MT OWEN COMPLEX

FAUNA MONITORING

2018 ANNUAL REPORT

New nest boxes, MOC Rehabilitation, 2018

Banded Lapwing, Glendell Rehabilitation, 2018 Red-browed Finch, MOC South-east biodiversity offset area

Musk Lorikeet, MOC South-east biodiversity offset Rainbow Bee-eater, MOC Stringybark Creek BOA

Forest Fauna Surveys Pty Ltd

Mt. Owen Complex Fauna Monitoring 2018

MT. OWEN COMPLEX

FAUNA MONITORING

2018 ANNUAL REPORT

Report prepared for

MT. OWEN COMPLEX

This report prepared by

Michael Murray [B.Sc.(Hons)] Forest Fauna Surveys Pty Ltd 51 Sheridan Avenue ADAMSTOWN HEIGHTS NSW 2289 (02) 4946 2977 [email protected]

Acknowledgements. David Currey, Sam Lake and Ned Stephenson (Glencore Mt Owen) and Linda Lunnon and Hubert Mhangami (Thiess Environment Advisors) kindly provided information and assistance with a number of tasks throughout the year. Mike Pereira (Mt Owen Glendell) reviewed the draft report.

Document History

Document No. Prep. Date Version Checked by Date 00403.a 29.01.2019 Draft v.1 Mike Pereira 18.02.2019 00403.0 25.02.2019 FINAL

______25 February 2019 Forest Fauna Surveys Pty Ltd 00403.0 Page i Mt. Owen Complex Fauna Monitoring 2018

TABLE OF CONTENTS

EXECUTIVE SUMMARY ...... i 1.0 INTRODUCTION ...... 2 1.1 Background ...... 2 1.2 Prescriptions for Fauna Monitoring ...... 2 1.3 Performance Indicators and Completion Criteria ...... 3 2.0 METHODOLOGY ...... 3 2.1 Birds ...... 4 2.2 Frogs ...... 4 2.3 Nest Box Installation ...... 4 2.4 Habitat Clearing ...... 5 2.5 Research Licensing ...... 5 3.0 RESULTS ...... 6 3.1 Birds ...... 6 3.2 Frogs ...... 7 3.3 Habitat Enhancement Works ...... 8 3.3.1 Installation of Nest Boxes ...... 8 3.3.2 Spotted-tail Quoll Habitat Enhancement ...... 14 3.4 Habitat Clearing ...... 14 4.0 DISCUSSION ...... 17 5.0 REFERENCES ...... 19 APPENDIX ONE – FAUNA LIST, 1994 – 2018 ...... 21 APPENDIX TWO – NEST BOX INSTALLATION DATA 2018 ...... 34 APPENDIX THREE – SPOTTED-TAIL QUOLL HABITAT ENHANCMENT ...... 37 APPENDIX FOUR – SUMMARY REPORTS, TREE CLEARING ...... 54

LIST OF FIGURES

Figure 1. Bird Species Cumulative Total, Mt Owen Complex 1994 – 2018...... 6 Figure 2. Monthly Rainfall Comparison 2002 – 2018 ...... 7 Figure 3 Location of Installed Microbat Nest Boxes, Bowmans Creek, Glendell Open Cut ...... 8 Figure 4 Location of Installed Nest Boxes, Rehabilitation Area, Glendell Open Cut ...... 9 Figure 5 Location of Installed Nest Boxes, Glendell Habitat Management Zone, Glendell Open Cut ...... 10 Figure 6 Location of Installed Nest Boxes 2018, Forest East / North East Offsets, Mt Owen Complex ...... 11 Figure 7 Location of Installed Nest Boxes 2018, Travelling Stock Route / South-east Offsets, Mt Owen Complex .... 12 Figure 8 Location of Installed Nest Boxes 2018, North West Offset, Mt Owen Complex ...... 13 Figure 9 Location of Pit C Strip_10 clearing area, Mt Owen Complex ...... 16

______25 February 2019 Forest Fauna Surveys Pty Ltd 00403.0 Page ii Mt. Owen Complex Fauna Monitoring 2018

LIST OF TABLES

Table 1. Fauna Monitoring Sites, Mt Owen Complex ...... 3 Table 2. Survey Dates for Fauna Surveys / Habitat Improvement Works, Mt Owen Complex, 2018...... 4 Table 3 Nest Boxes installed in 2018 ...... 8 Table 4 Summary of Habitat Clearing, Mt Owen Complex, 2018 ...... 15 Table 5 Summary of Fauna recovered during Habitat Clearing, Mt Owen Complex, 2018 ...... 15 Table 6 Short Term Performance Indicators (Year 2), Mt Owen Complex, 2018 ...... 17

______25 February 2019 Forest Fauna Surveys Pty Ltd 00403.0 Page iii Mt. Owen Complex Fauna Monitoring 2018

EXECUTIVE SUMMARY

The fauna monitoring program at the Mt Owen Complex was modified in 2017, to account for the requirements for fauna surveys to be conducted in several new biodiversity offset areas. As a consequence, the fauna monitoring schedule for surveys in 2018 was brought forward in 2017, to account for both the new biodiversity offsets and the Mt Owen Complex.

Therefore, in 2018, no comprehensive fauna monitoring surveys at the 9 sites were conducted in the Mt Owen Complex. Rather, the works in 2018 comprised:  specific threatened fauna species surveys (winter bird census for Swift Parrot, Regent Honeyeater),  an initial frog survey in February 2018 for the endangered Green & Golden Bell Frog, and  habitat improvement works.

Climatic conditions experienced in 2018 remained very dry with below average rainfall recorded (405mm compared to the 2002-2018 average of 649mm). Several rainfall events were recorded in 2018, but comprised occurred on a limited number of days per month, resulting in extended periods of dry weather. No rainfall events were significant to restore or fill any water bodies at the Mt Owen Complex, resulting in most water bodies being dry since mid 2017. An initial frog survey was conducted in early February 2018. Many water bodies that comprise monitoring sites for frogs were dry, and remained so during 2018. No further monitoring surveys were conducted in 2018 due to absence of water and no presence of active frogs.

In 2018, despite most of the works targeting habitat restoration, one new species was detected, the Banded Lapwing. This species is typically associated with drier inland habitats, but many observations of this species were recorded in the Hunter Valley in 2018. Their presence in the Hunter Valley is attributed to the dry conditions inland. The cumulative total for bird species at the Mt Owen Complex is 171 species.

No presence of the nationally threatened Swift Parrot and Regent Honeyeater were recorded at Mt Owen Complex in 2018. The Swift Parrot was previously recorded in 2005, 2007 and 2014. The Regent Honeyeater has never been recorded within the Mt Owen Complex since commencement of monitoring in 1995. Four threatened fauna species were detected in 2018, resulting from opportunistic observations whilst conducting other duties. All four species have been recorded in previous monitoring years at the Mt Owen Complex (refer to Table ES1 below).

Nest boxes (101) were installed at a number of locations within the Mt Owen Complex in 2018, including the rehabilitation areas in both Glendell [20 boxes] and Mt Owen [30 boxes], but also biodiversity offset areas [51 boxes]. In addition, a number of nest boxes installed in the Pit C Strip 10 area were relocated to offset areas due to clearing of forest for expansion of Pit C.

Habitat clearing in 2018 was conducted in the Pit C Strip 10 area, whereby about 43.9 hectares of remnant forest and replanted areas was cleared. Several fauna species and habitat features (habitat trees with hollows, ground logs and rocks, Grey-crowned Babbler nest) were removed from the clearing area and relocated to nearby remnant forest / rehabilitation areas.

Performance Indicators and Completion Criteria for 2018 are outlined in the BOMP (Glencore, 2018). The various indicators include pre-clearance surveys and tree felling supervision, salvage of biodiversity features, habitat enhancement and reporting. Each criteria is addressed in detail in the following sections of this report.

______25 February 2019 Forest Fauna Surveys Pty Ltd 00403.0 Executive Summary i Mt. Owen Complex Fauna Monitoring 2018

Table ES1. Threatened Fauna Species recorded in Mt Owen Mine Complex 1996 to 2018.

Common Name EPBC BC Act 1996 1997 1998 1999 2000 2001 2002 2003 2004 2005 2006 2007 2008 2009 2010 2011 2012 2013 2014 2015 2016 2017 2018 Swift Parrot E E √ √ √ Green & Golden Bell Frog E E √ √ √ ? White-bellied Sea Eagle V √ √ √ √ √ √ √ √ √ √ √ √ √ √ √ √ √ √ Little Eagle V √ √ √ √ Little Lorikeet V √ √ √ √ √ √ √ √ √ √ √ √ √ √ √ √ √ √ Powerful Owl V √ √ √ √ Masked Owl V √ √ √ √ √ √ √ √ √ √ √ √ √ Brown Treecreeper V √ √ √ √ √ √ √ √ √ √ √ √ √ √ √ √ √ √ √ √ √ √ Speckled Warbler V √ √ √ √ √ √ √ √ √ √ √ √ √ √ √ √ √ √ √ √ √ √ √ Black-chinned Honeyeater V √ √ √ √ Scarlet Robin V √ √ Flame Robin V √ √ Hooded Robin V √ √ √ √ √ √ √ √ √ √ √ √ √ √ √ √ √ Grey-crowned Babbler V √ √ √ √ √ √ √ √ √ √ √ √ √ √ √ √ √ √ √ √ √ √ √ Varied Sittella V √ √ √ √ √ √ √ √ √ √ √ Dusky Woodswallow V √ √ √ √ √ √ √ √ √ √ √ √ √ √ √ √ √ √ √ √ √ √ Diamond Firetail V √ √ √ √ √ √ √ √ √ √ √ √ √ √ √ √ Spotted-tail Quoll V V √ √ √ √ √ √ √ √ √ √ √ √ √ √ Brush-tailed Phascogale V √ √ √ Squirrel Glider V √ √ √ √ √ √ √ √ √ √ √ √ √ √ √ √ √ √ √ √ √ New Holland Mouse V √ √ √ √ √ √ Grey-headed Flying-fox V V √ √ √ √ √ √ √ Yellow-bellied Sheathtail Bat V √ ? √ √ √ East-coast Freetail Bat V √ √ √ √ √ √ √ √ √ √ √ √ √ √ √ √ √ √ √ √ √ Large-eared Pied Bat V V ? ? ? ? √ √ Eastern Bentwing-bat V √ √ √ √ √ √ √ √ √ √ √ √ √ √ √ √ √ √ √ Little Bentwing-bat V ? ? √ Large-footed Myotis V √ √ √ √ ? ? √ Greater Broad-nosed Bat V √ √ √ √ ? ? √ √ √

______25 February 2019 Forest Fauna Surveys Pty Ltd 00403.0 Executive Summary i Mt. Owen Complex Fauna Monitoring 2018

1.0 INTRODUCTION

1.1 Background

The Mt Owen Complex is located in the Upper Hunter Valley of New South Wales, approximately 25 kilometres northwest of Singleton. The Complex is owned and managed by Glencore Mt Owen. The original 1994 development consent for Mt Owen Mine permitted disturbance of 240 hectares of the Ravensworth State Forest, which was considered to be a highly significant remnant on a local and regional scale. Ravensworth State Forest comprises three distinct areas that will not be disturbed by mining; the Northern Remnant, the Southern Remnant and the New Forest. These areas are to be managed and protected to maintain these values.

A Plan of Management for Revegetation and Wildlife Management (POM) was developed following the granting of consent for Mt Owen in 1994. The POM was developed to guide flora and fauna management and rehabilitation and revegetation practices at Mt Owen. The principal goal of the POM was to “re-establish and improve the ecological values of the RSF and specified adjoining area”.

Monitoring of protected and threatened fauna species and their habitat has been undertaken at the Mt Owen Complex since 1996 in accordance with the prescriptions and guidelines specified in the:

 Mt Owen Mine Plan of Management for Revegetation and Wildlife Management (1995) and revisions of that Plan, and  Mt Owen Complex Flora and Fauna Management Plan (Xstrata Coal & Thiess, 2006) and subsequent revisions, including the Mt Owen Complex Biodiversity Management Plan (2014)  Biodiversity and Offset Management Plan (BOMP) 2018 (Glencore, 2018).

This 2018 Annual Fauna Monitoring Report details the results of works undertaken at the Mt Owen Complex during the period January to December 2018. This report also describes those actions that were undertaken in 2018 to comply with Appendix D – Performance Indicators and Completion Criteria (Glencore, 2018).

1.2 Prescriptions for Fauna Monitoring

The fauna monitoring program has been devised to monitor the distribution and abundance of native fauna in the remaining natural area of Ravensworth State Forest (including the Southern Remnant), but also the New Forest Area to the north of Ravensworth State Forest, Biodiversity Offset Areas and Mine Rehabilitation areas.

The fauna monitoring has been designed to monitor the distribution and abundance of protected and threatened species of fauna over time in the different habitats so as to provide detailed information about habitat use for management of the area and also the usefulness of such habitat establishment programs for conservation of native fauna. Modifications to the fauna monitoring program have been made in accordance with new listings of threatened species and or detection of new threatened species in the Mt Owen Complex area. The fauna monitoring survey methodologies are detailed in the following Section 2.0 of this document.

The fauna survey methodologies follow the procedures specified in the Mt Owen Complex Biodiversity and Offset Management Plan (Glencore, 2018). As a background, the Mt Owen Mine Plan of Management (1995) specified 11 fauna monitoring sites to be sampled annually. However, during the period 1997 – 2005, three fauna monitoring sites were removed from the program, due to being located within the mine operation area. Three additional fauna monitoring ______25 February 2019 Forest Fauna Surveys Pty Ltd 00403.0 Page 2 Mt. Owen Complex Fauna Monitoring 2018

sites were removed from the monitoring program following the year 2000 review. To offset the loss of monitoring sites from mining operations and reviews, four replacement sites were selected and included in the monitoring program. The new sites were located in rehabilitation and biodiversity offsite areas.

1.3 Performance Indicators and Completion Criteria

Table D.1 of the BOMP (2018) outline the Performance Indicators and Completion Criteria for the MOC (pages 102 – 112)(Glencore, 2018). For 2018 (Year 2), actions specific to this report (fauna monitoring) include the following:  Minimise Impacts on Biodiversity  Habitat Enhancement  Biodiversity Monitoring  Reporting. For each Performance Indicator listed above, this report presents results of each action completed in 2018.

2.0 METHODOLOGY

Section 5.1.2 (p. 71) of the BOMP outlines the requirements of the annual fauna monitoring. Nine fauna monitoring sites have been established to monitor for general fauna (including microchiropteran bats) and thirteen frog monitoring sites. Details of each of the fauna monitoring sites is listed below in Table 1.

Table 1. Fauna Monitoring Sites, Mt Owen Complex

Fauna Monitoring Site Year Fauna Monitoring Site (BOMP, 2018) Established (PoM 1995) Habitat Type For1 1995 C Remnant Open Forest For2 1995 E Remnant Open Forest For3 1995 I Remnant Open Forest Reg1 1995 A Regeneration Woodland Reg2 2004 - Regeneration Woodland Reg3 2004 - Regeneration Woodland Reh1 1998 K2 Rehabilitation Reh2 2005 - Rehabilitation Reh3 2015 Close to Site J Rehabilitation

Fauna Sites no longer included in Fauna Monitoring Sites H, J, K cleared 1997 – 2005 1995 Sites B, D and F removed following review in Year 2000 Reg4 1995 G Removed in 2016

Table 5.3 – Seasonal Fauna Monitoring Schedule in the BOMP (2018) outlines the annual fauna monitoring schedule. For 2018, works comprised winter surveys for federally listed threatened species, habitat enhancement measures for Spotted-tail Quoll habitat improvement works, nest box installation and replacement works.

______25 February 2019 Forest Fauna Surveys Pty Ltd 00403.0 Page 3 Mt. Owen Complex Fauna Monitoring 2018

Table 2. Survey Dates for Fauna Surveys / Habitat Improvement Works, Mt Owen Complex, 2018.

Fauna Works 2018 Fauna Group Jan /Feb Mar / Apr May / Jun Jul / Aug Sep / Oct. Nov / Dec BIRDS 23- Winter Bird Census 24/07/2018 ALL FAUNA Nest box Installations Biodiversity Offsets 9-12/11/2018 Glendell Rehabilitation 24/07/2018 10/082018 Mt Owen Rehabilitation 12/12/2018 AMPHIBIANS Green & Golden Bell Frog (Nocturnal Searches) – site specific 10/02/2018

2.1 Birds

Diurnal bird census surveys comprise a winter survey for birds. Additionally, birds were recorded opportunistically whilst undertaken other field duties. This includes direct observations of bird species and identification of their characteristic calls.

Sample plot counts employ a standard 40 minute search within a 1 hectare area (i.e. 100m x 100m, 50m x 200m, etc.) at each of the 9 fauna monitoring sites. Counts of all bird species observed or heard are conducted only during periods of relatively high bird activity (i.e. early morning or late afternoon), and with reasonable detectability. All bird species and individuals seen or heard are recorded, being scored as on-site if detected within plot, or off-site if recorded in adjacent vegetation types or flying overhead.

A list of the bird species recorded during the 2018 and previous fauna monitoring periods is presented in Appendix 1.

