Document ID: chunk:federal_register_of_legislation:F2007B00385:body:0:p14
Version: federal_register_of_legislation:F2007B00385
Segment Type: other
Provision Reference: 
Character Range: 38705–41536

allow for adaptive management as better information becomes available on the Christmas Island Shrew and other threatened species, in particular whether the shrew is extant, and if so what habitat is critical for survival.

Action 4:  Control abundance and spread of crazy ant (Obj. 3, 5 & 7; Perf. Crit. 3, 5 & 7).
In September 2002 an aerial baiting program was undertaken, with all known supercolonies treated with insecticide. Results so far indicate that the program was successful in controlling supercolonies over 2500 ha of Christmas Island. Crazy ants are still present in low densities on Christmas Island. PAN staff will continue to monitor any new supercolony formation and treat by hand baiting over the next few years.

Action 5: Implement community awareness program (Obj. 2, 5 & 8; Perf. Crit. 2, 5 & 8).
All confirmed records over the past century (ie. 2) have been accidental, rather than targeted. Given the species' rarity and the difficulty using traditional capture techniques, due to the various crab species, it is likely that future records will also be accidental. To enhance the profile of the shrew amongst islanders and interest groups, a community based awareness program is required. This should be based on a information brochure, to encourage reporting and assist distinguishing the shrew from other small mammals, such as the house mouse Mus musculus and immature black rat. The program should improve on publicity used previously to enhance the profile of the shrew, and include instructions on what to do if one is seen/found. It should also clearly explain what conservation actions will occur (and why) if shrews are found. Additionally, PAN staff should conduct information sessions with school groups, field staff from various organisations (e.g. Shire of Christmas Island, CI Phosphates Pty Ltd and Asia Pacific Space Centre), and other interest groups.

This community awareness program must be coupled with confirmation of reported sightings by qualified PAN staff. On confirmation, an assessment of the site's attributes, and a survey within similar habitat in the vicinity should be undertaken by suitably qualified and experienced personnel to identify the extent of the population. It would be valuable for PAN to establish a database for sightings, and devise procedures or protocols for assessing any reported sighting, and the handling of any individuals located.

STAGE 2 – SUBSEQUENT TO LOCATION OF EXTANT POPULATIONS

Action 6:  Establish captive breeding population (Obj. 3, 4, 5 & 7; Perf. Crit.  3, 4, 5 & 7).
When an extant population is located, it is important that a captive breeding population be established to assist in the continuing survival of the species, with the view to reintroduction once crazy ants and other potential threats are controlled. Evidence from