Document ID: chunk:federal_register_of_legislation:F2023L00858:body:0:p20
Version: federal_register_of_legislation:F2023L00858
Segment Type: other
Provision Reference: 
Character Range: 53814–56983

Ongoing impacts of historical habitat loss caused by clearing for agriculture

The main threats to bird survival in agricultural areas is habitat loss caused by clearing of native vegetation, and subsequent degradation of the remnants (Stevens 2001). Since European settlement, over 43% of forests, 90% of temperate woodlands and mallee, and 75% of rainforests have been cleared nationwide (Bradshaw 2012). The majority of remnants are generally isolated and small, are vulnerable to edge effects, and are often below the critical size needed to sustain healthy populations of many bird species (Olsen et al. 2005).

Additionally, as habitats become increasingly fragmented due to further clearing, native birds become more vulnerable to the other threats, such as predation by feral species and destructive fires, and lose the ability to recolonise previously suitable habitat (Olsen et al. 2005). The ongoing fragmentation and degradation of remnant vegetation can also disrupt essential ecosystem processes such as pollination, seed dispersal and regeneration (Jackson et al. 2016).

At least 90% of the habitat of the Black-breasted Button-quail had been cleared for agriculture or plantations of Hoop Pine by the 1960's. Ongoing impacts of historical habitat loss and fragmentation from agriculture is a significant threat affecting Black-breasted Button-quail (Webster et al. 2021). Retention and restoration of native vegetation in agricultural areas are urgently needed to prevent further declines in the Black-breasted Button-quail population, as is the cessation of land clearing.

Habitat loss caused by forestry plantations

Forests harvested for wood production in Australia are regenerated to produce another harvest of trees. Loss and modification of habitat in order to maintain timber-harvesting and other forestry-related practices is a serious threat to the viability of Black-breasted Button-quail (Webster et al. 2021). For example, harvesting Hoop Pine plantations with well-developed understorey can destroy established Black-breasted Button-quail habitat and may facilitate access of introduced predators.

Growing, harvesting and regrowing are governed by a rigorous regulatory framework (both government and NGO certified) to ensure that environmental outcomes are maximised.

Habitat degradation caused by domestic stock grazing

Native tree and shrub seedlings and groundcover species are highly susceptible to domestic stock grazing. Unlike native herbivores, most domestic stock are hard-hoofed and cause significant damage to soil structure from compaction and damage to native plants by trampling (Willson & Bignall 2009). Reduction or removal of understorey structure (e.g., native shrubs, herbs and grasses) can reduce foraging, nesting sites and shelter sites, and subsequently increase the risk of predation (Olsen et al. 2005). The other major impact of livestock grazing is its association with weed invasion (Martine & Alan 2005). Livestock grazing can exacerbate weed spread through seed dispersal, soil and vegetation disturbance, and nutrient enrichment (Martine & Alan 2005). Degradation caused by intensive grazing pressure