Fauna and Habitat Assessment Location 2812 and 2807 - Witchcliffe

Ecovillage, Witchcliffe

Prepared December 2015 by Litoria Ecoservices for Hulme and Perron Developments Pty Ltd

Fauna and Habitat Assessment Witchcliffe Ecovillage, December 2015

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Fauna and Habitat Assessment Witchcliffe Ecovillage, December 2015

TABLE OF CONTENTS PAGE 1.0 INTRODUCTION ...... 2 1.1 Background ...... 2 1.2 Description of the proposal ...... 2 1.3 Site Description ...... 2 1.4 Assessment Objectives and Scope ...... 3 1.5 Landform ...... 3 1.6 Hydrology ...... 3 1.7 Climate ...... 3 1.8 Vegetation ...... 4 2. METHODOLOGY ...... 5 2.1 Scope of Work ...... 5 2.2 Desktop Review ...... 5 2.3 Reconnaissance Survey...... 5 2.3.1 Active Searching ...... 5 2.3.2 Opportunistic observations ...... 6 2.4 Isolated Habitat Tree assessment ...... 6 2.5 Habitat assessment ...... Error! Bookmark not defined. 3. FAUNA AND HABITAT ASSESSMENT ...... 7 3.1 Variables influencing the assessment ...... 7 3.2 Desktop Review ...... 7 3.2.1 Database Searches ...... 7 3.2.2 Connectivity ...... 8 3.2.3 Other Local Sources ...... 9 3.3 Results of the Reconnaissance Survey...... 9 3.4 Isolated Habitat Tree Assessment ...... 11 3.5 Habitat Assessment ...... 11 4. DISCUSSION ...... 12 4.1 Significant Species ...... 12 4.2 Significant Habitat Features ...... 15 5. CONCLUSIONS AND RECOMMENDATIONS ...... 16 5.1 Conclusions ...... 16 5.2 Recommendations ...... 16 6. REFERENCES ...... 18

APPENDIX 1: RESULTS OF NATURE MAP DATABASE SEARCH ...... 20

APPENDIX 2: RESULTS OF BIRDS AUSTRALIA DATABASE SEARCH ...... 26

APPENDIX 3: INCIDENTAL SIGHTINGS OF MAMMAL AND ...... 29

APPENDIX 4: HABITAT ASSESSMENT RESULTS ...... 30

APPENDIX 5: RESULTS OF ISOLATED HABITAT TREE ASSESSMENT ...... 32

APPENDIX 6: PHOTOS ...... 34

Fauna and Habitat Assessment Witchcliffe Ecovillage, December 2015

FIGURE 1: SITE LOCATION FIGURE 2: CAMERA TRAP LOCATIONS FIGURE 3: SPOTLIGHTING OBSERVATIONS FIGURE 4: ISOLATED HABITAT FEATURES

Fauna and Habitat Assessment Witchcliffe Ecovillage, December 2015

1.0 INTRODUCTION

1.1 Background

Litoria Ecoservices (LE) was commissioned by Perron & Hulme Developments (the proponent) to prepare this report to guide the Environmental Assessment Report (EAR) which is being prepared to support the development of a Structure Plan for an eco-village across Locations 2807 and 2812, Witchcliffe.

1.2 Description of the proposal

The Witchcliffe Ecovillage is a 300 lot ecovillage planned for development in the town of Witchcliffe. The Witchcliffe Ecovillage vision is to create a model of a highly sustainable, self reliant community in a regional village setting, with the best of 21st century technology that enables the community to produce as much energy as it consumes; be self-sufficient in water; care for the local environment; generate ongoing economic and social opportunities for the area, and be self-sufficient in fresh food produce. A place in which people live, work, socialise and provide for their material needs sustainably, where most of what they consume on a daily basis will be produced within the ecovillage, in harmony with the permaculture principles of “earth care, people care, and fair share. The Witchcliffe Ecovillage is designed with an extensive range of onsite infrastructure and services to create an example of sustainable development that achieves: • 100% net renewable power generation on site. • 100% self -sufficiency in water through onsite rainwater harvesting (rooftops and dams). • Self-sufficiency in seasonal fresh foods with surplus produce sold locally. • A local micro energy grid that utilises smart grid technology. • Class A recycled water. • Highly efficient solar passive homes that all front public open space and/or community gardens. • Employment and education opportunities on site and within the revitalised town centre. • Revegetation and protection of remnant vegetation and creek lines to create wildlife corridors. • Practical measures to encourage and prioritise alternative forms of transport— pedestrians, bikes, electric cars, car pooling and public transport.

1.3 Site Description

The property consists of Locations 2807 and 2812 which are 62 ha and 57ha in area respectively and is bounded by Bussell Highway to the west, Davis Road to the south, Mill Road to the North and numerous private adjoining rural lots to the east. The site location is shown within Figure 1.

The site is located in the western most portion of the Chapman Brook catchment and is dominated by vineyard, ex-vineyard and open pasture areas. A 3 hectare patch of remnant vegetation exists near the middle of the eastern boundary of the block and the site contains five ephemeral, waterways running approximately west to east across the property. There is also approximately 2 ha of dam area in the middle of the property, a number of small artificial soaks or dams, two degraded stands of predominantly Marri (Corymbia

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Fauna and Habitat Assessment Witchcliffe Ecovillage, December 2015

calophylla) and an intensively planted area along the western boundary adjoining Shirvington Ave, Witchcliffe. There are a number of isolated or clustered paddock trees.

The site also includes a number of dwellings, associated gardens and farm sheds and associated infrastructure.

1.4 Assessment Objectives and Scope

The assessment was undertaken throughout September, October 2015, with the following objectives: 1. To document the general habitat types present across the site; 2. To compile a list of terrestrial vertebrate species previously recorded in the region; 3. Identify terrestrial vertebrate fauna of conservation significance that potentially occur within the site; and 4. Develop technical advice and recommendations to help guide the development to protect and where possible restore fauna and habitat values across the site

1.5 Landform

The site is a gently undulating mix of generally level uplands between 80 and 90m AHD and five minor tributaries to the Chapman Brook which run approximately from East to West across the site.

The site lies within the Cowaramup and Wilyabrup land systems and is comprised of a variety of soils including the following: • Cowaramup Uplands (COu); • Cowaramup wet flats (Cow); • Cowaramup wet vales (Covw); • Wilyabrup hill slopes (WLh); and • Wilyabrup wet valleys (WLvw).

Soils are a mix of loamy gravels, duplex sandy gravels, semi-wet and wet soils (Department of Agriculture, 2003).

1.6 Hydrology

The five tributaries all run approximately west to east across the block. The majority of these waterways originate within the property and are generally first order streams. The Northern most tributary is also connected to two minor first order streams from properties north of Mill Rd, as such the downstream portion of this waterway is considered a second order stream.

The site contains 2 small dams/ soaks and one large dam in the middle of the site.

1.7 Climate

Located in Western Australia’s south-west, the area experiences a Mediterranean climate with hot dry summers and cool wet winters. Witchcliffe has an average annual rainfall of 1013 mm with 85% of this rain falling between April and October.

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Fauna and Habitat Assessment Witchcliffe Ecovillage, December 2015

1.8 Vegetation

The site vegetation is predominantly cleared and significantly altered towards agricultural production either as grazing land or vineyards. The remaining native vegetation is characterised by: • a distinct 3ha area of remnant vegetation centrally located along the Eastern boundary of the site; • a strong band of remnant native vegetation along the northern waterway; • a band of riparian regrowth along the downstream portion of the southern tributary; • a range of paddock trees predominantly Peppermints (Agonis flexuosa) Marri (Corymbia callophylla) and Karri () • a degraded stand of parkland cleared Marri along the eastern boundary south of the northern tributary • a degraded stand of Marri and Jarrah () and • a mix of riparian species planted as part of the plantation style, predominantly eastern states species planting immediately east of Shirvington Ave, Witchcliffe.

