Mesa H Level 2 Fauna Assessment May 2016

Prepared for Robe River Mining Co. Pty Ltd

Report Reference: 14269-16-BISR-3Rev0_170726

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Mesa H Level 2 Fauna Assessment

Prepared for Robe River Mining Co. Pty Ltd

Job Number: 14269-16

Reference: 14269-16-BISR-3Rev0_170726

Revision Status

Rev Date Description Author(s) Reviewer J. Trainer A 15/08/2016 Draft Issued for Client Review J. Oates R. Archibald D. Harms J. Trainer B 16/02/2017 Draft Issued for Client Review R. Archibald D. Harms J. Trainer 0 26/07/2017 Final Issued for Information R. Archibald D. Harms

Approval

Rev Date Issued to Authorised by

Name Signature

A 15/08/2016 P. Royce S. Pearse

B 16/02/2017 M. Brand S. Pearse

0 26/07/2017 M. Brand S. Pearse

© Copyright 2017 Astron Environmental Services Pty Ltd. All rights reserved. This document and information contained in it has been prepared by Astron Environmental Services under the terms and conditions of its contract with its client. The report is for the clients use only and may not be used, exploited, copied, duplicated or reproduced in any form or medium whatsoever without the prior written permission of Astron Environmental Services or its client. Robe River Mining Co. Pty Ltd Mesa H – Level 2 Fauna Assessment, May 2016 Abbreviations

Abbreviation Definition ANOSIM Analysis of Similarity Bat Call WA Bat Call WA Pty Ltd Biota Biota Environmental Sciences BOM Bureau of Meteorology DEC Department of Environment and Conservation (now DER and Parks and Wildlife) EN Endangered EPA Environmental Protection Authority (State) EPBC Act Environment Protection and Biodiversity Conservation Act 1999 (Commonwealth) ESA Environmentally Sensitive Areas GDA94 Geocentric Datum of Australia 1994 IBRA Interim Biogeographic Regionalisation for Australia Mi Migratory MNES Matters of National Environmental Significance (under the EPBC Act) Parks and Wildlife Department of Parks and Wildlife (State) PEC Priority Ecological Community sp. Species (singular) SRE Short Range Endemic TEC Threatened Ecological Community The ‘survey area’ Mesa H survey area (4,930 ha) VU Vulnerable WA Western Australia WC Act Wildlife Conservation Act 1950 (State) WAM Western Australian Museum

Page | ii Robe River Mining Co. Pty Ltd Mesa H – Level 2 Fauna Assessment, May 2016 Executive Summary

Rio Tinto on behalf of Robe River Mining Co. Pty. Ltd is evaluating the potential development of the Mesa H deposit located adjacent to the Mesa J Operation and approximately 13 kilometres to the south-west of the town of Pannawonica. Astron Environmental Services has been commissioned to undertake a two-phase Level 2 vertebrate and Short Range Endemic invertebrate fauna assessment in the Mesa H survey area which is approximately 4,930 hectares in size.

Vertebrate Fauna

Seven broad fauna habitat types were recorded in the survey area: Riverine, Drainage Line, Gorge, Breakaway, Rocky Hills, Low Hills and Slopes, and Loamy/Stony Plain. Areas of disturbed habitat were prevalent in the Low Slopes and Hills habitats on the top of Mesa H and the Loamy/Stony Plains habitat in the form of drill pads and associated tracks. The Gorge, Riverine and Breakaway habitats in the survey area are considered important for fauna due to the microhabitats they provide such as caves and water pools. The Gorges and Breakaways in particular contain a high diversity of microhabitats; it represents an important site of refuge due to its location close to the Robe River and as habitat for conservation listed fauna.

There were 169 vertebrate fauna species recorded within the survey area, including two amphibian species, 55 reptile species, 85 bird species and 27 mammal species (including four introduced species). The faunal assemblage recorded is considered typical of the Hamersley Range subregion extending from near Pannawonica to Mt Brockman.

Eight conservation listed fauna species have been recorded in the survey area: Pilbara Olive Python (VU; S3) (Liasis olivaceus barroni), Northern Quoll (EN; S2) (Dasyurus hallucatus), Pilbara Leaf-nosed Bat (VU; S3) (Rhinonicteris aurantia), Ghost Bat (VU; S3) (Macroderma gigas), Rainbow Bee-eater (Mi; S5) (Merops ornatus), Eastern Great Egret (Mi; S5) (Ardea modesta), Lined Soil-crevice Skink (P4) (Notoscincus butleri) and Western Pebble-mound Mouse (P4) (Pseudomys chapmani).

Four of the eight recorded conservation listed species are classified under the Environment Protection and Biodiversity Act 1999 as ‘Matters of National Environmental Significance’ species: the Pilbara Olive Python; Northern Quoll; Ghost Bat; and Pilbara Leaf-nosed Bat. A single juvenile Pilbara Olive Python was recorded within the Riverine habitat and two Pilbara Olive Python scats were recorded within the Breakaway habitat type of the survey area. The Northern Quoll was recorded 27 separate times during the survey comprising: six capture records; 19 remote camera location records; and from two scats within the Breakaway, Riverine and Gorge habitat types. The Pilbara Leaf-nosed Bat was recorded at eight of the 14 SM2 bat detector locations, all at low activity levels apart from BAT 14 (located in the mouth of a Gorge) which recorded 257 calls. Further data and analysis of the BAT 14 sites suggests that the Pilbara Leaf-nosed Bats likely originated from a known roost site approximately 10 kilometres south of the survey area. No diurnal or maternal roost sites suitable for the Pilbara Leaf-nosed Bat were recorded in the survey area. The Ghost Bat was recorded twice through scat collections and acoustic recordings. Seven caves were previously identified in the 2014 survey of Mesa H and were deemed potential day roosts due to their size, complexity and the presence of Ghost Bats and/or scats.

The results from the survey suggest that the survey area supports a diverse and representative vertebrate fauna assemblage with a varied array of microhabitats for fauna species to exploit. The microhabitats of the Gorge, Riverine and Breakaway habitat types contain ecological features important to conservation listed fauna such as the Pilbara Olive Python, Northern Quoll, Ghost Bat and Pilbara Leaf-nosed Bat.

Page | iii Robe River Mining Co. Pty Ltd Mesa H – Level 2 Fauna Assessment, May 2016 Short Range Endemic Invertebrate Fauna

The fauna habitats most suited to Short Range Endemic species, namely the Breakaway, Gorge and Riverine habitats, did not support rich Short Range Endemic communities. Conversely, the Loamy/Stony Plains habitat supported some Short Range Endemic species but this habitat type is widespread and has little prospect to restrict dispersal in Short Range Endemic fauna. Prospective Short Range Endemic habitats within the survey area are not restricted at the local, sub-regional or regional scale.

A total of 36 specimens belonging to at least 14 invertebrate morphospecies were collected from the survey area. Scorpions were the most diverse group with six species and 12 specimens, followed by slaters (three species; 16 specimens), pseudoscorpions (two species; four specimens) and spiders (three species; four specimens). No centipedes, harvestmen, millipedes or snail specimens (aquatic or terrestrial) were collected during the current survey. No listed invertebrate species were collected during the survey. Based on these results, nine of the species (64%) were not considered to be, or are unlikely to be, Short Range Endemics. No confirmed Short Range Endemic species were collected; however, five species (36%) were classified as potential Short Range Endemic species, principally in the scorpion (two species), spider (two species) and slater (one species) faunas. These species are:

• slaters – Buddelundia ‘61’ • scorpions – Lychas ‘sp. nov. 1’ and Lychas ‘sp. nov. 2’ • spiders – Karaops feedtime and Karaops sp. indet.

The identity and distribution of these potential Short Range Endemic species is uncertain, primarily due to a lack of taxonomic resolution. Some of the potential Short Range Endemic species are likely to be more widespread but remain poorly documented. Molecular analyses were undertaken on the arachnid specimens because they were either juvenile specimens or from complex family groups that have a cryptic morphology. The four potential Short Range Endemic arachnid species were identified using genetic data and are classified as potential Short Range Endemics in the Western Australian Museum sub-category ‘Molecular Evidence’. The potential Short Range Endemic slater species was identified using morphology and was classified as a potential Short Range Endemic in the sub-category ‘Data deficient’.

Page | iv Robe River Mining Co. Pty Ltd Mesa H – Level 2 Fauna Assessment, May 2016 Table of Contents

1 Introduction ...... 1 1.1 Project Background ...... 1

1.2 Scope and Objectives ...... 1

2 Environmental Context ...... 5 2.1 Physical Environment ...... 5

2.1.1 Climate ...... 5

2.1.2 Geology and Soils ...... 5

2.1.3 Surface Water and Hydrology ...... 6

2.2 Biological Environment ...... 7

2.2.1 Interim Biogeographic Regionalisation of Australia ...... 7

2.2.2 Land Systems ...... 7

2.2.3 Pre-European Vegetation ...... 8

2.3 State and Commonwealth Conservation Categories and Management ...... 9

2.4 Land Use and Tenure...... 10

3 Methodology ...... 11 3.1 Desktop Assessment ...... 11

3.1.1 Database Searches ...... 11

3.1.2 Literature Review ...... 12

3.1.3 Habitat Characterisation ...... 12

3.1.4 Conservation Assessment ...... 12

3.2 Field Survey ...... 15

3.2.1 Survey Timing and Personnel ...... 15

3.2.2 Vertebrate Fauna ...... 16

3.2.2.1 Habitat Assessment ...... 16

3.2.2.2 Trapping Grids ...... 17

3.2.2.3 Avifauna Surveys ...... 18

3.2.2.4 Motion Sensitive Cameras ...... 18

3.2.2.5 Acoustic Bat Surveys ...... 18

3.2.2.6 Active Foraging ...... 19

Page | v Robe River Mining Co. Pty Ltd Mesa H – Level 2 Fauna Assessment, May 2016 3.2.2.7 Targeted Searches ...... 19

3.2.2.8 Nocturnal Spotlighting ...... 19

3.2.3 Statistical Analyses ...... 23

3.2.3.1 Sampling Effort ...... 23

3.2.3.2 Site Classification ...... 23

3.2.4 SRE Invertebrates ...... 23

3.2.4.1 Habitat Assessment ...... 23

3.2.4.2 Active Foraging ...... 23

3.3 SRE Specimen Identification ...... 24

3.4 Taxonomy and Nomenclature ...... 24

3.5 Limitations ...... 24

4 Results ...... 28 4.1 Desktop Assessment ...... 28

4.1.1 Environmentally Sensitive Areas ...... 28

4.1.2 Vertebrate Fauna ...... 28

4.1.3 SRE Invertebrates ...... 32

4.1.3.1 Habitat Characterisation ...... 32

4.1.3.2 Species ...... 32

4.2 Field Survey ...... 34

4.2.1 Vertebrate Fauna Habitat ...... 34

4.2.1.1 Fauna Habitats ...... 34

4.2.1.2 Significant Habitat Areas ...... 38

4.2.1.3 Habitat Suitability for MNES Species ...... 38

4.2.2 Vertebrate Fauna Species ...... 40

4.2.2.1 Herpetofauna ...... 40

4.2.2.2 Birds ...... 42

4.2.2.3 Mammals...... 44

4.2.2.4 Conservation Listed Species Recorded ...... 46

4.2.2.5 Conservation Listed Species Potentially Occurring in the Survey Area ..... 50

4.2.3 Invertebrate Fauna Species...... 51

Page | vi Robe River Mining Co. Pty Ltd Mesa H – Level 2 Fauna Assessment, May 2016 4.2.3.1 Invertebrate Habitats ...... 51

4.2.3.2 Invertebrate Species ...... 53

4.2.3.3 Slaters ...... 55

4.2.3.4 Pseudoscorpions ...... 56

4.2.3.5 Scorpions ...... 56

4.2.3.6 Spiders ...... 58

5 Discussion ...... 60 5.1 Vertebrate Fauna ...... 60

5.1.1 Habitats ...... 60

5.1.2 Species ...... 61

5.1.2.1 General Assemblage ...... 61

5.1.2.2 Conservation Significant Species ...... 61

5.2 SRE Invertebrates ...... 63

5.2.1 Habitats ...... 63

5.2.2 Species ...... 63

6 References ...... 65

List of Figures

Figure 1: Survey area location...... 4

Figure 2: Climate data for Pannawonica (Station 5069)...... 5

Figure 3: Previous surveys conducted over the Mesa H survey area...... 14

Figure 4: Pannawonica mean monthly rainfall (1971 – 2016) and Mesa J rainfall (2015 - 2016), and Pannawonica mean monthly maximum and minimum temperatures (1971 – 2005), and Mesa J mean monthly maximum and minimum temperatures, in the 12 months preceding the survey...... 16

Figure 5: Diagrammatic layout of systematic trapping sites...... 18

Figure 6: Species accumulation curves for herpetofauna surveys...... 41

Figure 7: Two-dimensional ordination of herpetofauna species assemblages of each site...... 42

Figure 8: Species accumulation curves for bird surveys...... 43

Page | vii Robe River Mining Co. Pty Ltd Mesa H – Level 2 Fauna Assessment, May 2016 Figure 9: Two-dimensional ordination of bird species assemblages of each site...... 44

Figure 10: Species accumulation curves for mammal surveys...... 45

Figure 11: Two-dimensional ordination of mammal species assemblages of each site...... 46

List of Plates

Plate 1: Examples of species in SRE groups collected within the survey area...... 59

List of Tables

Table 1: Summary of Astron’s vertebrate fauna and SRE invertebrate fauna assessment...... 3

Table 2: Geological units of the survey area ...... 6

Table 3: Distribution of land systems within the survey area and Pilbara bioregion ...... 8

Table 4: Extent of pre-European vegetation in the survey area ...... 9

Table 5: Database searches requested...... 11

Table 6: Trapping site locations and survey effort for the current survey...... 21

Table 7: Statement of limitations for the vertebrate and SRE invertebrate fauna survey...... 25

Table 8: Summary of literature review results from surveys conducted within the vicinity of the survey area...... 29

Table 9: Vertebrate fauna habitat types recorded in the survey area...... 35

Table 10: Number of vertebrate fauna species recorded during the survey...... 40

Table 11: Total number of herpetofauna taxa sampled in comparison to estimates of the total species pool based on several models...... 40

Table 12: Total number of bird taxa sampled in comparison to estimates of the total species pool based on several models...... 43

Table 13: Total number of mammal taxa sampled in comparison to estimates of the total species pool based on several models...... 45

Table 14: Suitability of habitat types for SRE fauna within the survey area...... 51

Table 15: Summary of the potential SRE species within the survey area...... 55

Page | viii Robe River Mining Co. Pty Ltd Mesa H – Level 2 Fauna Assessment, May 2016 List of Appendices

Appendix A: Background Information Figures

Appendix B: Conservation Fauna Categories, Habitat Condition Scales and Likelihood Criteria

Appendix C: Survey Sampling Locations

Appendix D: List of Specimens Lodged with the Western Australian Museum

Appendix E: Western Australian Museum Molecular Identification of Arachnids Report

Appendix F: Fauna Species Lists

Appendix G: Threatened and Priority Fauna Species Likelihood of Occurrence within the Survey Area

Appendix H: Fauna Habitat Mapping and Significant Areas

Appendix I: Conservation Listed and SRE Fauna Locations

Appendix J: Bat Call WA Pty Ltd Report

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Page | x Robe River Mining Co. Pty Ltd Mesa H – Level 2 Fauna Assessment, May 2016

1 Introduction

1.1 Project Background

Rio Tinto, on behalf of Robe River Mining Co. Pty. Ltd (the Proponent), is evaluating the potential development of the Mesa H deposit located adjacent to the Mesa J Operation and approximately 13 km to the south-west of the town of Pannawonica. Key components of the pre-feasibility and feasibility studies being undertaken are the environmental surveys which are required to inform the environmental assessment process for the potential development of the Mesa H deposit. Astron Environmental Services (Astron) has been commissioned to undertake some of these environmental surveys. This report presents the outcome of the Level 2 vertebrate and Short Range Endemic (SRE) invertebrate fauna assessment at the Mesa H deposit (the survey area). The survey area is 4,930 ha (Figure 1).

1.2 Scope and Objectives

The objective of the assessment was to undertake a two-phase Level 2 assessment of vertebrate fauna and targeted SRE invertebrate fauna through a desktop assessment and field survey, and to incorporate data from previous biological surveys. The resultant data has been utilised to produce this report which is intended to support and inform the environmental assessment process in accordance with the requirements of the Environmental Protection Authority (EPA). Astron completed the first phase of the assessment in 2015 (Astron Environmental Services 2015). The scope of works was to undertake a:

• desktop assessment, including database searches and literature review of available resources • two-phase vertebrate fauna field survey, including:

o fauna sampling o targeted Matters of National Environmental Significance (MNES) species sampling and searches

o fauna habitat mapping • targeted SRE field survey, including:

o targeted survey and searches o dry pitfall trap sampling o SRE fauna habitat mapping. Astron conducted the fauna survey in accordance with the following:

• Position Statement No. 3 (Environmental Protection Authority 2002) • Technical Guidance - Terrestrial Fauna Surveys (Environmental Protection Authority 2016a) • Technical Guidance - Subterranean Fauna Surveys (Environmental Protection Authority 2016b) • Technical Guidance - Sampling Methods for Terrestrial Fauna (Environmental Protection Authority 2016c)

Page | 1 Robe River Mining Co. Pty Ltd Mesa H – Level 2 Fauna Assessment, May 2016 • Environment Protection and Biodiversity Conservation Act 1999 (EPBC Act) referral guideline for the Endangered Northern Quoll Dasyurus hallucatus (Department of the Environment and Energy 2016) • Rio Tinto data standards (Rio Tinto Iron Ore 2016a, 2016b, 2016c, 2016d, 2016e).

The scope and key limitations of the survey are outlined in Table 1. Section 3.5 of this report provides more detail on the limitations of the survey.

Page | 2 Robe River Mining Co. Pty Ltd Mesa H – Level 2 Fauna Assessment, May 2016

Table 1: Summary of Astron’s vertebrate fauna and SRE invertebrate fauna assessment.

Level of survey Survey area size Survey timing Relevant regulatory guidance documents Key survey limitations

• Position Statement No. 3 (Environmental Protection Authority 2002) • Technical Guidance - Terrestrial Fauna Surveys (Environmental Protection Authority • Rainfall preceding both phase 1 and phase 2 of 2016a) the fauna surveys was below average. • Technical Guidance - Subterranean Fauna • Large portions of the Low Hills and Slopes and 24 September to 3 Surveys (Environmental Protection Authority Loamy/Stony Plains habitat on top of Mesa H Level 2 two-phase October 2015 4,930.2 ha 2016b) were affected by exploration drilling pads and survey 27 April to 9 May • Technical Guidance - Sampling Methods for their associated tracks. 2016 Terrestrial Fauna (Environmental Protection • These are classified as minor limitations only and Authority 2016c) are not expected to have a major effect on survey • Environment Protection and Biodiversity outcomes. Conservation Act 1999 (EPBC Act) referral guideline for the Endangered Northern Quoll Dasyurus hallucatus (Department of the Environment and Energy 2016)

Page | 3 350000 400000 450000 500000 550000

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Robe River Mining Co. Pty. Ltd. Mesa H Level 2 Fauna Assessment Figure 1: Survey area location

Author: J. Trainer Date: 24-01-2017 Datum: GDA 1994 - Projection: MGA Zone 50 Km Drawn: C. Dyde Figure Ref: 14269-16-BIDR-2RevB_170124_Fig01_Locn 0 10 20 30 40 50 ± Robe River Mining Co. Pty Ltd Mesa H – Level 2 Fauna Assessment, May 2016 2 Environmental Context

2.1 Physical Environment

2.1.1 Climate

The climate of the Pilbara region of Western Australia is classified as arid tropical with two distinct seasons: a hot, wet summer (October – April) and a mild, dry winter (May – September) (Bureau of Meteorology 2016).

