bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Crocodylus johnstoni in the McKinlay River Area N. T, VI.* Nesting Biology
Authors: Webb GJW , Manolis SC , Buckworth R
Published: June 2005

In the McKinlay River area most female C. johnstoni mature at 74-78 cm snout-vent length (SVL), and
11-14 years of age, whereas maies are about 87 cm SYL and 16-17 years of age. Adult sex ratios in the
field are lM:3-4F. There is a well defined, brief nesting period in late August and early September, and
the nests are typical 'hole' nests excavated in sand or other friable substrates close to permanent water.
Mean clutch size is 13.2 � 3.2 eggs (� SD) and mean egg dimensions are: length 6.64 � 0.26 cm, breadth
4.19 � 0.19 cm and weight 68.2 � 8.0 g. There is a variable but significant increase in egg size with
clutch size, and large clutches of large eggs tend to be laid earlier in the nesting season than small clutches
of small eggs. From 2 to 4% of eggs are infertile. Nest temperatures show considerable daily variation
and baseline levels differ between shaded and exposed nest sites. Incubation times are temperaturedependent
and range from 9 to 14 weeks. Females excavate nests at hatching time, but attend the nests
little, ifat all, during incubation. Hatchlings are 11.2 � 0.5 cm SVL and weigh 42.0 � 6.1 g. Formulae for
predicting egg and hatchling dimensions from each other are presented.
A preliminary method for aging C. johnstoni embryos is described. Artificial incubation at 26�, 30�
and 34�C, respectively, resulted in 0, 63% and 21% survival; at 26 and 34�C physically deformed
embryos were common. Hatching success is correlated with the age at which eggs are transported to
incubators. Sex determinantion is influenced by incubation temperature, and at temperatures we tested
between 26 and 34�C, females predominated; males were produced at 31-32�C. Histological
examination of females from high-temperature incubation (34�C) indicated slight hermaphroditic
tendencies in two of 35 animals examined; their status remains to be clarified. The temperature-sensitive
period for sex determination appears to be between 20 and 57 days of age (30�C equivalent
ages), but this may well vary with incubation temperature, as in Alligator mississippiensis. Egg losses due
to predators (particular varanid lizards) were estimated as 64%, although they may have been increased
by our interference with nests. Eggs are also lost to flooding and overheating, and a 60-70% annual egg
mortality may be common. In one experiment, hatchling mortality was estimated at 98% within the first
year.
An egg and/or hatchling harvest balanced by a proportional return to the wild of raised 1-year-olds
(5% and 10% of eggs and hatchlings collected respectively) is a potential strategy through which
sustained-yield harvesting could be introduced into a conservation-management program.
Studies on the Arboreal Marsupial Fauna of Eucalypt Forests Being Harvested for Wood Pulp at Eden, N.s.w. Iii. Relationships Between Faunal Densities, Eucalypt Occurrence and Foliage Nutrients, and Soil Parent Materials.
Authors: Braithwaite LW , Turner J , Kelly J
Published: June 2005

[See FA 45, 478-479] Felling crews provided information on the species and number of animals displaced during logging operations in 5010 ha of forest clear felled between May 1980 and Sept. 1981. Overall, 898 individuals of 8 species of glider and opossum were recorded. Geological data were also collected. The data were analysed together with published information on tree species within 22 recognizable communities and NPK concn. in Eucalptus foliage. The fauna tended to be concentrated in communities with Eucalyptus spp. with high nutrient concn. in their foliage. These communities occurred mostly on soils of one geological formation (Devonian intrusives) recognized in the district for the production of highly fertile soils.
Population Ecology of the Sugar Glider, Petaurus breviceps, in a System of Fragmented Habitats
Authors: Suckling G. C.
Published: June 2005

The population ecology of the sugar glider, Petaurus breviceps, was examined during a 31-month
capture-mark-recapture study in a 20-ha system of remnant native vegetation in farmland. Overall
population densities ranged from 6.1 ha- 1 in autumn to 2.9 ha- 1 in summer. However, the various
areas composing the system had different management histories and were found to contain varying
densities of P. breviceps. Differences in density were most readily explained by differences in abundance
of black wattles, Acacia mearnsii, which provided an important autumn and winter food source. At least
75% of animals lived in groups containing up to seven adults from up to four age-classes (usually three
males and four females). There was a single breeding season beginning in late winter or early spring each
year; at least 80% of female P. breviceps surviving to the breeding season following their birth produced
young, and almost all adult females in other age classes bred in any year. Of all litters born in the study
site, 81% were twins, and the remainder were of single young. The overall mean litter size was 1.8. Up to
50% of all offspring left their group of origin by the beginning of the breeding season following their
birth, though some older gliders. apparently unattached to any group, also dispersed. A roadside strip of
forest, between one and four trees wide, was found to facilitate dispersal into a vacant habitat within the
system studied.
Eucalyptus Pollen in the Diet of the Feathertail Glider, Acrobates Pygmaeus (Marsupialia: Burramyidae).
Authors: Turner V
Published: June 2005

Faecal samples were collected from gliders in a dry sclerophyllous forest in Victoria at intervals from Aug. 1980 until Aug. 1982. Eucalyptus pollen was the most abundant item in the samples. The pollen grains were mostly empty, and it was assumed that pollen provided the glider with protein. The potential importance of A. pygmaeus as a pollinator is discussed.
A Systematic Technique for Census of Sugar Gliders and other Small Arboreal Mammals
Authors: Smith AP , Phillips K
Published: June 2005

