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FAUNA SURVEY, WINGHAM MANAGEMENT AREA, PORT MACQUARIE REGION
PART 1. MAMMALS
BY
ALAN YORK
\ \
FORESTRY COMMISSION OF NEW SOUTH WALES
------FAUNA SURVEY, WINGHAM MANAGEMENT AREA, PORT MACQUARIE REGION
PART 1. MAMMALS
by
ALAN YORK
FOREST ECOLOGY SECTION WOOD TECHNOLOGY AND FOREST RESEARCH DIVISION FORESTRY COMMISSION OF NEW SOUTH WALES SYDNEY 1992 Forest Resources Series No. 19 March 1992
The Author:
AIan York, BSc.(Hons.) PhD., Wildlife Ecologist, Forest Ecology Section, Wood Technology and Forest Research Division, Forestry Commission ofNew South Wales.
Published by:
Forestry Commission ofNew South Wales, Wood Technology and Forest Research Division, 27 Oratava Avenue, West Pennant Hills, 2125 P.O. Box lOO, Beecroft 2119 Australia.
Copyright © 1992 by Forestry Commission ofNew South Wales
ODC 156.2:149 (944) ISSN 1033-1220 ISBN 07305 5663 8 Fauna Survey, Wingham Management Area, -i- PortMacquarie Region Part 1. Mammals
TABLE OF CONTENTS PAGE INTRODUCTION 1 1. The Wingham Management Area 1 (a) Location 1 (b) Physical environment 3 (c) Vegetation communities 3 (d) Fire 5 (e) Timber harvesting : 5
SURVEY METHODOLOGy 7 1. Overall Sampling Strategy 7 (a) General survey 7 (b) Plot-based survey 7 (i) Stratification 1:Jy Broad Forest Type : 8 (ii) Stratification by Altitude 8 (iii) Stratification 1:Jy Management History 8 (iv) Plot selection 9 (v) Special considerations 9 (vi) Plot establishment 10 (vii) Plot design...... 12 (c) Specialized survey 12 (d) Other considerations 12 (e) Data presentation and analysis 12 2. Mammal Survey Methodology 14 (a) General survey 14 (i) Literature review 14 (ii) Opportunistic sightings 14 (iii) Road survey...... 14 (iv) Predator scat analysis 15 (b) Plot-based survey 15 (i) Large arboreal marsupials...... 15 (ii) Small arboreal mammals 15 (iii) Small terrestrial mammals 16 (iv) Large terrestrial mammals...... 16
Forest Resources Series No. 19 Forestry Commission ofNew South Wales Fauna Survey, Wingham Management Area, Port Macquarie Region Part 1. Mammals -ii-
(c) Specialized survey ; 16 (i) Unlogged Rainforest : 16 (ii) Rocky habitats 17 (iii) Pseudornys oralis habitats 17 (iv) Grassy habitats 17 (d) Survey limitations 18 (e) Data analysis 18
RESULTS 20 1. General Survey...... 20 (a) literature review...... 20 (b) Opportunistic sightings 21 (c) Road survey 21 (d) Predator scat analysis 22 2. Plot-based Survey 24 (a) Large arboreal marsupials...... 24 (i) Population density ofGreater Gliders 26 (ii) Population density of Common Ringtail Posswns 28 (iii) Population density of Common Brushtail Posswns...... 30 (iv) Distribution ofMountain Brushtail Posswns 31 (v) Distribution ofKoalas...... 31 (vi) Distribution ofYellow-bellied Gliders 31 (vii) Distribution ofSugar Gliders 32 (b) Small arboreal mammals 32 (c) Small terrestrial mammals 33 (i) Plot-based survey 33 (ii) Specialized survey...... 33 (d) Large terrestrial mammals 34 (i) Plots-based survey 34 (ii) Specialized survey...... 36
DISCUSSION 37 1. Background Iriformation...... 37 2. Large ArborealMarsupials 37 (a) Greater Gliders 38 (b) Common Ringtail Posswns...... 39 (c) Common Brushtail Posswns 39
Forestry Conunission ofNew South Wales Forest Resources Series No. 19 Fauna Survey, Wingham Management Area, -iii- PortMacquarie Region Part 1. Mammals
(d) Mountain Brushtail Possums 40 (e) Koala 40 (f) Yellow-bellied Gliders...... 42 3. Small Arboreal Mammals 42 (a) Brush-tailed Phaseogale 43 (b) Eastern Pygmy Possum 43 (e) Sugar Glider 43 (d) Other small arboreal mamrnals 44 4. Small Terrestrial Mammals 45 5. Large Terrestrial Mammals 46 6. Other Native Mammals 47 7. Introduced Speeies 48 8. Fire Management 48 9. Conservation Issues 50
ACKNOWLEDGEMENTS 51 REFERENCES 51
FIGURES Figure 1. Locality map showing Wingham Mangement Area and surrounding National Parks,..... 2 Major Reserves and State Forest areas. Figure 2. Location offauna survey plots...... 13
TABLES Table 1. State Forests within the Wingham Mangement Area 3
Table 2. The definition ofBroad Forest Types within the Management Area 4
Table 3. State Forest areas by Broad Forest Types 4
Table 4. Allocation ofstudy plots within the Management Area 10
Table 5. General infonnation for fauna survey plots...... 11
Table 6. Arboreal mammal species recorded during road transect survey 22
Table 7. Analysis ofpredator seats and hair samples...... 23
Forest Resources Series No. 19 Forestry Commission ofNew South Wales Fauna Survey, Wingham Management Area, Port Macquarie Region Part 1. Mammals -iv-
Table 8. Relative species richness ofall large arboreal marsupials on study plots differing 24 in Broad Forest Type, Management History and Altitude.
Table 9. Relative species richness oflarge arboreal marsupials on study plots differing in...... 25 Broad Forest Type and Mangement History.
Table 10. Relative population density ofGreater Gliders on study plots differing in Broad...... 26 Forest Type, Management History and Altitude.
Table 11. Relative population density ofGreater Gliders on study plots differing in Broad...... 27 Forest Type and Mangement History.
Table 12. Relative population density ofCommon Ringtail Possums on study plots differing...... 28 in Broad Forest Type, Martgement History and Altitude.
Table 13. Relative population density ofCommon Ringtail Possums on study plots differing...... 29 in Broad Forest Type and Mangement History.
Table 14. Relative population density ofCommon Brushtail Possums on study plots differing.....30 in Broad Forest Type, Mangement History and Altitude.
Table 15. Relative population density ofCommon Brushtail Possums on study plots differing.... 31 in Broad Forest Type and Mangement History.
Table 16. Relative population density ofthe Brown Antechinus on study plots differing 32 in Broad Forest Type, Mangement History and Altitude.
Table 17. Plot-based records oflarge terrestrial mammals 35
APPENDICES Appendix 1. Floristic communities as derived from numerical classification...... 56 ofsurvey data.
Appendix 2. List ofknown mammal fauna for the region 57
Appendix 3. Detail ofroad survey transects 59
Foresl.1)' Commission ofNew South Wales Forest Resources Series No. 19 ~~-_. ~~-~~~------=------..,
Fauna Survey, Wingham Management Area. -1- PortMacquarie Region Part 1. Manunals
INTRODUCTION
This report constitutes the first of a four part series (Forest Resources Series No. 19-22) which detail the results ofa substantial fauna survey undertaken within the Wingham Management Area in the Taree Forestry District ofNew South Wales. The other three fauna reports are entitled: Fauna Survey, Wingham Management Area, Port Macquarie Region. Part 2. Birds, Part 3. Reptiles and Amphibians, and Part 4. Bats. The vegetation ofthe Management Area has been surveyed and results are presented in Forest Resources Series No. 18 (Binns and Chapman, 1992).
This report covers all mammal groups in the Management Area, excluding the bats, which are covered in Part 4 ofthe Series. The Survey Methodology section within this document provides background information pertinent to all fauna reports, however where specialised techniques and approaches were used for particular components ofthe survey, they are described in the relevant report.
The results from these surveys were used in the preparation ofthe Wingham Management Area Environmental Impact Statement (Truyard Pty. Ltd., 1992), and these flora and fauna reports also function as reference material for that E.I.S. The information collected during the fauna surveys forms part ofthe Forestry Commission's wildlife management database and, in conjunction with similar databases maintained by the Australian Museum, the National Parks and Wildlife Service ofNew South Wales and other authorities, provides a state-wide inventory offorest fauna. In association with ongoing research programs, these data facilitate the evaluation of species' significance, the development ofconservation strategies and an assessment ofthe impact ofmanagement operations.
1. The Wingham Management Area
Much ofthe following section is derived from the Wingham Management Plan (Forestry Commission ofNew South Wales, 1990) and serves only as a brief introduction to the Fauna Survey Reports. The Management Plan should be consulted for more detailed information where required. Similarly, as many ofthese issues are dealt with in substantial detail in the Wingham Management Area Environmental Impact Statement (Truyard Pty. Ltd., 1992), only material directly relevant to the interpretation ofthe fauna survey is presented here.
(a) Location
The Wingham Management Area is located to the northwest ofWingham in the hinterland ofthe Mid North Coast of New South Wales. The Area comprises parts ofthe catchments ofthe Manning and Hastings Rivers. It lies south ofthe Oxley Highway and north ofthe Manning River, and is bounded on the west by parts ofthe Nowendoc, Cooplacurripa, Mummel and Upper Rowley Rivers which flow south into the Manning River. The general locality and surrounding National Park and Forestry areas are shown in Figure 1.
Within the administrative boundaries ofthe Management Area, there is a total of64,202 hectares of Crown-timber land, ofwhich State Forests make up 58,253 ha. (91 %) and other Crown-timber lands make up 5,949 ha. (9%). State Forests within the Management Area are listed in Table 1 and details ofthe location ofState Forests and other Crown-timber lands are contained within the Plan of Management (Forestry Commission ofNew South Wales, 1990). For the remainder ofthis report, and for the others in the series, "Wingham Management Area" refers only to the areas ofState Forest and other Crown-timber lands within the larger administrative unit
Forest Resources Series No. 19 Forestry Commission ofNew South Wales Fauna SUIVey, Wingham Management Area, Port Macquarie Region Part 1. Mammals -2-
Annidale.'
Walcha
Pacific Ocean
N t
9,-- -=29km
Gloucester•
·u· 1:2§ Wingham M. A. Seaview N. R. WokoN.P. .:~:... New EnglandN. P. ~ Other State Forests JasparN.R. I.!.-!J Boorganna N. R.
.~. :;1;:.. .. Werrikimbe N. P. WeelahN.R. Oxley Wild Rivers N. P.
Figure 1. Locality map showing Wingham Mangement Area and surrounding National Parks, major Reserves and other State Forest areas.
Forestry Commission ofNew South Wales Forest Resources Series No. 19 Fauna Survey, Wingham Management Area, -3- PortMacquarie Region Part 1. Mammals
Table 1. State Forests within the Wingham Management Area.
State Forest Name State Forest Number Mapped Area (ha.)
Bulga (part) 285 22,818 Cockspur· 902 1,550 Dingo 779 8,904 Doyles River (part) 911 14,515 Enfield (part) 337 5.937 Knorrit 767 4,529
TOTAL 58,253
Enfield, Doyles River, Bulga, Dingo and Knorrit State Forests are contiguous on a major ridge system running southeast from the edge ofthe New England tablelands. The major ridge falls generally southeast from Yarrowitch (1,200 m. asl.) to the coastal plain near Mount George (130 m. as!.). An eastern spur ofthe main ridge links to the Bulga Plateau and fonns the watershed between the Hastings and Manning River systems. Cockspur State Forest is located at the end ofa separate ridge system separated from the other State Forests by settlement and clearing along Rowleys River.
(b) Physical environment
The geology ofthe area is primarily sedimentary or metamorphic derivatives ofsedimentary rocks, mainly ofLower Devonian origin. The soils that have developed on this parent material are principally yellow podzolics with a loam to clay-loam structureless topsoil over a light to medium clay subsoil ofprismatic or blocky structure. Because ofthe high rainfall, these soils have been significantly leached and are oflow to moderate fertility. In some areas, red and yellow earths have developed on Upper Carboniferous-Lower Pennian sediments. They are gradational soils with a :fine sandy loam to clay loam, and a weakly crumbly topsoil, grading into a sandy clay to light clay, prismatic subsoil. These soils are porous and oflow fertility. Some areas ofBulga and Enfield State Forests are characterised by Krasnozems overlying weathered Tertiary basalt flows. They are generally friable clay soils with a strong pedal development, and in general have been heavily weathered and leached.
The Management Area is within the southern end ofthe subtropical belt having mild winters with occasional frosts and snow, and humid hot summers with high rainfall. Precipitation usually occurs in all months ofthe year but there is a marlced maximum in late summer and early autumn with a drier winter and spring. Rainfall records from the region indicate mean annual rainfall ofbetween approximately 1,000-1,700 mm. Daily temperatures range from very wann to hot inthe summer months (approx 15-25°) to cool to very cold in the winter months (approx 7-13°). Altitude, rather than distance from the coast, is a moderating factor with regard to maximum temperatures.
(c) Vegetation communities
Virtually all (99%) ofthe Management Area is forested, with the forests representing a mosaic oftree species associations. These associations or "Forest Types" are defined by G.M. Baur (Forestry Commission ofNew South Wales, 1989) and have been mapped at a scale of1:25,000 from aerial photographs and field investigations. A detailed sUlvey ofthe vegetation (including understorey components) in the Management Area has been undertaken and is reported in Binns and Chapman (1992).
In the Wingham Management Area, these forest associations fall into four recognisable broad categories: Rainforest, Moist forest, Dry forest, and New England forest.
Forest Resources Series No. 19 ForeslIy Commission ofNew South Wales Fauna Survey, WinghamManagement Area, Port Macquarie Region Part 1. Mammals
Table 2. The definition ofBroad Forest Types within the Management Area.
Broad Forest Type Forest Types*
New England forest 122, 138, 152b, 152c, 163 Moist forest 36, 46, 47a, 47b, 48, 53, 152a, 168,218 Dry forest 37, 47c, 60, 62, 64, 65 Rainforest 1,2,3,12,23,24,25,26
* suffix denotes site quality: a =high, b =moderate, c =low (Forestry Commission ofNew South Wales, 1989)
The composition ofthese "Broad Forest Types" is shown in Table 2 and the distribution within the Management Area in Table 3. The distribution ofForest Types across the Area is related primarily to an interaction between individual species' requirements and changes in aspect, altitude, available soil moisture, soil fertility and soil depth.
Rainforest represents 18.3% ofthe Forest Types (by area), New England forest 14.6%, Moist forest 42.9%, and Dry forest 23.2%. Forthe remainder ofthis report, and for the other fauna reports in this series, the forests ofthe Management Area are defmed as either Rainforest, Moist forest, Dry forest or New England forest within this definition ofBroad Forest Type.
Table 3. State Forest areas by Broad Forest Types (hectares). Adapted from Appendix 5, Wingham Management Plan (Forestry Commission ofNew South Wales, 1990).
Broad Forest Bulga Cockspur Dingo Doyles River Enfield Knorrit Total Type SF SF SF SF SF SF (%)
Rainforest 3,163 199 793 3,947 1,920 655 10,677 (18.3)
New England 1,264 386 710 2,991 2,945 183 8,479 forest (14.6)
Moist forest 10,816 576 4,286 6,662 1,066 1,580 24,986 (42.9)
Dry forest 7,216 360 3,037 863 2 2,056 13,534 (23.2)
Non-forest 359 29 78 51 4 56 577 Types (1.0)
TOTAL 22,818 1,550 8,904 14,514 5,937 4,530 58,253 (lOO)
Forestry Commission ofNew South Wales Forest Resources Series No. 19 Fauna Survey, Wingham Management Area, -5- Port Macquarie Region Part 1. Mammals
(d) Fire
Fires within the Management Area are a consequence ofnatural events, prescribed burning operations, arson, and escapes from adjacent agricultural land. In the short-term, regular fire in some environments maintains a more open, grassy vegetation understorey which in turn favours continuation ofa regular fire regime and perpetuation ofthe eucalypt forest. Itis likely that the absence offire in some other environments would favour the regeneration ofa mesophytic shrub component in the short-term, and the development ofmoister Forest Types in the long-term.
Fuel reduction burning has become a widespread, routine operation within the Forest Types with a xeric shrubby or grassy understorey (Forestry Commission ofNew South Wales, 1990). Increased accessibility to remote parts ofthe Management Area since the 1950's and an associated active fuel management strategy has contributed to a reduction in the risk and severity ofwildfires. Current fuel management practices fall into two broad categories. ,Firstly, post-harvest burning, which is designed to reduce accumulated logging slash, to assist in seed bed preparation and to afford some degree offire protection to the regenerating stand. Secondly, strategic ground burning at regular intervals, with the objective ofproviding corridors to contain the spread ofwildfires. Scheduled burning operations are carried out in such a manner so as to protect areas ofrainforest, sclerophyll Forest Types with an advanced understorey ofrainforest canopy species, and other areas susceptible to damage by fire.