Based on long-term climatic data from the nearest Bureau of Meteorology (BOM) weather station at Pannawonica (Station 5069) (approximately 13 km north-east of the survey area) the mean annual rainfall since 1971 is 403.5 mm (Bureau of Meteorology 2016). The mean maximum daily temperatures range between 28°C and 41°C, and range above 30°C for much of the year (Bureau of Meteorology 2016) (Figure 2).

Figure 2: Climate data for Pannawonica (Station 5069). Mean annual rainfall data has been calculated from 1971 – 2016 and mean maximum temperature has been calculated from 1971 – 2005 (Bureau of Meteorology 2016).

2.1.2 Geology and Soils

The survey area occurs on the Hamersley Basin which overlies the Archaean Pilbara Craton and comprises of mafic and felsic volcanics, shale, siltstone, sandstone and conglomerate, as well as dolomite and banded iron formation. The area is extensively deformed with the rocks being folded and faulted (van Vreeswyk et al. 2004). The surface geology of the survey area is comprised of seven

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Robe River Mining Co. Pty Ltd Mesa H – Level 2 Fauna Assessment, May 2016 units (Stewart et al. 2008), with Robe Pisolite the most dominant (Table 3). Geological mapping of the survey area and surrounds is presented in Figure A.1 (Appendix A).

Table 2: Geological units of the survey area (Stewart et al. 2008).

Area within Geological name Label survey area (ha) Woongarra Rhyolite: rhyolite, rhyodacite, rhyolitic volcaniclastic breccia and Lfhw 88.5 banded iron formation Marra Mamba Iron Formation: chert, ferruginous chert, jaspilite, banded iron Achm 635.9 formation, minor shale, siltstone, mudstone

Mount McRae Shale and Mount Sylvia Formation: interbedded shale, chert, Ashm 289.7 banded iron-formation

Brockman Iron Formation: banded iron-formation, chert, mudstone and Lchk 114.0 siltstone

Colluvium 38491: colluvium, sheetwash, talus; gravel piedmonts and aprons over and around bedrock; clay-silt-sand with sheet and nodular kankar; alluvial Qrc 778.2 and aeolian sand-silt-gravel in depressions and broad valleys in Canning Basin; local calcrete, reworked laterite

Robe Pisolite: pisolitic, oolitic and massive limonite, goethite and hematite Czlr 2,261.7 deposits containing fossil wood fragments; iron ore

Alluvium 38485: channel and flood plain alluvium; gravel, sand, silt, clay, Qa 762.3 locally calcreted

The survey area is mapped as soil landscape zone 285 – Hamersley Plateaux in the Fortescue Province and soil landscape zone 296 – Stuart Plains and Hills Zone of the Ashburton Province (Tille 2006).

The Hamersley Plateaux soil unit is described as hills and dissected plateaux with some stony plains and hardpan wash plains on volcanic and sedimentary rocks. It is comprised predominately of stony soils with red shallow loams and some red-brown non-cracking clays and red loamy earths (Tille 2006). Some drainage habitats occur and these are characterised by sand, gravel, pebbles and stones (van Vreeswyk et al. 2004).

The Stuart Plains and Hills Zone consists of hills and ranges with some floodplains and stony plains on sandstone, shale and conglomerate of the Ashburton Basin. Soils are typically stony with red loamy earth and red shallow loams (Tille 2006).

2.1.3 Surface Water and Hydrology

The Robe River is considered a seasonal watercourse and intersects the northern section of the survey area, flowing in an east-west orientation. A number of permanent pools in the river were observed within the survey area. Numerous creeks and smaller drainage lines stem from the Robe River; drainage lines also occur down the gullies of the surrounding mesas. Springs and pools of the Robe River are listed as ‘Wetlands of Subregional Significance’ (Kendrick 2001) and are in proximity to the survey area. These wetland ecosystems are distributed from 40 km east of Pannawonica downstream to the North West Coastal Highway. Approximately 998 ha in the south-eastern corner of the survey area is within a Public Drinking Water Source Area: the Bungaroo Water Reserve (Department of Water 2008).

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Robe River Mining Co. Pty Ltd Mesa H – Level 2 Fauna Assessment, May 2016 2.2 Biological Environment

2.2.1 Interim Biogeographic Regionalisation of Australia

The Interim Biogeographic Regionalisation for Australia (IBRA version 7) divides the Australian continent into 89 bioregions and 419 subregions (Department of the Environment and Energy 2016a). The IBRA regions represent a landscape-based approach to classifying the land surface, including attributes of climate, geomorphology, landform, lithology, and characteristic flora and fauna. The survey area occurs in the Pilbara Bioregion, of which 5% to 10% is represented in the national reserve system (Department of the Environment and Energy 2016b).

The biodiversity of the 53 subregions recognised in Western Australia was documented as part of a national audit to provide priorities for conservation action (Department of Conservation and Land Management 2002). The survey area occurs within the Hamersley subregions of the Pilbara region. The Hamersley subregion is described in the audit as:

Hamersley PIL3 – dissected bold plateaux and ranges of flat lying, moderately folded sandstone and quartzite with vegetation described as Mulga low woodland over tussock grasses occurring on fine textured soils in valley floors, with scattered Snappy gum (Eucalyptus leucophloia) over Triodia brizoides on skeletal soils of the ranges (Kendrick 2001).

2.2.2 Land Systems

Land systems of the Western Australian rangelands have been mapped and described by the Department of Agriculture and Food outlining the distributions and providing descriptions of biophysical resources including soil and vegetation condition. A total of 102 land systems occur in the Pilbara bioregion covering 181,723 km2. Six land systems occur in the survey area, with Robe being the most dominant (Table 3). The layout of these land systems within the survey area is shown in Figure A.2 (Appendix A).

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Robe River Mining Co. Pty Ltd Mesa H – Level 2 Fauna Assessment, May 2016

Table 3: Distribution of land systems within the survey area and Pilbara bioregion (van Vreeswyk et al. 2004).

Total area within Total area Proportion Land system Pilbara within survey within survey bioregion area (ha) area (%) (ha) Boolgeeda - stony lower slopes and plains below hill systems supporting hard and soft spinifex grasslands 961,847 559.8 <0.1 and mulga shrublands McKay - hills, ridges, plateaux remnants and breakaways of meta sedimentary and sedimentary rocks 425,967 0.2 <0.1 supporting hard spinifex grasslands Newman - rugged jaspilite plateaux, ridges and 1,994,339 673.5 <0.1 mountains with hard spinifex River - active flood plains, major rivers and banks supporting grassy eucalypt woodlands, tussock 481,994 816.7 0.2 grasslands and soft spinifex grasslands Robe - low limonite mesas and buttes supporting soft 128,680 2,758 2.1 spinifex (and occasionally hard spinifex) grasslands Urandy - stony plains, alluvial plains and drainage lines 132,039 121.8 <0.1 supporting shrubby soft spinifex grasslands TOTAL 4,124,866 4,390 -

2.2.3 Pre-European Vegetation

Pre-European vegetation was mapped across the Pilbara region at a scale of 1:1,000,000 (Beard 1975). The survey area is located in the Stuart Hills and Hamersley Plateau physiographic units of the Fortescue Botanical District (Figure A.3, Appendix A). These physiographic units are described as:

Hamersley: a compact unit defined by the outcropping of jaspilite and dolomite, with some shale, siltstone and volcanics. Vegetation is described as:

• ranges – tree steppe of Eucalyptus brevifolia (likely to represent E. leucophloia) over Triodia wiseana hummock grasslands • valley plains – mulga (Acacia aneura complex) low woodlands, or tussock grasslands on cracking clay soils • basalt hills – mosaic of mulga low woodland and Acacia pyrifolia and Triodia species shrub steppe. Stuart Hills: this unit consists mostly of plains, gently undulating pediplains extending out from Breakaways and residuals capped by Robe pisolites, and stony hills and steeply dissected pediments on fine-grained sandstone, shale and dolomite. Vegetation is described as: • hills and plains – Triodia wiseana and T. basedowii hummock grasslands with sparse shrubs, particularly Acacia bivenosa • drainage lines – Corymbia hamersleyana and C. candida occur occasionally, with Senna species and ephemerals • major rivers – Eucalyptus camaldulensis and Acacia citrinoviridis along river and mulga low woodland on river flats and tributaries.

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Robe River Mining Co. Pty Ltd Mesa H – Level 2 Fauna Assessment, May 2016 Four pre-European vegetation units, 82, 603, 605 and 609 (Shepherd, Beeston, and Hopkins 2002), are associated with the survey area:

82: ‘Hummock grasslands, low tree steppe; snappy gum over Triodia wiseana’ 603: ‘Hummock grasslands, sparse shrub steppe; Acacia bivenosa over hard spinifex’ 605: ‘Hummock grasslands, shrub steppe; Acacia pachycarpa and waterwood over soft spinifex’ 609: ‘Mosaic: Hummock grasslands, open low tree steppe; bloodwood with sparse kanji shrubs over soft spinifex/Hummock grasslands, open low tree steppe; snappy gum over Triodia wiseana’.

Table 4 summarises the current and pre-European extent of these four vegetation units in the Pilbara and the survey area.

Table 4: Extent of pre-European vegetation in the survey area (Government of Western Australia 2014).

Proportion of Extent in Current extent Vegetation Mapping unit Pre-European pre-European survey area in Pilbara association (Beard 1975) extent (ha) extent (ha) bioregion (ha) remaining (%) 82 e16Lr t3Hi 2,023.7 2,550,898.98 2,563,583.23 99.51 603 a6Sb t3Hi 534.0 55,764.00 56,726.87 98.30 605 a5,11Sr t1Hi 965.5 114,115.85 114,115.85 100.00 e24Lr a2Sp t1Hi 609 1407.0 72,765.18 74,186.11 98.08 /e16Lr t3Hi

2.3 State and Commonwealth Conservation Categories and Management

Commonwealth and State regulatory authorities maintain databases of the locations and conservation status of significant flora, fauna and ecological communities in Western Australia. The EPBC Act provides a legal framework to protect and manage MNES including listed flora, fauna and ecological communities. These listed flora, fauna and ecological communities are allocated conservation categories, which are outlined in Tables B.1-B.6 (Appendix B).

Ecological communities may be subject to processes that threaten to destroy or significantly modify it across much of its range. These communities are identified as Threatened Ecological Communities (TECs) and are listed at both the State level by the Western Australian Minister for Environment and the Commonwealth level under the EPBC Act (Tables B.1-B.2, Appendix B). The Department of Parks and Wildlife (Parks and Wildlife) maintains a list of Priority Ecological Communities (PECs), which may also be under threat and are assigned one of four priority rankings according to the criteria outlined in Table B.3 (Appendix B).

Under Western Australian legislation, all native fauna is protected and it is an offence to ‘take’ protected fauna. The Wildlife Conservation Act 1950 (WC Act) also provides for native fauna species to be specially protected when they are considered rare, threatened with extinction, or have a high conservation value (Table B.4, Appendix B). In addition, due to the diversity of Western Australia’s fauna, many species are known from only a few collections or locations, but have not been adequately surveyed. Such fauna may be rare or threatened, but cannot be considered for declaration as Threatened fauna until adequate surveys have been undertaken. These fauna species are included on a supplementary conservation list managed by Parks and Wildlife called the Priority

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Robe River Mining Co. Pty Ltd Mesa H – Level 2 Fauna Assessment, May 2016 Fauna List. Priority fauna are categorised according to level of threat and other information and the conservation categories are described in Table B.5 (Appendix B).

2.4 Land Use and Tenure

The survey area is located within the Shire of Ashburton. The majority of the survey area is on the Yalleen Station pastoral lease, with 100 ha (<1% of the survey area) on the Yarraloola Station pastoral lease. The local area is used for pastoralism, mineral exploration and mining activity.

The Millstream-Chichester National Park is the nearest conservation reserve to the survey area, located approximately 79 km to the north-east. The Cane River Conservation Park is located approximately 48 km to the south-west, Murujuga National Park is approximately 120 km north and Karijini National Park is approximately 180 km south-east of the survey area (refer to Figure 1).

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Robe River Mining Co. Pty Ltd Mesa H – Level 2 Fauna Assessment, May 2016 3 Methodology

3.1 Desktop Assessment

A desktop assessment was undertaken to assess whether any conservation listed vertebrate and invertebrate species, SRE invertebrate species or communities, or PECs/TECs were likely to occur within the survey area. For vertebrate species, the review focused on key habitats for conservation listed fauna and species of MNES. For SRE invertebrates, the review focused on key habitats for SRE fauna and the eight invertebrate groups with a known high proportion of SRE species (the SRE groups): centipedes (Chilopoda), harvestmen (Opiliones), millipedes (Diplopoda), non-marine snails (Gastropoda), pseudoscorpions (Pseudoscorpiones), scorpions (Scorpiones), terrestrial slaters (Isopoda) and spiders (Araneae).

3.1.1 Database Searches

A search for Environmentally Sensitive Areas (ESAs) in the vicinity of the survey area was conducted using the WA Atlas (Landgate 2015) and Register of the National Estate spatial database (Department of the Environment and Energy 2008). In addition, database searches were conducted with search details summarised in Table 5. Conservation categories for fauna are provided in Appendix B.

Table 5: Database searches requested.

Date search Database name Search focus Search area results received 40 km radius from an Terrestrial approximate survey area centre NatureMap (Department of Parks fauna and fauna 22/09/2015 point, defined by the and Wildlife 2015a) of conservation coordinates: 21°44’47 S, significance 116°12’02 E 20 km radius from a point Threatened and Priority Fauna Threatened and defined by the coordinates: Database (Department of Parks 30/09/2015 Priority fauna -21.738899, 116.205782 and Wildlife 2015b) species (MGA50, GDA94) Protected Matters Search Tool Threatened and 40 km buffer from the central (Department of the Environment 21/09/2015 Priority fauna coordinates: -21.738899, 2015) species 116.205782 (MGA50, GDA94) 1 degree from a point defined BirdLife Australia (Birdlife Australia by the coordinates: 30/09/2015 Bird species 2015) -21.74617, 116.20118 (MGA50, GDA94) Arachnids, 100 km buffer from survey area Western Australian Museum Myriapods, bounded by the coordinates: Invertebrate Database (Western 20/04/2015 Crustaceans, -21.338898, 115.636173 and - Australian Museum 2015) and 22.548142, 116.805241 Molluscs (MGA50, GDA94) 10 km radius from a point Atlas of Living Australia (Atlas of All fauna 20/04/2015 defined by the coordinates: Living Australia 2015) species 21°53’21 S, 116°22’37 E

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Robe River Mining Co. Pty Ltd Mesa H – Level 2 Fauna Assessment, May 2016 3.1.2 Literature Review

Fauna surveys have previously been commissioned by Rio Tinto within the vicinity of the survey area and supplied to Astron for the desktop assessment. The previous survey areas in relation to the current survey area are shown in Figure 3. The reports reviewed as part of this assessment include:

• Mesa J Tail Track Extension Vegetation, Flora and Fauna Survey (Astron Environmental Services 2011) • Mesa H Level 1 Flora, Vegetation and Fauna Assessment (Astron Environmental Services 2014) • Mesa H Flora, Vegetation and Fauna Survey – Phase 1 Summary (Astron Environmental Services 2015) • Bungaroo Iron Ore Mine and Infrastructure Project, Level 2 Fauna Survey (Astron Environmental Services 2016a) • Middle Robe and East Deepdale Level 2 Fauna Assessment (Astron Environmental Services 2016b) • Yarraloola Targeted Fauna Survey (Biologic Environmental Survey 2014) • Fauna Habitats and Fauna Assemblage of Mesa A and G (Biota Environmental Sciences 2005) • Fauna Habitats and Fauna Assemblage of the Mesa A Transport Corridor and Warramboo (Biota Environmental Sciences 2006) • Bungaroo Trial Pit and Transport Corridor to Mesa J, near Pannawonica (Biota Environmental Sciences 2007) • Mesa G Baseline Fauna Survey (Biota Environmental Sciences 2009) • Greater Bungaroo Seasonal Fauna Survey (Biota Environmental Sciences 2010) • Robe Valley Mesas Fauna Survey (Biota Environmental Sciences 2011) • Middle Robe and East Deepdale Flora, Vegetation, Vertebrate and Invertebrate Fauna Survey (ecologia Environment 2013).

3.1.3 Habitat Characterisation

Using orthophotos provided by Rio Tinto and the available literature, the survey area was split into distinct landform types that were evaluated further for their likelihood of conservation listed vertebrate or SRE species occurrence. The assessment followed several criteria, such as the availability of moisture, extent of shade and shelter, and soil and vegetation types. Emphasis was given to landforms (and associated habitats) that may contain ‘relict’ species (surviving in sheltered and moist conditions) and those that may support habitat specialists (i.e. species restricted to rocky outcrops).

3.1.4 Conservation Assessment

Conservation listed vertebrate fauna species returned from the database searches were categorised for likelihood of occurrence within the survey area prior to the field survey, according to the criteria listed in Table B.7 (Appendix B). Post survey, the likelihood table was re-assessed utilising the information obtained during the field survey. The additional criteria used for the assessment are outlined in Table B.7 (Appendix B). The likelihood table was then updated to reflect an improved understanding of the likelihood that a species would actually occur in the survey area.

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Robe River Mining Co. Pty Ltd Mesa H – Level 2 Fauna Assessment, May 2016 SRE invertebrates are species with distributions of less than 10,000 km2 and their occurrence within their distribution is usually fragmented and highly localised (Harvey 2002; Ponder and Colgan 2002). However, it is often difficult to determine whether or not a species in one of the target SRE groups actually has a range < 10,000 km2. For the purpose of desktop review, SRE status was determined by the staff of the Western Australian Museum (WAM) through providing the results of SRE filtered searches of the WAM databases. This assessment was reviewed and supplemented with information contained in previous environmental reports, the published literature and online databases. For morphospecies collected during the survey, the criteria outlined in Table B.8 (Appendix B) was used to determine SRE status. The SRE categories of the WAM (confirmed SRE, potential SRE and widespread species) were used to assess the status of species, with sub-categories applied in accordance with the WAM-TS guidelines.

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380000 390000 400000 410000 420000 430000 440000 450000 460000 470000 7620000 7610000

PANNAWONICA " 7600000 7590000

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7580000 Previous surveys MeTailTrack saJ Exte nsion(Astron 2011) MeFlora, saLevelHVeg1 e ta tionand Fauna Asse ssm e nt(Astron 2014) Bung a rooIronOre Mine andInfrastructure Project, FaunaLevel2 Survey(Astron 2016a) Me saFlora,HVeg e ta tionandFauna Phase SummSurvey– 1 a(Astron ry 2015) MiddleRob and e East Dee pdaleFaunaLevel2 Asse ssm e nt(Astron 2016b) YarraloolaTarg e teFauna d Survey(Biolog 2014) ic 7570000 FaunaHab ita tsand Fauna Asse m b lagof eMe neand sa A G, a Panna r wonica(Biota 2005) FaunaHab ita tsand Fauna Asse m b lagof ethe Me Transport saA Corridor and Wa rram b oo(Biota 2006) Bung a rooTrial Pitand Transport Corridor toMene asaPannaJ, r wonnica(Biota 2007) Me saBaseG lineFauna Survey(Biota 2009) Gre a teBung r a rooSea sonaFauna l Survey(Biota 2010) R obValley e Me saFauna s Survey(Biota 2011) 7560000 MiddleRob and e East Dee pdaleFlora,Veg e ta tion,Verte b rateandInverte b rate FaunaSurvey(ecolog iaEnvironm e nt2013)

R obRiver e Mining Ltd. Pty. Co. Datum: GDA 1994 - Projection:Datum: - GDA1994 MGA Zone 50 Me saFaunaLevelH2 Asse ssm e nt km 0 2 4 6 8 10 ± Figure 3: Previous surveys conducted over the Mesa H survey area Author: J. Traine Author:J. r Drawn:Dyde C. Date24-01-2017 : FigureRe14269-16-BIDR-2Re vB_170124_Fig03_Pre f: vSurv Robe River Mining Co. Pty Ltd Mesa H – Level 2 Fauna Assessment, May 2016 3.2 Field Survey

3.2.1 Survey Timing and Personnel

The phase 1 field survey (dry season) was undertaken by Matthew Johnston and John Trainer and the phase 2 field survey (post wet season) was undertaken by Matthew Love and John Trainer. All survey personnel have over five years of experience conducting Level 2 vertebrate fauna surveys or invertebrate surveys. The survey was conducted under "Licence to Take Fauna for Scientific Purposes" Permit No. SF010530.