2.2 Frogs

One monitoring survey for frogs was conducted in February 2018 at nominated sites. The survey comprised searching the perimeter of each water body for presence of active or basking frogs. The duration of the search is influenced by the size of the water body perimeter and presence of standing water. As most water bodies were dry in 2018, the survey durations at each pond were very short (< 5mins per pond).

2.3 Nest Box Installation

The BOMP (2018) specifies the installation of nest boxes in a number of biodiversity offsets. In addition, a number of nest boxes were required to be installed in the Glendell offset area due to clearing of native vegetation for the relocated 330kV electricity transmission line. A range of nest box styles were installed, either mounted on existing trees with sufficient height and girth, or installed on timber poles. Boxes were installed at a height of 3.5 metres above ground.

The selection of nest box types at each location was influenced by the presence of habitat suitable for those species. For instance, glider / phascogale style boxes were installed in areas with remnant forest / woodland that is likely to support

______25 February 2019 Forest Fauna Surveys Pty Ltd 00403.0 Page 4 Mt. Owen Complex Fauna Monitoring 2018

the species. In contrast, in open areas with newly established vegetation (i.e. rehabilitation or open grassland), nest boxes were installed for flying species such as birds and microbats.

2.4 Habitat Clearing

In 2018, about 43.9 hectares of Pit C (Strip 10) was cleared. The methodology for habitat clearing is specified in the Mt Owen Complex BOMP (2018). Prescriptions to undertake pre-clearance surveys and tree felling supervision are outlined in Section 3.1.2, p. 39 of the BOMP.

These prescriptions include the following:  identification of habitat resources,  potential presence of threatened flora and fauna, endangered populations and threatened ecological communities,  identification of threatened species or habitat features that are suitable for translocation or salvage,  disturbance activities should be targeted to specific times of year to minimise impacts to threatened species.

The pre-clearance search of the area was conducted by walking the area and recording the location of any features as prescribed in the Mount Owen Complex BOMP (Glencore, 2018). Locations were recorded by hand held GPS (Garmin CSx60). Any habitat trees or significant features were marked with fluorescent pink survey tape and paint. Additional features marked include significant ground logs that may provide sheltering habitat for fauna.

2.5 Research Licensing

The survey and research of fauna during the 2018 monitoring period was undertaken under the following licences and approvals in accordance with the Animal Research Act (1991).

Michael Murray Office of Environment and Heritage Scientific Licence SL100096 Department of Primary Industries Animal Research Authority Trim 15/969 Department of Primary Industries Director-General’s Animal Care and Ethics Committee DG ACEC Trim 15/969

______25 February 2019 Forest Fauna Surveys Pty Ltd 00403.0 Page 5 Mt. Owen Complex Fauna Monitoring 2018

3.0 RESULTS

3.1 Birds

In 2018, one new bird species was recorded within the Mt Owen Complex, the Banded Lapwing. The cumulative total of native bird species recorded for the Mt Owen Complex since inception of the fauna monitoring is 171 species, and is illustrated below in Figure 1.

Figure 1. Bird Species Cumulative Total, Mt Owen Complex 1994 – 2018.

Opportunistic sightings resulted in the recording of many bird species in addition to those recorded by diurnal or nocturnal census. Those opportunistic sighting include several threatened woodland birds such as White-bellied Sea Eagle, Speckled Warbler and Grey-crowned Babbler. The sightings of Banded Plover were recorded in open grassland in the Glendell rehabilitation area. Large flocks of Musk Lorikeet were observed foraging in the canopy of eucalypt and angophora trees in 2018. Limited flowering was observed in the eucalypt trees in 2018, yet large flocks of the Musk Lorikeet were present. No evidence of the threatened Little Lorikeet, which is often detected sympatric with the Musk Lorikeet, was recorded in 2018. The Little Lorikeet is regularly recorded in the Mt Owen Complex, being detected in 18 of the 23 monitoring years.

______25 February 2019 Forest Fauna Surveys Pty Ltd 00403.0 Page 6 Mt. Owen Complex Fauna Monitoring 2018

3.2 Frogs

In 2018, an initial survey conducted in February 2018 recorded only two species, both of which are commonly recorded within the Mt Owen Complex. For many of the dams and waterbodies monitored, they were completely dry, resulting in no presence of active or calling frogs. Surveys were suspended until sufficient rainfall events were encountered at Mt Owen to continue frog monitoring surveys in the remainder of 2018. However, as seen below in Figure 2, no significant events (i.e. > 50mm rainfall) was recorded in 2018 to justify continuation of the frog monitoring. Whilst rainfall was recorded in 2018, each event was isolated and no prolonged rainfall was recorded to either maintain existing water levels, or restore water to the majority of the dams.

Total recorded rainfall for 2018 was 405.7 mm (BOM, Singleton), slightly higher than the rainfall recorded in 2017 (389.9 mm)(refer to Figure 2 below). Both 2017 and 2018 recorded low rainfall compared to the 2002-2018 average value of 649.3 mm. The highest rainfall months were February, March, October, November and December, where the monthly rainfall total exceeded 50mm. However, the majority of rainfall events were concentrated to one or two singular events, with large number of days with no rainfall. Consequently, high evaporation rates and lack of absorption failed to either maintain or increase water levels in many of the monitoring ponds. Due to the extended drought over the period 2017 and 2018, most monitoring ponds were dry by February 2018, and remained so for the duration of 2018.

Figure 2. Monthly Rainfall Comparison 2002 – 2018

(data courtesy Singleton Weather Station, Bureau of Meteorology).

One nocturnal census for frogs was conducted in February 2018, with 90% of monitoring water bodies dry. Consequently, no further monitoring for frogs was conducted in 2018 due to absence of aquatic habitat, and calling or active frogs.

______25 February 2019 Forest Fauna Surveys Pty Ltd 00403.0 Page 7 Mt. Owen Complex Fauna Monitoring 2018

3.3 Habitat Enhancement Works

3.3.1 Installation of Nest Boxes

A total of 101 nest boxes specific for a range of fauna species were installed at three locations within the Mt Owen Complex in 2018. A summary of the number and type of nest box installed at each location is presented below in Table 3. Boxes were either installed on trees (biodiversity offsets) or poles (rehabilitation) at a height of 3.5m above ground.

Table 3 Nest Boxes installed in 2018

Small Bird Possum / Location Bat Box Box Glider Box Large Bird Box Total Boxes Glendell Bowmans Creek 10 10 Rehabilitation 7 3 10 Habitat Management Zone 7 4 7 3 21 Mt Owen Biodiversity Offsets Forest East Offset 3 2 5 North-east Offset 3 2 5 North-west Offset 3 2 5 South-east Offset 5 4 1 10 Travelling Stock Route 2 3 5 Mt Owen Rehabilitation 10 10 10 30 TOTAL 47 21 17 16 101

The location coordinates of each installed nest box is presented in detail in Appendix 2. The locations of nest boxes installed in 2018 is presented below in Figures 3 – 6.

Figure 3 Location of Installed Microbat Nest Boxes, Bowmans Creek, Glendell Open Cut

______25 February 2019 Forest Fauna Surveys Pty Ltd 00403.0 Page 8 Mt. Owen Complex Fauna Monitoring 2018

Figure 4 Location of Installed Nest Boxes, Rehabilitation Area, Glendell Open Cut

______25 February 2019 Forest Fauna Surveys Pty Ltd 00403.0 Page 9 Mt. Owen Complex Fauna Monitoring 2018

Figure 5 Location of Installed Nest Boxes, Glendell Habitat Management Zone, Glendell Open Cut

______25 February 2019 Forest Fauna Surveys Pty Ltd 00403.0 Page 10 Mt. Owen Complex Fauna Monitoring 2018

Figure 6 Location of Installed Nest Boxes 2018, Forest East / North East Offsets, Mt Owen Complex

______25 February 2019 Forest Fauna Surveys Pty Ltd 00403.0 Page 11 Mt. Owen Complex Fauna Monitoring 2018

Figure 7 Location of Installed Nest Boxes 2018, Travelling Stock Route / South-east Offsets, Mt Owen Complex

______25 February 2019 Forest Fauna Surveys Pty Ltd 00403.0 Page 12 Mt. Owen Complex Fauna Monitoring 2018

Figure 8 Location of Installed Nest Boxes 2018, North West Offset, Mt Owen Complex

______25 February 2019 Forest Fauna Surveys Pty Ltd 00403.0 Page 13 Mt. Owen Complex Fauna Monitoring 2018

In addition to nest boxes installed in 2018, a number of nest boxes in the advancing Pit C Strip_10 area were relocated to the South-east offset area.

3.3.2 Spotted-tail Quoll Habitat Enhancement

Habitat enhancement measures are to implemented for the Spotted-tail Quoll at Stringybark Creek Biodiversity Offset Area (BOA) at the Mt Owen Complex. In 2014, Mt Owen Complex sought to expand its current approval to extend the life of the mine. Approval was granted subject to a range of Consent Conditions. The focus of Condition 28 of the Consent for the Mt Owen Continued Operations includes regeneration, enhancement and/or re-establishment of habitat and/or foraging resources for significant and/or threatened fauna species, including the Spotted-tail Quoll.

The strategies and habitat enhancement measures are to comply with Section 4.1.12 of the MOC Biodiversity Offset Management Plan (BOMP) (Glencore, 2018) and Section 6.3.2 of the EIS (Mt Owen, 2014). However, the BOMP is general in the prescriptions required to comply with the habitat enhancement measures. A report was prepared in June 2018 (Forest Fauna Surveys PL, 2018b) providing a summary of the habitat requirements for the Spotted-tail Quoll, and recommendations of measures for enhancement of habitat within the Stringybark Creek offset.

The restoration works recommended for the corridor include planting and natural regeneration of the linear riparian strip along Stringybark Creek, consistent with Central Hunter Swamp Oak Forest and Drainage Flat Red Gum Woodland. The remainder of the Stringybark Creek Habitat Corridor is to be restored to Central Hunter Ironbark – Spotted Gum – Grey Box Forest. The works are to include a mix of tree plantings and emplacement of habitat structures such as log piles.

A site investigation was conducted in May 2018 searching for suitable locations to install either rock or ground logs to provide sheltering sites for the Spotted-tail Quoll. Several suitable sites appear suitable along Stringybark Creek, but are problematic with regard to access. Alternative sites along the southern boundary of Stringybark Creek offset also appear suitable with better access for earth moving machinery required to install the habitat structures.

The full report is reproduced in full in Appendix 3.

3.4 Habitat Clearing

The pre-clearing search of the area located a number of ecological features, including several habitat trees, a number of disused nests of the Grey-crowned Babbler, and felled timber with potential for relocation. Clearing was undertaken in March, May and August 2018. A copy of the full report of each clearing area is presented in Appendix 2.

A summary of threatened species, habitat trees and habitat features that were cleared or relocated is presented below in Table 4.

______25 February 2019 Forest Fauna Surveys Pty Ltd 00403.0 Page 14 Mt. Owen Complex Fauna Monitoring 2018

Table 4 Summary of Habitat Clearing, Mt Owen Complex, 2018

Threatened Species / Habitat Feature Location Number Recorded Grey-crowned Babbler Pit C-East 1 Grey-crowned Babbler Nests “ 7 Habitat Tree “ 1 Ground Logs “ 3 Nest Boxes “ 2 Threatened Species / Habitat Feature Pit C Strip_10 Number Recorded Grey-crowned Babbler “ 4 Grey-crowned Babbler Nests “ 8 Habitat Tree “ 23 Ground Logs “ 5 Nest Boxes “ 9 Squirrel Gliders Present “ 3 Brush-tailed Phascogale Nest “ 1 Eastern Freetail Bat “ 6

During the tree clearing operation, several habitat trees felled contained individual fauna species. A summary of those fauna species is presented below in Table 5.

Table 5 Summary of Fauna recovered during Habitat Clearing, Mt Owen Complex, 2018

Habitat Tree ID Fauna Species Recovered Action Required HT04 Common Brushtail Possum Left in situ, healthy condition HT06 Lace Monitor Relocated to HT23 (outside clearing area) HT11 Common Brushtail Possum Left in situ, healthy condition HT15 Common Brushtail Possum Left in situ, healthy condition HT16 Lace Monitor (x2) Relocated to habitat tree outside clearing area HT19 Common Brushtail Possum Left in situ, healthy condition HT20 Lace Monitor Relocated to habitat tree outside clearing area HT22 Common Brushtail Possum Left in situ, healthy condition

The location of the Pit C Strip_10 clearing area is presented below in Figure 9.

______25 February 2019 Forest Fauna Surveys Pty Ltd 00403.0 Page 15 Mt. Owen Complex Fauna Monitoring 2018

Figure 9 Location of Pit C Strip_10 clearing area, Mt Owen Complex

______25 February 2019 Forest Fauna Surveys Pty Ltd 00403.0 Page 16 Mt. Owen Complex Fauna Monitoring 2018

4.0 DISCUSSION

The Performance Indicators and Completion Criteria outlined in Table D.1 - Appendix D of the BOMP (Glencore, 2018) that were achieved in 2018 (Year 2) is summarised below in Table 6.

Table 6 Short Term Performance Indicators (Year 2), Mt Owen Complex, 2018

Table D.1 – Short Term Performance Indicators Actions performed in 2018 Refer to Section of this Report Minimise Impacts on Biodiversity (p. 102) Pre-clearance surveys and tree felling supervision Yes, Pit C Strip C_10 Appendix 4 Salvage of biodiversity features Yes Appendix 4 Habitat Enhancement (p. 103) Salvaged resources and nest boxes are re-instated into Nest box installation in surrounding areas with low levels of habitat features Offsets Appendix 2 Nest boxes and habitat features are providing habitat value for native fauna Nest box inspections Appendix 2 Biodiversity Monitoring Summer frog + winter birds Section 3.0 – Results Reporting (p 112) Collate data on actions implemented and results of inspections and monitoring into the AR Yes This report + submitted records

The 2018 year did not include comprehensive fauna monitoring surveys (as per the BOMP Schedule due to a re- arrangement of the schedule in the 2017 year). Consequently, the works comprised:  specific threatened fauna species surveys (winter bird census for Swift Parrot, Regent Honeyeater);  an initial frog survey in February 2018 for the endangered Green & Golden Bell Frog;  habitat improvement works in the biodiversity offsets, and  ongoing assessment of clearing operations in the C-Pit.

Climatic conditions experienced in 2018 remained very dry with below average rainfall recorded (405mm compared to the 2002-2018 average of 649mm)(BOM data, 2018). Those rainfall events that occurred comprised limited rainfall totals (generally less than 30-40mm) with extended periods of dry weather following. The majority of water bodies that are monitored for frogs at the Mt Owen Complex were completely dry, and had been since mid- to late 2017. Following an initial survey in February 2018, in which very limited frog activity or calling behaviour was recorded, it was decided that no further monitoring surveys be conducted until sufficient rainfall restored habitat quality. For the remainder of 2018, that rainfall failed to eventuate, and the majority of monitoring ponds remained dry.

In 2018, despite most of the works targeting habitat restoration, one new species was detected, the Banded Lapwing. This species is typically associated with drier inland habitats, but many observations of this species were recorded in the Hunter Valley in 2018. Their presence in the Hunter Valley is attributed to the dry conditions inland. The cumulative total for bird species at the Mt Owen Complex is 171 species.

No presence of the nationally threatened Swift Parrot and Regent Honeyeater was recorded at Mt Owen Complex in 2018. The Swift Parrot was previously recorded in 2005, 2007 and 2014, whilst the Regent Honeyeater has not been recorded within the Mt Owen Complex since commencement of monitoring in 1995. Four threatened fauna species were detected in 2018, being detected by opportunistic observations whilst conducting other duties. All four species have previously been recorded at the Mt Owen Complex.

______25 February 2019 Forest Fauna Surveys Pty Ltd 00403.0 Page 17 Mt. Owen Complex Fauna Monitoring 2018

A total of 101 new nest boxes were installed in 2018, including the rehabilitation areas in both Glendell [20 boxes] and Mt Owen [30 boxes], but also biodiversity offset areas [51 boxes]. In addition, a number of nest boxes installed in the Pit C Strip_10 area were relocated to offset areas due to clearing of forest for expansion of Pit C. The BOMP (2018) specifies a target for the number of new nest boxes to be installed in the offset areas over time, particularly those offsets with limited occurrence of natural tree hollows.

The BOMP (2018) also details habitat creation in the Stringybark Creek Biodiversity Offset specific to the Spotted-tail Quoll. In 2018, the offset area was assessed to describe the type of habitat creation to be installed, but also potential locations for installation of such structures. Several potential sites were identified both along Stringybark Creek itself, and also other parts of the offset. However, potential locations along Stringybark Creek are problematic due to access issues for machinery. Parts of the creek line are narrow in width, limiting the area for installation of such structures. Recommended structures include either rock piles and or ground logs of sufficient height and width to create crevices of sufficient size and depth to accommodate the quolls. Salvaged logs or habitat trees from tree clearing operations were recommended for installation as habitat structures. Additionally, large sections of polypipe was also recommended as a potential surrogate for tree logs if they are difficult to source and or transport to Stringybark Creek.