Augusta Margaret River Shire is situated within the South West Botanical Province of WA which is internationally recognised as a biodiversity hotspot. Within this, the site lies in the Boranup System of the Western Botanical subdistrict within the Darling Botanical District. The Western Botanical subdistrict spans from Cape Naturalist to Albany with Witchcliffe falling within the Boranup System. This system is described as Tall Forest of Karri (Eucalyptus diversicolor) on red earths and Forest of Jarrah (Eucalyptus marginata) and Marri (Corymbia calophylla) on the red and yellow podzolic soils. Extensive paperbark (Melaleuca spp.) and sedge swamps occur in the valleys and flood plains. (Beard 1990)

Previous broadscale (1:50,000) vegetation mapping (Mattiske and Havel 1998) has identified the site vegetation as consisting of four vegetation complexes.

Wilyabrup (W1): Tall open forest of Eucalyptus diversicolor-Corymbia calophylla- Allocasuarina decussata-Agonis flexuosa on deeply incised valleys in the hyperhumid zone.

Wilyabrup (Ww1): Tall open forest of Eucalyptus diversicolor (karri) - Agonis flexuosa (WA peppermint) – Callistachys lanceolata (native willow/wonnich) with some Corymbia calophylla (marri) on flats and valleys in the hyperhumid zone.

Cowaramup Uplands (C1): Open to tall forest of Corymbia callophylla (marri) – Eucalyptus marginata (jarrah) – Banksia grandis (bull banksia) on lateritic uplands

Cowaramup Valleys (Cw1): Mixture of open forest to woodland of Eucalyptus diversicolor (karri) - Corymbia callophylla (marri) and woodlands of Eucalyptus marginata (jarrah) – Corymbia callophylla (marri) on slopes and low woodland of Melaleuca preissiana (moonah – Banksia littoralis (Swamp banksia) on depressions.

The Flora and Vegetation Assessment highlighted a range of ten Vegetation units across the site and vegetation condition ranging from very good through to completely degraded.

No Priority or Threatened Ecological Communities (PEC or TEC) were identified on the site as part of the Flora and Vegetation Assessment.

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Fauna and Habitat Assessment Witchcliffe Ecovillage, December 2015

2. METHODOLOGY

2.1 Scope of Work

The assessment represents a Level 1 Assessment as described by the EPA’s Guidance for the Assessment of Environmental Factors, Terrestrial Fauna Surveys for Environmental Impact Assessment in Western Australia (Guidance Statement 56) (EPA 2004). As such it includes: • Desktop study to collate historical knowledge; and • a reconnaissance survey.

This level of survey is considered appropriate under the requirements of Guidance Statement 56, given the anticipated low impact of the proposal (no remnant vegetation will be removed or cleared and that it is recommended that significant regeneration work be undertaken as a result of the proposal).

Limitations in the survey are acknowledged in that it is limited in scope, duration, detail and seasonality. If a detailed survey was undertaken or the site assessed at different seasons throughout the year, utilised invasive trapping methodologies, the fauna recorded for the property could be significantly expanded.

2.2 Desktop Review

The purpose of the desktop review was to gather existing information for the site and information on fauna records in the locality. In this instance this involved the following the following: • DPAW Threatened and Priority Fauna Database (this utilised an approximate 10km buffer surrounding the survey area) • Western Australian Museum (WAM)/ DPAW NatureMap biological database (this utilised an approximate 10km buffer surrounding the survey area) • SEWPAC Protected Matters Search Tool (this utilised an approximate 10km buffer surrounding the survey area) • Birds Australia Database • Cape to Cape Catchments Group’s Database of Community Reports of Western Ringtail Possum sightings or occurrence • Discussions with two long term local landholders. • A review of the site vegetation as classified under the South West Regional Ecological Linkages (SWREL)

These sources were used to compile a list of significant species previously recorded in the area surrounding the site.

2.3 Reconnaissance Survey

The reconnaissance survey was conducted over six days and three nights in August, September and October 2015 and consisted of four components, active searching, opportunistic observations, habitat assessments and an assessment of key habitat trees.

2.3.1 Active Searching

Active searching on site comprised of camera trapping, call playback and spotlighting/ nocturnal search.

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Fauna and Habitat Assessment Witchcliffe Ecovillage, December 2015

The camera trapping utilised one Bushnell HD and one Ltl Acorn PIR (Passive Infra-Red) cameras) over a combined 39 trapnights/ days. The traps were set in the Eastern remnant, Northern waterway and the mixed local and non local plantings east of the Witchcliffe townsite.

The spotlighting/ nocturnal search focused on spotlighting for nocturnally active mammals and recording calls (predominantly amphibians).

Call playback was undertaken along the northern waterway for White bellied

The placement locations of the camera traps is identified on Figure 2.

2.3.2 Opportunistic observations

Observations of scats, tracks, diggings and burrows and other traces of terrestrial vertebrate fauna were made over six days spent on site during September and October.

2.3.3 Habitat assessment

Habitat was assessed in two key remnants. The assessment considered the structural and floristic diversity of the site both vertically and horizontally and considered such factors as the presence and quality of breeding and foraging resources within the site for a range of fauna species .

2.3.4 Isolated Habitat Tree assessment

An assessment of potential habitat trees located outside of the core remnant vegetation was undertaken to identify if any of the isolated trees (not protected as part of the broader stands of remnant vegetation) had significant habitat potential.

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Fauna and Habitat Assessment Witchcliffe Ecovillage, December 2015

3. FAUNA AND HABITAT ASSESSMENT

3.1 Variables influencing the assessment

In accordance with EPA Guidance Statement No 56 the following variables which may influence the assessment are documented in table 1.

Table 1. Variables Associated with the Assessment Variable Details Experience levels and The scientist that undertook the assessment was regarded as resources suitably qualified for the level of assessment undertaken: Drew McKenzie – Ecologist Has over 13 years experience undertaking ecological assessments in both SE Queensland and South West WA including Level 1 assessment. Over 10 years of experience has focused on ecological assessment and management within the Capes region. Scope: sampling A level one survey was undertaken including both desktop methods/ intensity review and site reconnaissance. The level of site reconnaissance probably exceeded the level of work normally undertaken for a Level One assessment of this nature. A specific assessment in relation to Black Cockatoos was not undertaken as part of the scope of work. Sources of Information The Capes region has been the focus of a number of targeted biological surveys. Documented information regarding the site was limited however the assessment was able to utilise a number of relevant databases and local records. Timing, weather, The survey was undertaken during Spring and early Summer season 2015 whilst this period (and the year in general) experienced below average rainfall (Spring 2015 in the south west was considered to be one of the driest Springs on record) it is not expected to have significantly influenced the results and effectiveness of the assessment. Disturbances No recent disturbances such as fire or clearing had recently occurred on or adjacent to the site Access No limitations to access across the whole site were experienced

3.2 Desktop Review The following provides results of the desktop review.

3.2.1 Database Searches

A search of relevant databases provide a list of 34 species of conservation significance previously recorded from surrounding areas including17 threatened species, 8 priority listed species, 7 species under International Agreements and 2 specially protected fauna species. The results of the Naturemap and Birds Australia database review is provided as Appendix 1 and 2 respectively. Table 2 below identifies the significant fauna species

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Fauna and Habitat Assessment Witchcliffe Ecovillage, December 2015

identified from DPAW and SEWPAC database searches as being recorded in the nearby locality.

