DRAFT Flora and Fauna Assessment Proposed Subdivision

Ms Michelle Halemai C/- Conway Burrows and Hancock Lot 2 DP 867104 Banyandah Street South Durras

Prepared by:

Emma Cornelius Ecologist B.Sc. (Hons), Cert II Bushland Regen.

Project Team:

Jane Farr Gavin Brown Lee Mulvey

W O L L O N G O N G 9/70 Market Street Wollongong NSW 2500 Telephone (02) 4228 1944 Fax (02) 4228 1933 Email [email protected]

M I L T O N 131 Princes Highway Milton NSW 2538 August 05 – DRAFT FOR COMMENT Telephone (02) 4454 0505 Fax (02) 4454 4122 Email [email protected] P M A C O N S U L T I N G Flora and Fauna Assessment: Lot 2 DP867104 Banyandah St, South Durras. Our ref: 04170_FF_DRAFT.doc

Executive Summary

This Flora and Fauna assessment investigates the impacts of a 3-lot subdivision at Lot 2 DP 867104 Banyandah St, South Durras, particularly with regard to threatened species, populations, endangered ecological communities and their habitats.

Surveys were carried out on site in December 2004. Four threatened fauna species were identified, namely the Yellow-bellied Glider, and three microchiropteran bats, the Eastern False Pipistrelle, Eastern Bentwing Bat and the Eastern Freetail Bat. Other common native species found in the South Durras area were also located on the site.

Vegetation studies did not reveal the presence of any threatened plant species, however vegetation surrounding a wetland over the eastern portion of the land is floristically similar to Swamp Sclerophyll Forest, which is an endangered ecological community. This area is designated to become Public Reserve under the proposed development, and will be retained on the site.

No impacts are expected to result to threatened species as a result of the proposed development.

Recommendations are made in Section 12 with regard to minimising impacts of the proposed development in both the shorter and longer term.

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Table of Contents

1 INTRODUCTION ...... 1 2 ENVIRONMENTAL SETTING ...... 2 2.1 Location and Description...... 2 2.2 Geology and Topography...... 2 2.3 Local Vegetation...... 2 2.4 Landuse...... 2 3 DESCRIPTION OF PROPOSAL ...... 2 4 THREATENED SPECIES LITERATURE REVIEW...... 3 4.1 Flora ...... 4 4.2 Fauna ...... 4 5 SURVEY TECHNIQUE ...... 5 5.1 Flora Survey ...... 5 5.2 Fauna Survey ...... 6 5.3 Nomenclature ...... 7 6 RESULTS...... 7 6.1 Flora ...... 7 6.2 Fauna ...... 12 7 POTENTIAL IMPACTS ON THREATENED SPECIES ...... 14 7.1 Flora ...... 14 7.2 Fauna ...... 14 8 EUROBODALLA SHIRE COUNCIL POLICY ON YELLOW-BELLIED GLIDERS ...... 15 9 SEPP 44: KOALA HABITAT PROTECTION ...... 16 10 EIGHT PART TEST...... 16 11 CONCLUSIONS ...... 18 12 RECOMMENDATIONS ...... 19 13 BIBLIOGRAPHY...... 20 APPENDIX 1: SITE PLAN APPENDIX 2: POST DEVELOPMENT SITE PLAN APPENDIX 3: LITERATURE REVIEW TABLES Table A3-1 Atlas of NSW Wildlife data of Threatened Plant Species found within a 10 km radius of the subject land Table A3-2 NSW NPWS Atlas data of Threatened Fauna Species found within a 10 km radius of the subject land.

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1 Introduction

This Flora and Fauna Assessment was prepared by PMA Consulting (Engineering & Environmental) and was commissioned by Conway Burrows and Hancock on behalf of our client, Ms. Michelle Halernai the owner of Lot 2 DP867104 Banyandah Street, South Durras. A 3-lot subdivision is proposed for the land.

This study aims to identify the type and distribution of ecological communities present on the property. The likely impacts of the proposed development on flora and fauna are considered, particularly in relation to species of conservation significance within the region.

This assessment is based on the results of field surveys conducted on the 14th-16th December 2004 and a site visit on the 26th May 2005.

This report aims to:

• Describe the type and distribution of vegetation on the site;

• Describe the fauna habitats constituted by the vegetation, rocky outcrops, drainage routes and soils on the site;

• Identify threatened species that have potential to occur on or utilise the site;

• Provide a list of the flora species and communities on the site;

• Provide a list of fauna recorded on the site;

• Assess the potential impact of the proposed development on threatened species, endangered populations and endangered ecological communities, and their habitats, by applying an ‘Eight Part Test’ of significance, in accordance with the Threatened Species Conservation Act 1995;

• Assess the relevance and applicability of Eurobodalla Shire Council’s adopted policy on Yellow-bellied Gliders in relation to the proposed development;

• Assess the impact on potential or core koala habitat, under State Environmental Planning Policy No. 44 - Koala Protection 1995; and

• Make recommendations to minimise the potential impacts of the proposed development on the local flora and fauna.

This report has regard to the following pieces of legislation and environmental planning instruments:

• Section 5A of the Environmental Planning and Assessment Act (1979);

• The Threatened Species Conservation (TSC) Act (1995);

• The Environment Protection and Biodiversity Conservation Act (1999);

• The Policy for the Conservation of the Yellow-bellied Glider in the Broulee Area (Eurobodalla Shire Council (ESC), 2002); and

• Eurobodalla Shire Council Urban Local Environmental Plan 1999.

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2 Environmental Setting

2.1 Location and Description

The subject land, Lot 2 (DP 867104) Banyandah Street, South Durras, is an irregular shaped allotment with an area of 3.5 ha. The subject land and its existing attributes are indicated on the Site Plan (Appendix 1). The land is located at the eastern edge of the residential area of South Durras. Most of the western portion of the land is located behind developed residential allotments along Banyandah Street, although it has frontage to Banyandah Street on the eastern side of the northern boundary. The eastern and southern boundaries are adjacent to Murramarang National Park and privately owned land is situated to the west of the subject land. The land is zoned Residential General (2g) under the Eurobodalla Urban Local Environmental Plan (ESC, 1999).

2.2 Geology and Topography According to the Ulladulla Geological Series Sheet (Mcllveen, 1973), the underlying geology of the subject land is formed from the Conjola Formation of the Shoalhaven Group, consisting of conglomerate, sandstone and silty sandstone. The subject land has a northeasterly aspect with an intermittent drainage line running approximately south to north through the eastern side of the property beside a wetland, which covers almost the entire eastern portion of the subject land.

2.3 Local Vegetation Most of the South Durras region outside the residential area is covered in eucalypt forest. Cleared patches and scattered trees are located within the areas of residential development to the north and east of the site. Murramarang National Park is located directly adjacent to the boundary of the subject land to the south and west and extends around the township of South Durras. The reserve contains eucalypt forest on the adjacent boundary and areas of littoral rainforest and coastal heath communities throughout other areas of Murramarang National Park.

2.4 Landuse A dwelling and associated structures are presently situated on the central southern part of the subject land. Historical clearing of the land is evidenced by the presence of stumps and lack of mature trees on site. Most of the vegetation on the subject land has been under-scrubbed, and dumping of garden waste along the northern boundary near residential allotments has encouraged growth of exotic species in this area.

3 Description of Proposal

It is proposed to subdivide the subject land into three new allotments. The outlines of the new allotments are indicated on the Post Development Site Plan (Appendix 2). A building envelope is proposed for each of the three allotments. An access road will be located approximately halfway along the subject land from the north, with the emergency egress to be situated at the present access to the existing dwelling along the western boundary. The existing buildings are to be demolished.

Clearing of vegetation will be required as part of the proposed development for building envelopes, access and egress and Asset Protection Zones (APZ’s) in accordance with Rural Fire Service legislation. The Bushfire Protection Assessment for the proposed development undertaken by Bush fire and Environmental Se,vices (2005) has indicated that minimum APZs, (consisting of an Inner Protection Area (IPA) and Outer Protection Area (OPA)), required for the proposed dwellings are:

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• 30 m to the south; • 40 m to the east; and • 40 m to the west;

The approximate extent of this required clearing for APZ’s is indicated on the Post Development Site Plan (Appendix 2). As indicated, the APZ extends into Murramarang National Park. An agreement exists regarding location of these APZ’s within the park boundary.

The APZ requirements will result in the clearing of most of the vegetation on the western side of the land, however it must be noted that the APZ’s will not necessarily be entirely cleared. According to Planning for Bushfire Protection (NSW Rural Fire Service (RFS), 2001), trees and shrubs can be present within the IPA provided they: • Do not touch or overhang the building; • Are well spread out and do not form a continuous canopy; • Are not species that retain dead material or deposit excessive quantities of ground fuel in a short period or in a danger period; and • Are located far enough away from the house so that they will not ignite the house by direct flame contact or radiant heat emission.

Within the OPA, trees and shrubs should be maintained in such a manner that there is not continuous vegetation.

As indicated on the Post Development Site Plan (Appendix 1) most of the vegetation on the western side of the subject land will be cleared or modified. Most of the vegetation on the eastern side however will remain intact.

Alterations will be made to the existing stormwater hydraulics of the subject land as a result of the proposed development. The Concept Drainage Plan, undertaken by PMA Consulting outlines the proposed stormwater drainage design for the proposed development. The concept involves ‘At Source Gross Pollutant Traps’ within the kerb and gutter pits, along with on-site detention within an existing drainage depression. The concept aims to maintain or potentially improve the water quality over the site.

4 Threatened Species Literature Review

A literature review was conducted in order to identify threatened plant species or communities that are potentially present on the subject land or in the local area, and threatened fauna species that potentially inhabit, or at least utilise the land for foraging. Information was sought in regards to the preferred habitat of species of conservation significance including vegetation, topography and home range. A number of reference sources were utilised to gain information about threatened species and the principal references are listed as follows.

• The list of rare or threatened Australian plant species (ROTAP Species) by Briggs and Leigh (1996);

• The Threatened Species Conservation Act (1995);

• The Atlas of NSW Wildlife (Department of Environment and Conservation (DEC) – formerly National Parks and Wildlife Service (NPWS), Data extracted: 24 November 2004); and

• The Environment Protection and Biodiversity Conservation Act (1999).

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4.1 Flora A search of the Atlas of NSW Wildlife was undertaken for threatened plant species recorded within a 10 km radius of the subject land. One species of conservation significance was recorded within a 10 km radius of the subject land. Table 1 summarises the species identified from this database and more detailed information in regards to these species is contained in Table A3-1 in Appendix 3.