Habitat clearing in 2018 was conducted in the Pit C Strip 10 area, whereby about 43.9 hectares of remnant forest and replanted areas was cleared. Several fauna species and habitat features (habitat trees with hollows, ground logs and rocks, Grey-crowned Babbler nest) were removed from the clearing area and relocated to nearby remnant forest / rehabilitation areas. Habitat features for four threatened species were relocated in 2018, nest boxes containing both individual Squirrel Gliders (n = 3), one box containing nesting structure of Brush-tailed Phascogale, one box containing 6 Eastern Freetail Bat and 15 disused nests of the Grey-crowned Babbler. All the structures were removed from the clearing area and located in adjoining remnant forest or biodiversity offsets.

Two fauna species were recovered from tree felling operations in the Pit C Strip_10 clearing area in 2018, including Common Brushtail Possum (n = 5) and Lace Monitor (n = 4). All 9 individuals appeared in good condition and left in-situ in the tree hollows. Each habitat tree was left for 2-3 days for the individual animals to abandon prior to removal from the clearing area.

______25 February 2019 Forest Fauna Surveys Pty Ltd 00403.0 Page 18 Mt. Owen Complex Fauna Monitoring 2018

5.0 REFERENCES

Fly by Night Bat Surveys and TUNRA, (1996). Mount Owen Coal Mine Wildlife Management Pilot Study. August 1995 - May 1996. Report to Mt Owen Coal Mine and HLA Envirosciences Pty Ltd. October 1996.

Fly by Night Bat Surveys, Forest Fauna Surveys and TUNRA, (1997) Mount Owen Coal Fauna Monitoring. 1996/1997. Report to Mt Owen Coal Mine. December 1997.

Fly by Night Bat Surveys, Forest Fauna Surveys and TUNRA, (1998) Mount Owen Coal Fauna Monitoring. 1997/1998. Report to Mt Owen Coal Mine. December 1997.

Fly by Night Bat Surveys, Forest Fauna Surveys and TUNRA, (1999) Mount Owen Coal Fauna Monitoring. 1998/1999. Report to Mt Owen Coal Mine. December 1999.

Fly by Night Bat Surveys, Forest Fauna Surveys and TUNRA, (2000) Mount Owen Coal Fauna Monitoring. 1999/2000. Report to Mt Owen Coal Mine. December 2000.

Fly by Night Bat Surveys, Forest Fauna Surveys and TUNRA, (2001) Mount Owen Coal Fauna Monitoring. 2000/2001. Report to Mt Owen Coal Mine. December 2001.

Fly by Night Bat Surveys, Forest Fauna Surveys and TUNRA, (2003a) Mount Owen Coal Fauna Monitoring. 2001/2002. Report to Mt Owen Coal Mine. June 2003.

Fly by Night Bat Surveys, Forest Fauna Surveys and TUNRA, (2004) Mount Owen Coal Fauna Monitoring. 2002/2003. Report to Mt Owen Coal Mine. June 2004.

Fly by Night Bat Surveys, Forest Fauna Surveys and TUNRA, (2005) Mount Owen Coal Fauna Monitoring. 2003/2004. Report to Mt Owen Coal Mine. June 2005.

Forest Fauna Surveys & Newcastle Innovation (2012). Mt Owen Complex, Annual Fauna Monitoring Report 2011.

Forest Fauna Surveys & Newcastle Innovation (2013). Mt Owen Complex, Annual Fauna Monitoring Report 2012.

Forest Fauna Surveys & Newcastle Innovation (2014). Mt Owen Complex, Annual Fauna Monitoring Report 2013.

Forest Fauna Surveys & Newcastle Innovation (2015). Mt Owen Complex, Annual Fauna Monitoring Report 2014.

Forest Fauna Surveys & Newcastle Innovation (2016). Mt Owen Complex, Annual Fauna Monitoring Report 2015.

Forest Fauna Surveys & Newcastle Innovation (2017). Mt Owen Complex, Annual Fauna Monitoring Report 2016.

Forest Fauna Surveys PL (2018a). Mt Owen Complex, Annual Fauna Monitoring Report, 2017. Report to Mt Owen Complex, 6 February 2018.

Forest Fauna Surveys PL (2018b). Mt Owen Complex, Spotted-tail Quoll Habitat Enhancement Measures, Mt Owen Complex. Report to Mt Owen Complex, June 2018.

______25 February 2019 Forest Fauna Surveys Pty Ltd 00403.0 Page 19 Mt. Owen Complex Fauna Monitoring 2018

Glencore (2014). Ecological Assessment, Mount Owen Continued Operations Project. Final. Prepared by Umwelt Australia Pty Ltd. October 2014.

Glencore (2018). Mt Owen Open Cut Biodiversity and Offset Management Plan. Prepared 11 July 2017.

Mount Owen Advisory Group (1995). Plan of Management, Revegetation and Wildlife Management in relation to the Mount Owen Mine. Prepared for Mount Owen Open Cut Coal Mine.

Resource Planning Pty Ltd (1994) Mount Owen Coal Project Near Ravensworth, New South Wales. Fauna Impact Statement. For Hunter Valley Coal Corporation Pty Ltd.

Xstrata Coal Mt Owen Complex & Thiess (2006). Mt Owen Complex Flora & Fauna Management Plan. February 2006.

______25 February 2019 Forest Fauna Surveys Pty Ltd 00403.0 Page 20 Mt. Owen Complex Fauna Monitoring 2018

APPENDIX ONE – FAUNA LIST, 1994 – 2018

The list of fauna tabled in Appendix 1 indicate fauna species recorded within the Mt Owen Complex over the period

 1994 (Fauna Impact Statement) (Resource Planning Pty Ltd, 1994),  1996 (Fly By Night Bat Surveys PL and TUNRA, 1996),  1997 - 2007 (Fly By Night Bat Surveys PL, Forest Fauna Surveys and TUNRA)  2008 – 2018 (Forest Fauna Surveys PL).

The column heading in Appendix 1 fauna list - EPBC Act and BC Act refer to the following threatened species legislation:

 EPBC Act - Environment Protection & Biodiversity Conservation Act 1999, or  BC Act - NSW Biodiversity Conservation Act 2016.

Species listed in Bold Text refer to their status as either:

 E – Endangered,  V – Vulnerable, or  M – Migratory.

______25 February 2019 Forest Fauna Surveys Pty Ltd 00403.0 Page 21 Mt. Owen Complex Fauna Monitoring 2018

FAMILY Common Name EPBC Act BC Act 1994 1996 1997 1998 1999 2000 2001 2002 2003 2004 2005 2006 2007 2008 2009 2010 2011 2012 2013 2014 2015 2016 2017 2018

PHASIANIDAE Stubble Quail + + Brown Quail + + + + + + + + + + + + + + + + ANATIDAE Musk Duck + Black Swan + + + + + + + + + + + + + + + + + Australian Wood Duck + + + + + + + + + + + + + + + + + + + + + + + Pacific Black Duck + + + + + + + + + + + + + + + + + + + + + + + Australasian Shoveller + + + + + + + + + + + Grey Teal + + + + + + + + + + + + + + + + + + + + Chestnut Teal + + + + + + + + + + + + + + + + + + + + + Pink-eared Duck + Hardhead + + + + + + + + + + + + + + + + + + + PODICIPEDIDAE Great Crested Grebe + Hoary-headed Grebe + + + Australian Grebe + + + + + + + + + + + + + + + + + + + + + + + ANHINGIDAE Australian Darter + + + + + + + + + + + + + + + + + + + + PHALACROCORACIDAE Little Pied Cormorant + + + + + + + + + + + + + + + + + + + + + + Little Black Cormorant + + + + + + + + + + + + + + + + + + + + Great Cormorant + + + + + + + + + + + + + + + + + + + PELECANIDAE Australian Pelican + + + + + + + + + + + + + + + + + + + ARDEIDAE White-faced Heron + + + + + + + + + + + + + + + + + + + + + + + White-necked Heron + + + + + + + + + + + + + + + + + + + + Great Egret + + + + + +

______25 February 2019 Forest Fauna Surveys Pty Ltd 00403.0 Page 22 Mt. Owen Complex Fauna Monitoring 2018

FAMILY Common Name EPBC Act BC Act 1994 1996 1997 1998 1999 2000 2001 2002 2003 2004 2005 2006 2007 2008 2009 2010 2011 2012 2013 2014 2015 2016 2017 2018 Nankeen Night Heron + + PLATALEIDAE Straw-necked Ibis + + Yellow-billed Spoonbill + + + + + + + + + + + ACCIPITRIDAE Pacific Baza + + + + + + + + Black-shouldered Kite + + + + + + + + + + + + + + + + + + + + + + Whistling Kite + + + + + + + + + + + + + + + + White-bellied Sea-eagle V + + + + + + + + + + + + + + + + + + Brown Goshawk + + + + + + + + + + + + + + Collared Sparrowhawk + + + Wedge-tailed Eagle + + + + + + + + + + + + + + + + + + + + + + + Little Eagle V + + + + FALCONIDAE Brown Falcon + + + + + + + + + + + + + + + + + + + + + + + Australian Hobby + + + + + + + + + + + + + + Peregrine Falcon + + + + + + + + + + + + + + + + + Nankeen Kestrel + + + + + + + + + + + + + + + + + + + + + + + RALLIDAE Buff-banded Rail + Dusky Moorhen + + + + + + + + + + + + + + + + + + + + Eurasian Coot + + + + + + + + + + + + + + + + + + + TURNICIDAE Painted Button Quail + + + + + + + + SCOLOPACIDAE Latham's Snipe + + + + + + + + + + + + RECURVIROSTRIDAE Black-winged Stilt + + + + + + + + + + CHARADRIIDAE Black-fronted Dotterel + + + + + + + + + + + + + + + + + + Masked Lapwing + + + + + + + + + + + + + + + + + + + + + + + ______25 February 2019 Forest Fauna Surveys Pty Ltd 00403.0 Page 23 Mt. Owen Complex Fauna Monitoring 2018

FAMILY Common Name EPBC Act BC Act 1994 1996 1997 1998 1999 2000 2001 2002 2003 2004 2005 2006 2007 2008 2009 2010 2011 2012 2013 2014 2015 2016 2017 2018 Banded Lapwing + COLUMBIDAE * Rock Dove + * Spotted Turtle-dove + + Brown Cuckoo-dove + + + + + + Common Bronzewing + + + + + + + + + + + + + + + + + + + + + + + Crested Pigeon + + + + + + + + + + + + + + + + + + + + + + + Peaceful Dove + Diamond Dove + + + + + Bar-shouldered Dove + + + + + + + + + + Topknot Pigeon + + + + + + CACATUIDAE Yellow-tailed Black Cockatoo + + + + Galah + + + + + + + + + + + + + + + + + + + + + + + Little Corella + + + + + Sulphur-crested Cockatoo + + + + + + + + + + + + + + + + + + + + + + + PSITTACIDAE Australian King Parrot + + + + + + + + + + + + + + + + + + + + + + + Crimson Rosella + + + + + + + + + + + + + + + + + + + + + + + Eastern Rosella + + + + + + + + + + + + + + + + + + + + + + + Red-rumped Parrot + + + + + + + + Rainbow Lorikeet + Musk Lorikeet + + + + + + + + + + + + + + Little Lorikeet V + + + + + + + + + + + + + + + + + + + + Swift Parrot E E + + + CUCULIDAE Pallid Cuckoo + + + + + Brush Cuckoo + + Fan-tailed Cuckoo + + + + + + + + + + + + + + + + + + + + + + + Horsfield's Bronze-Cuckoo + + + + Shining Bronze-Cuckoo + + + + + + ______25 February 2019 Forest Fauna Surveys Pty Ltd 00403.0 Page 24 Mt. Owen Complex Fauna Monitoring 2018

FAMILY Common Name EPBC Act BC Act 1994 1996 1997 1998 1999 2000 2001 2002 2003 2004 2005 2006 2007 2008 2009 2010 2011 2012 2013 2014 2015 2016 2017 2018 Eastern Koel + + + + Channel-billed Cuckoo + + + + + + + + + + + + + + + + + + + + + + + CENTROPODIDAE Pheasant Coucal + + + + + + + + + + + + + + + + + STRIGIDAE Southern Boobook + + + + + + + + + + + + + + + + + + + + + + Powerful Owl V + + + + TYTONIDAE Masked Owl V + + + + + + + + + Barn Owl + + + + + + + PODARGIDAE Tawny Frogmouth + + + + + + + + + + + + + + + + + + + + + CAPRIMULGIDAE White-throated Nightjar + + + + + + + + + + + + AEGOTHELIDAE Australian Owlet-Nightjar + + + + + + + + + + + + + + + + + + + + + APODIDAE White-throated Needletail + + + + + + + + + + + + + + + + + + + + + ALCEDINIDAE Azure Kingfisher + HALCYONIDAE Laughing Kookaburra + + + + + + + + + + + + + + + + + + + + + + + Sacred Kingfisher + + + + + + + + + + + + + + + + + + + + + + MEROPIDAE Rainbow Bee-eater + + + + + + + + + + + + + + + + + + + + + + + CORACIIDAE Dollarbird + + + + + + + + + + + + + + + + + + + + + + CLIMACTERIDAE White-throated Treecreeper + + + + + + + + + + + + + + + + + + Brown Treecreeper V + + + + + + + + + + + + + + + + + + + + + + + MALURIDAE ______25 February 2019 Forest Fauna Surveys Pty Ltd 00403.0 Page 25 Mt. Owen Complex Fauna Monitoring 2018

FAMILY Common Name EPBC Act BC Act 1994 1996 1997 1998 1999 2000 2001 2002 2003 2004 2005 2006 2007 2008 2009 2010 2011 2012 2013 2014 2015 2016 2017 2018 Superb Fairy-wren + + + + + + + + + + + + + + + + + + + + + + + Variegated Fairy-wren + + + + + + PARDALOTIDAE Spotted Pardalote + + + + + + + + + + + + + + + + + + + + + + + Striated Pardalote + + + + + + + + + + + + + + + + + + + + + + + Yellow-throated Scrubwren + White-browed Scrubwren + + + + + + + + + + + + + + + + + + + + Speckled Warbler V + + + + + + + + + + + + + + + + + + + + + + Weebill + + + + + + + + + + + + + Brown Gerygone + + Western Gerygone + + + White-throated Gerygone + + + + + + + + + + + + + + + + + + + + + + + Brown Thornbill + + + + + + + Buff-rumped Thornbill + + + + + + + + + + + + + + + Yellow-rumped Thornbill + + + + + + + + + + + + + + + + Yellow Thornbill + + + + + + + + + + + Striated Thornbill + + + + + + + + + + + + MELIPHAGIDAE Red Wattlebird + + + + + + + + Spiny-cheeked Honeyeater + Striped Honeyeater + + + + + + + + + + + + + + + + + + + + + + + Noisy Friarbird + + + + + + + + + + + + + + + + + + + + + + + Little Friarbird + + Bell Miner + Noisy Miner + + + + + + + + + + + + + + + + + + + + + + + Lewin's Honeyeater + + + + + + + + + + + + + + + + + + + + + + Yellow-faced Honeyeater + + + + + + + + + + + + + + + + + + + + + + + White-eared Honeyeater + + + + + + + + + + + + + + + + + + Fuscous Honeyeater + + + + + + + + + White-plumed Honeyeater + + + + + + + + + + + + + + + + + + + + + + + Black-chinned Honeyeater V + + + + ______25 February 2019 Forest Fauna Surveys Pty Ltd 00403.0 Page 26 Mt. Owen Complex Fauna Monitoring 2018

FAMILY Common Name EPBC Act BC Act 1994 1996 1997 1998 1999 2000 2001 2002 2003 2004 2005 2006 2007 2008 2009 2010 2011 2012 2013 2014 2015 2016 2017 2018 Brown-headed Honeyeater + + + + + + + + + + + + + + + + + + + White-naped Honeyeater + + + + + White-cheeked Honeyeater + Eastern Spinebill + + + + + + + + + + + + + + + + + + + + Scarlet Honeyeater + + + + + + + + + + + + + + + + + PETROICIDAE Jacky Winter + + + + + + + + + + + + + + + + + + + + + + + Scarlet Robin V + + + Red-capped Robin + + + + + Flame Robin V + + + Rose Robin + + + + + + + + + + + + Hooded Robin V + + + + + + + + + + + + + + + + + + Eastern Yellow Robin + + + + + + + + + + + + + + + + + + + + + + POMATOSTOMIDAE Grey-crowned Babbler V + + + + + + + + + + + + + + + + + + + + + + + CINCLOSOMATIDAE Eastern Whipbird + + + + + + + + + + + + + + + + + + + + + + Spotted Quail Thrush + NEOSITTIDAE Varied Sittella V + + + + + + + + + + + + + PACHYCEPHALIDAE Eastern Shrike-tit + + + + + Golden Whistler + + + + + + + + + + + + + + + + + + + + + Rufous Whistler + + + + + + + + + + + + + + + + + + + + + + Grey Shrike-thrush + + + + + + + + + + + + + + + + + + + + + + + DICRURIDAE Leaden Flycatcher + + + + + + + + + + + + + + + + + + Restless Flycatcher + + + + Magpie-Lark + + + + + + + + + + + + + + + + + + + + + + + Rufous Fantail + + Grey Fantail + + + + + + + + + + + + + + + + + + + + + + + ______25 February 2019 Forest Fauna Surveys Pty Ltd 00403.0 Page 27 Mt. Owen Complex Fauna Monitoring 2018

