bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Sea-Turtle Rookeries in North-Western Torres Strait
Authors: Limpus CJ , Zeller D , Kwan D , Macfarlane W
Published: June 2005

Deliverance Island, Kerr Islet and Turu Cay in north-western Torres Strait support a major nesting
population and the most northerly recorded rookery of the flatback turtle, Natator depressa. Nesting
occurs there year round, with a peak in the early months of the year. The islands are insignificant
nesting sites for the green turtle, Chelonia mydas, and the hawksbill turtle, Eretmochelys imbricata.
The N. depressa turtles that nest in western Torres Strait-north-eastern Gulf of Carpentaria are smaller
and lay smaller eggs on average than the N. depressa turtles that breed in the southern Great Barrier
Reef. On Deliverance Island, the inhabitants of nearby Queensland islands and Papua New Guinea
coastal villages infrequently harvest N. depressa eggs as well as the green turtles that feed over the
surrounding reef flats.
Distribution, Relative Abundance and Conservation Status of Corroboree Frogs, Pseudophrne-Corroboree Moore (Anura, Myobatrachidae)
Authors: Osborne WS
Published: June 2005

A survey of the distribution and abundance of the corroboree frog, Pseudophryne corroboree, was
carried out over five summers between December 1984 and April 1989. The species has a restricted
high-mountain distribution, occurring as three disjunctive populations: Snowy Mountains, Fiery Range
and Brindabella Range. The Snowy Mountains and Fiery Range populations are relatively widespread,
occupying areas of 400 and 550 km2 respectively. In contrast, the Brindabella Range population is
restricted to about 60 km2. The abundance of the Snowy Mountains population has been considerably
reduced throughout much of its range, perhaps because of frequent summer drought between 1979
and 1984. Although P. corroboree is rare, its range is largely within conservation reserves, and its
relatively broad latitudinal distribution has prevented adverse conditions from affecting all populations.
The decline in abundance of the distinctive Snowy Mountains population may be a response to adverse
short-term weather, or it may be part of a decline and range contraction over a longer period.
An Assessment of the Hazard Posed to Northern Quolls (Dasyurus-Hallucatus) by Aerial Baiting With 1080 to Control Dingoes
Authors: King DR , King DR
Published: June 2005

The hazard posed to northern quolls, Dasyurus hallucatus, during aerial baiting programs for the
control of dingoes was studied in a pastoral area of Western Australia. The incidence of mortality and
the movements of the animals were studied by means of radiotelemetry. Minimum activity areas ranged
from 5 to 1109 ha, and the longest movement recorded was 3.5 km over 7 days. All animals could
have encountered baits. Mating occurred shortly before baits were laid. The animals subsequently lost
condition and body weights were low at the time of baiting.
No quolls died in the 2 weeks following the baiting. This suggests that northern quolls and other,
theoretically less susceptible, non-target species of mammals in the pastoral areas of Western Australia
are not at risk from 1080 aerial baiting programs.
Diet of the Barn Owl, Tyto-Alba, in the Tanami Desert, Northern Territory
Authors: Smith JDB , Cole J
Published: June 2005

The diet of the barn owl was determined by analysing egested pellets collected from the Tanami Desert.
These data were also used to examine the distribution of small mammals in the region.
Rodents were the dominant prey items, forming more than 74% of prey biomass in all samples.
The dominant rodent species were those that undergo large fluctuations in population size. Notomys
alexis was the dominant prey item in 15 of the 17 samples. In all samples, one or two species of
rodents formed 47-100% of prey biomass. Dasyurids were relatively minor prey items, forming less
than 12% of prey biomass in all samples. It is suggested that this is a reflection of their abundance
relative to rodents. Bats, birds, lizards and insects combined formed less than 14% of prey biomass in
all but one sample (24%). Behavioural and life-history characteristics of prey appear to affect their
susceptibility to predation.
The analysis of pellets proved to be a useful supplementary technique to conventional methods of
surveying small mammals. All species of small mammal that could be expected were identified in owl
pellets. Notomys amplus was recorded in pellets but not collected by conventional techniques.
Distribution and Abundance of Feral Livestock in the 'Top End' of the Northern Territory (1985-86), and Their Relation to Population Control.
Authors: Bayliss P , Bayliss P , Yeomans KM , Yeomans KM
Published: June 2005

Feral and domestic livestock (buffalo, cattle, horses and donkeys) were censused by fixed-wing aerial survey over the 'Top End' of the Northern Territory (above the 16th parallel) in March-April 1985, encompassing 233 672 km2 (16.7% of the Territory). The mean sampling rate on the major coastal lowland (38 281 km2) was 7.3%, and that for the rest was 3.7%. The accuracy of population estimates was improved by applying habitat-specific visibility correction factors to animals counted in groups.
The Water Fluxes of Rattus-Fuscipes and Antechinus-Stuartii Before and After a Prescribed Fire
Authors: Catling PC , Green B , Newgrain K
Published: June 2005

We examined the postulate that fires would induce shortages of food and water and would be reflected
in changes in water influx and efflux, loss of body weight and body fat, and an increase in mass
specific body water in populations of Rattus fuscipes and Antechinus stuartii. A low-intensity, prescribed
fire had no effect on any parameter and food supplies appeared adequate for the survivors in the short
term. Some parameters differed between sites, sexes and species. The differences observed in male
A. stuartii resulted from their unusual life cycle and not from fire.
Epidemiological Observations on the Helminth Parasites of Macropus Giganteus Shaw in Victoria.
Authors: Arundel JH , Dempster KJ , Harrigan KE , Black R
Published: June 2005