Table 2. Threatened species highlighted through database searches as recorded from within 10km of the survey site. WA COMMONWEALTH NAME COMMON NAME CONSERVATION LISTING CODE Threatened Species Atrichornis clamosus Noisy Scrub-bird T Vulnerable Bettongia penicillata subsp. Woylie, Brush-tailed Endangered T Ogilbyi Bettong Botaurus poiciloptilus Australasian Bittern T Endangered Calyptorhynchus latirostris Carnaby’s Cockatoo T Endangered Calyptorhynchus banksii Forest Red-tailed Black- Vulnerable T subsp. Naso Cockatoo Calyptorhynchus baudinii Baudin’s Black Cockatoo T Vulnerable Cherax tenuimanus Hairy Marron T Critically Endangered Dasyurus geoffroii Chuditch T Vulnerable Galaxiella munda Western Mud Minnow T Geocrinia alba White-bellied Frog T Endangered Macrotis lagotis Bilby, Dalgyte, Ninu T Vulnerable Nannatherina balstoni Balston’s Pygmy Perch T Vulnerable Phascogale tapoatafa ssp. Brush-tailed Phascogale, T (WAM M434) Wambenger Potorous gilbertii Gilbert’s Potoroo T Critically Endangered Potorous platyops Broad-faced Potoroo X Extinct Pseudocheirus occidentalis Western Ringtail Possum T Vulnerable Setonix brachyurus Quokka T Vulnerable Priority Species Geotria australis Pouched Lamprey P1 Hydromys chrysogaster Water-rat P4 Isoodon obesulus subsp. Quenda, Southern Brown P5 Fusciventer Bandicoot Ixobrychus flavicollis Black Bittern (southwest P1 australis pop) Kawaniphila pachomai (cricket) P1 Macropus eugenii derbianus Tammar Wallaby P5 Macropus irma Western Brush Wallaby P4 Tyto novaehollandiae subsp. Masked Owl (southern P3 Novaehollandiae subsp) International Agreement Actitis hypoleucos Common Sandpiper IA IA Ardea alba Great Egret, White Egret IA IA Ardea ibis Cattle Egret IA IA Eastern Reef Egret, Egretta sacra IA IA Eastern Reef Heron Limosa laponnica Bar-tailed Godwit IA IA Motacilla cinerea Grey Wagtail IA IA Merops ornatus Rainbow Bee-eater IA IA Specially Protected Fauna Falco eregrines subsp. Australian Peregrine S Macropus Falcon Morelia spilota imbricata Carpet Python S *It should be noted that some of these records are historical in nature.

3.2.2 Connectivity

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Fauna and Habitat Assessment Witchcliffe Ecovillage, December 2015

It is noted that the remnant upland vegetation is directly connected to a large patch of high quality private remnant vegetation to the east. It is also identified that the revegetation of the southern and central waterways provide significant opportunity for increasing connectivity between the remnant vegetation west of the site forming part of the Witchcliffe Reserve to the private remnant vegetation to the east of the site.

The South West Regional Ecological Linkages project classified the connectivity value of vegetation throughout the south west. Under the mapping produced through this project, an axis line was identified as running east – west through the central portion of the site. Subsequently, the remnant vegetation through the site has also been identified as 1a – with an edge touching or <100m from a linkage (the highest level of proximity to an axis line).

3.2.3 Other Local Sources

A review of the results of a Cape to Cape Catchment Group community survey undertaken in 2009 seeking reports of Western Ringtail Possums highlighted two reports from Witchcliffe townsite including one from Shirvington Avenue (immediately West of the central portion of the site.

Discussions were held with landholders from Lot 2813 Mill Rd (immediately north of the Northern waterway and Lot 2810 Rowe Rd (immediately east of the eastern remnant). These conversations confirmed recent sightings of Brush tailed Phascogale on Lot 2813 and recent sightings of Western Ringtail Possums and Brush tailed Phascogale on Lot 2810.

3.3 Results of the Reconnaissance Survey A total of 35 vertebrate fauna were recorded during the reconnaissance survey. This included six , twenty four bird species, and five mammal species.

The spotlighting undertaken over three nights provided the following observations or confirmations of value: • A range of common amphibians using all five waterways; • Brushtail possums confirmed to be utilising the eastern remnant; • Western Ringtail Possums observed immediately west of the site on the Shirvington Ave road verge; and • Confirmed Western Grey Kangaroo usage of the broader Lot 2812.

The locations of relevant sightings are detailed in Figure 3.

Camera trapping provided the following results: • Brush tailed possum recorded within the eastern remnant; • Red fox recorded within the eastern remnant; • Confirmed frequent records of Western Grey Kangaroo within the Eastern Remnant; Call playback for White Bellied Frog at 10 locations along the well vegetated northern creekline on the evening of November 8 did not result in any response.

Table 3 below summarises the fauna observations made during the course of the reconnaissance survey.

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Fauna and Habitat Assessment Witchcliffe Ecovillage, December 2015

Table 3: Opportunistic vertebrate fauna records. Common Name Scientific Name Status Nature of the record Amphibia Quacking Frog Crinea georgiana C Glauert’s Froglet Crinea glauerti C Squelching Froglet Crinea insignifera C Banjo Frog Limnodynastes dorsalis C, O Motorbike Frog Litoria adelaidensis C Slender Tree Frog Litoria moorei C Aves Quail spp Coturnix spp O Nankeen Kestrel Falco cenchroides O Black Shouldered Kite Elanus axillaris O Red Tailed Black Cockatoo Calyptorhynchus banksii T, V O Baudins Black Cockatoo Calyptorhynchus baudinii T, V O Western Rosella Platycercus icterotis O Australian Ringneck Barnadius zonarius O Red-capped Parrot Purpureicephalus spurius O Elegant Parrot Neophema elegans O Laughing Kookaburra Dacelo novaeguineae Int. O Red-winged Fairy Wren Malurus elegans O Splendid Fairy Wren Malurus splendens O Striated Pardalote Pardalotus striatus O White –browed Scrubwren Sericornis frontalis O Western Gerygone Gerygone fusca O Red Wattlebird Anthochaera carunculata O New Holland Honeyeater Phylidonyris novaehollandiae O Golden Whistler Pachycephala pectoralis O Grey Fantail Rhipidura fuliginosa O Grey Butcherbird Cracticus torquatus O Australian Magpie Gymnorhina tibicen O Australian Raven Corvus coronoides O Tree Martin Hirundo nigricans O Silvereye Zosterops lateralis C Mammals Western Grey Kangaroo Macropus fuliginosus O, S Western Ringtail Possum Pseudocheirus occidentalis T, V O Common Brushtail Possum Trichosurus vulpecula O, S Quenda/ Southern Brown Isoodon obesulus P5 T Bandicoot Red Fox Vulpes vulpes Int. O Key to Record: O: Observed S:Scat T: Tracks/rmaching/diggings C:Call Status key: Int: Introduced, P5: Priority 5 WA WC Act, T: Threatened WA WC Act, V: Vulnerable EPBC Act

Opportunistic observations on site yielded the following records of significance: • Quenda diggings present within the Northern waterway; • Frequent observation of Baudin’s Black Cockatoo either crossing the site, feeding seasonally on Common Storksbill (Erodium cicutarium) within the central pasture

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Fauna and Habitat Assessment Witchcliffe Ecovillage, December 2015

area of the site. These sightings range in flock size from 4 through to approximately 70 individuals; • Breeding pair of Black Shouldered kites within the completely degraded central remnant

3. 4 Habitat Assessment

The details of the habitat assessment are provided in Appendix 4. The assessments identified the habitat potential within the Northern Waterway as very good and within the eastern remnant as good.

3.5 Isolated Habitat Tree Assessment

The results of this assessment are provided in Appendix 5 and the locations of the trees shown on figure 4.