Table 1: Threatened plant species recorded within a 10 km radius of the subject land. ROTAP Family Name Common Name Status Code ORCHIDACEAE Cryptostylis hunteriana Leafless Tongue Orchid V 3VC-

4.2 Fauna A search of the NPWS Atlas of NSW Wildlife was undertaken for Threatened fauna species recorded within a 10 km radius of the subject land. Table 2 summarises the species and legal conservation status with Table A3-2 in Appendix 3 providing information regarding the legal status, preferred habitat, known threats and information in regards to these species known presence within conservation reserves (where available). The table lists species in the following groups: Amphibians; Birds; Mammals (excluding Microchiropteran Bats); Microchiropteran Bats; and Marine Mammals.

Table 2: Threatened fauna recorded within a 10 km radius of the subject land.

Faunal Group Common Name Scientific Name Status AMPHIBIANS Green and Golden Bell Frog Litoria aurea Endangered BIRDS Australasian Bittern Botaurus poiciloptilus Vulnerable Barking Owl Ninox connivens Vulnerable Black-browed Albatross Thalassarche melanophris Vulnerable Black Bittern Ixobrychus flavicollis Vulnerable Brown Treecreeper Climacteris picumnus Vulnerable Fleshy-footed Shearwater Puffinus carneipes Vulnerable Glossy Black-Cockatoo Calyptorhynchus lathami Vulnerable Hooded Plover Thinornis rubricollis Endangered Lesser Sand Plover Charadrius mongolus Vulnerable Little Shearwater Puffinus assimilis Vulnerable Masked Owl Tyto novaehollandiae Vulnerable Olive Whistler Pachycephala olivacea subsp. olivacea Vulnerable Osprey Pandion haliaetus Vulnerable Pied Oystercatcher Haematopus longirostris Vulnerable Powerful Owl Ninox strenua Vulnerable Providence Petrel Pterodroma solandri Vulnerable Regent Honeyeater Xanthomyza phrygia Endangered Shy Albatross Diomedea cauta Vulnerable Sooty Owl Tyto tenebricosa Vulnerable Sooty Oystercatcher Haematopus fuliginosus Vulnerable Sooty Tern Sterna fuscata Vulnerable Southern Giant Petrel Macronectes giganteus Endangered Striated Fieldwren Calamanthus fuliginosus Vulnerable Swift Parrot Lathamus discolor Endangered Turquoise Parrot Neophema pulchella Vulnerable MAMMALS (EXCL Brush-tailed Phascogale Phascogale tapoatafa Vulnerable MICROCHIROPTERANS Grey-headed Flying-fox Pteropus poliocephalus Vulnerable Spotted-tailed Quoll Dasyurus maculatus Vulnerable Squirrel Glider Petaurus norfolcensis Vulnerable

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Faunal Group Common Name Scientific Name Status Yellow-bellied Glider Petaurus australis Vulnerable White-footed Dunnart Sminthopsis leucopus Vulnerable MICROCHIROPTERAN Eastern Bent-wing Bat Miniopterus schreibersii oceanensis Vulnerable BATS Eastern Freetail-bat Mormopterus norfolkensis Vulnerable Large-footed Myotis Myotis adversus Vulnerable MARINE MAMMALS Australian Fur-seal Arctocephalus pusillus subsp. doriferus Vulnerable Humpback Whale Megaptera novaeangliae Vulnerable

5 Survey Technique

5.1 Flora Survey

5.1.1 Plant Species

General Survey Vegetation communities on the subject land were investigated through traversing the subject land. After initial determination of the communities present, specific surveys were undertaken in each community to identify all plant species present. Voucher specimens were collected of plants unable to be identified on site, and these were subsequently identified using more detailed texts.

The flora survey sought to identify as many species on the study site as possible. The list compiled from this audit is considered to be reasonably extensive, however cannot be assumed to be definitive. Problems may be encountered in detection and identification of certain species as fruits, flowering parts and other defining characteristics of certain species are only present at particular times of the year. These factors must be taken into consideration when referring to the species list. Species of Conservation Significance are best targeted at times when they are most likely to be located and identified. Exotic species detected in the surveys are indicated in the species list and throughout the report with an asterisk.

Targeted Survey It was confirmed with John Briggs of the Department of Environment and Conservation, Queanbeyan, that the Leafless Tongue Orchid Cryptostylis hunteriana had been reported to be flowering in Vincentia in early December 2004 (Pers comm., 6 Dec 2004). A targeted survey was undertaken for the species during the flora survey on the 15th December 2004. This survey involved traverses along transects across the study site investigating ground flora species to approximately 5 m either side of the transect.

5.1.2 Habitat Assessment Assessment of the habitat on the site was undertaken in conjunction with the flora survey with the aim to detect areas of preferred habitat for threatened fauna species. Presence of known ‘preferred habitat’ can indicate species of fauna that may potentially utilise habitat on, or in the vicinity of the site, (even when not detected in surveys). The habitat assessment was used to assist with the consideration and determination of habitat features likely to be significant to the lifecycle requirements of any threatened fauna that may utilise the site.

Habitat features sought on the site included feed trees, rocky outcrops, habitat trees (i.e. mature trees exhibiting hollows suitable for bird and mammal occupation), waterways, drainage routes, habitat interconnections, caves, and areas of prolific flowering suitable for birds and small mammals. The locations of significant habitat elements were recorded using a Garmin Etrex Geographic Positioning System (GPS) unit.

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5.2 Fauna Survey The diurnal fauna survey was undertaken concurrently with the flora survey and habitat assessment on the 14th 15th and 16th of December 2004. An additional site visit was undertaken on the 26th May 2005. Nocturnal fauna surveys were undertaken over three consecutive nights on the 14th 15th and 16th of December 2004. Conditions were generally overcast. Temperature was on average 21 degrees. Table 3 summarises the survey effort undertaken for the fauna surveys and nocturnal survey sites are indicated on the Site Plan (Appendix 1).

Table 3: Fauna Survey Effort. Method Species Targeted Date Survey Effort/Time per day Census and opportunistic General: Amphibians, 14/12/2004 3 hours x 2 persons Reptiles, Birds, 15/12/2004 3 hours x 2 persons Mammals 16/12/2004 2 hours x 2 persons Glossy Black- 26/5/2004 1 hour x 1 person Cockatoo Spotlighting General 14/12/2004 1.5 hours x 2 persons Arboreal/Nocturnal 15/12/2004 1.5 hours x 2 persons Mammals 16/12/2004 2 hours x 2 persons Mammals Yellow Bellied Glider Call Playback Powerful Owl 14/12/2004 1 hour Masked Owl 15/12/2004 1 hour Sooty Owl 16/12/2004 1 hour Barking Owl Squirrel Glider Yellow Bellied Glider Anabat™ II Ultrasonic Microchiropteran Bats 14/12/2004 Overnight Detection 15/12/2004 Overnight 16/12/2004 Overnight Habitat Searches General 14/12/12004 2 hours x 2 persons Microchiropteran Bats 15/12/2004 2 hours x 2 persons Spotted Tailed Quoll 16/12/2004 2 hours x 2 persons Arboreal Mammals

5.2.1 Amphibians Amphibians were sought during both the diurnal and nocturnal surveys. Listening for, and recording of frog calls, was carried out, along with spotlighting, particularly in the vicinity of the wetland and intermittent drainage line on the subject land. Frog calls were distinguished using the CD ”Australian Frog Calls Subtropical East” produced by David Stewart of Nature Sound (Stewart, 1998). The distinctive calls of the Green and Golden Bell frog were targeted during these surveys.

5.2.2 Reptiles Searches for reptiles were undertaken during the diurnal survey, particularly amongst leaf litter and around dead wood.

5.2.3 Birds The diurnal bird census was undertaken in the evenings, in the mornings and opportunistic sightings were recorded during the flora survey and habitat assessment. Birds were identified by sight or through recognition of their individual distinctive calls. Crushed cones, indicative of the feeding of Glossy Black Cockatoos were sought around Allocasuarina littoralis trees on the site.

Call playback targeting the threatened owl species was undertaken over three consecutive evenings after dark. The calls of the Powerful Owl, Barking Owl, Sooty Owl and Masked Owl were each played separately with an interval of five minutes listening between and then replayed.

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5.2.4 Mammals (excluding bats) Hollow-bearing trees, fallen trees, leaf litter and other potential habitat elements were investigated on the study site during the diurnal survey for evidence of mammals including scats, tracks, burrows and diggings indicative of presence of species such as the Spotted-tailed Quoll and White-footed Dunnart.

Call playback was undertaken over three consecutive nights. The calls of the Yellow-bellied Glider and the Squirrel Glider were each played separately, with an interval of five minutes listening, and then replayed. Call playback for the Yellow-bellied glider was repeated several times during the survey due to their known occurrence in the region.

Spotlighting was undertaken on foot using 800,000-candlepower spotlights. The extent of spotlighting is shown in the Site Plan (Appendix 1). Potential habitat trees, fallen trees, dead wood and other elements of habitat were targeted.

5.2.5 Bats An AnaBat™ II Bat Detector was placed in potential flyways on the subject land on three consecutive nights to record ultrasonic echolocation signals of microchiropteran bats.

5.3 Nomenclature

5.3.1 Flora The botanical nomenclature in this report follows that published by the National Herbarium of New South Wales in the Flora of New South Wales (Harden 1990-93). Additionally current nomenclature was obtained online from PlantNET - The Plant Information Network System of Botanic Gardens Trust (BGT, 2005). Where possible the scientific names have been complimented by common names.

5.3.2 Fauna Fauna cited in this report follow those in the following texts: • The Mammals of Australia (Strahan, 1995); • Reptiles and Amphibians of Australia (Cogger, 1992); and • Taxonomy and Species of Birds of Australia (Christidis and Boles 1994).

6 Results

6.1 Flora

6.1.1 Plant Species Present The plant species identified on and near to the subject land during the flora survey are listed in Table 4.

Table 4: Flora species discovered on and in the vicinity of the subject land.