An epidemiological study of the nematode parasites of the eastern grey kangaroo (M. giganteus) was made in an enclosed reserve north of Melbourne, Victoria, Australia. Adult and juvenile kangaroos were collected at approximately 6-weekly intervals and blood, faeces and the entire gastrointestinal tract was obtained. The nematodes present were Globocephaloides trifidospicularis, Rugopharynx australis, R. rosemariae, Pharyngostrongylus kappa, Cloacina spp., Strongyloides sp., Macropostrongylus baylisi, Paramacropostrongylus toraliformis, Alocostoma clelandi, Labiostrongylus spp., Macroponema comani and Macropoxyuris. The majority of nematodes had a seasonal fluctuation. Acquisition commenced in late summer and reached a peak in midwinter before declining in spring. G. trifidospicularis caused considerable mortality in juvenile kangaroos and there was a strong relationship between rising numbers of this species and falling plasma protein, haemoglobin concentration and haematocrit values. This species can cause heavy mortality in juvenile kangaroos in enclosed populations when winter feed is depleted and when the small animals with no fat reserves experience maximum cold stress. Other parasites present included Progamotaenia ewersi, P. festiva, P. macropodis, Triplotaenia fimbriata, T. undosa, Eimeria wilcanniensis, E. macropodis, E. hestermani and E. marsupialum.
Control of Bennett's and Tammar Wallabies in New Zealand Using Compound 1080 Gel on Foliage Baits.
Authors: Warburton B
Published: June 2005

Trials were carried out against Bennett's wallabies (Macropus rufogriseus rufogriseus) and tammar wallabies (M. eugenii) in areas of indigenous forest where browsing is preventing or damaging regeneration. Compound 1080 (sodium monofluoroacetate) in a carbopol gel was spread on the foliage of palatable plants. Numbers of Bennett's wallabies were reduced by 91% and tammar wallabies by 87%. These kill estimates compare favourably with those achieved using aerially sown baits. The costs per hectare of gel poisoning were estimated to be as little as 40% of those for aerial baiting, but the costs of using gel will increase as the control areas become larger, more rugged, and less easily traversed on foot.
Behavioral-Response of Brushtail Possums, Trichosurus-Vulpecula, to Baits Used in Pest-Control
Authors: Morgan DR
Published: June 2005

The behavioural responses of captive possums (Trichosurus vulpecula) were observed during first encounters with non-toxic and toxic carrot and pellet baits used in pest control programmes. Possums confronted with new baits first used smell in a highly discriminating way, and then taste, which sometimes changed their initial response. Toxic carrot baits were rejected by 27.5% of possums, equally by smell and taste aversion, and toxic pellet baits by 34% of possums, mainly by taste aversion. Few (5-7%) rejected non-toxic baits. Such non-learned aversion mechanisms therefore have an important role in the feeding behaviour of possums. A range of flavours tested, using barley as a food base, showed that only orange-flavored barley was significantly preferred to non-flavoured barley; 19 flavours had no significant effect, and 19 others significantly reduced barley consumption. Orange and cinnamon, which was ranked fourth and repels some bird species, were tested as masks for 1080 baits. Both flavours effectively masked the aversive smell and taste of 1080. The levels of toxic flavoured bait rejection were low and did not differ from those of non-toxic (flavoured or non-flavoured) baits. Very few possums were observed vomiting, a behaviour in other species that may assist survival.
Feeding Strategies of the Swamp Wallaby, Wallabia-Bicolor, on North Stradbroke Island, Queensland .2. Effects of Seasonal-Changes in Diet Quality on Intestinal Morphology
Authors: Osawa R , Woodall PF
Published: June 2005

The effect of seasonal changes in diet quality on the alimentary tract of the swamp wallaby, W. bicolor, on North Stradbroke Island was investigated by examining 25 road-killed animals. To allow for variation in body weight, allometric analyses of both macroscopic and microscopic dimensions of the intestine were used and differences were tested by analysis of covariance. W. bicolor on a high fibre diet in spring and autumn had significantly shorter villi compared to those on a low fibre diet in winter and summer, suggesting that the intestinal villi of W. bicolor are highly labile and respond rapidly to changes in diet quality.
The Use of Measured Scutes of Hawksbill Turtles, Eretmochelys-Imbricata, in the Management of the Tortoiseshell (Bekko) Trade
Authors: Limpus CJ , Miller JD
Published: June 2005

A strong positive correlation is demonstrated between the size of selected carapacial scutes (costal 1, vertebral 1 and vertebral 5) and the curved carapace length of hawksbill turtles (Eretmochelys imbricata). A count of any one of these distinctive scute types, and the measurement of these scutes, can be used to determine the number and size class distribution of E. imbricata represented in consignments of raw tortoiseshell.
Stomach Flushing of an Insectivorous Bird - an Assessment of Differential Digestibility of Prey and the Risk to Birds
Authors: Major RE
Published: June 2005