A systematic technique is described for the census of small arboreal mammals, by placing traps on
portable wooden brackets attached to trees in a grid formation. The technique, and some effects of trap
position and trapping season, was evaluated in a 24-ha patch of open forest near Armidale, N.S.W.
Trapping season and the species of tree supporting traps was found to influence the success of sugar
glider capture.
Breeding, Distribution and Status of Barrow-nesting Petrels at Maqaurie Island
Authors: Brothers NP
Published: June 2005

A survey of burrow-nesting petrels on Macquarie I. between 1975 and 1982 confirmed breeding of the
white-headed petrel Pterodroma lessoni, blue petrel Halobaena caerulea, Antarctic prion Pachyptila
desolata, fairy prion Pachyptila turtur, sooty sheanvater Pufinus griseus and common diving petrel
Pelecanoides urinatriw. A further six species were recorded. The population size of all burrow-nesting
petrels has been adversely modified by alien fauna introduced last century. Of the six species breeding,
one is stable, two are diminishing and three are present in very low numbers. Current deterioration of
their status is localized and with proper management there may be recovery, particularly of the three last
species.
The Food and Feeding Ecology of the Cattle Egret, Ardeola Ibis, When Nesting in South-East Queensland.
Authors: Mckilligan NG
Published: June 2005

The food of the cattle egret (Bubulcus ibis (Ardeola ibis)) in south-eastern Queensland was determined from boluses regurgitated by advanced chicks over 3 breeding seasons and from the stomach contents of 21 adults. They ate a wide range of animals, mainly Acrididae (including Patanga guttulosa (Wlk.) (Austracris guttulosa) and Gastrimargus musicus (F.)), but also skinks, frogs, cicadas and spiders. They fed almost entirely on pastures, preferring moist to dry situations. Most fed in association with cattle, and pecked ticks (Boophilus microplus (Can.)) and flies (Lucilia sericata (Mg.)) directly off animals.
The Breeding Ecology of Twelve Species of Diurnal Raptor in North-Western Victoria.
Authors: Baker-Gabb DJ
Published: June 2005

Rabbits were the main food of 8 raptor species studied in Victoria, Australia, both in terms of numbers eaten (40-75%) and biomass consumed (60-92%). In 4 months the raptor guild consumed about 14% of the immature rabbits in the study area.
Movements of Lorikeets With an Artificially Supplemented Diet.
Authors: Cannon CE
Published: June 2005

Tourists at a site in Queensland, Australia, by feeding the lorikeets (Trichoglossus spp.) provided a permanent source of food that probably reduced, but did not mask, the nomadism of the local lorikeet population.
Native and Exotic Birds in a Suburban Habitat
Authors: Green RJ
Published: June 2005

The exotic and native birds in the eastern suburbs of Melbourne, including the campus of Monash
University, were studied during 1974-77. The proportion of exotic to native birds was far greater in
suburban than native habitats. 'Total native vegetation' was found to be the most influential factor
governing the number of both native and exotic birds, showing a positive and a negative correlation
respectively. 'Total exotic plants' and various vegetation heights were also correlated, but were less
important. The ground was the major foraging site for birds as a whole, followed by Eucalyptus spp.
Native birds foraged proportionately more than did exotic birds on native rather than exotic plants, and
in trees or shrubs rather than on the ground. When not foraging, they were seen proportionately more
often than the exotics on native rather than exotic plants, and the exotics were seen proportionately far
more often than the natives on artificial structures.
Some Aspects of the Ecology of the Mammal Fauna of the Jabiluka Area. Northern Territory
Authors: Kerle JA , Burgman MA
Published: June 2005

On the Pancontinental Jabiluka exploration lease, between July 1979 and September 1981, mammals of
30 native and five introduced species were recorded, with an overall trap success rate of 5% and an
average of 1.9 sightings per spotlight-hour. Three major groups of mammal species corresponded to the
primary groupings of vegetation in the study area: riparian woodland, dryland woodland and open
forest, and sandstone. This last group was subdivided into three on site preferences. Two ungrouped
species were found in a variety of habitats. The distribution of mammals was very patchy, and their
abundance varied seasonally. This may result from rainfall patterns, fire occurrence and fire history, as
well as from landform and edaphic factors. The species responded to the variation in environment and
the consequent mosaic of habitats by three strategies: by rapid response to changes in microhabitat
through increased dispersion or moving to more favourable habitats, by restriction to stable habitats, or
by adaptation to a variety of habitats.
The Diets of Sminthopsis Murina and Antechinus Stuartii (Marsupialia: Dasyuridae) in Sympatry.
Authors: Fox BJ , Archer E
Published: June 2005