The phase 1 and 2 field surveys were conducted from 24 September to 3 October 2015 and 27 April to 9 May 2016, respectively. Data and trap sites previously set up in the survey area for the Robe Valley Mesas Fauna Survey (Biota Environmental Sciences 2011) was used to supplement the phase 1 data; this survey was completed by Biota from the 22 to 29 October 2010.

Daily weather observations recorded at the Mesa J Weather Station (Rio Tinto supplied data) directly adjacent to the survey area were used to identify local rainfall and temperatures preceding the survey as current data were not available from Pannawonica weather station (Figure 4).

Phase 1: Rainfall received in the 12 months preceding the phase 1 survey was 67.4 mm below the annual average. Rainfall for July, August and September 2015, the three months preceding the phase 1 survey, was almost 10 mm below the average monthly means with a total of only 14.6 mm. No rainfall was received during the phase 1 survey.

Phase 1 daily maximum temperatures averaged 38°C ± 3.0°C and daily minimum temperatures averaged 17°C ± 5.5°C. Mean maximum and minimum daily temperatures were higher during the phase 1 survey than the long-term means for September and October.

The weather conditions for the phase 1 survey conducted by Biota in 2010 included maximum temperatures from 33.4°C to 41.3°C and minimum temperatures from 18.7°C to 22°C. No rain was recorded during the survey. A total of 35.4 mm of rain fell at Mardie during the six months leading up to the survey. This is well below the average of 116.2 mm for this period (Biota Environmental Sciences 2011).

Phase 2: Rainfall received 12 months preceding the phase 2 survey was 145 mm above the annual average. However, rainfall for February, March and April 2016, the three months preceding the phase 2 survey, was almost 87 mm below the average monthly means with a total of 108.8 mm. A total of 35.4 mm was recorded across two days during the phase 2 survey.

Phase 2 daily maximum temperatures averaged 32°C ± 6.0°C and daily minimum temperatures averaged 26°C ± 5°C. Mean maximum daily temperatures were slightly lower during the phase 2 survey than the long-term means for April and May, this may be due to the high levels of cloud cover and subsequent rain. Minimum daily temperatures during the phase 2 survey were far warmer than the long term means for April and May, again attributed to the cloud cover experienced during the survey period.

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Robe River Mining Co. Pty Ltd Mesa H – Level 2 Fauna Assessment, May 2016

Mesa J total monthly rainfall (2015/2016) Pannawonica mean monthly rainfall (1971 - 2016) Mesa J mean maximum temperature (2015/2016) Pannawonica mean maximum temperature (1971 - 2005) Mesa J mean minimum temperature (2015/2016) Pannawonica mean minimum temperature (1971 - 2005) 160 45 140 40 120 35

C) 30 ° 100 25 80 20 60

Rainfall (mm) 15 40 10 ( Temperature 20 5 0 0 Jul-15 Jan-16 Jun-15 Jun-16 Oct-15 Apr-16 Sep-15 Feb-16 Dec-15 Aug-15 Nov-15 Mar-16 May-15 May-16 Month/ Year

Figure 4: Pannawonica mean monthly rainfall (1971 – 2016) and Mesa J rainfall (2015 - 2016), and Pannawonica mean monthly maximum and minimum temperatures (1971 – 2005), and Mesa J mean monthly maximum and minimum temperatures, in the 12 months preceding the survey. Black arrow indicates field survey timing. Pannawonica data from Bureau of Meteorology (2016) and Mesa J data from Rio Tinto (2016f).

3.2.2 Vertebrate Fauna

3.2.2.1 Habitat Assessment

There were 24 fauna habitat assessments conducted within the seven fauna habitat types present in the survey area (Tables C.1-C.2, Appendix C). The locations are shown in Figure C.1 (Appendix C) and the following information was collected at each site:

• location – coordinates measured using a handheld GPS (GDA94) • recorder and date – personnel involved in undertaking the fauna habitat assessment and the survey date • habitat/landform – position in the landscape - major fauna habitat types were described based on the landform and vegetation • vegetation type – a broad description of vegetation type and structure • soils – a brief description of soil type • microhabitat – presence of specific microhabitat features, e.g. leaf litter, logs, burrows, rocky outcrops, rock crevices, hollows, permanent or semi-permanent water

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Robe River Mining Co. Pty Ltd Mesa H – Level 2 Fauna Assessment, May 2016 • condition – habitat condition was assessed based on the presence of anthropogenic (human-induced) disturbances, and using the condition ratings suggested by Thompson and Thompson (2010) (Table B.9, Appendix B) • disturbance – any disturbance such as clearing, fire, weeds, flooding, vehicular, machinery, tracks or grazing • photographs – a representative photograph was taken of each habitat assessment site.

The information derived from the fauna habitat assessments was used to delineate fauna habitats throughout the survey area, which were then mapped accordingly. The potential for the mapped habitats to provide suitable habitat for MNES species, Pilbara Olive Python (VU, S3), Northern Quoll (EN, S2), Ghost Bat (VU, S3) and Pilbara Leaf-nosed Bat (VU, S3) were ranked according to the criteria listed in Table B.10 (Appendix B) and then mapped for each species.

3.2.2.2 Trapping Grids

The phase 1 trapping program was a dry season survey encompassing five Biota trap sites undertaken in October 2010 (Biota Environmental Sciences 2011) and an additional three trapping sites undertaken in September/October 2015 by Astron. The phase 2 trapping program was a post wet season survey undertaken in April/May 2016 using all eight sites from phase 1 (Table 6). Sites were selected in areas of favourable micro-habitat to maximise the likelihood of fauna capture. The location of previous and current trap sites is shown in Figure C.1 (Appendix C).

Biota in phase 1 (October 2010) used the following trap design:

• three trap sites (RVM13-15) of 10 pitfall traps (20 L bucket and PVC pipes)

• one trap site (RVM12) of 12 funnel traps (fish-net style)

• one trap site (RVM16) of 50 Elliot (A) traps (aluminium box-trap).

Aston in phase 1 and phase 2 used the following trap design:

• six trap sites (MHT01-3 both phases and RVM13-15 phase 2 only) of 10 pitfall traps (20 L bucket and PVC pipes), six funnel traps, 20 Elliot traps and four cage traps (wire mesh cage trap)

• two trap sites in rocky habitats (RVM12 and RVM16 both phase 2) were established as Elliot sites, each with 20 Elliott traps and four cage traps arranged in a linear layout along the breakaway habitat. In phase 2, RVM12 was moved to a more suitable location further along the same breakaway habitat.

All pitfall and funnel traps were used in conjunction with a 100 m drift fence running over the centre of the pit, directing animal movement into the pitfall trap. The trap sites remained open for seven nights in phase 1 and phase 2. Traps were cleared each morning within three hours of sunrise to minimise the potential of trap death. The typical trap arrangement used by Astron in both the phase 1 and 2 surveys is depicted in Figure 5.

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Robe River Mining Co. Pty Ltd Mesa H – Level 2 Fauna Assessment, May 2016

Figure 5: Diagrammatic layout of systematic trapping sites.

3.2.2.3 Avifauna Surveys

Systematic avifauna (bird) censuses were undertaken at each trapping grid for 20 minutes each day on five occasions over both survey phases, resulting in 100 minutes per person of survey effort at each site. This equates to a total of 2,200 minutes (36 hours and 40 minutes) over both phases of the survey. All species were recorded from sightings and/or from species-specific bird calls. Opportunistic records of species across the survey area were also recorded and habitats that may support species of conservation significance were targeted.

Biota (2011) undertook avifauna sampling in a similar manner at each of the trap sites. During the phase 1 survey avifauna survey, effort ranged between 40 minutes and 155 minutes at each of the sites with a total of 243 minutes avifauna sampling undertaken.

3.2.2.4 Motion Sensitive Cameras

Thirty motion sensitive cameras were used during both phases of the survey (Moultrie, Bushnell Trophy Cam infra-red, and Reconyx HC600 HyperFire). Cameras were set at 48 locations for between two and six nights with a combined trapping effort of 247 camera trap nights over both phases of the survey. The cameras were baited and placed in prospective/suitable habitat such as cave entrances and water holes aimed at targeting MNES species. Camera locations are shown in Figure C.1 and detailed in Table C.1-C.2 (Appendix C).

3.2.2.5 Acoustic Bat Surveys

Acoustic ultrahigh frequency equipment was used to record the presence of bats, in particular the Pilbara Leaf-nosed Bat and Ghost Bat. Four acoustic recording devices (Song Meter 2, SM2BAT+) were positioned in a total of 14 locations across both phases to achieve a broad coverage of the

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Robe River Mining Co. Pty Ltd Mesa H – Level 2 Fauna Assessment, May 2016 survey area, but also distributed across the survey area to allow for an analysis of flying direction and the potential locations of any roosts. The detectors were set for one to four nights, resulting in a total of 27 recording nights. The locations are depicted in Figure C.1 and detailed in Table C.1-C.2 (Appendix C). The bat echolocation data collected on the SM2BAT+ detectors in the field was analysed by Robert Bullen (Bat Call WA 2016).

3.2.2.6 Active Foraging

Active searches were undertaken across both phases of the survey in microhabitats suitable for ground-dwelling reptiles and mammals. Active searches included the following:

• searching and recording scats, tracks and other traces • turning over rock and logs and peeling off bark • raking soil and leaf litter • searching rocky habitats in cracks and caves, around water bodies and inside bore hole caps.

3.2.2.7 Targeted Searches

The aim of the targeted searches was to identify areas of potentially suitable habitat for conservation significant fauna, such as caves, and secondary signs including tracks, scats, diggings and burrows. Walked transects were undertaken throughout the survey area (Figure C.1, Appendix C). In addition, visual observation for conservation significant fauna habitat was ongoing whilst moving through the survey area. Track logs were recorded using a handheld GPS and are shown in Figure C.1 (Appendix C). Any opportunistic sightings of fauna species were recorded whilst traversing the survey area.

3.2.2.8 Nocturnal Spotlighting

Spotlighting at night was undertaken on foot and from vehicles to target fauna that are nocturnal or crepuscular, particularly conservation significant species. A total of 1,800 minutes (30 hours) of nocturnal spotlighting was undertaken in the survey area across both phases of the survey. Approximately, 1,080 minutes (18 hours) of nocturnal spotlighting was undertaken in phase 1 and 720 minutes (12 hours) of nocturnal spotlighting was undertaken in phase 2.

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Robe River Mining Co. Pty Ltd Mesa H – Level 2 Fauna Assessment, May 2016

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Robe River Mining Co. Pty Ltd Mesa H – Level 2 Fauna Assessment, May 2016

Table 6: Trapping site locations and survey effort for the current survey.

MGA Zone 50 K Site Easting Northing Habitat Vegetation description Habitat Condition Date opened Date closed Trap nights No. of traps Total trap nights Photos (mE) (mN)

26/09/2015 03/10/2015 7 40 280 Melaleuca argentea, Eucalyptus camaldulensis subsp. refulgens open MHT01 414614 7597885 Riverine 0.8 (Very Good) forest over Cyperus vaginatus scattered sedges to very open sedgeland. 28/04/2016 05/05/2016 7 40 280

25/09/2015 02/10/2015 7 40 280 Corymbia hamersleyana scattered low trees over Acacia inaequilatera scattered Loamy/Stony MHT02 416326 7599285 tall shrubs over Acacia bivenosa 1 (Excellent) Plain scattered shrubs over Triodia wiseana hummock grassland. 28/04/2016 05/05/2016 7 40 280

Corymbia hamersleyana scattered low 25/09/2015 02/10/2015 7 40 280 trees over Acacia inaequilatera scattered Loamy/Stony MHT03 419181 7592799 tall shrubs over Acacia bivenosa 0.6 (Good) Plain scattered shrubs over Triodia wiseana hummock grassland. 28/04/2016 05/05/2016 7 40 280

418592 7598780 22/10/2010 29/10/2010 7 12 84 Acacia bivenosa open shrubland to open RVM12 Breakaway heath over Triodia wiseana hummock 1 (Excellent) grassland. 418592 7598780 29/04/2016 06/05/2016 7 24 168

22/10/2010 29/10/2010 7 10 70 Corymbia hamersleyana scattered low trees over Acacia inaequilatera scattered RVM13 418784 7597593 Riverine tall shrubs over Acacia bivenosa 0.6 (Good) scattered shrubs over Triodia wiseana hummock grassland. 29/04/2016 06/05/2016 7 40 280

Page | 21 Robe River Mining Co. Pty Ltd Mesa H – Level 2 Fauna Assessment, May 2016

MGA Zone 50 K Site Easting Northing Habitat Vegetation description Habitat Condition Date opened Date closed Trap nights No. of traps Total trap nights Photos (mE) (mN)

22/10/2010 29/10/2010 7 10 70 Acacia inaequilatera scattered tall shrubs Low Hills and over Acacia bivenosa scattered shrubs RVM14 416472 7595267 0.6 (Good) Slopes over Triodia wiseana hummock grassland. 29/04/2016 06/05/2016 7 39 273

Corymbia hamersleyana and/or 22/10/2010 29/10/2010 7 10 70 Eucalyptus leucophloia subsp. Low Hills and leucophloia scattered low trees over RVM15 417439 7593941 0.8 (Very Good) Slopes Acacia tumida var. pilbarensis tall open scrub over Triodia wiseana open hummock grassland. 28/04/2016 05/05/2016 7 40 280

22/10/2010 29/10/2010 7 50 350 Acacia bivenosa open shrubland to open RVM16 414925 7596459 Breakaway heath over Triodia wiseana hummock 1 (Excellent) grassland. 29/04/2016 06/05/2016 7 24 168

Total trap effort – Phase 1 1,484 Total trap effort – Phase 2 2,009 Total trap effort – Both phases 3,493

Page | 22 Robe River Mining Co. Pty Ltd Mesa H – Level 2 Fauna Assessment, May 2016 3.2.3 Statistical Analyses

3.2.3.1 Sampling Effort

Sampling effort was assessed using species accumulation curves and modelled estimates of the total species pool. Species accumulation curves are created by randomly sampling an incremental number of sites while plotting the total number of species sampled. Species estimators are particular statistical models of species accumulation which estimate the total species pool available. Four species estimators were compared: Chao 2, Jackknife 1, Jackknife 2 and Bootstrap (Colwell and Coddington 1994). Species accumulation curves were created for each faunal group (mammals, birds and herpetofauna) and for the different monitoring programs (Astron phase 1, Astron phase 2, all Astron samples, and all samples including other consultant surveys). Species estimations were based on all Astron surveys. All analyses were performed in R 3.2.1 (R Development Core Team 2015) using the package “Vegan”.

3.2.3.2 Site Classification

The similarity of species assemblages amongst sites was assessed using two dimensional ordinations based on Sorensen’s index of similarity amongst sites. Significant groupings of sites by habitat type were identified using the ANOSIM function (Clarke, Somerfield, and Gorley 2008) within the package “Vegan”. Ordinations and ANOSIM tests were performed for each faunal group.

3.2.4 SRE Invertebrates

3.2.4.1 Habitat Assessment

Fauna habitats within the survey area were mapped for their suitability to support SRE invertebrates as part of an initial desktop assessment (Section 3.1.3) and further refined following the field survey (Section 3.2.4.1).

3.2.4.2 Active Foraging

A total of 20 systematic sites (including the trapping sites) were sampled for SRE fauna across the survey area (Figure C.1, Appendix C). All sites were sampled by active foraging and litter-soil samples. The sites were selected so that they represented the landforms and vegetation associations inferred as prospective in the desktop assessment; however, some sites also targeted the less prospective habitats (e.g. Loamy/Stony Plains) to confirm the results of the initial desktop assessment. Detailed site descriptions, including associated landforms and vegetation features, are provided in Table C.1-C.2 (Appendix C). The descriptions provide qualitative information about factors influencing the macroclimate (e.g. landform, vegetation type, dominant substrate, and indicative plant species) and microclimate (e.g. amount of organic matter or existing damage).

Foraging was focused under boulders, crevices in rocky outcrops, at the base of tree logs, under loose tree bark, in moist and dry leaf litter accumulations and in Triodia clumps, but occurred in all habitats. The search for mygalomorph spider burrows was by visual inspections and using a leaf blower. Night-time searching for scorpions was undertaken in conjunction with the nocturnal spotlighting. Leaf litter was sifted in situ with a 16 mm soil sieve, and potential SRE invertebrates preserved directly in 98% ethanol. Approximately 800 minutes (13 hours and 20 minutes) were spent searching the 20 SRE sites. Any potential SRE invertebrates observed in the dry pitfall or funnel traps at each of the six relevant trapping grids were also collected.

Page | 23 Robe River Mining Co. Pty Ltd Mesa H – Level 2 Fauna Assessment, May 2016 3.3 SRE Specimen Identification

The samples were separated and sorted to morphospecies level under a dissecting microscope. Morphological identifications to species level were attempted for all collected specimens. These identifications were completed in-house and were based on the available taxonomic literature and keys, environmental reports and online databases. Compound microscopes were used to examine fine taxonomic characters not visible otherwise, e.g. trichobothria patterns in pseudoscorpions.

The identification of many invertebrates was straightforward; however, all slaters were identified by Dr Simon Judd (Edith Cowan University) and all arachnid groups were identified by Dr Erich Volschenk. Several pseudoscorpion species were compared with critical specimens from the WAM to assure species alignment whenever possible. WAM lodgement details for representative vouchers are provided in Appendix D.

DNA analyses were performed by Dr Gaynor Dolman from the WAM on representative arachnids specimens considered to represent potential SRE species. This was done because many of the specimens belong to complex family groups or were juvenile and could not be identified using morphology. In total, 10 specimens from two arachnid orders (Araneae, Scorpiones) were submitted to the WAM and the CO1 ‘barcoding’ gene sequenced for nine specimens. Detailed results of the molecular analyses and lodgement details are available in Appendix E (Dolman 2016).

3.4 Taxonomy and Nomenclature

For species identified in the desktop assessment, every effort was made to determine the current scientific name for each taxon, including wherever there was doubt as to their true taxonomy (through subsequent name changes). In addition, some taxon names may be followed by ‘sp.’, meaning that the species name was not given in the original data source. Taxa that were identified as ‘sp. indet.’ usually belong to species complexes that are unresolved to a degree that accurate species identification is not possible. These complexes may include species that are newly recorded for a survey area or have been collected for the first time; however this cannot be determined from the data available. For named species in SRE groups, the taxonomy follows the published literature. WAM species codes were applied to unnamed species whenever possible (MYG codes for mygalomorph spiders) but alternative names applied by the taxonomic experts were used when WAM codes were unavailable (unpublished manuscript names for scorpions given as Genus ‘name’ by Dr Erich Volschenk).

The biology of many SRE species is not well known and the precise distribution and life history are poorly, if at all, documented (Harvey 2002; Harvey et al. 2011). Species identification is often very difficult because few specimens have been collected, reference collections are unavailable, the specimens are the wrong sex or life stage for identification, or they are morphologically cryptic and require DNA analyses. Taxonomic resolution can also be poor, either because there are no published taxonomic revisions for a group in question (terrestrial isopods in Western Australia), or because there is no expert actively working on one of the SRE groups.