Family Scientific Name Common Name ACANTHACEAE Thunbergia alata Black-eyed Susan ADIANTACEAE Adiantum aethiopicum Maidenhair Fern Pellaea falcata Sickle Fern APIACEAE Hydrocotyle peduncularis - APOCYNACEAE Nerium oleander* Oleander Parsonsia straminea var. straminea Monkey Rope ARECACEAE Livistona australis Cabbage Palm ASPARAGACEAE Asparagus aethiopicus* Asparagus Fern

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Family Scientific Name Common Name ASTERACEAE Bidens pilosa* Cobblers Pegs Conyza bonariensis Flaxleaf Fleabane Delairea odorata* Cape Ivy Senecio bipinnatisectus - Senecio madagascariensis* Fireweed Sigesbeckia orientalis* Indian-weed BIGNONIACEAE Jacaranda mimosifolia* Jacaranda BLECHNACEAE Doodia aspera Prickly Rasp Fern CASUARINACEAE Allocasuarina littoralis Black She-oak Casuarina glauca Swamp Oak COMMELINACEAE Commelina cyanea Commelina CONVOLVULACEAE Dichondra repens Kidney Weed Ipomea indica* Morning Glory CYPERACEAE Cyperus sanguinolentus - Gahnia sieberiana Red-fruit Saw-sedge Isolepis nodosa Knobby Clubrush Lepidosperma laterale Variable Sword-sedge DAVALLIACEAE Nephrolepis cordifolia* Fishbone Fern DENNSTAEDTIACEAE Pteridium esculentum Bracken DICKSONIACEAE Calochlaena dubia Rainbow Fern DILLENACEAE Hibbertia scandens Climbing Guinea Flower Hibbertia aspera Rough Guinea Flower ERICACEAE Leucopogon lanceolatus Lance Beard Heath EUPHORBIACEAE Breynia oblongifolia Coffeebush Glochidion ferdinandi Cheese Tree FABACEAE- Senna pendula* Senna CAESALPINOIDEAE FABACEAE-FABOIDEAE Daviesia ulicifolia Gorse Bitter Pea Desmodium varians Slender Tick-trefoil Glycine microphylla Small-leaf Glycine Hardenbergia violacea False Sarsparilla Kennedia rubicunda Dusky Coral Pea Podolobium ilicifolium Prickly Shaggy Pea Pultenaea hispidula - Trifolium sp.* Clover FABACEAE-MIMOSOIDEAE Acacia longifolia Sydney Golden Wattle Acacia falcata - Acacia longifolia Sydney Golden Wattle Acacia parramattensis Parramatta Golden Wattle GERANIACEAE Geranium molle* Cranesbill Geranium HALORAGACEAE Gonocarpus teucrioides Germander Raspwort LAMIACEAE Plectranthus parviflorus - LOBELIACEAE Pratia purpurascens White Root LOMANDRACEAE Lomandra longifolia Spiny-headed Mat Rush LUZURIAGACEAE Eustrephus latifolia Wombat Berry Geitonoplesium cymosum Scrambling Lily

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Family Scientific Name Common Name MALVACEAE Sida rhombifolia* Paddy's Lucerne MENISPERMACEAE Stephania japonica Snake Vine MORACEAE Ficus coronata Sandpaper Fig MYRTACEAE Corymbia gummifera Red Bloodwood Corymbia maculata Spotted Gum Eucalyptus botryoides Bangalay Eucalyptus fibrosa subsp. fibrosa Broad-leaved Ironbark Eucalyptus pilularis subsp. pilularis Blackbutt Eucalyptus robusta Swamp Mahogany Eucalyptus saligna Sydney Blue Gum Leptospermum polygalifolium Lemon-scented Tea-tree Melaleuca ericifolia Swamp Paperbark OLEACEAE Notelea longifolia Mock Olive ORCHIDACEAE Dipodium punctatum - OXALIDACEAE Oxalis sp.* - PASSIFLORACEAE Passiflora edulis* Common Passionfruit Passiflora herbertiana Native Passionfruit PITTOSPORACEAE Pittosporum undulatum Sweet Pittosporum POACEAE Echinopogon ovatus Forest Hedgehog Grass PROTEACEAE Banksia spinulosa subsp. spinulosa Hairpin Banksia Persoonia linearis Narrow-leaved Geebung ROSACEAE Rubus parvifolius Native Raspberry SCROPHULARIACEAE Veronica plebia Trailing Speedwell SMILIACEAE Smilax glyciphylla Sweet Sarsparilla SOLANACEAE Solanum nigrum* Blackberry Nightshade THYMELAEACEAE Pimelea linifolia subsp. linifolia Slender Rice Flower VERBENACEAE Lantana camara* Lantana VIOLACEAE Viola hederacea Ivy-leaved Violet VITACEAE Cissus hypoglauca Water Vine ZAMIACEAE Macrozamia communis Burrawang ZINGIBERACEAE Hedychium gardnerianum* Ginger Lily * Exotic Species

6.1.2 Vegetation Description Vegetation over western side of the subject land was disturbed in patches, particularly surrounding the existing dwelling on the land and behind the residential allotments along the northern boundary. Much of the vegetation in these areas having been cleared with the understorey cleared and managed. Dominant tree species in the area adjacent to the allotments were Spotted Gum Corymbia maculata and Blackbutt Eucalyptus pilularis and less frequently Red Ironbark Eucalyptus fibrosa. Understorey was sparse, consisting of young eucalypts Sweet Pittosporum Pittosporum undulatum and Burrawang Macrozamia communis. A variety of exotic species were present throughout the vegetation including Oleander Nerium oleander* Paddy’s Lucerne Sida rhombifolia*, Black-eyed Susan Thunbergia alata*, Asparagus Fern Asparagus aethiopicus*, Fishbone Fern Nephrolepis cordifolia* and Ginger Lily Hedychium gardnerianum*.

The southwestern corner of the study site directly adjacent to Murramarang National Park contains less disturbed vegetation, with dominant species including Spotted Gum Corymbia maculata and Blackbutt Eucalyptus pilularis, in association with Red Bloodwood C. gummifera Stringy and occasional Red Ironbark E. fibrosa. Black She-oak was present occasionally in the

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understorey with Narrow-leaved Geebung Persoonia linearis and Sweet Pittosporum Pittosporum undulatum. The shrub layer consisted of Burrawang Macrozamia communis along with smaller shrubs such as Gorse Bitter Pea Daviesia ulicifolia, Prickly Shaggy Pea Podolobium ilicifolium, Lance Beard Heath Slender Rice Flower Pimelea linifolia and Pultenaea hispidula. The ground layer was dominated by Bracken Pteridium esculentum along with Variable Sword Sedge Lepidosperma laterale. Twiners included False Sarsparilla Hardenbergia violacea, Dusky Coral Pea Kennedia rubicunda and Wombat Berry Eustrephus latifolia.

East of the existing dwelling there is an area that appears to be largely cleared, with a scattered Parramatta Golden Wattle Acacia parramattensis present and a ground layer dominated by Spiny-headed Mat-rush Lomandra longifolia, and Bracken Pteridium esculentum. Other species present in this area include Common Maidenhair Fern Adiantum aethiopicum, Knobby Clubrush Isolepis nodosa, and Ivy-leaved Violet Viola hederacea. East of this, a transitional zone between the forest and wetland vegetation was dominated by Bangalay Eucalyptus botryoides along with smaller Spotted Gums Corymbia maculata. Cheese Tree Glochidion ferdinandi was present in the understorey along with Mock Olive Notelea longifolia, and Coffeebush Breynia oblongifolia forming a sparse shrub layer. Giant Water Vine Cissus hypoglauca was present twining throughout the understorey, and ground layer species included Spiny-headed Mat-rush Lomandra longifolia, Rainbow Fern Calochaena dubia, Bracken Pteridium esculentum and Native Raspberry Rubus parvifolius.

Fringing the wetland, the vegetation was dominated by Swamp Mahogany Eucalyptus robusta with an understorey close to the waters edge consisting of Swamp Paperbark Melaleuca ericifolia with occasional Acacia falcata. Two Cabbage Palms Livistona australis were noted near to the north western side of the wetland. Shrub species present included Gorse Bitter Pea Daviesia ulicifolia. Red-fruit Sword-sedge Gahnia sieberiana was common surrounding the edge of the wetland.

6.1.3 Vegetation Types

Spotted Gum – Blackbutt Open Forest The vegetation over the western portion of the subject land was a Spotted Gum – Blackbutt Open Forest. The vegetation has largely been modified through clearing of the understorey, and a variety of exotic species are present.

Swamp Sclerophyll Forest The vegetation community present on the eastern side of the subject land is floristically similar to the endangered ecological community “Swamp Sclerophyll Forest on Coastal floodplains of the NSW North Coast, Sydney Basin and South East Corner bioregions” The community surrounding the wetland is dominated by Swamp Mahogany Eucalyptus robusta. This community generally occurs below 20 m above sea level with an open forest structure, however disturbance may reduce the canopy to only scattered trees, or be reduced to scrub. The community includes areas of tall reedland or sedgeland where trees are very sparse or absent. According to information in regards to this community from DEC, less than 1000 ha of this community is present in the South Coast region. A few occurrences of this community are located around the northwestern end of Swan Lake, and extensive patches were mapped from new aerial photo interpretation, although ground-truthing has not occurred. Small areas of this community are contained within existing conservation reserves along the NSW Coastline including Bungawalbin, Tuckean and Moonee Beach Nature Reserves, and Hat Head, Crowdy Bay, Aallingat, Myall Lakes and Garigal National Parks.

Transitional Vegetation The vegetation along the central area of the subject land, appears to be a transitional area between the open forest and the swamp sclerophyll forest, and is dominated by Bangalay Eucalyptus botryoides.

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Cleared / Disturbed Areas The areas behind the residential development along with a patch of vegetation through the central area of the subject land has been cleared or modified, and consists of grassy vegetation, or is dominated by sedges.

6.1.4 Habitat Description

Size The subject land has an area of approximately 3.46 ha.

Connectivity The subject land adjoins Murramarang National Park to the south and east. To the north are developed residential allotments and Banyandah Street. The undeveloped allotments to the west are connected to Murramarang National Park via their own southern boundaries. The vegetation on the subject land does not act as a corridor to any other area of vegetation.

Significant Species A number of threatened species have been recorded within 10 km of the site. Unsuitable habitat is present on the site for the Leafless Tongue Orchid Cryptostylis hunteriana, and the species was not identified during targeted surveys for the species.

Suitable habitat is located over parts of the subject land for the foraging purposes of several threatened species of fauna. The eastern side of the subject land houses a degraded Spotted Gum Corymbia gummifera / Blackbutt Eucalyptus pilularis open forest, with the wetland area being fringed by vegetation floristically similar to Swamp Sclerophyll Forest, an endangered ecological community. These communities form suitable habitat for a number of threatened species as there is potential for a variety of different feeding and breeding requirements to be satisfied.

Significant Vegetation Communities/Habitats Two vegetation communities were identified on the subject land. Spotted Gum – Blackbutt Forest is common in the region, and extends further into Murramarang National park to the south. The Swamp Sclerophyll Forest is listed as an endangered ecological community due to its limited distribution. Both of these communities provide habitat for threatened species throughout the region. The eastern portion of the subject land houses a freshwater wetland that provides habitat for numerous birds and aquatic species.