The effectiveness of stomach flushing as a method for determining diet was tested experimentally on captive white-fronted chats, Ephthianura albifrons. The relative retrieval rates of six taxa of prey depended on their size and the durability of identifiable parts. For Scatella sp. (Diptera), flushing was best performed 15 min after ingestion. Stomach flushing produced a better recovery rate (up to 70% of fly wings) than faecal analysis (2%). Birds were each flushed 14 times without mortality and recapture rates of 319 wild birds which had been flushed did not differ from 364 unflushed birds.
Diet of the House Mouse, Mus domesticus, in the Mallee Wheatlands of North-Western Victoria
Authors: Tann CR , Singleton GR , Coman BJ
Published: June 2005

The quality and/or quantity of food available to mice at key times may be important in generating
plagues. This study examined the diet and breeding performance of mice over two years in the mallee
wheatlands of Victoria. Mice were trapped approximately every 6th week and their stomach contents
examined for seven categories of food. Indices of occurrence and estimates of percentage volumes of
each category indicated that cereal seeds were the staple food of mice. They bred earlier in the second
year, but in both years there was a pulse of invertebrates and fresh grass seeds in the diet before the
onset of breeding. These pulses occurred when seed reserves ['mature' (>3 months) cereal and
dicotyledon seeds] were low. Mice, however, were highly responsive to changes in the availability of
different food classes throughout the study. Thus the relative influences of nutritional factors (food
quality) and availability of food (food quantity) on the onset of breeding were difficult to determine.
The annual peak in female breeding coincided with the availability of fresh cereal grain. Breeding ceased
in autumn each year despite the presence of ample 'mature' cereal seeds. Investigations of the effect
of climatic factors on timing and abundance of nutrients in the environment is essential for an understanding
of their influence on the population dynamics of mice.
1,3-Difluoro-2-Propanol: a Potential Replacement for 1080 in Fauna Management Programs in Australia.
Authors: Mead RJ , Feldwick MG , Bunn JT
Published: June 2005

Administration to rats of 100 mg/kg of 1,3-difluoro-2-propanol (DFP), the major ingredient of the pesticide Gliftor, resulted in citrate accumulation in the kidney after a 3-h lag phase. Inhibition of aconitate hydratase in the kidney and the development of symptoms typical of sodium fluoroacetate (1080) poisoning in DFP-intoxicated rats suggested metabolism of DFP to (-)erythrofluorocitrate. The conversion of DFP to the toxic metabolite was found to involve defluorination by a microsomal mixed-function oxidase in the liver, induced by phenobarbitone and inhibited by piperonyl butoxide. Administration to rats of pyrazole (90 mg/kg body weight) decreased the activity of the mixed-function oxidase-dependent defluorination of DFP. When administered to rats either 2 h before or 2 h after DFP (100 mg/kg body weight) it eliminated symptoms of poisoning, prevented citrate and fluoride accumulation, and decreased aconitate hydratase inhibition in the kidney. The antidotal properties of pyrazole, the mode of toxic action of (-)erythrofluorocitrate, and the potential for DFP to replace 1080 in fauna management programs in Australia is discussed.
Breeding Ecology of the Western Long-billed Corella, Cacatua pastinator pastinator
Authors: Smith GT
Published: June 2005

The breeding ecology of a small population of the western long-billed corella, Cacatua p. pastinator,
was investigated for 6 years in the central wheatbelt of Western Australia. Pair-bonds tended to be
long-lasting; however, the divorce rate for birds breeding for the first time was 25% with an overall
rate of 15%. Females formed stable pair-bonds by age 2, and bred for the first time between 3 and
5 years old; males started breeding when 5 years old. Clutches (range from one to four, mode three)
were started in early August; 78% are started in the last 3 weeks of the month. Mean clutch size, brood
size and number fledged were 2.7 , 1.9 and 1.6 respectively; there were no significant differences in
these parameters among the six years of the study. Hatching was asynchronous and was followed by
the death of the young nestlings when they were significantly smaller (77%) than their older siblings.
Nestlings fledged when they were about 60 days old; neither their mass or degree of wing growth
influenced fledging age. Mean mass of fledglings from broods of three was significantly greater than
that of broods of two or one. Productivity was assessed by the numbers of young fledging, surviving
the post-fledging period, and reaching independence. Neither mass nor condition at fledging influenced
any of these measures; productivity in all three increased with clutch size. Rainfall and temperature
had no influence on the numbers fledged, but the number reaching independence was significantly and
positively correlated with the mean maximum summer temperature. The results are discussed in relation
to the results from studies of other species of cockatoos living in the wheatbelt of Western Australia.
Home Range, Dispersal and Density of Red Foxes (Vulpes Vulpes L.) In Central Victoria.
Authors: Coman BJ , Robinson J , Beaumont C
Published: June 2005