In its diet, S. murina is similar to other small dasyurids that have been studied, being qualitatively
opportunistic in that it feeds on a wide range of the arthropod prey available to it. Quantitatively,
however, S, murina ingests significantly more Scarabaeidae, Blattodea, Coleoptera, Lepidoptera and
larvae, and fewer Formicidae, Orthoptera and Isopoda than are available in pitfall traps during
spring-summer, and so cannot be considered opportunistic in this sense. In autumn-winter it also takes
significantly more Araneida and fewer Diptera, while Lepidoptera, Orthoptera and larvae are consumed
only in the proportions in which they occur. A. stuartii consumes significantly more Coleoptera,
Araneida and larvae than expected during the spring-summer season. In autumn-winter, it consumes
significantly more Blattodea, Orthoptera and Arthropoda as well, but significantly fewer Formicidae
and Diptera.
Quantitatively, the two species differ significantly in the distribution of prey items for the
spring-summer diet, and also differ in the individual diet categories of Scarabaeidae and larva during
winter and for Arthropoda as well, in the total diet. The diet overlap is high (0.94) and there are
significant rank correlation coefficients for diet categories, indicating no difference in the order of prey
items in a qualitative sense. When the diets are analysed on the basis of habitat-season groups for each
'species' (including pitfall traps), neither habitat nor season is significant, but some of the samples are
quite small. The 'species' effect is significant but largely reflects a difference between the diet items
available (in pitfall traps) and those actually eaten by these two dasyurids. S. murina utilizes a wider
range of prey than A. stuurtii and has a greater niche breadth; however, neither species could be called a
diet specialist except in the broad sense ofinsectivores. Diet does not seem to be a significant component
of the strong, microhabitat-based, ecological separation of these species.
Use of Nest Boxes by Forest Vertebrates in Gippsland: Acceptance, Preference and Demand
Authors: Menkhorst PW
Published: June 2005

Twelve species of vertebrates occupied nest boxes located in foothill forest trees in Gippsland, Vic.,
between 1977 and 1980. Boxes varied in entrance diameter, height above ground, and orientation. Over
the study period 38% of boxes were found occupied and another 40% showed signs of having been
visited. Occupancies were higher at the site with fewer natural hollows. Seasonal use of boxes varied
between mammals and birds and between species. Boxes with small entrances were preferred, and low
boxes were avoided by all species except the brown antechinus. Preference for the highest boxes was
significant at one site only. Preference for diameter of entrance hole was significant for brown
antechinus, sugar glider and crimson rosella; height was significant for sugar glider and brown
antechinus; orientation was not significant for any species.
Carcass Muscle-Weight Distribution and Yield: A Comparision between Male and Female Grey Kangaroos, MAcropus giganteus
Authors: Hopwood PR , Griffiths DA
Published: June 2005

The yield of carcass muscle and its weight distribution are described in male and female grey kangaroos.
A redistribution of muscle-weight between forequarter and hindquarter began in males at approximately
31 kg empty body weight. Females did not undergo such a redistribution, nor did they reach the
body weight at which the redistribution occurred in males. Muscle-weight was a similar proportion of
body weight in both males and females.
Ground Surface Features Attributable to Feral Buffalo, Bubalus bubalis II. Their Relationship to the Abundance of Small Animal Species
Authors: Friend GR , Taylo r
Published: June 2005

Relationships between ground surface features attributable to feral buffalo (wallows, trails, pug marks
and dung pats) and the abundance of 116 small animal species (birds, reptiles, amphibians and
orthopterans) were explored by pattern analysis for both dry and wet seasons in a tropical monsoonal
area of northern Australia. The abundance of 33% of the bird, 39% of the reptile, 58% of the amphibian
and 63% ofthe orthopteran species recorded was related positively or negatively to the effects ofbuffalo.
Overall, 14 species displayed statistically significant relationships with the effects of buffalo. These
relationships constitute hypotheses for some of the consequences to fauna of the removal of buffalo.
Grasshoppers, and to a lesser extent birds, provided the greatest number of strong relationships, and
these two groups are recommended for inclusion in any future experiments or monitoring programs.
Results suggest that elimination of buffalo may benefit some animal species, but be to the detriment of
others.
Flock Size of Feeding Eastern and Pale-Headed Rosellas (Aves: Psittaciformes)
Authors: Cannon CE
Published: June 2005

Eastern rosellas, Platycercus eximius, and pale-headed rosellas, P. adscitus, fed in single-species flocks of
generally less than five birds. Eastern rosellas fed in larger groups, particularly at ground level, and
showed greater seasonal and daily changes in flock sizes than pale-headed rosellas. These interspecific
differences are attributed to: (1) their feeding stations; (2) the social structure of each species; (3) the
relative degree of aridity of the study areas.
The Sensitivity of Australian Animals to 1080 Poison. Vii. Native and Introduced Birds.
Authors: Mcilroy JC
Published: June 2005

Birds in Australia vary greatly in their sensitivity to 1080 poison (sodium monofluoroacetate). Median
lethal doses (LD*50s) range from 0.63 mg kg-1 for red-browed firetails, Emblema temporalis, to approximately
278 mg kg-' for the emu, Dromaius novaehollandiae. Significant differences occur between the
sensitivity of different groups of birds and may be related to differences in their metabolic rates. A few
species may also have developed a tolerance to 1080 from being exposed to indigenous plants that
contain fluoroacetate, or to insects and other animals which have fed on such plants. The most common
signs of 1080 poisoning among birds are depression, fluffed feathers, a reluctance to move, and
convulsions. Signs of poisoning first appeared among the species tested at 1-60 h after dosing, and
deaths follow between 1 h to almost 11 days after dosing. The susceptibility of 48 species of birds in
Australia to 1080 poisoning is discussed in relation to typical baits and poison concentrations used
against vertebrate pests. Theoretically, fewer types of birds are likely to be at risk from dingo-poisoning
than pig-poisoning campaigns that also use meat baits but higher concentrations of 1080. Individuals of
39 out of the 48 species could be at risk from rabbit and other pig-poisoning campaigns. The impact on
bird populations will depend, among other factors, on the amount of bait individuals eat and on the
poisoning methods employed.
Mecury Concentrations in Ten Species of Australian Waterfowl (Family Anatidae)
Authors: Bacher GJ , Norman FI
Published: June 2005