Ecological Integrity Vegetation along the northwestern and western portions of the subject land has been subject to clearing and management of the understorey, and as such, the structure of the vegetation appears to have been modified, with shrub and ground layer species replaced by exotic species. Logging has occurred in the study area in the past, as evidenced by the presence of only a few mature trees. The natural state of the bushland is indicated through entering Murramarang National Park, in which there are few, if any exotic species present within the bushland. The wetland area appears to have a reasonably good resilience with only a few weeds present along its fringe.

Diversity There is a reasonable diversity of plant species across the site, including a number of exotic species. The study area is covered in two vegetation communities, with some variations in the structure of the understorey generally related to clearing or modification and topography.

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Significant Trees There were no large hollow-bearing trees present on the study site. Scarred Yellow-bellied Glider feed trees were identified in Murramarang National Park along the track to the southwest of the subject land.

6.2 Fauna

6.2.1 Amphibians As a result of the fauna survey, four amphibian species were found on the subject land during spotlighting and identified as listed in Table 5.

Table 5: Amphibians detected on or in the vicinity of the subject land.

Common Name Scientific Name Call Sight Common Eastern Froglet Crinia signifera X Laughing Tree Frog Litoria tylerii X Perons Tree Frog Litoria peronii X Striped Marsh Frog Lymnodynastes peronii X

6.2.2 Reptiles One reptile was detected during the fauna survey as listed in Table 6.

Table 6: Reptiles detected during the survey.

Common Name Scientific Name Sight Evidence Red Bellied Black Snake Pseudechis porphyriacus X

6.2.3 Birds A number of birds were observed or calls identified during the study. These are listed in Table 7.

Table 7: Birds detected during the survey (species of conservation significance in bold print).

Common Name Scientific Name Call Sight Evidence Australian Wood Duck Chenonetta jubata X Crimson Rosella Platycercus elegans X X Eastern Whip Bird Psophodes olivaceus X Fig Bird Sphecotheres viridis X Galah Cacatua roseicapilla X X Grey Fantail Rhipidura fuliginosa X King Parrot Alisterus scapularis X X Laughing Kookaburra Dacelo novaeguineae X X Noisy friar Philemon corniculatus X X Pacific Black Duck Anas superciliosa X Pied Currawong Strepera graculina X Purple Swamp Hen Porphyrio porphyrio X Rainbow Lorikeet Trichoglossus haematodus X X Red Wattle Bird Anthochaera carunculata X X Superb Fairy Wren Malurus cyaneus X X Whistling Kite Haliastur sphenurus X X White Throated Gerygone Gerygone olivacea X Willie Wag Tail Rhipidura leucophrys X

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No threatened owl species responded to call playback, and no evidence was found of the feeding of Glossy Black-Cockatoos on the subject land.

6.2.4 Mammals (excluding bats) Mammals detected on site are listed in Table 8 below. A series of diggings evident of a bandicoot were also identified around the eastern side of the subject land during subsequent survey on the 26th May 2005.

Table 8: Mammals identified during the survey (species of Conservation Significance in bold print). Evidence (scats, Call Common Name Scientific Name Sighting diggings, Detection burrows) Common Brushtail Possum Trichosurus vulpecula X Common Wallaroo Macropus robustus X Eastern Grey Kangaroo Macropus giganteus X X Long-nosed Bandicoot Perameles nasuta X X Swamp Wallaby Wallabia bicolor X Yellow Bellied Glider Petaurus australis X X X

A variety of native mammals are frequent in the South Durras area. A Long-nosed Bandicoot was sighted along the roadside near to the subject land, along with several Eastern Grey Kangaroos. A family group of Yellow-bellied Gliders were observed in Murramarang National Park to the south of the subject land and feed trees of the species were also noted. One individual was spotlighted within a tree on the subject land during the surveys.

6.2.5 Bats Data from the Anabat™ II Ultrasonic Detector was sent to Glenn Hoye of ‘Fly by Night Bat Surveys Pty Ltd’ for analysis. These results are indicated in Table 9. Confidence levels for the identification of calls are indicated in the three levels: C = Confident; P = Probable; Po = Possible.

Table 9: Microchiropteran Bats detected during the survey (species of Conservation Significance in bold print)

Common Name Scientific Name Confidence Chalinolobus gouldii Goulds Wattled Bat C Chalinolobus morio Chocolate Wattled Bat C Falsistrellus tasmaniensis Eastern False Pipistrelle Po Miniopterus schreibersii Eastern Bent Wing Bat C Mormopterus norfolkensis Eastern Freetail Bat P Nyctophilus sp Unidentified Long eared Bat C Scotorepens orion Eastern Broad Nosed Bat C Tadarida australis White striped Mastiff Bat C Vespadelus darlingtoni Large Forest Bat Po Vespadelus vulturnus Little Forest Bat C

Ten microchiropteran bats were identified to various levels of confidence from data obtained from the AnaBat™ II recordings. Three bats of conservation significance were detected, namely the Eastern False Pipistrelle, Eastern Bentwing Bat and the Eastern Freetail Bat.

6.2.6 Summary The subject land provides foraging area for variety of different species as indicated in these results, with a range of species present on, and in the vicinity of the subject land. Four species of conservation significance were detected as a result of the fauna survey, namely the Yellow-

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bellied Glider, and three microchiropteran bats, the Eastern False Pipistrelle, Eastern Bentwing Bat and the Eastern Freetail Bat.

In reviewing the results of this fauna survey it must be taken into consideration that the more time spent in the field and the larger the range of detection techniques used, the greater the probability of finding more species. Other techniques available for fauna survey include the laying of box traps, pitfall traps and hair tubes, the use of harp traps and the analysis of predator scats. In relation to the probability of finding threatened species at a given time it was considered that the techniques utilised produced an appropriate fauna survey for the species targeted. A definitive list of fauna present on a site will only be produced following an extensive survey that covers all seasons and climatic periods.

7 Potential Impacts on Threatened Species

The subject land provides a range of habitat features suitable for a number of threatened species recorded within a 10 km radius of the site. These included a drainage line; a wetland and eucalyptus open forest adjacent to the extensively forested area of Murramarang National Park. This section indicates species for which suitable habitat is thought to be available and which may utilise the subject land at least from time to time, based on number and location of records obtained from the Atlas of NSW Wildlife, information from the Literature Review (Section 4), undertaking a Habitat Assessment on site and the consultant’s knowledge of the area. Potential impacts of the proposed development on these species are considered further in this section. Impacts on threatened species detected on the site are considered in the Eight Part Test (Section 10).

7.1 Flora

7.1.7 Cryptostylis hunteriana Although a targeted survey was undertaken for this species, neither it, nor other any other more common members of the genus were identified on the study site. Only one record of the species was retrieved from the database. It is not expected that the species is likely to be present on the study site, and thus no impacts are anticipated for the species.

7.2 Fauna

7.2.1 Green and Golden Bell Frog The Green and Golden Bell Frog (GGBF) was not detected during targeted surveys for the species. However, the species has been included for consideration in this section due to the presence of a permanent body of water, in the freshwater wetland, and the known occurrence of the species in the region. The GGBF breeds during summer with the males calling during this period and as such calls would have been likely to be identified if they were present in the area during the surveys. The wetland on the eastern portion of this site will not be impacted by the proposed development and is to become a public reserve. This will essentially provide a buffer around the wetland from the residential development and will help maintain the integrity of the area allowing the Green and Golden Bell Frog to remain undisturbed if it is, in fact, inhabiting the wetland.

7.2.2 Powerful Owl The Powerful Owl was not detected through call-playback, although it is known from the local area. The owl has a large home range, and may occasionally forage over the area. No suitable nest sites, in the form of large hollows, or dead stags were identified upon the subject land. Although the proposed development will remove a small foraging area of the species, it is considered unlikely that the proposed development will impact the species in the local area. Additionally, prey species of the Powerful Owl, including the Yellow-bellied Glider are expected to remain in the area in viable numbers post development.

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7.2.3 Masked Owl As with the Powerful Owl, the Masked Owl has also previously been located in the region, however was not detected during nocturnal surveys. The species has potential to occasionally forage over the site and surrounding area, however no suitable roosting or nesting sites were identified upon the subject land. As a result of the proposal no nesting or habitat elements important to the species lifecycle will be impacted. Prey species are expected to remain in the area in viable numbers post development.

7.2.4 Olive Whistler The Olive Whistler is known to inhabit, Leptospermum shrubland and woodland and the adjacent Murramarang National Park is known to house areas of Leptospermum dominated vegetation communities and forests and records of the species are in existence within the park. As such the Olive Whistler is known from the region, and the subject land may form part of its foraging habitat on occasion. The retention of the vegetation around the wetland and the will ensure the majority of the potential habitat of the Olive Whistler is conserved on the subject land. These areas, along with the larger reserved areas within Murramarang National Park will retain habitat for the species, an it is thus not thought that the development will have a significant impact on the Olive Whistler.

7.2.5 Grey Headed Flying Fox The Grey-headed Flying Fox has been recorded as occurring in the region, however the species was not detected during nocturnal surveys conducted in December 2004. No roost sites (camps) were found on the subject land. An whilst the species may forage over flowering eucalypt species in the area on occasion, foraging habitat will remain for the species, both on the subject land and within Murramarang National Park, and it is not expected that the proposal impact upon the species.

8 Eurobodalla Shire Council Policy on Yellow-bellied Gliders

The Eurobodalla Shire Council, in conjunction with the National Parks and Wildlife Service developed the Policy for the Conservation of the Yellow-bellied Glider in the Broulee Area (Eurobodalla Shire Council, 2002). This document generally recommends that hollow-bearing and feed trees be maintained on sites of proposed developments, along with sufficient trees to enable transport of gliders to and from adjacent forested areas. Although applying to a specific region of the Eurobodalla Shire, the Policy aims to provide a platform for a similar approach to the entire Coastal Plains of the Eurobodalla Shire. The study site falls outside the specified Policy area however it has been taken into consideration as an important part of this flora and fauna study.

In accordance with Item 4 of the Code of Practice outlined in this Policy the following minimum standards for developments leading to land clearing of Yellow-bellied Glider habitat will apply: 1. Retention of all sap-trees; 2. Retention of all large hollow-bearing trees (i.e. those trees with a diameter at breast height (dbh) >50 cm in diameter), except where it can be demonstrated that Yellow- bellied Gliders do not utilise the hollow-bearing tree; 3. Clearing of vegetation around these retained habitat elements must not inhibit access of Yellow-bellied Gliders to these resources; and 4. Retained vegetation must be configured to allow movement of individual Yellow-bellied Gliders across the property and onto suitable habitat on adjoining properties.