FAMILY Common Name EPBC Act BC Act 1994 1996 1997 1998 1999 2000 2001 2002 2003 2004 2005 2006 2007 2008 2009 2010 2011 2012 2013 2014 2015 2016 2017 2018 Willie Wagtail + + + + + + + + + + + + + + + + + + + + + + + CAMPEPHAGIDAE Black-faced Cuckoo-shrike + + + + + + + + + + + + + + + + + + + + + + + White-bellied Cuckoo-shrike + Cicadabird + + + + White-winged Triller + + + + + + + + ORIOLIDAE Olive-backed Oriole + + + + + + + + + + + + + + + + + + + + + + + ARTAMIDAE Dusky Woodswallow V + + + + + + + + + + + + + + + + + + + + + + Grey Butcherbird + + + + + + + + + + + + + + + + + + + + + + + Pied Butcherbird + + + + + + + + + + + + + + + + + + + + + + Australian Magpie + + + + + + + + + + + + + + + + + + + + + + + Pied Currawong + + + + + + + + + + + + + + + + + + + + + + + CORVIDAE Australian Raven + + + + + + + + + + + + + + + + + + + + + + + Torresian Crow + CORCORACIDAE White-winged Chough + + + + + + + + + + + + + + + + + + + + + + + PTILONORHYNCHIDAE Satin Bowerbird + + + + + + + + + + + + + + + + + + + + MOTACILLIDAE Australian Pipit + + + + + + + + + + + + + + + + + + + + + + + PASSERIDAE * House Sparrow + + Zebra Finch + + + Double-barred Finch + + + + + + + + + + + + + + + + + + + + Red-browed Finch + + + + + + + + + + + + + + + + + + + + + + + + Diamond Firetail V + + + + + + + + + + + + + + + + + DICAEIDAE Mistletoebird + + + + + + + + + + + + + + + + + + + + + ______25 February 2019 Forest Fauna Surveys Pty Ltd 00403.0 Page 28 Mt. Owen Complex Fauna Monitoring 2018

FAMILY Common Name EPBC Act BC Act 1994 1996 1997 1998 1999 2000 2001 2002 2003 2004 2005 2006 2007 2008 2009 2010 2011 2012 2013 2014 2015 2016 2017 2018 HIRUNDINIDAE Welcome Swallow + + + + + + + + + + + + + + + + + + + + + + + Tree Martin + + Fairy Martin + + + + + + + + + + + + + + + + + + + + + + + SYLVIIDAE Australian Reed-warbler + + + + + + + + + + + + + + + Golden-headed Cisticola + + + + + + + + + + + + + + + Rufous Songlark + + + + + + + + + + + + + + + + ZOSTEROPIDAE Silvereye + + + + + + + + + + + + + + + + + + + + + + + STURNIDAE * Common Myna + + + + + + + + + * Common Starling + + + + + + + + + + + + + + +

FAMILY Common Name EPBC Act BC Act 1994 1996 1997 1998 1999 2000 2001 2002 2003 2004 2005 2006 2007 2008 2009 2010 2011 2012 2013 2014 2015 2016 2017 2018 MAMMALS TACHYGLOSSIDAE Short-beaked Echidna + + + + + + + + + + + + + + + + + + + + + DASYURIDAE Yellow-footed Antechinus + + + + + + + + + + + + + + + + + + + + + Brown Antechinus ? Spotted-tail Quoll V V + + + + + + + + + + + + + + + + R Brush-tailed Phascogale V + + + Narrow-nosed Planigale + + + + + Common Dunnart + + + + + + + + + + + + + + + + + + + + + + + PERAMELIDAE Northern Brown Bandicoot + + + + +

______25 February 2019 Forest Fauna Surveys Pty Ltd 00403.0 Page 29 Mt. Owen Complex Fauna Monitoring 2018

FAMILY Common Name EPBC Act BC Act 1994 1996 1997 1998 1999 2000 2001 2002 2003 2004 2005 2006 2007 2008 2009 2010 2011 2012 2013 2014 2015 2016 2017 2018 PHASCOLARCTIDAE Koala V ? VOMBATIDAE Common Wombat + + + + + + + PETAURIDAE Sugar Glider ? Squirrel Glider V + + + + + + + + + + + + + + + + + + + + + + + PSEUDOCHEIRIDAE Common Ringtail Possum + + PHALANGERIDAE Common Brushtail Possum + + + + + + + + + + + + + + + + + + + + + + + MACROPODIDAE Eastern Grey Kangaroo + + + + + + + + + + + + + + + + + + + + + + + Common Wallaroo + + + + + + + + + + + + + + + + + + + + + + Red-necked Wallaby + + + + + + + + + + + + + + + + + + + + + + + Swamp Wallaby + + + + + + + + + + + + + + + + + PTEROPODIDAE Grey-headed Flying-fox V V + + + + + + + + + Little Red Flying-fox + + + + + RHINOLOPHIDAE Eastern Horseshoe-bat + + + + + + + + + + + + EMBALLONEURIDAE Yellow-bellied Sheathtail-bat V + + + + + + MOLOSSIDAE East-coast Freetail Bat V + + + + + + + + + + + + + + + + + + + + + + Southern Freetail Bat + + + + + + + + + + + + + + + White-striped Mastiff Bat + + + + + + + + + + + + + + + + + + + + + + VESPERTILIONIDAE Large-eared Pied Bat V V ? + + Gould's Wattled Bat + + + + + + + + + + + + + + + + + + + + + Chocolate Wattled Bat + + + + + + + + + + + + + + + + + + + + + Eastern Bentwing-bat V + + + + + + + + + + + + + + + + + + + + ______25 February 2019 Forest Fauna Surveys Pty Ltd 00403.0 Page 30 Mt. Owen Complex Fauna Monitoring 2018

FAMILY Common Name EPBC Act BC Act 1994 1996 1997 1998 1999 2000 2001 2002 2003 2004 2005 2006 2007 2008 2009 2010 2011 2012 2013 2014 2015 2016 2017 2018 Little Bentwing-bat V Pr Large-footed Myotis V + + + + Po + + Lesser Long-eared Bat + + + + + + + + + + + + + + + + + + + + + Gould's Long-eared Bat + + + + + + + + + + + + + + + + + Greater Broad-nosed Bat V + + + + pr Pr + + + Inland Broad-nosed Bat + + + + + + + + + + + + + + + + + + + Large Forest Bat + + Eastern Forest Bat + + + + + + + Southern Forest Bat + + + + + + + + + + + + + + + + + + Little Forest Bat + + + + + + + + + + + + + + + + + + + + + MURIDAE New Holland Mouse V + + + + + + * House Mouse + + + + + + + + + + + + + + + + + + + + + 2 * Black Rat + + + + + + + + + + + + + + + + 7 Swamp Rat + + + + + + + CANIDAE * Dog + + + + + + + + + + + + + + + + + + 2 Dingo + + + + + + + + + + + + + + + 8 * Fox + + + + + + + + + + + + + + + + + + 1 FELIDAE * Cat (feral) + + + + + + 1 LEPORIDAE * Brown Hare + + + + + + + + + + + + + + + + + + + + + + + * Rabbit + + + + + + + + + + + + + + + + + + + + + + + EQUIDAE * Horse + + BOVIDAE * Cattle + + + + + + + + + + + + CERVIDAE * Fallow Deer + + + + + + + + + + REPTILES CHELIDAE ______25 February 2019 Forest Fauna Surveys Pty Ltd 00403.0 Page 31 Mt. Owen Complex Fauna Monitoring 2018

FAMILY Common Name EPBC Act BC Act 1994 1996 1997 1998 1999 2000 2001 2002 2003 2004 2005 2006 2007 2008 2009 2010 2011 2012 2013 2014 2015 2016 2017 2018 Eastern Snake-necked Turtle + + + + + + + + + + + + + + + + + + + + GEKKONIDAE Eastern Stone Gecko + + + + + + + + + + + Robust Velvet Gecko + + + + + + + + + + + + + + + Thick-tailed Gecko + PYGOPODIDAE Leaden Delma + + + + AGAMIDAE Jacky Lizard + + + Eastern Water Dragon + Bearded Dragon + + + + + + + + + + + + + + + + + + + + + + VARANIDAE Lace Monitor + + + + + + + + + + + + + + + + + + + + + + + + SCINCIDAE Southern Rainbow-skink + + + + + + + + + + + + + + + Cream-sided Shinning-skink + + + + + + + Robust Ctenotus + + + + + + + + + + + + + + + 6 Copper-tailed Skink + Eastern Ranges Rock-skink + Tree-crevice Skink + + + + + + + + + + + + + + + Bar-sided Forest Skink + + Dark-flecked Garden Sunskink + Pale-flecked Garden Sunskink + Tree-base Litter-skink + + + + + + + + + + + + + + South-eastern Morethia Skink + + + + + + + + + 1 Eastern Bluetongue + + + + + + + TYPHLOPIDAE Proximus Blind Snake + ELAPIDAE Yellow-faced Whipsnake + + + + + + + + + + Red-naped Snake + + + + + + + + Red-bellied Black Snake + + + + + + + + + + + + + + + + + + + ______25 February 2019 Forest Fauna Surveys Pty Ltd 00403.0 Page 32 Mt. Owen Complex Fauna Monitoring 2018

FAMILY Common Name EPBC Act BC Act 1994 1996 1997 1998 1999 2000 2001 2002 2003 2004 2005 2006 2007 2008 2009 2010 2011 2012 2013 2014 2015 2016 2017 2018 Blue-bellied Black Snake + Eastern Brown Snake + + + + + + + + + + + + + + + + + 1 + Bandy Bandy + FROGS MYOBATRACHIDAE Common Eastern Froglet + + + + + + + + + + + + + + + + + + + + + + Eastern Banjo Frog + + + + + + + + + Ornate Burrowing Frog + + + + + Striped Marsh Frog + + + + + + Spotted Grass Frog + + + + + + + + + + + + + + + + + + + + + 3 + Dusky Toadlet + + Smooth Toadlet + + + + + + + + + + + + + + Rugose Toadlet + + + + + + HYLIDAE Green & Golden Bell Frog E E + + + + ? Green Tree Frog + + + + + + + + + + Bleating Tree Frog + + + + + + + + + + + Dwarf Green Tree Frog + + + + + + + + + + + + + + + + + + + Broad Palmed Frog + + + + + + + + + + + + + + + + + + + + Stony Creek Frog + + + Emerald Spotted Tree Frog + + + + + + + + + + + + + + + + + Whistling Tree Frog + + + + + + + + + + + + + + + + +

______25 February 2019 Forest Fauna Surveys Pty Ltd 00403.0 Page 33 Mt. Owen Complex Fauna Monitoring 2018

APPENDIX TWO – NEST BOX INSTALLATION DATA 2018

Location BoxID Fauna Box Style X (GDA94) Y (GDA94) Altitude Date Installed Bowmans Creek floodplain GL050 microbat 317879.8 6408656.3 87 24/07/2018 Bowmans Creek floodplain GL051 microbat 317879.8 6408656.3 87 24/07/2018 Bowmans Creek floodplain GL052 microbat 317886.73 6408663.2 86 24/07/2018 Bowmans Creek floodplain GL053 microbat 317886.73 6408663.2 86 24/07/2018 Bowmans Creek floodplain GL054 microbat 317904.67 6408677.6 86 24/07/2018 Bowmans Creek floodplain GL055 microbat 317904.67 6408677.6 86 24/07/2018 Bowmans Creek floodplain GL056 microbat 317865.61 6408601.4 84 24/07/2018 Bowmans Creek floodplain GL057 microbat 317865.61 6408601.4 84 24/07/2018 Bowmans Creek floodplain GL058 microbat 317921.95 6408634 80 24/07/2018 Bowmans Creek floodplain GL059 microbat 317921.95 6408634 80 24/07/2018 Glendell Rehabilitation GL060 microbat 319863.02 6409702.6 171 10/08/2018 Glendell Rehabilitation GL061 microbat 319863.02 6409702.6 171 10/08/2018 Glendell Rehabilitation GL062 microbat 319870.23 6409681.7 167 10/08/2018 Glendell Rehabilitation GL063 microbat 319870.23 6409681.7 167 10/08/2018 Glendell Rehabilitation GL064 microbat 319843.87 6409735.9 173 10/08/2018 Glendell Rehabilitation GL065 microbat 319843.87 6409735.9 173 10/08/2018 Glendell Rehabilitation GL066 microbat 319826.39 6409766 172 10/08/2018 Glendell Rehabilitation GL067 bird 319808.96 6409802.8 169 10/08/2018 Glendell Rehabilitation GL068 bird 319808.96 6409802.8 169 10/08/2018 Glendell Rehabilitation GL069 bird 319826.45 6409765.9 172 10/08/2018 Forest East BOA FE01-G glider box 323986.07 6415195.1 203 12/11/2018 Forest East BOA FE02-G glider box 323984.6 6415214.3 201 12/11/2018 Forest East BOA FE03-G glider box 323983.95 6415224.4 203 12/11/2018 Forest East BOA FE04-P possum box 323984.31 6415238.6 203 12/11/2018 Forest East BOA FE05-Pa bird 323982.46 6415328.2 206 12/11/2018 Habitat Management Zone GLN-B microbat 321520.13 6408521.7 100 9/11/2018 Habitat Management Zone GLNRNR-Pa bird 321408.08 6409328 88 9/11/2018 Habitat Management Zone GLNRO-G glider box 321075.51 6409633.6 85 9/11/2018 Habitat Management Zone GLR07-G glider box 321084.48 6409616.9 86 9/11/2018 Habitat Management Zone GLR--B microbat 321494.88 6408508.5 97 9/11/2018 Habitat Management Zone GL012-G glider box 321264.59 6407490.7 89 9/11/2018 Habitat Management Zone GL087-P possum box 321287.36 6407470.8 89 9/11/2018 Habitat Management Zone GL088-B microbat 321217.51 6407430.7 86 9/11/2018 Habitat Management Zone GL089-B microbat 321280.31 6407485.5 87 9/11/2018 Habitat Management Zone GL090-B microbat 321587.71 6407959.3 95 9/11/2018 Habitat Management Zone GL091-B microbat 321559.07 6407993.6 95 9/11/2018 Habitat Management Zone GL092-G glider box 321587.03 6407983.5 95 9/11/2018 Habitat Management Zone GL093-Pa bird 321563.63 6407979.4 95 9/11/2018 Habitat Management Zone GL094-P possum box 321485.58 6408522.1 95 9/11/2018 Habitat Management Zone GL095-Pa bird 321487.3 6408511.2 95 9/11/2018 Habitat Management Zone GL096-Pa bird 321508.33 6408529.7 94 9/11/2018

______25 February 2019 Forest Fauna Surveys Pty Ltd 00403.0 Page 34 Mt. Owen Complex Fauna Monitoring 2018

Location BoxID Fauna Box Style X (GDA94) Y (GDA94) Altitude Date Installed Habitat Management Zone GL097-G glider box 321266.99 6409338.4 92 9/11/2018 Habitat Management Zone GL098-G glider box 321315.1 6409395.3 90 9/11/2018 Habitat Management Zone GL099-G glider box 321385.68 6409421.3 90 9/11/2018 Habitat Management Zone GL100-P possum box 321284.38 6409381.9 90 9/11/2018 Habitat Management Zone GLNR-B microbat 321492.23 6408523 94 9/11/2018 North-east BOA NE002-B microbat 323385.4 6416908.7 213 12/11/2018 North-east BOA NE01-B microbat 323441.56 6416922.9 216 12/11/2018 North-east BOA NE03-B microbat 323380.26 6416921.5 214 12/11/2018 North-east BOA NE04-Pa bird 323371.97 6416931.7 217 12/11/2018 North-east BOA NE05-Pa bird 323362.95 6416896.3 215 12/11/2018 North-west BOA NW01-B microbat 321632.69 6416167.2 166 12/11/2018 North-west BOA NW02-B microbat 321618.37 6416405 185 12/11/2018 North-west BOA NW03-B microbat 321584.4 6416422.5 182 12/11/2018 North-west BOA NW04-Pa bird 321629.4 6416406.1 190 12/11/2018 North-west BOA NW05-Pa bird 321622.98 6416434.6 185 12/11/2018 South-east BOA SE01-G glider box 323878.46 6413380.9 159 12/11/2018 South-east BOA SE02-B microbat 323912.68 6413339.1 156 12/11/2018 South-east BOA SE03-B microbat 323909.2 6413309.4 153 12/11/2018 South-east BOA SE04-P possum box 323933.31 6413305.9 154 12/11/2018 South-east BOA SE05-G glider box 323926.36 6413335.2 155 12/11/2018 South-east BOA SEC01-B glider box 324004.71 6412106.2 128 12/11/2018 South-east BOA SEC02-G glider box 324037.47 6412143 129 12/11/2018 South-east BOA SEC03-B microbat 324047.45 6412192.5 130 12/11/2018 South-east BOA SEC04-B microbat 324014.43 6412117.6 129 12/11/2018 South-east BOA SEC05-B microbat 324002.29 6412121.1 130 12/11/2018 Travelling Stock Route TSR01-G glider box 323673.01 6413849.8 145 12/11/2018 Travelling Stock Route TSR02-G glider box 323641.96 6413850.4 144 12/11/2018 Travelling Stock Route TSR03-B microbat 323625.14 6413830.2 143 12/11/2018 Travelling Stock Route TSR04-B microbat 323556.8 6413751.1 139 12/11/2018 Travelling Stock Route TSR05-G glider box 323585.74 6413736.2 141 12/11/2018 Mt Owen Rehab Reh3-Bird01 bird parrot box 321076.81 6415121.8 297 12/12/2018 Mt Owen Rehab Reh3-Bird02 bird parrot box 321076.81 6415121.8 297 12/12/2018 Mt Owen Rehab Reh3-Bird03 bird parrot box 321126.6 6415142.2 296 12/12/2018 Mt Owen Rehab Reh3-Bird04 bird parrot box 321126.6 6415142.2 296 12/12/2018 Mt Owen Rehab Reh3-Poss01 possum box 321154.14 6415154.8 297 12/12/2018 Mt Owen Rehab Reh3_Bat01 microbat 321154.14 6415154.8 297 12/12/2018 Mt Owen Rehab Reh3-Poss02 possum box 321169.69 6415164.5 297 12/12/2018 Mt Owen Rehab Reh3_Bat02 microbat 321169.69 6415164.5 297 12/12/2018 Mt Owen Rehab Reh3-Poss03 possum box 321193.24 6415226.2 298 12/12/2018 Mt Owen Rehab Reh3_Bat03 microbat 321193.24 6415226.2 298 12/12/2018 Mt Owen Rehab Reh3-Poss04 possum box 321217.29 6415244.5 298 12/12/2018 Mt Owen Rehab Reh3_Bat04 microbat 321217.29 6415244.5 298 12/12/2018 Mt Owen Rehab Reh3-Poss05 possum box 321244.69 6415254.3 298 12/12/2018 Mt Owen Rehab Reh3_Bat05 microbat 321244.69 6415254.3 298 12/12/2018