Total mercury concentrations in wing muscle of 10 species of waterfowl (Anatidae) collected during
1977 and 1978 in south-eastern Australia ranged from 0.08 � 0.04 (mean � SD) g g-1 wet weight in
Australian shelduck Tadorna tadornoides and Pacific black duck Anas superciliosa, to 0.17 � 0.08 g
g-1 in freckled duck Stictonetta naevosa. No significant differences in concentrations of mercury in
muscle were found between sexes or between juvenile and adult birds. Total mercury concentrations in
feathers were 3.01 � 0.09 g g-1 dry weight in Pacific black duck and 3.27 � 1.11 g g-1 in grey teal
Anas gibberifrons. A significant positive correlation (r= 0.7783; P<0.01) was found between mercury
concentrations in wing muscles and feathers of Pacific black duck.
Morphometric Analysis of Crocodylus novaeguineae from the Fly River Drainage, Papua New Guinea
Authors: Montague JJ
Published: June 2005

Formulae for predicting snout-vent length from 17 other body measurements and vice versa were
derived from data collected on 1073 wild Crocodylus novaeguineae. Equations for predicting live body
attributes from dried skulls also are presented. Relative growth and general growth form are described.
A 1:1 sex ratio was found for animals between 50 and 167 cm snout-vent length (SVL). Current laws in
Papua New Guinea are based on size criteria and protect wild breeding males. However, the laws do not
take into account the smaller breeding size of females and thus subject about 36% of adult females to
legal hunting mortality. Of all girth-related measures, neck girth was found to be the best predictor of
commercial value. New Guinea crocodiles have shorter tails, longer trunks and wider hind feet than
saltwater crocodiles, C. porosus; these differences may be related to ecological niche and habitat
separation in Papua New Guinea. The morphological characteristics of New Guinea crocodiles better
adapt them for life in marshes and swamps, while those of C. porosus better suit them for life in large,
open rivers and estuaries.
Variability in Grouping in the Eastern Grey Kangaroo, Macropus giganteus I. Group Density and Group Size
Authors: Southwell CJ
Published: June 2005

The effects of season, population density and habitat on group density and group size in the eastern grey
kangaroo were examined. In an open forest habitat, both group density and group size increased
significantly with population density, but no seasonal variation was detected for either parameter. The
relationship with population density was logarithmic for group density and exponential for group size.
In a tall shrubland habitat both group density and group size increased with population density, but the
range of population densities sampled was too narrow for the nature of the relationships to be
determined. Group density was significantly higher, and group size significantly lower, in the tall
shrubland than in the open forest. Possible reasons for this difference in spatial dispersion between
habitats are discussed.
Variability in Grouping in the Eastern Grey Kangaroo, Macropus giganteus II. Dynamics of Group Formation
Authors: Southwell CJ
Published: June 2005

The effects of season, population density and habitat on aspects of group formation in the eastern grey
kangaroo were examined. The rate at which groups join and split increased exponentially with
population density, but did not vary with season or habitat. In general, large males and females with
young-at-foot were seen alone more frequently than small males, females with pouch young or females
with no young. The high frequency oflone large males may be due to a tendency to move alone from one
group to another to check the oestrous condition of females, but females with young-at-foot appear to be
relatively solitary. Association among population classes in groups of two or more was highly
variable.
A Sighting Device for Estimating Molar Index to Determine Age from Skulls
Authors: Knowlton JE
Published: June 2005

The use of a sighting device for estimation of molar index in macropodid skulls is shown to reduce
variation between different observer estimates by 41% for a series of tammar wallaby skulls. Age
determination from molar index should improve in accuracy when a device is used. A description of the
device and procedure for its use are given.
Reproduction in Antechinomys laniger ('spenceri' Form) ( Marsupialia : Dasyuridae): Field and Laboratory
Authors: Woolley PA
Published: June 2005

Antechinomys laniger is polyoestrous, and animals from Sandringham Station in south-western
Queensland are in breeding condition from midwinter to midsummer. Laboratory observations suggest
that photoperiod may be the proximate factor controlling the timing of the breeding season. Females
enter oestrus up to six times during the season, and as the season progresses the length of the oestrous
cycle decreases. The estimated length of gestation is 12 days or less. Females may rear up to six young.
The young are weaned when about 3 months old and become sexually mature at 11.5 months. Both
males and females are potentially capable of breeding in more than one season. Higher than average
rainfall may have led to a decline in the numbers of A. laniger on Sandringham Station.
The Reaction of Sminthopsis crassicaudta to Meat Baits Containing 1080: Implications for Assessing Risk to Non-Target Species
Authors: Sinclair RG , Bird PL
Published: June 2005