Fire has had both positive and negative influences on patterns offorest growth and regeneration throughout parts ofthe Management Area. Because ofthe relatively high rainfall and elevation, fires tend to bum at low intensity and are more easily controlled. The Rainforest areas form a mosaic with Moist and Dry forest, providing a barrier to the extensive spread ofwildfires under normal conditions. Natural communities have particular responses to fire, and within the Management Area, post-fire regeneration ofvegetation and associated animal habitats is generally rapid. Since June 1990 however, rainfall has been below average every month except for September 1990 and June 1991. In the twelve months to the end ofNovember 1991, only 49% ofthe mean annual rainfall was received (Boot Hill Forestry Camp). It is likely that these conditions have influenced the recovery of vegetation communities from past fires (hazard reduction and wildfire) and therefore may also exert a controlling influence on population sizes ofsmall mammals, reptiles and amphibians in particular. Part ofthe Area was most recently burnt in March-April 1991, and fire history was a consideration in the design ofthe fauna survey (see Survey Methodology section).
(e) Timber harvesting
Most ofthe commercial Rainforest Types in the Area have been subjected to logging operations since the 1920s. Currently about 95% ofthe sub-tropical and warm temperate rainforest patches have been logged and are now in various stages ofrecovery dependent on the time since harvesting and the intensity ofthe original operation. The dedication ofpart ofthe Wauchope Management Area as part ofWerrikimbe National Park in 1982 meant that logging ofrainforest which had previously ceased in the Wingham Management Area recommenced in order to meet existing timber contracts. Rainforest harvesting was subsequently not completed until 1989/90, and only a few small isolated pockets of substantially unlogged rainforest remain.
Harvesting ofhardwood forests also began in the early 1900's, however about one-third ofthe accessible and productive hardwood types remain substantially unlogged. Harvesting operations varied in intensity but were selective, generally only sound, straight, mature stems were taken. From 1946, silvicultural treatment followed harvesting in Bulga State Forest. This involved culling by felling or ringbarking unmerchantable trees in conjunction with retention ofseed trees, and the thinning ofregrowth. Treatment was extended into the Blackbutt Types ofBulga and Dingo State Forests in 1954. In the mid-1950's silvicultural culling ofunmerchantable trees in harvested Blackbutt Types became more extensive, as did experimentation to determine the best methods of regenerating the Moist Hardwood Types. This involved various combinations ofpost-logging burning ofthe understorey, understorey/overstorey removal and sowing ofpreferred species. A total of6,356 hectares has been silviculturally treated by overstorey removal; 5,736 hectares prior to 1977 and 620 hectares since 1977 [see the Wingham Management Plan (Forestry Commission ofNew South Wales, 1990) for details].
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Fauna Survey, Wingham Management Area. Port Macquarie Region Part 1. Mammals -6-
As a consequence ofthis long and varied history oftimber harvesting and silvicultural treatment, there is an inevitable mosaic ofvarying logging intensities at the local scale, and larger scale structural and floristic differences between logged areas.
On a broad scale, the management history has resulted in three general categories oflogged forest:
1. Hardwood stands harvested prior to 1977 but with no culling ofremnant overstorey. These forests are dominated by various densities ofovermature trees with regeneration mostly 11-35 years old.
2. Previously harvested hardwood stands with the remnant overstorey culled now carrying stands ofregeneration that are substantially even-aged.
3. Areas harvested after 1977 to full economic utilisation limits but with sufficient overstorey removed to generally promote adequate natural regeneration.
In the context offauna habitat, forests in categories 2 and 3 are essentially similar, and were treated as such in the survey design process (see Survey Methodology section).
Forestry Commission ofNew South Wales Forest Resources Series No. 19 Fauna Survey, Wingham Management Area, -7- Port Macquarie Region Part 1. Mammals
SURVEY METHODOLOGY
This fauna sUlVey was undertaken with the primary objective to provide data for effective, scientifically-based forest management. Rather than provide a simple "inventory" ofspecies within the Management Area, the sUlVey was designed to provide a basis for long-tenn monitoring ofspecies and communities, particularly in response to forest management practices. In addition, data obtained from this sUlVey will be used to identify specific requirements for fauna conselVation and to pin-point habitats requiring further investigation.
The objectives ofthe sUlVey were as follows:
1. To compile an inventory ofselected faunal groups. These faunal groups were detennined to be those most affected by forestry management practices, and those considered to be "ofspecial interest" because ofconselVation status and representations made by other interested parties.
2. To characterize the fauna particularly in relation to vegetation communities.
3. To evaluate the conselVation significance ofthe fauna and their habitats in the study area in a local and regional context.
4. To assess the impact ofpast forestry practices on the faunal communities in order to provide guidelines for future management ofthe Area.
This section details the overall sampling strategy used for all faunal groups (section 1), and the specific implementation ofthis strategy for the mammal sUlVey (section 2).
1. Overall Sampling Strategy
There were three basic strategies employed during this sUlVey. Firstly, a broad area assessment (tenned "general sUlVey") which aimed to identify general trends ofspecies distributions and locate areas which required "specialized sUlVey". Secondly, site-specific sUlVey (tenned "plot-based sUlVey") was utilised to obtain quantitative data on the richness and relative abundance ofspecies within areas differing with respect to Broad Forest Type, Management History and Altitude. Thirdly, "specialized sUlVey" techniques were used in habitats recognised as potentially important to certain faunal groups, particularly species considered to be high conselVation significance or "ofspecial concern". These strategies fonn a composite approach to fauna assessment which is currently being employed by the Forestry Commission ofNew South Wales in sUlVeys for Environmental Impact Statement purposes on the north coast ofNew South Wales (Shields et. al., 1991; York et al., 1991).
(a) General survey
This component ofthe sUlVey involved a study ofthe distribution ofspecies over the entire Management Area. Data for the general sUlVey were generated principally from opportunistic sightings while driving to and from study sites, and while conducting the different phases ofthe fauna sUlVey. Specific road transects (vehicle and foot traverse) were used to sample certain faunal groups. This infonnation was supplemented by discussion with local Forestry staff and nearby landholders, by records from the literature and from museum specimens. Special effort was made to record rare or cryptic species, and to validate records.
(b) Plot-based survey
The specific purpose ofthe plot-based sUlVey was to adequately sample the range ofvegetation, habitat and management history within the Management Area. The number ofstudy sites required to achieve this aim was detennined primarily by the environmental heterogeneity ofthe Area, which in turn was influenced by the number ofBroad Forest Types, the geology and soils ofthe area, the range ofaltitude, the nature ofthe topography, and the management history. These factors were taken into
Forest Resources Series No. 19 Forestry Commission ofNew South Wales Fauna Survey, Wingham Management Area, Port Macquarie Region Part 1. Mammals -8-
consideration and a stratification process developed. While a geographic (spatial) stratification was also recognised as essential, in practice this was achieved through stratification on other factors.
(i) Stratification by BroadForest Type
For the purposes ofthis fauna survey, vegetation communities were grouped into 4 "Broad Forest Types" (see Introduction section). These were Rainforest, Moist forest, Dry forest and New England forest This methodology is consistent with that used by the Forestry Commission ofNew South Wales for major fauna survey for Environmental Impact Statement purposes (see Shields et. al., 1991; Yorlc et al., 1991), and represents a division based on general habitat type, although species composition is an integral component offorest typing. This strategy is appropriate due to the mobility ofmost faunal groups, and their generally coarse response to physical habitat variation. Responses to habitat heterogeneity are detected and compensated for by the design ofsurvey plots (see part (vii). The use of"specialized survey" supplements this approach for groups with more specific requirements (see (c) below).
(ii) Stratification by Altitude
Within the Management Area altitude exerts a control on habitat primarily through influences on precipitation and temperature regimes. Two altitudinal classes were selected: 0-500 m. (low) and >500 m. (high) as!. This also allowed a spatial stratification ofstudy plots to be achieved, thereby taking into account geographic variability in Broad Forest Types.
(iii) Stratification by Management History
There is an inevitable mosaic oflogging intensities at a small scale within particular logged areas. As an intention ofthe fauna survey is an investigation ofbroad logging impacts, the most practical option is to accept local variations as part ofthe larger scale and not sample specifically for the total range of intensities.
During the stratification process, three meaningful categories based on Management History were recognised:
1. Logged and silviculturally treated. This included areas that were logged prior to 1977 and were treated to remove overstorey, or logged since 1977.
2. Logged and not silviculturally treated. These were areas logged prior to 1977 and not treated to remove overstorey.
3. Principally unlogged.
Within the logged categories, areas harvested within the last seven years were not sampled. This strategy allows the impact oflogging to be more accurately determined by avoiding short-tenn impacts and concentrate on medium to longer tenn effects. The Forestry Commission ofNew South Wales is currently undertaking specific research programs to investigate time-related changes after logging.
In order to reduce the variability due to time since logging within the above categories, narrow age classes were selected. Plots were allocated to logged areas that were treated between 7 to 13 years ago and between 25 to 35 years ago to maximise the experimental benefit ofa limited number ofplots. Approximate time periods of 10 and 30 years post-logging were chosen to allow comparability with other research programs in the Wingham Management Area (see Binns, 1990). For the purpose ofplot selection, two classes ofManagement History were considered: logged and unlogged.
Forestry Commission ofNew South Wales Forest Resources Series No. 19 Fauna Survey, Wingham Management Area, -9- PortMacquarie Region Part 1. Manunals
(iv) Plot selection
The first stage ofplot selection involved the preparation ofa base map at 1:25,000 showing the four Broad Forest Types. Overlays were then prepared showing the three categories recognise of Management History, and the two Altitude classes. The number ofcombinations ofeach strata then determines the number of"categories" in which sampling is to be conducted. Within this Management Area, certain combinations do not exist (eg. New England Hardwood Types do not occur at low Altitudes). The following twelve categories were identified:
1. Rainforest, logged, high altitude 7. Dry forest, logged, high altitude 2. Rainforest, logged, low altitude 8. Dry forest, logged, low altitude 3. Moist forest, logged, high altitude 9. Dry forest, unlogged, high altitude 4. Moist forest, logged, low altitude 10. Dry forest, unlogged, low altitude 5. Moist forest, unlogged, high altitude 11. New England, logged, high altitude 6. Moist forest, unlogged, low altitude 12. New England, unlogged, high altitude
In orderto sample the range ofphysical environments within each extensive habitat/environmental strata, and to provide an estimate ofnatural and "treatment" variability for statistical purposes, it is necessary to replicate within categories. In keeping with existing fauna sOlvey strategies (York et QI., 1991), the requirement for four replicates per category was adopted.
The location ofthe "categories" in the whole Management Area capable offulfilling plot requirements were designated and numbered. A standard 1 km grid was applied to the category maps. A list of random numbers was used to determine intersection points and fulfil the tally required in each category. Where there was insufficient mapped area ofthe nominated category at the intersection point it was allowable to locate the plot on the map within adjacent 1 km grid squares providing the Broad Forest Type, Management History and Altitude were similar. Six replicates ofeach category were initially identified and randomly located in this way to ensure a high level ofobjectivity.
In extensive fauna survey such as this, "representativeness" and accessibility are important constraints. to physical plot location. Plots were established in the field by selecting a large area ofthe habitat type occurring in the randomly selected map unit. The map unit was dropped from consideration ifit did not contain a sufficient area ofthe required habitat type in an accessible location. Similarly, wet weather access and safety considerations placed constraints on plot suitability. This ensured that the plots could be sampled without edge effects and with maximum efficiency. From the six possible plots initially selected, four were chosen within each category which met the stated requirements. In three instances there were insufficient suitable plots in a category, and the selection processed was recommenced until four replicates could be satisfactorily located (resulting in the establishment of plots DUL7, MOH7 and MUL7).
(v) Special considerations
There is currently less than 150 hectares ofunlogged Rainforest within the Management Area. Because much ofthis occurs in narrow, fragmented strips or in steep and inaccessible terrain, sufficient replicate plots could not be located. This was compensated for by specialized surveys in appropriate areas. Similarly, there were insufficient areas ofthe "low Altitude, logged Rainforest" category in which to establish four replicate plots. Existing areas are narrow and fragmented, :tloristically more depauperate, and more heavily logged due to their accessibility. Only one plot could be established in this category.
Unlogged compartments scheduled for harvesting in the short to medium term were assessed to ensure that categories were adequately covered by the plot-based survey. It was not an intention ofthis survey to assess the short-term impact offire on faunal communities. Due to the extent ofrecent fires in the Management Area however, it was necessary to place some plots in recently burnt forest. This was avoided where it was possible to do so without compromising the objectivity ofthe survey design.
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(vi) Plot establishment
Using this strategy, 45 permanent study "plots" were established within the Management Area, sampling Rainforest, Moist Hardwood, Dry Hardwood and New England forest. Plots were established within logged and unlogged areas, and at high and low Altitude within each Broad Forest Type (where available). Four replicates ofeach habitat "category" were established (except for low Altitude Rainforest).
Plots were allocated a 4-component code (Table 4) which defined their Broad Forest Type (R=Rainforest, M=Moist forest, D=Dry forest, N=New England forest), Management History (L=logged, U=unlogged), Altitude (H=High, L=Low), and replicate number (1-7). Site specific information for each plot is presented in Table 5, and locations shown in Figure 2.
Table 4. Allocation ofstudy plots within the Management Area.
Broad Forest Altitude Logged Plots Unlogged Plots Type
Rainforest High RLHl, RLH3, RLH4, RLH5 Specialized survey used. Low RLLl Moist forest High MLH3, MLH4, MLH5, MLH6 MUHl, MUH2, MUHS, MUH7 Low MLLl, MLL3, MLL5, MLL6 MUL2, MUL3, MUL5, MUL7 Dry forest High DLH3, DLH4, DLHS, DLH6 DUHl, DUH4, DUH5, DUH6 Low DLLl, DLL3, DLL4, DLL5 DULl, DUL3, DUL5, DUL7 New England High NLH2, NLH3, NLH4, NLH6 NUHl, NUH2, NUH5, NUH6
Key for Table 5. General Information for Survey Plots.
PJotCodes: First letter - Broad Forest Type Last fire; * Last known recorded fire. Second letter - Management History ** Fire history uncertain, however no Third letter - Altitude fire in last ten years. Last digit - Replicate number *** Long history ofburning, last frre five-ten years ago. Altitude: H- >500m as!. **** Long history of burning, last frre L- <500m as!. probably within last two years. A Burnt in March 1991 Management U- Substantially unlogged NB No record offrre on Rainforest plots. ~: L -logged (1) before 1977, no treatment (2) before 1977, silviculturally treated (3) after 1977, high intensity logging vegetation: # Baur's Forest Types (Forestry Commission ofNew South Wales, 1989) ## Floristic Communities as reported by Binns and Chapman (1992). Overstorey Code (see Appendix 1) Forest Understorey Code: Rainforest: 1, 2, 3, 4, 5, 6 Wet Sclerophyll: 7, 8 Dry Sclerophyll: 9
Forestry Commission ofNew South Wales Forest Resources Series No. 19 Fauna Survey, Wingham Management Area, -11- Port Macquarie Region Part 1. Mammals
TableS. General infonnation for fauna survey plots.
