Southern EL 3251
Fauna Survey
Client: Heathgate Resources Pty Ltd
May 2006 Environmental and Biodiversity Services
Table of Contents
Acknowledgements ...... 1
Executive Summary...... 2
1. Introduction ...... 3
1.1 Site description ...... 3 1.2 Climate ...... 4 1.3 Land use...... 4
2. Methodology...... 7
2.1 Background research...... 7 2.2 Field survey ...... 7 2.3 Trapping sites ...... 7 2.4 Pitfall traps...... 7 2.5 Elliott traps...... 7 2.6 Cage traps ...... 8 2.7 Active searching...... 8 2.8 Bird survey...... 8 2.9 Spotlighting...... 8 2.10 Anabat bat detector...... 8 2.11 Harp traps...... 9 2.12 Opportunistic observations...... 9 2.13 Weather conditions ...... 9
3. Fauna habitats within the project site...... 10
3.1 Sclerolaena spp. Herbland on high and low gibber plains ...... 10 3.2 Eucalyptus camaldulensis Very Open Woodland ...... 11 3.3 Eremophila spp. / Acacia spp. / Santalum lanceolatum Tall Shrubland ...... 11 3.4 Acacia victoriae Tall Shrubland over chenopods...... 11
4. Survey results ...... 12
4.1 Mammals ...... 12 4.2 Reptiles and amphibians...... 13 4.3 Birds ...... 14 4.4 Comparison between survey sites and habitats ...... 14 4.5 Comparison with previous fauna records ...... 15
5. Discussion ...... 16
5.1 General discussion ...... 16 5.2 Birds ...... 17 5.3 Mammals ...... 17 5.4 Reptiles and amphibians...... 18
6. Recommendations ...... 20
References ...... 21
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Appendix 1 M Trapping sites for the Beverley Fauna Survey ...... 22
Appendix 2 M Trapping effort for the Beverley Fauna Survey ...... 23
Appendix 3 M Mammal species recorded during the Beverley Fauna Survey ...... 24
Appendix 4 M Reptile species recorded during the Beverley Fauna Survey...... 25
Appendix 5 M Bird species recorded during the Beverley Fauna Survey...... 26
Appendix 6 M Fauna species previously recorded within or in the vicinity of the project area ...... 28
Appendix 7 - General site photographs ...... 32
Southern EL 3251Fauna Survey Environmental and Biodiversity Services
Acknowledgements
The survey team comprised of the following people:
Dr Travis How (Environmental and Biodiversity Services) M Survey Co- ordinator Dr Leanne Pound (Environmental and Biodiversity Services) M Field Assistant Gavin Baird (Environmental and Biodiversity Services) M Field Assistant Loraine Jansen (Sub-consultant) M Mammals Graham Carpenter (Sub-consultant) M Birds John Morley (Volunteer)
We would like to thank the following people for their assistance and for information provided during the project:
Mal Wedd (Environment Manager, Exploration & Development Group M Heathgate Resources Pty Ltd) Sue Carter (Senior Environmental Officer, Heathgate Resources Pty Ltd) Sally Modystach (Project Co-ordinator M URS Australia Pty Ltd) Frank Badman (Badman Environmental M Vegetation) Mark Hutchinson (Reptiles M South Australian Museum) Lynne Kajar (Field Equipment M Department for Environment and Heritage) Matt McDowell (Biological Survey Co-ordinator M South Australian Museum) Terry Reardon (Bats M South Australian Museum) Carolyn Secombe (Reptiles M South Australian Museum) David Stemmer (Mammals M South Australian Museum) Cath Kemper (Mammals M South Australian Museum)
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Executive Summary
A fauna survey was conducted in the southern half of the Exploration Lease 3251 (an area surrounding the existing Beverley Uranium Mine), north east of Arkaroola, South Australia in March 2006.
A total of nine sites representing four different habitat types were surveyed for fauna species following a standard biological survey methodology developed by the Department for Environment and Heritage (Owens 2000). The dominant habitat types within the project area were: Sclerolaena spp. Herbland on high and low gibber plains (would be a Mitchell Grass (Astrebla pectinata) plain in better years) Eucalyptus camaldulensis Very Open Woodland Eremophila spp. / Acacia spp. / Santalum lanceolatum Tall Shrubland Acacia victoriae Tall Shrubland over chenopods
Major findings of the survey were:
Mammals - A total of 147 observations of 20 mammal species were made, of which only four are considered to be introduced.
Reptiles - A total of 84 observations of 24 reptile species were made, all of which were native species. No amphibian species were observed however little suitable habitat was observed within the project area.
Birds - A total of 892 observations of 48 bird species were made, with only one of these an introduced species.
No species of conservation significance were observed during the survey. However, one notable capture was a Pseudomys hermannsburgensis (Sandy Inland Mouse). This record (voucher specimen lodged with the South Australian Museum) is a range extension for this species of over 80km.
Gunninah Environmental Consultants completed a fauna survey at the Beverley Mine site as part of the Environmental Impact Statement in 1998. A total of six sites were implemented and the survey was undertaken over a six night period. A similar list of fauna species was recorded compared to the current survey. The Gunninah 1998 survey recorded four reptile species, four mammal species and 20 bird species which were not recorded in the current survey. The current survey recorded three reptile species, two mammal species and ten bird species which were not recorded in the Gunninah 1998 survey. None of the additional species recorded by Gunninah in 1998 were of conservation significance.
The annual fauna monitoring at the Beverley Mine site, which re-surveys the trapping site put in by Gunninah Environmental Consultants, has recorded an additional two bird species and three reptile species which were not recorded by Gunninah or during the current fauna survey. None of the additional species are considered to be of conservation significance.
It is recommended that mining operation in the area be planned and undertaken such that the impact on the biological environment, including habitat for fauna species, is minimised. An appropriate monitoring program should be incorporated in the Mining and Rehabilitation Program.
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1. Introduction
This report documents a fauna survey undertaken in the southern half of the Exploration Lease 3251 in an adjacent to the existing Beverley Uranium Mine. The existing project site is approximately 600 km north of Adelaide and 30 km north east of Arkaroola. The field survey component of the project was undertaken in March 2006 and involved surveying nine sites within a 2.5 kilometre radius of the existing mine site, within the study area (see Figure 1).
The uranium mine at Beverley has been previously subject to fauna surveys and studies including a survey undertaken by Close and Williams (1979) of the original mine area followed by a survey by Gunninah Environmental Consultants (1998) also of the original mine area. Recently, regular fauna surveys have been undertaken at the site as part of the annual monitoring program (for example Carter 2004). The region around the Beverley Uranium Mine has been previously surveyed with surveys being undertaken by Medlin (2003) and Playfair and Robinson (1997).
The objectives of this fauna study were to:
Undertake a review of existing data and previous reports for the study area and surrounding region;
Undertake intensive field surveys to establish baseline data for the Beverley Uranium Mine Additional Mineral Leases area;
Determine the presence or likely presence of fauna species or fauna habitat listed under State and Commonwealth legislation;
Liaise with the relevant authorities (primarily the South Australian Museum and Department for Environment and Heritage) in relation to areas or species of concern;
To prepare a report documenting the findings from the background research and field surveys. The report will also provide recommendations on avoiding or minimising possible and likely impacts on fauna species within and adjacent to the project area.
1.1 Site description
The existing Beverley Uranium Mine is located approximately 600 km north of Adelaide and 30 km north east of Arkaroola. The current project site comprises an area of approximately 10 km2 (Figure 1).
The study area is located within the Balcanoona Environmental Association (6.2.5) which is characterised by a mixed coverage of low chenopod shrubland, grassland, tall shrubland over grasses and ephemeral forbs, and fringing woodland (Laut et al. 1977).