Sminthopsis crassicaudata is a small dasyurid marsupial that may be exposed to 1080 poison during the
baiting of dingoes with fresh meat baits. A group of Sminthopsis were conditioned to feed freely on meat
in the laboratory, but when they were offered meat poisoned with 1080 their intake was significantly
reduced and they vomited. Some of them refused to eat meat altogether even when a choice of poisoned
and unpoisoned meat was provided. Fewer Sminthopsis died after eating poisoned meat than expected
from the LD*50 estimated by a standard technique of oral dosing with 1080 in water. Loss of appetite and
aversion to the taste and/or smell of meat containing 1080 are discussed as reasons for the low intake of
poisoned meat. Implications of these results are considered in the light of assessing risk to other
non-target species exposed to baits containing 1080.
Feeding Ecology and Breeding of Zebra Finches in Farmland in Northern Victoria.
Authors: Zann R , Straw B
Published: June 2005

Study was of zebra finch [Taeniopygia castanotis].
Further Observations on Breeding of Dermochelys coriacea in Australia
Authors: Limpus CJ , McCachlan NC , Miller JD
Published: June 2005

In Australia, breeding of the cosmopolitan leatherback turtle, Dermochelys coriacea, is concentrated on
22.3 km of beach near Wreck Rock (24�19'S., 151�58'E.) in south-east Queensland. Up to three females
nest there in most years. The mean size of 14 clutches was 82.79; the mean hatching success was 15.3%
for clutches on the beach and 51.8% for these moved to dunes near the laboratory. The high level of
failure is attributed to early embryonic death, probably caused by the fine sand, when damp, restricting
gas exchange round the eggs.
The Flatback Turtle, Chelonia depressa, in Queensland: Reproductive Periodicity, Philopatry and Recruitment
Authors: Limpus CJ , Fleay A , Baker V
Published: June 2005

The Bundaberg coast is the southern limit for reproduction by Chelonia depressa in eastern Australia.
Here the species lays 2.84 � 0.78 (mean � SD) clutches per breeding season with a renesting interval of
15.99 � 1.89 days. When successful nesting does not occur on a nesting crawl the female returns after
1.17 � 1.07 d for another attempt. The mean remigration interval is 2.65 � 0.92 years and the average
female is estimated to have a reproductive life of between 2.05 and 2.55 breeding seasons. The
estimated annual recruitment rate of neonate nesting females into this colony is 27.2 � 10.8% of the
population. The females return repetitively with a high degree of accuracy to the same small nesting
beach within a single breeding season and in successive breeding seasons. The reproductive strategy of
C. depressa compared with that of other sea turtles appears to involve an increase in hatchling size, to
reduce predation, achieved by laying relatively large eggs. However, only a few small clutches are laid in
a breeding season, so that seasonal fecundity for the species is low relative to that in other sea turtles such
as C. mydas. Because its reproductive life is longer, C. depressa has a total fecundity only slightly less
than that of C. mydas.
The Ecology of the Dingo in North-Eastern New South Wales I. Movements and Home Range
Authors: Harden RH
Published: June 2005

During 1970-74, radio transmitters were attached to five adult and four juvenile dingoes trapped on the
escarpment 50 km east ofArmidale, N.S.W. These animals were radio-tracked for a total of 515 (10-83)
days, and 4058 fixes (6-1248 per animal) were obtained. Some of the animals were tracked almost
continuously for periods of 100 h. The dingoes exhibited two types of movement: one, dubbed searching
movement, appeared to be associated with hunting; the other, dubbed exploratory movement, was used
when shifting the hunting locality and in traverses of the home range. These traverses are postulated to
be related to maintaining communication between animals. The dingoes were active throughout the day
with peaks of activity at dawn and dusk. The distances travelled per hour in the diurnal and nocturnal
periods were equal. Activity periods were short (65% <1 hour) and interspersed with shorter rest
periods. During the radio-tracking period, the average home range of adults was 2700 ha. There was
evidence that this size of range did not increase over periods longer than the radio-tracking. The
implications of this for control programs are discussed.
The Ecology of the Dingo in North-Eastern New South Wales. 2. Diet.
Authors: Robertshaw JD , Harden RH
Published: June 2005

The diet of two populations of dingoes, from adjacent areas different in topography and altitude, from
1969 to 1974, were similar. The remains of native mammals were found in over 90% of the scats, and
Wallabia bicolor was the most important single prey species in both areas. The high frequency of large
native species in this and other studies of dingoes' diet suggested that dingoes may be essentially
predators of the larger native species. The mammalian composition of the diet varied significantly
between May-October and November-April; this reflected a change in the hunting strategy ofthe dingo,
as an outcome of behavioural necessity rather than a change in the relative abundances of prey species.
Concurrent with an increase in the dingo population, the composition of the diet changed between 1972
and 1974, with an increased concentration on larger prey species in the later years; this also indicated a
change in hunting strategy. Large prey species provide potentially more biomass per unit kill; and this
change in hunting strategy may be a behavioural mechanism for buffering dingo populations against
either increases in their own population or decreases in those of their prey.
Sightability as a Factor in Aerial Survey of Bird Species and Communities
Authors: Broome LS
Published: June 2005

Experimental aerial and ground censuses of waterbirds were conducted on three small, isolated bodies
of water on the New England tablelands of New South Wales. The flying height at which sightability was
optimized for the most common species was 30 m. Aerial and ground counts were significantly
correlated for most species on the three watar bodies. Black swan, swamphen, coots, musk ducks and
maned ducks were counted in equivalent or greater numbers from the air than from the ground on at
least one water body. Other species were counted in lower numbers from the air than from the ground. A
fairly high precision in the aerial-ground relationship for the most abundant species indicates that aerial
survey can be a useful procedure for obtaining indices or estimates of the population sizes of these
species. However, differences in sightability between species and between types of water body indicate
that indices should be used and interpreted with caution. Other bird species from a variety of habitat
types which are also amenable to aerial survey are discussed, and some recommendations for aerial
surveys of birds are provided.
Density and DIstribution of Emus
Authors: Grice D , Caughley G , Short J
Published: June 2005