______25 February 2019 Forest Fauna Surveys Pty Ltd 00403.0 Page 35 Mt. Owen Complex Fauna Monitoring 2018

Location BoxID Fauna Box Style X (GDA94) Y (GDA94) Altitude Date Installed Mt Owen Rehab Reh3-Poss06 possum box 321275.13 6415284 297 12/12/2018 Mt Owen Rehab Reh3_Bat06 microbat 321275.13 6415284 297 12/12/2018 Mt Owen Rehab Reh3-Poss07 possum box 321291.98 6415315.2 298 12/12/2018 Mt Owen Rehab Reh3-Bird05 bird parrot box 321291.98 6415315.2 298 12/12/2018 Mt Owen Rehab Reh3-Poss08 possum box 321285.92 6415354.4 299 12/12/2018 Mt Owen Rehab Reh3-Bird06 bird parrot box 321285.92 6415354.4 299 12/12/2018 Mt Owen Rehab Reh3-Poss09 possum box 321279.39 6415377.7 299 12/12/2018 Mt Owen Rehab Reh3_Bat07 microbat 321279.39 6415377.7 299 12/12/2018 Mt Owen Rehab Reh3-Poss10 possum box 321275.33 6415394.6 296 12/12/2018 Mt Owen Rehab Reh3_Bat08 microbat 321275.33 6415394.6 296 12/12/2018 Mt Owen Rehab Reh3-Bird07 bird parrot box 321345.31 6415317.1 298 12/12/2018 Mt Owen Rehab Reh3-Bird08 bird parrot box 321345.31 6415317.1 298 12/12/2018 Mt Owen Rehab Reh3-Bird09 bird parrot box 321510.49 6415231.5 300 12/12/2018 Mt Owen Rehab Reh3_Bat09 microbat 321510.49 6415231.5 300 12/12/2018 Mt Owen Rehab Reh3-Bird10 bird parrot box 321592.94 6415220.5 301 12/12/2018 Mt Owen Rehab Reh3_Bat10 microbat 321592.94 6415220.5 301 12/12/2018

______25 February 2019 Forest Fauna Surveys Pty Ltd 00403.0 Page 36 Mt. Owen Complex Fauna Monitoring 2018

APPENDIX THREE – SPOTTED-TAIL QUOLL HABITAT ENHANCMENT

______25 February 2019 Forest Fauna Surveys Pty Ltd 00403.0 Page 37

Spotted-tail Quoll Habitat Enhancement Measures Stringybark Creek Habitat Corridor BOA Mt Owen Complex

25 June 2018

Forest Fauna Surveys Pty Ltd

Spotted-tail Quoll Habitat Enhancement Measures, Mt Owen Complex - 2018

Spotted-tail Quoll Habitat Enhancement Measures Mt. Owen Complex

Report prepared for

Mt. Owen Complex

This report prepared by

Michael Murray [B.Sc.(Hons)] Forest Fauna Surveys Pty Ltd 51 Sheridan Avenue ADAMSTOWN HEIGHTS NSW 2289 (02) 4946 2977 [email protected]

Acknowledgements. Sam Palmer, David Currey and Ned Stephenson (Glencore Mt Owen) and Linda Lunnon (Thiess Environment and Community Advisor) kindly provided information and assistance with this project.

Document History

Document No. Prep. Date Version Checked by Date 00393.a 25.06.2018 Draft v.1

______25 June 2018 Forest Fauna Surveys Pty Ltd Page i Spotted-tail Quoll Habitat Enhancement Measures, Mt Owen Complex - 2018

TABLE OF CONTENTS

1.0 INTRODUCTION ...... 1 1.1 Background ...... 1 1.2 Literature Review of Habitat Use of the Spotted-tail Quoll ...... 2 1.3 Stringybark Creek Habitat Corridor Offset ...... 3 2.0 HABITAT ENHANCEMENT MEASURES, STRINGYBARK CREEK HABITAT CORRIDOR ...... 4 2.1 Ground Log Piles ...... 5 2.2 Rock Piles ...... 5 2.3 Hollow Ground Logs...... 5 2.4 Polypipe as Hollow Ground Logs ...... 6 2.5 Recommended Locations of Spotted-tail Quoll Habitat Structures ...... 7 3.0 DISCUSSION ...... 12 4.0 REFERENCES ...... 13 5.0 APPENDIX ...... 13

LIST OF FIGURES

Figure 1. Log pile utilised as Quoll den site, Mt Owen Complex...... 3 Figure 2. Constructed rock pile used as Quoll den and latrine site, Mt Owen Complex...... 3 Figure 3. Large mature habitat tree with multiple hollows, Stringybark Creek Habitat Corridor...... 4 Figure 4.Example of suitable ground log for installation at Stringybark Creek Habitat Corridor...... 6 Figure 5. Potential locations of Spotted-tail Quoll habitat structures, Stringybark Creek Habitat Corridor Offset...... 8

LIST OF TABLES

Table 1. Site Description for each potential Quoll habitat structure...... 9

______25 June 2018 Forest Fauna Surveys Pty Ltd Page ii Spotted-tail Quoll Habitat Enhancement Measures, Mt Owen Complex - 2018

1.0 INTRODUCTION

Habitat enhancement measures are to implemented for the Spotted-tail Quoll at Stringybark Creek Biodiversity Offset Area (BOA) at the Mt Owen Complex. The strategies and habitat enhancement measures are to comply with Section 4.1.12 of the MOC Biodiversity Offset Management Plan (BOMP) (Glencore, 2018) and Section 6.3.2 of the EIS (Mt Owen, 2014). However, the BOMP is general in the prescriptions required to comply with the habitat enhancement measures, and this report provides a summary of the habitat requirements for the Spotted-tail Quoll, and recommendations of measures for enhancement of habitat within the Stringybark Creek offset.

1.1 Background

The Spotted-tail Quoll is listed as threatened on both the federal Environment Protection and Biodiversity Conservation Act 1999 [Vulnerable], and the NSW Biodiversity Conservation Act 2016 [Endangered]. The species has been regularly recorded within the Mt Owen Complex since commencement of monitoring in 1996. Initially, the species was detected at the Mt Owen Mine in 2003 by collection of a scat during investigations for the Fauna Impact Statement (Resource Planning, 1994). The initial Pilot Study in 1996 recorded additional scats of the species (Fly By Night Bat Surveys PL and TUNRA, 1996). Intensive trapping surveys over the period 1995 to 1999 failed to capture any individuals. Annual monitoring surveys over the period 2000 to 2017 resulted in periodic detection of the Spotted-tail Quoll, either by captures, radio-tracking of 2 males in 2013 or recorded by remote field cameras. The species has also been recorded frequenting various buildings within the Complex, including the Store, crib rooms and administration building.

In 2014, Mt Owen Complex sought to expand its current approval to extend the life of the mine. Approval was granted subject to a range of Consent Conditions. The focus of Condition 28 of the Consent for the Mt Owen Continued Operations includes regeneration, enhancement and/or re-establishment of habitat and/or foraging resources for significant and/or threatened fauna species, including the Spotted-tail Quoll.

As part of the process to ameliorate the impact of the Mt Owen Operations on threatened species, 12 biodiversity offsets have been established, which occupy >2,000 hectares. One biodiversity offset, Stringybark Creek Habitat Corridor Offset, occupies an area of 97.5 hectares, and is the focus of creation of substantial foraging and denning habitat for the Spotted-tail Quoll (Mt Owen, 2014). It is proposed to restore a linear riparian strip along Stringybark Creek, consistent with Central Hunter Swamp Oak Forest and Drainage Flat Red Gum Woodland, with the remainder of the corridor restored consistent with Central Hunter Ironbark – Spotted Gum – Grey Box Forest EEC (Mt Owen, 2014).

Mapping of the Stringybark Creek Habitat Corridor identified 6 vegetation communities, with Derived Native Grassland being the most extensive (58.8 hectares, or 60.3% of the Offset area). The community is mostly in the western lower lying parts of the offset. The Spotted Gum – Narrow-leaved Ironbark Forest (EEC) occupies 21.6 hectares, and is located mostly in the central and eastern parts of the corridor offset.

Those prescriptions which apply to this offset is reproduced below:

______25 June 2018 Forest Fauna Surveys Pty Ltd

Page 1 Spotted-tail Quoll Habitat Enhancement Measures, Mt Owen Complex - 2018

4.1.1.2 Augmented Denning Habitat for the Spotted-tailed Quoll in the Stringybark Creek Habitat Corridor Given the known presence of a spotted-tailed quoll (Dasyurus maculatus maculatus) population in the MOC and surrounds, the following habitat enhancement measures will be undertaken within the Stringybark Creek Habitat Corridor to assist the persistence of this species at the site and the broader local area:  salvage of trees felled during mining operations and emplacement within the Stringybark Creek Habitat Corridor as log piles. This will increase the amount of potential foraging and denning habitat for this species in the local area;  and salvage and placement of large rocks and boulders into piles as further potential denning habitat.

Following is a summary of published studies relating to habitat usage of the Spotted-tail Quoll at various locations in NSW. Whilst it must be recognised that the habitats encountered at these various locations are not directly comparable with habitats within the Stringybark Creek BOA, there is sufficient similarities in habitat use / behaviour of the quolls between locations to assist in augmentation of denning habitat at the Stringybark Creek offset.

1.2 Literature Review of Habitat Use of the Spotted-tail Quoll

The Spotted-tail Quoll is widespread in distribution across the eastern ranges and coast in New South Wales. It occurs in a range of broad habitat types, from coastal forests to elevated parts of the Dividing Range. It utilises a range of microhabitats within this broad distribution and has been subject to extensive study on aspects of its ecology. However, for the purpose of this report, specific habitat use (den sites) was reviewed to assist with the proposed habitat enhancement measures to be constructed within the Stringybark Creek Habitat Corridor offset. A number of studies were specifically examined and are summarised below.

In southern NSW, the Spotted-tail Quoll utilised gullies and drainage lines and escarpments when moving. Habitat complexity is highest in gullies and riparian flats as they contained moist forest with dense understory and thick ground and litter cover. This correlated with high density of prey, whilst their preferred den sites were located in complex rocky outcrops on ridges. Despite this forest being unlogged, there were numerous ground logs present. At locations where rocky outcrops were present, they were utilised extensively by the species (Belcher and Darrant, 2006).

In contrast, at Marengo State Forest, which is located on the tablelands in north-east NSW, the area is characterised by large granite outcrops and elevation ranges from 900 to 1,300m. Despite the presence of rocky outcrops, den site selection favoured hollow logs (50.0%), subterranean burrows (18%), rocky crevices (13%) and 10% in hollows in standing trees. Other den sites utilised include base of boulders, beneath a road bridge and timber off-cuts from logging operations (Glen & Dickman, 2006).

At a third comparison site where the Spotted-tail Quoll was investigated, Limeburner’s Creek is located on the mid-north coast of NSW. This location is characterised as coastal forest with no rocky outcrops present. The majority of den sites were located within areas of open eucalypt forest where hollow logs or tree hollows in the trunk and limbs of live and dead standing trees were used (Andrew, 2005).

Radio-tracking of Spotted-tail Quoll at the Mt Owen Complex revealed several den sites were utilised, comprising log piles, rock outcrops (natural), rock boulders (constructed) and ground logs. The most utilised den site recorded comprised a large log pile created from stockpiling of timber from forest clearing. This log pile is about 2-3m in height and comprises extensive tree limbs and trunk bases recovered from tree clearing operations piled on top of each other (refer to Figure 1). This has created a complex structure with many cavities and openings enabling the quoll to shelter within.

______25 June 2018 Forest Fauna Surveys Pty Ltd

Page 2 Spotted-tail Quoll Habitat Enhancement Measures, Mt Owen Complex - 2018

Figure 1. Log pile utilised as Quoll den site, Mt Owen Complex.

Log piles and fallen logs were utilised extensively by the Spotted-tail Quoll. They often utilise these as pathways whilst travelling, and have been recorded moving up to 140m without returning to the ground (Glen and Dickman, 2006).

Another structure created at the Mt Owen Complex is a number of large to very large boulders associated with construction of a heavy vehicle haul road. The large boulders have been piled on top of each other, creating many cavities between each boulder. The large boulders have also been utilised as a latrine location by the quolls (refer to Figure 2 below), whereby they deposit their scats (droppings) at exposed locations on the rock. This behaviour defines an individual’s territory and over time, can result in extensive accumulations of scats.

Figure 2. Constructed rock pile used as Quoll den and latrine site, Mt Owen Complex.

Consistent across all sites mentioned above was the usage of multiple den locations within the individuals home range. Adults generally moved to a new den sites each day, except when a den was used as a maternal den site.

1.3 Stringybark Creek Habitat Corridor Offset

Stringybark Creek Habitat Corridor supports 6 native vegetation types, including Central Hunter Ironbark – Spotted Gum – Grey Box Forest (21.6 ha), Dry Rainforest (4.7 ha), Drainage Flat Red Gum Woodland (1.0 ha), Central Hunter Swamp Oak Forest (0.5 ha) and Derived Native Grassland (58.8). The restoration works recommended for the corridor include planting and natural regeneration of the linear riparian strip along Stringybark Creek, consistent with Central Hunter Swamp Oak

______25 June 2018 Forest Fauna Surveys Pty Ltd

Page 3 Spotted-tail Quoll Habitat Enhancement Measures, Mt Owen Complex - 2018

Forest and Drainage Flat Red Gum Woodland. The remainder of the Stringybark Creek Habitat Corridor is to be restored to Central Hunter Ironbark – Spotted Gum – Grey Box Forest. The works are to include a mix of tree plantings and emplacement of habitat structures such as log piles (Umwelt, 2014).

Stringybark Creek Habitat Corridor ranges in elevation from 140m to 260m ASL, with the western section relatively low lying on alluvial flats, with elevated ridgelines in the east. Small exposed rocky outcrops exist along the elevated ridges, but mostly comprise rounded boulders exposed just above the soil level. Very limited areas with exposed rock faces and complex rock structures (i.e. vertical cliffs and stratified boulders) occur, limiting the potential for caves or similar structures that may be utilised as den sites. The microhabitats include eucalypt forest (mostly regrowth) with scattered older trees with hollows, with low density of ground logs. Extensive areas of Derived Grassland occur.

The site inspection in May 2018 revealed low density of ground logs and rock outcrops that could be utilised by the Spotted- tail Quoll. A small number of large mature habitat trees with hollows were observed (refer to Figure 3 below), which may provide den sites for the species.

Figure 3. Large mature habitat tree with multiple hollows, Stringybark Creek Habitat Corridor. 2.0 HABITAT ENHANCEMENT MEASURES, STRINGYBARK CREEK HABITAT CORRIDOR

To identify suitable areas for habitat restoration / enhancement within Stringybark Creek Habitat Corridor, the offset was visited in May 2018. The offset was inspected on foot searching for suitable locations for installation of habitat features. Where suitable locations were found, the position was recorded by hand held GPS and a photograph taken for reference. A description of each location is presented below in Section 2.5 and suggested works to be undertaken.

______25 June 2018 Forest Fauna Surveys Pty Ltd

Page 4 Spotted-tail Quoll Habitat Enhancement Measures, Mt Owen Complex - 2018

As discussed previously, the Stringybark Creek Habitat Corridor comprises lower elevation alluvial flats in the western section, and elevated steep hills in the eastern section. The majority of remnant native vegetation is located in the eastern section, with the western section devoid of habitat features that may be utilised by the Spotted-tail Quoll. The small ephemeral Stringybark Creek drains west from the elevated hills, and most likely only flowing following heavy rainfall events. No flowing or standing pools of water were evident along the drainage line in May 2018. However, the Upper Hunter is presently experiencing a prolonged drought, which may have influenced the absence of surface water along Stringybark Creek.