One major ephemeral creek line (Four Mile Creek) occurs within the study area. Four Mile Creek is dominated by large River Red Gums (Eucalyptus camaldulensis)and Melaleuca (Melaleuca glomerata) and is characterised by dry sandy channels. The study area also contains a number of minor drainage lines. The minor drainage lines contain a mix of vegetation including Tall Shrublands and Open River Red Gum
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Woodlands. All drainage lines in the study area are ephemeral and would only flow after high volumes of rainfall are received. However, it is likely that at times the volume of water contained within the drainage lines would be very high.
1.2 Climate
The study area site is within an arid region typified by low and erratic rainfall events. The average rainfall for the nearby weather station at Arkaroola is 254 mm (30 year average 1960 - 1990). On average the majority of the rainfall falls between January and March each year with consistent but low rainfall in the other months. The average maximum temperatures range from 34.0oC in January down to 16.3oC in July. Regular days in excess of 40oC occur within the summer and early autumn months. The average minimum daily temperature ranges from 19.6oC in January to 3.2oC in July. The minimum temperature during the winter months regularly drops below 0oC.
1.3 Land use
The study area is located on a pastoral lease, Wooltana Station, with cattle currently being grazed within the project area. It appears that over-grazing by cattle, rabbits and possibly kangaroos has occurred in the past with evidence of erosion present. The vegetation communities within close proximity to watering points have been grazed particularly hard with large areas of bare ground existing within these locations.
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Figure 1 General location of Beverley Uranium Mine Additional Leases fauna survey site
Beverley Uranium Mine Fauna Survey Site
South Australia
Site Location
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Figure 2 Location of survey sites
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2. Methodology
2.1 Background research
Background research into the project area included undertaking a literature review and database searches. Previous fauna survey reports in the area (Gunninah Environmental Consultants 1998 (for the Beverley Uranium Mine EIS), Playfair and Robinson 1997, Carter 2004) were reviewed to determine the fauna species which have been previously recorded within the area and additional species which may occur in the area. The databases managed by the South Australian Museum and Department for Environment and Heritage were searched with an area 25 km x 25 km centred on the project site being searched.
The scientific and common names for fauna species used in this report follow Robinson et al (2000).
2.2 Field survey
A detailed field survey was undertaken over a seven day period between the 15th and 21st of March 2006. A range of survey techniques were utilised for the project, all of which were based on the standard biological survey methodology developed by the Department for Environment and Heritage (Owens 2000). Pitfall traps, Elliott traps, cage traps, harp traps, spotlighting, active searching and the use of an Anabat detector were all employed at selected sites within the survey area. Opportunistic sightings of fauna were also made, generally whilst travelling between trapping sites.
2.3 Trapping sites
Trapping sites were set up at nine locations across the project area (Figure 2 and Appendix 1). Different fauna habitat types were targeted by the survey to maximise the species observed. At each trapping site two trapping lines were installed as per the method for pastoral areas (Owens 2000). A trap line consisted of six pitfall traps, 15 Elliott traps and two cage traps. The trap lines were placed in the same habitat at each site and were generally between 100 and 200 m apart. Trap lines were open for four nights at each site. Further details on the methods used are detailed in the following sections. The trapping effort for each site is detailed in Appendix 2.
2.4 Pitfall traps
QGuidelines for R (Owens 2000). Briefly, six pitfall traps were installed for each trap line. Traps were placed 10 m apart with a 60 m long mesh fence installed to connect the traps. Surface spray was utilised for ant control at traps where ant activity was noticeably high. All pitfall traps were left open for four nights.
2.5 Elliott traps
Elliott traps were installed as detailed by Owens (2000). Fifteen traps were installed for each trap line, with a total of 30 traps used at each site. Elliott traps were placed 10m apart and baited using rolled oats and peanut butter. Generally, all Elliott trap lines ran parallel with the pitfall trap lines and the traps were placed on the ground.
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2.6 Cage traps
Cage traps were utilised as per the vertebrate survey guidelines (Owens 2000). At all sites two cage traps were installed at each trap line, with a total of four cage traps per trapping site. The cage traps were left open for a total of four nights per site and were baited with a rolled oats and peanut butter mixture.
2.7 Active searching
Active searching was undertaken at trapping sites to increase the number of species observed at each site. This was done by lifting rocks, rolling logs, digging burrows and peeling bark. Numerous species, particularly reptiles, were observed using this method. Active searching was undertaken within the trapping sites as well as at several sites which were not trapped but had good quality habitat present.
All of the trapping sites were searched for a minimum of one hour. A number of sites were searched for more than two hours in total. Appendix 2 details a summary of the active searching at each of the trap sites.
2.8 Bird survey
At each of the trapping sites, bird surveys were undertaken. This involved spending a minimum of one hour in the morning and one hour in the afternoon surveying for birds at each site. Observations of all bird species within the same habitat as the trapping site were made within this time.
2.9 Spotlighting
The spotlighting effort within the trapping sites was low due to cool evenings where no observations were made. However, opportunistic spotlighting from a vehicle was undertaken along tracks within the project area for more than seven hours.
The vehicle spotlighting was undertaken by slowly driving along dirt roads with handheld spotlights operating on both sides of the vehicle. Spotlighting was undertaken in the first couple of hours after sunset. The spotlighting at trapping sites and surrounding similar habitat was undertaken on foot using handheld spotlights.
2.10 Anabat bat detector
An Anabat detector was utilised on six nights. On five of the nights the Anabat detector was placed within trapping sites whilst on one night it was placed at the reed beds on an opportunistic basis. Appendix 2 details the sites where the Anabat detector was deployed.
The bat detector records the calls of bat species which can then be identified. A number of the calls are similar and therefore, some species cannot be separated by call identification only. Additionally, the bat detector will only give the presence of a species and not the abundance of a species. A high number of bat calls may be the result of a high number of bats calling a few times or a low number of bats calling a number of times.
The bat detector was set up late in the afternoon and picked up when the traps were checked the following morning. Therefore, the detector was recording from sunset to
Southern EL 3251Fauna Survey 8 Environmental and Biodiversity Services sunrise as a minimum (>12 hours). The files on the bat detector were downloaded onto a laptop each day to ensure the detector was working properly.
2.11 Harp traps
Harp traps were set up at three of the trapping sites. These were sites BEV00301, BEV00401 and BEV00501, all of which were within Four Mile Creek. The habitat within Four Mile Creek was considered more suitable for installing the harp traps increasing the likelihood of catching bats. The harp traps were also placed at two sites opportunistically, within the reed bed area and adjacent to the reed bed in Four Mile Creek.
Mist nets were not utilised as part of the survey due to a lack of suitable netting sites. Mist netting requires open water, such as dams, to be present to attract the bats. No dams with water were located within the study area.
2.12 Opportunistic observations
Opportunistic observations were made throughout the survey period. These observations were made of all fauna species observed outside of trapping sites. This included observations made whilst travelling between trapping sites. Additionally, several areas were searched which were not trapping sites as they were considered to contain good quality habitat. All observations within these areas were recorded as opportunistic records.
2.13 Weather conditions
The Fauna Survey was conducted between the 15th and 21st of March 2006. The maximum outside temperature gradually increased from 28.8oC on the 16th to 35.6oC on the 20th whilst the minimum outside temperature varied between 13.2oCand 17.2oC. The average maximum temperature across the survey period was 33.5oC whilst the average minimum temperature was 14.8oC. The weather during the survey period was fine with warm days and cool nights. There was only a slight cloud cover on the 21st whilst the remainder of the survey period was fine. There was a slight south easterly breeze present on most days of the survey period and no rain fall was recorded. The minimum and maximum temperatures recorded in the sun and shade at the Beverley Mine Exploration Camp during the fauna survey are presented in Table 1.