If a proposed development adheres to these minimum standards, it is forecast that a significant impact on the Yellow-bellied Glider or its habitat will be avoided. This will be subsequently confirmed when applying the Eight Part Test of significance in compliance with Section 5A of the TSC Act (1995).

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A number of Yellow-bellied gliders were observed in Murramarang National Park to the south of the subject land during the nocturnal survey, and one was seen to be foraging upon the a tree on the subject land. No den sites in the form of hollow-bearing trees were located on the study site and no incised feed trees were located on the subject land, although a feed tree was noted to the southwest of the land along a track in Murramarang National Park. Although the species may forage over the land from time to time, the species lifecycle will not be impacted by the proposed development. Extensive habitat for the species is located within the 12096 ha reserved in the adjacent Murramarang National park.

The public reserve will comprise an area of approximately 1.2 ha, which is approximately 35% of the subject land and this area along with the remaining vegetation will conserve vegetation over approximately 60% of the area of the subject land. The proposed development thus falls within the requirements of the Eurobodalla Shire Council’s Policy on Yellow-bellied Gliders and thus it is not expected that there be a significant impact to this species as a result of the proposed development.

9 SEPP 44: Koala Habitat Protection

State Environmental Planning Policy (SEPP) 44-Koala Habitat Protection was introduced in 1995 in an effort to better manage the dwindling numbers of Koalas in NSW. SEPP 44 applies to land in which a development application has been made that has an area of more than one hectare or has together with any adjoining land in the same ownership, an area of more than one hectare (whether or not the DA applies to the whole or part of the land).

SEPP 44 aims to identify areas of ‘potential’ and ‘core’ Koala Habitat. These are described as follows:

• Potential Koala Habitat is defined as areas of native vegetation where the trees listed in Schedule 2 of SEPP 44 constitute at least 15% of the total number of trees in the upper or lower strata of the tree component; and • Core Koala Habitat is defined as an area of land with a resident population of koalas, evidenced by attributes such as breeding females, and recent and historical records of a population. No evidence was found of Koalas on the study site, and no preferred Koala feed trees were identified on the subject land. The subject land therefore contains neither potential nor core Koala Habitat and no impacts to the species are anticipated.

10 Eight Part Test

The Eight Part Test is the informal title for the process set out in Section 5A of the Threatened Species Conservation Act 1995. It details how to determine where there is likely to be a ‘significant effect’ on threatened species, endangered populations or communities or their habitats. If a ‘significant effect’ is forecast a more specific Species Impact Statement report will be required.

In the case of threatened species, whether the life cycle of the species is likely to be A. disrupted such that a viable local population is likely to be placed at risk of extinction.

A number of Yellow-bellied Gliders responded to call playback and were observed during the nocturnal surveys within Murramarang National Park to the south of the subject land. One individual was also observed on the subject land within one of the larger trees. The land is likely to form the northern extent of the home range of a family group. The home range of the species is thought to be in the vicinity of 35 ha (Strahan, 1995). No hollow bearing trees or incised glider feed trees were recorded on the subject land, although a feed tree was noted within Murramarang National Park, along the access track to the southwest. Murramarang National Park has a total area of 12096 ha and the eucalypt forest within would form home range for several groups of Yellow-bellied Gliders. As such the removal of the degraded area

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of vegetation on the western portion of the land, will reduce the foraging area of the Yellow- bellied Glider by approximately 1 ha, this is not expected to result in impacts to the lifecycle of the species, and as such it is not expected that the proposed development will place the viable local population of the Yellow-bellied Glider at risk of extinction. Ten species of Microchiropteran Bats were detected across the site as a result of AnaBat™ ultrasonic call detection. Three of these species, the Eastern False Pipistrelle, Eastern Bent- wing Bat and the Eastern Free-tail Bat are listed as vulnerable under the TSC Act. No structures important to the lifecycle of these species such as maternity caves, hollow bearing trees or similar structures were found on the subject land. The three species are expected to remain foraging over the subject land and within the adjacent Murramarang National Park post development, and no impacts to the species are expected as a result of the proposed development such that their viable local populations are placed at risk of extinction. In the case of an Endangered Population, whether the life cycle of the species that B. constitutes the endangered population is likely to be disrupted such that the viability of the population is likely to be significantly compromised. No Endangered Populations were recorded within the region. In relation to the regional distribution of the habitat of threatened species, population C. or ecological community, whether a significant area of known habitat is to be modified or removed. All of the Swamp Sclerophyll Forest on the subject land will be retained on the subject land post-development and will not be modified or removed as a result of the proposed development.

The proposed development will be removing approximately 1.2 ha of vegetation on the western side, comprising a Spotted Gum – Blackbutt Open Forest. This is only 30% of the area of the subject land. Compared to the area of 12096 ha reserved in Murramarang National Park, it is not considered that the area to be modified or removed as a result of the proposed development is significant. Whether an area of known habitat is likely to become isolated from currently D. interconnecting or proximate areas of habitat for threatened species, population or ecological community The subject land adjoins Murramarang National Park along its southern boundary, however does not connect to vegetation to the north due to residential development along most of the northern boundary. The proposed development will remove the presently degraded vegetation on the western portion, however will not isolate any proximate areas of habitat for threatened species. The Murramarang National Park located to the south of the property will remain connected to adjacent lots and the eastern portion of the property. E. Whether critical habitat will be affected No critical habitat is listed in the region. Whether a threatened species, population or ecological community, or their habitats, are adequately represented in conservation reserves (or similar protected areas) in the F. region. Yellow Bellied Gliders were detected in the adjacent Murramarang National Park both prior to and during the surveys conducted in December 2004. A Policy for the conservation of the glider is presently in place within Eurobodalla Shire, and this aims to preserve habitat for the species on both private land and in reserves (The Policy is discussed in Section 8 of this report). Along with Murramarang National Park, other conservation reserves in the region where the gliders are known to occur include; Meroo National Park; Clyde River National Park and Benandarah State Forest. The species is thus considered to be adequately represented in conservation reserves.

Records of the Eastern Bentwing Bat exist for Murramarang National Park Eurobodalla;

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Jervis Bay, and Royal National Parks and the Eastern Freetail Bat has been recorded previously in a number of reserves including Eurobodalla; Monga; Bugong National Parks; as well as Bodalla State Forest. No previous records exist in the local area for the Eastern False Pipistrelle, and little information is known about the species. Records from the Atlas of NSW Wildlife show the species in the Eurobodalla Shire further to the south near Dalmeny and also from Badja State Forest. The species is thought to roost in stems of living eucalypts and is likely to have similar habitat requirements to other microchiropteran species. Although few records exist for the species, adequate habitat for all three species is likely to be present in within Murramarang National Park.

The Endangered Ecological Community, ‘Swamp Sclerophyll Forest on Coastal Floodplains of the NSW North Coast, Sydney Basin and South East Corner bioregions’ has been extensively cleared and modified with less than 30% of its original extent remaining. The community is known to occur in Murramarang and Conjola National Parks and other various coastal reserves in NSW. Additionally, due to its presence on low-lying areas, the community is also likely to be present within buffer areas surrounding land protected under SEPP 14 – Coastal Wetlands. Whether the development or activity is of a class of development or activity that is G. recognised as a threatening process. Schedule 3 of the Threatened Species Conservation Act (1995), lists processes considered threatening. Those potentially affected by the proposal are listed below.

‘Clearing of Native Vegetation’ Clearing of native vegetation has been identified as a key threatening process. However the small amount of vegetation removal required as a result of the proposed development is not considered to be a significant threat to species found on the site or recorded in the vicinity of the study area.

Whether any threatened species, population or ecological community is at the limit of H. its known distribution. None of the species identified on the subject land are known to be at the limit of their range in the area.

The results from this Eight Part Test indicate that the proposed subdivision of Lot 2 DP867104 Banyandah Street, South Durras will not have a significant effect on threatened species, populations or communities or their habitats. Threatened species recorded in the local area will be able to maintain their populations in the local area and vegetation retained within the conservation reserve on the eastern side of the subject land will retain the endangered ecological community and provide suitable breeding and foraging areas for threatened species in the area.

11 Conclusions

The Eight Part Test carried out as part of this report was based on field surveys undertaken in December 2004 on the study area, Lot 2 Banyandah Street, South Durras, and has established that the proposed development will not have a significant effect on any threatened species, populations or communities, or their habitats. It is therefore concluded that a Species Impact Statement will not be required for this proposal.

Four species of conservation significance were identified across the site during field surveys, namely the Yellow-bellied Glider, Eastern False Pipistrelle, Eastern Bentwing bat and the Eastern Freetail-bat. The proposed development is not expected to have a significant impact on the populations of these species in the local area due to the lack of suitable breeding habitat on site and the proximity of the subject land to Murramarang National Park.

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The vegetation on the western side of the subject land has been impacted through clearing and continued management, and a number of exotic species have established adjacent the existing residential area. The Spotted Gum – Blackbutt Forest is contiguous with the vegetation within Murramarang National Park to the south of the subject land. The vegetation surrounding the wetland is floristically similar to Swamp Sclerophyll Forest, an endangered ecological community. This eastern area of the subject land is to be dedicated as a public reserve, and will not be impacted as a result of the proposed development and will provide suitable habitat for a number of species within the region.

The common species detected during the surveys are likely to persist in the area.

Recommendations to reduce impacts of the proposed development on threatened and other species on the site are detailed below in Section 12.

12 Recommendations

A. Where possible some well-established trees should be retained within the area of the proposed development within Rural Fire Service Regulations should remain on the land to provide habitat and retain the site’s natural amenity post-development. Those trees to be retained should be clearly marked and a Tree Protection Zone established at the base of the tree to avoid mechanical damage and compaction surrounding the tree base; B. Measures should be put in place to minimise erosion and sedimentation which may occur as a result of construction, particularly in regard to retaining water quality in the intermittent drainage line and wetland on the subject land. These should be inspected and maintained on a regular basis during construction activities and immediately after storms; C. Cleared vegetation should not be pushed onto or dumped on adjacent bushland; D. To prevent soil compaction, mechanical damage to trees and disturbance to vegetation, vehicles, machinery and building refuse associated with the development should remain within the disturbed areas and should not impinge upon areas of adjacent bushland, particularly within Murramarang National Park and within the new public reserve; E. Consideration should be made towards possible offer to the Department of Environment and Conservation for acquisition of the wetland on the eastern side of the subject land, as this area cannot be developed and management of the wetland which falls adjacent to the National Park would be enhanced through management in association with the Murramarang National Park; F. If the above is not feasible, management of the Public Reserve should be undertaken in association with a Plan of Management; G. Contaminants and rubbish should be collected and removed from the construction area; H. Clearing of native vegetation outside Rural Fire Service requirements should be avoided where possible. Local provenance species should be used in future gardens or landscaping. Those species with potential to spread into the National Park should be avoided; I. No dumping of garden waste should occur adjacent Murramarang National Park; J. Weed species presently on the subject land should be removed using recognised bushland regeneration techniques; K. With regard to the wetland area, use of fertilisers and pesticides should be kept to an absolute minimum; L. Future residents should carefully monitor the movements of cats and dogs, or be restricted in their possession of such animals, due to the prevalence of native species throughout the South Durras area. Access of domestic animals to the surrounding bushland, particularly Murramarang National Park should be restricted at all times particularly at night;

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The findings contained within this report are the result of discrete/specific methodologies used in accordance with recognised practices. To the best of our knowledge they represent a reasonable interpretation of the general conditions of the site.

