Document ID: chunk:federal_register_of_legislation:F2007B00385:body:0:p11
Version: federal_register_of_legislation:F2007B00385
Segment Type: other
Provision Reference: 
Character Range: 30469–33455

Size
Current evidence strongly suggests that the Christmas Island Shrew occurs in very low densities, compared to early observations made of the species. A small population size increases the risk of extinction through inbreeding depression and stochastic events (Caughley & Sinclair 1994). The network of wide mining haulage roads may have further isolated populations due to a possible reluctance of individuals to cross wide open spaces due to elevated predation risk.

Other Potential Threats
The two individuals recorded in 1985 were both located on park roads or walking tracks within rainforest in the western section of the island. There is a possibility some shrews may be road killed, and such a threat is likely to increase with a substantial growth in vehicular traffic associated with developments, such as the Asia Pacific Space Centre and the Immigration, Reception and Processing Centre.

Although forest fires are uncommon on the island, during recent extended dry periods in 1994 and 1997, fires occurred in terrace forest. The effects of forest fire on the Christmas Island Shrew is unknown, but may result in adverse impacts due to the loss of ground cover and leaf litter, and by affecting invertebrate populations.

Areas under threat
Unknown, since this species has not been recorded since 1985.

Populations under threat
Targeted surveys undertaken by Meek (2000) and various consultants using a variety of techniques have failed to locate this species, suggesting it is extremely rare and possibly extinct. Any population located must considered to be under extreme threat.

Part D: Objectives, Criteria and Actions

Recovery objectives and timelines
The overall objectives of this recovery plan are to:
  - clarify the taxonomic status of the Christmas Island Shrew,
  - clarify the current status and distribution, and
  - maximise the opportunity for the viability of this species in the wild.
Proposed measures for habitat protection and control or eradication of the crazy ant should assist the survival of any extant populations.

Specific objectives for the five years of this Recovery Plan are:
    * Objective 1:  To clarify the taxonomic status from existing museum specimens.
    * Objective 2:  To assess the current status and distribution through targeted surveys.
    * Objective 3:  To control the abundance and spread of the crazy ant
    * Objective 4:  To establish captive breeding populations from any extant populations, pending mitigation of all potential threats.
    * Objective 5:  To effectively protect and manage any extant populations
    * Objective 6:  To identify habitat critical to survival, including shelter, breeding and foraging habitat.
    * Objective 7:  To determine threatening processes affecting the species.
    * Objective 8:  To develop and implement a community awareness program to assist in the location of previously undetected populations.

Performance Criteria
Performance Criteria listed below match