Table 1 Weather conditions during the Fauna Survey Date Temperature Comments Sun Shade Min Max Min Max 16/03/06 14oC 27.1oC Fine and sunny with a slight breeze 17/03/06 13.5oC 28.8oC 15.1oC 29.3oC Fine and sunny with a slight breeze 18/03/06 13.5oC 34.8oC 14.4oC 31.3oC Fine and sunny with a slight breeze 19/03/06 13.2oC 34.7oC 15.2oC 31.9oC Fine and sunny with a slight breeze 20/03/06 17.2oC 35.6oC18oC 32.3oC Fine and sunny with a slight breeze 21/03/06 16.5oC 18.1oC Fine and sunny with a slight breeze
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3. Fauna habitats within the project site
The project area consists of several habitat types, all of which have been heavily grazed. The different habitat types present within the project area provide habitat for a wide range of arid zone fauna species.
The dominant habitat types within the project area were:
Sclerolaena spp. Herbland on high and low gibber plains (would be a Mitchell Grass (Astrebla pectinata) plain in better years)
Eucalyptus camaldulensis Very Open Woodland
Eremophila spp. / Acacia spp. / Santalum lanceolatum Tall Shrubland
Acacia victoriae Tall Shrubland over chenopods
3.1 Sclerolaena spp. Herbland on high and low gibber plains
The Sclerolaena spp. Herbland was surveyed at sites BEV02201, BEV01001 and BEV01101. The gibber plains were the dominant vegetation community within the survey area. At the time of the survey they were dominated by Sclerolaena species, however, it is likely that if good summer rains occurred these plains would be dominated by Mitchell Grass (Astrebla pectinata).
The gibber habitats supported a lower diversity of plant species and little structural diversity was present. However, all of the survey areas within this habitat type contained cracking clays. The cracks in the clay provide excellent refuge for a range of fauna species including reptile species and small mammals.
Cracks in soil provide refuge for reptiles and small mammals.
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3.2 Eucalyptus camaldulensis Very Open Woodland
Sites BEV00301, BEV00401 and BEV00501 all contained the Eucalyptus camaldulensis Very Open Woodland. This vegetation community was found along Four Mile Creek where numerous channels in deep sandy soils lined with River Red Gums were observed. Patches of Melaleuca glomerata were also observed within this vegetation type with scattered grasses and the occasional Senna sp. or Eremophila sp.
The Eucalyptus camaldulensis Open Woodland contained valuable fauna habitat as the mature trees contained numerous hollows and excellent food resources for a range of species. The hollows would be relied upon for roosting and breeding by a number of bird and bat species with few other suitable hollows observed within the project area outside of the Eucalyptus camaldulensis Open Woodland areas.
3.3 Eremophila spp. / Acacia spp. / Santalum lanceolatum Tall Shrubland
The Eremophila spp. / Acacia spp. / Santalum lanceolatum Tall Shrubland was surveyed at sites BEV00801 and BEV01301. This vegetation type was observed within the minor creek lines which traversed the survey area. This community offers a range of habitat for fauna species including nesting, roosting and foraging resources. The larger shrubs also offer excellent shelter for the larger macropods during the day.
The majority of minor creek lines were narrow with a single channel lined with the tall shrubs. Scattered Eucalyptus camaldulensis were also be found along some of the minor creek lines, however, these were generally smaller trees compared to those along Four Mile Creek.
3.4 Acacia victoriae Tall Shrubland over chenopods
One site, BEV02001, contained a vegetation community of Acacia victoriae Tall Shrubland over chenopod shrubs. This vegetation community occurred adjacent to Four Mile Creek and was within the floodplain area of the creek. The understorey was dominated by chenopods, such as Rhagodia spinescens and Maireana aphylla. Scattered Eremophila spp. and Senna spp. also occurred within this vegetation type.
The Acacia victoriae Tall Shrubland offers good quality habitat for a range of fauna species. Due to the prickly nature of Acacia victoriae and Rhagodia spinescens,this vegetation offers excellent nesting and roosting opportunities for a range of bird species whilst the low shrubs provide cover for a range of reptiles.
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4. Survey results
4.1 Mammals
A total of 147 observations of 20 mammal species were made during the current fauna survey. Four of the mammal species are considered to be introduced and one species from the Canidae family was only identified to genus level. Appendix 3 summarises the survey data from the trapping sites and data collected opportunistically.
The record of the Canis sp. was made at site BEV00501 where two pitfall traps had been disturbed. Large dog footprints were observed in the sand and bite marks were made on the pits. The animal was not observed and therefore could not be identified to species level. The other introduced species observed during the survey were the Feral Cat, Rabbit and Cattle. It is also likely that foxes occur within the project site as they have been previously recorded in the area (Gunninah 1998).
The most common mammal species observed at trapping sites during the survey were the Red Kangaroo (Macropus rufus), and the Rabbit (Oryctolagus cuniculus), with 24 and 14 individuals observed respectively. The most common species caught in either Elliot or Pitfall traps were the Fat-tailed Dunnart (Sminthopsis crassicaudata) and the Stripe-faced Dunnart (Sminthopsis macroura), with 12 and 10 individuals captured respectively.
The most common species caught in harp traps was the Southern Freetail-bat (small penis) (Mormopterus planiceps) with total of 19 individuals captured. The most common species observed opportunistically were the Red Kangaroo (Macropus rufus) R Chalinolobus gouldii) each with seven individuals observed.
Two bat species, Vespadelus finlaysoni and Scotorepens balstoni, were only recorded using the Anabat detector. Both of these species were recorded opportunistically from the reed bed area. The identification of calls on the Anabat detector does not give any data on abundance. Therefore, in Appendix 3, only one individual per site was recorded and included in the discussions. It is likely that more than one individual of each species was present at each site.
a bc
The Eucalyptus camaldulensis in (a) was searched and found to contain a spout entrance to a potential roosting hollow for bats (b) with Mormopterus planiceps (small penis) caught in a harp trap set up next to the hollow (c).
Site BEV00401 (Eucalyptus camaldulensis Very Open Woodland) recorded the highest number of species with ten species being recorded at the site. Site
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BEV01301 (Eremophila spp. / Acacia spp. / Santalum lanceolatum Tall Shrubland) recorded the second highest number of species with nine whilst ten species were recorded opportunistically.
4.2 Reptiles and amphibians
A total of 84 observations of 24 reptile species were made during the current fauna survey. No amphibian species were observed during the current survey. Two reptile species were only identified to genus level due to the observations made of diggings (Varanus sp.) and a piece of shed skin (Pseudonaja sp.) and therefore 22 species were positively identified. There were 72 individuals of 21 species recorded from the trapping sites whilst a total of 12 observations of six species were made opportunistically at the trapping sites. Appendix 4 summarises the survey data from the trapping sites and data collected opportunistically.
The most common reptile species observed at trapping sites during the survey was theTreeDtella(Gehyra variegata) with 25 individuals observed. The next most common reptile species observed R (Heteronotia binoei) with eight individuals observed. The most common species caught in pitfall traps were the Tree Dtella (Gehyra variegata) and the Eastern Desert Ctenotus (Ctenotus regius), with 21 and five individuals captured respectively. The most common species observed opportunistically were the Tree Dtella (Gehyra variegata)and R Heteronotia binoei) each with four individuals observed.
The trapping site, which recorded the highest species diversity, was BEV02001, capturing seven reptile species. Two further trapping sites, BEV00401 and BEV00501 recorded a total of six reptile species. None of the reptile species captured are considered to be of conservation significance. However, one species, Brachyurophis fasciolatus (Narrow-banded Shovel-nosed Snake), is particularly cryptic and rarely caught. This is a species of burrowing snake which feeds on other small reptiles and their eggs.
Brachyurophis fasciolatus (Narrow-banded Shovel-nosed Snake)
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4.3 Birds
A total of 892 observations of 48 bird species were made during the current fauna survey. Appendix 5 summarises the survey data from the trapping sites and data collected opportunistically. Only one introduced species, the House Sparrow, was recorded for the duration of the survey.
There were 831 individuals of 43 species recorded from the trapping sites whilst a total of 61 observations of 16 species were made opportunistically at the trapping sites.