13 Bibliography

Australian Museum (2004) Australian Museum Online. Retrieved 21/01/2004 at http://www.amonline.net.au/

Botanic Gardens Trust (17-Aug-05). PlantNET - The Plant Information Network System of Botanic Gardens Trust, Sydney, Australia http://plantnet.rbgsyd.nsw.gov.au

Briggs, J. and Leigh, J. (1996). Rare or Threatened Australian Plants. CSIRO, Collingswood.

Cogger, H.G. (2000) Reptiles and Amphibians of Australia 6th Ed. Reed New Holland, Sydney.

Daly, G. (2001) Assessment of Fauna Habitat Linkages and Considerations for Management. Select Rural Residential Areas, Eurobodalla Shire. Prepared for: Eurobodalla Shire Council for the Eurobodalla Environmental Capacity Planning Project. Gaia Research Pty Ltd.

Department of Environment and Conservation (2003) Threatened Species. Retrieved 21/01/2004 at: http://www.nationalparks.nsw.gov.au/npws.nsf/Content/Threatened+Species

Eurobodalla Shire Council (1999) Eurobodalla Shire Council Urban Local Environmental Plan 1999 Eurobodalla Shire Council, Moruya Eurobodalla Shire Council (2002), Policy for the Conservation of the Yellow-bellied Glider in the Broulee Area. Environment and Administrative Services, Eurobodalla Shire Council.

Harden, G. (ed.) (1990- 93). Flora of NSW. Volumes 1 to 4. Royal Botanic Gardens/ University of NSW Press, Sydney.

Harris, R. (1974) Ulladulla, Metallogenic Map Sheet Geological Survey of NSW, Department of Mines

Lewis D.P. (2003) The Owl Pages: Information About Owls Retrieved 21/01/2004 at http://www.owlpages.com/

McIlveen G. (1973) Ulladulla 1:250000 Metallogenic Map Sheet. Geol. Surv. NSW, Sydney McIlveen G. (1973) Ulladulla 1:250000 Metallogenic Map Sheet. Geol. Surv. NSW, Sydney National Parks Association (2001) Reptile and Frog Survey Methods

New South Wales (1979) Environmental Planning and Assessment Act 1979. NSW Government Printer, Sydney.

NSW National Parks and Wildlife Service (2003). Recovery Plan for the Yellow-bellied Glider (Petaurus australis). NSW National Parks and Wildlife Service, Hurstville.

NSW Rural Fire Service (2001) Planning for Bushfire Protection. planningnsw, Sydney. Pizzey, G. (1980) A Field Guide to the Birds of Australia. Collins: Sydney.

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Robinson. L (1994). A Field Guide to the Native Plants of Sydney. Kangaroo Press, Sydney, NSW.

Simpson K., Day, N. and Trusler, P. (1999) Field Guide to the Birds of Australia 6th Ed. Penguin Books Australia, Ringwood.

SLCC (2000) Compilation and Interpretation of Soil Survey Data for Eurobodalla Shire. SLCC Technical Report 00/101, Feb 2000. Stewart, D. (1998) Australian Frog Calls – Subtropical East. Recorded and Produced by David Stewart, Nature Sound, Mullumbimby.

Stewart, D. (1998). Nocturnal Bird and Mammal Calls of South East New South Wales. Recorded and Produced by David Stewart, Nature Sound, Mullumbimby.

Strahan, R. (Ed) (1995). The Mammals of Australia. Reed Books, Sydney.

Triggs, B. (1996) Tracks, Scats and Other Traces. A Field Guide to Australian Mammals. Oxford University Press Australia, Melbourne.

US Geological Survey (USGS), (2004) Non-indigenous Aquatic Species Database. Retrieved online 28/1/2004 at: http://nas.er.usgs.gov/queries/SpFactSheet.asp?speciesID=56

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Appendix 1

P M A C O N S U L T I N G

Appendix 2

P M A C O N S U L T I N G

Appendix 3

P M A C O N S U L T I N G

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Table A3-1: Threatened plant species recorded within a 10 km radius of the subject land. Known Distribution and Family/Name Species Information Occurrence in Conservation Areas ORCHIDACEAE Saprophytic, favouring dry sclerophyll Recorded in Flat Rock State Cryptostylis hunteriana forests, heaths, dunes (including Forest; Meroo NP; Barnunj stabilised sands), riparian (stream- State Forest; Conjola NP; Leafless Tongue Orchid side) areas, swampy forests, swampy Morton NP areas and wetlands. Vulnerable Infrequently found due to cryptic nature. The Queensland record is a ROTAP CODE: 3VC- recent find (Logan, 1998). Flowering occurs during summer. Flowers are green, red, black, and are carried on an axillary (lateral) raceme. Foliage is absent or reduced and apparently absent, and the leaves are scales.

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Table A3-2: NSW NPWS Atlas data of Threatened Species found within a 10 km radius of the subject land. (Sources: NSW Wildlife Atlas, 2004; NPWS, 2003, Cogger, 2000; Strahan, 1995; IUCN, 2004; Gillespie 1996; Lewis, 2003).

Conservation Reserve Name Species Information Threats Locations and Distribution Green and Golden Bell Found among vegetation within or at the edges of Alteration of drainage patterns and National Parks Frog permanent water – streams, swamps, lagoons, farm dams stormwater runoff Jervis Bay, Kooragang Island, Myall Litoria aurea and ornamental ponds Fungal pathogen Lakes, *Royal, Seven Mile Beach, Often found under debris on low oft-flooded river flats. Water quality changes Yuragir Endangered Frequently active by day – is one of only a few frogs known Predation by feral animals Nature Reserves to bask in the sunlight Herbicides and other weed control Nadgee, Towra Point, *Tyagarah.

Amphibians Amphibians They are mostly nocturnal but also active by day, rarely measures State Recreation Areas climbing up vegetation Road mortality Killalea Inhabits marshes, dams and streamsides, particularly those Predation by exotic fish containing bulrushes Typha species or Spikerushes Loss of suitable breeding habitat Eleocharis species through alteration by infilling and Optimum habitat includes water bodies which are unshaded, destruction of wetlands free of predatory fish Gambusia holbrooki, have a grassy area nearby and diurnal sheltering sites available such as vegetation and/or rocks Has been associated with almost every type of water body except fast flowing streams Some sites (particularly in the Greater Sydney region, are in highly disturbed areas such as disused industrial sites, brick pits, landfill areas and even cleared land (NPWS, 2003) Show some tolerance to pollutants and salinity All habitats are characterised by stationary water Virtually all isolated water bodies are free of native fish species and typically have dense emergent vegetation Can be found in a diversity of terrestrial habitats including lowland forest, Banksia woodland, wet heathland, riparian scrub complex, riparian shrubland, riparian forest, damp forest, shrubby dry forest and cleared pastoral lands (Gillespie 1996)

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Conservation Reserve Name Species Information Threats Locations and Distribution Australasian Bittern Inhabits terrestrial and estuarine wetlands, generally where Grazing and trampling of riparian National Parks Botaurus poiciloptilus there is permanent water vegetation and siltation of Guy Fawkes River, Eurobodalla, Prefers wetlands with dense vegetation, including sedges, waterbodies by livestock Seven Mile Beach, Dharug, Vulnerable rushes and reeds Predation by foxes Willandra, Gibraltar Range

Reptiles Reptiles Prefers freshwater, although dense saltmarsh vegetation in Altered flooding regimes, particularly Bundjalung Kinchega Bournda. estuaries and flooded grasslands are also used by the inland Nature Reserves species Clearing of riparian vegetation and Morrisons Lake, Cecil Hoskins, draining of habitat Maquarie Marshes, Montague Drainage, salinisation, siltation and Island, Hexham Swamp, Kooragang, pollution of wetlands and Lake Innes waterbodies State Recreation Areas Degradation of drought refuges Killalea Poor representation of preferred habitats in conservation reserves

Barking Owl Most common in woodlands, although they inhabit well- Habitat loss and degradation Numerous Reserved areas Ninox connivens forested hill and riverine woodlands and partially cleared Predation by feral species including: areas also appearing occasionally near or in rural towns and Clearing of forest and woodlands Birds Vulnerable well-treed suburbs Logging and firewood harvesting National Parks Ideal habitat is open country with a choice of large trees for Scheyville, Dharug, Wollemi, Lane roosting and nesting in Cove, Garigal In the southern districts creeks and rivers are preferred, particularly with River Red Gums, isolated stands of trees (others listed in Recovery Plan) and open woodland Often return to same roost for months or years Nest in large hollows up to 30 m above the ground, in trunks or large limbs of trees Occasionally nest in deep tree forks, rock crevices and rabbit burrows

Black-browed Albatross Circumpolar in distribution Long-line fishing operations National Parks Thalassarche melanophris In Australian waters occurs along the east coast from Disturbance to nesting colonies by Botany Bay Stradbroke Island along the entire south coast of the predators Vulnerable continent to Western Australia Pollution from plastics, oils and Migrates to waters off the continental shelf from chemicals approximately May to November Islands of Australia and New Zealand provide breeding habitat Spends the majority of time at sea, feeding on fish, crustaceans, offal and cephalopods Known breeding locations include Macquarie, Heard and

Mammals (Excl Bats) Antipodes Islands

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Conservation Reserve Name Species Information Threats Locations and Distribution Black Bittern Both terrestrial and estuarine wetlands Grazing and trampling of riparian National Parks

Ixobrychust flavicollis Generally in areas of permanent water with dense vegetation by cattle Dorrigo, Blue Mountains, Scheyville,