Between 1983 and 1986, various aspects of red fox spatial behaviour were studied in both rural and
semi-urban environments in central Victoria. Using radio-telemetry, the short-term home ranges of three
adult foxes (2 male, 1 female) in a pasture/woodland habitat were estimated to be of the order of
5-7 km2 each. In a semi-urban environment nearby, the home ranges of a further 3 adult animals
(2 male, 1 female) were estimated to be 0.6-1.3 km2 each. Estimates of home range size based on a
90% space utilisation effectively halved the home range area for all six foxes. There were indications
that, for the animals concerned, ranges were mutually exclusive except in the case of a breeding pair
which shared a common home range. During the studies, 137 young fox cubs were ear-tagged and
released at the point of capture. Subsequently, 46 of these animals were returned by hunters. Nearly
70% of the returned animals were killed at a distance of 2 km or less from the tagging site but
dispersal distances of up to 30 km were recorded. The average dispersal distance for animals killed
more than 2 km from the tagging site was 11 km.
Estimates of fox density in a rural area of some 2400 ha were obtained by a survey of active
breeding dens in the 1985 and 1986 breeding seasons. Assuming one breeding pair plus three surviving
young per litter, the maximum summer density was estimated at about 3.0 foxes km-2 and the
minimum winter density as about 1.2 foxes km-2. For a further estimate of density, 13 foxes were
live-captured, fitted with radios and released. In a short control program on the study area a few weeks
later, 7 of these animals were recovered in a total sample of 50 foxes killed. The remaining 6 foxes were
established as still present in the study area. Using this capturehecapture data, an early autumn density
of about 3.9 foxes km-2 was indicated. The significance of this data in relation to the possible role
of foxes as vectors of rabies disease in Australia is discussed.
Hatchling Sex Ratios are Independent of Temperature in Field Nests of the Long-necked Turtle, Chelodina longicollis (Testudinata : Chelidae)
Authors: Palmer-Allen M , Beynon F , Georges a
Published: June 2005

Eastern long-necked turtles, Chelodina longicollis, are known to lack heteromorphic sex chromosomes
and to lack temperature-dependent sex determination when incubated under constant conditions.
This study determined whether sex ratios of hatchlings emerging from natural nests of C. longicollis
were different from that expected from constant temperature experiments. Temperatures in the eight
nests monitored varied considerably each day (by 1.7-12.6�C), with eggs at the top of the nest
experiencing the greatest variation (mean range 9.0�C) and eggs at the bottom experiencing least
variation (mean range 5.3�C). Temperatures experienced by the top and bottom eggs differed by as
much as 5.7�C at any one time. No monotonic seasonal trend was evident, but rainfall caused a sharp
drop in nest temperatures. Sex ratios in hatchlings from 14 field nests of C. longicollis did not differ
significantly from 1:1, a result in agreement with previous studies conducted at constant incubation
temperatures in the laboratory.
Australian Brush-turkeys in a Suburban Environment: Implications for Conflict and Conservation
Authors: Jones DN , Everding SE
Published: June 2005

Although frequently reported from within the Brisbane city boundaries, the range of the Australian
brush-turkey, Alectura lathami, was limited mainly to forested areas adjacent to suburban areas.
Since the early 1970s, however, the species' presence in the suburbs has increased steadily and it is now
common in many suburbs. Destruction and disruption of gardens during the construction of incubation
mounds has led to a significant conflict with householders. This study found the species to be most
abundant in suburbs adjacent to forest reserves and major watercourses. A number of extremely
isolated populations were also identified. Although suburban mounds contained similar numbers of
eggs as mounds from the wild, suburban mounds were more prone to failure, probably due to the use
of inappropriate mound materials. Despite some evidence of increasing spread within the suburbs, the
long-term survival of the species is seriously threatened by hatchling predation and continued loss
of habitat.
Some Population characteristics of Perameles gunnii in Victoria
Authors: Dufty AC
Published: June 2005

On the Australian mainland, the eastern barred bandicoot is now restricted to the city of Hamilton in western Victoria. Mark-recapture data from four main population areas, used in a Petersen index, gave a population estimate of about 134 individuals in 1988. When areas not sampled for population abundance were included, the total estimate of abundance for Hamilton was 246 individuals. Sex ratio was significantly male-biased for adults (68%), whereas the sex ratio for pouch young was about equal (45% male). The subadult age class constituted 8.2% of the captures, and accounted for only 10% of the total number of pouch young produced. Mean litter size was 2.11. The number of lactating females and the litter size were greatest during early spring. Eighty per cent of the offspring were produced in litters of 2 or 3. Nests were observed in various substrates, including man-made structures. Selected foraging areas had few native grasses, high ground cover, tall plant height and acid soils of low to medium compaction. Bandicoots were observed feeding on invertebrates, with some orchard fruits also being eaten. Foraging patches were actively defended. Adult home ranges of males (mean 12.94 ha) were larger than those of females (mean 2.38 ha). No female moved more than 150 m whereas males moved up to 2.3 km from their initial point of capture. The major cause of adult mortality observed was road kills. Life-expectancy is probably less than 2 years. Juvenile mortality was high.
Behavioural determination of visual function in the Koala (Phascolarctos cinereus).
Authors: Schmid LM , Schmid KL , Brown B
Published: June 2005

A behavioural estimate of the koala's dependence on vision was made using fabric hoods to degrade
the vision of ten male koalas. Koalas were placed on the ground in a square enclosure, with a centrally
placed 'tree'. With unobstructed vision, the koalas quickly travelled across the ground to the tree and
climbed it. However, with severely reduced vision, the koalas would not search for or climb the tree.
When their vision was obscured, the koalas tended to raise their forelegs when walking, taking high,
reaching steps. The koala appears to require a certain minimum level of vision before climbing trees.
Ocular chlamydial infection, which can cause a significant visual loss, may result in similar changes in
behaviour and thus contribute to mortality.
Density distributions and habitat associations of red kangaroos, Macropus rufus, and western grey kangaroos, M. fuliginosus
Authors: Cairns SC , Pople AR , Grigg GC
Published: June 2005