Emus are most abundant in areas used for extensive sheep grazing. Their density is lower in
grain-growing areas, lower still in areas used for extensive cattle grazing, and lowest in those areas that
are not used for any commercial purpose (mainly deserts). This pattern of emu density appears to be
linked to climatic factors determining the availability of food during breeding, to the availability of
naturally occurring and artificially stored surface water, and to the prevalence of dingos.
Reproductive Periodicity in a Population of Crested Terns, Sterna bergii Lichtenstein in South Australia
Authors: Dunlop JN
Published: June 2005

Crested terns breeding in the Fremantle area of south-western Australia nest over an 8-month period,
from early April to early November. However, laying is markedly bimodal, with subseasons in autumn
and spring. Observations of individually marked breeding crested terns indicated a sedentary
population utilizing a number of alternative, traditional colony sites all of which were within the study
area. Individual crested terns tended to lay in the same part of the season as in the previous year.
Colonies made up of terns with similarly phased reproductive cycles formed at different times within
the protracted laying period. Individuals completed only one nesting cycle within a season, remaining in
breeding condition for approximately 11-13 weeks. Breeding cycles were broadly circannual but
potentially sub-annual. Despite superficial similarities at the populational level, this laying pattern
differs markedly from that recorded for the silver gull in the same area. The pattern of breeding shown
by crested terns therefore provides a second model to explain the double-nesting phenomenon observed
in a number of seabird species on the western Australian coastline.
The Diet of the Green Turtle, Chelonia Mydas (L.), In Torres Strait.
Authors: Garnett ST , Price IR , Scott FJ
Published: June 2005

The principal genera of plants consumed by green turtles in Torres Strait were Hypnea, Laurencia, Vadalia, Sargassum and Thalassia. Although some selectivity for soft red algae was detected, no evidence was found to support the theory that turtles feed on algae only when seagrasses are unavailable, but nor do algae appear to confer a nutritional advantage on those animals than eat them. Geographical variation in green turtle diets appears to be determined by the relative availability of seagrass and algae and the structure of the local herbivore community.
The Fate of Young Radiotagged CommonBrushtail Possums, Trichosurus vulpecula, in New Zealand Lowland Forest
Authors: Ward GD
Published: June 2005

Twenty-nine newly independent juvenile common brushtail possums were radiotracked in dense
lowland forest. In their first year of independence 10 died in the 16-ha area where they were first caught;
six (including five males) dispersed. One of the males moved 6.8 km in the course of two nights. Contact
with two animals was lost, and eleven (including nine females) remained as residents on their maternal
home ranges.
Ecological Studies of a Population of Antechinus bellus (Marsupialia : Dasyuridae) in Troprical Northern Australia
Authors: Friend GR
Published: June 2005

A population of the fawn antechinus, Antechinus bellus, was monitored in tropical open-forest of the
Northern Territory between June 1980 and January 1983. Sixty males and 66 females were captured and
marked over 9525 trap-nights. The species exhibits the typical Antechinus life-history strategy,
characterized by a highly synchronized mating period after which all males die. This field evidence
supports earlier speculation based on laboratory studies and limited museum collections. Mating occurs
over 2 weeks in late August and parturitions about a month later. Young remain attached to the nipples
for 4-5 weeks and are suckled in the nest until weaned in early January. Reproduction patterns,
population dynamics and changes in relative abundance resemble those in A. stuartii from
south-eastern Australia. The life-history strategy of A. bellus contrasts with that of the regionally
sympatric Parantechinus bilarni, in which fecundity is lower and males may survive to breed a second
time. The strategy exemplified by A. bellus does not seem optimal for the wet-dry tropics, given the
erratic nature of rainfall in the early wet season, which may influence the relative abundance of the insect
food resource available for lactating females and newly weaned juveniles. However the existence of
patches of structurally diverse open-forest may moderate environmental fluctuations and enhance
resource availability, and thus be of critical importance for the survival of local populations.
An Examination of Sodium, Potassium and OSmotic Concentrations in Blood and Urine of Arid-Zone Rabbits in Seasonal Field Conditions and in the Labortary
Authors: Wood DH , Lee AK
Published: June 2005