The key findings of this assessment are as follows: • Location 2812 contains no isolated hollow bearing trees– the paddock or cluster trees are predominantly younger Marri, Peppy or introduced species such as Pinus spp or younger Blue Gum; • Location 2807 contains two very large (dbh>150cm) hollow bearing Marri on the eastern boundary just south of the central waterway. • Location 2807 contains two very large (dbh>150cm) isolated remnant paddock trees. Both trees (one being long dead) show significant signs of rot and decay including large cracks in the main stem without showing obvious signs of true hollows. • It is noted that a full significant tree assessment for potential black cockatoo habitat as defined under the SEWPAC guidelines was not undertaken as part of this project. This is discussed in more detail in section 4.

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Fauna and Habitat Assessment Witchcliffe Ecovillage, December 2015

4. DISCUSSION

4.1 Significant Species

Of the threatened or priority species identified through the database search, the following were either directly observed on site, evidence of the species were observed on site or are predicted as having potential to regularly utilise the site: • Pseudocheirus occidentalis (Western Ringtail Possum); • Isoodon obesulus subsp. Fusciventer (Quenda) • Calyptorhynchus baudinii (Baudin’s Cockatoo); • Calyptorhynchus banksii subsp. Naso (Forest Red-tailed Black-Cockatoo); • Calyptorhynchus latirostris (Carnaby’s Cockatoo); • Phascogale tapoatafa ssp. (WAM M434) (Brush-tailed Phascogale); • Macropus irma (Western brush wallaby); • Tyto novaehollandiae subsp. Novaehollandiae (Masked Owl)

Western Ringtail Possum

No sightings or evidence of Western Ringtail Possums were recorded during the site work despite the knowledge that they occur both immediately east and west of the site. Given this, there remains significant potential for expanding the local population of this species through inclusion of specific supporting species within revegetation and landscaping and appropriate management of domestic dogs, cats and feral .

Quenda

Evidence of this species was recorded in the northern most waterway. It is very possible that it is more widespread particularly utilising the dense understorey along the southern tributary. It potentially utilises the eastern remnant also although the reduced cover coupled with confirmed fox presence reduces the value of this habitat. There remains significant potential for expanding the local population of this species through high quality revegetation within the foreshore and riparian zones of the site and appropriate management of domestic dogs, cats and feral animals within the development.

Brushtailed Phascogale

No sightings or evidence of Brushtailed Phascogale were recorded during the site work despite the knowledge that they occur both immediately east and north of the site. Given this, there remains significant potential for expanding the local population of this species through expansion and improvement in condition and habitat value of the remnant vegetation through revegetation and bush generation efforts .Appropriate management of feral animals and domestic dogs and cats would also be important

Black Cockatoos

Flocks of Baudins Black Cockatoos were regularly observed on site – primarily feeding on the Storksbill (Erodium cicutarium) growing within the pasture areas of the site. This feeding is probably strongly seasonal and largely a result from the temporary lack of stock on the pastured portions of the site. Feeding signs of Forest Redtailed black cockatoo

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Fauna and Habitat Assessment Witchcliffe Ecovillage, December 2015

were observed within the Eastern Remnant. The site is also likely utilised from time to time by Carnaby’s Black Cockatoo. No nesting sites were observed during the course of the site work. No roosting sites were observed during the course of the field work. The majority of the Eastern remnant and the northern waterway are considered quality foraging habitat. Whilst a detailed analysis of each tree within the Eastern remnant and northern waterway has not been undertaken both contain many trees of suitable species greater than 500mm dbh and as such both are considered potential “breeding habitat” under the SEWPAC guidelines. Notably the Northern and central remnant also contain Marri (and jarrah in the case of the central remnant) greater than 500mm and although are limited in size and very degraded are considered ‘breeding habitat’ under the guidelines. Notably a number of the isolated paddock trees also meet this criteria as ‘breeding habitat’.

The guidelines recommend different referral responses depending on the level of risk as detailed in Table 4 below. Table 4 details how the site matches with each trigger.

Table 4. Consideration of the SEWPAC risk ratings referral recommendations Trigger Occurrence on the site High risk of significant impact: referral recommended Clearing of any known nesting tree No observed or recorded on site – no referral Clearing of any part of a vegetation Potential breeding habitat present community known to contain breeding across the site – the extent of habitat impact depends on the final layout of the structure plan. No clearing will occur to any known breeding habitat - no referral Clearing of more than 1 ha of quality Greater than 1ha of quality foraging habitat foraging habitat present on site but it is to be protected and enhanced by the development - no referral Clearing or degradation (including pruning No roosting sites have been the top canopy) of a known night roosting recorded or observed on site - no site. referral Creating a gap of greater than 4km between The site contains quality foraging patched of black cockatoo habitat (breeding, habitat to the east, west and foraging or roosting) south. Any action on the site will not create a 4km gap – no referral. Uncertainty: referral recommended or contact the department Degradation (such as altered hydrology or >1ha of foraging habitat present fire regimes) of more than 1ha of foraging on site. Degradation will not habitat. Significance will depend on the occur to 1ha of this habitat – no level and extent of degradation and the referral quality of the habitat Clearing or disturbance in areas surrounding Very minimal clearing is black cockatoo breeding, foraging or night proposed as part of the roosting habitat that has the potential to development. A strict process degrade habitat through introduction of for the way clearing is

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Fauna and Habitat Assessment Witchcliffe Ecovillage, December 2015

invasive species, edge effects, hydrological undertaken is detailed within this changes, increased human visitation or fire document – no referral. Actions that do not directly affect the listed The management species but that have the potential for recommendations detail the indirect impacts such as increasing protection and enhancement of competitors for nest hollows. the habitat present on site including a detailed feral and domestic animal management plan - no referral Actions with the potential to introduce It is suspected that Phytophthora known plant diseases such as Phytophthora cinamonii is already present spp. to an area where the pathogen was not within large parts of the eastern previously known remnant and the northern waterway. A hygiene management is to be prepared as part of the subsequent stages of the development to ensure Phytophthora dieback and other diseases are managed appropriately – no referral. Low risk of significant impacts: referral may not be required Actions that do not affect black cockatoo The action will not directly affect habitat or individuals individuals or confirmed breeding habitat – no referral. Actions whose impacts occur outside the The action is within the modelled modelled distribution of the three black distribution of Calyptorhynchus cockatoos banksii naso and within the modelled breeding range and known breeding areas for Calyptorhynchus litorostris and Calyptorhynchus baudinii respectively.

Western Brush Wallaby

Western Brush Wallaby are frequently sighted in or around large unfragmented blocks of remnant vegetation in the Capes region. However, given the largely fragmented landscape around Witchcliffe, the deer fencing around Location 2807 and the limited and somewhat isolated native vegetation on Location 2812, it is considered very unlikely that the site is significant for this species.

Masked Owl

Whilst not recorded during the site work, this species has the potential to occasionally utilise parts of the site from time. Improved habitat quality and extent through revegetation and bush regeneration efforts should, in time, improve the habitat value for this species.

Note: White Bellied Frog

This critically endangered species has been recorded within a few kilometres of the site. It prefers undisturbed broad U-shaped drainage depressions with swampy floors within one

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Fauna and Habitat Assessment Witchcliffe Ecovillage, December 2015

of three Tille and Lantzke land units – Wilyabrup Wet Valleys, Glenarty Wet Valleys and Treeton Valleys. Whilst the site contains a portion of the Wilyabrup Wet valleys land unit within Location 2807 these are highly modified and disturbed on the site. Given this and the fact that it was not detected calling or responding to call playback on the northern waterway it is considered highly unlikely that this species is present within the site.

4.2 Significant Habitat Features

The two key existing habitat areas across the site are the northern waterway and the eastern remnant. These represent the key areas for protection and enhancement and expansion where possible.

Significant potential exists to recreate both habitat and improve connectivity through supporting revegetation and regeneration of the waterways and remnant vegetation. The Environmental Corridor and Stream Zone Management Plan details the approach to this regeneration and revegetation.