Vehicular access occurs along a significant length of Stringybark Creek, although this track is restricted to small light vehicles. This track would require maintenance / improvement to enable larger machinery to access sections of the creek for habitat enhancement works. Such machinery is required for transportation and construction of material to create denning habitat for the Spotted-tail Quoll.

Following is a general description of the materials required and dimensions of habitat features to be constructed along Stringybark Creek Habitat Corridor for the Spotted-tail Quoll.

2.1 Ground Log Piles

The recommended size of ground log piles to be created should closely reflect that already utilised within the Mt Owen Complex. Suitable dimensions for each pile are recommended, being 10m x 10m in area on wide flat land, or 5m x 10m in narrow sections along Stringybark Creek. The minimum height of each pile should be 1.0m, with preference for height about 1.5m. Logs should be stacked on top of lower logs to create gaps / spaces suitable for the Spotted-tail Quoll to enter. Log piles are considered easier to transport and construct compared to rock piles, and are recommended for installation in areas with more difficult access.

2.2 Rock Piles

The issue of access will most likely influence the location of rock piles, due to the weight of the material and machinery required to transport it. Selection of rocks should include a mix of medium to large sized boulders constructed to occupy an area of at least 10m x 10m x 1.0 – 1.5m in height, with sufficiently large gaps and crevices between boulders to enable quolls (and other fauna) to occupy. Sites selected for installation of rock piles were influenced by potential access, but may require confirmation by Mt Owen Complex mining personnel prior to installation.

2.3 Hollow Ground Logs

Hollow ground logs have been identified as important den sites for the Spotted-tail Quoll (Andrew, 2005; Belcher and Darrant, 2006; Glen & Dickman, 2006). Within Mt Owen Complex, the radio-tracked quolls utilised a number of hollow ground logs within their home range. However, use of hollow logs in habitat reconstruction can be problematic depending upon the age and condition of the hollow log. Existing hollow ground logs that naturally occur in remnant forest tend to be of considerable age. Translocating these logs to new locations tend to break them apart when being lifted and transported. A photograph of a good example of a ground log with hollows that is structurally sound and likely to endure transportation is presented below in Figure 4.

______25 June 2018 Forest Fauna Surveys Pty Ltd

Page 5 Spotted-tail Quoll Habitat Enhancement Measures, Mt Owen Complex - 2018

Figure 4.Example of suitable ground log for installation at Stringybark Creek Habitat Corridor.

It must be recognised that the natural distribution of these types of ground logs is limiting within the Mt Owen Complex. However, where these logs occur in areas to be cleared for the mine path, these logs should be salvaged for use in Stringybark Creek Habitat Corridor.

2.4 Polypipe as Hollow Ground Logs

An alternative option to the use of natural hollow ground logs is suggested. In addition to use of rocks and logs as per the BOMP (2018) prescriptions, large diameter polypipe (~200mm diameter or larger) is extensively utilised as part of the mining operation at Mt Owen Complex. This material relatively widespread across the Complex and thereby easy to source. The use of off-cuts or dis-used excess pipe should be trialled for use as surrogate quoll den sites.

This material is attractive for use as hollow ground logs due to its light weight for transportation, durable qualities and similar profile. Lengths of 5 – 8 metres are recommended for placement at ground level. The pipe will require covering along the pipe from one end to the entrance by material such as soil, felled timber or even smaller rocks / boulders (providing the weight of rock material does not damage the pipe). Placement of the pipe must ensure the den end is slightly elevated from the entrance to prevent pooling of water. It may also be possible for installation of polypipe den sites in the elevated eastern parts of Stringybark Creek BOA due to it being easier to transport and install compared to natural tree hollows and ground logs.

Following installation of the constructed den sites, it is recommended that remote cameras be used to monitor selected den sites. Cameras would initially be installed for a period of 6 consecutive months to monitor the habitat structures, then moved

______25 June 2018 Forest Fauna Surveys Pty Ltd

Page 6 Spotted-tail Quoll Habitat Enhancement Measures, Mt Owen Complex - 2018

to additional structures for a further 6 months monitoring. Cameras would be regularly inspected as part of the Mt Owen fauna monitoring program.

2.5 Recommended Locations of Spotted-tail Quoll Habitat Structures

Following is a list of suitable locations for installation of quoll structures. This report recommends a minimum of the following habitat structures:

 3 log structures be installed along Stringybark Creek Habitat Corridor (subject to vehicle / machinery access).  2 rock / boulder structures, either at lower elevation (comprising rocks) or higher elevation (use of polypipe).

A map illustrating potential locations is presented below in Figure 5. A number of optional sites were flagged as potential sites for construction (for instance, Rock_2 to Rock_4). From these 3 sites, only 1 is recommended for construction. The actual location will be influenced by site access for earth moving machinery. Note that an alternative poly-pipe site was identified at higher elevation, subject to site access by machinery.

This report also presents flexibility in the final choice of structure, particularly the rock / boulder sites. The nominated sites can be modified, for example, a log and rock site could be constructed at site Rock_1, due to suitability for both structures and ease of access. Additionally, the nominated sites Rock_2 to Rock_4 could be modified by use of polypipe and rocks in combination, rather than solely using one structure type.

For access to sites Log_1 to Log_3, the existing light vehicle track will require maintenance and upgrade for machinery access. At present, several fallen tree limbs block this track and will require removal. This track also crosses Stringybark Creek at 2 locations. There may be additional works required for erosion and sediment control.

A full description of each site is presented below in Table 1.

______25 June 2018 Forest Fauna Surveys Pty Ltd

Page 7 Spotted-tail Quoll Habitat Enhancement Measures, Mt Owen Complex - 2018

Figure 5. Potential locations of Spotted-tail Quoll habitat structures, Stringybark Creek Habitat Corridor Offset.

Note: The above map only illustrates potential locations. Final site selection may be dependent upon machinery access during construction. Rock boulder sites 2 – 4 are flagged as optional sites, only 1 site is recommended for construction.

______25 June 2018 Forest Fauna Surveys Pty Ltd

Page 8 Spotted-tail Quoll Habitat Enhancement Measures, Mt Owen Complex - 2018

Table 1. Site Description for each potential Quoll habitat structure.

Site Rock_1. Located on alluvial flats of Stringybark Creek (elevation 169m ASL). Terrain is flat and perched above creek bank, limited potential for flooding. Good access and located adjacent to dense stand of riparian vegetation. Choice of Structure: rock pile

Note: Also suitable for log pile should other log pile sites be deemed unsuitable due to access constraints.

Site Log_1. Located upslope of narrow alluvial flats of Stringybark Creek (elevation 177m ASL). Terrain is sloping and located above creek bank to limit potential for flooding. Small rock boulders located further upslope. Access is along narrow light vehicle track requiring upgrade and maintenance for construction. Choice of Structure: Log pile

Site Log_2. Located upslope of narrow alluvial flats of Stringybark Creek (elevation 180m ASL). Terrain is sloping and located above creek bank. Dense stand of remnant and exotic vegetation upslope of site. Access is along narrow light vehicle track requiring upgrade and maintenance for construction. Choice of Structure: Log pile

______25 June 2018 Forest Fauna Surveys Pty Ltd

Page 9 Spotted-tail Quoll Habitat Enhancement Measures, Mt Owen Complex - 2018

Site Log_3. Located upslope of narrow alluvial flats of Stringybark Creek (elevation 189m ASL). Terrain is flat to slight sloping and located above creek bank. Dense stand of remnant and exotic vegetation upslope of site. Access is along narrow light vehicle track requiring upgrade and maintenance for construction. Choice of Structure: Log pile

Optional Structure: polypipe

Site Rock_2. Located upslope of alluvial flats of York’s Creek (elevation 197m ASL). Terrain is sloping with remnant vegetation located upslope. Exposed rock boulders present. Access may be possible across the flats of Yorks Creek from Mt Owen. Choice of Structure: Rock pile

Optional Structure: polypipe / rockpile

Site Rock_3. Located upslope of alluvial flats of York’s Creek (elevation 200m ASL). Terrain is sloping with remnant vegetation located upslope. Exposed rock boulders present. Located to east and upslope of narrow drainage line. Access may be possible across the flats of Yorks Creek from Mt Owen. Choice of Structure: Rock pile

Optional Structure: polypipe / rockpile

______25 June 2018 Forest Fauna Surveys Pty Ltd

Page 10 Spotted-tail Quoll Habitat Enhancement Measures, Mt Owen Complex - 2018

Site Rock_4. Located upslope of alluvial flats of York’s Creek (elevation 204m ASL). Terrain is sloping with remnant vegetation located upslope. Exposed rock boulders present. Access may be possible across the flats of Yorks Creek from Mt Owen. Choice of Structure: Rock pile

Optional Structure: polypipe / rockpile Site Pipe_1. Located on ridgeline on eastern boundary of Stringybark Creek Habitat Corridor (elevation 260m). Access is via steep graded track in good condition. Potential site for location of polypipe structure (subject to Rock_2 to Rock_4 sites being unsuitable). Access restricted to earth moving machinery such as excavators / graders and light vehicles with 4WD.

Choice of Structure: Polypipe No photo.

______25 June 2018 Forest Fauna Surveys Pty Ltd

Page 11 Spotted-tail Quoll Habitat Enhancement Measures, Mt Owen Complex - 2018

3.0 DISCUSSION

Habitat enhancement measures are to implemented for the Spotted-tail Quoll at Stringybark Creek Biodiversity Offset Area (BOA) at the Mt Owen Complex. This report provides recommendations of measures for enhancement of habitat within the Stringybark Creek offset for the species. Analysis of published material on the denning requirements for the Spotted-tail Quoll identified selective use for rocky outcrops with crevices, or hollows in ground logs and standing trees. Within the Stringybark Creek Habitat Corridor, there is limited natural den sites in the form of rocky outcrops with crevices, large mature trees with suitable hollows and ground logs.

Radiotracking work conducted at Mt Owen Complex revealed extensive use of a disused timber pile created by past clearing of forest. This pile was used extensively by 2 males in contrast to relatively high abundance of natural ground logs and tree hollows in standing trees within Ravensworth State Forest. For the creation of den sites within the Stringybark Creek Habitat Corridor, created log piles should replicate a similar structure. It is recommended that 3 log piles be constructed along Stringybark Creek, subject to suitable access. The recommended sizing for each log pile is 10m x 10m x 1.5m high. However, if located along narrow parts of Stringybark Creek, dimensions of 5m x 10m would be suitable.

The radio-tracked quolls at Mt Owen Complex also utilised a large rock pile created by dumping of excavated earth from mining. It is recommended that at least 2 rock piles be created, with the location influenced by ease of access by earth moving machinery. A number of potential sites for creation of rock piles is presented within this report (refer to Figure 4), with the final sites selected following discussion / assessment by Mt Owen Complex mining personnel.

Selection of rocks should include several large boulders (i.e. >1m wide), subject to being capable of transportation. The piles should be constructed so that small to medium sized crevices are created to enable the Spotted-tail Quoll to access for shelter. An alternative material that is widely available within the Mt Owen Complex is polypipe. The pipe could be utilised as the actual den structure, and covered in either timber logs or smaller rocks. This product has the advantage of being light in weight and easily transported, is durable and replicates natural ground logs. It is recommended that at least one structure be trialled at Stringybark Creek Habitat Corridor.

Following installation of the constructed den sites, it is recommended that remote cameras be used to monitor selected den sites. Cameras would initially be installed for a period of 6 consecutive months to monitor the habitat structures, then moved to additional structures for a further 6 months monitoring. Cameras would be regularly inspected as part of the Mt Owen fauna monitoring program.

______25 June 2018 Forest Fauna Surveys Pty Ltd

Page 12 Spotted-tail Quoll Habitat Enhancement Measures, Mt Owen Complex - 2018

4.0 REFERENCES

Andrew, D.L. (2005). Ecology of the Tiger Quoll Dasyurus maculatus maculatus in coastal New South Wales. MSc Thesis, School of Biological Sciences, University of Wollongong.

Belcher, C.A. & Darrant, J.P. (2006). Habitat use by tiger quoll (Dasyurus maculatus) (Marsupialia: Dasyuridae) in south- eastern Australia. Journal of Zoology, 269, 183-190.

Fly By Night Bat Surveys and TUNRA Ltd. (1996). Mount Owen Coal Mine - Wildlife Management Pilot Study. Report to Mount Owen Coal Mine and HLA-Envirosciences Pty Ltd.

Glen, A.S. and Dickman, C.R. (2006). Home range, denning behaviour and microhabitat use of the carnivorous marsupial Dasyurus maculatus in eastern Australia. Journal of Zoology, 268, 347-354

Glencore (2017). Biodiversity and Offset Management Plan. Prepared by Mt Owen Open Cut, Glencore.

Umwelt (2014). Ecological Assessment, Mount Owen Continued Operations Project. Final. October 2014.

Resource Planning (1994). Mount Owen Coal Project Near Ravensworth, New South Wales. Fauna Impact Statement. For Hunter Valley Coal Corporation Pty Limited.

5.0 APPENDIX

name StructureType lat long y_proj x_proj altitude Rock_1 Rock Pile -32.3702 151.0857 6416921 319897.7 169 Log_1 Log Pile -32.3686 151.0869 6417097 320011 177 Log_2 Log Pile -32.3679 151.0875 6417176 320068.2 180 Log_3 Log Pile -32.3676 151.0885 6417209 320161.6 189 Rock_2 Rock Pile -32.3716 151.0896 6416770 320268.6 197 Rock_3 Rock Pile -32.3722 151.0909 6416703 320390.4 200 Rock_4 Rock Pile -32.3731 151.0926 6416608 320553 204 Pipe_1 Pipe -32.3671 151.0944 6417273 320709.2 260

______25 June 2018 Forest Fauna Surveys Pty Ltd

Page 13 Mt. Owen Complex Fauna Monitoring 2018

APPENDIX FOUR – SUMMARY REPORTS, TREE CLEARING

______29 January 2019 Forest Fauna Surveys Pty Ltd 00403.a Page 54

MT OWEN COMPLEX

Pre-clearance Ecological Survey Pit C East

REPORT TO THIESS PTY LIMITED

10 April 2018

Forest Fauna Surveys Pty Ltd

MOC Pit C_East, Pre-clearing Ecological Survey

Mt Owen Complex Pre-clearance Ecological Survey

Report prepared for

Thiess Pty Limited

This report prepared by Michael Murray B.Sc.(Hons) Director Forest Fauna Surveys Pty Ltd

Document History

Document No. Prep. Date Version Checked by Date 00382.a 09.04.2018 Draft v.1 Linda Lunnon 9.04.2018 00382.0 10.04.2018 FINAL M. Murray 10.04.2018

______

10 April 2018 Forest Fauna Surveys Pty Ltd

Document 00382.0 Page i MOC Pit C_East, Pre-clearing Ecological Survey

Table of Contents

1.0 INTRODUCTION ...... 1 1.1 Background ...... 1 2.0 METHODOLOGY ...... 2 3.0 RESULTS ...... 2 3.1 Flora ...... 2 3.2 Fauna ...... 2 3.2.1 Grey-crowned Babbler ...... 3 3.2.2 Squirrel Glider ...... 3 3.2.3 Spotted-tail Quoll ...... 5 3.2.4 Grey-headed Flying-fox, Swift Parrot, Little Lorikeet ...... 5 3.2.5 Microbats (East-coast Freetail-bat, Eastern Bent-wing Bat, Greater Broad-nosed Bat, Southern Myotis) 5 3.3 Habitat Features ...... 6 4.0 DISCUSSION ...... 7 5.0 REFERENCES ...... 7 6.0 APPENDIX ONE – Raw Data ...... 8

Table of Figures

Figure 1. Location of Pit C_east clearing area, Mount Owen Complex ...... 1 Figure 2. Location of Habitat Features, Pit_C_East, Mount Owen Complex ...... 4 Figure 3. Photograph of Grey-crowned Babbler outside active nest, Mount Owen Complex ...... 5

Table of Tables

Table 1. Habitat Tree Data ...... 8 Table 2. Habitat Features Raw Data ...... 8

______

10 April 2018 Forest Fauna Surveys Pty Ltd

Document 00382.0 Page ii MOC Pit C_East, Pre-clearing Ecological Survey

1.0 INTRODUCTION

1.1 Background

Mount Owen Complex will clear of approximately 13.7 hectares [referred to as Pit C_East] as part of extension of the approved North Pit. Within the boundary of the clearing area, two small sedimentation dams and associated access tracks will be constructed. The area to be cleared is located to the east of the existing North Pit operation and south of the Betty’s Creek to Main Creek diversion (refer to Figure 1 below).

Figure 1. Location of Pit C_east clearing area, Mount Owen Complex

Note: date of aerial photograph is June 2016, with clearing now located to the immediate north-west of the highlighted polygon (in yellow).

The pre-clearance area supports a mix of regrowth woodland supporting Spotted Gum Corymbia maculata, Narrow- leaved Ironbark Eucalyptus crebra, Broad-leaved Ironbark E. fibrosa, Grey Box E. moluccana and scattered Bull Oak Casuarina luehmannii, with small areas supporting open grassland.