The most common bird species observed at trapping sites during the survey was the Galah (Cacatua roseicapilla) with 380 individuals observed. The next most common bird species observed were the Tree Martin (Hirundo nigricans) and the White- winged Fairy-wren (Malurus leucopterus) with 49 and 46 individuals observed respectively.
Site BEV00501 (Eucalyptus camaldulensis Very Open Woodland) had the highest diversity of bird species present as well as the highest number of individuals recorded (23 species and 207 individuals). Another Eucalyptus camaldulensis Very Open Woodland site (BEV00301) was the next most diverse site with 21 bird species recorded and 164 individuals. The least diverse sites were BEV02201 (five species and 18 individuals) and BEV01001 (six species and nine individuals) both of which contained the Sclerolaena spp. Herbland on the gibber plains.
None of the 48 bird species identified during the survey are considered to be of conservation significance.
4.4 Comparison between survey sites and habitats
Four habitat types were surveyed during the current survey. The Sclerolaena spp. Herbland occurred at three sites (BEV01001, BEV01101 and BEV02201) whilst Eucalyptus camaldulensis Very Open Woodland also occurred at three sites (BEV00301, BEV00401 and BEV00501). The Eremophila spp. / Acacia spp. / Santalum lanceolatum Tall Shrubland was present at two sites whilst the Acacia victoriae Tall Shrubland was present at one site.
Table 2 summarises the number of species and individuals recorded for each fauna group within each habitat type. Overall, the greatest number of both species and individuals was recorded from the Eucalyptus camaldulensis Very Open Woodland habitat with 56 species and 522 individuals recorded. The Sclerolaena spp. Herbland was found to be the least diverse, with 25 species recorded and 185 individuals. A greater number of species was recorded from the Eremophila spp. / Acacia spp. / Santalum lanceolatum Tall Shrubland compared with the Sclerolaena spp. Herbland however fewer individual observations (138 records) were made. It must be noted that varying survey effort occurred in each of the different habitats with only the Eucalyptus camaldulensis Very Open Woodland and Sclerolaena spp. Herbland having three survey sites within them. This potentially influences any comparisons between habitats.
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Table 2 The number of species and individuals recorded within the different habitats surveyed
Habitat Site/s Fauna No. of No. of group species individuals Birds 12 140 BEV02201 Mammals 7 32 Sclerolaena spp. Herbland BEV01001 Reptiles 6 13 BEV01101 Total 25 185 Birds 32 440 BEV00301 Eucalyptus camaldulensis Mammals 14 53 BEV00401 Very Open Woodland Reptiles 10 29 BEV00501 Total 56 522 Birds 16 103 Eremophila spp. / Acacia BEV00801 Mammals 10 21 spp. / Santalum BEV01301 Reptiles 7 14 lanceolatum Tall Shrubland Total 33 138 Birds 18 148 Acacia victoriae Tall Mammals 7 16 BEV02001 Shrubland Reptiles 7 16 Total 32 180
4.5 Comparison with previous fauna records
A comparison between the current fauna survey and the two previous surveys completed by Gunninah Environmental Consultants in November/December 1996 and by Heathgate Resources (Annual Environmental Report in 2004) has been made. Table 3 presents fauna species recorded during these previous two surveys that were not recorded during the current survey. Both the Gunninah study and annual fauna survey were undertaken in spring.
Table 3 Comparison of species recorded between the current and previous surveys
Class Scientific Name Common Name Survey** Amphibia Neobatrachus centralis Trilling Frog H Australian Reed-Warbler (Clamorous G Aves Acrocephalus australis Reed-Warbler) Aves Aegotheles cristatus Australian Owlet-nightjar G Aves Cacatua sanguinea Little Corella G Aves Calamanthus campestris Rufous Fieldwren (Western Fieldwren) G Aves Chenonetta jubata Australian Wood Duck, (Maned Duck) G Aves Chrysococcyx basalis Horsfield's Bronze-cuckoo H Aves Coracina novaehollandiae Black-faced Cuckoo-shrike G Aves Cracticus torquatus Grey Butcherbird H Aves Epthianura aurifrons Orange Chat G Aves Falco berigora Brown Falcon G Aves Falco longipennis Australian Hobby (Little Falcon) G Aves Geopelia placida Peaceful Dove G Aves Lalage sueurii1 White-winged Triller G Aves Lichenostomus flavicollis Yellow-throated Honeyeater G Aves Melopsittacus undulatus Budgerigar G Aves Merops ornatus Rainbow Bee-eater (Rainbow Bird) G Aves Milvus migrans Black Kite G Aves Pardalotus rubricatus Red-browed Pardalote G Aves Phaps chalcoptera Common Bronzewing G
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Class Scientific Name Common Name Survey** Aves Podargus strigoides Tawny Frogmouth G Aves Stiltia isabella Australian Pratincole G Aves Todiramphus pyrrhopygia Red-backed Kingfisher G Mammalia Nyctophilus geoffroyi Lesser Long-eared Bat G Mammalia Planigale tenuirostris Narrow-nosed Planigale G Mammalia Vulpes vulpes* Fox G Reptilia Ctenotus orientalis Eastern Spotted Ctenotus G Reptilia Ctenotus pantherinus Leopard Skink G Reptilia Demansia psammophis Yellow-faced Whipsnake G Reptilia Diplodactylus byrnei Pink-blotched Gecko H Reptilia Eremiascincus richardsonii Broad-banded Sandswimmer H Reptilia Pseudonaja nuchalis Western Brown Snake G Reptilia Strophurus intermedius Southern Spiny-tailed Gecko H * - indicates an introduced species ** - G = Gunninah Environmental Consultants survey (1996), H = Heathgate Resources survey (2004) 1 M species now known as Lalage tricolor
The majority of species recorded during previous surveys that were not recorded during the current survey were birds, with 22 species observed. A total of three mammal species have been previously observed within the area and not observed during the current survey. This includes the introduced Vulpes vulpes (fox), Planigale tenuirostris (Narrow-nosed Planigale) and Nyctophilus geoffroyi (Lesser Long-eared Bat). Seven reptile species previously recorded, predominantly skinks and geckos, were not recorded during the current survey. None of the species previously recorded within close proximity to the project site have formal conservation ratings.
Searches of the South Australian Museum and Department for Environment and Heritage databases found 88 birds, 24 mammals, 53 reptiles and three amphibians previously recorded within 25km of the project site. Of these, only 3 species are of conservation significance and include Neophema chrysostoma (Blue-winged Parrot), Ninox connivens (Barking Owl) and Pyrrholaemus brunneus (Redthroat). These three species are of state conservation significance and are discussed further below. A full list of species from these database searches is presented in Appendix 6. The records within the databases searched have been acquired over a number of years, however if an area has not been extensively surveyed in the past the records within the database may not be comprehensive for a given area.
5. Discussion
5.1 General discussion
The Beverley Uranium Mine Additional Mineral Leases fauna survey was conducted during autumn at the end of a period of hot dry weather. Warm days and cool nights were experienced over the duration of the survey with no rainfall recorded. Due to the time of year of the survey and the dry conditions experienced prior to the survey, it is likely that the number of fauna species observed and the numbers of individuals of each species observed would be lower than at other times of the year, particularly during spring. Observations of both species and numbers of animals are likely to be greater following periods of good rainfall followed by warm weather conditions, such as is possible during spring. The property was found to be currently grazed by cattle and as such there were areas, particularly around watering holes, where the degradation of both the vegetation present and the suitability of available habitat for fauna species within these areas was evident.
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5.2 Birds
No species of conservation significance were recorded during the current survey however three bird species of conservation significance have been previously recorded within the area. These species include Neophema chrysostoma (Blue- winged Parrot), which has a state conservation rating of vulnerable,andNinox connivens (Barking Owl) and Pyrrholaemus brunneus (Redthroat) which both have a state conservation rating of rare. The Barking Owl may possibly occur within the Eucalyptus camaldulensis Very Open Woodland along watercourses, particularly in wet years when prey (smaller birds and mammals) is abundant. The Blue-winged Parrot may be found in a variety of habitats including grasslands and woodlands, and may utilise hollows within the Eucalyptus camaldulensis Very Open Woodland for nesting. The preferred habitat for Redthroats is mallee and chenopod shrublands hence it is unlikely that this species occurs within the project site due to a lack of suitable habitat.