A range of isolated paddock trees and small degraded remnants exist across the site these are of lower priority, however, these should be retained where possible within the structure plan. Many of them represent potential Black Cockatoo breeding habitat under the SEWPAC guidelines.

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Fauna and Habitat Assessment Witchcliffe Ecovillage, December 2015

5. CONCLUSIONS AND RECOMMENDATIONS

5.1 Conclusions

The site contains a number of fauna and habitat values worthy of protection and enhancement including: • Significant habitat within the eastern remnant and northern waterway; • A total of 35 vertebrate fauna were recorded during the reconnaissance survey. This included six amphibian, twenty four bird species, and five mammal species. • A total of 34 species of conservation significance previously recorded from surrounding areas including 17 threatened species, 8 priority listed species, 7 species under International Agreements and 2 specially protected fauna species. • Three species of conservation significance were recorded during the survey on site including Forest red-tailed black cockatoo, Baudin’s black cockatoo and Southern brown Bandicoot. • A fourth species of conservation significance - Western Ringtail Possum was recorded approximately 10m west of the site boundary. • The site contains significant areas of foraging and breeding habitat for the three black cockatoo species as defined by the SEWPAC guidelines. • Significant potential exists for important habitat restoration along all of the waterways; • Potential for the site to provide important habitat for a number of threatened and priority species given appropriate feral animal and domestic animal management coupled with bush regeneration and revegetation across the remnant areas and waterways. • Significant potential exists for habitat restoration and revegetation works to provide improved East – West connectivity across the site

5.2 Recommendations

Management recommendations to protect and enhance the identified fauna and habitat values of the property include: 1. Ensure the Structure Plan layout avoids any impact or clearing of remnant vegetation throughout the site; with particular reference to Cw1 and Ww1 vegetation complexes. 2. Undertake strategic, effective bush regeneration recommendations for the remnant vegetation and waterways as detailed within the Environmental Corridor and Stream Zone Management Plan 3. Undertake a significant revegetation program within the Stream Protection Zones. The Environmental Corridor and Stream Zone Management Plan provides details to guide this rehabilitation/ revegetation and ensure that it is undertaken in accordance with current best practice. 4. Inclusion of specific feed species and habitat features for Western Ringtail Possums and Black Cockatoos into revegetation plantings and regeneration activities. 5. Develop a feral animal and domestic animal management plan to ensure that the habitat values within the site are maximised under the development and that the introduction of domestic animals to the site as part of the development does not undermine the current and potential fauna habitat. This plan will need to address foxes, feral cats and introduced species that have the potential to compete with black cockatoos for nest sites such as corellas, pink and grey galahs and feral European bees and also the management of domestic and productive species such as cats, dogs and bee hives.

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Fauna and Habitat Assessment Witchcliffe Ecovillage, December 2015

6. Monitor and where necessary control the other environmental weeds recorded onsite. This will be especially necessary following fire and once construction begins and new soil and plant matter is introduced to the site. 7. Conduct additional long term fauna surveys and monitoring throughout alternative times of the year in order to continue to develop a better understanding of the site fauna. 8. Develop a hygiene management plan to address dieback and Marri Canker evident through much of the remnant vegetation on site and as such threatens to impact on the structural and floristic make up of habitat. 9. Any vegetation clearing works or disturbance of hollow bearing or habitat trees should be undertaken in accordance to the recommendations detailed in Appendix 6. 10. Retention of large hollow bearing or habitat trees wherever possible. 11. Ensure that onsite water management avoids significant impacts on downstream hydrology and associated vegetation communities. 12. Where areas of ‘breeding habitat’ are proposed for clearing within the Structure plan then the proponent will need to consider referral to the SEWPAC based upon an assessment of the SEWPAC guidelines. 13. Schedule clearing activities outside of breeding periods for conservation significant fauna in order to reduce potential disturbance or stress to breeding animals. 14. Undertake a significant tree assessment to establish the nature and extent of black cockatoo ‘breeding habitat’ as defined by the SEWPAC guidelines across the site.

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Fauna and Habitat Assessment Witchcliffe Ecovillage, December 2015

6. REFERENCES

Beard, JS (1981) Vegetation Survey of Western Australia Vegetation series explanatory notes. UWA Press, Perth.

Birds Australia (2015) Atlas. Database search undertaken October 2015.

Department of Agriculture and Food Western Australia (DAFWA) (2004)

Department of Parks and Wildlife (2014) Conservation Codes for Western Australian Flora and Fauna, Department of Parks and Wildlife, Western Australia.

Department of Environment and Conservation (DEC) (2007) Definitions, categories and criteria for threatened and priority ecological communities.

Department of Sustainability, Environment, Water, Population and Communities (SEWPAC) (2015) Protected Matters Search Tool: Accessed October 2015.

Department of Sustainability, Environment, Water, Population and Communities (SEWPAC) (2012) EPBC Act 1999 referral guidelines for three threatened black cockatoo species: Carnaby’s cockatoo (endangered), Calyptorhyncus latirostris, Baudins cockatoo (vulnerable) Calyptorhyncus baundinii, Forest redtailed black cockatoo (vulnerable) Calyptorhynchus banksii naso

Environmental Protection Agency (2004) Guidance for the Assessment of Environmental Factors. Terrestrial Fauna Surveys for Environmental Impact Assessment in Western Australia. Guidance Statement 56, Environmental Protection Authority, Perth, Western Australia.

Environmental Protection Agency (2002) Terrestrial Biological Surveys as an element of Biodiversity Protection Position Statement no. 3, Environmental Protection Authority, Perth, Western Australia

Hoskin, C, Grigg, G, Stewart, D and MacDonald, S (2015) of Australia: An electronic field guide to the frogs of Australia.

Mattiske, EM and Havel JJ (1998) Vegetation mapping in the South West of Western Australia and Regional Forest Agreement vegetation complexes. Department of Conservation and Land Management, Perth.

Molloy, S., O’Connor, T., Wood, J. and Wallrodt, S. (2007), Local Government Biodiversity Planning Guidelines: Addendum to the South West Biodiversity Project Area, Western Australian Local Government Association, West Perth.

Molloy, S., Wood, J., Hall, S., Wallrodt, S and Whisson, G. (2009). South West Regional Ecological Linkages Technical Report. Western Australian Local Government Association (WALGA) and the Department of Environment and Conservation (DEC), West Perth.

Morcombe, M and Stewart, D (2015) eGuide to Australian Birds

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Fauna and Habitat Assessment Witchcliffe Ecovillage, December 2015

Naturemap (2015) Department of Environment and Conservation and Western Australian Museum database Accessed October 2015.

Simpson, K and Day, N (2010) Field Guide to the Birds of Australia (8th Edition) Viking Press.

Strahan, R (1995) The Mammals of Australia, Strahan ed, Australian Museum/ Reed Books

Tille, P J, and Lantzke, N C. (1990), Busselton, Margaret River, Augusta: land capability study. Department of Agriculture and Food, Western Australia. Report 5.