3.5 Limitations

Following completion of the desktop assessment and field survey, a review of any limitations that may affect a complete assessment of the data collected was conducted. The limitations listed in Table 7 are based on those suggested as considerations in Technical Guidance - Terrestrial Fauna Surveys (Environmental Protection Authority 2016a).

Page | 24 Robe River Mining Co. Pty Ltd Mesa H – Level 2 Fauna Assessment, May 2016

Table 7: Statement of limitations for the vertebrate and SRE invertebrate fauna survey.

Degree of Potential limitation Statement regarding potential limitations limitation The ecologists responsible for conducting the survey No (i) Competency/experience have extensive experience in conducting Level 2 limitation vertebrate and SRE fauna surveys in the Pilbara. (ii) Scope The survey scope employed was able to be completed What faunal groups were sampled and all sampling methods adequately employed. The and were some sampling methods No fauna observed and identified is likely to represent a not able to be employed because of limitation portion of the suite of species that utilise the survey constraints such as weather area. conditions. The fauna observed and identified are likely to represent a portion of the suite of species that utilise the survey area. Fauna habitats were able to be adequately described and a list of species likely to be present was prepared based on this assessment. Species accumulation curves generally did not reach an (iii) Proportion of fauna identified, No asymptote, but when taking into account previous recorded and/or collected limitation records as well as species recorded from methods other than trapping, then a large portion of the predicted assemblage was recorded. It is not possible to determine bat species abundance from echolocation records; bat activity levels provide a relative measure of the abundance of each species within the survey area. (iv) Sources of information Adequate information was available from database Previously available information No searches and previous studies in the survey area and (whether historic or recent) as limitation region. distinct from new data. (v) Proportion of task achieved. No The survey scope employed was able to be completed Further work which might be limitation and all sampling methods adequately employed. needed? Rainfall preceding the phase 1 survey was below average, however as this was the dry season survey it is not considered a limiting factor. The rainfall in the three months preceding the phase 2 survey was well below average. This was evident in the lack of surface water present specifically in the Riverine habitats. This is likely to have reduced the number of waterbirds recorded during the phase 2 survey. (vi) Timing/weather/season/ Minor The temperatures during both phases 1 and 2 were cycle limitation above or close to the long term average. The higher than normal temperatures, especially at night may have resulted in an increased abundance of species being recorded, specifically reptiles and small mammals. The timing of the survey follows the EPA (2016b) guidelines for SRE sampling. Climatic conditions varied between the two survey periods with no climatic extremes that could affect the activity of SRE fauna.

Page | 25 Robe River Mining Co. Pty Ltd Mesa H – Level 2 Fauna Assessment, May 2016

Degree of Potential limitation Statement regarding potential limitations limitation Large portions of the Low Hills and Slopes and Loamy/Stony Plains habitat on top of Mesa H were (vii) Disturbances affected by exploration drilling pads and their e.g. fire, flood, accidental human Minor associated tracks. Fauna captures at trap sites RVM15 intervention which affected results of limitation and MTH03, which were situated in the middle of survey disturbed areas, was comparable to other sites. No other disturbances were recorded in the survey area that would have affected the survey results. (viii) Intensity No The intensity of the surveys was considered adequate In retrospect, was the intensity limitation for a Level 2 assessment. adequate? (xi) Completeness All main habitats in the survey area were surveyed and No Was the relevant area fully coverage of habitat assessments and targeted surveys limitation surveyed? is considered adequate. Adequate resources were available to identify fauna species. All personnel involved in identification have (x) Resources extensive experience in conducting Level 2 vertebrate No Degree of expertise available in and SRE fauna surveys in the Pilbara. Taxonomic limitation animal identification to taxon level. experts were consulted for all SRE fauna groups and DNA analyses were undertaken at the WAM to help identify the selected taxa. There were no access problems with all of the survey area able to be accessed by vehicle or on foot. Due to safety and heritage related constraints, internal inspections of caves are not permitted. The characteristics of Pilbara Leaf-nosed Bat and Ghost Bat (xi) Remoteness and/or access Minor roost caves are variable and therefore it is not possible problems limitation to determine the potential for a cave to be a roost by external visual observation. The cave assessments provide an indication only as to whether Pilbara Leaf- nosed Bats or Ghost Bats may utilise the caves as habitat. (xii) Availability of contextual Database searches and previous fauna surveys in the information No survey area provided by Rio Tinto provided contextual e.g. biogeographic information on limitation information. the region.

Page | 26 Robe River Mining Co. Pty Ltd Mesa H – Level 2 Fauna Assessment, May 2016 This assessment combines data collected from Biota’s trapping program in 2010 with that recorded by Astron in 2015 and 2016. As such, differences in methodology of trap design (lack of Elliot traps at all Biota sites), survey effort for avian census (varying from 40 to 155 minutes per site), acoustic bat sampling (use of SM2 units versus AnaBat SD units) and their potential effect on the data are difficult to assess. Although different, the methods previously used are deemed adequate for a Level 2 survey.

EPA (2016b) recommends that assessments of SRE fauna in the Pilbara should be undertaken between November and April when there is increased activity of cryptic groups such as male mygalomorph spiders. Recent studies on millipedes and spiders suggest that adult specimens are frequently collected much later in the year (between May and October) and that SREs are not only active during the cyclone season (Car and Harvey 2013; Harvey et al. 2012; Miglio et al. 2014). The current survey was conducted in two phases: October 2015 and late April/May 2016. The timing of survey therefore covers the period of greatest activity for SRE groups.

Most SRE species rely on moisture and are most active following periods of elevated rainfall and comparably low temperatures. Climatic conditions during the first phase of survey were relatively dry with no rainfall observed during this phase. However, there was permanent water in the Robe River and the vegetation was green and intact. Conditions were drier again in the second phase of survey and rainfall for the February-April period was almost 87 mm below the average monthly means. A total of 35 mm of rainfall was observed across two days during the second phase, potentially promoting SRE activity. Rainfall received 12 months preceding the survey was 145 mm above the annual average and climatic conditions are unlikely to have impacted on the SRE survey results. Previous surveys in the vicinity of the survey area (Astron Environmental Services 2016a, 2016b) collected a similar number of SRE species despite varying climatic conditions between these surveys.

It should be noted that some prospective SRE habitats identified in the desktop assessment were often degraded, or modified by infrastructure development. For example, site OPP38 was extensively disturbed and the vegetation had been cleared in a drainage culvert under a railway. Sites RVM14 and MTH03 were nested within drill pads and heavily disturbed through the construction of tracks and vegetation clearing. There were also signs of cattle grazing, such as site MTH02, although the level of disturbance was comparably minor.

Page | 27 Robe River Mining Co. Pty Ltd Mesa H – Level 2 Fauna Assessment, May 2016 4 Results

4.1 Desktop Assessment

4.1.1 Environmentally Sensitive Areas

There are no ESAs located within, or adjacent to the survey area (Department of the Environment and Energy 2008).

4.1.2 Vertebrate Fauna

The database searches and literature review results indicate that 318 vertebrate fauna have been previously recorded within 40 km of the survey area, including six amphibian species, 102 reptile species, 160 bird species (including one introduced bird species) and 50 mammal species (including 10 introduced mammal species) (Table F.1-F.4, Appendix F). Of these, 28 species are of conservation significance, including three reptile species, 16 bird species and nine mammal species (Table G.1, Appendix G). Of these, nine species were considered to have a ‘high’ likelihood (inclusive of those previously recorded within the survey area), 11 species were considered to have a ‘moderate’ likelihood and eight were considered to have a ‘low’ likelihood of occurrence within the survey area (Table G.1, Appendix G). This is based on their respective ecology, habitats considered likely to be present and any previous records from historic survey and database records.

Previous surveys undertaken for Rio Tinto in the vicinity of the survey area recorded 12 conservation significant vertebrate fauna species: Northern Quoll (Dasyurus hallucatus), Pilbara Leaf-nosed Bat (Rhinonicteris aurantia), Ghost Bat (Macroderma gigas), Western Pebble-mound Mouse (Pseudomys chapmani), Eastern Great Egret (Ardea modesta) Rainbow Bee-eater (Merops ornatus), Wood Sandpiper (Tringa glareola), Common Sandpiper (Actitis hypoleucos), Sharp-tailed Sandpiper (Calidris acuminata), Pilbara Olive Python (Liasis olivaceus barroni), Blind Snake (Anilios ganei) and Lined Soil- crevice Skink (Notoscincus butleri) (Table 8).

Page | 28 Robe River Mining Co. Pty Ltd Mesa H – Level 2 Fauna Assessment, May 2016

Table 8: Summary of literature review results from surveys conducted within the vicinity of the survey area.

Author Survey area; size Survey level Survey timing Survey effort Conservation significant vertebrate fauna recorded (year) (ha) Mesa J Mine Astron Level 1 June 2011 Desktop survey and site reconnaissance. Merops ornatus (Rainbow Bee-eater) (2011) 78.63 ha Dasyurus hallucatus (Northern Quoll) Targeted searches of suitable habitat, Rhinonicteris aurantia (Pilbara Leaf-nosed Bat) Mesa H motion sensor cameras and SM2 acoustic Astron Macroderma gigas (Ghost Bat) Level 1 October 2014 bat call recorders were used to detect (2014) Pseudomys chapmani (Western Pebble-mound Mouse) 2,582 ha the presence of conservation significant fauna species. Ardea modesta (Eastern Great Egret) Merops ornatus (Rainbow Bee-eater) Dasyurus hallucatus (Northern Quoll) Liasis olivaceus barroni (Pilbara Olive Python) Habitat assessments, eight trapping sites, May - June Rhinonicteris aurantia (Pilbara Leaf-nosed Bat) Bungaroo avifauna censuses at each trapping site, Astron Level 2 2015 foot traverses, targeted searches for both Macroderma gigas (Ghost Bat)

(2016a) (dual phase) vertebrates and SRE invertebrates, and Pseudomys chapmani (Western Pebble-mound Mouse) 9,795 ha August 2015 the use of motion sensitive cameras and Notoscincus butleri (Lined Soil-crevice Skink) SM2BAT ultrasonic bat detectors. Anilios ganei (Blind Snake) Merops ornatus (Rainbow Bee-eater) Dasyurus hallucatus (Northern Quoll) Liasis olivaceus barroni (Pilbara Olive Python) Habitat assessments, 15 trapping sites, Middle Robe/East Rhinonicteris aurantia (Pilbara Leaf-nosed Bat) June 2015 avifauna censuses at each trapping site, Astron Deepdale Level 2 foot traverses, targeted searches for both Macroderma gigas (Ghost Bat)

(2016b) (dual phase) vertebrates and SRE invertebrates, and Pseudomys chapmani (Western Pebble-mound Mouse) August 2015 11,816 ha the use of motion sensitive cameras and Notoscincus butleri (Lined Soil-crevice Skink) SM2BAT ultrasonic bat detectors. Ardea modesta (Eastern Great Egret) Merops ornatus (Rainbow Bee-eater)

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Robe River Mining Co. Pty Ltd Mesa H – Level 2 Fauna Assessment, May 2016

Author Survey area; size Survey level Survey timing Survey effort Conservation significant vertebrate fauna recorded (year) (ha) Dasyurus hallucatus (Northern Quoll) Liasis olivaceus barroni (Pilbara Olive Python) Yarraloola A Level 1 targeted survey for Northern Biologic Pseudomys chapmani (Western Pebble-mound Mouse) Level 1 December 2013 Quolls, Pilbara Olive Pythons and Pilbara (2014) Rhinonicteris aurantia (Pilbara Leaf-nosed Bat) Size not stated Leaf-nosed Bats. Macroderma gigas (Ghost Bat) Merops ornatus (Rainbow Bee-eater) Ten trapping sites utilising various combinations of pitfall traps (both PVC Mesa A and G Level 2 Biota tubes and 20 L buckets), Elliott traps Dasyurus hallucatus (Northern Quoll) (single May 2004 (2005) and/or funnel traps. Avifauna censuses at Macroderma gigas (Ghost Bat) phase) 1,305 ha each trapping site and Anabat echolocation recordings.

Mesa A Transport April - May Ten trapping sites, including pits (buckets Corridor and 2005 and PVC tubes), medium sized Elliotts Notoscincus butleri (Lined Soil-crevice Skink) Biota Level 2 and funnels. Harp traps targeting bat Warramboo Macroderma gigas (Ghost Bat) (2006) (dual phase) species, avifauna census at each trapping

July - August site and targeted searches for both Pseudomys chapmani (Western Pebble-mound Mouse) 7,045 ha 2005 vertebrates and SRE invertebrates. Bungaroo Trial Pit Dasyurus hallucatus (Northern Quoll) and Transport March 2005 Sixteen trapping sites, avifauna census, Biota Level 2 harp traps targeting bat species, and Notoscincus butleri (Lined Soil-crevice Skink) Corridor to Mesa J (2007) (dual phase) targeted searches for both vertebrates Pseudomys chapmani (Western Pebble-mound Mouse) June 2006 and SRE invertebrates. Tringa glareola (Wood Sandpiper) Size not stated Six trapping sites, avifauna census, harp Mesa G Level 2 traps and echoloaction recordings Biota Rhinonicteris aurantia (Pilbara Leaf-nosed Bat) (single August 2009 targeting bat species, and targeted (2009) Macroderma gigas (Ghost Bat) Size not stated phase) searches for both vertebrates and SRE invertebrates.

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Robe River Mining Co. Pty Ltd Mesa H – Level 2 Fauna Assessment, May 2016

Author Survey area; size Survey level Survey timing Survey effort Conservation significant vertebrate fauna recorded (year) (ha) Trapping at 14 locations, avifauna census, Rhinonicteris aurantia (Pilbara Leaf-nosed Bat) Greater Bungaroo August 2009 harp traps and echoloaction recordings Biota Level 2 Macroderma gigas (Ghost Bat) targeting bat species, and targeted (2010) (dual phase) Notoscincus butleri (Lined Soil-crevice Skink) 8,765 ha March 2010 searches for both vertebrates and SRE invertebrates. Merops ornatus (Rainbow Bee-eater) Trapping at 18 locations, avifauna census, Dasyurus hallucatus (Northern Quoll) Robe Valley Level 2 harp traps and echoloaction recordings Biota Macroderma gigas (Ghost Bat) (single October 2010 targeting bat species, and targeted (2011) Notoscincus butleri (Lined Soil-crevice Skink) 9,354 ha phase) searches for both vertebrates and SRE invertebrates. Merops ornatus (Rainbow Bee-eater) Dasyurus hallucatus (Northern Quoll) Rhinonicteris aurantia (Pilbara Leaf-nosed Bat) Middle Robe/East Eight fauna trapping sites, avifauna ecologia Level 2 Ardea modesta (Eastern Great Egret) Deepdale September censuses, targeted searches for Environment (single Actitis hypoleucos (Common Sandpiper) 2012 vertebrate fauna and SRE invertbrates (2013) phase) Calidris acuminata (Sharp-tailed Sandpiper) 6,092 ha and Anabat echolocation recordings. Tringa glareola (Wood Sandpiper) Merops ornatus (Rainbow Bee-eater)

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Robe River Mining Co. Pty Ltd Mesa H – Level 2 Fauna Assessment, May 2016 4.1.3 SRE Invertebrates

4.1.3.1 Habitat Characterisation

The focus of the SRE survey was on the geology and landforms likely to support a suitable microclimate for SRE fauna, such as deep creek lines, sheltered gorges, south-facing slopes, breakaways and areas with high vegetation cover.

There are seven broad habitat types in the survey area: Riverine, Drainage Line, Gorge, Breakaway, Rocky Hills, Low Hills and Slopes, and Loamy/Stony Plains. Some sections of the survey area have been cleared or are unsuitable for SRE fauna and are not assessed further.

The Loamy/Stony Plains habitat was inferred as unlikely to support significant SRE communities because it is exposed, generally has low moisture holding capacity, a lack of topographic relief, and has uniform vegetation (primarily introduced Buffel Grass and Triodia steppe). The riverbeds of the Drainage Line habitat are also not ideal habitat due to the lack of organic leaf litter from flooding and washouts. Low Hills/Slopes may support some SRE species but lack significant topographic relief and shelter. These habitats are not considered a prospective landform for SRE fauna.

The Gorge, Breakaway, Riverine and Rocky Hills landforms may provide suitable habitat for relictual SRE species owing to their capacity to provide sheltered microhabitats (such as between rock boulders, at the base of outcrops or south-facing gullies), the accumulation of organic matter such as leaf litter, and permanent moisture required for many SREs (Harvey 2002). The Gorge, Breakaway and Rocky Hills habitats are also likely to support specialist SRE species, such as Synsphyronus pseudoscorpions and selenopid spiders that live under rocks (Crews and Harvey 2011; Crews 2013; Harvey 2010).

4.1.3.2 Species

There are 16 arachnids, 19 crustaceans, four millipedes, three insects, one polychaete and one snail species from the Pilbara currently listed as Threatened or Priority fauna species. These species are mostly subterranean and not part of this assessment, or do not occur in the vicinity of the survey area. Only the two dragonfly species, Antipodogomphus hodgkini and Nososticta pilbara, are surface species but no specimens have ever been recorded from the vicinity of the survey area and the species are unlikely to occur locally. There are no PECs or TECs in the vicinity of the survey area on the basis of terrestrial SRE taxa.

The study of available grey and published literature revealed diverse communities of SRE group species in the western Pilbara, including the vicinity of the survey area. However, there is considerable uncertainty about the ranges of most species, either because they are known from only a few specimens or because there is a lack of taxonomic resolution. The collation of data, including results from the WAM databases, revealed at least 137 potential or confirmed SRE species belonging to eight SRE groups that have been collected in the search area (Table F.5, Appendix F). These comprised terrestrial slaters (36), mygalomorph spiders (32), and non-marine snails (19), pseudoscorpions (15), araneomorph spiders (13), scorpions (10), millipedes (eight), centipedes (three) and harvestmen (one). The proportion of confirmed SRE species was low with 21 species comprising millipedes (eight species), spiders (seven), snails (five) and pseudoscorpions (one). Most species were potential SREs with deficient data, reflecting uncertainties caused by insufficient taxonomic resolution and/or the lack of reference collections.

The likelihood of SRE species groups occurring within the survey area is detailed in Table G.2 (Appendix G). Three SRE fauna surveys were conducted recently on behalf of Rio Tinto in the vicinity

Page | 32 Robe River Mining Co. Pty Ltd Mesa H – Level 2 Fauna Assessment, May 2016 of the survey area. The level 2 fauna survey at Bungaroo collected 30 species in SRE groups and seven potential SREs: the slaters Spherillo sp. indet., Buddelundia ‘61’ and Buddelundiinae sp. indet., pseudoscorpions Euryolpium sp. ‘Bungaroo’, Ideoblothrus sp. ‘Bungaroo’ and Tyrannochthonius sp. ‘Bungaroo 2’, a scorpion species in the Lychas ‘hairy tail’-group and the spider Karaops sp. ‘Bungaroo’ (Astron Environmental Services 2016a). The Level 2 survey at Middle Robe and East Deepdale collected 27 species in SRE groups and six potential SREs: slater Philosciidae sp. indet., scorpions in the Lychas ‘hairy-tail’ and Lychas ‘multipunctatus’-groups, the spiders Karaops sp. ‘Middle Robe 1’ and Karaops sp. ‘Middle Robe 2’, and harvestman Dampetrus sp. nov. ‘Middle Robe’ (Astron Environmental Services 2016b). A third survey at the Mesa J Mine Extension collected only one species in SRE Groups: the widespread slater Buddelundia ‘15’ (Astron Environmental Services 2016c)

Biota (2011) collected two terrestrial snails Rhagagda convicta and Gastrocopta sp. and two mygalomorph spiders Aname sp. A and Aname sp. C, from within the survey area. All species were recorded in the Breakaway habitats surrounding site RVM16. All species were classified as potential SRE and with the exception of Aname sp. A, had been previously recorded in multiple biological surveys in the vicinity (Astron Environmental Services 2016b).