Density distributions of red and western grey kangaroos in the South Australian pastoral zone were
determined for the period 1978-86. The habitat associations of these kangaroos were analysed using the
densities on half-degree blocks, and information on landform and soil type, land use and degradation,
vegetation, and climate. Red kangaroos were found throughout the pastoral zone, the highest densities
being in the north-east. Western grey kangaroos were restricted to the southern parts of the pastoral
zone. Higher densities of red kangaroos were associated with pastoral land use, with brown calcareous
and red duplex soils, and with areas dominated by low bluebush shrublands. They were not particularly
closely associated with areas dominated by mulga. Habitat associations of red kangaroos were different
in drought years compared to non-drought years. Changes in density distribution during drought appears
to have been due to the patchiness of rainfall. The relative effect of the drought was greatest in
the northern part of the pastoral zone. Outside this effect, recent rainfall was found to be of only
secondary importance to the overall density distribution of red kangaroos.
Climatic factors appeared to be the major determinants of the density distribution of western grey
kangaroos. Low evaporation and relatively high rainfall characterised areas with high densities of
western grey kangaroos. As was the case with red kangaroos, habitat heterogeneity appeared to be an
important requirement of western grey kangaroos. Also, habitat associations were different in drought
and non-drought years. Despite this, as was the case with red kangaroos, recent rainfall was only of
secondary importance to the overall distribution of western grey kangaroos.
Ontogenteic alteration of activity and habitat selection by Bufo marinus
Authors: Freeland WJ , Kerin SH
Published: June 2005

Recently metamorphosed Bufo marinus exhibit patterns of activity and habitat use that vary in relation
to changes in weather and moisture availability. Activity adjacent to water is greatest on moist substrates
at high daytime temperatures in windy weather. Conditions that inhibit evaporative cooling (no
wind, dry substrates, high humidity), or are likely to lead to low body temperatures (cool temperatures
at night under windy conditions) restrict activity. Activity in habitats away from permanent water is
dependent on metamorphlings having grown large enough to allow night-time activity on dry substrates.
Growth leads to a change in activity from diurnal as metarnorphlings, to nocturnal and diurnal as
juveniles (30-70 mm SVL), and to nocturnal as adulthood approaches. Size-dependent changes in patterns
of activity and habitat use are accompanied by changes in pelvic patch morphology and body pigmentation.
The morphological changes may have resulted from selection acting to minimise time spent
in the smaller size classes which are vulnerable to predators, competitors and the environment, and
size-dependent optimisation of chemical defences.
A note on the Status of the Eastern barred bandicoot, Perameles gunni, in Tasmania
Authors: Robinson NA , Sherwin WB , Brown PR
Published: June 2005

The eastern barred bandicoot, Perameles gunnii, formerly occurred widely in Victoria and Tasmania.
Because it is endangered in Victoria, clarification of its conservation and taxonomic status in Tasmania
is important. We observed the distribution and relative abundance of Perameles gunnii in nine localities
in Tasmania. Comparisons of trappability in three localities sampled in March 1985 and October-
November 1989 showed no decline in relative abundance. P. gunnii were more abundant in November
1989 than on two previous occasions at one location. However, six other localities where P. gunnii were
abundant in 1985 showed little evidence of P. gunnii activity in 1989. Spotlighting and trapping efforts,
together with anecdotal information, suggest a decline in the status of P. gunnii in the Tasmanian
Midland region. The reduction of these populations could be a feature of normal demographic fluctuation
or could be indicative of a real decline in the status of P. gunnii. Long-term studies to monitor
seasonal and annual abundance changes in Tasmania would be useful for the management of the
dwindling Victorian population, and are needed to fully determine the status of Tasmanian populations
for conservation and management purposes.
Movements of Fruit-bats in eastern Australia, determined by using radio-tracking
Authors: Spencer HJ , Palmer C , Parry-Jones K
Published: June 2005

Results from a long-term radio-tracking study of pteropodid fruit-bats are reported. Grey-headed fruit
bats (Pteropus poliocephalus) captured from seven colonies in eastern New South Wales, Australia, were
fitted with collar-mounted radio transmitters to permit their movements to be monitored over the
following year. The sheepskin-lined leather collars were well tolerated by the bats over periods of
6-18 months. Bats moved between major colony sites for distances of up to 750 km, with movements
occurring in both northerly and southerly directions. One bat from Lismore had a feeding range of
25 km, whereas in Sydney bats flew up to 17 km each night to feeding sites. There was considerable
interchange between bats in adjacent colonies.
Distribution and status of the spectacled hare-wallaby, Lagorchestes conspicillatus
Authors: Ingleby S
Published: June 2005