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Fauna and Habitat Assessment Witchcliffe Ecovillage, December 2015

APPENDIX 1: RESULTS OF NATURE MAP DATABASE SEARCH

Cons. Species Name Naturalised Code Acanthaluteres vittiger Acanthistius pardalotus Acanthiza apicalis (Broad-tailed Thornbill Inland Thornbill Acanthiza chrysorrhoa (Yellow-rumped Thornbill) Acanthiza inornata (Western Thornbill) Acanthorhynchus superciliosus (Western Spinebill) Accipiter cirrocephalus subsp. cirrocephalus (Collared Sparrowhawk) Accipiter fasciatus (Brown Goshawk) Acritoscincus trilineatus (Western Three-lined Skink) Actitis hypoleucos (Common Sandpiper) IA Aegotheles cristatus subsp. cristatus (Australian Owlet-nightjar) Afurcagobius suppositus Anas gracilis (Grey Teal) Anas platyrhynchos (Mallard) Anas superciliosa (Pacific Black Duck) Anthochaera carunculata (Red Wattlebird) Anthochaera lunulata (Western Little Wattlebird) Aprasia pulchella (Granite Worm-lizard) Aquila audax (Wedge-tailed Eagle) Aquila morphnoides subsp. morphnoides (Little Eagle) Aracana aurita Araneus cyphoxis Araneus eburneiventris Argiope trifasciata Arkys walckenaeri Arripis georgiana Arripis truttacea Artamus cinereus (Black-faced Woodswallow) Artamus cyanopterus (Dusky Woodswallow) Artoria cingulipes Artoria flavimana Atherinosoma wallacei Atrichornis clamosus (Noisy Scrub-bird) T Austroassiminea letha (Cape Leeuwin Freshwater Snail) T Baiami tegenarioides Brush-tailed Bettongia penicillata subsp. ogilbyi (Woylie Bettong Biziura lobata (Musk Duck) Burhinus grallarius (Bush Stone-curlew) Cacatua galerita (Sulphur-crested Cockatoo) Cacatua pastinator subsp. butleri (Butler's Corella) Cacomantis flabelliformis (Fan-tailed Cuckoo) Cacomantis flabelliformis subsp. flabelliformis (Fan-tailed Cuckoo)

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Fauna and Habitat Assessment Witchcliffe Ecovillage, December 2015

Cons. Species Name Naturalised Code Cacomantis pallidus (Pallid Cuckoo) Calidris ruficollis (Red-necked Stint) IA Calyptorhynchus banksii (Red-tailed Black-Cockatoo) Calyptorhynchus banksii subsp. naso (Forest Red-tailed Black-Cockatoo) T Baudin's Calyptorhynchus baudinii (Baudin's Cockatoo (long-billed black-cockatoo) Cockatoo Carnaby's Calyptorhynchus latirostris (Carnaby's Cockatoo (short-billed black-cockatoo) Cockatoo Canis lupus subsp. dingo (Dingo) Capreolus capreolus Caretta caretta (Loggerhead Turtle) T Cercartetus concinnus (Western Pygmy-possum) Cercophonius granulosus Cercophonius sulcatus Chalinolobus gouldii (Gould's Wattled Bat) Chalinolobus morio (Chocolate Wattled Bat) Charadrius rubricollis (Hooded Plover) P4 Chenonetta jubata (Australian Wood Duck) Wood Duck Cherax cainii (Marron) Cherax tenuimanus (Margaret River Marron Hairy Marron Christinus marmoratus (Marbled Gecko) Chrysococcyx lucidus subsp. plagosus (Shining Bronze Cuckoo) Circus approximans (Swamp Harrier) Climacteris rufa (Rufous Treecreeper) Colluricincla harmonica (Grey Shrike-thrush) Conicochernes crassus Coracina novaehollandiae (Black-faced Cuckoo-shrike) Coris auricularis Cormocephalus aurantiipes Cormocephalus hartmeyeri Corvus coronoides subsp. perplexus (Australian Raven) Cracticus tibicen (Australian Magpie) Cracticus torquatus (Grey Butcherbird) Crinia georgiana (Quacking Frog) Crinia glauerti (Clicking Frog) Crinia pseudinsignifera (Bleating Froglet) Cristiceps australis Cryptoblepharus buchananii Ctenotus catenifer Ctenotus impar Ctenotus labillardieri Cyclosa trilobata Dacelo novaeguineae (Laughing Kookaburra) Y Dactylophora nigricans Daphoenositta chrysoptera (Varied Sittella)

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Fauna and Habitat Assessment Witchcliffe Ecovillage, December 2015

Cons. Species Name Naturalised Code Dasyurus geoffroii (Chuditch Western Quoll Dromaius novaehollandiae (Emu) Echiopsis curta (Bardick) Edelia vittata Egernia kingii (King's Skink) Egernia napoleonis Elapognathus coronatus (Crowned Snake) Eopsaltria australis subsp. griseogularis (Western Yellow Robin) Eopsaltria georgiana (White-breasted Robin) Equus caballus (Horse) Y Eriophora biapicata Falco berigora subsp. berigora (Brown Falcon) Falco cenchroides (Australian Kestrel) Falco peregrinus (Peregrine Falcon) S Fulica atra (Eurasian Coot) Galaxias occidentalis (Western Minnow) Galaxiella munda (Western Mud Minnow) T Geocrinia alba (White-bellied Frog) T Geocrinia leai (Ticking Frog) Geotria australis (Pouched Lamprey) P1 Gerygone fusca (Western Gerygone) Glossopsitta porphyrocephala (Purple-crowned Lorikeet) Grallina cyanoleuca (Magpie-lark) Haematopus fuliginosus (Sooty Oystercatcher) Haematopus longirostris (Pied Oystercatcher) Haliastur sphenurus (Whistling Kite) Halichoeres brownfieldi Heleioporus eyrei (Moaning Frog) Heleioporus inornatus (Whooping Frog) Hemiergis gracilipes Hemiergis peronii subsp. tridactyla Henicops dentatus Heterodontus portusjacksoni Hirundo neoxena (Welcome Swallow) Hydromys chrysogaster (Water-rat) P4 Southern Brown Isoodon obesulus subsp. fusciventer (Quenda Bandicoot Isopeda leishmanni Ixobrychus flavicollis subsp. australis (Australian Black Bittern) P1 Ixodes australiensis Kawaniphila pachomai (cricket) P1 Lagynochthonius australicus Lamponella ainslie Larus novaehollandiae subsp. novaehollandiae (Silver Gull) Larus pacificus (Pacific Gull)

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Fauna and Habitat Assessment Witchcliffe Ecovillage, December 2015

Cons. Species Name Naturalised Code Latrodectus hasseltii Lerista distinguenda Lerista elegans Lerista microtis subsp. microtis Lialis burtonis Lichmera indistincta (Brown Honeyeater) Limnodynastes dorsalis (Western Banjo Frog) Lissolepis luctuosa (Western Swamp Skink) Litoria adelaidensis (Slender Tree Frog) Litoria moorei (Motorbike Frog) Macropus eugenii subsp. derbianus (Tammar Wallaby (WA subsp)) P5 Macropus fuliginosus (Western Grey Kangaroo) Macropus irma (Western Brush Wallaby) P4 Macrotis lagotis (Bilby Dalgyte Malurus elegans (Red-winged Fairy-wren) Malurus splendens (Splendid Fairy-wren) Melithreptus brevirostris (Brown-headed Honeyeater) Melithreptus chloropsis (Western White-naped Honeyeater) Menetia greyii Merops ornatus (Rainbow Bee-eater) IA Metacrinia nichollsi (Forest Toadlet) Meuschenia flavolineata Meuschenia galii Meuschenia hippocrepis Mituliodon tarantulinus Morelia spilota subsp. imbricata (Carpet Python) S Morethia lineoocellata Morethia obscura Myrmecobius fasciatus (Numbat Walpurti Naucrates ductor Neophema elegans (Elegant Parrot) Neophema petrophila (Rock Parrot) Ninox novaeseelandiae subsp. boobook (Boobook Owl) Notechis scutatus (Tiger Snake) Nunciella aspera Nyctophilus geoffroyi (Lesser Long-eared Bat) Ocyphaps lophotes (Crested Pigeon) Pachycephala pectoralis (Golden Whistler) Pachycephala pectoralis subsp. fuliginosa (Golden Whistler) Pachycephala rufiventris (Rufous Whistler) Pandion haliaetus subsp. cristatus (Osprey) Parasuta gouldii Pardalotus punctatus (Spotted Pardalote) Pardalotus striatus (Striated Pardalote)