B vegetation, where this is present the species may occur in Predation by feral cats Cattai, Dharug, Yuragir, Nightcap, Vulnerable flooded grassland, forest, woodland, rainforest and Clearing of riparian vegetation Bundjalung, Brunswick Heads mangroves Drainage, salinisation, siltation and Nature Reserves pollution of wetlands and water Comerong Island, Ukerebagh, bodies. Nadgee icrochirop Poor representation of preferred M ter habitats in conservation reserves Brown Treecreeper Eucalypt woodlands, particularly open woodland lacking a Threatened by clearance and Nature Reserves Climacteris picumnus dense understorey fragmentation of woodland habitat Munghorn Gap (near Mudgee) – Nests in tree hollows within permanent territories, breeding including removal of dead timber known here Vulnerable in pairs or communally in small groups. Increased isolation decreases Birds forage on tree trunks and on the ground amongst leaf treecreeper vagility and increases litter and on fallen logs for ants, beetles and larvae the vulnerability of populations to Appears unable to maintain viable populations in remnants extinction as a result of stochastic Invertebrates less then 200 ha and its abundance decreases as remnant events size decreases Fragmentation leads to a skewed sex because female birds are unable to disperse to isolated remnants, increasing the chance of local extinctions Habitat degradation, including loss of hollow bearing trees Grazing by stock in woodland areas leads to a decrease the diversity of ground-dwelling invertebrates decreasing the availability of food Increased competition with aggressive honeyeater species and increased levels of nest predation that are a consequence of fragmentation of habitat

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Conservation Reserve Name Species Information Threats Locations and Distribution Fleshy-footed Pelagic trans-equatorial migrant, and in the breeding season Predation by raptors, King Skinks , World Heritage Areas Shearwater is widely distributed across the southern Indian Ocean and cats and foxes Lord Howe Island Puffinus carneipes southeastern Pacific Ocean Human settlement destroying habitat National Parks A breeding and non-breeding visitor to the coastal and Historically slaughtered in large Ben Boyd, Bundjalung Vulnerable pelagic waters of southern Australia numbers for food, feathers and oil State Recreation Areas Locally common and present in southern Australia in all Munmorah months of the year Breeding may occur on islands within the Australasian region and Indian Ocean Marine Mammals Nests are made in burrows on gentle to steep slopes A variety of vegetation communities including forests, shrublands and grasslands provide suitable nesting sites Oceanic Coastal

Glossy Black-Cockatoo Forests on sites with low soil nutrient status, generally Habitat fragmentation National Parks Calyptorhynchus lathami reflecting the distribution of key Allocasuarina spp. on which Loss of habitat through clearing and Murramarang, Meroo, Morton, Jervis they feed associated activities Bay, Conjola, Budawang Vulnerable Drier forest types with intact and less rugged landscapes Logging of nest trees within the State Forests preferred proximity of food resources Yadboro, South Brooman, Boyne Inappropriate fire regimes

Hooded Plover Sandy beaches, rarely on coastal lakes Artificially high populations of National Parks Thinornis rubricollis Inland salt lakes Silver Gulls around human Ben Boyd, Mimosa Rocks, Bournda, Species occurs along the coast from Jervis Bay to the settlements leading to increased Eurobodalla, Murramarang Endangered western Eyre Peninsula in South Australia, along the predation Nature Reserves coast of Tasmania and in the Bass Strait islands and on Predation by foxes and raptors Nadgee, Narrawallee Creek south Western Australian Coast Loss of habitat Within NSW occurs along the southern coast to Jervis Human disturbance, particularly Bay with occasional vagrants sighted further north at during the breeding season Wollongong Destruction of nests by stock Found most often on long stretches of sandy shore with wide wave-wash zone, backed by tussock and creeper covered dunes with seaweed for feeding and backed by sparsely vegetated sand dunes for shelter and nesting Species is both diurnal and nocturnal

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Conservation Reserve Name Species Information Threats Locations and Distribution

Lesser Sand Plover Breeds on stepps, deserts, predominantly at high altitudes in Hydrological changes in Clarence Species is migratory, however some Charadrius mongolus the northern hemisphere and Richmond estuaries removes protected habitat in reserves In Australia the species favours coastal environments suitable habitats Vulnerable including beaches, mudflats and mangroves Tourism or agricultural developments In NSW have been observed on intertidal and mudflats in reducing coastal and inland habitat estuaries, or roosting on sandy beaches or rocky shores at areas high tide Forages on wet intertidal flats usually away from waters edge

Little Shearwater Subtropical/tropical waters of Atlantic, Pacific and Indian Loss of nesting habitat due to resort World Heritage Areas Puffinus assimilis Oceans development and dune erosion Lord Howe Island Feeds in continental shelf waters Disturbance of breeding birds by National Parks Vulnerable Breeds on subtropical and Antarctic Islands where soil is soft humans Royal, Yuragir and suitable for burrowing Desertion of breeding colonies with State Recreation Areas Burrows located in tussock grassland, shrubland, woodlands intro of predators including rats, feral Munmorah and under mats of succulents including Carpobrotus, cats and dogs Nitraria, Rhagodia, Atriplex, Tetragonia, Melaleuca, or among loose rocks

Masked Owl Forest and open woodland Inappropriate fire regimes reducing National Parks Tyto novaehollandiae Also found in treeless country where cave shelters are prey Blue Mountains; Conjola; Deua; available Conversion of native forests to Jerviis Bay; Monga; Murramarang; Vulnerable Roosts in the day in tree hollows, caves or heavy foliage plantations Morton; Nattai; Seven Mile Beach; Habitat destruction and South East Forest; Wadbilliga; fragmentation Meroo Loss of tree hollows for breeding State Forests Dampier; Currowan; Boyne; Moruya State Conservation Areas Bungonia Other various reserves in NSW

Olive Whistler Tall wet forest, rainforest, woodland, alpine heaths Clearing for agriculture, plantations National Parks Pachycephala olivacea Feeds on ground-dwelling insects and towns Ben Boyd; Mount Imlay; South East subsp. olivacea Nests in dense shrubs or low trees Fragmentation resulting in isolation Forest; Biamanga; Gulago; Gourock; Budderoo; Seven Mile Beach; Vulnerable Brindabella Nature Reserves Cambewarra Range State Forest Badja; Mogo

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Conservation Reserve Name Species Information Threats Locations and Distribution

Osprey Worldwide distribution Were threatened by egg collecting Not known, nest sites may be used Pandion haliaetus Coastal environments and shooting in the 19th – early 20th over a period of years Build large nests in either large trees or on the ground where century Vulnerable not threatened by predators Use of DDT nest sites may be used over a period of years Predation on eggs in the nest Wide range Nests generally found within 3-5 km of water bodies including salt marshes, mangroves, swamps etc.

Pied Oystercatcher Coastal areas throughout Australia apart from areas of Predation on nest sites National Parks Haematopus longirostris unbroken sea-cliffs Loss of habitat Seven Mile Beach; Comerong Prefers mudflats, sandbanks and sandy ocean beaches Island; Jervis Bay; Conjola; Vulnerable Less common along rocky or shingle coastlines Murramerang; Eurobodalla; Mimosa Rocks

Powerful Owl Wet, hilly sclerophyll forest with dense gullies adjacent to Inappropriate fire regimes reducing National Parks Ninox strenua more open forest prey Murramarang; Meroo; Deua Also occurs in smaller, drier forest, as long as there are Conversion of native forests to State Forests Vulnerable some large tree hollows and an adequate supply of prey plantations Moyne; Currowan; Mogo; Moruya; Nests in large, vertical hollows e.g. broken-off trunk and Habitat destruction and North Brooman horizontal/sloping spouts often in very old large eucalypts fragmentation Other various reserves in NSW Loss of tree hollows for breeding

Providence Petrel Pelagic distribution, particularly during non-breeding season Predation by cats Migratory species Pterodroma solandri Mainly subtropical in southwest Pacific Ocean, including the Sensitive to impact of feral Tasman Sea animals such as pigs and goats Vulnerable During breeding season the species can be found in coastal Historically eaten by humans waters of the eastern Australian Coast In NSW species occurs along the entire coast, however most often on the northern coast Breeding sites include Mount Lidgbird and Mount Gower on Lord Howe Island Species nests in burrows or rock crevices on forested, upper slopes

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Conservation Reserve Name Species Information Threats Locations and Distribution

Regent Honeyeater Temperate eucalypt woodland and open forest Loss and fragmentation of habitat National Parks Xanthomyza phrygia Mostly recorded from box-ironbark eucalyptus associations through clearing Yengo, Warrumbungle, Wollemi, and we lowland coastal forests dominated by Swamp Reduction in large flowering Scheyville, Goulburn River, Endangered Mahogany, Spotted Gum, and riverine Casuarina woodland eucalyptus in woodlands Broadwater, Bundjalung, Yuragir, Remnant timber stands, roadside reserves, travelling stock Grazing by domestic stock and Nattai, Brisbane Waters, Ingalba, reserves, and street trees also provide habitat at certain rabbits preventing habitat Hat Head, Royal, Seven Mile Beach times regeneration Nature Reserves Nests frequently located in Red Ironbark and Red River Competition with other Munghorn Gap, Pilliga, Gum but also may be in other eucalypts, mistletoe clumps honeyeaters Cocklebay, The Charcoal and Casuarinas Tank

Shy Albatross Migratory species with circumpolar distribution Long-line fishing National Parks Diomedea cauta Known to breed on islands off Australia and New Zealand Predation and disturbance by Ben Boyd Along the eastern coastline this species is relatively rare introduced predators Vulnerable north of Sydney but is commonly found off the NSW South Pollution from plastics, chemicals, Coast oils and other refuse Nests area located on rocky islets and stacks lacking Historically feather collection affected vegetation and soil breeding populations of this species

Sooty Owl Deep gullies in eucalypt forest usually with big, old, smooth- Clearing and fragmentation of habitat National Parks Tyto tenebricosa barked gums and an understorey of treeferns and Lilly Pilly Short rotation of logging cycles (<80 Deua; Murramarang; May move into drier forest to hunt years) reducing the number of State Forests Vulnerable nesting sites Bolaro; Mogo; Buckenbowra Other various reserves in NSW

Sooty Oystercatcher Concentrated in areas such as the Bass Strait Islands Predation on nest sites Important breeding sites are the Five Haematopus fuliginosus and Illawarra Nest disturbance Islands off Port Kembla, Bowen Nest on offshore islands that are free from predators Island, Brush and Blowla Islands and Vulnerable such as foxes, cats, dogs and people Tollgate Island.