Plot Cpt. Standard Grid Broad Forest Forest Floristic Harvesting Altitude Year of Code No. Reference Type Type# Community ## History (m.as!.) Last Fire*
DLH3 47 264-963 Dry Hardwood 37a 11/9 1957-67 (2) 650 [H] 1951 DLH4 109 309-078 Dry Hardwood 62a 6/9 1977-87 (3) 620 [H] ** DLHS 81 160-850 Dry Hardwood 62a 6/9 1957-67 (2) 545 [H] 1989 DLH6 29 260-989 Dry Hardwood 37a 11{7 1957-67 (2) 700 [H] ** DLLl 82 171-851 Dry Hardwood 60 6/9 1957-67 (1) 420 [L] 1991" DLL3 9 146-972 Dry Hardwood 62b 9/9 1957-67 (1) 445 [L] 1966 DLIA 73 193-788 Dry Hardwood 62b 6/9 1977-87 (1) 290 [L] 1991" DLLS 102 235-879 Dry Hardwood 62b 6/9 1957-67 (2) 500 [L] 1990 DUHl 117 158-000 Dry Hardwood 37a 6/9 Unlogged 680 [H] ** DUH4 157 174-017 Dry Hardwood 62a 6/9 Unlogged 650 [H] 1980 DUHS 183 131-048 Dry Hardwood 62b 6/9 Unlogged 620 [H] **** DUH6 183 133-040 Dry Hardwood 62a 6/9 Unlogged 610 [H] **** DULl 145 151-930 Dry Hardwood 60 6/9 Unlogged 330 [L] 1980 DUL3 149 132-911 Dry Hardwood 62b 9/9 Unlogged 285 [L] 1989 DULS 81 150-856 Dry Hardwood 62b 6/9 Unlogged 310 [L] 1982 DUL7 149 140-916 Dry Hardwood 62a 9/9 Unlogged 350 [L] 1980 MLH3 88 258-069 Moist Hardwood 47b 7{7 1957-67 (2) 640 [H] 1958 MLH4 105 211-901 Moist Hardwood 47a 7/8 1957-67 (2) 600 [H] 1966 MLH5 120 192-132 Moist Hardwood 47a 7{l 1980-81 (3) 670 [H] ** MLH6 106 207-900 Moist Hardwood 47b 11{7 1957-67 (2) 565 [H] 1970 MLLl 115 180-878 Moist Hardwood 47b 5/9 1957-67 (1) 415 [L] ** MLL3 116 150-990 Moist Hardwood 53 5/4 1957-67 (2) 480 [L] ** MLLS 98 219-879 Moist Hardwood 47b 6/4 1977-87 (1) 230 [L] 1980 MLL6 103 212-888 Moist Hardwood 47b 5/4 1957-67 (2) 455 [L] 1963 MUHl 274 117-215 Moist Hardwood 46 9/9 Unlogged 655 [H] 1983 MUH2 212 205-134 Moist Hardwood 47b 5{l Unlogged 760 [H] ** MUH5 233 158-199 Moist Hardwood 46 12/7 Unlogged 665 [H] ** MUH7 246 203-230 Moist Hardwood 47a 5{l Unlogged 800 [H] ** MUL2 146 150-930 Moist Hardwood 47b 6/8 Unlogged 440 [L] 1991" MUL3 244 250-199 Moist Hardwood 53 7/9 Unlogged 470 [L] 1986 MULS 157 172-027 Moist Hardwood 53 11/9 Unlogged 455 [L] 1980 MUL7 170 184-104 Moist Hardwood 60 7{l Unlogged 475 [L] ** NLH2 160 181-041 New England 163b 1'}J9 1983-84 (3) 830 [H] 1984 NLH3 28 241-990 New England 163b 1'}J9 1960-61 (1) 785 [H] ** NLH4 85 165-878 New England 163b 12/8 1957-67 (2) 700 [H] 1957 NLH6 224 159-163 New England 163a 12/7 1977-87 (3) 950 [H] 1984 NUHl 228 143-171 New England 163b 1'}J9 Unlogged 635 [H] *** NUH2 280 098-251 New England 163a 12/9 Unlogged 790 [H] *** NUH5 266 129-251 New England 163a 12/7 Unlogged 845 [H] *** NUH6 230 160-180 New England 163a 1'}J9 Unlogged 875 [H] 1984 RLHl 266 121-250 Rainforest 2{3 3/4 late 1940's 790 [H] NB RLH3 247 185-245 Rainforest 12c 2/4 late 1940's 850 [H] NB RLH4 52 210-971 Rainforest 1{3 2/4 1955-57 790 [H] NB RLH5 141 180-959 Rainforest 1{3 3/4 1984-85 800 [H] NB RLLl 72 179-821 Rainforest 23/26 3/4 1925-30 470 [L] NB
For plot details see text and key on opposite page.
Forest Resources Series No. 19 Forestry Commission ofNew South Wales Fauna Survey. Wingham Management Area, Port Macquarie Region Part 1. Mammals -12-
(vii) Plot design
At the nominated plot marlcer, a vegetation sUlvey plot was established (see Binns and Chapman, 1992). A 500 m transect was then established which bisected the plot on which the vegetation was quantitatively assessed, and a fauna count station ("point") established at each 100 m marlc along this transect (see York et al., 1991). This design enables a homogeneous area ofvegetation and habitat to be sampled, and also takes into account small-scale habitat variability.
(c) Specialized survey
Where a particular vegetation community or habitat was identified because ofa likelihood ofbeing affected by some management practice, because it was spatially restricted, or because ofparticular conservation interest for a faunal group(s), a "specialized survey" was undertaken. In addition, surveys for fauna considered to be "of special interest" were undertaken by appropriate specialists. Details ofthese survey locations and techniques are provided in the Methodology section ofeach fauna report.
(d) Other considerations
In a submission to the Forestry Commission of New South Wales (16th May, 1991), the National Parks and Wildlife Service ofNew South Wales raised a number ofissues that it considered should be addressed in the Wingham Management Area Environmental Impact Statement. Although the submission is extensive and issues raised often generalised in nature, the comments were taken into account during the planning and implementation ofthe fauna survey and are considered in detail in the Environmental Impact Statement (Truyard Ply. Ltd., 1992).
Unless otherwise stated, the Revised (Interim) Schedule 12 published on the 4th March, 1992 was used in conjunction with information obtained from the published literature and survey results in order to assess the conservation "significance" offauna within the Management Area.
(e) Data presentation and analysis
For the four fauna reports, the following general fonnat was followed:
Introduction: A review ofthe relevant literature review and background material. A comment on the submission from the National Parks and Wildlife Service of New South Wales.
Methodology: A description oftechniques used and estimate ofsurvey effectiveness.
Results: A description ofthe survey results, including:
Faunallists. A list of all fauna expected and observed from the study area, referenced to indicate sources ofdata. Identification ofspecies ofparticular conservation significance. The results ofthe general survey are presented in tabular fonn, and by Broad Forest Type and Management History where appropriate.
For plot-based data, a tabulation of faunal groups by Broad Forest Type and Management History (and other stratification where appropriate).
For plot-based data, a quantitative consideration ofwhether faunal abundance differs between Broad Forest Types, Altitude classes and Management treatments. These conclusions are supported by statistical analysis where appropriate.
For specialized survey data, a discussion ofthe habitat requirements ofspecies, and a consideration oftheir patterns ofdistribution.
Forestry Commission of New South Wales Forest Resources Series No. 19 f Specialized Survey Sites @ .·I~UC~G;J:
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:= '" ~I E(;ENO Figure 2. Location of General Fauna Plots, Specialized Survey WIN(;IIAM Roads .nd Tr.cks Sites & Road Transects. MANA(;El\-tENT AREA
I::I~.tORt.SI R" (Wt:R" r10!'S , Riven and Cn:... "s :\~IVHIRt.S1 RY ('O\I~II~SI()'"
~tMn..,,;tmtOI :\re .. Onundury Plot Location: • , TIWY,\RO PTY. LT\) "oCIWTH A11itll.Ik JI . >SOOmasl. ""- "'or~)t ShUt Anuod .. r)' DIVIRO:'oo\II::NTAI. PLA!\I'OERS --... Ty~ ~rl~~~_~. Plot Codes: First letter' Broad "orest L- ulllor~ed Fauna Survey, Wingham Management Area, Port Macquarie Region Part 1. Mammals -14- Discussion: A consideration ofthe results ofthe survey, including: A discussion ofhabitat availability and condition within the study area, in light ofthe known requirements ofparticular species. Identification offauna! habitats ofparticular conservation significance, including the location of such Forest Types and habitats which could be considered worthy of reservation, An assessment ofthe significance ofthe fauna of the study area in regional and local context A consideration of the likely impacts on the fauna by the proposed forestry operations (both positive and negative) and a discussion ofpossible options to ameliorate the likely impacts. 2. Mammal Survey Methodology The field-based mammal survey was carried out principally by Ray Williams and Brian Wilson from ECOTONE Ecological Consultants, with some support from Forestry Commission ofNew South Wales personnel. Surveys for the Hastings River Mouse were carried out by Bill Chapman and Pat Murphy from Wauchope Research (Forestry Commission ofNew South Wales). Surveys were conducted during the period 5th August - 24th October 1991, and data were provided to the Forestry Commission for analysis and interpretation. Survey methodology followed York. et al. (1991) and involved three complementary approaches. The overall strategy is described in the previous section ofthis report and teclmiques specific to mammal survey are considered below. (a) General survey In order to determine the distribution and abundance of mammalian fauna within the Wingham Management Area in general terms, a broad scale survey was conducted. Four approaches were used to obtain data of this nature: literature review, opportunistic sightings, road survey, and predator scat analysis. Results from these procedures are presented in tabular form and discussed. (i) literature review Relevant reports held by the National Parks and Wildlife Service ofNew South Wales (Armidale, Port Macquarie and Newcastle Regional offices), the Forestry Commission of New South Wales, University libraries and private individuals were utilised to prepare a list ofspecies known (or expected) from the region. This information was supplemented by discussion with local Forestry Commission ofNew South Wales staff and by searches ofrecords held by the Australian Museum. (ii) Opportunistic sightings A substantial amount ofinformation was accumulated from opportunistic sightings made while driving to and from study sites, and while conducting the other (bird, reptile and amphibian) phases of the fauna survey. (iii) Road survey In order to survey arboreal mammals across the broad range of habitats within the Management Area, twenty-five 5 km road transects were determined from appropriate maps. The transects were located (as far as possible) in areas ofhomogeneous habitat, and were spatially arranged so as to be geographically comprehensive. Field reconnaissance indicated that 21 of these transects were feasible (access and safety considerations), and these were then "spotlighted" from a vehicle travelling 5 km per hour, using two observers and l00W spotlights. Surveys began when it was completely dark. and ended no later than one-half hour before sunrise. Road survey locations are shown on Figure 2. - Forestry Commission of New South Wales Forest Resources Series No. 19 Fauna Survey, Wingham Management Area, -15- Port Macquarie Region Part 1. Mammals At the beginning and end ofeach 5 km unit, a walk spotlight was conducted over the 100 m preceding the start ofthe transect, and over the 100 m past the fInish ofthe transect. This was to assist in the detection ofsmall arboreal marsupials, which are often over-looked in road transeets. Also at the beginning and end ofeach 5 km unit, directly before the walk spot-light, taped calls from the Masked, Sooty and Powerful Owls were played for fIve minutes each (total of 15 minutes from a standard tape). A ten minute waiting period for responses followed the taped calls. While this was primarily to elicit responses from nocturnal birds (see Part 2 in this report series) this technique often evokes a response from arboreal marsupials in the immediate vicinity. Information recorded for each species observed included an accurate road location, right angle distance from the road, and the species and approximate size (D.B.H.) ofthe tree in which the animal was observed. Notes recorded on foraging, reproductive condition, sex and age were recorded where possible. (iv) Predator scat analysis Predator scats were collected opportunistically during all phases ofthe mammal survey. Predator seats contains hairs, bones, feathers and scales which can be identifIed by a skilled observer and are useful, in particular, to detect cryptic species. The material was analysed by Ms. Barbara Triggs, a recognised authority in this fIeld. (b) Plot-based survey For the quantitative phase ofthe study, the Area was stratified according to Broad Forest Type, Altitude ~d Management History. The location ofstudy plots is shown in Figure 2, and has been previously described. (i) Large arboreal marsupials Each 500 m transect was surveyed on foot on two separate occasions, with observations being made during the period from the onset ofdarkness (half - 1hour after sunset) to one halfhour before sunrise. An initial ten minute listening period to detect any mammals which were calling or moving about on the site was conducted at the beginning ofthe transect. Calls ofthe Sooty Owl, Masked Owl and Powerful Owl were played from a standardized tape through a IOW speaker for 15 minutes, followed by another 10 minutes ofwaiting for responses. While primarily used to detect the presence ofowls (see Part 2 in this report series), this technique often elicits a response from arboreal marsupials. The transect was then surveyed for a minimum of45 minutes with two observers using lOOW spotlights. All animals seen within a 20 m band either side ofthe transect were counted for the purpose ofpopulation density analysis. All animals seen were recorded to detennine species richness infonnation and to provide additional explanatory data. Data for each species recorded included tree species, an estimate oftree size (D.B.H.), and a perpendicular distance approximation from the transect line to the animal. (ii) Small arboreal mammals In order to detect small arboreal mammals not always adequately detected by spotlighting and to quantify their use ofthe tree resource, 25 tree-mounted traps were installed in each study plot At each ofthe fIve "points" within the plot, fIve 33 x 10 x 9 cm aluminium ("Elliot") box traps were attached to brackets mounted approximately two metres above ground on trees representative ofthat Forest Type. Each trap was placed inside a small plastic bag to exclude moisture, and baited with candied honey (see Smith and Phillips, 1984). The tree trunk adjacent to the trap was sprayed with a honey/ water mixture as an attractant. Traps were checked daily, and re-baited as required. Animals captured were identified, weighed and sexed, given a temporary marking to distinguish them ifsubsequently recaptured, and then released. Traps were operated for four successive nights during fIne weather, providing data for 4,500 trap nights in total. Forest Resources Series No. 19 Forestry Commission ofNew South Wales Fauna Survey, Wingham Management Area, Port Macquarie Region Part 1. Mammals -16- (iii) Small terrestrial mammals In keeping with the specific aims ofthis investigation, survey ofsmall terrestrial mammals was directed specifically towards species ofspecial interest (eg. the Hastings River Mouse Pseudomys oralis and other uncommon species) where distribution and habitats for these species are not well documented for New South Wales. Surveys were also conducted in selected habitats considered to be restricted or having potentially high conservation status. The methodology for surveying these species involved the use ofplot-based pitfall traps (concurrent with surveys for reptiles and amphibians) and use ofElliot traps at eight specialized survey sites. The techniques for specialized survey are described in (c) below. On each ofthe 45 plots, one pitfall trap (10 litre plastic bucket) was installed in an appropriate location within ten metres ofeach ofthe five marlced "points". Traps were buried with their lips flush to the ground surface and had a cover fitted to exclude rain, debris and non-target animals. Traps were partially filled with one litre ofa 10% Formalin solution and left undisturbed for a period of 14 days. (iv) Large terrestrial mammals In this report, "large terrestrial mammals" is a broad term which basically covers most ofthe mammal groups not otherwise discussed. Primarily it deals with the monotremes, large dasyurids (Quolls), bandicoots, wombats, macropods (kangaroos and wallabies) and larger introduced mammals. The presence on, or recent use of, the study plots by large terrestrial mammals was detected firstly through direct observation, secondly by systematic searches for evidence such as tracks, diggings, burrows and scats (30 minutes in the vicinity ofeach ofthe five "points"), and thirdly by the use ofcage traps. Specialized surveys were also conducted for particular fauna that were considered to be "ofspecial interest". A minimum oftwo 82 x 25 x 23 cm (or similar size) wire cage traps were placed along animal runways in each study plot The traps were positioned in such a way so as to maximise the likelihood ofcapturing animals. Additional cage traps were used at, or nearby, the fauna transects at the discretion ofthe consultant, in suitable habitat in or adjacent to the transect, in such a position which maximised likely capture success. The total number ofadditional traps did not exceed eight (ie. a maximum often per plot) and were used to increase the chances offauna observations in the habitat type sampled by the transect. Traps were baited with pet food (to detect carnivorous marsupials) and a peanut-butter!bread mixture (to detect possums, bandicoots and small macropods). Traps were checked daily, and re-baited as required. Animals captured were identified, weighed and sexed, given a temporary marldng to distinguish them ifsubsequently recaptured, and then released. Traps were operated for four successive nights during fine weather, providing data for 752 trap nights in total. (c) Specialized survey In order to sample habitats not feasibly surveyed by the plot-based procedure, surveys were conducted within two patches ofunlogged Rainforest, two rocky areas, and three moist grassy areas. Cage traps and a line ofElliot traps were employed at each ofthese locations. In addition, general searches were carried out to record signs ofthe presence or activity ofmammals. Three additional survey locations were specifically sampled for the Hastings River Mouse Pseudomys oralis. The locations ofall these specialized survey points are shown on Figure 2 and described below. (i) Unlogged Rainforest Two remnant patches ofunlogged Rainforest were selected for survey: Plot XRF1 - Located in the northern end ofCompartment 118, at the head ofMurray's Creek, accessed from Homewoods Road (Map ref: 417500E 650800N Kerriki East 1:25000 mapsheet). Three cages (baited with a combination ofpeanut butter/rolled oats and cat food) and 25 Elliot traps (baited with peanut butter/rolled oats) were placed in this habitat and left open for four nights. Forestry Commission ofNew South Wales Forest Resources Series No. 19 Fauna Survey, Wingham Management Area, -17- PortMacquarie Region Part 1. Mammals Plot XRF2 - Located