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Fauna and Habitat Assessment Witchcliffe Ecovillage, December 2015

Cons. Species Name Naturalised Code Pelsartia humeralis Phalacrocorax sulcirostris (Little Black Cormorant) Phalacrocorax varius (Pied Cormorant) Phaps chalcoptera (Common Bronzewing) Phaps elegans (Brush Bronzewing) Phascogale tapoatafa subsp. tapoatafa (Southern Brush-tailed Phascogale) Wambenger Phylidonyris novaehollandiae (New Holland Honeyeater) Pictilabrus laticlavius Platycercus icterotis subsp. icterotis (Western Rosella) Platycercus zonarius subsp. semitorquatus (Twenty-eight Parrot) Podargus strigoides (Tawny Frogmouth) Porphyrio porphyrio (Purple Swamphen) Porzana tabuensis (Spotless Crake) Potorous gilbertii (Gilbert's Potoroo) T Potorous platyops (Broad-faced Potoroo) X Pseudocheirus occidentalis (Western Ringtail Possum) T Pseudogobius olorum Pseudonaja affinis subsp. affinis (Dugite) Pseudotyrannochthonius giganteus Pterygotrigla polyommata Puffinus assimilis subsp. assimilis (Little Shearwater) Pygopus lepidopodus (Common Scaly Foot) Rattus fuscipes (Western Bush Rat) Rattus rattus (Black Rat) Y Raveniella peckorum Rhinoplocephalus bicolor (Square-nosed Snake) Rhipidura fuliginosa subsp. preissi (Grey Fantail) Rhipidura leucophrys (Willie Wagtail) Schuettea woodwardi Scobinichthys granulatus Sericornis frontalis subsp. maculatus (White-browed Scrubwren) Setonix brachyurus (Quokka) T Siphonognathus beddomei Siphonotus flavomarginatus Smicrornis brevirostris (Weebill) Sminthopsis dolichura (Little long-tailed Dunnart) Sminthopsis gilberti (Gilbert's Dunnart) Stagonopleura oculata (Red-eared Firetail) Steatoda grossa Sterna bergii (Crested Tern) Stipiturus malachurus (Southern Emu-wren) Stipiturus malachurus subsp. westernensis (Southern Emu-wren) Storena formosa Strepera versicolor (Grey Currawong)

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Fauna and Habitat Assessment Witchcliffe Ecovillage, December 2015

Cons. Species Name Naturalised Code Black-throated Tachybaptus novaehollandiae (Australasian Grebe Grebe Tadorna tadornoides (Australian Shelduck Mountain Duck Tamopsis perthensis Tasmanicosa leuckartii Todiramphus sanctus (Sacred Kingfisher) Trichosternus relictus (beetle) P1 Trichosurus vulpecula subsp. vulpecula (Common Brushtail Possum) Tyto novaehollandiae subsp. novaehollandiae (Masked Owl (southern subsp)) P3 Varanus rosenbergi (Heath Monitor) Venator immansueta Vespadelus regulus (Southern Forest Bat) Zosterops lateralis (Grey-breasted White-eye Silvereye

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Fauna and Habitat Assessment Witchcliffe Ecovillage, December 2015

APPENDIX 2: RESULTS OF BIRDS AUSTRALIA DATABASE SEARCH

Common Name Species Name Emu Dromaius novaehollandiae Musk Duck Biziura lobata Australian Shelduck Tadorna tadornoides Australian Wood Duck Chenonetta jubata Grey Teal Anas gracilis Northern Mallard Anas platyrhynchos Pacific Black Duck Anas superciliosa Australasian Grebe Tachybaptus novaehollandiae Common Bronzewing Phaps chalcoptera Brush Bronzewing Phaps elegans Crested Pigeon Ocyphaps lophotes Tawny Frogmouth Podargus strigoides Little Pied Cormorant Microcarbo melanoleucos Little Black Cormorant Phalacrocorax sulcirostris Black Bittern Ixobrychus flavicollis Eastern Great Egret Ardea modesta White-faced Heron Egretta novaehollandiae Nankeen Night-Heron Nycticorax caledonicus Australian White Ibis Threskiornis molucca Straw-necked Ibis Threskiornis spinicollis Black-shouldered Kite Elanus axillaris Square-tailed Kite Lophoictinia isura Brown Goshawk Accipiter fasciatus Collared Sparrowhawk Accipiter cirrocephalus Wedge-tailed Eagle Aquila audax Little Eagle Hieraaetus morphnoides Nankeen Kestrel Falco cenchroides Brown Falcon Falco berigora Peregrine Falcon Falco peregrinus Purple Swamphen Porphyrio porphyrio Eurasian Coot Fulica atra Black-fronted Dotterel Elseyornis melanops Common Sandpiper Actitis hypoleucos Painted Button-quail Turnix varius Red-tailed Black-Cockatoo Calyptorhynchus banksii Carnaby’s Black-Cockatoo Calyptorhynchus latirostris Baudin’s Black-Cockatoo Calyptorhynchus baudinii Galah Eolophus roseicapillus Sulphur-crested Cockatoo Cacatua galerita Purple-crowned Lorikeet Glossopsitta porphyrocephala Western Rosella Platycercus icterotis Australian Ringneck Barnardius zonarius

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Fauna and Habitat Assessment Witchcliffe Ecovillage, December 2015

Common Name Species Name Red-capped Parrot Purpureicephalus spurius Elegant Parrot Neophema elegans Horsfield's Bronze-Cuckoo Chalcites basalis Shining Bronze-Cuckoo Chalcites lucidus Pallid Cuckoo Cacomantis pallidus Fan-tailed Cuckoo Cacomantis flabelliformis Southern Boobook Ninox novaeseelandiae Eastern Barn Owl Tyto javanica Laughing Kookaburra Dacelo novaeguineae Sacred Kingfisher Todiramphus sanctus Rainbow Bee-eater Merops ornatus Rufous Treecreeper Climacteris rufa Splendid Fairy-wren Malurus splendens Red-winged Fairy-wren Malurus elegans Southern Emu-wren Stipiturus malachurus White-browed Scrubwren Sericornis frontalis Weebill Smicrornis brevirostris Western Gerygone Gerygone fusca Yellow-rumped Thornbill Acanthiza chrysorrhoa Western Thornbill Acanthiza inornata Inland Thornbill Acanthiza apicalis Spotted Pardalote Pardalotus punctatus Striated Pardalote Pardalotus striatus Western Spinebill Acanthorhynchus superciliosus Singing Honeyeater Lichenostomus virescens Western Wattlebird Anthochaera lunulata Red Wattlebird Anthochaera carunculata Brown Honeyeater Lichmera indistincta New Holland Honeyeater Phylidonyris novaehollandiae Brown-headed Honeyeater Melithreptus brevirostris White-naped Honeyeater Melithreptus lunatus Varied Sittella Daphoenositta chrysoptera Black-faced Cuckoo-shrike Coracina novaehollandiae Golden Whistler Pachycephala pectoralis Rufous Whistler Pachycephala rufiventris Grey Shrike-thrush Colluricincla harmonica Black-faced Woodswallow Artamus cinereus Dusky Woodswallow Artamus cyanopterus Dusky Woodswallow Artamus cyanopterus Grey Butcherbird Cracticus torquatus Australian Magpie Cracticus tibicen Grey Currawong Strepera versicolor Grey Fantail Rhipidura albiscapa Willie Wagtail Rhipidura leucophrys Australian Raven Corvus coronoides

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Fauna and Habitat Assessment Witchcliffe Ecovillage, December 2015