Other surveys in the surrounding area recorded similar or lower numbers of SRE invertebrates. A seasonal fauna survey at Bungaroo in 2010 collected 10 locally widespread species in SRE groups: two mygalomorph spider species, a selenopid spider, three pseudoscorpion species, two terrestrial and two aquatic snail species (Biota Environmental Sciences 2010). A previous survey in the surrounding area collected four millipede species, one mygalomorph spider, one terrestrial and two aquatic snail species, which were also locally widespread (Biota Environmental Sciences 2007). The fauna survey for the Buckland Project identified seven potential SRE species: one terrestrial snail species in the family Camaenidae, four slater species, one selenopid spider species, and one species of centipede (Phoenix Environmental Sciences 2012). The fauna assessment for the Balla Balla Railway Project, located north-east of the Bungaroo survey area, collected 13 potential SRE invertebrates, comprising three arachnids, two centipedes, seven isopods and one terrestrial snail (Phoenix Environmental Sciences 2014b). Additional surveys across the Mesa A Transport Corridor (Biota Environmental Sciences 2006) and Middle Robe (ecologia Environment 2013) also collected millipedes, mygalomorph spiders and snail species, all more widespread in the area.

Overall, no confirmed SREs or listed invertebrate species have ever been recorded from the vicinity of the survey area or have been collected in previous surveys. None of the potential SRE species collected have ever been assessed as potentially threatened by economic development.

Based on the desktop assessment data, the SRE fauna in the vicinity of the survey area comprises primarily isopods, mygalomorph spiders, pseudoscorpions, scorpions, and terrestrial snails. Potential SRE millipedes, centipedes and harvestmen are less likely to occur. Although no confirmed SRE species have been recorded from the survey area, potential SRE species are most likely to belong to the slater, spider, snail and pseudoscorpion groups. However, such species are likely to be more widespread locally with total ranges of at least several square kilometres and ranges that mirror the wider distribution of landforms (Astron Environmental Services 2016a, 2016b; Biota Environmental Sciences 2007; ecologia Environment 2012).

Page | 33 Robe River Mining Co. Pty Ltd Mesa H – Level 2 Fauna Assessment, May 2016 4.2 Field Survey

4.2.1 Vertebrate Fauna Habitat

4.2.1.1 Fauna Habitats

Seven broad fauna habitat types were recorded in the survey area: Riverine, Drainage Line, Gorge, Breakaway, Rocky Hills, Low Hills and Slopes, and Loamy/Stony Plain. Areas of disturbed habitat were prevalent in the Low Slopes and Hills habitats on the top of Mesa H and the Loamy/Stony Plains habitat in the form of drill pads and the associated tracks. The habitats are described in Table 9 and mapping is presented in Figure H.1 (Appendix H). Habitat assessments undertaken during the survey are detailed in Table C.1-C.2 (Appendix C).

There was no record of recent or past fires in the survey area. The majority of Loamy/Stony Plain and Drainage Line habitats were generally in ‘disturbed’ to ‘very good’ condition. Some areas were heavily affected by cattle grazing and Buffel Grass. All other habitats were generally in ‘good’ to ‘high quality’ condition depending on the level of grazing, weeds and the presence of tracks. The Rocky Hills, Breakaway and Gorge habitats were generally in ‘high quality’ condition.

As stated in Section 3.5 a significant level of disturbance was recorded during the fauna survey, including drill tracks and pads, pastoralism and weed infestation. The majority of Drainage Line and Riverine habitats were generally in ‘poor’ to ‘very good’ condition due to weed infestation spread through pastoral activities; some areas were also heavily impacted from cattle grazing and therefore the introduction and spread of Buffel Grass (Thompson and Thompson 2010). All other habitats were generally in ‘good’ to ‘high quality’ condition depending on the level of grazing and weeds. The Rocky Hills, Gorges and Breakaway habitats generally had the highest quality fauna habitat condition due to isolation from threatening processes such as grazing.

Page | 34 Robe River Mining Co. Pty Ltd Mesa H – Level 2 Fauna Assessment, May 2016

Table 9: Vertebrate fauna habitat types recorded in the survey area.

Extent in Value (broad faunal Broad habitat Habitat Habitat type survey area Vegetation description Microhabitats Sites assemblage and MNES Representative photos description condition (proportion) species) Densely vegetated High value to a wide spectrum Surface water BAT 11, BAT 12, CAM03, riparian zones of Eucalyptus camaldulensis of fauna species that are likely (permanent and CAM06, CAM14, CAM15, the Robe River and Melaleuca argentea to reside in Riverine habitats. semi-permanent) CAM17, CAM18, CAM32, 143 ha often with open forest over Acacia Good to Riverine Dense and varied CAM33, CAM34, CAM37, (2.9%) permanent and tall open shrubland over High Quality leaf litter HA01, HA02, HA04, HA13, Moderate value to target semi-permanent mixed open herbland and MNES species as they are Hollow bearing HA15, MHT01, RVM13, SRE10, water bodies on open hummock grassland. likely to traverse and forage trees and logs SRE11 stony soils within this habitat type. Moderate value to a wide Eucalyptus camaldulensis spectrum of fauna species or Corymbia hamersleyana BAT02, CAM05, CAM30, that are likely to reside in Broad open valley low woodland over Acacia Sparse isolated Disturbed to Drainage 589 ha CAM43, CAM44, HA05, HA12 Drainage habitats. floor of the Robe tall open shrubland over vegetation Good Line (11.9%) HA20, HA22, HA23, SRE08 River on stony soils mixed open herbland and Minimal leaf litter Quality SRE09 Triodia wiseana hummock Low value to target MNES grassland. species as they do not provide significant refugia or shelter.

Overhangs, BAT08, BAT09, BAT10, Deep often rocky Primary high value habitat for Eucalyptus leucophloia crevices, caves, tree CAM10, CAM11, CAM12, gorges, sometimes target MNES species. Provides 17 ha scattered low trees over hollows, CAM13, CAM19, CAM20, Gorge with ephemeral, High Quality significant refugia/shelter (0.3%) Triodia hummock ephemeral, semi- CAM31, CAM35, CAM38, semi-permanent or sites and supports a diversity grassland. permanent and CAM39, HA14, HA21, SRE06, permanent pools of fauna species. permanent water SRE07, SRE12, BAT14, HA06

High value to a low diversity Eucalyptus leucophloia of fauna species that are likely BAT13, CAM04, CAM07, scattered low trees over to reside in Breakaway Breakaway or ridge Caves (roost/feed CAM16, CAM21, CAM22, Acacia open shrubland habitats. 84 ha line, falling away to caves) CAM23, CAM24, CAM26, Breakaway over Triodia wiseana open High Quality (1.7%) steep scree slope or Cracks and crevices CAM27, CAM28, CAM36, hummock grassland and drainage line CAM40, CAM41, CAM42, High value to target MNES Eriachne mucronata open Sheltered leaf litter HA10, HA17, RVM12, RVM16 species as they are likely to tussock grassland. roost and den within this

habitat type. Moderate value for target Eucalyptus leucophloia low MNES species as they are Stony hills on high open woodland over likely to traverse and forage Termite mounds, 66 ha ranges with Acacia inaequilatera within these habitats. Rocky Hills tree hollows, BAT07, HA03 High Quality (1.3%) dissected valleys scattered tall shrubs over Moderate value to a low crevices and gorges Triodia open hummock diversity of fauna species that grassland. are rocky habitat specialists.

Page | 35 Robe River Mining Co. Pty Ltd Mesa H – Level 2 Fauna Assessment, May 2016

Extent in Value (broad faunal Broad habitat Habitat Habitat type survey area Vegetation description Microhabitats Sites assemblage and MNES Representative photos description condition (proportion) species) Low value to a wide spectrum of fauna species that are likely Acacia inaequilatera BAT01, BAT03, BAT04, Low stony hills and to reside in Stony Hills and scattered tall shrubs over Termite mounds CAM01, CAM02, CAM08, slopes with Slopes habitats. Low Hills 1,897 ha A. bivenosa scattered Large Triodia CAM09, CAM29, HA08, HA09, Disturbed to dissected valleys and Slopes (38.5%) shrubs over Triodia hummocks HA11, HA16, HA18, HA24, High Quality and drainage on wiseana open hummock RVM14, RVM15, SRE01, Low value to target MNES stony soils Minimal leaf litter grassland. SRE04, SRE05 species as this habitat type offers minimal ecological

value to these species.

Low-lying Corymbia hamersleyana Low value to a wide spectrum undulating loamy scattered low trees over of fauna species. Loamy/ 1,762 ha CAM25, HA07, MHT02, Disturbed to to stony plain Acacia scattered shrubs Termite mounds Low value to target MNES Stony Plain (35.8%) MHT03, SRE02, SRE03 High Quality within Robe valley over Triodia wiseana species as they do not provide floor hummock grassland. significant refugia or shelter.

Cleared areas from 372 ha mining and Highly Disturbed N/A None None Little value as fauna habitat. (7.6%) pastoralism Degraded activities

Key: Cam - camera (active) site/location; HA - habitat assessment site/location; MTH/RVM- trapping grid site/location; BAT - SM2 acoustic bat recording site/location; SRE – Short Range Endemic sample site

Page | 36 Robe River Mining Co. Pty Ltd Mesa H – Level 2 Fauna Assessment, May 2016 Riverine habitat is considered to be of high importance to fauna species providing a range of ecological values to a wide suite of species. This habitat type in the survey area was often narrow linear isolated pockets of riparian vegetation which is usually denser, taller and more diverse than the adjacent Drainage Line habitat. The vegetation was complex and provided a range of micro niches for fauna species to exploit, such as for shelter and foraging. There were also a significant number of permanent and semi-permanent water bodies that provide drinking opportunities for a range of species and attract prey for predators. This habitat supports conservation listed fauna species such as the Rainbow Bee-eater and provides foraging sites for Ghost Bats and Pilbara Leaf- nosed Bats. In addition a female Northern Quoll was trapped within this habitat suggesting that this individual was using the habitat as a foraging site or an ecological corridor traversing different habitats across the landscape.

Drainage Line habitat is a commonly recorded habitat for the Pilbara region and considered to be of low to moderate value to a wide spectrum of fauna species. The Drainage Line habitat typically exhibits a moderate diversity of microhabitats, with some tree hollows and woody debris (logs and leaf litter). Within the survey area this habitat was generally devoid of vegetation when compared to Riverine habitat, with less dense and less complex vegetation. There were some locations with water bodies, albeit less significant and less permanent, which would likely be seasonally inundated during large rainfall events only. Conservation listed species including the Rainbow Bee-eater and Lined Soil-crevice Skink may occur in this habitat.

Gorge habitat is the most restricted habitat in the survey area. Gorges are a common feature of the Pilbara; however, as they tend to be narrow, linear features, gorges represent a small proportion of the total land area. In addition, they represent important shelter or roosting habitat for a number of MNES species, including the Pilbara Olive Python, Ghost Bat, Pilbara Leaf-nosed Bat and Northern Quoll. They may also support Priority listed species such as Anilios ganei. Deep caves and semi- permanent rock pools were recorded in this habitat type; these habitat features can provide refuge for fauna during harsher drier seasonal conditions. This habitat is considered of high value as it contains a complexity of microhabitats and supports conservation significant fauna species.

Breakaway habitat is a common feature of the Pilbara but because they tend to be narrow, linear features, they represent a small proportion of the total land area. The breakaways of the survey area were often associated with the Mesa habitat. Breakaway habitat contained microhabitats such as crevices, overhangs and caves that provide shelter opportunities for MNES species, including the Pilbara Olive Python and Northern Quoll. A number of caves were being used as roosts and temporary feeding caves for the Ghost Bat, potential den sites for the Northern Quoll and for the Pilbara Olive Python. The Breakaway habitat provides critical habitat values to a number of conservation listed species including MNES, therefore it is considered of high importance for fauna.

Rocky Hills are common and widespread throughout the Pilbara. This habitat generally has low vegetation complexity and low diversity of microhabitats; however, MNES species (such as the Northern Quoll) are likely to traverse and forage within these habitats. Other conservation significant species such as the Western Pebble-mound Mouse and Anilios ganei may also utilise this habitat. Therefore this habitat is considered of moderate value for fauna.

Low Hills and Slopes habitat was the most common habitat within the survey area. The Low Hills and Slopes habitat is widespread and common throughout the Pilbara region and although there are a few conservation listed species that may utilise this habitat, they are unlikely to be restricted to it, with the possible exception of the Western Pebble-mound Mouse. This habitat generally has low vegetation complexity and low diversity of microhabitats available for fauna species to exploit. The soils are generally stony and compact, reducing the potential opportunities for burrowing species. This habitat is considered to be of low value to a broad spectrum of fauna species.

Page | 37 Robe River Mining Co. Pty Ltd Mesa H – Level 2 Fauna Assessment, May 2016 Loamy/Stony Plain habitat was the second most common habitat within the survey area. It is also widespread and common throughout the Pilbara region and although there are a few species of conservation significance that may utilise it, they are not restricted to this habitat type. Conservation significant fauna likely to occur in this habitat type include the Western Pebble-mound Mouse and Rainbow Bee‐Eater. This habitat generally had low vegetation complexity and microhabitat diversity as well as areas that were heavily affected by grazing and Buffel Grass; therefore, it is considered to be of low value for fauna.

4.2.1.2 Significant Habitat Areas

Several significant habitat features were recorded throughout the survey area. This includes five permanent pools (8.5 ha) that were located within the Robe River (Figure H.1 and Table H.1, Appendix H).

No significant bat roosts or other significant areas were identified during the survey. However, seven Ghost Bat day roost caves were identified by Astron (2014) during a previous survey. Ghost Bat scats were present in all caves and individuals recorded in Caves 2 and 3 (Figure H.1 and Table H.1, Appendix H).

None of the fauna habitats were considered to be synonymous with any TECs or PECs relating to terrestrial fauna listed in the Pilbara region (Department of Parks and Wildlife 2015c). It should be noted however, that two PECs relating to subterranean invertebrates overlap the survey area - ‘Subterranean invertebrate communities of mesas in the Robe valley’ (P1) and ‘Stygofaunal Community of the Bungaroo Aquifer’ (P1). These have not been addressed in this report as they relate to subterranean habitats.

4.2.1.3 Habitat Suitability for MNES Species

Northern Quoll

Approximately 101 ha (2%) of the survey area, comprising Gorge and Breakaway habitats, was considered potential shelter and foraging habitat for the Northern Quoll (Table B.10, Appendix B; Figure H.2, Appendix H). The Gorge and Breakaway habitats contain rocky environments of high relief that are particularly important for Northern Quolls in the Pilbara as they provide denning sites for breeding and shelter and diverse microhabitats for foraging.

Approximately 209 ha (4%) of the survey area was considered suitable foraging and dispersal habitat, which mostly consisted of Riverine and Rocky Hills habitats, particularly where these habitats were in close association with the Gorge and Breakaway habitats as they provided microhabitats such as crevices and cracks for foraging (Figure H.2, Appendix H). The remaining 4,620 ha (94%) of the survey area was considered to provide limited foraging and dispersal habitat, consisting of Drainage Line, Loamy/Stony Plain and Low Hills and Slopes habitats (Figure H.2, Appendix H).

Ghost Bat

Approximately 101 ha (2%) of the survey area, comprising the Gorge and Breakaway habitat, was considered potential shelter and foraging habitat (Table B.10, Appendix B; Figure H.3, Appendix H), due to the presence of day roost caves and feed caves. The caves of the Gorge habitat provide physiologically benign day roost sites that Ghost Bats use for shelter. The Breakaway habitat contains shallow overhangs and caves that Ghost Bats use as feed caves to consume prey they have

Page | 38 Robe River Mining Co. Pty Ltd Mesa H – Level 2 Fauna Assessment, May 2016 captured in the surrounding area. Both habitats contain complex vegetation structures and microhabitats that support prey species and foraging sites for the Ghost Bat.

Approximately 798 ha (16%) of the survey area, which consisted of Riverine, Drainage Line and Rocky Hills habitat, was considered suitable foraging and dispersal habitat (Figure H.3, Appendix H). The tall trees found in the Riverine and Drainage Line habitats provide ideal foraging/hunting perches particularly in areas that contain permanent surface water or thick vegetation. The Rocky Hills habitat contains microhabitats such as boulder piles, crack and crevices that support a wide range of prey species for the Ghost Bat.

The remaining 4,031 ha (82%) of the survey area, comprising the Loamy/Stony Plain and Low Hills and Slopes habitats, was considered to provide limited foraging and dispersal habitat (Figure H.3, Appendix H).

Pilbara Leaf-nosed Bat

Approximately 17 ha (0.3%) of the survey area, comprising the Gorge habitat, was considered potential shelter and foraging habitat for this species (Table B.10, Appendix B; Figure H.4, Appendix H), due to the presence of nocturnal refuge caves. The Pilbara Leaf-nosed Bat requires deep, humid, climatically stable caves for diurnal and maternal roost sites. The caves located in the Gorge habitat of the survey area do not fit these criteria; however, they can be classified as nocturnal refuge caves (Department of the Environment 2017) that are occupied or entered at night for resting or feeding.

Approximately 816 ha (16.7%) of the survey area, which consisted of Riverine, Drainage Line and Breakaway habitat, was considered suitable foraging and dispersal habitat (Figure H.4, Appendix H). The complex vegetation structure, in particular surrounding areas of permeant water, of the Riverine and Drainage Line habitats provide ideal foraging habitat for this species.

The remaining 4,097 ha (83%) of the survey area, comprising the Loamy/Stony Plain, Rocky Hills and Low Hills and Slopes habitats, was considered to provide limited foraging and dispersal habitat (Figure H.4, Appendix H).

Pilbara Olive Python

Approximately 244 ha (5%) of the survey area, comprising the Gorge, Breakaway and Riverine habitats, was considered as potential shelter and foraging habitat for the Pilbara Olive Python (Table B.10, Appendix B; Figure H.5, Appendix H). The caves and overhangs of the Gorge and Breakaway habitats provide denning sites and ambush locations frequented by this species. The thick vegetation and log piles/flood refuse provide shelter and ambush locations within the Riverine habitat, especially in areas containing permanent or semi-permanent water sources.

Approximately 655 ha (13%) of the survey area was considered suitable foraging and dispersal habitat, which consisted of Rocky Hills and Drainage Line habitats (Figure H.5, Appendix H). These habitats are often adjacent to the more suitable Gorge and Riverine habitats and provide dispersal opportunities for the Pilbara Olive Python.

The remaining 4,031 ha (82%) of the survey area was considered to provide limited foraging and dispersal habitat, consisting of Loamy/Stony Plain and Low Hills and Slopes habitats (Figure H.5, Appendix H).

Page | 39 Robe River Mining Co. Pty Ltd Mesa H – Level 2 Fauna Assessment, May 2016 4.2.2 Vertebrate Fauna Species

There were 169 vertebrate fauna species recorded within the survey area during the survey (Table 10). A complete list of recorded species is provided in Tables F.6-F.10 (Appendix F). The following sections provide detailed results for each major taxonomic group sampled.

Table 10: Number of vertebrate fauna species recorded during the survey.

Fauna taxonomic No. of native species No. of conservation No. of introduced species group recorded significant species recorded recorded Amphibians 2 0 0 Reptiles 55 2 0 Birds 85 2 0 Mammals 27 4 4 Total 169 8 4

4.2.2.1 Herpetofauna

Two amphibian species were recorded during the survey: Litoria rubella and Uperoleia saxatilis (Table F.6, Appendix F). Frogs were either caught in pitfall traps, sighted, or heard calling during targeted searches. No conservation significant species were recorded.