The sodium, potassium and osmotic concentrations of blood and urine, and serum protein and PCV of
the blood were examined in rabbits living in stony-hill habitat and sand-dune habitat in the arid zone of
far western New South Wales. Samples were collected in dry summer, dry winter, wet summer and wet
winter seasons. Rabbits from the same region were brought into the laboratory and fed dry lucerne chaff
with ad libitum or restricted water, or 5-10% salt-enriched chaff with ad libitum or restricted water, and
their blood and urine parameters measured. Rabbits became acclimated to water shortage (restriction to
50% of total food and water intake) over a 50-day period. Similar restriction of water with the
salt-enriched diet caused reduction of food intake to starvation level; the maximum mean sodium
concentration in the urine of these rabbits was 476 mmoll-1. Habitat did not influence the degree of
dehydration of field animals; the effect of season was marked, resulting in a range in mean plasma
osaotic pressure between cold wet and hot dry seasons of 260-326 mosmoll-l. Generally urine
concentrations were high under hot and/or dry seasons (maximum mean total oxmotic pressure
2719 mosmoll-1 and low only in the cold wet season (minimum mean total osmotic pressure
5 13 mosmol l-1). Inability to produce urine with a high osmotic concentration or high sodium content
compared with rodents endemic to arid areas suggests that plasticity in behaviour towards minimizing
water losses, and high grazing selectivity maximizing intake of food with a high water content and
without a high salt load, enable rabbits to survive in arid habitats often devoid of free water for long
periods.
The European Rabbit Flea, Spilopsyllus Cuniculi, in South-Western Australia.
Authors: King DR , Oliver AJ , Wheeler SH
Published: June 2005

Spilopsyllus cuniculi, a vector of myxomatosis, was introduced by various methods at several sites in the south-west of Western Australia in May 1969 for the biological control of rabbits. It spread rapidly and within 14 months all rabbits collected within about 5 km of one of the release sites were infested with fleas. Further introductions of the flea during the past decade have resulted in a wide distribution for it throughout the south-west of the state. Flea numbers fluctuate seasonally and are highest in reproductively active female rabbits in winter and spring. Since the introductions of the flea, the timing of epizootics of myxomatosis has changed and their effect on rabbit populations has increased.
Age-related Differences in Behaviour and Ecology of Crimson Rosellas, Platycercus elegans, during the Non-Breeding Season
Authors: Margrath RD , Lill a
Published: June 2005

Habitat use, diet and behaviour of adult and immature crimson rosellas were compared in the
non-breeding season in a wet sclerophyll forest in southern Victoria. Immature birds occurred mainly at
forest edges and were more patchily distributed than adults. They also differed quantitatively in their
diet, spent more time feeding and less time resting, and occurred in larger flocks than adults. It is
suggested that these dietary and behavioural differences probably result from either enforced use of
inferior habitats and food resources, or less efficient foraging.
Comparison of Techniques to Recover Stomach Contents From Penguins.
Authors: Montague TL , Cullen JM
Published: June 2005

A 20-ml syringe was extended, using a PVC tube attachment of diameter 4 mm internal, 5.5 mm external, rounded at the distal end and inserted 30 cm into the oesophagus and stomach of adult little penguins (Eudyptula minor). Ipecacuanha (6 ml concentrate in 20 ml solution) produced emesis in 21 min on average. Birds with stomach ulcers, or malnourished, occasionally died, so those under 850 g should not be given ipecacuanha. Copper sulphate 1% (0.06M), 20 ml, produced emesis in 8 min. Either of those 2 emetics was suitable for obtaining the stomach contents and there was no need to kill the birds. Treated birds were marked, and not treated again if recaptured. Potassium antimony tartrate had too little margin between the effective and the lethal dose, and there was no response to injections of apomorphine 0.05 mg/kg body mass. Stomach pumps were unsatisfactory and flushing the stomach with water was inconvenient.
Myxomatosis: the effects of annual introductions of an immunizing strain and a highly virulent strain of myxoma virus into rabbit populations at Urana, N.S.W.
Authors: Parer I. , Conolly D. , Sobey W. R.
Published: June 2005

A very attenuated strain of myxomatosis was introduced annually into two rabbit populations from 1978 to 1980, to protect susceptible rabbits from the effects of the field strains of myxomatosis. Within 2 years one population had increased by a factor of eight and the other by a factor of 12. The results indicate that myxomatosis is still an important factor in suppressing those populations of rabbits. After 4 years of introducing a highly virulent strain of myxomatosis into two populations the number of adult rabbits had not declined.
Biology of the Feral Cat, Felis Catus (L.), On Macquarie Island.
Authors: Brothers NP , Skira IJ , Copson GR
Published: June 2005

246 feral cats were shot on Macquarie Island, Australia, between Dec. 1976 and Feb. 1981. The sex ratio ( males : females ) was 1:0.8. The percentages of animals with tabby, orange and black coats were 74, 26 and 2 resp. [sic]. Of the 64 orange cats, 56 were males . The breeding season was Oct.-Mar., with a peak in Nov.-Dec. The number of embryos in the 14 pregnant females averaged 4.7 (range = 1-9). The size of the 23 litters that were observed averaged 3 (range = 1-8). Kitten survival to 6 months of age was estimated to be <43%.
Population Dynamics of Mus Musculus and Its Parasites in Mallee Wheatlands in Victoria During and After a Drought.
Authors: Singleton GR
Published: June 2005

