
Authors: Goldingay R , Daly G , Lemckert F
Published: June 2005

This study describes an assessment of the medium-term effects of selection logging on the reptiles and frogs in the montane forests near Queanbeyan, New South Wales. A total of 15 reptile and two frog species was detected across 20 fixed-area plots that were selected according to broad forest type and logging history. Reptile species richness was not significantly different among the different habitat treatments. Total reptile abundance was significantly higher on logged plots, but was not influenced by forest moisture type. Individual analyses for five lizard species (accounting for 84% of all data) showed that several species (Eulamprus tympanum, E. heatwolei and Pseudemoia spenceri) had significantly greater abundances on the logged plots than on the unlogged plots, while two species (Nannoscincus maccoyi and Niveoscincus coventryi) did not differ significantly in their abundances across treatments. Thus, none of these species (which included arboreal, terrestrial and fossorial species) appeared to be adversely affected by past logging practices. Insufficient data on frogs were obtained for analysis. An additional 26 species (13 reptile and 13 frog species) were recorded during a regional survey involving 57 sites. Only two frog species were detected at more than 10 sites, illustrating the difficulty in obtaining data to determine whether logging has any impact on frog populations. Snakes are similarly difficult to assess: 13 snakes from six species were detected in this study. It is concluded that (i) the most abundant reptile species were not adversely affected by past logging, and (ii) many species of herpetofauna were patchy in their distribution across the study area, preventing resolution of the influence of habitat type or disturbance. The difficulty in collecting quantitative data on frogs and snakes confirms the importance of surveys that target endangered frog and snake species so that protective buffer zones can be delineated. Further research is required on these groups to assess the impact of forest management practices.
Response of the Skink Oligosoma Maccanni (Reptilia: Lacertilia) to Two Vertebrate Pest-Control Baits.
Authors: Freeman AB , Hickling GJ , Bannock CA
Published: June 2005

The attractiveness of two vertebrate pest-control baits (non-toxic RS5 and Pindone-impregnated AgTech) to
captive skinks (Oligosoma maccanni) was assessed with timelapse video and feeding trials in New Zealand.
0. maccanni were attracted to both bait types. When dry, pindone baits were more palatable than RS5 baits.
However, when wet the palatability of both baits increased and was similar. Bait size had no significant
effect on palatability. Lizards ate an average of 0.01 g of RS5 bait or 0.02 g of Agtech Pindone bait, over
two days. On the basis of published susceptibility data, it is unlikely that this level of consumption would
expose skinks to lethal doses of these vertebrate pest toxins. Potential sublethal effects of such doses require
further study.
The Effect of Two Agricultural Techniques on Populations of the Cane Field Rat (Rattus Sordidus) in Sugarcane Crops of North Queensland.
Authors: Whisson D
Published: June 2005

R. sordidus is a major pest in the sugarcane-growing areas of north Queensland; however, little is known about factors affecting populations. This study investigated the effect of a minimum-tillage practice (green-cane harvest and trash-blanketing) compared with the conventional practice (pre-harvest burn and intensive cultivation) on the dynamics of populations of R. sordidus in sugarcane crops of the Herbert River District, N. Queensland, from Nov. 1987 to Sep. 1988 (from planting to harvesting of crops). Populations of R. sordidus became established earlier in trash-blanketed crops, but breeding was reduced as a result of the suppression of summer grasses, identified as a favoured food source of R. sordidus during the breeding period (Jan.-May). Cover of summer grasses was high in conventional areas, and these areas supported populations characterized by a female-biased sex ratio, a high incidence of pregnancy, females in the most productive age-class, and low turnover rates, relative to populations in trash-blanketed areas. Damage to sugarcane increased once breeding had ceased and the diet of R. sordidus had changed from seed and non-cane vegetation to sugarcane. Damage was similar in trash-blanketed and conventional areas, probably as a result of dispersal of individuals from conventional areas into trash-blanketed areas following the breeding period. Implications for population and damage levels of R. sordidus on a regional scale are discussed.
Bird assemblages in a small public reserve and adjacent residental area at Wollongong
Authors: Wood KA
Published: June 2005