Past and present distributions of Lagorchestes conspicillatus were compared using data from museums,
explorers' records and from recent field surveys. These data indicated that L. conspicillatus has declined
in distribution and abundance during the last century. This species is now rare in the Pilbara and
Kimberley regions of Western Australia. It is moderately common between latitudes 16� and 18�S
in central and eastern Northern Territory, and its range extends north to around 12�S in Arnhem Land.
However, the southern limits of its range in the Northern Territory have contracted northward by over
200 km and it is rarely recorded below 21�S. L. conspicillatus remains widespread in Queensland
although its numbers in several areas appear to have declined in the last 10-15 years.
The status of L. conspicillatus should be regarded as vulnerable. Most of its preferred habitats
are currently under pastoral lease and at risk of alteration by introduced herbivores or clearing.
Unfavourable fire regimes and feral animals may also pose a threat to its survival in some areas.
Habitats suitable for L. conspicillatus are very poorly represented in National Parks throughout
northern Australia and this situation should be rectified.
The effect of experimental clutch harvest on numbers of magpie goose nests and juvenile recruitment
Authors: Dexter N , Bayliss P
Published: June 2005

The effect of harvest of magpie goose clutches on nest numbers and juvenile recruitment was investigated
experimentally within a single breeding colony, by comparing the densities of nests and offspring (eggs
and goslings) produced in harvested and unharvested blocks in each of two successive years. When
adjusted for initial differences in nest density, by covariance analysis, there were significantly higher
densities of nests in harvested blocks than in unharvested blocks, possibly due to re-laying in new
nests by those geese whose clutches were harvested. There were no differences in densities of offspring
produced between harvested and unharvested blocks although there were differences in densities of
offspring produced between years.
Effects of breeding and environment on body condition of maned ducks, Chenonetta jubata
Authors: Briggs SV , Lawler WG , Thornton SA
Published: June 2005

Body weights and fat levels of non-breeding maned ducks on the southern tablelands of New South
Wales and in the Australian Capital Territory were high during spring and summer, and low during
autumn and winter. During the non-breeding season, paired females were fatter than unpaired females
but fat levels of paired and unpaired males did not differ. Protein levels of females did not vary
significantly with season, but protein levels of males were lower in winter. Females undergoing rapid
follicle development before laying were fatter than non-breeding birds in the same months. Before
laying, females stored fat but not protein for egg production. They used 44% of their pre-laying fat
while laying, and a further 47% of the body fat present at the beginning of incubation was used
during it. Laying and incubating maned ducks, and ducks with young, were less fat than non-breeding
birds in the same months. Body condition of maned ducks was related to food availability, whether
breeding or not, to the stage of breeding, and in females to pair status.
The Distribution of small mammal species in relation to heath vegetation near Cape Otway, Victoria
Authors: Moro D
Published: June 2005

A trapping study of small mammals within heath communities near Cape Otway was conducted during
April-August 1989. The purpose was to describe the distribution patterns of several small mammals
in relation to a floristic and structural description of the vegetation. Two species of rodent (Rattus
lutreolus, R. fuscipes), two species of dasyurid (Antechinus stuartii, A. minimus) and one species of
bandicoot (Isoodon obesulus) were trapped frequently enough for statistical analysis. A. stuartii was
trapped significantly more often in the Heathy Open-forest than in the Closed Heath community,
in contrast to A. minimus and R. lutreolus, which were captured significantly more often in Closed
Heath. There was no significant difference in the distributions of R. fuscipes and I. obesulus between
communities. Within the Closed Heath community only R. fuscipes displayed significant distribution
patterns between sub-communities. In the Heathy Open-forest the distribution of captures among
sub-communities varied significantly for both species of Antechinus and for R. lutreolus. Floristic and
structural cues, as well as ground cover, were associated with the spatial distribution of dasyurid
and rodent species. Bandicoot dispersion was associated only with vertical vegetation diversity. The
importance of interspecific avoidance in contributing to the observed distribution patterns of both
dasyurid and rat species cannot be dismissed.
A critique of the use of nest boxes for the conservation of Leadbeater's possum, Gymnobelideus leadbeateri McCoy
Authors: Lindenmayer DB , Tanton MT , Cunningham RB
Published: June 2005

The provision of nest boxes has been proposed as a conservation strategy to overcome the predicted
shortage of nest sites for the arboreal marsupial Leadbeater's possum, Gymnobelideus leadbeateri.
Here estimates of the longevity of nest boxes are coupled with data on the habitat requirements of
G. leadbeateri. This approach is used to predict the number of boxes required in a nest box programme
for the conservation of the species. The practicality of implementing a nest box programme based on
these predictions is discussed.
Distribution of the tammar, Macropus eugenii, and the relationships of populations as determined by cranial morphometrics
Authors: Poole WE , Wood JT , Simms NG
Published: June 2005

Apparently once widespread throughout dense thickets in south-western Australia, the tammar is now
much restricted in its distribution. On mainland Australia, isolated populations still persist in Western
Australia, but in South Australia, where there is little remaining evidence to confirm that it extended
beyond Eyre Peninsula, the wallaby is probably close to extinction. All originally recorded populations
on five islands in Western Australia remain, but in South Australia all natural island populations,
other than those on Kangaroo I., appear to be extinct.
Morphometric analyses of crania representative of most known populations provide a means of
assessing their relationships. Canonical variate analysis, the derivation of Mahalanobis distances and
subsequent calculation of minimum spanning trees supported the existence of affinities within three
major regional groups-a group predominantly from Western Australia, a group from Kangaroo and
Greenly Is, South Australia, and a group from New Zealand-all apparently related via a population
from Eyre Peninsula, presumably representative of a former widespread mainland population. By cranial
criteria, feral tammars established in New Zealand are South Australian in origin although probably
not introduced from Kangaroo I.
Distribution and Status of the Northern nailtail wallaby, Onychogalea unguifera (Gould, 1841)
Authors: Ingleby S
Published: June 2005