The population dynamics and cestodes, nematodes, ticks and fleas of wild mice in mallee wheatlands in Victoria, Australia, were monitored every 6th week from November 1982 to November 1983. Presence of Acarina and Nosopsyllus spp. in a total of 355 mice from farm buildings, crops and near permanent water was independent of that of Hymenolepis fraterna, Taenia taeniaeformis, Aspiculuris tetraptera, Syphacia obvelata and Muspicea borreli. S. obvelata was recorded in every habitat throughout all seasons (although its prevalence was significantly higher in winter near permanent water) and was the most prevalent helminth (67.0%). Overall prevalences of H. fraterna, T. taeniaeformis, A. tetraptera and M. borreli were 7.0, 5.3, 6.2 and 1.7% resp. The overall prevalence of the ticks Radfordia affinis and Myobia murismusculi was 93.9% and that of Nosopsyllus spp. was 36.7%. Other ticks were found on 39.8% of mice. The number of parasite species and prevalence of infection were lowest during severe drought in summer. After the drought parasite prevalence increased significantly . Prevalence of some species differed with habitat, both within and between seasons, but the reasons for the differences were unclear. Prevalence and intensity of parasitism was independent of mouse population density. Muspicea borreli is recorded from Australia for the first time. ADDITIONAL ABSTRACT: The population dynamics and parasite fauna of wild Mus musculus were monitored every 6th week from November 1982 to November 1983 in the mallee wheatlands of northwest Victoria. Endo- and ectoparasites were examined in 355 mice sampled from farm buildings, crops and around permanent water. The presence of ectoparasites (myobiid mites and fleas of the genus Nosopsyllus) was independent of that of endoparasites (nasal mites, cestodes and nematodes). The number of parasite species and prevalence of infection were lowest in summer, a period of severe drought. After the drought, seasonal differences in the number of parasite species were not significant but the prevalence of parasite infection increased significantly. The prevalence and mean intensity of infection varied for each parasite species. The prevalence of many species differed with habitat, both within and between seasons. Generally, reasons for these differences were not clear. The prevalence and intensity of parasitism was independent of mouse population density.
Estimating Food Intake by Captive Emus, Dromaius Novaehollandiae, by Means of Sodium-22 Turnover.
Authors: Herd RM
Published: June 2005

The rate of 22Na turnover was measured in 4 captive emus each fed on 3 diets. There was a close relationship between 22Na turnover and the intake of dietary sodium (r = 0.92), DM (r = 0.93), gross energy and metabolizable energy (r = 0.94). DM intake, estimated from 22Na turnover, accounted for 89% of the variation in actual DM intake, and suggested that 22Na turnover could provide a reliable method for estimating food consumption by populations of free-living emus. However, estimates of food consumed by individual animals may not be reliable.
Waterbird Populations in the Brisbane Region, 1972-83, and Correlates with Rainfall and Water Heights
Authors: Woodall PF
Published: June 2005

Mean numbers and annual variation of 52 species of waterbirds (families Podicipedidae; Pelicanidae; Anhiigidae;
Phalacrocoracidae; Ardeidae; Ciconiidae; Plataleidae; Anatidae; Rallidae; Jacanidae) from the Queensland
Ornithological Society's records of the Brisbane region during 1972-83 are presented. Changes in the numbers
of many species showed significant negative correlations with changes in the Moreton winter rainfall (3 months
before the count). Changes in numbers of hardheads, grey teal and Eurasian coot also had significant negative
correlations with changes of inland rainfall, and many other species showed similar trends. Changes in numbers
of darter and pied cormorant were positively correlated with changes in Moreton and Warrego rainfall
respectively. Most species had non-significant correlations with Moreton dam levels, but for chestnut teal,
white-faced heron and dusky moorhen these approached statistical significance (P<0.1). Numbers of whitefaced
heron, black swan, comb-crested jacana and darter decreased, and those of Australian pelican and plumed
and wandering whistling-ducks increased during the survey period. The coastal and inland distribution of
some species is also presented.
Green Sea Turtles Stranded by Cyclone Kathy on the South-Westeern Coast of the Culf of Carpentaria
Authors: Limpus CJ , Reed PC
Published: June 2005

Cyclone Kathy on 23 March 1984 stranded many green turtles, Chelonia mydas, on the coast adjacent to
the Sir Edward Pellew Is. It is estimated that over 1000 were thrown up by the storm surge and that over
500 were left stranded by the receding waters, including migrants from the Raine I. rookery. These turtles,
which were predominately large females, had been feeding close inshore on seagrass. Of the mature females
sampled, 62% were preparing to breed in the next breeding season but none had bred in the previous season.
The flatback turtle, Chelonia depressa, the principal species breeding on the Sir Edward Pellew Is, was not
involved in the stranding. Hawksbill turtles, Eretmochelys imbricata, and olive ridley turtles, Lepidochelys
olivacea, which occur in the deeper offshore waters were also not stranded. Some of the rescued turtles were
subsequently recaptured nesting at Raine I.
The Loggerhead Turtle, Caretta caretta, in Queensland: Observations on Internesting Behaviour
Authors: Limpus CJRPC
Published: June 2005

An internesting Caretta caretta remained associated with a single underwater refuge adjacent to her nesting
beach throughout an entire breeding season. She maintained this association even when repeatedly disturbed
by divers. The relevance of this behaviour to turtle mortality in trawling fisheries is discussed.
Reproduction in Male Ningaui (Marsupialia, Dasyuridae)
Authors: Kitchener DJ , Cooper N , Bradley a
Published: June 2005

'Stages in the spermatogenic cycle of Ningaui ridei, N. yvonneae and N. timealeyi are defined and the phenology of these stages is presented. In males of Ningaui spp. sexual maturity is reached in the first year, such that after the end of July of each year almost all male Ningaui spp. are considered reproductively mature. Male Ningaui spp. in the active spermatogenic phase are found during the entire season of births (August-January in N. ridei and N. timealeyi but perhaps terminating earlier in N. yvonneae); testes regress to an immature spermatogenic stage after January. There is no indication that in the field adult males die immediately following mating.