Fifty-five reptile species were recorded during the survey (Table F.7, Appendix F). The most abundant groups encountered were the skinks (257 records, 63%), which was also the most speciose with 17 species, followed by the geckos (72 records, 18%) with 10 species. The most commonly recorded species were Ctenotus grandis titan (95 records) and Eremiascincus isolopes (50 records). The most speciose site was RVM15 (Low Hills and Slopes) with 20 species and MHT02, MHT03 and RVM14 (Loamy/Stony Plains and Low Hills and Slopes) each with 19 species. Six of the 55 reptile species (11%) were not captured at trapping grids, but were recorded from targeted and opportunistic records.

Two conservation significant species were recorded during the survey. The Lined Soil-crevice Skink (P4) was caught at MHT03, RVM14 and RVM15 (Loamy/Stony Plains and Low Hills and Slopes). An individual Pilbara Olive Python (S3; VU), was recorded opportunistically in the Riverine habitat during a nocturnal survey.

Species accumulation curves were beginning to asymptote during the current surveys (Figure 6), and based on estimates of total species richness, between 62% and 82% of the total species pool was recorded (Table 11). As an additional four species (7% of all species) were recorded using methods other than trapping, the survey effort recorded the majority of the herpetofauna present in the survey area.

Table 11: Total number of herpetofauna taxa sampled in comparison to estimates of the total species pool based on several models.

Estimated Observed Chao2 Jackknife 1 Jackknife 2 Bootstrap Number of species 51 70.9 72.6 82.1 61.6 Estimated % sampled 71.9 70.2 62.1 82.8

Page | 40 Robe River Mining Co. Pty Ltd Mesa H – Level 2 Fauna Assessment, May 2016 50 40 30 Species 20 All samples All Astron

10 Astron P1 Astron P2 0

5 10 15

Samples

Figure 6: Species accumulation curves for herpetofauna surveys.

There was a significant difference in species composition between habitat types (ANOSIM R = 0.51, P=0.009), with each trapping site generally grouped with other trap sites in the same habitat type and showing similar species compositions. The trap sites in the Breakaway habitat were the most distinct in species composition for herpetofauna. This is likely due to the fact that the trap sites in this habitat type were comprised of Elliot traps rather than pitfall traps (owing to the lack of soil to dig pitfalls into). As such, herpetofauna captures were lower in the Breakaway habitat than the other habitats (Figure 7).

Page | 41 Robe River Mining Co. Pty Ltd Mesa H – Level 2 Fauna Assessment, May 2016 1.0 0.5 0.0 -0.5

-1.0 Breakaway Low Hills and Slopes Riverine

-1.5 Stony Plain

-1 0 1 2

Figure 7: Two-dimensional ordination of herpetofauna species assemblages of each site.

4.2.2.2 Birds

Eighty-five bird species were recorded during the survey (Table F.8, Appendix F). The most commonly recorded species was the Painted Finch (Emblema pictum), with a total of 208 records and the Zebra Finch (Taeniopygia guttata) with 53 records. The most abundant group of birds was the Estrilidae (Finches), with 263 records accounting for 34% of all records. The most speciose families observed were the Accipitridae (Eagles, Kites and Hawks) and Meliphagidae (Honeyeaters), which comprised seven and six species, respectively. The most speciose sites were RVM13 (Riverine) with 36 species and MTH03 (Loamy/Stony Plain) with 29 species. Of the 85 bird species recorded 41 species were not recorded at trapping grids, but were recorded from targeted and opportunistic searches.

One species of conservation significance was recorded during the survey. The Rainbow Bee-eater (S5; Mi) was recorded on numerous occasions throughout the survey area in a variety of habitats including Loamy/Stony Plains, Drainage Lines and Breakaways.

Species accumulation curves appeared to asymptote during the current surveys (Figure 8), and based on estimates of total species richness, between 61% and 85% of the total species pool was recorded (Table 12). The data does not include an additional 25 bird species (29%) that were recorded opportunistically.

There was a significant difference in species composition between habitat types (ANOSIM R = 0.646, P=0.008; Figure 9) with each trapping site generally grouped with other trap sites in the same habitat type and showing similar species compositions.

Page | 42 Robe River Mining Co. Pty Ltd Mesa H – Level 2 Fauna Assessment, May 2016

Table 12: Total number of bird taxa sampled in comparison to estimates of the total species pool based on several models.

Estimated Observed Chao2 Jackknife 1 Jackknife 2 Bootstrap Number of species 60 94.8 83.5 98 70.9 Estimated % sampled 63.3 71.9 61.2 84.6

80 60 Species 40

All samples 20 All Astron Astron P1 Astron P2 0

5 10 15

Samples

Figure 8: Species accumulation curves for bird surveys.

Page | 43 Robe River Mining Co. Pty Ltd Mesa H – Level 2 Fauna Assessment, May 2016 0.2 0.0 -0.2

Breakaway Low Hills and Slopes -0.4 Riverine Stony Plain

-0.4 -0.2 0.0 0.2 0.4 0.6

Figure 9: Two-dimensional ordination of bird species assemblages of each site.

4.2.2.3 Mammals

Twenty-seven species of mammal were recorded during the survey, including four introduced species: Cat (*Felis catus), Dog/Dingo (*Canis familiaris), European Cattle (*Bos taurus) and House Mouse (*Mus musculus) (Table F.9-F.10, Appendix F). The most commonly trapped species was the Pilbara Ningaui (Ningaui timealeyi) with 20 captures (23% of trap records). Also commonly encountered was Planigale (Planigale sp. 1) with 17 captures and the Common Rock Rat (Zyzomys argurus), with 14 captures. The most speciose trapping sites were MHT01 (Riverine) and MHT03 (Loamy/Stony Plain) with six species each. The most commonly recorded species including targeted and opportunistic records was Northern Quoll with five individuals captured and images on 19 camera sites. Nine bat species were recorded from the acoustic recording sites (Table F.10, Appendix F).

Four species of conservation significance were recorded during the survey: Northern Quoll (S2; EN), Pilbara Leaf-nosed Bat (S3; VU), Ghost Bat (S3; VU) and Western Pebble-mound Mouse (P4).

Species accumulation curves reached an asymptote during the current surveys (Figure 10), and based on estimates of total species richness, between 81% and 90% of the total species pool were recorded (Table 13). The data does not include any bat species, which make up 33% of the mammal species, as well as an additional six species that were recorded opportunistically.

There was no significant difference in species composition between habitat types, although the two Loamy/Stony Plain sites were very similar in composition (ANOSIM R = 0.313, P=0.129, Figure 11).

Page | 44 Robe River Mining Co. Pty Ltd Mesa H – Level 2 Fauna Assessment, May 2016

Table 13: Total number of mammal taxa sampled in comparison to estimates of the total species pool based on several models.

Estimated Observed Chao2 Jackknife 1 Jackknife 2 Bootstrap Number of species 12 13.5 14.9 13.4 14.3 Estimated % sampled 88.9 80.5 89.6 83.9

12 10 8 Species 6 All samples All Astron

4 Astron P1 Astron P2

5 10 15

Samples

Figure 10: Species accumulation curves for mammal surveys.

Page | 45 Robe River Mining Co. Pty Ltd Mesa H – Level 2 Fauna Assessment, May 2016

1.0 Breakaway Low Hills and Slopes Riverine Stony Plain 0.5 0.0 -0.5

-1.0 -0.5 0.0 0.5

Figure 11: Two-dimensional ordination of mammal species assemblages of each site.

4.2.2.4 Conservation Listed Species Recorded

Eight vertebrate species of conservation significance have been recorded within the survey area. The locations of these species records from the current survey, as well as previously recorded species, are shown in Figure I.1 and detailed in Table I.1 (Appendix I).

Pilbara Olive Python (Liasis olivaceus barroni)

The Pilbara Olive Python (VU; S3) prefers escarpments, deep gorges, water holes and rock piles associated with permanent pools in rocky areas in the ranges of the Pilbara region (Pearson 1993; Wilson and Swan 2010). Microhabitat preferences of the Pilbara Olive Python are under rock piles, on top of rocks or under spinifex (Tutt et al. 2004). Individuals spend the cooler winter months within caves and rock crevices away from water sources. In the warmer summer months, the pythons are found to move around widely, usually in close proximity to water and rock outcrops (Wilson and Swan 2010). A population is known to exist along the Robe River near Pannawonica (Biota Environmental Sciences 2007).

A single juvenile Pilbara Olive Python was recorded within the Riverine habitat of the survey area (Figure I.1 and Table I.1, Appendix I). Additionally, the presence of this species was recorded on a further two occasions through the forms of scats within the Breakaway habitat type. This species is likely to be found within the Gorge, Breakaway and Riverine habitats particularly in the sites that contain semi-permanent and permanent water. This species has been previously recorded in the vicinity of the survey area (Astron Environmental Services 2016a, 2016b; Biologic Environmental Survey 2014).

Page | 46 Robe River Mining Co. Pty Ltd Mesa H – Level 2 Fauna Assessment, May 2016 Northern Quoll (Dasyurus hallucatus)

The Northern Quoll (EN; S2) occurs in a variety of habitats (Oakwood 2008) but is commonly found in open lowland savannah forest and rocky escarpments. Rocky areas are a particularly important zone for quolls in the Pilbara as these areas retain water and provide a diversity of microhabitats. These areas also tend to have greater floristic diversity and productivity resulting in greater prey density compared to non-rocky areas. These rocky areas also provide refuge from feral cats, fire and livestock (Hill and Ward 2010) and provide breeding potential (Department of the Environment 2013).

The Northern Quoll was recorded 27 times during the survey (Figure I.1 and Table I.1, Appendix I), with six capture records (five confirmed separate individuals), 19 remote camera location recordings and two scats, tracks and/or trace records. Generally the majority of these records were found in the Breakaway habitat; however some records occurred within Riverine and Gorge habitat types (Figure I.1, Appendix I).

A single Northern Quoll (sex unknown) was captured at site RVM16 (Breakaway) during phase 1 in 2010 (Biota Environmental Sciences 2011). During phase 2 a single female Northern Quoll was captured at MHT01 (Riverine) and a single male and two females were captured at RVM16 (Breakaway). As microchip PIT tags were used in the phase 2 survey these records are confirmed as separate individuals.

The Northern Quoll has previously been recorded for the survey area and within the general vicinity (Astron Environmental Services 2014, 2016a, 2016b; Biologic Environmental Survey 2014; Biota Environmental Sciences 2005, 2007, 2011; ecologia Environment 2013). Astron (2014) recorded the Northern Quoll at two locations in the survey area from scat records within the Rocky Hills habitat type. Within the survey area Biologic (2014) recorded the Northern Quoll at two locations, in the Riverine habitat type and Biota (2011) recorded this species once in the Breakaway habitat type. All previous records of this species in the survey area were from sites consistent with the preferred habitat for this species.

Pilbara Leaf-nosed Bat (Rhinonicteris aurantia)

Pilbara Leaf-nosed Bats (VU; S3) are known to require deep caves characterised by high levels of humidity and stable temperatures (Churchill 2008). This is a result of their limited ability to conserve heat and water (Armstrong 2001; Churchill 1991). Caves deep enough to create this environment are relatively uncommon in the Pilbara, with only 20 to 25 roost sites being known (R. Bullen 2014, pers. comm. 20 Oct 2014). Foraging habitat for the Pilbara Leaf-nosed Bat is diverse and includes riparian vegetation, hummock grassland, and sparse tree and shrub savannah (Duncan, Baker, and Montgomery 1999). Roost sites for the Pilbara Leaf-nosed Bat can be classified (Department of the Environment 2017) based on the following criteria:

• Permanent diurnal roosts—occupied year-round and likely the focus for some part of the 9- month breeding cycle; considered as critical habitat that is essential for daily. • Non-permanent breeding (maternal) roosts—evidence of usage during some part of the 9- month breeding cycle (July–March), but not occupied year-round; considered as critical habitat that is essential for both the daily and long-term survival. • Transitory diurnal roosts—occupied for part of the year only, outside the breeding season (i.e. April–June), and which could facilitate long distance dispersal in the region; considered as critical habitat that is essential for both the daily and long-term survival.

Page | 47 Robe River Mining Co. Pty Ltd Mesa H – Level 2 Fauna Assessment, May 2016 • Nocturnal refuge—occupied or entered at night for resting, feeding or other purposes, with perching not a requirement. Excludes overhangs. Not considered critical habitat, but are important for persistence in a local area. Pilbara Leaf-nosed Bats have also been recorded flying over small watercourses amongst granite boulder terrain, over pools and low shrubs in ironstone gorges, and above low shrubs and around pools in gravelly watercourses with Melaleuca leucadendron, such as in Barlee Range Nature Reserve (Armstrong 2001). In the Pilbara, the species has been observed in Triodia hummock grasslands covering low rolling hills and shallow gullies, with scattered Eucalyptus camaldulensis along the creeks (Armstrong 2001; Churchill 1991).

The Pilbara Leaf-nosed Bat was recorded at eight of the 14 SM2 bat detector locations that were all deemed to be at low activity levels, apart from BAT 14 which recorded 257 calls, which is classified as being a site with high activity levels (Bat Call WA 2016) (Appendix J). BAT 14 was situated at the enterance to a large gorge system, of which most occurs to the south of the survey area. To identify where the Pilbara Leaf-nosed Bats were roosting, four SM2 units were placed strategically along the gorge system during 3 to 8 June 2016 (after the main survey was completed). Progressively increasing time differentials between the SM2 units in the south to the north of this gorge suggest the Pilbara Leaf-nosed Bats likely originated from a known roost site approximately 10 km south of the survey area (Bat Call WA 2016) (Appendix J).

The Pilbara Leaf-nosed Bat has previously been recorded for the survey area and within the general vicinity (Astron Environmental Services 2014, 2016a, 2016b; Biologic Environmental Survey 2014; Biota Environmental Sciences 2009, 2010; ecologia Environment 2013). This species was previously recorded within the survey area by Astron (2014). Acoustic detections were made of this species at eight separate sites within Gorge, Riverine and Low Hills and Slopes habitat types.

The caves of the survey area do not match the criteria to be classsified as roost sites for the Pilbara Leaf-nosed Bat, which is supported by the low activity levels from the SM2 units across most of the survey area. The deeper caves located in the Gorge habitat of the survey area have the dimentions to be classified as potential nocturnal refuges.

Ghost Bat (Macroderma gigas)

The preferred habitat of Ghost Bats (VU; S3) is considered to be rocky gorges and breakaways that support caves and crevices used as maternity roosts. The Ghost Bat uses different natural formations for various purposes and for groups to persist they generally require habitats that provide:

• a selection of roosting opportunities with night roosts or feeding sites, day roosts and at least one deep cave with characteristics of a maternity roost • nearby gullies and gorges with vegetation of vertical complexity (diverse vegetation heights and density) and presence of water that would attract prey species • a productive foraging area within a 5 km to 10 km radius, usually including a good quality riparian drainage line.

Transient roosts and feeding sites are used by small numbers of Ghost Bats, whereas maternity roosts are used by larger colonies (Armstrong and Anstee 2000). Night feeding roosts (feed caves) are typically shallow caves and shelters/overhangs high in the strata and poorly insulated from the elements (Armstrong and Anstee 2000). Transient day roosts are deeper and more complex, have more insulation providing a more stable temperature and typically have one or more large chambers high enough to avoid predators. Maternity roosts provide additional features to support a

Page | 48 Robe River Mining Co. Pty Ltd Mesa H – Level 2 Fauna Assessment, May 2016 reproducing population including high temperature (27°C to 33°C) and humidity (>85%) (Armstrong and Anstee 2000). The Ghost Bat can have a relatively small nightly foraging range (up to 2 km from the roost where it has been studied in Queensland) (Tidemann et al. 1985; Pettigrew et al. 1986), but has the flight capability to range widely (Bullen and McKenzie 2002), perhaps tens of kilometres in a night. This is evident from genetic markers, which suggest that males are particularly likely to disperse long distances throughout the landscape (Worthington Wilmer et al. 1994; 1999).

Ghost Bats require caves of varying shapes and sizes to fulfil each of its ecological requirements. Caves usage can be classified into three categories: feed caves, day roosts and maternal roosts.

• Feed caves are typically shallow caves or overhangs high in the strata that are poorly insulated from the elements (Armstrong and Anstee 2000). Ghost Bats hunt at night and use feed caves to consume prey they have captured in the surrounding area. Feed caves often contain Ghost Bat scats and/or feeding remnants (typically feathers and small animal bones). • Day roosts are generally deep, complex caves or disused mines that contain domed ceilings, fissures or passages which create a stable microclimate. These caves are usually lower in the strata making them well insulated. The stable temperature and elevated humidity of these caves relative to the ambient conditions create physiologically benign conditions (McKenzie and Bullen 2009; Armstrong and Anstee 2000; Hall et al. 1997; Leitner and Nelson 1967). • Maternal roosts like day roosts are generally deep, complex caves or disused mines that contain domed ceilings, fissures or passages which create a stable microclimate and often contain multiple entrances (McKenzie and Hall 2008). Maternal roosts have a stable temperature of 23°C to 28°C and moderate to high relative humidity of 50% to 100% (Armstrong and Anstee 2000; Churchill 1991; Churchill and Helman 1990; Pettigrew et al. 1986). The Ghost Bat was recorded twice during the current survey through scat collections and acoustic recordings from SM2 bat detectors. This includes acoustic recordings on four separate occasions (Figure G.1, Appendix G; Bat Call WA 2016) and from scat piles within temporary feed caves. Seven caves have been previously identified in the 2014 survey of Mesa H (Astron Environmental Services 2014) these were deemed potential day roosts due to their size, complexity and the presence of Ghost Bats and/or scats (Figure I.1, Appendix I).

The Ghost Bat has been previously recorded within the vicinity of the survey area from past fauna surveys (Astron Environmental Services 2014, 2016a, 2016b; Biologic Environmental Survey 2014; Biota Environmental Sciences 2005, 2006, 2009, 2010, 2011). Within the survey area Astron (2014) has previously recorded the presence of Ghost Bats at 12 locations (six scat locations and six acoustic records).

Rainbow Bee-eater (Merops ornatus)

The Rainbow Bee-eater (Mi; S5) is one of the most common and widespread birds in Australia and was a commonly recorded species during bioregional surveys in the Pilbara (Burbidge, Johnstone, and Pearson 2010). The species winters from the Gascoyne north to Indonesia, moving south mainly in late September and early October and north from February to April (Johnstone and Storr 1998). Rainbow Bee-eaters tend to prefer lightly wooded, preferably sandy country near water (Johnstone and Storr 1998).

The Rainbow Bee-eater was recorded on numerous occasions throughout the survey area during both phases of the fauna survey in all habitats including Riverine, Drainage Line, Loamy/Stony Plains, Low Hills and Slopes, Gorge and Breakaway (Figure I.1 and Table I.1, Appendix I). Nine previous

Page | 49 Robe River Mining Co. Pty Ltd Mesa H – Level 2 Fauna Assessment, May 2016 records of this species were made within the survey area (Astron Environmental Services 2014; Biota Environmental Sciences 2011; ecologia Environment 2013) and numerous records exist in the vicinity of the survey area (Astron Environmental Services 2011, 2016a, 2016b; Biologic Environmental Survey 2014; Biota Environmental Sciences 2010; ecologia Environment 2013).

Eastern Great Egret (Ardea modesta)

The Eastern Great Egret (Mi; S5) is an inland wetland specialist often seen wading in a range of wetlands from lakes, rivers and swamps to estuaries (Johnstone and Storr 1998). Eastern Great Egrets can be seen alone or in small flocks, often with other egret species, and roost at night in small groups. This species has been recorded within the survey area in the Riverine habitat (Astron Environmental Services 2014) and in the vicinity of the survey area (Astron Environmental Services 2014, 2016b; ecologia Environment 2013). The Eastern Great Egret is likely to be present at permanent pools within the Riverine and Drainage Line habitats of the survey area.

Lined Soil-crevice Skink (Notoscincus butleri)

The Lined Soil-crevice Skink (P4) is endemic to Western Australia and restricted to the arid north- west of the Pilbara bioregion (Storr, Smith, and Johnstone 1999). This species has been associated with spinifex-dominated areas near creek and river margins (Wilson and Swan 2010).