Additional bird species of conservation significance that may occur in the project area or nearby areas include Pedionomus torquatus (Plains-wanderer), Falco hypoleucus (Grey Falcon), Amytornis textilis (Thick-billed Grasswren) and Aphelocephala pectoralis (Chestnut-breasted Whiteface). The Plains-wanderer has a national and state conservation rating of vulnerable. A population of this species has recently been found on Mitchell Grass (Astrebla pectinata) plains with red soils south of Lake Frome. The intensive grazing history of the project site would probably preclude this species from similar habitat within the project site, except possibly in good years (G. Carpenter pers comm.). The Grey Falcon has a state conservation rating of vulnerable and may occasionally occur and breed in the Eucalyptus camaldulensis Very Open Woodland areas along watercourses, particularly in wet years when prey (smaller birds) is abundant. The Thick-billed Grasswren (state rating of vulnerable) and Chestnut-breasted Whiteface (state rating of rare) generally associate with chenopod shrublands (eg with Maireana astrotricha, M. sedifolia and M. pyramidata) which were absent from the project site hence these birds are unlikely to occur there.
5.3 Mammals
Three Leggadina forresti R ! " all captures occurring within sites containing the gibber plains (BEV01001 and BEV02201). This species is known to occur within this habitat type and the result is not surprising. One notable capture was a Pseudomys hermannsburgensis (Sandy Inland Mouse) at site BEV02001. This record (voucher specimen lodged with the South Australian Museum) is a range extension for this species of over 80km (C. Kemper pers. comm.). The site where it was captured is not considered to be representative of its known habitat preference as the site did not contain large areas of sand. However, cracking soils at the site would have provided burrowing opportunities for the species which spends the day up to half a metre below the surface of the soil, emerging after sunset to feed (Strahan 1995).
Pseudomys bolami R ! # $ % 50 km to the south-west of the project site, and may possibly occur within the project site (L. Jansen pers comm.). This species was caught at Balcanoona within areas of tall shrubland dominated by species of Acacia, Senna, Eremophila and Dodonaea. Hence, Pseudomys bolami may occur within the project site within areas of tall shrubland such as found at sites BEV00801, BEV01301 and BEV02001.
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One mammal species, Notomys fuscus (Dusky Hopping-mouse), which has a national conservation rating of endangered and a state conservation rating of vulnerable, may possibly occur within the project site (C. Kemper pers comm.). However, at the time of the survey there was little Mitchell Grass (Astrebla pectinata) present which would be the preferred habitat for this species within the project area. Hence, it was unlikely to have been present at the time of the survey.
Antechinomys laniger (Kultarr) has been previously caught nearby the project area and prefers the open, gibber type habitats (C. Kemper pers comm.). Therefore, it is considered possible that this species may occur within the project site due to the presence of suitable habitat within the project area. This nocturnal species is known to utilise deep cracks in the soil at the base of Acacia and Eremophila species and inhabits burrows initially established by other species such as trapdoor spiders, hopping-mice and goannas (Strahan 1995).
The previous survey undertaken by Gunninah (1998) recorded the presence of the Common Brushtail Possum (Trichosurus vulpecula) at the project site, with the record established from identification of hair found in a fox scat. If present within the project site this would be a significant find due to the declining numbers of this species. There nearest known population to the Beverley site is at Quorn several hundred kilometers away. This species has recently been recommended to be listed as rare under the National Parks and Wildlife Act 1972. The current survey found no evidence of this species, either from direct observation, scat observation or hearing calls, although areas that might be suitable, such as sites containing Eucalyptus camaldulensis Very Open Woodland, were searched by spotlighting and active searching during the day. Further evidence of this species would be beneficial to confirm that it is present within the project area.
The current survey recorded Vespadelus finlaysoni R &" ! Scotorepens balstoni (Inland Broad-nosed Bat) from Anabat recordings only. Similarly, Gunninah (1998) recorded Mormopterus planiceps 2 (Southern Freetail-bat (long penis)) and Chalinolobus morio (Chocolate Wattled Bat) from probable call identification and Scotorepens greyii (Little Broad-nosed Bat) from a possible call identification. Whilst likely to be present within the survey site, captures of these species would be beneficial in confirming their presence.
5.4 Reptiles and amphibians
No species of conservation significance were found in the area or are likely to occur within the area, the current survey found a moderate diversity of reptile species considering the habitat type and quality and the time of year of the survey. The number of individuals per species is considered to be low particularly for species such as some of the Ctenotus species which should be found in high numbers throughout the area.
No amphibians were found but no suitable habitat was found within the project area. The reed beds were inspected and when out spotlighting time was spent listening for frogs at this site, but no calls were heard. More likely to find amphibians after good rains in spring when it is more likely that they will breed. The record within Gunninah (1998) for the Desert tree Frog (Litoria rubella) was made at a dam 2 km north of Four Mile Creek.
Other species considered likely to be present within the project area due to suitable available habitat include the legless lizards Delma australis (Barred Snake-lizard),
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Delma butleri (Spinifex Snake-lizard) and Delma tincta (Black-necked Snake-lizard). Snakes likely to be present include Suta spectabilis (Mallee Black-headed Snake), Suta suta (Curl Snake) and Pseudonaja modesta (Five-ringed Snake) along with the lizards Cyclodomorphus melanops (Spinifex Slender Bluetongue) and Cyclogomorphus venustus (Saltbush Slender Bluetongue) (M. Hutchinson pers comm.). Some of these species have been previously recorded within the project area (Appendix 6).
5.5 Comparison with previous surveys
Several fauna surveys have been previously undertaken within close proximity to the current survey. These include the fauna survey undertaken by Gunninah Environmental Consultants in 1998 and the annual fauna monitoring undertaken by Heathgate Resources.
A similar suite of fauna species have been recorded on the previous surveys within close proximity to the current study area. The Gunninah 1998 survey recorded four reptile species, four mammal species and 20 bird species which were not recorded in the current survey. The current survey recorded three reptile species, two mammal species and ten bird species which were not recorded in the Gunninah 1998 survey.
The annual fauna monitoring at the Beverley Mine site, which re-surveys the trapping sites established by Gunninah Environmental Consultants, has recorded an additional two bird species and three reptile species which were not recorded by Gunninah or during the current fauna survey.
None of the additional fauna species are considered to be of conservation significance. It is considered that the current fauna survey, in conjunction with the previous surveys at the Beverley Mine site, give an excellent representation of the fauna species within the area.
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6. Recommendations
The recommendations from the fauna survey include:
Planning phase
A long-term monitoring program should be developed prior to works being undertaken within the area.
Operational phase
Minimise impacts by works on the environment, particularly in areas identified as providing important habitat for fauna species. This includes areas of Eucalyptus camaldulensis Very Open Woodland areas along watercourses that contain valuable habitat for several fauna species such as roosting sites and hollows. The less diverse shrublands and gibber plains also provide important habitat for fauna species such as cracks in the soil. Plan to minimize vehicle damage to these areas by using predetermined routes only.
Any fauna species likely to be directly impacted upon by the mining operations should be caught and relocated into suitable habitat outside of the disturbance area.
Any trenches or holes associated within the mining operations which are left open should be regularly checked for fauna species.
Any fauna species caught in trenches or holes associated with the mining operations should be caught and relocated into suitable habitat
Implement the fauna monitoring program to assess any impacts of works on fauna species and their habitat within the project site.
Undertake staff training sessions to promote the awareness of fauna species within the project area and their reliance on undisturbed habitat. Also reinforce the need to minimise impacts on these species through works undertaken on site.