within a Rainforest patch within the boundaries ofthe Dingo Forest Park Reserve, on the eastern side ofKnodingbul Road. A line of25 Elliot traps and three cage traps was established and operated over four nights. (ii) Rocky habitats , Plot XRK.l - A rocky outcrop located in unlogged Dry forest in Compartment 157, midway between plots DUH4 and MUL5. The plot was located 30 m on the eastern side ofthe track leading to MUL5 (Map ref: 417500E 650220N Kokomerican East 1:25000 mapsheet). The site contained a small rocky bluff and was upslope from an area ofunlogged Moist forest in the gully below. TIlis site was chosen because it represented an unusual combination ofmicro habitat elements. Twenty-five Elliot traps and three cage traps were operated over four consecutive nights. Plot XRK2 -A similar rocky outcrop located on Murray's Creek Road 0.5 km from Knodingbul Road. A line of25 Elliot traps and two cage traps were placed adjacent to Murray's Creek road and left open for four consecutive nights. (Ui) Pseudomys oralis habitats Trapping for small terrestrial mammals (in particular the Hastings River Mouse Pseudomys oralis) was carried out at three locations which were regarded as potentially good habitat for P. oralis based on previous experience and known habitat preferences (see King, 1984; Dickman and McKechnie, 1985; Read, 1988, 1989). Twenty-five 33 x 10 x 9 cm aluminium ("Elliot") box traps were placed along transect lines at each site and baited with a peanut butter/rolled oats mixture. Traps were checked daily, and re-baited as required. Animals captured were identified, weighed, sexed and measured, given a temporary marking to distinguish them ifsubsequently recaptured, and then released. Traps were operated for four successive nights (15th-18th October, 1991) during fme weather, providing data for 300 trap nights in total. Sites 1 (SSI) and 2 (SS2) were respectively located adjacent to Blue Knob Forest Road (Map ref: 426900E 650790N) and Frenchs Creek Forest Road (Map ref: 423800E 650780N Kokomerican 1:25000 mapsheet) in Bulga State Forest Both sites were extremely dry at the time ofthe survey and, although located in gullies, there was no pennanent water. Site 3 (SS3) was located to the west of Grassy Ridge Road (Map ref: 411800E 652160N Ralfes Peak. 1:25000 mapsheet) near an unnamed fire trail in Enfield State Forest. Pennanent water was available at Site 3. (iv) Grassy habitats A number ofgrassy sites were chosen as representative ofthis habitat, and because they were potentially environments in which to detect a number ofuncommon, small terrestrial animals (including Pseudomys oralis). Plot SS4 - An area ofblady/tussock grass near plot MUL7. A line of25 Elliot traps were placed in this habitat and left open for three consecutive nights. Plot SS5 - An area ofthick blady grass opposite the start ofplot MUHS. A line of25 Elliot traps were placed inthis habitat and left open for three consecutive nights. Plot SS6 - An area ofswampy grassland at Maxwell's Flat. The trap line was placed on the opposite side ofDoyles River from the camping area (25 traps x 2 nights) and ran through areas ofgrass tussocks, sedges, reeds and bracken. Forest Resources Series No. 19 Forestry Commission ofNew South Wales Fauna Survey, Wingham Management Area, Port Macquarie Region Part 1. Mammals -18- (d) Survey limitations All fauna! groups exhibit seasonal and diurnal patterns ofabundance and activity which influence their "detection" in surveys. This study was conducted over an extensive time period (5th August to 24th October, 1991) which was selected to coincide with periods ofhighest activity and/or easiest detection ofmost faunal groups. The extensive drought in the region however meant that population sizes ofa number ofgroups were low, hence assessment oftheir abundance was made more difficult In addition, population sizes ofthe Brown Antechinus Antechinus stuartii could be expected to be at their lowest (seasonally) during the survey period. Despite these limitations it is considered that the results of this survey represent an effective and significant sample ofthe fauna present. Data from the plot-based survey are expressed as relative indices ofspecies richness and abundance. It is important to realise that these values do not represent total. richness or abundance, but a measure (achieved by equivalent search effort) by which comparisons can be made. Because Broad Forest Types have been accurately mapped across the study area, it is then possible to extrapolate the "plot-based" survey results to similar habitats within the Management Area. Realistic conclusions can therefore be drawn concerning the distribution offauna and the future ~mplications offorestry management practices. (e) Data analysis Results from the "general survey" and "specialized survey" are presented in tabular fonn and discussed. For the plot-based component, data are first presented in tabular fonn, partitioned by Broad Forest Type, Management History and Altitude. Mean or total values (as appropriate) are presented f for each replicate plot. Statistical procedures were then utilized to quantitatively examine the influences ofBroad Forest Type, Management History and Altitude on mammal species within the Wingham Management Area. -- - The influence ofthese factors in detennining the observed variation in selected variables was examined firstly by the use ofthe Analysis ofVariance (ANOVA) procedure. This technique is used here to test the hypothesis that measured variation in the dependent variables (relative species richness and population density) is not influenced by the different categories ofeach independent variable (Broad Forest Type, Management History and Altitude). In the calculations, the overall variation (variance) in the dependent variable is assumed to be the sum ofvariation within the independent variables, interactions between these variables, and variation due to random fluctuations in the system (error). ANOVA compares the variance in the dependent variable (attributed to each independent variable) with the error tenn to produce an F ratio, a statistic with a known probability distribution. The significance (P) value represents the probability ofobtaining this result due to chance factors alone (ie. random variability in the system). In this study, any result with a P value ofless than 0.05 (5%) was deemed not to have occurred by chance and to reflect a n:ill. (significant) result. That is, the dependent variable (Broad Forest Type, Management History or Altitude) md. have a significant effect on the dependent variable (relative species richness or population density). Unless statistically significant interaction (P <0.05) was shown to exist between the variables, the interaction tenn was added to the error tenn in the analysis. Appropriate test statistics and their probability values are noted in the text. In order to better understand the nature ofthe observed variation, data were then compared across the different Broad Forest Type and Management History categories using One-way Analysis ofVariance procedures (ie. without Altitude being considered as a source ofvariation). With small sample sizes there was a risk that certain conditions required by this parametric procedure could not be verified, in particular, the homogeneity ofvariances (all variances equivalent). Therefore a non-parametric analysis (the Kruskal-Wallis One-way ANOVA) was utilised for verification. In every case both procedures produced comparable results. Forestry Commission ofNew South Wales Forest Resources Series No. 19 Fauna Survey, Wingham Management Area. -19- Port Macquarie Region Part 1. Mammals Where the ANOVA suggested that a significant difference between categories did exist (P <0.05), a multiple range test (Scheffe's procedure) was implemented to identify which group means were significantly different Mean values are presented in ranked order in tables as appropriate. Data from the detailed (plot-based) component ofthe survey were analysed using the SPSSX statistical package (SPSSX Inc., 1988) on a VAX Iln85 mainframe computer. Details ofthe analytical procedures used can be found in Steel and Torrie (1981) and zar (1984). Forest Resources Series No. 19 Forestry Commission ofNew South Wales r------~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~------ Fauna Survey, Wingham Management Area, Port Macquarie Region Part 1. Mammals -20- RESULTS 1. General Survey A general list ofmammalian fauna known from the Wingham Management Area and surrounding region was compiled through literature review, opportunistic sightings, road survey, and predator scat analysis. These results are summarised in Appendix 2 and described below. (a) literature review The Management Area forms the southern part ofan extensive and continuous tract offorested country containing a diversity ofhabitat types. This largely uninterrupted area offorested land includes Doyles River State Forest (part), Werrikimbe National Pm and Mount Boss State Forest to the north, and Enfield (part) and Riamukka State Forests to the west. Smaller areas ofreserved forested land in the vicinity include Woko National Park, and Seaview, Jasper, Weelah, and Boorganna Nature Reserves (see Figure 1). Limited fauna surveys have been conducted within some ofthese areas, usually resulting in the production of"checklists" rather than specific habitat/locality based infonnation. A list of 16 native mammal species have been compiled from limited field survey and expected occurrences for Woko National Pm. For Werrikimbe National Park, a similar approach produced a list of33 species, while an extensive analysis ofDingo Canis jamiliaris dingo scats (Harden and Robertshaw, 1985) provided a list of30 mammal species. Checklists for Boorganna and Mt Seaview Nature Reserves report 14 and 12 native mammal species respectively. Data from all these sources has been incorporated into a list ofmammal fauna known to occur in the Management Area and surrounding region (see Appendix 2). Caution should be exercised in the interpretation ofthose lists which are compiled extensively from expected rather than known distributions. No comprehensive fauna surveys have previously been conducted in the Management Area. A four day survey ofpart ofDoyles River State Forest (Causeway Road and The Cells areas) detected 16 species ofnative mammal, including three bat species (Hines, 1991). A similar survey in Chichester State Forest (70 km to the south) recorded 18 mammal species, including five bats and one introduced species (feral cat). There is no infonnation available on habitat preferences or relative abundance of species for either ofthese surveys. A three-day survey ofparts ofEnfield State Forest reported by Smith (1991) recorded eleven native mammal species. Most animals were common, widely distributed species, however a Long-nosed Potoroo Potorous tridaetylus and a Spotted-tail Quoll Dasyurus maeulatus were recorded, and there was an unconfinned sighting ofa Parma Wallaby Maeropus parma. A preliminary survey of arboreal mammals in the Daisy Patch Flora Reserve in part ofEnfield State Forest to the west ofthe Management Area was carried out by staff ofthe CSIRO Division ofWildlife and Ecology in 1990 (Cayton, 1992). Four common species were detected: the Greater Glider Petauroides volans, Sugar Glider Petaurus brevieeps, Common Brushtail Possum Triehosurus vulpeeula and Mountain Brushtail Possum Triehosurus eaninus. A similar preliminary survey was conducted by a team from the National Parks and Wildlife Service ofNew South Wales (Scotts, 1992) in parts ofEnfield State forest. Only presence/absence ofspecies was recorded and this survey reported primarily common species: the Brown Antechinus Anteehinus stuartii, Long-nosed BandicootPerameles nasuta, Common Wombat Vombatus ursinus, Greater Glider, Sugar Glider, Common Brushtail Possum, Eastern Grey Kangaroo Maeropus giganteus, Swamp Wallaby Wallabia bieolor and Red-necked Wallaby Macropus rujogriseus. The Parma Wallaby was recorded in Moist forest environments. Incidental sightings ofarboreal marsupials made during nocturnal bird surveys in parts ofEnfield, Doyles River, Bulga, Dingo and Knorrit State Forests (S. Debus, pers. comm.) involved the Common Brushtail Possum, Mountain Brushtail Possum, Greater Glider, Sugar Glider, Long-nosed Potoroo, Ringtail Possum Pseudoeheirus peregrinus, Yellow-bellied Glider Petaurus australis, Long-nosed Bandicoot and Koala Phaseolarctos cinereus. Forestry Commission ofNew South Wales Forest Resources Series No. 19 Fauna Survey, Wingham Management Area, -21- PortMacquarie Region Part 1. Mammals There have been a number ofreported sightings ofthe Platypus Ornithorhynchus anatinus within the Management Area and surrounding river catchments. Grant (1991) reports Platypus from the following areas: Upsalls Creek in Kerewong State Forest, Mount Boss State Forest, Tea Kettle Creek near the Ellenborough River (Hastings River Catchment), Rowleys River in Bulga State Forest and adjacent se~i-cleared grazing land, within Knorrit State Forest and also in deep pools in adjacent semi-cleared grazing land, and Little Manning River in Woko National Park (Manning River Catchment). Sightings have also been recorded for Bulga Creek (near Elands Road) and generally in the Doyles River (1. Simmons, pers. comm.), and in the Ellenborough River upstream ofthe Falls to the Pole Dump Road crossing (A. Unicomb, pers. comm.). (b) Opportunistic sightings A substantial amount ofinfonnation was accumulated from incidental sightings made during surveys for mammal and other faunal groups. Echidnas Tachyglossus aculeatus were observed on Padmans Road and Knodingbul Road, and Spotted-tail Quolls on Dingo Tops Road and at the Dingo Tops picnic area. An Eastern Grey Kangaroo was recorded near plot MUL5 and Eastern Wallaroos Macropus robustus on the Rocks Creek Fire Trail and near the intersection ofMurrays Road and Big Murrays Road. There were numerous sightings ofthe Red-necked Wallaby, Swamp Wallaby, Panna Wallaby and Red-necked Pademelon Thylogale thetis throughout the Management Area. There was an unconfinned sighting ofa Long-nosed Potoroo in long blady grass between plots DURS and DUH6. The Long-nosed Bandicoot was commonly seen or heard calling during night spot-lighting, and there were seven recorded sightings ofthe Northern Brown Bandicoot Isodon macourus. Greater Gliders, Brushtail and Ringtail Possums were observed whilst driving at night, and Yellow-bellied Gliders were heard calling at Boot Hill Camp and Maxwell's Flat There were incidental sightings ofthe Sugar Glider, Mountain Brushtail Possum and Koala, and a Dingo was heard calling in the vicinity of plot DLL3 (G. Oancy, pers. comm.) and plot MUL5 (R. Williams, pers. comm.). A number offeral cats were observed during the course ofthe sUIveys. A Platypus was observed entering a burrow adjacent to a pool in Little Run Creek at the intersection ofCreek Road and Compartment 86 Forest Road (G. Oancy,pers. comm.). (c) Roadsurvey Seven arboreal mammal species were detected during vehicle spotlighting transects: the Greater Glider, the Common Brushtail Possum, the Mountain Brushtail Possum, the Common Ringtail Possum, the Koala, the Sugar Glider, and the Yellow-bellied Glider. The Greater Glider was by far the most common observation (285 sightings), representing 77% ofanimals recorded. Common Brushtail, Ringtail and Mountain Brushtail Possums were less abundant (28, 24 and 20 sightings respectively), and there were five records ofYellow-bellied Gliders calling in moist gullies adjacent to road transects. There were seven sightings ofKoala and one ofa Sugar Glider. A total of 105 km of road was traversed (21 x 5 km transects) with an overall average rate of3.5 animals per kilometre. The results ofthe survey are summarised in Table 6 and road transect details are provided in Appendix 3. Road transect data such as this provide a general index ofdistribution and abundance only, and are not suitable for direct estimates of species richness and population densities. Plot-based survey results should be referred to for quantitative comparisons ofspecies richness and abundance. Forest Resources Series No. 19 Forestry Commission ofNew South Wales ------ Fauna Survey, Wingham Management Area. Port Macquarie Region Part 1. Mammals -22- Table 6. Arboreal mammal species recorded during road transect sUlvey. Arboreal Marsupial Species - Numbers ofIndividuals Transect Greater Common Common Mountain Koala YeIlow- Sugar Total Glider Brushtail Ringtail Brushtail bellied Glider Species Possum Possum Possum Glider # 1 59 1 2 42 1 3 3 3 46 1 1 3 4 18 2 2 6 6 2 2 7 3 7 6 3 8 10 2 6 2 1 1 6 9 14 5 1 1 4 10 9 2 2 11 19 2 1 3 14 13 9 2 15 1 1 2 16 9 1 1 3 17 6 1 18 2 1 1 3 19 2 5 1 2 1 1 6 21 2 1 22 10 1 2 2 4 23 8 1 24 2 5 2 25 5 4 2 TOTAL 285 28 24 20 7 6 1 7 (Full details of road transect locations and survey results are provided in Appendix 3.) (d) Predator scat analysis Inspection ofthe 24 predator seats and hair samples collected opportunistically during the mammal survey suggested that 11 were from dogs or Dingo, three from QuoIls, and ten from unidentified sources. Analysis ofthe material contained in the seats revealed the likely presence ofmaterial from 13 mammal species: the Swamp Wallaby, Red-necked Pademelon, Fawn-footed Melomys Melomys cervinipes, Brown Antechinus, Spotted-tailed QuoIl, Bush Rat Rattusjuscipes, Common Brushtail Possum, domestic Cattle Bos taurus, a species of Bandicoot, Common Ringtail Possum, Sugar Glider or Squirrel GliderPetaurus noifolcensis, Swamp Rat Rattus lutreolus, and Rabbit Oryctolagus cuniculus (see Table 7). Forestry Commission ofNew South Wales Forest Resources Series No. 19 61 Table 7. Analysis of predator scats and hair samples. .~ .... Scat Location Probable ~annnalSpeciesIdentified* No. Source DefInite Probable Possible rCi2 ~. 1 NLH2 ? Swamp Wallaby ~ .... 