The Lined Soil-crevice Skink was captured on five occasions during the survey at three trapping grids (MHT03, RVM14 and RVM15); all within the Loamy/Stony Plains and the Low Hills and Slopes habitat types (Figure I.1 and Table I.1, Appendix I). Four previous records of this species were made within the survey area (Biota Environmental Sciences 2006, 2011; ecologia Environment 2013) and the vicinity of the survey area (Astron Environmental Services 2016a, 2016b; Biota Environmental Sciences 2006, 2007, 2010, 2011).

Western Pebble-mound Mouse (Pseudomys chapmani)

Although suitable habitat is patchy, extant Western Pebble-mound Mouse (P4) populations are widespread in the extensive ranges of the central and southern Pilbara region (Start 2008). The persistence of abandoned mounds in the Gascoyne and Murchison regions and small, isolated, coastal ranges in the Pilbara indicates considerable recent decline (Start 2008). Colonies occur on the gentler slopes of rocky ranges where the ground is covered by stony mulch and vegetated by hard spinifex, often with a sparse overstorey of eucalypts and scattered shrubs, typically Senna, Acacia and Ptilotus (Start 2008). Mounds are also sited close to narrow ribbons of Acacia dominated scrub along incised drainage lines (Start 2008).

Five inactive mounds were recorded within the Low Hills and Slopes habitat type during the survey (Figure I.1 and Table I.1, Appendix I). This species has been previously recorded in the survey area; Astron (2014) recorded one inactive pebble-mound and Biota (2006) captured one individual from the Low Hills and Slopes habitat type. Numerous records of this species exist from the vicinity of the survey area (Astron Environmental Services 2014, 2016a, 2016b; Biologic Environmental Survey 2014; Biota Environmental Sciences 2006, 2007).

4.2.2.5 Conservation Listed Species Potentially Occurring in the Survey Area

One species, the Blind Snake, Anilios ganei (P1), was not recorded in the survey area but was considered to have a high likelihood of occurring (Table G.1, Appendix G).

The Blind Snake Anilios ganei, is often poorly collected in vertebrate fauna surveys, but is known from the Pannawonica local area. This species has been associated with moist gorges and gullies

Page | 50 Robe River Mining Co. Pty Ltd Mesa H – Level 2 Fauna Assessment, May 2016 (Wilson and Swan 2010) but potentially occurs over a wide range of other stony habitats. Given its cryptic fossorial habit this species is rarely encountered. Little is known of this species’ ecology but like most other blind snakes, it is insectivorous, feeding on termites and their eggs, and larvae and pupae of ants (Wilson and Swan 2010). This species has been recorded within the vicinity of the survey area (Astron Environmental Services 2016a) and is likely to be present within suitable habitats, including the Gorge, Breakaway and Rocky Hills habitat types of the survey area.

Eleven species were not found in the survey area but were all considered to have a moderate likelihood of occurrence: Fork-tailed Swift (Mi; S5), Cattle Egret (Mi; S5), Letter-winged Kite (P4), Australian Painted Snipe (EN; S2), Common Sandpiper (Mi; S5), Sharp-tailed Sandpiper (Mi; S5), Wood Sandpiper (Mi; S5), Common Greenshank (Mi; S5), Oriental Pratincole (Mi; S5), Long-tailed Dunnart (P4) and Short-tailed Mouse (P4) (Table G.1, Appendix G). Although suitable habitat is present within the survey area, these species are either seasonal migrants only present at certain times of the year or they are cryptic species such as Australian Painted Snipe and Oriental Pratincole, making individuals difficult to record during fauna surveys.

An additional eight species not found in the survey area were considered to have a low likelihood of occurrence due to lack of suitable habitats (Table G.1, Appendix G).

4.2.3 Invertebrate Fauna Species

4.2.3.1 Invertebrate Habitats

Seven potential SRE habitat types were identified differing in their prospectivity for SRE fauna. The most prospective habitats were Breakaway and Gorge habitats, followed by Rocky Hills, Riverine habitats and Drainage Line habitats. Breakaway and Gorge habitats were also the least common landforms, which together comprised only 2% of the survey area. The most common habitat types, that together account for more than 74.3% of the survey area, were assessed as not suitable or having low suitability for supporting SREs in the desktop assessment. The fauna habitats’ suitability to support SRE species are detailed in Table 14 and mapping is presented in Figure H.1.

Table 14: Suitability of habitat types for SRE fauna within the survey area.

Landform/habitat Total area (ha) Total area (%) Suitability for SRE fauna Riverine 143 ha 2.9% Moderate Drainage Lines 589 ha 11.9% Moderate Gorge 17 ha 0.3% High Breakaway 84 ha 1.7% High Rocky Hills 66 ha 1.3% Moderate Low Hills and Slopes 1,897 ha 38.5% Low-Moderate Loamy/Stony Plains 1,762 ha 35.8% Low Disturbed 372 ha 7.6% N/A TOTAL 4,930 ha

Riverine habitats of the Robe River valley in the survey area comprised linear isolated pockets of riparian vegetation and associated woodlands which are denser, taller and more diverse than the adjacent Drainage Line habitat. The vegetation was complex and provided a range of micro-niches for SRE fauna. Permanent pools of water were present during the survey and the area generally had more moisture than adjacent habitat types. This habitat was sampled as sites MTH01, SRE10, SRE11 and RVM13 and the potential SRE scorpion Lychas ‘sp. nov. 1’ (MHT01, RVM13) was collected. This

Page | 51 Robe River Mining Co. Pty Ltd Mesa H – Level 2 Fauna Assessment, May 2016 species was identified using molecular methods and its actual range is currently not clear. Overall, the survey data confirmed the desktop assessment that this is moderately suitable habitat for SRE fauna.

Drainage Line habitats are open riverbeds of the Robe River that runs through the survey area from east to west. Although some portions of this habitat are well-vegetated, the majority of the Drainage Line habitat in the survey area is open, exposed riverbeds with little leaf litter. The Drainage Line habitat associated with the Low Hills and Slopes or Breakaway habitats have an elevated capacity to hold moisture and complex vegetation associations providing a more suitable environment for SRE species. Site SRE09 represented this habitat type. The collected Indolpium pseudoscorpions, are widespread species that have been collected during previous fauna surveys in the surrounding area (Astron Environmental Services 2016a, 2016b). This habitat is considered to have moderate suitability for SRE fauna but it appears that the species in SRE groups are locally widespread.

Gorge habitat is associated with the Rocky Hills or Breakaway habitats, where deeply carved rock incisions and minor drainage lines provide shade and diverse microhabitats. Minor creek lines and water run-offs lead to higher moisture availability compared to the surrounding areas. Most of the Gorge habitat in the survey area was open and exposed, therefore limiting the amount of moist microhabitats available for SRE species. This is a relatively rare habitat type in the survey area and was represented by sites SRE06, SRE07 and SRE12. The potential SRE slater Buddelundia ‘61’ was collected in the Gorge habitat but is also known from the Bungaroo area (Astron Environmental Services 2016a). No other potential SREs were collected in this habitat type. The Gorge habitat is generally considered as having high suitability for SRE habitat but was surprisingly poor in the survey area for unknown reasons. Site-specific characteristics such as sun exposition and hydrogeology may account for this.

Breakaway habitat contains exposed rock faces with accumulations of rock boulders and scree. It differs from the geologically similar Low Hills and Slopes habitat in that the rock strata are not compacted and without a weathered zone near the surface. It provides shelter for SRE fauna and diverse microhabitats for both habitat specialists and moisture-dependent SRE fauna. This habitat type was sampled as sites SRE08, RVM12, RVM16 and OPP37. The collected fauna comprised both widespread (Buddelundia ‘14hr’) and potential SRE (Buddelundia ‘61’) species. Similar results were acquired for the arachnid fauna, with two of the collected species (Indolpium sp. indet. and Beierolpium 8/4) widespread and the third (spider Karaops sp. indet.) representing a potential SRE. All sampled SRE groups are typical representatives of Breakaway habitats and specialist species that live under rocks and gravel. The distribution of the species present will mirror the degree of connectivity for these habitats.

Rocky Hills habitat denotes the high-elevation rock features isolated to the south-west of the survey area. This habitat type is deeply incised by creek lines and valleys. No SRE sampling was undertaken within this habitat type. Based on its rocky microhabitats it is expected to provide habitat for specialist species that live under rocks and gravel, similar to those found in the Breakaway habitats. This habitat type represents a small portion of the survey area and is the dominant habitat/landform to the south of the survey area.

Low Hills and Slopes habitat is widespread in the survey area and was sampled by sites SRE01, SRE04, SRE05, RVM14 and RVM15. Both sites RVM14 and RVM15 were generally well-vegetated with Triodia and some emergent Eucalyptus leucopholia over a stony surface. The collected invertebrates comprised widespread species (scorpions Lychas ‘pilbara1’ and Lychas ‘harveyi’ and spider Aname mellosa) and no potential SRE species were collected. Although there is some potential for SRE fauna to be present in this habitat, most species are clearly widespread in the western Pilbara and have also been recorded in previous fauna surveys from other habitat types

Page | 52 Robe River Mining Co. Pty Ltd Mesa H – Level 2 Fauna Assessment, May 2016 (Astron Environmental Services 2016a, 2016b). Overall, this confirms the general assessment that this habitat has low to moderate suitability for SRE fauna.

Loamy/Stony Plains habitat is the most widespread habitat type in the survey area and was sampled by sites MHT02, MHT03, SRE02 and SRE03. Although soil types differ, this habitat type is generally exposed and has low microhabitat diversity compared to other landforms. It is therefore surprising that a moderately diverse SRE community was recorded in this habitat, including the potential SRE scorpion Lychas ‘sp. nov. 2’ and the more widespread Lychas ‘multipunctatus’. However, both species were identified from genetic data and range estimates are conservative because no comparative genetic data is available for morphologically similar specimens from other areas in the Pilbara. Both species may actually have been sampled during previous surveys in this region (Astron Environmental Services 2016a, 2016b) but more sequencing work would be required to test this. Certainly, it appears that there is a high degree of connectivity in this habitat type over wide areas.

Overall, none of the habitat types sampled in the survey area were inferred as having a very high prospect for SRE fauna. The Loamy/Stony Plains habitat had a higher suitability than suggested by the desktop review, which may reflect site-specific characteristics or survey design. Other habitat types that are usually considered highly prospective (Gorge habitat) did not have a very diverse SRE fauna. No individual sites were overly rich and there were no local ‘hotspots’ of SRE biodiversity. The two habitat types that are highly localised and have the potential to restrict dispersal in SRE fauna (Gorge and Breakaway habitats) were not overly rich in SRE fauna.

4.2.3.2 Invertebrate Species

A total of 36 specimens belonging to at least 14 invertebrate morphospecies were collected from the survey area. Scorpions were the most diverse group with seven species and 12 specimens, followed by slaters (three species; 16 specimens), pseudoscorpions (two species; four specimens) and spiders (two species; four specimens). No centipedes, harvestmen, millipedes and snail specimens (aquatic or terrestrial) were collected. No listed invertebrate species were collected during the survey.

Based on these results, eight species (64%) were not considered to be, or unlikely to be, SREs. No confirmed SRE species were collected; however, five species (36%) were classified as potential SRE species, principally in the scorpion (two species), spider (two species) and slater (one species) faunas (Table 15 and Figure I.2, Table I.2, Appendix I). These species are:

• slaters – Buddelundia ‘61’ • scorpions – Lychas ‘sp. nov. 1’ and Lychas ‘sp. nov. 2’ • spiders – Karaops feedtime and Karaops sp. indet.

Of these potential species, the slater Buddelundia ‘61’ was collected from multiple habitats that extend far beyond the survey area. The scorpions Lychas ‘sp. nov. 1’ and Lychas ‘sp. nov. 2’ were identified using DNA sequence data and are treated here as potential SREs primarily because there were no matching sequences in the databases of the WAM and the distribution ranges cannot be inferred at present. It is likely that both species are more widespread and future genetic work is likely to show a wider distribution. Morphologically similar specimens have been collected from other areas of the western Pilbara but genetic work still has to be undertaken on these samples. The two spider-species were collected from juveniles and also identified using DNA sequence data. Karaops feedtime is a potential SRE but has been collected from a disturbed site and is certainly more widespread, as has been suggested by the genetic data. Karaops sp. indet. is also a potential SRE and has been collected from the Breakaway habitat. However, genetically similar specimens have been collected from localities outside the Mesa H survey area and the species is clearly more

Page | 53 Robe River Mining Co. Pty Ltd Mesa H – Level 2 Fauna Assessment, May 2016 widespread. Karaops specimens have also been collected previously during fauna surveys at Bungaroo and Middle Robe/East Deepdale (Astron Environmental Services 2016a, 2016b) and they may belong to this species.

Overall, only a relatively small number of potential SRE species were collected in the survey area. The status of the potential SREs is also often unclear and the data available is not sufficient to establish SRE status with certainty (WAM sub-categories ‘Data Deficient’ or ‘Molecular Evidence’ for SRE species). Four of the potential SREs were collected from Loamy/Stony Plains, Low Hills and Slopes or Riverine habitats that are widespread habitat types extending far beyond the survey area, with no obvious barriers for the dispersal of fauna within these habitats. Only one spider species (Karaops sp. indet.) occurs in a habitat type that may be more restricted but additional specimens of this species are known from outside the survey area. It should also be noted that no species of Karaops have ever been shown to have ranges smaller than the survey area.

Many species known from the desktop assessment to potentially occur within the survey area were not collected. For example, no mygalomorph spider species of the genera Missulena (Actinopodidae) and Synothele (Barychelidae) were collected, although they occur in similar habitats nearby (Biota Environmental Sciences 2007, 2010, 2011), indicating they are likely to be absent from the survey area. Most species identified in the desktop assessment occur in the wider search area and outside the survey area. They may be absent locally, were not collected, or have ranges that do not coincide with the survey area.

Disturbance factors, such as the presence of weeds, were unlikely to have affected the survey results. The potential impact of these factors is discussed in more detail in Section 3.5. Importantly, sampling for SRE invertebrates is principally opportunistic because most SREs have patchy distributions and can be very difficult to sample, especially when habitat preferences of particular species are unknown, they occur at low abundance, or sampling is outside their narrow activity period.

Page | 54 Robe River Mining Co. Pty Ltd Mesa H – Level 2 Fauna Assessment, May 2016

Table 15: Summary of the potential SRE species within the survey area.

WAM Species / No. of Linear Habitat SRE Site(s) Landform Status SRE category specimens range surrogates category Slaters Potential SRE – Buddelundia OPP37 Breakaway Also known from Research 5 6.0 km Available ‘61’ SRE12 Gorge Bungaroo and Expertise Scorpiones Potential Lychas ‘sp. SRE – MHT01 Loamy/Stony Probably more 3 7.0 km Available nov. 1’ Molecular RVM13 Plains widespread Evidence Sequenced for the first time. Potential Possibly Lychas ‘sp. SRE – Loamy/Stony conspecific with 2 MHT03 Unknown Available nov. 2’ Molecular Plains the more Evidence widespread Lychas ‘gracilimanus’ Spiders Unresolved Potential taxonomy, Karaops SRE – Disturbed additional 1 OPP38 Unknown Available feedtime Data Areas records from Deficient outside the survey area Unresolved Potential taxonomy, Karaops sp. SRE – additional 1 SRE08 Breakaway 5.7 km Available indet. Molecular records from Evidence outside the survey area

A summary of the SRE groups recorded and the six potential SRE species identified is provided below.

4.2.3.3 Slaters

Three slater species (and 16 specimens) were collected in this survey. They all belong to Buddelundia, a genus that is highly diverse and comprises more than 100 species of which almost all are currently undescribed. All species collected in this survey are widespread.

Buddelundia ‘10bf’

Thirteen specimens of this morphospecies were collected from site MHT02 in the Loamy/Stony Plains habitat. This species is widespread in the northern Pilbara (Simon Judd, pers. comm. 2016) and was collected from a habitat type that extends well beyond the survey area. This species is not of conservation significance.

Page | 55 Robe River Mining Co. Pty Ltd Mesa H – Level 2 Fauna Assessment, May 2016 Buddelundia ‘14hr’

This species was collected from the Breakaway habitat at site SRE08 and Riverine habitat at site MHT01. This morphospecies is widespread in the northern Hamersley Range and is commonly collected during fauna surveys (Simon Judd, pers. comm. 2016). This species is not of conservation significance.

Buddelundia ‘61’

This species was collected from sites SRE12 and OPP37 in the Breakaway habitat and Gorge Habitat. It was collected by Astron during a previous fauna survey at Bungaroo (Astron Environmental Services 2016a) adjacent to the survey area and is a potential SRE in the WAM category ‘Research and Expertise’. As in the Bungaroo fauna survey, it has been collected from multiple habitat types and seems to be a habitat generalist. The areas located north and west of the Mesa H survey area have not yet been surveyed for slaters and it is possible that the species also occurs in the wider area surrounding Mesa H (Simon Judd, pers. comm. 2016). The notion that the species was collected in habitat types extending beyond the survey area makes a wider distribution likely.

4.2.3.4 Pseudoscorpions

Four specimens of pseudoscorpions were collected in the current survey. They all belong to the arid- adapted family Olpiidae that is diverse in north-western Australia.

Beierolpium sp. 8/4

A single male of this morphotype was collected from Breakaway habitat at site SRE08. There is no taxonomic framework for species in this group of Beierolpium but these pseudoscorpions are commonly collected in fauna surveys, often very abundant, and currently considered widespread fauna.

Indolpium sp. indet.

Three specimens of Indolpium were collected from Drainage Line habitat (site SRE09) and Breakaway habitat (site SRE08). Indolpium is the most commonly collected pseudoscorpion genus in the Pilbara and are currently understood to comprise widespread species. This species of pseudoscorpion is not considered SRE fauna.

4.2.3.5 Scorpions

Six scorpion species were collected in the current survey. Five species belong to the genus Lychas and one species belongs to the genus Urodacus. Two species of Lychas are potential SRE species in the WAM category ‘Molecular Evidence’ (Dolman 2016) whereas the remaining four species are widespread.

Lychas ‘sp. nov. 1’

Two specimens of this species were collected from sites MHT01 and RVM13 and tentatively assigned to Lychas ‘multipunctatus’ by Erich Volschenk based on morphology. Both specimens were sequenced by WAM staff and do in fact represent a currently undescribed species that differs from Lychas ‘multipunctatus’ and other commonly collected species of Lychas in the Pilbara, such as Lychas ‘hairy-tail’. It is currently not possible to estimate the distribution range of Lychas ‘sp. nov. 1’ and the species is classified a potential SRE in the sub-category ‘Molecular Evidence’. The specimens

Page | 56 Robe River Mining Co. Pty Ltd Mesa H – Level 2 Fauna Assessment, May 2016 were collected from Riverine habitat that extends beyond the survey area. This may indicate a wider distribution of the species and future field work may establish a wider distribution.

Lychas ‘sp. nov. 2’

Three specimens of this species were collected from the Loamy/Stony Plains habitat at site MHT03 (Plate 1c). One specimen (WAM T141172) was sequenced but there are no genetic matches in the databases of the WAM. As such, it is not possible to estimate the distribution range of this species based on molecular data. Using a precautionary approach, the species is classified as a potential SRE in the sub-category ‘Molecular Evidence’. Based on morphology, the specimens could possibly be conspecific with Lychas ‘gracilimanus’ which is an informally described species by Erich Volschenk but no DNA sequences are available in the WAM database for this species. Lychas ‘gracilimanus’ is also considered a potential SRE by Erich Volschenk but has been previously collected during fauna surveys in the Pilbara, including a location north-east of Mile Camp and Bonney Downs Homestead (290 km east of the survey area) (Phoenix Environmental Sciences 2014a).