Past and present distributions of 0. unguifera were compared using data from museums, explorers'
records and field surveys conducted during 1986-88. There is little evidence of a decline in geographical
distribution or abundance of this species during the last century, although numbers may have declined
locally in parts of the West Kimberley in Western Australia. At present 0. unguifera is moderately
common between latitudes 16� and 19�S. in the Northern Territory and western Queensland and in the
East Kimberley region of Western Australia. It is uncommon towards the northern and southern limits
of its range in each State. These limits correspond to latitudes 12�-14�S. and 20�-22�S. respectively.
0. unguifera appears to be under no immediate threat. However, its preferred habitats are poorly
represented in National Parks and other conservation reserves throughout northern Australia, and this
situation should be remedied.
Home Range and Activity Patterns of Red Foxes in Nadgee Nature Reserve.
Authors: Phillips M , Catling PC
Published: June 2005

Three adult red foxes (Vulpes vulpes) in a 20-km2 wilderness area of coastal south-eastern Australia
were studied during pre-denning and denning. Home ranges were defined by geographic featues, but
not by roads. The foxes occupied exclusive home ranges, and observations suggest that they were
territorial and existed alone or, at most, in mated pairs. Home-range sizes were small (1.2-5.2 km2)
compared with those in North America and Europe, but similar to those in England and Wales.
During denning the female's activity became almost entirely diurnal. When not active, the vixen
was with the cubs. Male activity during denning was nocturnal, but, as found for the female, inactive
periods were spent near the suspected den-site in his home range.
Habitats that were frequented most by all foxes were those with the highest abundance of either
small or medium-sized mammals. Dry sclerophyll forest was used consistently by all foxes but heathland
and the beaches were rarely frequented. Small and medium-sized mammals, which were abundant in
all habitats except the beach and heathland, made up 52.6% of items in the scats.
Leptospiral Infection in Common Brushtail Possums (Trichosurus Vulpecula) From Lowland Podocarp/Mixed Hardwood Forest in New Zealand.
Authors: Cowan PE , Blackmore DK , Marshall RB
Published: June 2005

A survey of 261 common brushtail possums (Trichosurus vulpecula) from New Zealand lowland podocarp/mixed hardwood forest showed 34% of possums with antibodies to Leptospira interrogans serovar balcanica, 35% with antibodies to serovar hardjo, and isolation of balcanica leptospires from 23% of kidney cultures. One possum showed a titre to serovar ballum, leptospires of which were subsequently isolated in culture. Seroprevalences and isolation rates were similar in mature males and females, and increased with age. Sexually immature possums were rarely infected, but recently matured animals had significant rates of infection. Seroprevalence was elevated during the breeding season, suggesting that primary infections were generally acquired in association with sexual maturity and mating. There was no significant association between prevalence of infection and genotype, based on 8 polymorphic proteins. Infection had no significant effect on various indices of possum condition. In their response to infection, possums displayed characteristics typical of a maintenance host.
Temporal Decline of 1080 Within Meat Baits Used for Control of Wild Dogs in New South Wales.
Authors: Fleming PJS , Parker RW
Published: June 2005

Short- and long-term trials were conducted to determine the rate of decline of 1080 (sodium fluoroacetate) in meat baits used for poisoning wild dogs. Baits were injected with 0.2 ml of standard 1080 solution (nominal dose of 6.00 mg of pure 1080 per bait) and placed in the field. In the long-term trial, 10 baits were collected at 7 intervals between 3 h and 226 days, and analysed for residual 1080 by liquid chromatography. The recoverable 1080 content declined greatly over the first 48 days, although at 226 days all 10 baits retained some 1080. By 42.4 days the mean residual level of 1080 in the baits was predicted to be less than the theoretical LD99 for wild dogs. At the time of distribution, baits contained less than the LD50 for an average-sized eastern quoll. The LD99 for domestic cattle-dogs was predicted to be still present in baits at 72.9 days. Loss of 1080 from these baits was not correlated with rainfall, temperature or humidity. In the short-term trial, 10 baits were collected at 11 intervals up to 200 h. The recoverable 1080 content decreased by 3.09 mg (61% of the injected dose) within the first hour after injection and declined to a low of 2.70 mg at hour 50. The level of recovered 1080 then rose to 73% of the injected dose at hour 150.
Feral Cats (Felis Catus L.) On New Zealand Farmland. I. Home Range.
Authors: Langham NPE , Porter RER
Published: June 2005

The movements of a population of feral cats (Felis catus) were monitored on New Zealand farmland
over three years by means of radiotelemetry. The number of resident males on the 5.2-km2 study area
varied from 5 to 9, averaging 1.34 per km2, compared with 10-13 females, averaging 2.19 per km2.
The average density over three years was 3.47 cats per km2.
The nocturnal home range was significantly larger than the diurnal home range in both sexes.
Adult female's home ranges overlapped considerably; adult males tended to occupy exclusive home
ranges or territories with little overlap, but including those of several females. Adult males and females
that used barns as den sites were mainly nocturnal and had larger home ranges than females denning
in vegetation.
Females showed no consistent change in home-range size with season, although those breeding in
barns had larger home ranges in summer. Adult males had larger territories in summer and winter.
Dispersing subadult males had a similar home range to adult males. Death or disappearance of a
dominant male allcwed new males to occupy the vacated territory. Two subadults were tracked by day
until they became adult and acquired territories within the study area.
Population dynamics of the common wallaroo (Macropus robustus erubescens) in arid New South Wales
Authors: Clancy TF , Croft DB
Published: June 2005

