Document ID: chunk:federal_register_of_legislation:F2006L03939:body:0:p8
Version: federal_register_of_legislation:F2006L03939
Segment Type: other
Provision Reference: 
Character Range: 20361–23285

during hours of darkness. If possible, a mark/recapture program should also be carried out in association to obtain baseline demographic information on the reptile species encountered. Materials and designs for the traps and fencing will need to be trialed to minimise the destructive predatory activities of Robber Crabs.

    Action 2. Until Lister's Gecko and the Christmas Island Blind Snake are rediscovered, have annual searches for both species

Until either or both species are found in the course of Action 1, at least annually for the first two years of the program conduct or commission specific surveys for Lister's Gecko and the Christmas Island Blind Snake. Specialists in rainforest survey whose sole task is to conduct high intensity searches for these two species are required.

    Action 3. Upon rediscovery of either or both species in the wild, conduct autecological studies to inform recovery actions

Obtain, through targeted field studies of each species, sufficient knowledge of their biology and ecology to guide an effective management program for increasing their numbers and spatial distribution.

    Action 4. Identify the role of the introduced Wolf Snake as a potential threat to endemic reptiles

Continue current studies (by PAN) into the distribution, abundance and diet of the Wolf Snake, a potential serious predator on both native reptiles and mammals of Christmas Island, including the two threatened reptile species. If the Wolf Snake is found to be a significant predator on these or related native species, the feasibility of developing a Wolf Snake control program should be investigated and, if feasible, developed and implemented.

    Action 5. Review and maintain existing control program for crazy ants

Review existing crazy ant control program to ensure it covers those areas that, on the basis of historical records, are likely to be primary habitat for Lister's Gecko and the Christmas Island Blind Snake. The existing control program should be maintained, and investigations into alternative control measures continue.
However, if widespread aerial baiting using fipronil is to be resumed, associated with this program there should be toxicological testing on congeneric species of the two threatened species. (This has not been costed as part of the recovery plan)

    Action 6. Identify the role of cats and rats as potential threats to endemic reptiles

Research the diets of feral cats and black rats, potentially serious predators on native reptiles, including the two threatened reptile species. If cats and/or rats are found to be a significant predator on these or related native species, the need for control programs should be investigated.

   Action 7. Reassess conservation status in the absence of further records.

If Lister's Gecko and/or the blind snake are not found within 2 years of implementing Actions 1 and 2, compile comprehensive information on