______

10 April 2018 Forest Fauna Surveys Pty Ltd

Document 00382.0 Page 1 MOC Pit C_East, Pre-clearing Ecological Survey

The scope of this report is to undertake a pre-clearing inspection to identify any ecological issues prior to commencement of clearing works. The Mount Owen Complex Biodiversity and Offset Management Plan (2017) specifies procedures to undertake pre-clearance surveys and tree felling supervision (Section 3.1.2, p. 39).

These prescriptions include the following:  identification of habitat resources,  potential presence of threatened flora and fauna, endangered populations and threatened ecological communities,  identification of threatened species or habitat features that are suitable for translocation or salvage,  disturbance activities should be targeted to specific times of year to minimise impacts to threatened species.

The pre-clearance survey for the area was undertaken on Monday 26 March 2018.

2.0 METHODOLOGY

The pre-clearance search of the area was conducted by walking the area and recording the location of any features as prescribed in the Mount Owen Complex BOMP (Glencore, 2018). Locations were recorded by hand held GPS (Garmin CSx60). Any habitat trees or significant features were marked with fluorescent pink survey tape and paint. Additional features marked include significant ground logs that may provide sheltering habitat for fauna.

3.0 RESULTS

The pre-clearing search of the area located a number of ecological features, including one habitat tree, a number of disused nests of the Grey-crowned Babbler, an area of historically felled timber (possibly an old ironbark tree) with potential for relocation.

3.1 Flora

Historically, the area was former pasture land, with scattered small stands of remnant trees and isolated paddock trees. With extensive grassland dominated by mix of native and introduced grasses (refer to historical aerial photographs dated 1958, Figure 2.2a, page 2.3, Umwelt, 2014). Extensive areas of natural regeneration has occurred, possibly due to exclusion of, or reduced grazing pressure. The pre-clearance area supports a mix of regrowth woodland to approximately 18m in height, supporting Spotted Gum Corymbia maculata, Narrow-leaved Ironbark Eucalyptus crebra, Broad-leaved Ironbark E. fibrosa, Grey Box E. moluccana and scattered Bull Oak Casuarina luehmannii. Understorey vegetation is limited, with a small area of open grassland in the south-eastern part of the study area.

No listed threatened plant species have previously been located in the pre-clearance study area. Mapping of vegetation communities within the Mount Owen Complex (Umwelt, 2014) identified the pre-clearing area supporting Central Hunter Ironbark – Spotted Gum – Grey Box Forest, which is an endangered ecological community listed on the Biodiversity Conservation Act 2016 (Umwelt, 2014). The loss of this EEC community was approved for the mine expansion, with a number of biodiversity offsets purchased to compensate the clearing of this community.

3.2 Fauna

One threatened fauna species was recorded during the inspection on 26 March 2018, the Grey-crowned Babbler. One individual bird, plus 7 abandoned nests of the species were located in the pre-clearance study area. A number of

______

10 April 2018 Forest Fauna Surveys Pty Ltd

Document 00382.0 Page 2 MOC Pit C_East, Pre-clearing Ecological Survey additional threatened fauna may occur within the pre-clearing area, such as birds and microbats. No habitat for the endangered Green & Golden Bell Frog occurs within the study area.

3.2.1 Grey-crowned Babbler

An individual Grey-crowned Babbler Pomatostomus temporalis was observed within the pre-clearing area, and there are a number of records of the species in the immediate area. The species is widespread within the Mount Owen Complex, recorded in both remnant forest and also revegetation and rehabilitation offset areas.

The threatened species profile prepared for the Grey-crowned Babbler includes the following: The Grey-crowned Babbler builds and maintains several conspicuous, dome-shaped stick nests about the size of a football. A nest is used as a dormitory for roosting each night. Nests are usually located in shrubs or sapling eucalypts, although they may be built in the outermost leaves of low branches of large eucalypts. Nests are maintained year round, and old nests are often dismantled to build new ones. The Grey-crowned Babbler breeds between July and February (OEH, November 2015).

Based on the presence of old disused nest sites within the pre-clearing area, it is recommended that the trees containing the disused nests be removed and placed on the ground outside of the clearing area. Due to the small size of the trees, predominantly Bulloak trees to about 4-5m in height, and less than 20cm dbh, their removal and transportation is not considered to present a significant logistical exercise.

The location of the disused nests is presented below in Figure 2. A photograph of a Grey-crowned Babbler outside an active nest is presented in Figure 3 to illustrate the appearance of the species and structure of a typical nest. Please note that this photograph was not taken within the pre-clearing area.

Additional threatened fauna species that could occur within the PitC_East pre-clearing area are discussed further.

3.2.2 Squirrel Glider

The Squirrel Glider has been recorded in the immediate area by inspection of installed nest boxes. Within the pre-clearing area, there are no nest boxes specific to the species, and only one habitat tree was located on the southern boundary. However, this habitat tree is not suitable for the Squirrel Glider, as the size of the opening and shape of the hollow is too large for the species. The habitat assessment did not identify any natural roost sites for the species to indicate presence of any resident Squirrel Gliders. It is therefore considered no specific clearing prescriptions are required for the Squirrel Glider within the pre-clearing area.

______

10 April 2018 Forest Fauna Surveys Pty Ltd

Document 00382.0 Page 3 MOC Pit C_East, Pre-clearing Ecological Survey

Figure 2. Location of Habitat Features, Pit_C_East, Mount Owen Complex

______

10 April 2018 Forest Fauna Surveys Pty Ltd

Document 00382.0 Page 4 MOC Pit C_East, Pre-clearing Ecological Survey

Figure 3. Photograph of Grey-crowned Babbler outside active nest, Mount Owen Complex

3.2.3 Spotted-tail Quoll

The Spotted-tail Quoll has been periodically detected across the Complex since commencement of monitoring in 1995. Radio-tracking studies conducted by Forest Fauna Surveys PL in 2013-2014 revealed that individuals range widely across the landscape, and even recorded in the active mine void.

Within the pre-clearing area, no suitable habitat structures that may provide sheltering sites for the Spotted-tail Quoll were identified. Despite the absence of suitable structures, the tree clearing prescriptions will be followed. Any tree material that is in suitable condition following disturbance will be relocated to offset or rehabilitation areas and placed on the ground to provide potential sheltering sites for the Spotted-tail Quoll.

3.2.4 Grey-headed Flying-fox, Swift Parrot, Little Lorikeet

Clearing of 13.7 hectares of regrowth woodland will remove foraging resources (flowering trees) for the Grey-headed Flying-fox, Swift Parrot and Little Lorikeet. The pre-clearance surveys and tree felling prescriptions are not considered applicable for the above mentioned threatened fauna species as the only impact is loss of foraging habitat (flowering trees).

3.2.5 Microbats (East-coast Freetail-bat, Eastern Bent-wing Bat, Greater Broad-nosed Bat, Southern Myotis)

Several species of threatened microbats have been recorded in the immediately adjacent woodland. Several of these species utilise tree hollows for diurnal roosts and also breeding sites. Only one habitat tree was located within the pre- clearing area, but this was identified as unsuitable for occupation by threatened microbats. Two microbat nest boxes are located within the pre-clearing area and will require removal prior to commencement of clearing. However, it must be

______

10 April 2018 Forest Fauna Surveys Pty Ltd

Document 00382.0 Page 5 MOC Pit C_East, Pre-clearing Ecological Survey noted that both boxes are in poor condition due to age and weathering and termite attack, and unlikely to provide roost habitat for those microbat species.

Relocation of habitat resources is not considered applicable to threatened microbats, for a number of reasons. The one habitat tree located within the pre-clearing area is very old and brittle, which will likely disintegrate during tree felling. However, the dead timber could be utilised for ground microhabitat as per the clearing prescriptions outlined in the BOMP.

3.3 Habitat Features

The area of the PitC_East pre-clearing area has a paucity of ground habitat features, with only one habitat tree within the 13.7 hectare area. This habitat tree is an old dead stag about 6.0m in height, with a medium to large vertical hollow in the main trunk of the tree. This hollow is full of dead material from termite attack, and the condition of the tree is poor, which is likely to break up during the tree felling operation. The hollow section is unlikely to survive for reclamation. However, the dead timber may be suitable for relocation on the ground to provide microhabitat for invertebrates and small vertebrates such as skinks and small terrestrial mammals.

Three areas with ground logs suitable for relocation were located within the area. The ground logs occur due to past logging activities, with sections of cut timber. These logs are in a condition suitable for relocation to the offset or rehabilitation areas for placement on the ground.

As indicated above, 7 small Bulloak trees contain dis-used nests of the Grey-crowned Babbler. It is recommended that these trees be felled and placed on the ground outside of the clearing area boundary. Resident Grey-crowned Babblers may recycle the stick material comprising the dis-used nests for future nest construction.

Two microbat nest boxes are located within the pre-clearing area and require removal prior to clearing. However, there has been no evidence of use of these boxes by microbats, and they are in various degrees of decay due to age and termite attack. It is recommended the boxes be removed for inspection to ensure no resident microbats, but not re-installed in either the offset or rehabilitation areas due to their poor condition.

______

10 April 2018 Forest Fauna Surveys Pty Ltd

Document 00382.0 Page 6 MOC Pit C_East, Pre-clearing Ecological Survey

4.0 DISCUSSION

The pre-clearing search of Pit C_East area located a number of ecological features, including one habitat tree, three areas of ground logs, two microbat nest boxes and 7 trees with dis-used nests of the Grey-crowned Babbler.

One threatened fauna species was recorded during the inspection, an individual Grey-crowned Babbler. A number of additional threatened fauna species have been recorded adjacent to the pre-clearing area, including Squirrel Glider, Little Lorikeet, Swift Parrot, Grey-headed Flying-fox, Spotted-tail Quoll and several microbat species. The clearing of habitat will not impact upon any of the additional threatened fauna species that could potentially occur within the pre-clearing area.

The clearing prescriptions outlined in the Mount Owen Complex Biodiversity Offset Management Plan will address the requirements for several of the species of threatened fauna known, or considered likely to occur. There is no prescription for amelioration of impact for the Grey-crowned Babbler within the BOMP. However, the ameliorative actions described above for this species can easily be undertaken to offset the loss of habitat for this species.

5.0 REFERENCES

Glencore (2017). Mt Owen Open Cut Biodiversity and Offset Management Plan. Version 1.0, dated 11 July 2017.

OEH (2015). Grey-crowned Babbler Threatened Species Profile. Last updated 15 November 2015. http://www.environment.nsw.gov.au/threatenedspeciesapp/profile.aspx?id=10660.

Umwelt (2014). Ecological Assessment, Mount Owen Continued Operations Project. Appendix 11 – Ecological Assessment. Prepared for Glencore by Umwelt (Australia) Pty Limited.

______

10 April 2018 Forest Fauna Surveys Pty Ltd

Document 00382.0 Page 7 MOC Pit C_East, Pre-clearing Ecological Survey

6.0 APPENDIX ONE – Raw Data

Table 1. Habitat Tree Data DBH Height Major Minor Trunk Total ID Tree Species % Dead (cm) (m) Hollows Hollows Hollows Ht01 Dead Stag 100 70 6 1 1 Easting GDA94 323737.709 Northing GDA94 6411862.386 Latitude -32.41639671 Longitude 151.12553062

Table 2. Habitat Features Raw Data

Habitat Feature x_proj y_proj lat long date altitude Babbler nest_1 323690.6 6412262 -32.4128 151.1251 27/03/2018 134 Babbler nest_2 323804.4 6411908 -32.416 151.1262 27/03/2018 115 Babbler nest_3 323780.9 6411918 -32.4159 151.126 27/03/2018 116 Babbler nest_4 323722.5 6411914 -32.4159 151.1254 27/03/2018 121 Babbler nest_5 323882.2 6412161 -32.4137 151.1271 27/03/2018 133 Babbler nest_6 323873.4 6412341 -32.4121 151.1271 27/03/2018 130 Babbler nest_7 323683.9 6412246 -32.4129 151.125 27/03/2018 135 Grey-crowned Babbler 323702.3 6412373 -32.4118 151.1252 27/03/2018 127 Habitat Tree_1 323737.7 6411862 -32.4164 151.1255 27/03/2018 117 Log_1 323660 6412068 -32.4145 151.1247 27/03/2018 121 Log_2 323652 6411890 -32.4161 151.1246 27/03/2018 122 Log_3 323895.4 6412172 -32.4136 151.1273 27/03/2018 133 ER041 nestbox 323692.9 6412153 -32.4138 151.1251 27/03/2018 127 ER042 nestbox 323705.6 6412157 -32.4137 151.1252 27/03/2018 128

______

10 April 2018 Forest Fauna Surveys Pty Ltd

Document 00382.0 Page 8

MT OWEN COMPLEX

Pre-clearance Ecological Survey Pit-C Strip_10

REPORT TO THIESS PTY LIMITED

8 August 2018

Forest Fauna Surveys Pty Ltd

MOC Pit C Strip_10 Pre-clearing Ecological Survey

Mt Owen Complex Pre-clearance Ecological Survey Pit-C Strip_10

Report prepared for

Thiess Pty Limited

This report prepared by Michael Murray B.Sc.(Hons) Director Forest Fauna Surveys Pty Ltd ABN: 17 082 708 521 51 Sheridan Avenue Adamstown Heights NSW 2289 0429 460 081 [email protected]

Document History

Document No. Prep. Date Version Checked by Date 00390.a 30 May 2018 Draft v.1 L. Lunnon 06.06.2018 00390.0 8 August 2018 Final draft L. Lunnon 8.08.2018 00390.1 8 August 2018 FINAL

______

8 August 2018 Forest Fauna Surveys Pty Ltd

Document 00390.1 Page i MOC Pit C Strip_10 Pre-clearing Ecological Survey

Table of Contents

1.0 INTRODUCTION ...... 3 1.1 Background ...... 3 2.0 METHODOLOGY ...... 4 3.0 RESULTS ...... 4 3.1 Flora ...... 4 3.2 Fauna ...... 4 3.2.1 Grey-crowned Babbler ...... 5 3.2.2 Spotted Harrier ...... 7 3.2.3 Squirrel Glider ...... 7 3.2.4 Brush-tailed Phascogale ...... 7 3.2.5 Eastern Freetail Bat ...... 8 3.2.6 Spotted-tail Quoll ...... 8 3.2.7 Grey-headed Flying-fox, Swift Parrot, Little Lorikeet ...... 8 3.3 Habitat Features ...... 9 3.4 Tree Felling Operation ...... 9 4.0 DISCUSSION ...... 11 5.0 REFERENCES ...... 11 6.0 APPENDIX ONE – Raw Data ...... 12

Table of Figures

Figure 1. Location of Pit C Strip_10 pre-clearing area, Mt Owen Complex ...... 3 Figure 2. Location of Habitat Features, Pit C Strip 10, Mt Owen Complex ...... 6 Figure 3. Photograph of Grey-crowned Babbler nest, Mt Owen Complex ...... 7 Figure 4. Example of ground log suitable for Spotted-tail Quoll, Mt Owen Complex ...... 8

Table of Tables

Table 1. List of Fauna Species Recovered from felled Habitat Tree Hollows ...... 10 Table 2. Habitat Features Raw Data ...... 13

______

8 August 2018 Forest Fauna Surveys Pty Ltd

Document 00390.1 Page ii MOC Pit C Strip_10 Pre-clearing Ecological Survey

1.0 INTRODUCTION

1.1 Background

Mount Owen Complex have cleared parts of Pit C Strip_10 as an extension of the approved North Pit. The cleared area is located to the south and east of the existing North Pit operation (refer to Figure 1 below).

Figure 1. Location of Pit C Strip_10 pre-clearing area, Mt Owen Complex

Note: date of aerial photograph is June 2016.

The pre-clearance area supports a mix of regrowth woodland supporting Spotted Gum Corymbia maculata, Narrow- leaved Ironbark Eucalyptus crebra, Broad-leaved Ironbark E. fibrosa, Grey Box E. moluccana and scattered Bull Oak Casuarina luehmannii, with small areas supporting open grassland. Parts of the area were also planted in 1996 for establishment of a southern corridor. Additional species planted in these areas include Prickly-leaved Paperbark Melaleuca stypheloides.

The scope of this report is to undertake a pre-clearing inspection to identify any ecological issues prior to commencement of clearing works, and details of tree hollow inspections following clearing of habitat trees located in the study area.

The Mount Owen Complex Biodiversity and Offset Management Plan (2017) specifies procedures to undertake pre- clearance surveys and tree felling supervision (Section 3.1.2, p. 39).

These prescriptions include the following:  identification of habitat resources,  potential presence of threatened flora and fauna, endangered populations and threatened ecological communities,  identification of threatened species or habitat features that are suitable for translocation or salvage,  disturbance activities should be targeted to specific times of year to minimise impacts to threatened species.

______

8 August 2018 Forest Fauna Surveys Pty Ltd

Document 00390.1 Page 3 MOC Pit C Strip_10 Pre-clearing Ecological Survey

The pre-clearance survey for the area was undertaken on Monday 28 May 2018, with clearing of habitat trees on 6 June and 8 August 2018.

2.0 METHODOLOGY

The pre-clearance search of the area was conducted by walking the area and recording the location of any features as prescribed in the Mount Owen Complex BOMP (Glencore, 2018). Locations were recorded by hand held GPS (Garmin CSx60). Any habitat trees or significant features were marked with fluorescent pink survey tape and paint. Additional features marked include significant ground logs that may provide sheltering habitat for fauna.