2 DLH4 Dog Red-necked Pademelon 10 3 Dingo Tops Forest Parlc ? Melomys sp. Antechinus sp. Fawn-footed Melomys Brown Antechinus 4 Koala Rd (west) ? Spotted-tailed QuoIl 5a MLL5 Spotted-tailed QuoIl? Rattussp. Bush rat 5b Dog? Swamp Wallaby 6 Potoroo Rd adjacent to MLL5 hair only Brushtail Possum 7 Potoroo Rd adjacent to MLL5 Dog Brushtail Possum, Bandicoot sp. 8 Potoroo Rd adjacent to MLL5 Dog? Rattussp. Bush Rat 9 Bridge near MUH1 Dog Cow 10 NLH2 Spotted-tailed QuoIl Rattussp. Bush Rat lla Not recorded Dog Swamp Wallaby ~ llb Not recorded Dog Brushtail Possum I 12 Potoroo Rd adjacent to MLL5 Dog Ringtail Possum 13 Eagle Hawk Trail near NillI1 ? Rattussp. Bush Rat 14a Sonny's Rd adjacent to MLHS Dog Ringtail Possum 14b Sonny's Rd adjacent to MLHS ? Sugar/Squirrel Glider 15 Knodingbul Rd. Dog Rattussp. Swamp Rat '!1 61 adjacent to NLH4 ~ a'§ ~ po ~ 16 DULl ? Ringtail Possum 17 DLL5 Dog ~Ci2 Q Red-necked Pademelon ~~ 18 Knodingbul Rd. Hair only Red-necked Pademelon .g (l) lll~ ;. adjacent to RLH3 lI> ai' =e g' 19 DLH6 ? Bandicoot sp., Rabbit :;I:l er g, 20 NillI2 J8t ? Ringtail Possum g'a ~ 21 NillI2 Spotted-tailed QuoIl Ringtail Possum :E Ci2 if .... J',l • (l) ~ *There are three levels of certainty for the identifIcation of mammal species in the scats. Accuracy is influenced by the amount of, or quality of, the hairs in the ~~ sample, and the level of difficulty in separating some related species. IdentifIcations perfonned by Barbara Triggs. ~.... t ~t Fauna Survey, Wingham Management Area, Port Macquarie Region Part 1. Mammals -24- 2. Plot-based Survey (a) Large arboreal marsupials Seven arboreal marsupial species were detected during spotlighting transects: the Greater Glider, the Common Brushtail Possum, the Mountain Brushtail Possum, the Common Ringtail Possum, the Koala, the Sugar Glider, and the Yellow-bellied Glider. All ofthese animals were detected on one or more ofthe 45 study plots, however the majority ofYellow-bellied Gliders were detected from calls emanating from adjacent moist gullies. When only those animals observed on plots are considered, an average (median) oftwo species per plot was recorded. Overall, no animals were recorded on seven plots, one species on fourteen plots, two species on 15 plots, three species on six plots, and four species on three plots (DLLl, DUH4 and NLH2). The distribution ofspecies richness across the study plots is shown in Table 8. It is important to note that these numbers do not represent the total species richness ofplots, but a relative index (achieved by equivalent search effort at each) by which comparisons can be made. Relative species richness ofall large arboreal marsupials on study plots differing in Broad Forest Type, Management History and'ATIi'fiifre*: Broad Forest Types Rainforest Moist forest Dry forest New England History Logged Logged Unlogged Logged Unlogged Logged Unlogged Altitude Low High Low High Low High Low High Low High High High 0 1 0 3 3 4 1 1 0 4 1 ~ 3 ~ 3 0 1 2 2 2 2 1 4 2 3 c..> - ;.::::l - 0 1 0 2 2 2 1 1 1 1 2 fr 2 1 0 2 2 2 2 2 3 1 1 ~ - Mean - 1.5 0.5 1.0 2.3 2.3 2.5 1.5 1.3 2.0 2.0 1.8 Mean 1.2 0.8 2.3 2.0 1.6 2.0 1.8 * Values represent the number ofspecies observed on a transect 500 ID long and 40 ID wide (20 ID each side of transect line) over two periods ofobservation. Replicate sites were not available within low-altitude Rainforest. The influence ofBroad Forest Type, Management History and Altitude on species richness was investigated by the use ofAnalysis ofVariance (ANOVA) procedures. The results suggest that overall, relative species richness oflarge arboreal marsupials is not influenced by Broad Forest Type (F=O.346 d.f.=3,39 P=0.792), Management History (F=1.243 d.f.=1,39 P=0.272) or Altitude (F=0.255 dJ.=1,39 P=0.616). In order to better understand the nature ofthe observed variation, the data were analysed without Altitude as a source ofvariance. This increases the effective sample size and potentially allows for clearer patterns to emerge. When these strata (combinations ofBroad Forest Type and Management History) are considered (One-way ANOVA) there is no difference between strata (F=1.774 d.f.=6,38 P=O.131). The Forestry Commission of New South Wales Forest Resources Series No. 19 Fauna Survey, Wingham Management Area, -25- PortMacquarie Region Part 1. Manunals assumptions behind the test are met (variances are not significantly different - Bartlett-Box Test, F=1.22 P=0.292), however a non-parametric procedure was used for verification. Similar results were achieved with mean ranks shown as not significantly different (Kruskal-Wallis One-way ANOVA, X2:11.3 n=45 P=0.080). The relative species richness ofstudy plots is shown inTable 9. Table 9. Relative species richness oflarge arboreal marsupials on study plots differing in Broad Forest Type and Management History. Broad Forest Strata Logged Logged Unlogged Unlogged Logged Logged Unlogged Moist Rainforest Dry New New Dry Moist England England Mean * 0.8 1.2 1.6 1.8 2.0 2.0 2.3 Mean Rank # 12.4 18.2 21.8 24.4 25.5 27.3 31.6 * Lines indicate group means not significantly different at the 0.05 level (Multiple Range Test - Scheffe's Procedure). # Kruskal-Wallis One-way Analysis ofVariance. On average, the highest species richness was recorded in unlogged Moist forest, and the lo.west in logged Moist forest. Although these mean values are not significantly different, it is apparent that in general terms logged Moist forest supports considerably lowernumbers ofspecies ofarboreal marsupials than unlogged Moist forest The converse situation exists for Dry forest types, with logged plots having (on average) slightly more species than unlogged plots. The difference between logged and unlogged New England types is negligible. Logged Rainforest supports low numbers oflarge arboreal marsupial species. These results do not take into account the response ofindividUal species to characteristics ofthe habitat. The following analyses address this issue. Forest Resources Series No. 19 Forestry Commission ofNew South Wales Fauna Survey, Wingham Management Area, Port Macquarie Region Part 1. Mammals -26- (i) Population density ofGreater Gliders A total of 83 sightings ofGreater Gliders were made during spotlighting along transects, 53 recorded within 20 metres ofthe transect and 30 outside this range. The distribution ofthis species across the range ofplots was patchy with 24 plots recording no animals. The average (mean) number of individuals observed on each plot (over two visits) within 20 m ofthe transect was used to generate the relative population density (see Table lO). These data represent a population density "index" by which comparisons can be made. As these indeces also represent the number ofanimals observed in 2 hectares ofhabitat (500 m x 40 m), reliable estimates ofnumbers ofanimals per hectare can be obtained by halving the mean values shown. Plots NUH2 and NUHS recorded the highest number of individuals, with six and nine, and two and eight animals observed respectively on the two transect walks. On average therefore, unlogged New England forest supported 2.05 Greater Gliders per hectare (4.1/2). Table 10. Relative population density ofGreater Gliders on study plots differing in Broad Forest Type, Management History and Altitude*. Broad Forest Types Rainforest Moist forest Dry forest New England History Logged Logged Unlogged Logged Unlogged Logged Unlogged Altitude Low High Low High Low High Low High Low High High High 00 0.0 Q) 0.0 0.0 1.5 0.5 2.5 0.5 0.0 0.0 0.0 2.5 2.0 tU - 0.5 0.0 0.0 2.5 3.5 0.0 1.5 0.0 2.5 2.0 7.5 .....C,) - 0.0 0.0 0.0 1.0 0.0 0.0 0.0 0.0 0.0 0.0 5.0 "l:lQ) ~ - 0.0 0.5 0.0 0.0 1.5 0.0 2.0 0.0 1.5 2.5 2.0 Mean - 0.1 0.1 0.4 1.0 1.9 0.1 0.9 0.0 1.0 1.8 4.1 Mean 0.1 0.3 1.4 0.5 0.5 1.8 4.1 * Values represent the mean number ofanimals observed on a transect 500 m long and 40 m wide (20 m each side oftransect line) over two periods ofobservation. Replicate sites were not available within low altitude Rainforest. The influence ofBroad Forest Type, Management History and Altitude on population density was investigated by the use ofANOYA procedures. The results suggest that overall, relative population density ofGreater Gliders is influenced by Broad Forest Type (F=5.672 d.f.=3,39 P=0.OOO3) and Management History (F=6.474 d.f.=1,39 P=0.015), but not by Altitude (F=2.790 d.f.=1,39 P=0.103). In order to better understand the nature ofthe observed variation, the data were analysed without Altitude as a source ofvariance. This increases the effective sample size and potentially allows for clearer patterns to emerge. When these strata (combinations ofBroad Forest Type and Management History) are considered (One-way ANOYA) there is a significant difference between strata (F=6.96 d.f.=6,38 P Forestry Commission ofNew South Wales Forest Resources Series No. 19 Fauna Survey, Wingham Management Area, -27- PortMacquarie Region Part 1. Manunals Table 11. Relative population density ofGreater Gliders on study plots differing in Broad Forest Type and Management History. Broad Forest Strata Logged Logged Unlogged Logged Unlogged Logged Unlogged Rainforest Moist Dry Dry Moist New New England England Mean * 0.1 0.3 0.5 0.5 1.4 1.8 4.1 Mean Rank # 15.3 16.6 18.3 19.5 29.4 32.0 40.0 * Lines indicate group means not significantly different at the 0.05 level (Multiple Range Test - Scheffe's Procedure). # Kruskal-Wallis One-way Analysis ofVariance. On average, the highest population density recorded was in unlogged New England forest, and this was significantly higher than all other strata. Logging significantly reduces the population density of Greater Gliders in this Forest Type, but not for Dry forest Although not statistically significant, logged Moist forests have, on average, lowerpopulation densities than unlogged Moist forests. Logged Rainforest supports low numbers ofGreater Gliders. Forest Resources Series No. 19 Forestry Commission of New South Wales ------ Fauna Survey, Wingham Management Area, Port Macquarie Region Part 1. Mammals -28- (ii) Population density ojComrnon Ringtail Possums A total of21 sightings ofCommon Ringtail Possums were made during spotlighting along transects, 15 recorded within 20 metres ofthe transect and six outside this range. The distribution ofthis species across the range ofplots was patchy with 37 plots recording no animals. The average (mean) number ofindividuals observed on each plot (over two visits) within 20 m ofthe transect was used to generate the relative population density (see Table 12). Plot RLH3 recorded the highest number ofindividuals, with three and two animals observed respectively on the two transect walks. Table 12. Relative population density ofCommon Ringtail Possums on study plots differing in Broad Forest Type, Management History and Altitude*. Broad Forest Types Rainforest Moist forest Dry forest New England History Logged Logged Unlogged Logged Unlogged Logged Unlogged Altitude Low High Low High Low High Low High Low High High High fI:l Q) 0.0 1.5 0.0 0.0 0.0 0.0 0.0 0.0 0.0 0.0 0.0 0.0 ii u - 2.5 0.0 0.0 0.0 0.5 0.0 0.0 0.0 0.0 0.5 0.0 :.::::l - 0.0 0.0 0.0 0.5 0.0 0.0 0.0 0.0 0.0 0.0 0.0 ~ - 1.0 0.0 0.0 0.5 0.0 0.0 0.5 0.0 0.0 0.0 0.0 Mean - 1.3 0.0 0.0 0.3 0.1 0.0 0.1 0.0 0.0 0.1 0.0 Mean 1.0 0.0 0.2 0.1 0.0 0.1 0.0 * Values represent the mean number ofanimals observed on a transect 500 m long and 40 m wide (20 m each side oftransect line) over two periods ofobservation. Replicate sites were not available within low altitude Rainforest. The influence ofBroad Forest Type, Management History and Altitude on the population density of Ringtail Possums was investigated by the use ofAnalysis ofVariance (ANOVA) procedures. The results suggest that overall, relative population density is influenced by Broad Forest Type (F=8.268 d.f.=3,39 P When these strata (combinations ofBroad Forest Type and Management History) are considered (One-way ANOVA) there is a significant difference between strata (F=4.861 d.f.=6,39 P Forestry Commission ofNew South Wales Forest Resources Series No. 19 Fauna Survey, Wingham Management Area, -29- PortMacquarie Region Part 1. Manunals Table 13. Relative population density ofCommon Ringtail Possums on study plots differing in Broad Forest Type and Management History. Broad Forest Strata Unlogged Unlogged Logged Logged Logged Unlogged Logged New Dry Moist Dry New Moist Rainforest England England Mean * 0.0 0.0 0.0 0.1 0.1 0.2 1.0 -- Mean Rank # 19.0 19.0 19.0 21.6 24.3 26.9 34.0 * Lines indicate group means not significantly different at the 0.05 level (Multiple Range Test - Scheffe's Procedure). # Kruskal-Wallis One-way Analysis ofVariance. On average, the highest population density was recorded in logged Rainforest, and this was significantly higher than all other strata. There was no difference between population densities recorded for all other Forest Types. Forest Resources Series No. 19 Forestry Commission ofNew South Wales Fauna Survey, Wingham Management Area, PortMacquarie Region Part 1. Mammals -30- (iii) Population density ofCommon Brushtail Possums A total of36 sightings ofCommon Brushtail Possums were made during spotlighting along transects, 29 recorded within 20 metres ofthe transect and seven outside this range. The distribution ofthis species across the range ofplots was patchy with 30 plots recording no animals. The average number ofindividuals observed on each plot (over two visits) within 20 m ofthe transect was used to generate the relative population density (see Table 14). Plot MUH1 recorded the highest number of individuals, with four and two animals observed on the two transect walks. Table 14. Relative population density ofCommon Brushtail Possums on study plots differing in Broad Forest Type, Management History and Altitude*. Broad Forest Types Rainforest Moist forest Dry forest New England History Logged Logged Unlogged Logged Unlogged Logged Unlogged Altitude Low High Low High Low High Low High Low High High High Mean 0.0 0.0 0.6 0.6 0.6 0.1 0.1 * Values represent the mean number ofanimals observed on a transect 500 m long and 40 m wide (20 m each side oftransect line) over two periods ofobservation. Replicate sites were not available within low altitude Rainforest. The influence ofBroad Forest Type, Management History and Altitude on population density was investigated by the use ofANOVA procedures. The results suggest that overall, relative population density ofCommon Brushtail Possums is not influenced by Broad Forest Type (F=1.148 d.f.=3,39 P=0.342), Management History (F=1.090 d.f.=1,39 P=0.303), or by Altitude (F=O.697 d.f.=1,39 P=00409). In order to better understand the nature ofthe observed variation, the data were analysed without Altitude as a source ofvariance. This increases the effective sample size and potentially allows for clearer patterns to emerge. When these strata (combinations of Broad Forest Type and Management History) are considered (One-way ANOVA) there is no significant difference between strata (F=1.53 d.f.=6,38 P=O.194). The assumptions behind the test are not met (variances are significantly different - Bartlett-Box Test, F=2046 P=O.044), suggesting that a non-parametric procedure may be more informative. Results of the Kruskal-Wallis One-way ANOVA show mean ranks to be just significantly different (x2::12.9 n=45 P=O.045). The relative population density ofCommon Brushtail Possums on study plots is shown in Table 15. Forestry Commission ofNew South Wales Forest Resources Series No. 19 Fauna Survey, Wingham Management Area, -31- Port Macquari~ Region Part 1. Mammals Table IS. Relative population density ofCommon Brushtail Possums on study plots differing in Broad Forest Type and Management History. Broad Forest Strata Logged Logged Logged Unlogged Unlogged Unlogged Logged Moist Rainforest New New Moist Dry Dry England England Mean * 0.0 0.0 0.1 0.1 0.6 0.6 0.6 Mean Rank # 15.5 15.5 20.1 20.1 24.6 29.1 30.4 * Lines indicate group means not significantly different at the 0.05 level (Multiple Range Test - Scheffe's Procedure). # Kruskal-Wallis One-way Analysis ofVariance. On average, the highest population density recorded was in logged and unlogged Dry forests, however the highest single recorded density was on an unlogged Moist forest plot, MUHl. Logging reduces the population density ofCommon Brushtail Possums in Moist forest, but not for other Broad Forest Types. New England forest supports low numbers ofCommon Brushtail Possums, while no animals were recorded from either Rainforest orlogged Moist forest. (iv) Distribution ofMountain Brushtail Possums Mountain Brushtail Possums were seen on six plots during night transect surveys. Possums were recorded on plots in logged Rainforest (RLH5, one animal), unlogged New England forest (NUH2, one animal), logged Moist forest (MLL5, one animal), unlogged Dry forest (DUH4, one animal), and logged Dry forest (DLL1, one animal, DLU, two animals). Numbers ofanimals seen were insufficient to comment quantitatively on habitat preferences and logging impacts, however animals were recorded in all Broad Forest Types and both logged and unlogged forests. (v) Distribution ofKoalas Koalas were recorded from four plots during night transect surveys. Animals were observed within unlogged Dry forest (DUH4, one animal), unlogged Moist forest (MUL2, MUL5, one animal each), and logged New England forest (NLH2, one animal). Numbers ofanimals recorded were insufficient to comment quantitatively on habitat preferences and logging impacts, however the low number of sightings suggests that the Koala is an uncommon species in this Management Area. These results and those from the vehicle-based survey are considered more fully in the Discussion section. (vi) Distribution ofYellow-bellied Gliders Yellow-bellied Gliders were recorded from the genera1.locality of ten plots during night transect surveys, and one animal observed within the boundaries ofan unlogged New England forest plot (NUH2). Animals were heard calling generally in moister vegetation communities in gullies and along creeklines within logged Dry forest (DLH3, DLH4), unlogged Dry forest (DUH4, DUH6), logged Moist forest (MLH3), unlogged Moist forest (MUH1, MUH5, MUL7), logged New England forest (NLH2), unlogged New England forest (NUH2), and logged Rainforest (RLH3). Forest Resources Series No. 19 Forestry Commission ofNew South Wales Fauna Survey, Wingham Management Area, Port Macquarie Region Part 1. Mammals -32- Numbers ofanimals recorded were insufficient to comment quantitatively on habitat preferences and logging impacts, however animals were recorded in all Broad Forest Types, both logged and unlogged. Calls from Yellow-bellied Gliders were often elicited in response to the playing ofrecorded owl calls and observations suggested that moister gullies (within all ForestTypes) were the favoured habitat ofthis species. (vii) Distribution ofSugar Gliders Sugar Gliders were recorded from ten plots during night transect surveys, with two records