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References
&'()*+)($ , - ()./$ 0, 1222!, Q 3 es of Conservation Significance 3 ' R ' ( ,R 4 # #$ Department of Environment & Heritage, SA).
&'3)(35*$ 6,/,$ 74+&7.*35*$ ,*, - (5.*35*$ ',&, 8999! Q' : ; # 3 ' R, / ment for Environment and Heritage).
COGGER, H. G. (1975). 'Reptiles and Amphibians of Australia.' (A. H. & A. W. Reed, Sydney). (Fifth edition, 1994).
GUNNINAH ENVIRONMENTAL CONSULTANTS (1998). Beverley uranium project South Australia, Heathgate Resources Pty Ltd. Fauna Baseline Survey.
7543+5*$ +, 12<=!, Q/ :> 3 ' ,R (Revised by Hutchinson, M. N, South Australian Museum). (Second edition, 1998).
LAUT, P., KEIG, G., LAZARIDES, M., LOFFLER, E., MURGULES, C., SCOTT, R, , - 34::.;'*$ ,), 12<
:'@ '.($ (, , - (5.*35*$ ',&, 122
)*675(3+$ , - 6*.7+$ , 8991!, Q' ' ,R 5% 4 " $ ' !, 3 $ 899A!
OWENS, H. (2000), Q ; # 3 " 3 ' 4 3 " 5 3 ' ,R * - 3 Australia).
()'(/5*$ +, - :';):$ 3, 1221!, Q' 3 ' R, (South Australian Museum).
R5.*35*$ ',&,$ &'3)(35*$ 6,/, - 74+&7.*35*$ ,*, 8999!, Q' " # 3 ' ,R / ) " 7 ,
3. 35*$ 6, - /'@$ *, 12=A!, Q ' M ABookof . ,R ooks Australia). (Third edition, 1993)
3+('7'*$ (, 12=B! Q+ ' ,R ' - (# Publishers). (Second edition, 1995, Reed Books Australia)
+(.3$ , 122?!, Q+ $ 3 5 + M A Field Guide to ' ,R (Oxford University Press, Australia)
.:35*$ 3, - 3'*$ 899B!, Q' & ( ' ,R (Reed New Holland).
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Appendix 1 M Trapping sites for the Beverley Fauna Survey
Site Location Site Identification Line A Line B Vegetation Community Eucalyptus camaldulensis Open BEV00301 361330 6661006 361250 6661034 Forest Eucalyptus camaldulensis Open BEV00401 365875 6661342 365922 6661306 Forest Eucalyptus camaldulensis Open BEV00501 367489 6662815 367613 6662846 Forest BEV00801 367408 6657416 367324 6657448 Santalum / Maireana Open Shrubland Sclerolaena / Maireana Low Open BEV01001 364216 6655956 364179 6655954 Shrubland BEV01101 367656 6655808 367623 6655822 Sclerolaena Herbland Eucalyptus camaldulensis / Acacia BEV01301 364842 6655500 364792 6655545 tetragonophylla Open Forest BEV02001 367123 6662048 367056 6661989 Acacia victoriae Tall Open Shrubland BEV02201 368028 6660329 368027 6660257 Sclerolaena Herbland Locations are given using the WGS 84 datum
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Appendix 2 M Trapping effort for the Beverley Fauna Survey
Site Elliott traps Pitfall traps Cage traps Harp traps Spotlight Day search Bat detector nights trap nights nights trap nights nights trap nights nights hours Hours/min nights BEV00301 4 120 4 48 4 16 6 1.5 2.25 1 BEV00401 4 120 4 48 4 16 3 1.5 1 BEV00501 4 120 4 48 4 16 3 1.5 3 1 BEV00801 4 120 4 48 4 16 1.5 BEV01001 4 120 4 48 4 16 0.75 2.25 BEV01101 4 120 4 48 4 16 3 1 BEV01301 4 120 4 48 4 16 3 1 BEV02001 4 120 4 48 4 16 2.25 BEV02201 4 120 4 48 4 16 1 1.5 TOTAL 36 1080 36 432 36 144 12 4.75 20.25 5
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Appendix 3 M Mammal species recorded during the Beverley Fauna Survey
Species Name Common Name BEV00301 BEV00401 BEV00501 BEV00801 BEV01001 BEV01101 BEV01301 BEV02001 BEV02201 OPPORTUNE TOTAL Bos taurus* Cattle* 13318 Canis sp. 2 2 Chalinolobus gouldii Gould's Wattled Bat 1179 Felis catus* Cat* 1 1 Leggadina forresti Forrest's Mouse 123 Macropus fuliginosus Western Grey Kangaroo 1 1 Macropus robustus Euro 2 2 Macropus rufus Red Kangaroo 321314118731 Macropus sp. 111 3 Mormopterus planiceps 12 16 2 1 (small penis) Southern Freetail-bat 22 Mus musculus* House Mouse* 2 113 7 Oryctolagus cuniculus* Rabbit* 2112 17 216 Pseudomys 1 hermannsburgensis Sandy Inland Mouse 1 Scotorepens balstoni** Inland Broad-nosed Bat 1 1 Sminthopsis 1 2 612 crassicaudata Fat-tailed Dunnart 12 Sminthopsis macroura Stripe-faced Dunnart 21221210 Tadarida australis White-striped Freetail-bat 11 1 1 1 1 6 Tachyglossus aculeatus Short-beaked Echidna 131 5 Vespadelus baverstocki Inland Forest Bat 41 49 Vespadelus finlaysoni** R &" 1 1 TotalnumberofSpecies 81075449741020 Total Observations 15 15 23 9 5 14 13 16 13 27 147 * Denotes introduced species ** Species only identified from Anabat Detector
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Appendix 4 M Reptile species recorded during the Beverley Fauna Survey OPPORTUNE TOTAL Species Name Common Name BEV00301 BEV00401 BEV00501 BEV00801 BEV01001 BEV01101 BEV01301 BEV02001 BEV02201 Brachyurophis fasciolatus Narrow-banded Shovel-nosed Snake 1 1 Cryptoblepharus 123 plagiocephalus "PIB" Desert Wall skink Ctenophorus nuchalis Central Netted Dragon 112 Ctenotus leonhardii Common Desert Ctenotus 224 Ctenotus olympicus Saltbush Ctenotus 121 4 Ctenotus regius Eastern Desert Ctenotus 31 1 5 Ctenotus strauchii Short-legged Ctenotus 11 2 Diplodactylus tessellatus Tessellated Gecko 1 1 Gehyra variegata Tree Dtella 4132 38 425 Heteronotia binoei Bynoe's Gecko 31 48 Lerista labialis EasternTwo-toedSlider 3 3 Lerista punctatovittata Spotted Slider 4 4 Menetia greyii Dwarf Skink 112 Morethia boulengeri Common Snake-eye 1 1 Nephrurus levis Smooth Knob-tailed Gecko 1 1 Pogona vitticeps Central Bearded Dragon 1 1 Pseudonaja sp. 1 1 Rhynchoedura ornata Beaked Gecko 2 2 Strophurus ciliaris Northern Spiny-tailed Gecko 1 1 Tiliqua rugosa Sleepy Lizard 1111 4 Tympanocryptis intima Smooth-snouted Earless Dragon 3 3 Tympanocryptis 12 3 tetraporophora Eyrean Earless Dragon Varanus gouldii Gould's Goanna 1 1 Varanus sp. 11 2 TotalnumberofSpecies 3665234746 24 Total Observations 10 6 13 7 2 5 7 16 6 12 84 * Denotes introduced species
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Appendix 5 M Bird species recorded during the Beverley Fauna Survey