During the clearing phase of this project, all non-habitat trees were felled and pushed into windrows, leaving only the habitat trees standing. The habitat trees were felled in June (1 tree) and 8 August 2018 (19 trees). Once trees were felled, all hollows were visually inspected for presence of sheltering fauna. Searches were made in tree hollows using a 1,000 lumen torch, and a visual inspection of any broken hollow sections that came away from the habitat tree, and were found lying on the ground.

3.0 RESULTS

The pre-clearing search of the area located a number of ecological features, including 20 habitat trees, eight disused nests of the Grey-crowned Babbler, eight nest boxes for Squirrel Glider and 1 microbat box, ground logs and a small pile of rocks which have potential for relocation into the rehabilitation areas.

3.1 Flora

The Pit C extension area comprises a mix of former pasture land with scattered small stands of remnant trees and isolated paddock trees. In the current Strip 10 section, many of larger habitat trees are located along former stock fence lines. These trees are very mature in age with extensive diameters (i.e. > 100cm dbh) and greater than 25m in height. Areas of natural regeneration have occurred, in addition to plantings undertaken by Mt Owen Mine in 1996 to establish a southern vegetation corridor.

The pre-clearance area supports a mix of regrowth woodland to approximately 20m in height, supporting Spotted Gum Corymbia maculata, Narrow-leaved Ironbark Eucalyptus crebra, Broad-leaved Ironbark E. fibrosa, Grey Box E. moluccana and scattered Bull Oak Casuarina luehmannii. Additional species planted in these areas include Prickly-leaved Paperbark Melaleuca stypheloides. Understorey vegetation is limited apart from the planted areas, with small areas of open grassland.

No listed threatened plant species have previously been located in the pre-clearance study area. Mapping of vegetation communities within the Mount Owen Complex (Umwelt, 2014) identified the pre-clearing area supporting Central Hunter Ironbark – Spotted Gum – Grey Box Forest, which is an endangered ecological community listed on the Biodiversity Conservation Act 2016 (Umwelt, 2014). The loss of this EEC community was approved for the mine expansion, with a number of biodiversity offsets purchased to compensate the clearing of this community.

3.2 Fauna

Five threatened fauna species were recorded in the clearing area during the inspection on 28 May 2018, and relocation of the nest boxes on 6 June 2018. Those threatened fauna species include the Grey-crowned Babbler, Spotted Harrier,

______

8 August 2018 Forest Fauna Surveys Pty Ltd

Document 00390.1 Page 4 MOC Pit C Strip_10 Pre-clearing Ecological Survey

Squirrel Glider and Eastern Freetail Bat. No habitat for the endangered Green & Golden Bell Frog occurs within the study area.

3.2.1 Grey-crowned Babbler

A small group of 4 Grey-crowned Babblers Pomatostomus temporalis were observed, along with a number of disused nests within the pre-clearing area. The species is widespread and abundant within the Mount Owen Complex, recorded in both remnant forest and also revegetation and rehabilitation offset areas.

The threatened species profile prepared for the Grey-crowned Babbler includes the following: The Grey-crowned Babbler builds and maintains several conspicuous, dome-shaped stick nests about the size of a football. A nest is used as a dormitory for roosting each night. Nests are usually located in shrubs or sapling eucalypts, although they may be built in the outermost leaves of low branches of large eucalypts. Nests are maintained year round, and old nests are often dismantled to build new ones. The Grey-crowned Babbler breeds between July and February (OEH, November 2015).

Based on the presence of old disused nest sites within the pre-clearing area, it is recommended that the trees containing the disused nests be removed and placed on the ground outside of the clearing area. Due to the small size of the trees, predominantly Bulloak trees to about 4-5m in height, and less than 20cm dbh, their removal and transportation is not considered to present a significant logistical exercise.

The location of the disused nests is presented below in Figure 2 and a photograph of a disused babbler nest is presented in Figure 3.

______

8 August 2018 Forest Fauna Surveys Pty Ltd

Document 00390.1 Page 5 MOC Pit C Strip_10 Pre-clearing Ecological Survey

Figure 2. Location of Habitat Features, Pit C Strip 10, Mt Owen Complex

______

8 August 2018 Forest Fauna Surveys Pty Ltd

Document 00390.1

Page 6 MOC Pit C Strip_10 Pre-clearing Ecological Survey

Figure 3. Photograph of Grey-crowned Babbler nest, Mt Owen Complex

3.2.2 Spotted Harrier

A solitary Spotted Harrier was observed flying through the pre-clearing area. The species has been very infrequently recorded within the Mt Owen lease area since commencement of monitoring in 1996. No nests of the species were observed within the pre-clearing area. Consequently, there is no requirement for any clearing prescriptions applicable to the species.

3.2.3 Squirrel Glider

The Squirrel Glider has been recorded in the immediate area by inspection of installed nest boxes. Within the pre-clearing area, there are 8 nest boxes specific to the species, and 20 habitat trees were located. Clearing prescriptions for the Squirrel Glider are specified within the Mt Owen BOMP. Removal of nest boxes will also limit their occupation within the pre-clearing area. Three Squirrel Gliders were found in nest boxes during their removal in June 2018. The gliders and their boxes were relocated outside of the clearing area (1 box with 2 individuals) and the remaining box with 1 individual was relocated in the adjacent biodiversity offset area.

3.2.4 Brush-tailed Phascogale

One glider style box located in the Strip_10 pre-clearing area was identified in 2017 as being utilised by the Brush-tailed Phascogale. Clearing prescriptions similar to the Squirrel Glider will also apply to this species, and measures to minimise the impact of clearing include removal of the installed boxes suitable for the species. Inspections of felled habitat trees will also identify any presence of the species within the area. No individuals were located in nest boxes during the relocation in early June 2018.

______

8 August 2018 Forest Fauna Surveys Pty Ltd

Document 00390.1 Page 7 MOC Pit C Strip_10 Pre-clearing Ecological Survey

3.2.5 Eastern Freetail Bat

The Eastern Freetail Bat is a widespread and abundant threatened microbat at the Mt Owen Complex. The species utilises nest boxes installed in the Complex, and one box located within Strip 10 has previously recorded the species occupying this box for an extended period of time. During the relocation of the box on 6 June 2018, 6 individuals were observed in the box. The box was relocated to the adjoining biodiversity offset area and re-installed on a tree at a height of 3m.

3.2.6 Spotted-tail Quoll

The Spotted-tail Quoll has been periodically detected across the Complex since commencement of monitoring in 1995. Radio-tracking studies conducted by Forest Fauna Surveys PL in 2013-2014 revealed that individuals range widely across the landscape, and even recorded in the active mine void.

Within the pre-clearing area, suitable habitat structures exist that may provide sheltering sites for the Spotted-tail Quoll. These structures include ground logs and habitat trees with large hollows. Measures to minimise the impact of clearing on the species include the tree clearing prescriptions outlined in the current BOMP. Any tree material that is in suitable condition following disturbance will be relocated to offset or rehabilitation areas and placed on the ground to provide potential sheltering sites for the Spotted-tail Quoll. For example, below in Figure 4 is an example of suitable ground log for the Spotted-tail Quoll.

Figure 4. Example of ground log suitable for Spotted-tail Quoll, Mt Owen Complex

3.2.7 Grey-headed Flying-fox, Swift Parrot, Little Lorikeet

Clearing of 30.25 hectares of regrowth woodland will remove foraging resources (flowering trees) for the Grey-headed Flying-fox, Swift Parrot and Little Lorikeet. The pre-clearance surveys and tree felling prescriptions are not considered

______

8 August 2018 Forest Fauna Surveys Pty Ltd

Document 00390.1 Page 8 MOC Pit C Strip_10 Pre-clearing Ecological Survey

applicable for the above mentioned threatened fauna species as the only impact is loss of foraging habitat (flowering trees).

3.3 Habitat Features

The area of the Pit-C Strip_10 pre-clearing area has a paucity of ground habitat features over most of the area. However, there are several locations where suitable ground logs exist that may be suitable for reclamation works in the rehabilitation areas of the Complex. Some of the larger sized ground logs occur due to past logging and firewood collection activities, several with sections of cut timber. These logs are in a condition suitable for relocation to the offset or rehabilitation areas for placement on the ground.

Twenty habitat trees occur within the 30.25 hectares, mostly restricted to the central part of the pre-clearing area. These habitat trees comprise mostly very mature remnant trees, some up to 25m in height. The habitat trees contain a range of different sized and type of hollows, providing sheltering habitat for a range of tree hollow dependent fauna. A description of each habitat tree is presented in Appendix 1.

Several of the larger trees were in good condition following felling, and are suitable for salvage and placed in the rehabilitation areas. Whilst several trees disintegrated upon impact once felled, several were relatively intact.

Eight small trees contain dis-used nests of the Grey-crowned Babbler. It is recommended that these trees be felled and placed on the ground outside of the clearing area boundary. Resident Grey-crowned Babblers may recycle the stick material comprising the dis-used nests for future nest construction.

3.4 Tree Felling Operation

Habitat trees were felled in June and August 2018. The one habitat tree in Strip 10_W (HT20 – refer to Appendix One) was felled in July 2018 with 1 Common Brushtail Possum found in a hollow. The individual was not injured and remained in the hollow. This tree was left on the ground for 24 hours to enable the possum to depart, then removed from the clearing area. Nineteen habitat trees in Strip 10_East were felled on 6 August 2018 (refer to HT1–HT19 in Appendix 1).

Nine individuals of two fauna species were recovered from the habitat tree hollows. A summary of the fauna recovered is presented below in Table 1.

______

8 August 2018 Forest Fauna Surveys Pty Ltd

Document 00390.1 Page 9 MOC Pit C Strip_10 Pre-clearing Ecological Survey

Table 1. List of Fauna Species Recovered from felled Habitat Tree Hollows

Habitat Tree ID Fauna Species Recovered Action Required HT04 Common Brushtail Possum Left in situ, healthy condition HT06 Lace Monitor Relocated to HT23 (outside clearing area) HT11 Common Brushtail Possum Left in situ, healthy condition HT15 Common Brushtail Possum Left in situ, healthy condition HT16 Lace Monitor (x2) Relocated to habitat tree outside clearing area HT19 Common Brushtail Possum Left in situ, healthy condition HT20 Lace Monitor Relocated to habitat tree outside clearing area HT22 Common Brushtail Possum Left in situ, healthy condition

The Lace Monitors were removed from the tree hollows due to ease of removal and relocated to habitat trees outside of the Strip 10 clearing area. All four individuals were uninjured following the felling the habitat trees. Five Common Brushtail Possum were found in hollows within the felled habitat trees. All the individuals were in good condition, but could not be removed due to the depth of the hollows inhibiting access. These trees were left undisturbed for 24 hours to enable the possums to depart the hollows and relocate into the adjoining forest.

A number of the felled habitat trees were in good condition and suitable for relocation to rehabilitation areas for installation as standing habitat trees.

______

8 August 2018 Forest Fauna Surveys Pty Ltd

Document 00390.1 Page 10 MOC Pit C Strip_10 Pre-clearing Ecological Survey

4.0 DISCUSSION

The pre-clearing search of the Pit-C Strip_10 area located a number of ecological features, including 20 habitat tree, areas of ground logs suitable for relocation, one microbat and 8 glider style boxes, and 8 trees with dis-used nests of the Grey- crowned Babbler.

Two threatened fauna species were recorded during the inspection, a small group of Grey-crowned Babblers and a Spotted Harrier was observed flying overhead. During the nest box relocation, 3 Squirrel Gliders were found in 2 nest boxes, and several individuals of the Eastern Freetail Bat were in residence in the installed bat box. The boxes with the individuals were relocated to the adjoining biodiversity offset area and will continue to be monitored as part of the Mt Owen Complex fauna monitoring program.

The clearing prescriptions outlined in the Mount Owen Complex Biodiversity Offset Management Plan will address the requirements for several of the species of threatened fauna known, or considered likely to occur. There is no prescription for amelioration of impact for the Grey-crowned Babbler within the BOMP. However, the ameliorative actions described above for this species can easily be undertaken to offset the loss of habitat for this species.

The felling of the habitat trees was conducted in June and August 2018. A total of 9 individuals belonging to 2 fauna groups were found in residence in the hollows, the Common Brushtail Possum (x5) and Lace Monitor (x 4). All the individuals appeared uninjured following the felling operation, and the Lace Monitors were relocated out of the clearing area. The Common Brushtail Possums were left in the tree hollows and the trees were undisturbed for 24 hours to enable the possums to disperse into adjoining forested areas.

5.0 REFERENCES

Glencore (2017). Mt Owen Open Cut Biodiversity and Offset Management Plan. Version 1.0, dated 11 July 2017.

OEH (2015). Grey-crowned Babbler Threatened Species Profile. Last updated 15 November 2015. http://www.environment.nsw.gov.au/threatenedspeciesapp/profile.aspx?id=10660.

Umwelt (2014). Ecological Assessment, Mount Owen Continued Operations Project. Appendix 11 – Ecological Assessment. Prepared for Glencore by Umwelt (Australia) Pty Limited.

______

8 August 2018 Forest Fauna Surveys Pty Ltd

Document 00390.1 Page 11 MOC Pit C Strip_10 Pre-clearing Ecological Survey

6.0 APPENDIX ONE – Raw Data DBH Height Major Minor Trunk ID Tree Species x_proj y_proj % dead cm m Spout Spout Hollow Total Notes Ht01 Dead Stag 323257.5 6412109.9 100 70 10 8 8 Ht02 Corymbia maculata 323245.06 6412089.8 10 100 20 6 6 Ht03 Corymbia maculata 323251.5 6412034 20 100 20 5 5 Ht04 Dead Stag 323242.56 6412026.2 100 80 16 2 3 5 Common Brushtail Possum present Ht05 Corymbia maculata 323234.74 6412035.8 10 80 20 1 small 1 Ht06 Dead Stag 323233.52 6412036.6 100 60 8 1 medium 1 Lace Monitor present Ht07 Corymbia maculata 323235.87 6412039.2 70 60 16 4 4 lots of ground logs in this area Ht08 Eucalyptus fibrosa 323235.34 6412012.8 50 60 16 4 4 Ht09 Corymbia maculata 323201.97 6411950.8 30 120 25 3 3 Common Brushtail Possum present Ht10 Corymbia maculata 323200.56 6411949.5 10 50 20 3 3 Ht11 Corymbia maculata 323160.7 6411943.3 10 120 25 2 2 HT12 Corymbia maculata 323126.9 6411944. 30 100 25 6 6 Good ground logs in area Ht13 Corymbia maculata 323082.38 6411942.3 20 100 25 3 medium 3 Common Brushtail Possum present Ht14 Corymbia maculata 323058.37 6411940.5 80 100 20 2 1 vlvp 3 2 x Lace Monitor present Ht15 Dead Stag 323048.74 6411947.9 100 60 10 1 svp 1 small vertical pipe Ht16 Corymbia maculata 322996.62 6411937.8 20 80 20 2 1 1 vlvp 1 very large vertical pipe in trunk Ht17 Eucalyptus crebra 322950.63 6411934.9 20 90 20 2 2 4 Common Brushtail Possum present Ht18 Corymbia maculata 322930.56 6411939.3 20 90 20 2 2 Lace Monitor present Ht19 Corymbia maculata 322900.72 6411935.8 30 100 20 1 vlvp 1 1 very large vertical pipe in trunk Ht20 Eucalyptus crebra 322487.08 6411651.5 30 120 25 2 1 vlvp 3 Common Brushtail Possum present Log Ground Log 323605.18 6412439.4 Log1 Ground Log 323000 6411794.7 Log2 Ground Log 323235.87 6412039.2 Log3 Ground Log 323126.97 6411944.3 Log 4 Ground Log 322996.62 6411937.8 Rocks Rocks 323168.71 6412033.4

______

8 August 2018 Forest Fauna Surveys Pty Ltd

Document 00390.1

Page 12 MOC Pit C Strip_10 Pre-clearing Ecological Survey

Table 2. Habitat Features Raw Data

Feature X Y Lat long Babbnest1 323667.5 6412243 -32.4129 151.1249 Babbnest2 323669.1 6412222 -32.4131 151.1249 Babbnest3 323331.7 6412073 -32.4144 151.1213 Babbnest4 323302 6412008 -32.415 151.1209 Babbnest5 322722.2 6411798 -32.4168 151.1147 Babbnest6 322741.9 6411783 -32.417 151.1149 Babbnest7 322755.9 6411734 -32.4174 151.1151 Babbnest8 322949 6411788 -32.4169 151.1171 BatboxER026 323294.4191 6411994 -32.4151 151.1208 Glider Box 1 323533.4091 6412376 -32.4117 151.1235 Glider Box 2 323541.8484 6412401 -32.4115 151.1235 Glider Box 3 323573.6739 6412320 -32.4122 151.1239 Glider Box 4 323438.0594 6412234 -32.413 151.1224 Glider Box 5 322841.4984 6411861 -32.4163 151.116 Glider Box 6 322683.3594 6411825 -32.4166 151.1143 Glider Box 7 322561.1463 6411579 -32.4188 151.113 Glider Box 8 323502.8622 6412303 -32.4124 151.1231

______

8 August 2018 Forest Fauna Surveys Pty Ltd

Document 00390.1

Page 13