Sooty Tern Widespread in tropics with occasional sightings on the Disturbance to breeding colonies Has been recorded in Lord Howe Sterna fuscata west and east coasts. Predation of eggs by humans Island World Heritage Area Forages offshore usually only observed onshore breeding Predation of eggs and chicks by Vulnerable or forced in by stormy weather cats, rats and other birds Infestation of colonies by virus infected ticks

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Conservation Reserve Name Species Information Threats Locations and Distribution

Southern Giant Petrel Circumpolar pelagic range from Antarctica to approximately • Mortality via longline fishing Species is migratory o Macronectes giganteus 20 S • Predation from feral cats and black rats Common visitor off the entire length of the New South Wales • Habitat degradation from feral species Endangered coast • Hunting Nests over summer in small colonies amongst open • In NSW loss of southern cuttlefish vegetation on Antarctic and subantarctic islands, including populations Macquarie and Heard Islands and in Australian Antarctic • Illegal longline fishing territory • Oil spills

Striated Fieldwren Found in damp coastal and mountain heaths, salt marsh Loss of habitat National Parks Calamanthus fuliginosus in areas with sparse low ground cover Eurobodalla

Vulnerable

Swift Parrot Drier open forests, woodlands, parks and gardens Loss of winter food sources National Parks Lathamus discolor Woodlands and forests in NSW from May to August through conversion of native Mimosa Rocks; Murramarang; Feeds on eucalypt nectar, pollen and associated insects woodlands and forests to other Nattai; Scheyville; Kur-ing-gai chase; Endangered Breeds in Tasmania land uses associated with human Botany Bay; Sydney Harbour Dependent on flowering resources across a wide range of development Nature Reserves habitat Barren Grounds

Turquoise Parrot Steep rocky ridges and gullies, rolling hills, valleys, river flats Loss of habitat through clearing, National Parks Neophema pulchella and nearby plains of the Great Dividing Range intensive logging, burning and Kosciusko; Conjola; Jervis Bay; Forests/woodlands usually have mixed assemblages of grazing Morton; Blue Mountains; Myall Vulnerable native pine Callitris and a variety of Eucalyptus species, Destruction of sites containing Lakes; particularly White Box E. albens, Yellow Box, E. melliodora, hollows which may be used for Nature Reserves Blakely’s Red Gum E. blakelyi, Red Box E. polyanthemos, nesting Nadgee Red stringybarkE. Macrorhyncha, Bimble Box E. populnea Inappropriate fire regimes which State Conservation Areas or Mulga Ironbark E. sideroxylon remove nesting and feeding Yerranderie Also recorded in savannah and riparian woodland and resources farmland in edges of forest and pasture or other grasslands

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Conservation Reserve Name Species Information Threats Locations and Distribution

Brush-tailed Phascogale Patchy distribution around the coast of Australia from near Loss and fragmentation of habitat Has been recorded in National Phascogale tapoatafa sea level up to 1500 m through clearing for agriculture and Parks, Nature Reserves and State In NSW it appears to be most abundant in the northeast and urban development Recreation Areas on the south, mid- Vulnerable southeast of the State, particularly within forest habitats on Logging of hollow bearing trees north and north coast and adjacent the Great Dividing Range suitable for nesting inland areas of New South Wales Prefers dry sclerophyll open forest with a sparse ground Inappropriate fire regimes leading to cover of herbs, grasses, scleromorphic shrubs or leaf litter a reduction in foraging and shelter Individuals may also inhabit heathland, swamps, rainforest resources and wet sclerophyll forest Predation by foxes and cats Occurs primarily where annual rainfall exceeds 500 mm Competition for suitable hollows with Arboreal, foraging preferentially in rough-barked trees of 25 the introduced honeybee cm DBH or greater Nocturnal and carnivorous Females inhabit territories of approximately 20-60 ha, while the males maintain territories of up to 100 ha Nests in shelters in tree hollows 25-40 mm wide lined with leaves and shreeded bark, may utilise many different hollows over a short time span

Grey-headed Flying-fox Subtropical and temperate rainforests, tall sclerophyll forest Loss and Fragmentation of habitat Likely to be reserved locally in Pteropus poliocephalus and woodland, heaths and swamps through clearing and associated nearby national parks. Known colony activities in Comerong Island Nature Reserve Vulnerable Inappropriate fire regimes may deplete food resources and isolate populations Making them susceptible to regional catastrophic events Predation by foxes and cats

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Conservation Reserve Name Species Information Threats Locations and Distribution

Spotted-tailed Quoll Most arboreal habitats, particularly rainforests Loss, fragmentation and degradation National Parks Dasyurus maculatus Recorded in sclerophyll forest and woodland, coastal of habitat through clearing of native Monga; Deua; Murramarang; heathland and rainforest vegetation and subsequent Morton; Kanangra; Boyd Vulnerable Occasionally sighted in open country, grazing lands, rocky development, logging and frequent State Forests outcrops and other treeless areas fire Flat Rock Habitat requirements include suitable den sites such as Loss of hollow bearing logs and Other various reserves in NSW hollow logs, tree hollows, rock outcrops or caves and other potential den sites abundance of food present Competition for food and predation Requires large areas of intact vegetation through which to by cats and foxes forage Spread of epidemics, such as parasitic protozoan, by cats to the quolls Historically this species was persecuted by humans following perceived predation on stock and poultry Direct poisoning by dingo and fox baiting

Squirrel Glider Dry sclerophyll forest and woodland, Box-Ironbark forest and Loss, fragmentation and degradation National Parks Petaurus norfolcensis woodland of habitat through clearing of native Gulaga; Deua; Murramarang; Tarlo Diverse range of communities including Blackbutt, Forest vegetation and subsequent River; Blue Mountains Vulnerable Red Gum, Red Bloodwood Forests, Coastal Banksia development, logging and frequent State Forests heathland and Grey Gum/Spotted Gum/Grey Ironbark dry fire Badja; hardwood forests of Central Coast Loss of den sites such as hollow logs Other various reserves in NSW Requires hollow-bearing trees and mix of acacias and Competition with feral species banksias, suitable vegetation communities have winter Spread of disease by feral species flowering plants and smooth barked eucalypts Dingo baiting

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Conservation Reserve Name Species Information Threats Locations and Distribution

Yellow-bellied Glider Tall mature forest in regions of high rainfall Loss and fragmentation of habitat National Parks Petaurus australis Productive tall open sclerophyll forests with mature trees to through clearing and associated Morton; Meroo; Jervis Bay; provide shelter and nesting hollows and all year food activities Murramarang; Wadbilliga; South Vulnerable resources from eucalypts Removal of hollow bearing nesting East Forest; Kooraban; Conjola; Critical elements include sap-site trees, winter flowering trees through logging of old growth Buddawang eucalypts, mature trees, den site and a mosaic of different elements State Forests forest types. Known feed trees include Corymbia gummifera, Reduction in food resources and Mogo Mumbulla; Moruya; North Eucalyptus maculata, E. viminalis, E. ovata, E. cypellocarpa, isolation of populations through Brooman E. obliqua, E. propinqua, E. punctata dydyma, E. fastigata, inappropriate fire regimes E. radiata, E. intermedia, , E. globoidia, E. muellerana, E. Predation by feral animals agglomerata, E. bosistoana, E. elata, E. signata, E. tereticornis, E. amgophiroides, E. pilularis E. maidenii and Acacia spp

White-footed Dunnart Occurs in forests and woodland with an open understorey of Disturbances which result in dense National Parks Sminthopsis leucopus low density vegetation regrowth Deua; Eurobodalla; Murramarang; In Victoria has been recorded in grassy foredune complexes Loss and fragmentation of habitat Jervis Bay Vulnerable and in Rainforest in Queensland State Forests Not recorded in regrowth forest Currambene Nocturnal, feeding on invertebrates and lizards Rests in tree hollows, rotting logs, woodpiles and similar habitats during the day

Eastern Bent-wing Bat Found in naturally-formed caves and human made Disappearance of mature trees National Parks Miniopterus schreibersii structures including stormwater channels, mines and road containing suitable hollows for Eurobodalla; Murramarang; Jervis oceanensis culverts nesting Bay Gulaga; Royal; Ku-ring-gai Wet and dry sclerophyll forest, open woodland, paperbark Inappropriate logging cycles not chase Vulnerable forests, rainforest and open grassland allowing time for tree hollows to form State Forests Forages above tree canopy Habitat destruction/fragmentation Kiola; Bodalla; Travels large distances between different roosts according Land degradation Other various reserves in NSW to changing seasonal needs, age, and reproductive status Reduction in prey abundance May live greater than 17 years Frequent disturbance of roosts used Preyed upon by owls, pythons, feral cats and occasionally for hibernation seriously increases foxes winter mortality Disturbance to maternity caves

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Conservation Reserve Name Species Information Threats Locations and Distribution

Eastern Freetail-bat Tree hollows or under loose bark of trees in open forests in Disappearance of mature trees National Parks Mormopterus norfolkensis small colonies containing suitable hollows for Eurobodalla; Monga; Bugong; Blue Most records from dry eucalypt forest and woodland east of nesting Mountains Vulnerable the Great Dividing Range Inappropriate logging cycles not State Forests Some individuals caught over a rocky river through rainforest allowing time for tree hollows to form Bodalla and we sclerophyll forest Habitat destruction/fragmentation Land degradation Reduction in prey abundance

Large-footed Myotis Occur near bodies of water, ranging from rainforest Loss of habitat National Parks Myotis adversus streams to large lakes and reservoirs Royal; Blue Mountains; Jervis Bay; Forage over the water on aquatic insects Meroo/ Wadbilliga; Eurobodalla Vulnerable State Conservation Areas Burragorang Other various reserves in NSW

Australian Fur-seal Preys predominately on squid and school fish, and Prior to 1923 commercial sealing Montague Island NR, Booderee NP, Arctocephalus pusillus occasionally on octopus, crustaceans and bottom dwelling depleted the population, thus leaving Nadgee NR subsp. doriferus fish. it more susceptible to other Associated with rocky islands, shore platforms, reefs, threatening processes. Vulnerable boulder stacks and caves close to the sea that are used as Commercial and recreational fishing haul-out sites. operations, especially as a result of Breeds only at ten locations within Bass Strait. by-catch mortality. NSW habitats and resources remain important for non- Fishing operations may also reduce breeding individuals. the size, and thus availability, of prey populations. Entanglement and ingestion of plastic bags and other human refuse that has been discarded inappropriately. Local populations are susceptible to stochastic events such as oil spills.

Humpback Whale Found in coastal waters off Australian coasts Population has been reduced due to Marine Reserves along the coast Megaptera novaeangliae Migrates annually along both east and west coasts of previous exploitation to recover meat Australia. Spends summer in Antarctic waters before and oil products Vulnerable traveling north to breed during the winter months

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