from direct observation and nine from animals calling. Animals were found in logged Dry forest (DLLl [call], DLL3 [obs.], DLL5 [call], unlogged Dry forest (DUL7 [call], DUH6 [call], logged Moist forest (MLH3 [call], MLH4 [call]), unlogged Moist forest (MUHS [call], MUH7 [call]), and logged New England forest (NLH2 [call and obs.]). Numbers ofanimals seen were insufficient to comment quantitatively on habitat preferences and logging impacts, however animals were recorded in all Broad Forest Types except Rainforest, and both logged and unlogged Dry and Moist forests, and logged New England forest. (b) Small arboreal mammals A total of 19 individuals from five mammal species were caught in tree-mounted Elliot traps. Individual species were Brown Antechinus (ten individuals), Bush Rat (one individual), Fawn-footed Melomys (six individuals), Common Brushtail Possum (one juvenile), and Feathertail Glider Acrobates pygmaeus (one individual). Overall capture rates were extremely low (0.5%) given the substantial trapping effort expended (4,500 trap nights). The distribution ofthe Brown Antechinus across the range ofplots was patchy with 39 plots recording no animals. The number ofindividuals trapped on each plot (over four nights) was used to generate the relative population density (see Table 16). All individuals trapped were females (as expected for this time ofyear), with most having pouched young or evidence of approaching litters. Table 16. Relative population density ofthe Brown Antechinus on study plots differing in Broad Forest Type, Management History and Altitude*. Broad Forest Types Rainforest Moist forest Dry forest New England History Logged Logged Unlogged Logged Unlogged Logged Unlogged Altitude Low High Low High Low High Low High Low High High High r'-l Q) 1 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 ~ ....t,) - 0 0 0 0 1 0 0 0 0 0 0 fr - 1 5 0 1 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 ~ - 0 0 0 0 1 0 0 0 0 0 0 Mean - 0.3 1.3 0 0.3 0.5 0 0 0 0 0 0 Mean 0.4 0.6 0.4 0.0 0.0 0.0 0.0 * Values represent the total number ofanimals captured using tree-mounted Elliot traps (lOO trap nights at each location). Replicate sites were not available within low-altitude Rainforest. Forestry Commission ofNew South Wales Forest Resources Series No. 19 Fauna Survey, Wingham Management Area, -33- Port Macquarie Region Part 1. Mammals The Brown Antechinus was only recorded from six plots during surveys. Animals were trapped in logged Rainforest (RLH4, one animal, RLLl, one animal), logged Moist forest (MLL5, five animals), unlogged Moist forest (MUH2, one animal, MUH7, one animal, MUL5, one animal). The Bush Rat was trapped only once in logged Moist forest (MLL5). This species is not normally trapped on trees except where there is a dense vegetation understorey adjacent to the trap site (as was the case on this plot). Six Fawn-footed Melomys were trapped in logged Rainforest (RLHl, RLH4, RLH5), logged Moist forest (MLH3, MLH6) and unlogged Moist forest (MUL5). One female Feathertail Glider (with young) was trapped in logged Rainforest (RLLl). Numbers ofanimals seen ofall small mammal species were insufficient to comment quantitatively on habitat preferences and logging impacts, however all individuals were trapped in Rainforest and Moist forest, both logged and unlogged. (c) Small terrestrial mammals Efforts to locate small terrestrial mammals were concentrated on species considered to be ofhigh conservation significance. This involved the use ofpitfall traps as part ofthe "plot-based" survey, and specialized survey techniques (see Methodology section 2c). (i) Plot-based survey One female Brown Antechinus (with pouched young) was captured using plot-based pitfall traps. This animal was trapped inlogged Moist forest (MLL6), a habitat (but not plot) where this species had been caught by other techniques. No other mammal species were caught using this technique. (ii) Specialized survey A number oflocations were investigated primarily to detect the Hastings River Mouse Pseudomys oralis, and secondarily to survey unique habitats not covered in the "plot-based" survey. 1. Unlogged Rainforest Patch - Study Site XRFl - no small mammals were captured in 100 trap nights at this site. 2. Unlogged Rainforest Patch - Study Site XRF2 - one female Brown Antechinus (with pouched young) was caught in 100 trap night at this site. 3. Rock OuterQP Patch - Study Site XRKl - three Bush Rats (adult males) and one Brown Antechinus (adult female) were caught in 100 trap nights at this site. 4. Rock Outcrop Patch - Study Site XRK2 - one Bush Rat (adult female) was caught in 100 trap nights at this site. 5. Site SS1 - five Bush Rats (two adult males, three adult females) and three Brown Antechinus (females with pouched young) were caught in 100 trap nights at this site. 6. Site SS2 - one Bush Rat (adult female) was caught in 100 trap nights at this site. 7. Site SS3 - two Bush Rats (adult males) were caught in 100 trap nights at this site. Forest Resources Series No. 19 Forestry Commission ofNew South Wales ,------ Fauna Survey, Wingham Management Area, Port Macquarie Region Part 1. Mammals -34- 8. Site SS4 - two Bush Rats (adult females) and one Brown Antechinus (female with pouched young) were caught in 75 trap nights at this site. 9. Site SS5 - one Brown Antechinus (female with pouched young) was caught in 75 trap nights at this site. 10. Site SS6 - three Bush Rats (two adult females, one adult male) and two House Mice Mus musculus were caught in 50 trap nights at this site. (d) Large terrestrial mammals The presence on, or recent use of, the study plots by large terrestrial mammals was detected firstly through direct observation, secondly by systematic searches for evidence (tracks, diggings, burrows and scats), and thirdly by the use ofcage traps. (i) Plot-based survey Sixteen species ofmammals were observed or detected on study plots in this manner, ofwhich ten were native "large terrestrial" species, and one was the feral cat Felis cattus. Eight mammal species were caught in cage traps: Common Brushtail Possum (17), Mountain Brushtail Possum (1), Northern Brown Bandicoot (10), Long-nosed Bandicoot (4), Long-nosed Potoroo (1), Parma Wallaby (1), Spotted-tailed Quoll (2), and Feral Cat (1). Echidna diggings were present on one plot in logged Dry forest (DLIA) and Koala droppings were present on plots in logged Dry forest (DLL3, DLL5), unlogged Dry forest (DULl), unlogged Moist forest (MUL2), and unlogged New England forest (NUH1). The Eastern Grey Kangaroo, Parma Wallaby, Red-necked Wallaby, Red-necked Pademelon and Swamp Wallaby were observed ordetected from droppings. The Brown Antechinus and a species ofRattus (probablyjuscipes) were identified from droppings on plots in logged Rainforest. The data are presented in Table 17 in the form ofevidence or captures across categories based on Broad Forest Type and Management History. This enables a qualitative assessment ofhabitat usage for some species. Bandicoot diggings were common throughout the study area, but the two species were difficult to separate by this means. The Northern Brown Bandicoot was trapped on plots in unlogged Moist forest (MUH5), logged (DLL5) and unlogged Dry forest (DUH4, DUL3, DUL7), and logged New England forest (NLH2, NLH3, NLH6). The Long-nosed Bandicoot was trapped on plots in logged Rainforest (RLH3), logged Moist forest (MLH5), unlogged Dry forest (DUH4), and logged New England forest (NLH2). The Northern Brown Bandicoot would appear to show a preference for drier, grassy woodlands; and while the Long-nosed Bandicoot shows a preference for Moist forest environments, there is obviously considerable overlap in habitat requirements. Evidence ofthe Red-necked Wallaby was found on plots across all Broad Forest Types and Management treatments, and this species was observed to be common in grassy/woodland areas. The Swamp Wallaby and Red-necked Pademelon were similarly common across the Management Area, and showed a preference for the moister Forest Types, utilising moist gullies in drier forest areas. The Parma Wallaby was observed on numerous occasions across the study area, but showed a preference for moister habitats. Forestry Commission ofNew South Wales Forest Resources Series No. 19 Fauna Survey, Wingham Management Area, -35- PortMacquarie Region Part 1. Mammals Table 17. Plot-based records oflarge terrestrial mammals. Broad Forest Strata Scientific Name Common Name Rainforest Moist Dry New forest forest England L L U L U L U Taehyglossus aeuleatus Echidna 10 Dasyurus maeulatus Spotted-tailed QuoIl 10 C2 Anteehinus stuartii Brown Marsupial Mouse 20 Isoodon maerourus Northern Brown Bandicoot ** */Cl */C2 */C3 */C3 * Perameles nasuta Long-nosed Bandicoot 20/Cl 75/Cl 65 50 lOO/Cl 50/Cl 50 Phaseolaretos einereus Koala 10 25 10 25 Triehosurus eaninus Mountain Brushtail Possum */Cl * Cl * Triehosurus vulpeeula Common Brushtail Possum 20 10 C3 C2 25/C4 Potorous tridaetylus Long-nosed Potoroo Cl Maero[Jus giganteus Eastern Grey Kangaroo 12 12 Maeropus parma Panna Wallaby 6O/Cl 90 40 25 40 10 10 Maeropus rufogriseus Red-necked Wallaby 20 10 50 65 90 10 10 Thylogale thetis Red-necked Pademelon 80 50 40 40 90 10 Wallabia hieolor Swamp Wallaby 100 100 75 75 90 40 50 Rattusfuseipes Southern Bush Rat 40 Felis eatus Feral Cat Cl Management History: L- Logged U- Unlogged C# - number ofcage trap captures * Unable to confinn species (ie. Bandicoots and Brushtail Possums) Data represent percentage ofplots within a particular Broad Forest Type and Management History where evidence occurred (to nearest 5%), and numbers of individuals caught in cage traps where applicable. Forest Resources Series No. 19 Forestry Commission ofNew South Wales Fauna Survey, Wingham Management Area, Port Macquarie Region Part 1. Mammals -36- (ii) Specialized survey The Hastings River Mouse was not trapped at any ofthe specialized survey locations. Sites SS1, SS2 and SS3 had been chosen especially because ofknown habitat preferences ofthe species (see King 1984), but habitats were also suitable at some other trapping locations. Red-necked Pademelons, Swamp Wallabies and Parma Wallabies were detected from droppings at a number ofsites, as were species ofBmshtail Possum and Bandicoot. 1. Unlogged Rainforest Patch - Study Site XR.Fl - no mammals were trapped in cage traps at this site. There was evidence ofbandicoots (diggings), Bmshtail Possums (droppings) and Red-necked Pademelons (droppings). 2. Unlogged Rainforest Patch - Study Site XR.F2 - no mammals were trapped in cage traps at this site. There was evidence ofbandicoots (diggings), Swamp Wallabies (droppings) and Panna Wallabies (droppings). 3. Rock Qutcrcw Patch - Study Site XRKl - no mammals were trapped in cage traps at this site. There was evidence ofbandicoots (diggings), Swamp Wallabies (droppings) and Panna Wallabies (droppings). 4. Rock Qutcrcw Patch - Study Site XRK2 - no mammals were trapped in cage traps at this site. There was evidence ofSwamp Wallabies (droppings). 5. Sites SS 1. SS2 & SS3 - no surveys for large terrestrial mammals were conducted at these sites (Hastings River Mouse sites only). 6. Site SS4 - no mammals were trapped in cage traps at this site. There was evidence of bandicoots (diggings) and Swamp Wallabies (droppings). 7. Site SS5 - no mammals were trapped in cage traps at this site. There was little evidence ofmammal usage ofthis site. 8. Site SS6 - no mammals were trapped in cage traps at this site. There was evidence of Red-necked Pademelons (droppings). Forestry Commission ofNew South Wales Forest Resources Series No. 19 Fauna Survey, Wingham Management Area, -37- Port Macquarie Region Part 1. Mammals DISCUSSION The primary objective ofthis fauna sUlvey was to provide data for effective, scientifically-based forest management. A survey strategy was utilised which not only provides an inventory ofspecies, but also produces a basis for long-tenn monitoring of species and communities. The results obtained pennit a I description ofthe distribution and abundance of species within the Management Area, an indication of their habitat utilisation, and a quantitative assessment oftheir responses to forest management prac- tices. 1. Background Information A review ofa number oflimited surveys ofthe region indicate that it has a rich mammal fauna with 35 native and nine introduced mammal species recorded. None ofthese studies sought to establish relative abundance ofspecies inhabitats, but primarily contributed to the production of"checklists". These data however provide a useful background against which to assess the mammalian fauna ofthe Wingham Management Area. Ofthe native mammal fauna listed for the region, 26 species (74%) were recorded in this survey. Species listed but not detected were: Brush-tailed Phascogale, Yellow-footed Antechinus, Dusky Antechinus, Common Planigale, Squirrel Glider, Eastern Pygmy Possum, Red-legged Pademelon, New Holland Mouse and Hastings River Mouse. These species are discussed in the relevant sections below. Ofthe nine introduced mammal species recorded in the region, six were detected in this survey. 2. Large Arboreal Marsupials From the results ofthe road sUlveys and opportunistic sightings, a number ofspecies are considered to be common and widespread in the Management Area. These are the Greater Glider, Common Brushtail Possum, Common Ringtail Possum, and Mountain Brushtail Possum. Less common species are the Koala, Yellow-bellied Glider and Sugar Glider. All species that could be expected in the Area were recorded in this study. The Squirrel Glider Petaurus norjolcensis has been reported from Werrikimbe National Park, and is probably at the limit ofits distribution in this area (Suckling, 1983). Itis currently considered as endangered in New South Wales (listed under Part 2 ''vulnerable and rare" National Paries and Wildlife Act (Interim) Schedule 12), primarily because ofloss ofhabitat in part ofits range through the clearing ofwoodland areas for agriculture. Itwas not recorded in this extensive survey, nor in other surveys in forests in the region (see Appendix 2). Given that the Squirrel Glider spends much of its foraging time in the upper canopy (Davey, 1984), it is difficult both to detect and differentiate from its close relative the Sugar Glider Petaurus breviceps. At this stage it is considered that this species is absent from the Management Area, however in future surveys for monitoring purposes it should be treated as a "possible" member ofthe forest fauna. The results ofthe plot-based analysis suggest that the number ofarboreal marsupial species is not significantly different on plots differing in Broad Forest Type, Altitude and Management History. General trends are apparent however, with the highest species richness recorded in unlogged Moist forest, and the lowest in logged Moist forest. Logged Dry forest supported, on average, more species than unlogged Dry forest, with the results for logged and unlogged New England forest being broadly ~ similar. Logged Rainforest supports low numbers ofarboreal marsupials. While these results suggest that patterns ofoverall species richness are broadly similar across the Management Area, close inspection ofthe data reveals that individual species are exhibiting Specific responses to habitat and tpast management practices. ForestResources Series No. 19 Forestry Commission ofNew South Wales Fauna Survey, Wingham Management Area, Port Macquarie Region Part 1. Mammals -38- (a) Greater Gliders Greater Gliders were recorded on 20 ofthe 21 road transects, with often large numbers being obseIVed (see Appendix 3). They were most common in New England forest and only absent from transect 15 through predominantly logged Moist forest. The results ofthe plot-based sUIVey suggest that New England Forest Types are the favoured habitat ofthis species, followed by Moist and then Dry Forest Types. Mean Glider densities of2.05, 0.70 and 0.25 animals per hectare respectively, were recorded on unlogged plots in these habitats. Rainforest supported the lowest population densities ofGreater Gliders due to the lack of a Eucalyptus resource (on average, 0.05 animals per hectare -logged plots). Populations were high on some individual plots (NUH2, NUHS), suggesting that high productivity sites can support large populations ofthis species. Plot NUH2 and NUH5 both lie within high site quality New England blackbutt Eucalyptus campanulata forest (Type 163a) with a wet sclerophyll understorey (Binns and Chapman, 1992). Plot NUH5 lies on a ridge with adjacent Rainforest patches, and a high diversity oftree species in the immediate vicinity. The structural complexity ofthe forest has previously been reported as an important determinant ofthe distribution and abundance ofthis species (Davey, 1984). Past logging practices have significantly reduced the population density ofGreater Gliders in New England forest, and substantially reduced their numbers in Moist forest. Mean Glider densities of0.90 and 0.15 animals perhectare respectively, were recorded on logged plots in these habitats. Animals were recorded however on all logged plots in New England forest, except NLH4. This plot lies in moderate site quality New England blackbutt forest (Type 163b), which was intensively logged between 1957 and 1967 with the silvicultural culling ofunmerchantable trees (see Table 5). Removal ofthe shelter resource, tree hollows, may be a major factor here, although Gliders were obseIVed on all the otherlogged plots that have been intensively logged (NLH2, NLH6). These two plots are in forest logged between 1983-4 and 1977-87 respectively, without silvicultural treatment. In addition, it is worth noting that the Powerful Owl Ninox strenua can locally decimate the populations ofthe Greater Glider (Kavanagh, 1988) therefore results from individual plots should be interpreted with some caution in this case. A reduction inthe availability oftree hollows for fauna is a well documented detrimental effect of intensive forestry activities (McIlroy, 1978; Tyndale-Biscoe and Calaby, 1975; Loyn et al., 1980; Calder et al., 1983; Lindenmayer et al., 1990). Results from road transects 1,2, and 3 however would indicate that large numbe'rs ofGreater Gliders do occur in logged New England forest (see Appendix 3). For example, a 5 km transect along Pablo Road in Enfield State Forest (Compartments 308-312) recorded 59 Greater Gliders in logged New England blackbutt