Common Name Species Name Magpie-lark Grallina cyanoleuca Scarlet Robin Petroica boodang Western Yellow Robin Eopsaltria griseogularis White-breasted Robin Eopsaltria georgiana Silvereye Zosterops lateralis Welcome Swallow Hirundo neoxena Tree Martin Petrochelidon nigricans Red-eared Firetail Stagonopleura oculata Australasian Pipit Anthus novaeseelandiae

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Fauna and Habitat Assessment Witchcliffe Ecovillage, December 2015

APPENDIX 3: OPPORTUNISTIC SIGHTINGS OF MAMMAL AND AMPHIBIANS

Feature Name Lat, Long Description Date of Record Opportunistic 115.1067, -34.0249 Brushtail Possum 10 Oct 2015 Sighting 1 Opportunistic 115.1058, -34.0255 Banjo Frog 10 Oct 2015 Sighting 2 Opportunistic 115.1066, -34.0260 Brushtail Possum 10 Oct 2015 Sighting 3 Opportunistic 115.1004, -34.0243 Western Ringtail 26 Sept 2015 Sighting 4 Possum Opportunistic 115.1046, -34.01813 Southern Brown 16 Aug 2015 Sighting 5 Bandicoot Digging

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Fauna and Habitat Assessment Witchcliffe Ecovillage, December 2015

APPENDIX 4: HABITAT ASSESSMENT RESULTS

Habitat Assessment Table : Location 1 Location Northern Creekline Vegetation EDVG: Open Forest of Eucalyptus diversicolor with occasional Description scattered Eucalytpus patens, Agonis flexuosa, Eucalyptus megacarpa, Callistachys lanceolata over a shrub layer of Taxandria linearifolia, Astartea laricifolia over a sedge/ rush layer of Lepidosperma tetrequetrum and Juncus microcephalus. Vegetation Very Good Condition condition Ground Layer Good leaf litter layer and range of woody debris, fallen logs etc Excellent covering of ground covers and sedges and rush species particularly in streamline.

Mid Storey Diverse mid storey consisting predominantly of Swamp Peppermint, Native Willow/ Wonnich, Karri Hazel

Overstorey Mixed coverage of Karri, WA Peppermint, Blackbutt, Marri

Connectivity to ~ 700m to nearest reasonable size remnant surrounding ~900m downstream to nearest good condition remnant vegetation remnants and SWREL rating as 1a vegetation linkage based on proximity similar Some connectivity to adjoining roadside vegetation along Mill Rd vegetation and along degraded riparian vegetation through Lot 73 to the East Feeding and Excellent vegetation cover, floristic and structural diversity, creating breeding great foraging opportunites. Moderate coverage of fallen logs and resources ground debris, Some standing hollows. Active bird population. Overall Habitat Very Good Rating

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Fauna and Habitat Assessment Witchcliffe Ecovillage, December 2015

Habitat Assessment Table : Location 2

Location Eastern Remnant Vegetation CcEmVG: Open Forest of Corymbia calophylla and Eucalyptus Description marginata over open shrubland of Acacia myrtifolia, Podocarpus drouynianus, Hovea elliptica, Tremandra stelligera, Taxandria parviceps, Hibbertia hypericoides. Vegetation Very Good Condition Good leaf little and understorey cover, some condition elements of the mid storey are lacking Ground Layer Leaf Litter 90% cover, good range of fallen timber and logs. Moderate to sparse mixed ground cover of vegetation Mid Storey Limited mid storey largely lacking Hakea and Banksia species which should be present – possibly the result of an old infestation impacts of Phytophthora dieback. Limited mid storey dominated by Tree Hovea, Emu Plum Overstorey Overstorey of regrowth Jarrah and Marri providing good canopy cover and connectivity. Multiple signs of historical logging including cut stumps and haul ramp. Connectivity to Direct connectivity to very good to excellent condition remnant surrounding vegetation to the East remnants and SWREL classed 1a connectivity based on proximity to axis line similar SWREL axis line crosses East West through the remnant. vegetation Feeding and Hollow bearing trees scattered through the remnant but limited due breeding to the relatively young age class of regrowth following historical resources logging practices. Limitations in terms of floristic and structural diversity – habitat potential is enhanced due to the proximity of additional resources to the east. Habitat Rating Good

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Fauna and Habitat Assessment Witchcliffe Ecovillage, December 2015

APPENDIX 5: RESULTS OF ISOLATED HABITAT TREE ASSESSMENT

Feature Name Lat, Long Description Date of Record Isolated Habitat 115.1038, -34.0307 Hollow bearing 16 Aug 2015 Feature 1 Jarrah East North 1:39 pm East facing hollow estimated at 15cm diameter entrance

Isolated Habitat 115.1033 -34.0244 Remnant Marri 16 Aug 2015 Feature 2 large rotten top 3:38 pm possible hollow

Isolated Habitat 115.1069, -34.0278 Hollow bearing and 9 Nov 2015 5:15 Feature 3 nest tree Marri pm

Isolated Habitat 115.1069, -34.0283 Hollow bearing 9 Nov 2015 5:18 Feature 4 potential habitat pm tree Marri dbh~150cm

Isolated Habitat 115.1023, -34.0249 Large long dead 9 Nov 2015 5:54 Feature 5 stag. pm Species uncertain Dbh ~150 cm Potential habitat tree

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Fauna and Habitat Assessment Witchcliffe Ecovillage, December 2015

APPENDIX 6: RECOMMENDATIONS FOR UNDERTAKING CLEARING OPERATIONS ON SITE

In order to reduce the potential impacts of the development and facilitate the restoration of habitat and vegetation condition across the site, clearing of locally native vegetation on site has been avoided and minimised wherever possible. Where clearing of native vegetation is required the following recommendations have been developed to minimise the impact on fauna nesting, roosting or foraging within the vegetation:

• Time clearing to ensure that it doesn’t coincide with likely breeding periods for conservation significant species potentially occurring onsite eg) Black Cockatoos (Breeding window October to April). • Wherever possible retain hollow bearing trees within the cleared areas; • Specifically delineate and brief operators on the extent, nature and bounds of the clearing operation and follow up during the process to ensure that this is being followed; • Ensure that vegetation to be retained is adequately protected through careful and sensitive operations within the clearing zone. This includes felling all vegetation into the clearing zone to ensure protected vegetation is not inadvertently cleared or damaged; • Ensure a DPAW licensed fauna relocator/ handler is present onsite before, during and after the clearing operations to undertake preclearance survey, supervise the clearing and inspect felled vegetation and to • Where possible utilise felled timber for the highest possible purpose – depending on the nature of material this may include milling, bush poles, firewood or chipping for use within the landscaping on site. • Wherever possible undertake a staged or staggered approach to clearing whereby habitat trees are retained during the first stage with the disturbance of the first stage of clearing likely to trigger some species within habitat trees to relocate of their own accord;

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Fauna and Habitat Assessment Witchcliffe Ecovillage, December 2015

APPENDIX 7: PHOTOS

European Fox, Eastern Remnant, 9/12/2015 Brushtailed Possum, Eastern Remnant, 23/8/2015 Western Grey Kangaroo, Eastern Remnant 25/8/2015 CcEmG

Baudins Black Cockatoo Flock Baudins Black Cockatoo Western Ringtail Possum, Shirvington Ave

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Fauna and Habitat Assessment Witchcliffe Ecovillage, December 2015

Isolated habitat feature 1 Isolated habitat feature 3 Isolated habitat feature 4

Isolated habitat feature 5

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Fauna and Habitat Assessment Witchcliffe Ecovillage, December 2015

FIGURES

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Fauna and Habitat Assessment Witchcliffe Ecovillage, December 2015

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Fauna and Habitat Assessment Witchcliffe Ecovillage, December 2015

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Fauna and Habitat Assessment Witchcliffe Ecovillage, December 2015

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Fauna and Habitat Assessment Witchcliffe Ecovillage, December 2015

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