Species Name Common Name BEV00301 BEV00401 BEV00501 BEV00801 BEV01001 BEV01101 BEV01301 BEV02001 BEV02201 OPPORTUNE TOTAL Acanthagenys rufogularis Spiny-cheeked Honeyeater 211 3 7 Acanthiza apicalis Inland Thornbill 2 2 Acanthiza uropygialis Chestnut-rumped Thornbill 42 2 8 Accipiter cirrhocephalus Collared Sparrowhawk 1 1 Anthus novaeseelandiae Richard's Pipit 2215 Aphelocephala leucopsis Southern Whiteface 246 Aquila audax Wedge-tailed Eagle 21312131 822 Artamus cinereus Black-faced Woodswallow 421 66 19 Ashbyia lovensis Gibberbird 123 Barnardius zonarius Australian Ringneck, (Ring-necked Parrot) 417 12 Cacatua roseicapilla Galah 108 20 85 100 20 47 380 Certhionyx variegatus Pied Honeyeater 15 15 Charadrius australis Inland Dotterel 11 1 12 Cheramoeca 1 leucosternus White-backed Swallow 1 Cinclosoma 22 5 3 cinnamomeum Cinnamon Quail-thrush 12 Colluricincla harmonica Grey Shrike-thrush 2 2 Corvus bennetti Little Crow 5 5 Corvus coronoides Australian Raven 426315131 26 Dromaius 144 1 13 novaehollandiae Emu 14 Egretta novaehollandiae White-faced Heron 1 1 Elanus axillaris Black-shouldered Kite 1 1 Epthianura tricolor Crimson Chat 6 6 Eurostopodus argus Spotted Nightjar 1 1 Falco cenchroides Nankeen Kestrel 112 4 Geopelia cuneata Diamond Dove 1 1 Grallina cyanoleuca Magpie-lark 358
Southern EL 3251Fauna Survey 26 Environmental and Biodiversity Services OPPORTUNE TOTAL Species Name Common Name BEV00301 BEV00401 BEV00501 BEV00801 BEV01001 BEV01101 BEV01301 BEV02001 BEV02201 Gymnorhina tibicen Australian Magpie 24 2 22214 Haliastur sphenurus Whistling Kite 1 1 Hirundo nigricans Tree Martin 1424 2049 Lichenostomus 74 penicillatus White-plumed Honeyeater 11 Lichenostomus virescens Singing Honeyeater 4252 57 25 Malurus lamberti Variegated Fairy-wren 647 17 Malurus leucopterus White-winged Fairy-wren 42 733 46 Manorina flavigula Yellow-throated Miner 24 24 Megalurus gramineus Little Grassbird 1 1 Neophema elegans Elegant Parrot 1 1 Ocyphaps lophotes Crested Pigeon 4113 2 27 29 Pachycephala rufiventris Rufous Whistler 23 5 Pardalotus striatus Striated Pardalote 1 1 Passer domesticus* House Sparrow* 2 2 Petroica goodenovii Red-capped Robin 222 1 18 Pomatostomus ruficeps Chestnut-crowned Babbler 7815 Pomatostomus 6 1 superciliosus White-browned Babbler 7 Psephotus varius Mulga Parrot 4243 3 16 Psophodes cristatus Chirruping Wedgebill 47415 Rhipidura leucophrys Willie Wagtail 222 2 8 Taeniopygia guttata Zebra Finch 21 1 22 Tyto alba Barn Owl 1 1 Total number of Species 21 17 23 11 6 7 13 18 5 16 48 Total Observations 164 69 207 42 9 113 61 148 18 61 892 * Denotes Introduced Species
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Appendix 6 M Fauna species previously recorded within or in the vicinity of the project area
Class Species Common Name SA Source** Amphibia Crinia riparia Streambank Froglet SAM Amphibia Limnodynastes tasmaniensis Spotted Grass Frog SAM Amphibia Litoria rubella Red Tree Frog DEH, SAM Aves Acanthagenys rufogularis Spiny-cheeked Honeyeater DEH Aves Acanthiza apicalis Inland Thornbill DEH Aves Acanthiza chrysorrhoa Yellow-rumped Thornbill DEH Aves Acanthiza sp. DEH Aves Acanthiza uropygialis Chestnut-rumped Thornbill DEH Aves Accipiter cirrhocephalus Collared Sparrowhawk DEH Australian Reed Warbler, Aves Acrocephalus australis (Clamorous Reed-Warbler) DEH Aves Acrocephalus stentoreus Clamorous Reedwarbler DEH Aves Aegotheles cristatus Australian Owlet-nightjar DEH Aves Anthus novaeseelandiae Richard's Pipit DEH Aves Aphelocephala leucopsis Southern Whiteface DEH Aves Aquila audax Wedge-tailed Eagle DEH Aves Artamus cinereus Black-faced Woodswallow DEH Aves Artamus cyanopterus Dusky Woodswallow DEH Aves Artamus personatus Masked Woodswallow DEH, SAM Aves Ashbyia lovensis Gibberbird DEH Australian Ringneck, (Ring- Aves Barnardius zonarius necked Parrot) DEH Aves Cacatua roseicapilla Galah DEH Aves Cacatua sanguinea Little Corella DEH Aves Calamanthus campestris Rufous Fieldwren DEH Aves Certhionyx variegatus Pied Honeyeater DEH, SAM Australian Wood Duck, (Maned Aves Chenonetta jubata Duck) DEH Aves Cheramoeca leucosternus White-backed Swallow DEH Aves Chrysococcyx basalis Horsfield's Bronze-cuckoo DEH Aves Cincloramphus cruralis Brown Songlark DEH Aves Cincloramphus mathewsi Rufous Songlark DEH Aves Cinclosoma cinnamomeum Cinnamon Quail-thrush DEH, SAM Aves Circus assimilis Spotted Harrier DEH Aves Colluricincla harmonica Grey Shrike-thrush DEH Aves Coracina novaehollandiae Black-faced Cuckoo-shrike DEH Aves Corvus bennetti Little Crow DEH Aves Corvus coronoides Australian Raven DEH Aves Corvus sp. DEH Aves Cracticus torquatus Grey Butcherbird DEH Aves Cuculus pallidus Pallid Cuckoo DEH Aves Dicaeum hirundinaceum Mistletoebird DEH Aves Dromaius novaehollandiae Emu DEH Aves Epthianura aurifrons Orange Chat DEH Aves Epthianura tricolor Crimson Chat DEH, SAM Aves Eurostopodus argus Spotted Nightjar DEH Aves Falco berigora Brown Falcon DEH, SAM Aves Falco cenchroides Nankeen Kestrel DEH Aves Falco longipennis Australian Hobby DEH Aves Geopelia cuneata Diamond Dove DEH Aves Geopelia placida Peaceful Dove DEH
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Class Species Common Name SA Source** Aves Grallina cyanoleuca Magpie-lark DEH Aves Gymnorhina tibicen Australian Magpie DEH Aves Haliastur sphenurus Whistling Kite DEH Aves Hirundo neoxena Welcome Swallow DEH Aves Lalage tricolor White-winged Triller DEH Aves Lichenostomus penicillatus White-plumed Honeyeater DEH Aves Lichenostomus plumulus Grey-fronted Honeyeater) DEH Aves Lichenostomus virescens Singing Honeyeater DEH Aves Malurus lamberti Variegated Fairy-wren DEH Aves Malurus leucopterus White-winged Fairy-wren DEH Aves Manorina flavigula Yellow-throated Miner DEH Aves Megalurus gramineus Little Grassbird DEH Aves Melanodryas cucullata Hooded Robin DEH Aves Melithreptus brevirostris Brown-headed Honeyeater DEH Aves Melopsittacus undulatus Budgerigar DEH Aves Merops ornatus Rainbow Bee-eater DEH Aves Milvus migrans Black Kite DEH Aves Neophema chrysostoma Blue-winged Parrot V DEH Aves Neophema elegans Elegant Parrot DEH Aves Ninox connivens Barking Owl R SAM Aves Ninox novaeseelandiae Southern Boobook DEH Aves Nymphicus hollandicus Cockatiel DEH Aves Ocyphaps lophotes Crested Pigeon DEH Aves Pachycephala rufiventris Rufous Whistler DEH Aves Pardalotus rubricatus Red-browed Pardalote DEH Aves Pardalotus striatus Striated