forest Animals were also obseIVed using dead and partially dead eucalypts as den trees on one logged plot (NLH6) and three unlogged plots (NUHl, NUH2, NUHS). Relative population densitieS recorded on three ofthe four logged plots (NLH2, NLH3 and NLH6) were equal to or greater than that recorded on two unlogged plots in the same Broad Forest Type (see Table 10). These results would suggest that site quality is more important than Management History in determining population density ofGreater Gliders, and that the retention of"habitat" and unmerchantable trees in current and future operations will successfully maintain populations ofGreater Gliders in regenerating New England blackbutt forest Site quality and its effect on foliar nutrient levels has been proposed as a major determinant ofthe distribution and abundance ofarboreal marsupials in the eucalypt forests ofsouth eastern Australia (Braithwaite et al., 1983; Kavanagh and Lambert, 1990). Dry forest types are less favoured by Greater Gliders, particularly at lower altitudes where no animals were recorded on unlogged Dry forest plots. The only low Altitude logged plot where Gliders were recorded (DLLl) was in a regenerating forest dominated by tallowwood Eucalyptus microcorys and white mahogany E. acemenoides with a dry sclerophyll understorey, which was logged in 1957-1967 without silvicultural treatment. In logged high Altitude Dry forest, Gliders were recorded in the same Forest Type (plot DLH410gged 1977-87) and coastal blackbutt forest with a wet sc1erophyll understorey (plot DLH610gged 1957-67). These results support those in New England forest by suggesting that site quality is the most important determinant ofpopulation density for Greater Gliders in Dry forest, provided that management practices have not seriously depleted the shelter resource (tree hollows). Forestry Commission ofNew South Wales Forest Resources Series No. 19 Fauna Survey, Wingham Management Area, -39- Port Macquarie Region Part 1. Mammals The population density ofGreater Gliders in Moist forest environments is lower (but not significantly) inlogged forest compared with unlogged forest. The highest densities were found on unlogged plot MUH2 inMoist forest dominated by brush box Lophostemon confertus with a wet sclerophyll understorey. Variability within unlogged Moist forest however was high, with a floristically similar plot (MUH7) recording a lower relative population density (a mean of 0.75 animals per hectare compared with 1.75). A similar site in ~ forest (MLH3 -logged 1957-67 with silvicultural treatment) also recorded a relative population density of0.75 animals per ha. These results suggest that Moist forest environments within the Wingham Management Area are not the preferred habitat of Greater Gliders, and their population density within this Broad Forest Type is dependent on site specific factors rather than logging history. The Greater Glider has been recorded in every National Park and Nature Reserve in the region except Woko National Park. (see Appendix 2) and has a secure status in New South Wales. While intensive logging ofareas with high soil and foliar nutrient levels will have localised impacts on Glider populations, retention ofhollow-bearing trees and the proposed conservation strategy (fruyard Pty. Ltd., 1992) should ensure the continued survival ofpopulations throughout the Management Area. (b) Common Ringtail Possums This species was observed on eight ofthe 21 road transects (38%) indicating that it is widely distributed within the Management Area. Itwas recorded from five predator scats, but observations suggest that numbers are moderate within areas ofits preferred habitat. The results ofthe plot-based survey suggest that Rainforest is the favoured habitat ofthis species, followed by unlogged Moist and then logged Dry forest. The numbers ofanimals recorded in New England and Dry forest are too low to assess logging impacts, and no clear patterns are evident. InMoist forest the species was only recorded on unlogged plots (MUL5, MUL7 and MUH2). Ofthe eight logged plots, six were logged between 1957 and 1967, one between 1980 and 1981, and one between 1977 and 1987. There would appear to be adequate time for suitable regeneration ofthe understorey, and none ofthe plots have experienced fires in the last ten years. While the Forest Types on logged and unlogged plots are fundamentally the same, regenerating logged plots may not have developed specific habitat characteristics suitable for the Ringtail Possum. During road transect 9 on Sonny Road, five Ringtail Possums were detected in logged Moist forest habitats (see Appendix 3). Similarly, Ringtails were observed in these habitats on other transects which specifically sampled logged Moist forest (transects 11 and 15). The availability ofnest sites is considered a major factor limiting distribution and abundance ofthis species (McKay, 1983) and it can occupy a variety ofvegetation types provided the shrub component forms dense tangled foliage. The Ringtail Possum has been shown to be quite abundant in tea-tree shrub and regenerating areas (fyndale-Biscoe and Calaby, 1975), and as it is able to build its own nest (drey), it is not dependent on tree hollows. Personal observation suggests that the increased light conditions on road verges in Moist forest lead to dense (localised) understorey development, which may in turn create suitable habitat for Ringtail Possums. The Ringtail Possum has been recorded in every National Park and Nature Reserve in the region (see Appendix 2) and has a secure status in New South Wales. The conservation strategy proposed for the Wingham Management Area (fruyard Pty. Ltd., 1992) protects the habitat ofthe Common Ringtail Possum through the preservation ofRainforest remnants, and the development ofan extensive network offilter strips, wildlife corridors and conservation zones. These measures should ensure the continued survival ofpopulations throughout the Management Area. (c) CommonBrushtailPossums This species was observed on nine of the 21 road transects (43%) indicating that it is widely distributed within the Management Area. It was recorded from three predator scats, and caught in cage traps on plots in unlogged Moist, unlogged and logged Dry forest. Females with young were Forest Resources Series No. 19 Forestry Commission ofNew South Wales Fauna Survey, Wingham Management Area, Port Macquarie Region Part 1. Mammals -40- observed and trapped on a number ofoccasions, and observations suggest that numbers ofCommon Brushtail Possums are moderate within areas ofits preferred habitat. The results ofthe plot-based survey suggest that Dry forest is the favoured habitat ofthis species, followed by unlogged Moist and then New England forest. Although no significant differences were detected between logged and unlogged plots, it is apparent that past logging practices have reduced the population density ofCommon Brushtail Possums in Moist forest, but had no effect in Dry and New England forest. The high relative population density recorded on unlogged Moist forest plot MUH1 (see Table 14), would appear to be a result ofthe dominance ofthe forest red gum Eucalyptus tereticornis in the overstorey and the dry sc1erophyll understorey (Binns and Chapman, 1992). This has produced a habitat more like that ofDry forest, and favoured by the Common Brushtail Possum. No animals were recorded on plots in Rainforest and logged Moist forest. As was the case with the Common Ringtail Possum, while the Moist Forest Types on logged and unlogged plots are fundamentally the same, regenerating logged plots may not have developed specific habitat characteristics suitable for the Brushtail Possum. Brushtail Possums were not observed on road transects which sampled logged Moist forest only, however Mountain Brushtails were observed in this environment on transects 9 and 15. The Common Brushtail Possum has been recorded in every National Park and Nature Reserve in the region (see Appendix 2) and has a secure status in New South Wales. Both the Common BrushW1 Possum and the Common Ringtail Possum are adaptable animals and not dependent on mature forest. The Brushtail Possum will use hollow logs or rock crevices ifno tree hollows are available (How, 1983). Given their preference for Dry forest environments, and the negligible impact oflogging on population densities in these forests, the Common Brushtail Possum is considered to be adequately conserved within the Management Area. (d) Mountain Brushtail Possums This species was observed on nine ofthe 21 road transects (43%) indicating that it is widely distributed within the Management Area. It was recorded from plots in all Broad Forest Types except New England, and caught in cage traps on plots in logged Rainforest and logged Dry forest. In was recorded from New England Forest Types on road transect number 3. Individuals ofthis species were observed on road transects which passed through logged areas of Rainforest, Moist forest and Dry forest. Observations suggest that its preferred habitat is Rainforest and logged forest with a dense understorey component, although it was also observed in unlogged Dry forest (plot DULl). The Mountain Brushtail Possum has been recorded in every National Park and Nature Reserve in the region except Woko National Park (see Appendix 2) and has a secure status in New South Wales. The Mountain Brushtail Possum is adaptable and not dependent on mature forest Ithas been suggested (Davey, 1984) that the maintainance ofMountain Brushtail populations requires management strategies which maintain or enhance plant species richness and structural complexity in the understorey. Given that the species was observed in both logged and unlogged areas of all Broad Forest Types, existing management strategies would appear to be adequate in order to conserve the Mountain Brushtail Possum within the Management Area. (e) Koala Koalas were recorded on four ofthe 21 road transects (19%), with seven animals observed. Four of these were recorded on a single 5 km transect along Knodingbul Road through logged and unlogged Moist and New England forest (transect 25). Four animals were recorded from plot-based survey in unlogged Dry, unlogged Moist, and logged New England forest, and detected from droppings in logged and unlogged Dry forest, and unlogged Moist and New England forest These results suggest that the Koala is a widespread but uncommon species within the Management Area. Given the generally low soil nutrient status within the Management Area (Forestry Commission ofNew South Forestry Commission of New South Wales Forest Resources Series No. 19 Fauna Survey, Wingham Management Area, -41- Port Macquarie Region Part 1. Mammals Wales, 1990), this result is in line with the findings ofColk, et al. (1990) who suggest that Koalas prefer forests which grow on fertile soils. Koalas were observed resting or feeding in four tree species: blue gum (55%), coastal blackbutt (18%), white mahogany (18%), and New England blackbutt (9%). From the low numbers it is difficult to determine specific habitat preferences however the limited data suggest that the Sydney blue gum (Eucalyptus saligna) is a preferred food tree in this area. Sydney blue gum has a ubiquitous distribution in the Management Area. Best development is found in Forest Types 46 (Sydney blue gum), 47 (tallowwood-Sydney blue gum), and 168 (silvertop stringybark-Sydney blue gum). Itis not uncommon to find it as a composite species, particularly on sites where available soil moisture is not limiting: in the Blackbutt Types 36 (moist) and 37 (dry), Moist Hardwood Types such as Flooded Gum Type 48 and Brushbox Type 53, the "Semi-moist" and Dry Hardwood Types 60 and 62 respectively, and even the New England Blackbutt Type 163. These Forest Types represent broad species associations with a very high floristic (tree) species diversity (see Forestry Commission of New South Wales, 1989). This association oftree species would appear to explain the relatively large numbers ofKoalas observed along road transect 25 in Dingo State Forest (four adult animals, including one female with young). This transect either traverses or is in close proximity to all ofthe above Forest Types except Flooded Gum. Although growing on poor soils here, the Moist forests along this part ofKnodingbul Road contain, mostly as dominants, a number ofknown preferred (and alternate) food trees for Koala in the area (Sydney blue gum Eucalyptus saligna, coastal blackbutt E. pilularis, New England blackbutt E. andrewsii ssp. campanulata, grey gum E. punctata, narrowleaved white mahogany E. acmenioides, tallowwood E. microcorys and forest red gum E. tereticornis), representing a rich food resource. This road transect traversed logged and unlogged sections ofMoist Hardwood and New England Forest Types. Koala were also observed in New England blackbutt (E. andrewsii ssp. campanulata) and coastal blackbutt (E. pilularis) along this transect While the past logging treatments in this section offorest were intensive, it would seem that they have been sufficiently separated, both spatially and chronologically, to allow the continued survival ofKoalas. The animals are currently utilising both logged and unlogged patches offorest in this area. A Koala was observed in a white mahogany Eucalyptus acmenioides on plot MUL5 in Compartment 157 in Bulga State Forest. This plot lies in Forest Type 53 which, in this area, forms a mosaic oftree species: brush box, Sydney blue gum, flooded gum, white mahogany, tallowwood and turpentine in association with coastal blackbutt As this area is scheduled for harvesting operations in the future, it is recommended that standard Forestry Commission prescriptions are followed concerning the pre logging detection and management ofKoala in this area. Given that this area offorest is substantially surrounded by logged forest, it may be pertinent to delay harvesting until sufficient regeneration has taken place to provide adequate Koala habitat in adjoining areas. There are currently 14,187 hectares ofmoderate-high site quality Type 47 (47a and b) in the Wingham Management Area, ofwhich 3,873 ha. (27%) is unlogged. While there are currently only 585 ha. of this Type (unlogged) directly reserved, there are 2,647 ha., 3,000 ha. and 60 ha. permanently conserved within Werrikimbe National Pm, Woko National Park and Mt Seaview Nature Reserve respectively (Truyard Pty. Ltd., 1992). Similarly, there is 1,797 ha. ofForest Type 60 in the Management Area, 463 ha. (25%) ofwhich is unlogged, with 245 ha. ofthis currently reserved from logging. There is 573 ha. ofthis Forest Type permanently reserved within Werrikimbe National Pm. Koalas have been reported from Woko and Werrikimbe National PaIks, Mt. Seaview Nature Reserve and Doyles River State Forest (see Appendix 2) and adjacent areas ofprivately owned land. The Koala Phascolarctos cinereus is currently considered to be endangered in New South Wales and is listed in Part 2 ''vulnerable and rare" ofthe (Interim) Schedule 12 ofthe National PaIks and Wildlife Act. This survey detected Koalas in logged and unlogged areas ofDry, Moist and New England forest Koalas were recorded on a recently burnt plot (MUL2 - burnt March 1991) and an intensively logged plot (NLH2 -logged 1984). These results suggest that past management practices have not precluded the persistence ofthe Koala in the Management Area. The wide distribution ofpreferred Forest Resources Series No. 19 Forestry Commission ofNew South Wales Fauna Survey. Wingham Management Area, Port Macquarie Region Part 1. Mammals -42- food tree species and the reservation ofland as fIlter strips, wildlife corridors and conservation zones within the Management Area (see Truyard Pty. Ltd., 1992) should undoubtedly assure the continued survival ofthe Koala in these forests. (f) Yellow-bellied Gliders Yellow-bellied Gliders were recorded on five ofthe 21 road transects (24%), generally in moist gullies within all Forest Types. They were recorded from the general locality often plots during night foot transect surveys, and observed once within an unlogged New England forest plot. This plot (NUH2) lies within high site quality New England blackbutt forest, with silvertop stringybark Eucalyptus laevopinea and other eucalypt species, and has a dry sclerophyll understorey. The animal was observed in a Sydney blue gum, while another was heard calling in the distance. The Yellow-bellied Glider Petaurus australis is currently considered to be endangered in New South Wales and is listed in Part 2 "vulnerable and rare" ofthe (Interim) Schedule 12 ofthe National Parks and Wildlife Act. The Glider has a disjunct distribution in eastern Australia. Isolated populations occur in northeast Queensland, western Victoria, and southeastern South Australia, but more or less continuous populations occur in eucalypt forests along the east coast from southern Queensland to central Victoria. In areas where it is found it has a patchy distribution which is thought to be in response to local availability of a variety of suitable flowering trees with overlapping blossoming periods (Russell, 1983a) and suitable sap feeding trees (Goldingay, 1991). Yellow-bellied Gliders have been reported from Werrikimbe National Park, Mt Seaview Nature Reserve and Doyles River State Forest (see Appendix 2) and adjacent areas ofprivately owned land. Within the Wingham Management Area, moist gullies appear to be the preferred habitat ofthis species, and animals were observed or recorded within both logged and unlogged areas. It would appear that past management practices have not precluded the persistence ofthe Yellow-bellied Glider in the Management Area, however given its current conservation status, it is recommended that special measures are taken to ensure its continued survival. In this survey, animals were heard calling generally in moister vegetation communities in gullies and along creeklines in unlogged forest in the vicinity ofplots DUH4 (Compartment 157), DUH6 (Compartment 183), MUHl (Compartment 274), MUH5 (Compartment 233), MUL7 (Compartment 170) and NUH2 (Compartment 280). Where areas are scheduled for harvesting operations in the future, it is recommended that standard Forestry Commission prescriptions are followed concerning the pre-Iogging detection and management ofGliders in this area, with special attention being paid to the identification offeed and den trees. The Glider has been reported to have a large home range: 42 63 ha. inVictoria (Henry and Craig, 1984), 30-55 ha. in southern New South Wales (Goldingay, 1989), and is dependent on tree hollows for den sites. In the Eden region, den hollows ofthis species are located in large, live trees (Recher et al., 1980). The implications offorestry management practices for the Yellow-bellied Glider have recently been discussed (Goldingay and Kavanagh, 1991). While obviously affected by logging operations, these Gliders tend to be concentrated in the moister sites within the forests studied here. The extensive network ofmoist gully systems within the Management Area and the proposed reservation ofland as filter strips, wildlife corridors and conservation zones (see Truyard Pty. Ltd., 1992) should undoubtedly ameliorate impacts offuture management practices on this species. 