Lychas ‘harveyi’

This is a widespread and commonly collected species with a distribution that encompasses most of arid Western Australia. A single specimen was collected from the Low Hills and Slopes habitat at site RVM15. This species is not of conservation concern.

Lychas ‘multipunctatus’-group

Lychas ‘multipunctatus’ was long considered a widespread morphological species but recent molecular work at the WAM has shown that it comprises several genetically distinct lineages that may represent separate species (Plate 1d). Two specimens of Lychas ‘multipunctatus’ were sequenced by WAM for this project (T141176 and TT141177) and they indeed belong to Lychas ‘multipunctatus’ as recognised by Erich Volschenk, with genetic divergences from other sequenced specimens < 3.6% (Dolman 2016). Lychas ‘multipuncatus’ is an undescribed species and there is some uncertainty about its distribution range because the taxonomy has yet to be formalised. However, a corroborated approach of both morphology and molecular data suggests that the distribution of this species may be wider than 10,000 km2. The two specimens collected here are from the Loamy/Stony Plains habitat (site MHT02); a habitat type that extends beyond the survey area. Morphologically similar specimens have also been collected during the Middle Robe/East Deepdale survey (Astron Environmental Services 2016b), supporting the idea of a widespread distribution.

Lychas ‘pilbara 1’

This undescribed species is widespread in the Pilbara bioregion and not of conservation significance (Erich Volschenk, pers. comm. 2016). Two specimens were collected from the Low Hills and Slopes habitat at site RVM15.

Urodacus megamastigus Two specimens of this rather large species were collected from Loamy/Stony Plains habitat at site MHT02. This species is widespread in arid Western Australia (Atlas of Living Australia 2015) and not of conservation significance.

Page | 57 Robe River Mining Co. Pty Ltd Mesa H – Level 2 Fauna Assessment, May 2016 4.2.3.6 Spiders

Three spider species belonging to SRE groups were collected in the current survey: the mygalomorph spider Aname mellosa, and the selenopid spider species Karaops feedtime (Crews 2013) and Karaops sp. indet.

Aname mellosa

Two specimens of wishbone spiders (genus Aname) were collected from sites MHT02 and RVM14 in the Loamy Stony Plains and Low Hills and Slopes habitats respectively. These specimens were juvenile and DNA sequencing was undertaken by WAM staff to clarify their status. One of these specimens was identified as Aname mellosa whereas the DNA amplification for the second specimen failed. However, given that both specimens share an almost identical morphology we also consider this to belong to Aname mellosa. A recent review of the genus Aname in the Pilbara (Harvey et al. 2012) suggests that Aname mellosa is a widespread species despite high genetic divergences between populations that may indicate some degree of population isolation (Dolman 2016). This species is not of conservation concern and widespread in the Pilbara. It is possible that the specimens collected by Biota Environmental Sciences (Biota Environmental Sciences 2011) during the Rove Valley Mesas fauna survey in this area also belong to Aname mellosa but additional genetic analyses would be required to test this.

Karaops feedtime and Karaopos sp. indet.

Two juvenile specimens of selenopid spiders (genus Karaops) were collected from Breakaway habitat and a drainage culvert (Plate 1a). DNA analyses indicate these specimens belong to two distinct species. Specimen T141164 from site Opp38 most likely belongs to the more widespread Karaops feedtime (Crews 2013) but the genetic data are somewhat inconclusive and the specimen may also represent a new species that is genetically and morphologically similar to Karaops feedtime (Dolman 2016). Considering this uncertainty, this sample is conservatively classified as a potential SRE species in the WAM sub-category ‘Data Deficient’ but referred to as Karaops feedtime throughout this report to avoid confusion. We note that this specimen was collected from a disturbed site and may be more generalist in habitat choice. The second sequenced specimen T141165 from Site SRE8 belongs to currently undescribed species of Karaops with an unknown distribution (Dolman 2016). All other sequenced specimens of this species are from an area < 10,000 km2 from Mesa H and Karaops sp. indet. is therefore classified as a potential SRE in the ‘Data Deficient’ sub-category. This species was collected from Breakaway habitat, which is the preferred habitat of selenopid spiders.

Page | 58 Robe River Mining Co. Pty Ltd Mesa H – Level 2 Fauna Assessment, May 2016

Plate 1: Examples of species in SRE groups collected within the survey area. A, Karaops feedtime (T141164); B, Kwonkan sp. (T141166); C, Lychas ‘sp. nov 2’ (T141172); D, Lychas ‘multipunctatus’ (T141176); E, Lychas ‘sp. nov. 1’ (T141171); F, Lychas ‘pilbara1’. Scale Bars = 2mm.

Page | 59 Robe River Mining Co. Pty Ltd Mesa H – Level 2 Fauna Assessment, May 2016 5 Discussion

5.1 Vertebrate Fauna

5.1.1 Habitats

Habitats within the survey area are not restricted at the local, sub-regional or regional scale and no restricted or uncommon geological units or land systems occur within the survey area. The Gorge and Breakaway habitats in the survey area are considered significant for fauna. Deeply incised gorges, characteristic of the Hamersley subregion, generally have high levels of species endemism and diversity, and are considered important as refugia in a local context (Kendrick 2001). This is due to the microhabitats they provide such as caves and semi-permanent water pools, which were recorded during the current survey. Gorge and Breakaway habitats are considered suitable for several MNES species including the Pilbara Olive Python, Northern Quoll, Ghost Bat and Pilbara Leaf- nosed Bat (for foraging) that were all recorded during this survey. Seven caves classified as day roosts for Ghost Bats were recorded in the survey area, none of which are deemed suitable as maternal roost sites. In a regional context, the Gorge and Breakaway habitats in the Pilbara are restricted to the Chichester and Hamersley Ranges but they are well represented in these areas.

The Riverine habitat in the survey area is considered significant for fauna. The deep pools and shallow spring fed pools provide an important permanent water source for drinking and a refuge for amphibians and waterfowl that occur in a wide area up and downstream of the survey area. This habitat contains microhabitats not common in other habitat types such as large tree hollows, hollow logs and moist leaf litter which provide a productive ecosystem attracting and supporting a range of predators and prey. This habitat supports conservation listed fauna species such as the Rainbow Bee-eater and Pilbara Olive Python and acts as foraging sites for Northern Quolls, Ghost Bats and Pilbara Leaf-nosed Bats. The survey area contains some of the most significant pools in the area (such as Yerra Bluff) that are significant ecological features to the local fauna both up and downstream. The springs and pools of the Robe River that occur in the survey area are considered wetlands of sub-regional significance (Kendrick 2001).

The gullies and valleys of the Rocky Hills habitat type also contain caves and rock crevices and are likely to be utilised by a range of species, including those of conservation significance. This habitat type has a distinct herpetofauna assemblage due to the presence of a number of rocky habitat specialists, including Varanus pilbarensis, Egernia cygnitos, Ctenotus rubicundus and Anilios ganei. The Rocky Hills habitat is widespread and common throughout the Pilbara bioregion and is not restricted to the Chichester and Hamersley Ranges.

The Drainage Line habitats within the survey area are mainly the broad valley of the Robe River or minor ephemeral drainage lines that are not likely to provide significant refugia for species. Drainage Line habitats, although not necessarily large in terms of area, are common habitats within the Pilbara region and immediate surrounds, e.g. the Robe River.

The Low Hills and Slopes and Loamy/Stony Plains in the survey area provide fewer microhabitat opportunities for terrestrial fauna and are also more widespread in the immediate vicinity as well as the Hamersley subregion and wider Pilbara bioregion.

Page | 60 Robe River Mining Co. Pty Ltd Mesa H – Level 2 Fauna Assessment, May 2016 5.1.2 Species

5.1.2.1 General Assemblage

There were 169 vertebrate fauna species, comprising two amphibians, 55 reptiles, 85 birds and 27 mammals (including four introduced species) recorded within the survey area during the current surveys. This compares to 151, 204, 181, 148 and 147 species recorded from the wider Pannawonica area (Astron Environmental Services 2016a, 2016b; Biota Environmental Sciences 2006, 2007, 2010), respectively. The fauna species assemblage recorded during the current survey is considered typical of the Hamersley Range subregion extending from near Pannawonica to Mt Brockman as well as a subset of typical fauna assemblages across the Pilbara bioregion.

The number of reptile and amphibian species recorded (57 species) is consistent with that recorded during other dual phase surveys in the vicinity (47 to 64 species in comparable surveys) (Astron Environmental Services 2016a, 2016b; Biota Environmental Sciences 2006, 2007, 2010). Again the number of bird species recorded during the survey (85 species) is consistent with other dual season surveys conducted in the area (70 to 107 species) (Astron Environmental Services 2016a, 2016b; Biota Environmental Sciences 2007, 2010). However, this number is slightly lower than expected given the large water pools recorded within the survey area. Many species of waterfowl recorded elsewhere were not recorded during the current survey (phase 1 and 2). This may be because the survey area received poor rainfall preceding the phase 2 survey and the amount of surface water during the post wet season survey was relatively lower than normal. The current surveys (phase 1 and 2) recorded a comparatively high number of mammal species (27 species) compared to other dual season surveys in the vicinity (16 to 31 species). This was mainly due to the high number of bat species recorded; nine species were recorded in the current survey using acoustic recordings, whereas only two bat species were previously recorded by Biota Environmental Sciences (2007) using harp nets.

5.1.2.2 Conservation Significant Species

Of the 28 conservation significant species identified in the literature review, eight species have been previously recorded or were recorded during the current survey. An additional two species were considered to have a ‘high’ likelihood of occurrence (Anilios ganei and Eastern Great Egret), 11 species to have a ‘moderate’ likelihood and eight species to have a ‘low’ likelihood.

Target MNES Species

The Gorge and Breakaway habitats within the survey area were considered suitable for the target MNES species: Pilbara Olive Python, Ghost Bat, Pilbara Leaf-nosed Bat and Northern Quoll. The current survey included a targeted search for these species. The majority of the survey area was mapped as low habitat suitability for the target MNES species; Northern Quoll, Ghost Bat, Pilbara Leaf-nosed Bat and Pilbara Olive Python (94%, 82%, 83% and 82% of the survey area classified as low habitat suitability, respectively). Low potential habitat for all four species generally comprised areas of disturbed habitat, Loamy/Stony Plain and Low Hills and Slopes habitats. These habitats contained no significant refugia or shelter, or semi-permanent or permanent water.

A single juvenile Pilbara Olive Python was recorded within the Riverine habitat and two scats were recorded within the Breakaway habitat type during the survey. This species is likely to be found within the Gorge, Breakaway and Riverine habitats particularly in the locations that contain semi- permanent and permanent water, which has been defined as their preferred habitat (Pearson 1993). The Rocky Hills and Drainage Line habitats (particularly those that contain permanent or semi- permanent pools) are considered suitable foraging and dispersal habitat for the Pilbara Olive Python.

Page | 61 Robe River Mining Co. Pty Ltd Mesa H – Level 2 Fauna Assessment, May 2016 All other habitats were considered to provide limited foraging and dispersal habitat for the Pilbara Olive Python.

The Northern Quoll was one of the more commonly recorded mammals within the survey area and was recorded 27 separate times during the survey. The majority of these records occurred in Breakaway habitats, but some records occurred within Riverine and Gorge habitat types. The Gorge and Breakaway habitats are considered potential shelter and foraging habitat for the Northern Quoll. The Riverine and Rocky Hills are also considered suitable foraging and dispersal habitats for the Northern Quoll.

In the Pilbara, Northern Quolls are generally associated with rocky habitats, although records of this species in the Riverine habitats and the presence of permanent water close to rocky habitats, suggest that it is an important foraging site for this species. All other habitats were considered to provide limited foraging and dispersal habitat for the Northern Quoll. Based on the high number of camera triggers and captures (Department of the Environment and Energy 2016) the survey area (specifically the Gorge and Breakaway habitats) supports a permanent, high density population of Northern Quolls.

The Ghost Bat was recorded twice during the current survey through scat collections and acoustic recordings from SM2 bat detectors. This includes acoustic recordings on four separate occasions and from scat piles within temporary feed caves (Figure I.1 and Table I.1, Appendix I). Seven caves have been previously identified in the 2014 survey of Mesa H (Astron Environmental Services 2014); these were deemed potential day roosts due to their size, complexity and the presence of Ghost Bat scats (Figure I.1 and Table I.1, Appendix I). Larger caves suitable for maternity roosts appear to be absent from the survey area. The Gorge and Breakaway habitat was categorised as providing foraging and shelter habitat due to the presence of day roost caves and feed caves.

The Pilbara Leaf-nosed Bat was recorded at eight of the 14 SM2 bat detector locations that were all deemed to be at low activity levels, apart from BAT 14 which recorded 257 calls (which is classified as having high call activity levels) (Bat Call WA 2016). Further data and analysis of the BAT 14 site suggests that the Pilbara Leaf-nosed Bats likely originated from a known roost site approximately 10 km south of the survey area (Bat Call WA 2016).

Pilbara Leaf-nosed Bat calls were recorded infrequently from a variety of habitats throughout the survey area, including Low Hills and Slopes, Gorge and Riverine habitats. The timing of calls from acoustic recordings suggests that the Pilbara Leaf-nosed Bats within the survey area originate from a known roost outside the survey (Bat Call WA 2016). The occurrence of Pilbara Leaf-nosed Bats within the survey area is likely to be influenced by the presence of water pools (typically persisting within deeply incised, shaded gorges) and major drainage lines with dense vegetation (Specialised Zoological 2010). The Pilbara Leaf-nosed Bat requires deep, humid, climatically stable caves for diurnal and maternal roost sites. The caves located in the Gorge habitat of the survey area do not fit these criteria however they can be classified as nocturnal refuge caves (Department of the Environment 2017) that are occupied or entered at night for resting or feeding.

Other Conservation Significant Species

Other conservation significant species recorded from within the survey area include the Western Pebble-mound Mouse, Rainbow Bee-eater and Lined Soil-crevice Skink.

Five inactive mounds from the Western Pebble-mound Mouse (P4) were recorded all within the Low Hills and Slopes habitat type during the fauna survey (Figure I.1 and Table I.1, Appendix I). Generally this species prefer gentle rocky slopes, hills and spurs. As such, the Low Hills and Slopes and Rocky

Page | 62 Robe River Mining Co. Pty Ltd Mesa H – Level 2 Fauna Assessment, May 2016 Hills habitats of the survey area are likely to support this species. These habitats that are suitable for the Western Pebble-mound Mouse are also widespread and common adjacent to the survey area.

The Rainbow Bee-eater was recorded on numerous occasions throughout the survey area during both phases of the fauna survey in almost all habitats including Riverine, Drainage Line, Loamy/Stony Plains, Low Hills and Slopes, Gorge and Breakaway habitats. This species is highly mobile and generally less reliant on specific habitats.

The Lined Soil-crevice Skink was captured on five occasions during the survey at three trapping grids (MHT03, RVM14 and RVM15); both within the Loamy/Stony Plains and the Low Hills and Slopes habitat types (Figure I.1 and Table I.1, Appendix I). Suitable habitats also exist adjacent to the survey area and are common within the wider region.

5.2 SRE Invertebrates

5.2.1 Habitats

Prospective SRE habitats within the survey area are not restricted at the local, sub-regional or regional scale. Gorge habitats are islands of high moisture retention and usually refugia for moisture-dependent SRE fauna, with some potential for dispersal-restriction in species present. Breakaway habitats are also expected to be rich in microrefugia and offer potential for specialist SRE fauna. Together, these habitats comprise only 2% of the survey area. Neither Breakaway nor Gorge habitats were found to support rich SRE communities with only two potential SREs collected in these habitats. Riverine habitat was also not overly rich in SRE fauna with only one potential SRE species recorded.

Although there is a variety of a potential SRE habitat types, the diversity of SRE fauna is comparatively low. The survey area has as many habitat types as Bungaroo (Astron Environmental Services 2016a) and Middle Robe/East Deepdale (Astron Environmental Services 2016b) but it appears to support less diverse SRE communities and fewer potential SRE species.

Overall, the habitat assessment indicates that potential SRE species in the survey area should be widespread due to the wider occurrence of similar habitats within the Hamersley subregion and Pilbara bioregion. The Bungaroo and Middle Robe/East Deepdale surveys (Astron Environmental Services 2016a, 2016b) contained similar habitats to the survey area and many species in SRE groups, including some potential SRE species, have ranges that encompass all these different survey areas. There are no habitat types unique to the survey area and the habitat types and landforms are common in the vicinity of the Mesa H survey area.

5.2.2 Species

A total of 36 specimens belonging to at least 14 invertebrate morphospecies were collected from the survey area, with six potential SRE species identified. Scorpions were the most diverse group with seven species and 12 specimens, followed by slaters (three species; 16 specimens), spiders (three species; four specimens) and pseudoscorpions (two species; four specimens). This is comparable to the six potential SRE species collected at Middle Robe/East Deepdale and the eight species collected at Bungaroo in 2015. This number is much lower than the 19 potential SRE species collected during earlier fauna surveys at Bungaroo South (Phoenix Environmental Sciences 2014b) and the 10 potential SRE species collected in the wider Bungaroo area (Biota Environmental Sciences 2010). The deviation between the 2015/16 surveys and the earlier surveys may reflect differences in sampling design, survey timing and also an increased knowledge of species taxonomy and distributions of

Page | 63 Robe River Mining Co. Pty Ltd Mesa H – Level 2 Fauna Assessment, May 2016 Pilbara invertebrate fauna. Certainly, the diversity of landforms in the survey area is lower than in some of the previously surveyed areas and may account for some of the differences.

None of the species recorded within the survey area are listed as Threatened or Priority species under State or Federal legislation. The two listed dragonfly species were not seen or collected and are unlikely to occur in the survey area. Based on the survey results, the majority of the species were not considered to be, or are unlikely to be, SREs. No confirmed SRE species were collected but five species were considered potential SRE species:

• slaters: Buddelundia ‘61’ • scorpions: Lychas ‘sp. nov. 1’ and Lychas ‘sp. nov. 2’ • spiders: Karaops feedtime and Karaops sp. indet.

The potential SRE slater Buddelundia ‘61’ was collected from multiple habitat types that extend far beyond the survey area. This species has been collected during previous fauna surveys in the surrounding area (Astron Environmental Services 2016a) and clearly has a range that is much wider than the survey area.

The scorpions Lychas ‘sp. nov. 1’ and Lychas ‘sp. nov. 2’ were identified using DNA sequence data and are treated here as potential SREs primarily because there were no matching sequences in the databases of the WAM. As such, the distribution ranges cannot be inferred from the data available. It is likely that both species are more widespread and future genetic work is likely to show a wider distribution, following the more widespread nature of the habitat types in which the species were collected. Morphologically similar specimens have been collected from other areas of the western Pilbara (Astron Environmental Services 2016a, 2016b) but genetic work still needs to be undertaken on these samples.

The two spider-species were collected from juveniles and identified using DNA sequence data. Karaops feedtime is classified as a potential SRE. As this species was collected from a disturbed site it is certainly more widespread, as has been suggested by the genetic data. Karaops sp. indet. is also classified as a potential SRE and was collected from the Breakaway habitat. However, genetically similar specimens have been collected from localities outside the Mesa H survey area and the species is clearly more widespread. Specimens of Karaops have also been collected previously during fauna surveys at Bungaroo and Middle Robe/East Deepdale (Astron Environmental Services 2016a, 2016b) that may also belong to these species.

Overall, the survey data indicated that species richness for SREs was lower in the survey area than in other areas of the western Pilbara. All but one potential SRE species were collected from habitat types that extend far beyond the survey area. Three of the five potential SREs have also been collected during previous fauna surveys (Astron Environmental Services 2016a, 2016b) and have established ranges that are much wider than the survey area. The habitat types that are usually considered prospective for SRE fauna (Gorges and Breakaways) did not support rich SRE communities and no habitat type was unique to the survey area.

Page | 64 Robe River Mining Co. Pty Ltd Mesa H – Level 2 Fauna Assessment, May 2016 6 References

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