A total of 8262 birds of 57 species was counted in a degraded public reserve and adjacent residential area
during 61 paired transects in 1990. Most of the reserve was remnant wet sclerophyll forest (5 ha) and
subtropical rainforest (0.4 ha), whereas a variety of mature native and introduced trees and shrubs were
present in the 55-year-old suburb. Species evenness was similar in the habitats of the reserve and residental
area but not species richness, number of individuals or composition of the avifauna. In all seasons, the
reserve was richer in species but poorer in absolute numbers of birds. Thirteen native species were reserve
specialists, six species (five introduced) were suburb specialists and 17 species showed only slight habitat
preference. Excluding silvereyes, which showed little preference for either habitat, there were twice as
many regularly occurring species that preferred to use the reserve rather than the residential area but only
half the number of individuals. Nine specialist species are at risk of local extinction because their
populations in the reserve are critically small [range: 80 (brown gerygone, Gerygone mouki) to 5 birds
(eastern whipbird, Psophodes olivaceus)]. Seventeen species have become locally extinct since Europeans
arrived in 1816. Conservation of the avifauna is discussed.
A Safe and Selective Draw-String Trap to Capture Kangaroos Moving Under Fences.
Authors: Coulson G
Published: June 2005

Macropods have been captured by a variety of techniques: hand nets, trap yards, baited traps, cannon nets, drugged baits, syringe darts and stunning. These techniques differ in selectivity, in the likelihood of physical trauma or capture myopathy, and in the number of personnel required. Each technique is also limited to particular habitats or environmental conditions. A new draw-string trap was developed to capture kangaroos moving under fences, using a tunnel of soft netting attached to a steel weldmesh floor and suspended from a weldmesh frame. Draw-string closures at each end of the netting allowed selective and safe capture of kangaroos by two operators.
Native small mammals and reptiles in cropped and uncropped parts of lakebeds in semi-arid Australia
Authors: Biggs SV
Published: June 2005

Small mammals and reptiles were surveyed by trapping in uncropped and cropped parts of two dry lakebeds
in semi-arid New South Wales, Australia, in spring 1992 and 1993. Four species of native small mammals
(18 individuals) were captured in uncropped parts of the lakebeds, compared with two individuals of one
species in cropped parts of the lakebeds. A total of 38 reptiles (seven species) was caught at the uncropped
sites compared with 10 individuals (four species) at the cropped sites. Small mammals were absent where
the soil was scarified and bare between crop cycles. The habitat requirements of small mammals (particularly
Planigale gilesi) and reptiles need to be provided for when cropping lakebeds. The most effective way to
do this is to leave wide strips of uncropped soil at the edges of lakebeds, and patches of uncropped country
that are connected to the strips, on lakebeds.
Indices for Measuring the Efficacy of Aerial Baiting for Wild Dog Control in North-Eastern New South Wales.
Authors: Fleming PJS , Thompson JA , Nicol HI
Published: June 2005

The efficacy of aerial baiting with 1080 poison (sodium fluoroacetate) for the control of wild dogs (Canis familiaris familiaris and C. familiaris dingo) in the temperate rangelands of north-eastern New South Wales was studied. In each year from 1991 to 1993, 2 indices of the abundance of dogs, one a raw count of sets of footprints per km of transect (SF) and the other an ln-transformed frequency corrected for sightability of signs (CI), were used to quantify the changes in abundance caused by aerial baiting. Abundance of dogs at a nil-treatment site was estimated concurrently. The SF index found the 1991 baiting to be efficacious. Both measures of abundance showed baiting to be efficacious in 1992 and 1993. Reductions of 66.3-84.5% in the abundance of dogs at the treatment site were found for the CI measure. The SF measure displayed abundance changes of 76.1-91.1%. The indices of abundance measured prior to the annual baiting in 1992 and 1993 were similar, indicating that populations returned to their initial abundance within 1 year.