The population dynamics of the common wallaroo or euro (Macropus robustus erubescens) were
investigated in two adjacent sites in far western New South Wales. Wallaroo densities were generally
higher in a site of high relief (South Ridge) than in one of low relief (South Sandstone); however, both
sites exhibited large fluctuations in numbers (ranges of 2.23-18.31 per km*2 and 3.48-19.99 per km*2,
respectively). The proportion of adult males relative to adult females was significantly higher in South
Sandstone (c. 1.1 : 1) than in South Ridge (c. 0.4: 1), indicating a difference in habitat usage by the
sexes. At both sites, fluctuations in overall density were best explained by changes in the density of
adult females; however, the relative importance of changes in the numbers of other size-sex classes in
determining density fluctuations differed between the two sites. Total density was significantly related
to the previous rainfall regime in South Ridge but not in South Sandstone. Reproductive condition of
females and survivorship of young were related to environmental conditions. Adult mortality ranged
from 4.55 to 25.81% per year and adult survivorship was positively correlated with the abundance of
grass. Evidence is presented to support the hypothesis that dispersal of subadults is predominantly a
male phenomenon.
Determination of oestrus in the female tammar, Macropus eugenii, by analysis of cellular composition of smears from the reproductive tract
Authors: Poole WE , Westcott M , Simms NG
Published: June 2005

Oestrus in the tammar, Macropus eugenii, was diagnosed from observed changes in the proportion of
partly cornified epithelial cells in smears taken from the anterior urogenital sinus throughout oestrous
cycles in both pregnant and nonpregnant females. Intra- and inter-animal variability in counts of cells
necessitated smoothing of the data, which were also rescaled to a cycle length of 30 days. A simple
non-sinusoidal periodic model was fitted to the proportions of partly cornified cells in each cycle.
The analysis confirmed a common structure across cycles. A marked and consistent feature of this
structure was a decrease from about 80 to 20% in partly cornified cells commencing just before
oestrus, a feature tested as a detector of oestrus. The procedure proved to be reliable, but to invoke
a rule developed for this purpose, a run of daily smears was needed. The maintenance of a routine
record for individual animals over 10-1 1 days, including oestrus, may seem onerous but in practice has
proved to be more dependable than reliance on chance observations of matings or a retained seminal
plug. With experience, an empirical diagnosis of oestrus can be achieved with a shorter run of smears.
Gradient analysis of a tropical herpetofauna: distribution patterns of terrestrial reptiles and amphibians in Stage III of Kakadu National Park, Australia
Authors: Woinarski JCZ , Gambold N
Published: June 2005

The herpetofauna of Stage 111 of Kakadu National Park comprises 102 native reptile species and 24
native frog species. Distribution patterns of this herpetofauna are described in relation to derived
environmental axes. Most species were associated with a gradient of substrate and moisture availability.
Few species were associated with a gradient of vegetation structure. The reptile fauna included a
distinctive assemblage restricted to rocky sandstone escarpment, a virtually ubiquitous group of species,
an open-forest/woodland assemblage, a lowland wet forest assemblage, and several species with
idiosyncratic ranges. Species richness was highest in rocky areas, and this was particularly so for
geckos. The frog fauna also included a distinctive sandstone assemblage, as well as a lowland clay-flat
assemblage, a wet forest assemblage and two species with idiosyncratic ranges. For most taxonomic
subsets considered there is a pattern of species replacement along the derived environmental gradient.
The herpetofauna of monsoon forests is depauperate.
Entanglement of Australian fur seals in man-made debris in Tasmanian waters
Authors: Pemberton D , Brothers NP , Kirkwood R
Published: June 2005

Observations were made of neck collars of man-made debris on Australian fur seals in Tasmanian
waters. These included 47 sightings on six breeding colonies in Bass Strait and 22 on five haul-out sites,
one in Bass Strait and four in southern Tasmania. The incidence of entanglement of the population
calculated for the southern waters was 1.9 +/- 0.7% (n = 10). Of items identified, polyethylene trawl-net
accounted for 40% of neck collars, polypropylene packaging straps 30%, monofilament nets (gill nets)
15% and nylon rope 15%. A variety of colours of polypropylene straps were observed, which indicate
a variety of sources of the material. The majority, 66%, of entangled animals were juveniles or
subadults; a further 16% were non-breeding adult males and 18% were breeding adults. The neck
collars were causing obvious physical injury to 73% of the animals observed and in the two worst cases
the collars had cut through the oesophagus. Collars made of traw1.net are the greatest cause for concern
as they are large, buoyant and originate from a fishery that is increasing in size and produces a lot of
debris. The high incidence of neck collars on Australian fur seals indicates that entanglement is a
potential threat to the seal population. This effect may not be reflected in the number of pups born
until the animals currently being entangled reach breeding age.