Pardalote DEH Aves *Passer domesticus House Sparrow DEH Aves Petrochelidon nigricans Tree Martin DEH Aves Petroica goodenovii Red-capped Robin DEH Aves Phaps chalcoptera Common Bronzewing DEH Aves Podargus strigoides Tawny Frogmouth DEH Aves Pomatostomus ruficeps Chestnut-crowned Babbler DEH Aves Pomatostomus superciliosus White-browed Babbler DEH Aves Psephotus varius Mulga Parrot DEH Aves Psophodes cristatus Chirruping Wedgebill DEH, SAM Aves Pyrrholaemus brunneus Redthroat R DEH Aves Rhipidura albiscapa Grey Fantail DEH Aves Rhipidura leucophrys Willie Wagtail DEH Aves Smicrornis brevirostris Weebill DEH Aves Stiltia isabella Australian Pratincole DEH, SAM Aves Taeniopygia guttata Zebra Finch DEH Aves Todiramphus pyrrhopygia Red-backed Kingfisher DEH Aves Turnix velox Little Button-quail DEH, SAM Mammalia *Bos taurus Cattle DEH Mammalia Canis lupus dingo Dingo DEH Mammalia *Capra hircus Goat DEH Mammalia Chalinolobus gouldii Gould's Wattled Bat DEH, SAM Mammalia *Felis catus Cat DEH Mammalia Leggadina forresti Forrest's Mouse DEH, SAM Mammalia Macropus fuliginosus Western Grey Kangaroo DEH Mammalia Macropus robustus Euro DEH Mammalia Macropus rufus Red Kangaroo DEH Mammalia Macropus sp. DEH
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Class Species Common Name SA Source** Mammalia Mormopterus planiceps Southern Freetail-bats SAM Mormopterus spp. (3 species Mammalia complex) (NC) Southern Freetail-bats DEH Mammalia *Mus musculus House Mouse DEH, SAM Mammalia Nyctophilus geoffroyi Lesser Long-eared Bat DEH, SAM Mammalia *Oryctolagus cuniculus Rabbit DEH Mammalia Planigale tenuirostris Narrow-nosed Planigale DEH, SAM Mammalia Scotorepens balstoni Inland Broad-nosed Bat DEH, SAM Mammalia Scotorepens greyii Little Broad-nosed Bat SAM Mammalia Sminthopsis crassicaudata Fat-tailed Dunnart DEH, SAM Mammalia Sminthopsis macroura Stripe-faced Dunnart DEH, SAM Mammalia Tachyglossus aculeatus Short-beaked Echidna DEH Mammalia Vespadelus baverstocki Inland Forest Bat DEH, SAM Mammalia Vespadelus finlaysoni Finlayson's Cave Bat SAM Mammalia *Vulpes vulpes Fox DEH Reptilia Amphibolurus nobbi coggeri Nobbi Dragon SAM Cryptoblepharus cf Reptilia plagiocephalus (NC) Desert Wall skink DEH Cryptoblepharus Reptilia plagiocephalus Striped Wall Skink SAM Cryptoblepharus Reptilia plagiocephalus "PIB" Striped Wall Skink SAM Reptilia Ctenophorus decresii Tawny Dragon DEH, SAM Reptilia Ctenophorus nuchalis Central Netted Dragon SAM Reptilia Ctenophorus pictus Painted Dragon DEH, SAM Reptilia Ctenophorus sp. DEH Reptilia Ctenophorus vadnappa Red-barred Dragon DEH, SAM Reptilia Ctenotus leonhardii Common Desert Ctenotus DEH, SAM Reptilia Ctenotus olympicus Saltbush Ctenotus DEH, SAM Reptilia Ctenotus orientalis Eastern Spotted Ctenotus DEH, SAM Reptilia Ctenotus pantherinus Leopard Skink DEH, SAM Reptilia Ctenotus regius Eastern Desert Ctenotus DEH, SAM Reptilia Ctenotus robustus Eastern Striped Skink DEH, SAM Reptilia Ctenotus schomburgkii Sandplain Ctenotus DEH, SAM Reptilia Ctenotus sp. DEH Reptilia Ctenotus strauchii Short-legged Ctenotus DEH, SAM Reptilia Ctenotus strauchii varius Short-legged Ctenotus SAM Cyclodomorphus melanops Reptilia elongatus Spinifex Slender Bluetongue SAM Reptilia Delma butleri Spinifex Snake-lizard SAM Reptilia Delma sp. DEH Reptilia Delma tincta Black-necked Snake-lizard SAM Reptilia Demansia psammophis Yellow-faced Whipsnake SAM Reptilia Diplodactylus byrnei Pink-blotched Gecko DEH, SAM Reptilia Diplodactylus tessellatus Tessellated Gecko DEH, SAM Reptilia Egernia margaretae Masked Rock Skink DEH Reptilia Egernia striolata Eastern Tree Skink DEH, SAM Reptilia Gehyra 2n=44 Southern Rock Dtella DEH, SAM Reptilia Gehyra sp DEH, SAM Reptilia Gehyra variegata Tree Dtella DEH, SAM Reptilia Gehyra variegata complex Tree Dtella SAM Reptilia Heteronotia binoei Bynoe's Gecko DEH Reptilia Lerista labialis Eastern Two-toed Slider DEH, SAM Reptilia Lerista muelleri Dwarf Three-toed Slider DEH, SAM Reptilia Lerista punctatovittata Spotted Slider DEH, SAM
Southern EL 3251Fauna Survey 30 Environmental and Biodiversity Services
Class Species Common Name SA Source** Reptilia Menetia greyii Dwarf Skink DEH, SAM Reptilia Morethia adelaidensis Adelaide Snake-eye DEH, SAM Reptilia Morethia boulengeri Common Snake-eye DEH, SAM Reptilia Nephrurus levis Smooth Knob-tailed Gecko DEH, SAM Reptilia Pogona vitticeps Central Bearded Dragon DEH Reptilia Pseudechis australis Mulga Snake SAM Reptilia Pseudonaja modesta Five-ringed Snake DEH, SAM Reptilia Pseudonaja nuchalis Western Brown Snake DEH, SAM Reptilia Rhynchoedura ornata Beaked Gecko DEH, SAM Reptilia Simoselaps fasciolatus Narrow-banded Snake DEH, SAM Reptilia Strophurus ciliaris Northern Spiny-tailed Gecko DEH, SAM Reptilia Strophurus elderi Jewelled Gecko SAM Reptilia Suta suta Curl Snake SAM Reptilia Tiliqua rugosa Sleepy Lizard DEH Reptilia Tympanocryptis intima Smooth-snouted Earless Dragon DEH, SAM Tympanocryptis Reptilia tetraporophora Eyrean Earless Dragon DEH, SAM Reptilia Varanus gouldii Sand Goanna DEH * denotes introduced species ** SAM = South Australian Museum, DEH = Department for Environment and Heritage SA State Conservation Ratings; V = vulnerable, R = rare
Southern EL 3251Fauna Survey 31 Environmental and Biodiversity Services
Appendix 7 - General site photographs
Site BEV00301 - Eucalyptus camaldulensis Very Open Woodland
Site BEV00401 - Eucalyptus camaldulensis Very Open Woodland
Southern EL 3251Fauna Survey 32 Environmental and Biodiversity Services
Site BEV00501 - Eucalyptus camaldulensis Very Open Woodland
Site BEV01001 - Sclerolaena spp. Herbland
Southern EL 3251Fauna Survey 33 Environmental and Biodiversity Services
Site BEV01101 - Sclerolaena spp. Herbland
Site BEV01301 - Eremophila spp. / Acacia spp. / Santalum lanceolatum Tall Shrubland
Southern EL 3251Fauna Survey 34 Environmental and Biodiversity Services
Site BEV02001 - Acacia victoriae Tall Shrubland
Site BEV02201 - Sclerolaena spp. Herbland
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