3. Small Arboreal Mammals Five species ofsmall mammal which are at least partly arboreal were recorded in this survey. Numbers ofindividuals were extremely low, reflecting the impact ofextended drought on breeding patterns. Spatial patterns were also affected with more animals (than expected) tending to be found in moist areas. These patterns were evident in similar surveys being conducted concurrently in other forest areas within the State, and are supported by the low numbers ofsmall mammals caught during ground-based trapping at Specialized Survey Sites and detected from predator scats. All species that Forestry Commission ofNew South Wales Forest Resources Series No. 19 Fauna Survey, Wingham Management Area, -43- Port Macquarie Region Part 1. Mammals could be expected in the Area were recorded on this study except for the Brush-tailed Phascogale (Tuan) and Eastern Pygmy Possum. These two species are likely residents but extremely difficult 10 detect (a) Brush-tailed Phascogale The Brush-tailed Phascogale Phascogale tapoataja is currently considered to be endangered in New South Wales and is listed in Part 2 ''vulnerable and rare" ofthe (Interim) Schedule 12 ofthe National Paries and Wildlife Act It is largely arboreal and has a preferred habitat ofdry sclerophyll forest with little ground cover (Cuttle, 1983). Itis regarded as common within its range, but clearing offorest habitat (primarily for agriculture) has resulted in a restricted distribution in some areas. There is little data are available on the effects offorestry operations on Phascogales. The Brush-tailed Phascogale has been recorded from Werrikimbe National Park and Doyles River State Forest (see Appendix 2). Given the widespread extent ofDry forest in the Management Area, particularly with reduced ground cover, and the quantities ofthis habitat which are to be reserved (Truyard Pty. Ltd., 1992), there appears to be ample provision for this species' conservation in local and regional terms. (b) Eastern Pygmy Possum The Eastern Pygmy Possum is found from rainforest through sclerophyll forest to tree heath. They construct nests ofleaves and shredded bade, usually in tree hollows but sometimes as independent structures. A study oftheir habitat requirements in south-eastern New South Wales suggested that they preferred areas with high floristic diversity, rich in species from the families Myrtaceae and Papillionaceae, with a well developed understorey (Davey, 1984). Little data are available on the effects offorestry operations on Pygmy Possums, however there are not dependent on mature forest for nesting sites (Turner, 1983). The only report ofthis species in the region is from a National Parks and Wildlife Service "checklist" ofspecies from Werrikimbe National Park, however it is expected that the Pygmy Possum occurs in low numbers in State Forests, National Parks and Reserves throughout the region. While its status in these areas is currently unknown, the maintenance ofan effective system offilter strips, wildlife corridors and reserves within the Management Area should contribute substantially to its conservation on a local scale. Regionally, it should be adequately protected within the existing National Park and Reserve system. (c) Sugar Glider A single Sugar Glider was recorded on one ofthe 21 road transects, however vehicle-based spotlighting tends 10 underestimate numbers ofthis species. Sugar Gliders were recorded from ten plots during the night foot transect surveys. The low numbers ofanimals registered means that it is not possible 10 assess habitat preferences and logging impacts, however animals were recorded in all Broad Forest Types except Rainforest, and in logged and unlogged forest. The species would appear to be uncommon within the Management Area. Smith (1982), Braithwaite et al. (1983), Davey (1984) and Suckling (1984) have reported that Sugar Gliders preferred habitats containing species ofAcacia, a genus often well represented in disturbed areas. Regrowth forest provides suitable foraging habitat for Sugar Gliders but the species is usually absent from these areas due to lack ofsuitable tree hollows for nesting (Suckling and Macfarlane, 1983). Lunney (1987) found Sugar Gliders were able to utilize retained trees ofall sizes within logged areas, however their presence in these logged areas was probably dependent on the occurrence of suitable hollows in adjacent unlogged gullies. Sugar Gliders have been reported from Werrikimbe National Pade, Boorganna Nature Reserve and Enfield, Doyles River and Chichester State Forests, and from privately owned land in the region. Vigorous regeneration ofAcacia species after logging has been reported in the Management Area (Binns and Chapman, 1992) suggesting that one major food source should not be limiting here. The mosaic ofForest Types which typifies the Wingham . Management Area, combined with current prescriptions retaining "habitat trees" inlogged areas, and the proposed strategy offilter strips, wildlife corridors, and conservation areas, should ensure its continued survival in these forests. Forest Resources Series No. 19 Forestry Commission ofNew South Wales Fauna Survey, Wingham Management Area, Port Macquarie Region Part 1. Mammals -44- (d) Other small arboreal mammals Ofthe five species ofsmall mammal (which are at least partly arboreal) recorded in this survey, numbers ofthe Brown Antechinus, Bush Rat, Fawn-footed Melomys and Feathertail Glider were too low to allow quantitative investigation oftheir habitat preferences and the impact ofpast management practices. In this sUlvey the Brown Antechinus Antechinus stuartii was trapped in both logged and unlogged forest, and most females were carrying young as expected for this time ofyear. All captures were made in the Rainforest plots or Moist forest plots with a dense vine thicket understorey. It was interesting to note the absence ofthis species from Dry forest, a likely consequence of the extremely dry conditions which prevailed in the year preceding the survey. The extremely low trapping success (twenty-two captures for 4,500 trap nights, ie. 0.5 %) is considered to be a consequence ofthe extended drought and removal ofground cover by recent fires. The presence and abundance ofsmall ground mammals has previously been shown to be related to structural changes in the vegetation understorey after fire (Christensen and Kimber, 1975; Fox and McKay, 1981). In addition, population numbers of the Brown Antechinus are at their lowest at this time ofyear because ofthe "die-off' of adult males after breeding. The Brown Antechinus is considered to be common and secure in New South Wales and has been reported from all State Forests, National Parks and Reserves in the region (Appendix 2). The results ofthis survey would suggest that Rainforest and Moist forest environments are providing a "refuge" for this species during extremely dry conditions, and therefore the protection of representative samples ofthese habitats through the designation of filter strips and wildlife corridors should ensure the continuing survival ofpopulations within the Management Area. The Bush Rat Rattusjuscipes is primarily a terrestrial species which occasionally climbs trees in areas offorest with a dense understorey vegetation. The Bush Rat is expected to be common in most habitats in the Management Area provided sufficient ground cover is available. There is currently no evidence to suggest that logging has long-term effects on this species, although Lunney et al. (1987) demonstrated that numbers ofR.juscipes may be severely reduced for at least 15 years after logging, their numbers may, in fact, be higher after logging in Dry forest environments (Recher et al., 1980), probably in response to the development of dense ground cover during early stages ofregeneration. The species is permanently conserved within National Parks and Reserves in the region (see Appendix 2) and is considered to be locally and regionally secure. The Fawn-footed Melomys Melomys cervinipes was trapped on plots in logged Rainforest, and logged and unlogged Moist forest In New South Wales, this species generally favours closed and wet sclerophyll forest habitats, particularly where there are vine thickets (Redhead, 1983). Ithas been reported from all State Forests, National Parks and Reserves in the region except Mt Seaview Nature Reserve (see Appendix 2). The protection ofrepresentative samples ofRainforest and Moist forest habitats in the Management Area through the designation offilter strips and wildlife corridors should ensure that the species is not detrimentally affected by future logging operations. The Feathertail Glider Acrobatespygbaeus is widely distributed in the tall eucalypt forests along the east coast ofAustralia (Russell, 1983b), but because ofits small size and weight, it is difficult to detect in spotlight surveys and effectively trap in conventional box traps. The only Feathertail Glider trapped in this survey was a female with young caught on a logged Rainforest plot (RLL1). The species has been recorded from Woko and WerrikimbeNational Parks and is considered to be adequately conserved on a regional basis. The species is thought to feed predominantly on eucalypt pollen (Turner, 1982; Davey, 1984) and has been shown to exhibit seasonal shifts in habitat utilisation, primarily in response to the availability ofpollen from myrtaceous shrubs and trees (Davey, 1984). The continued conservation ofthis species within the Wingham Management Area requires management strategies which ensure the maintenance ofthis seasonal resource. It is considered that the mosaic nature ofBroad Forest Types within the Management Area, combined with the proposed strategy of filter strips, wildlife corridors, and conservation areas (Truyard Pty. Ltd., 1992) adequately satisfies this requirement Forestry Commission ofNew South Wales Forest Resources Series No. 19 Fauna Survey, Wingham Management Area, -45- PortMacquarie Region Part 1. Mammals 4. Small Terrestrial Mammals In keeping with the aims and objectives ofthe survey, investigations for small terrestrial mammals concentrated on a species ofhigh conselVation significance (the Hastings River Mouse), and areas of restricted or unusual habitat The Hastings River Mouse Psuedomys oralis is currently considered to be endangered in New South Wales and is listed in Part 2 "vulnerable and rare" ofthe (Interim) Schedule 12 ofthe National Pades and Wildlife Act. The species was not trapped in this sUlVey, however given the low population numbers ofother small mammal species (see above), it is likely that such small populations could have been missed in this sulVey. The preferred habitat ofthis species is now well defined (see King, 1984; Read, 1991) and given that the species is known from Werrikimbe National Park to the north, and State Forests to the south, it is reasonable to expect that it may occur here, provided suitable habitats exist. There has recently been an extensive sUlVey (>2,000 trap nights) by the Forestry Commission ofNew South Wales in suitable habitats within Riamukka and Enfield State Forests to the west ofthe Management Area, however no Pseudomys oralis have been caught. Nevertheless, as extensive drought made it hard to identify possible sites for the species during this sUlVey, it would seem appropriate to resurvey during more favourable conditions in the future. Specialized sUlVeys in areas ofrestricted habitat confirmed the current low population sizes ofsmall terrestrial mammals. Low numbers ofthe Brown Antechinus and Bush Rat were trapped at a number ofrocky and grassy sites, and two introduced House Mice were trapped near the camping area at Maxwell's Flat. Trapping success rates were very low in most habitats: Rainforest sites 0-1%, rocky sites 1-5% and grassy sites 1-4%. Moister sites chosen as possible Hastings River Mouse habitat returned higher capture rates, principally due to repeated captures ofthe Bush Rat Rattus juscipes : swampy grassland site 20%, and sites SSI-3 1-14%. These results confirm the previous conclusion that during extended drought periods, moist habitats probably act as important refuges for many species. A number ofsmall terrestrial mammal species have been reported in the surrounding region (see Appendix 2) but were not detected in this sUlVey. The Swamp Rat Rattus lutreolus should be present in swampy and surrounding moist areas, and have been previously caught in habitats similar to those sampled in this sUlVey (R. Williams pers. comm.). They are known from scats collected in Werrikimbe National Park (Harden and Robertshaw, 1985) and were as identified as "probable" in a dog/dingo scat collected from Knodingbul Road adjacent to plot NLH4 (see Table 7) in this sUlVey. The preselVation ofriparian environments within filter strips and wildlife corridors should protect the preferred habitat ofthis species within the Management Area. The Dusky Antechinus Antechinus swainsonii should also occur in moist, well vegetated gullies within the Management Area. The species has been recorded from Werrikimbe National Park and is adequately conselVed in National Parks and ReselVes throughout its known range. Ofthe plots sampled in this sUlVey, only the Rainforest areas appeared to satisfy its known habitat requirements. The permanent protection that is proposed for these environments (see Truyard Pty. Ltd.) should ensure the conselVation ofthis habitat within the Management Area. The Yellow-footed Antechinus Antechinusjlavipes is recorded on a "checklist" from Werrikimbe National Park. This species has a widespread distribution in New South Wales and a secure status in conselVation reselVes. It is currently presumed not to occur in the Management Area. Similarly, the Common Planigale Planigale maculata and New Holland Mouse Pseudomys novaehollandiae have been reported from the region. The Planigale is listed on a checklist from Boorganna Nature ReselVe and would be toward the southern end of its known distribution in this region. It is currently presumed not to occur in the Management Area. The New Holland Mouse Pseudomys novaehollandiae has been recorded from Woko National Park. It has a preference for habitats which have a heath-like shrub layer occurring on sandy soils (Kemper, 1983) and therefore is unlikely to occur within the Management Area. Forest Resources Series No. 19 Forestry Commission ofNew South Wales Fauna Survey. Wingham Management Area, Port Macquarie Region Part 1. Mammals -46- Although not recorded during this survey, the Common Dunnart Sminthopsis murina may occur in the drier grassy woodland areas, usually associated with sandy soil (R. Williams pers. comm.). Ithas not been reported from the region, however it is a difficult species to trap. The Dunnart is adapted to a mid-successional complex ofvegetation and therefore benefits from periodic burning ofits habitat (Fox, 1983). Although few areas ofsuitable habitat exist within the Management Area (see Introduction section), existing fuel management strategies in Dry forest environments should ensure that a range ofunderstorey successional stages persist in these localities. 5. Large Terrestrial Mammals Fourteen species oflarge terrestrial mammal have been reported from the region, and all but the Common Wombat and Red-legged Pademelon were recorded in this survey. It is likely that the shallow soils which typify most ofthe Management Area make this marginal habitat for the Wombat, however the species has been reported from an area ofdeeper basaltic soils 10 the west in Enfield State Forest (J. Simmons pers. comm. and Scotts, 1992). The Wombat has also been reported from Werrikimbe National Parlc and Mt. Seaview Nature Reserve, and is considered to be adequately conserved within the region. The Red-legged Pademelon Thylogale stigmatica is currently considered to be endangered in New South Wales and is listed in Part 2 ''vulnerable and rare" ofthe (Interim) Schedule 12 ofthe National Parks and Wildlife Act. The species has been reported from Werrikimbe National PaIk and from Enfield State Forest within the Management Area (Smith, 1991). The Red-legged Pademelon was not recorded in this survey, however it is difficult to differentiate from the Red-necked Pademelon Thylogale thetis in areas ofdense undergrowth. The preferred habitat ofthe Red-legged Pademelon would appear 10 be rainforest, however it is also found in wet sclerophyll forest (Johnson, 1983). The impact oflogging on this species is unknown, however in Tasmania, Pademelons initially feed in young regrowth (after logging) and use adjacent forest for shelter. As the undergrowth develops over time, regrowth areas also become suitable habitat for shelter (Green, 1982). The preservation of rainforest environments, filter strips and wildlife corridors should protect the favoured habitat ofthis species, however ongoing surveys will be required to clarify the status ofthis species within the Management Area. During the fauna survey, macropods were recorded during spotlight surveys, night and day-time travel and the general road survey for arboreal marsupials. Small to medium sized macropods were ubiquitous and abundant throughout the study area. The two large species to be expected in the area, the Eastern Grey Kangaroo and the Wallaroo, were recorded, but not commonly. They are most likely confined to the drier grassland/woodland areas, although the habitat ofthe Wallaroo usually includes areas with steep escarpments, rocky hills and stony rises (poole, 1983). The Eastern Grey Kangaroo has been reported from Werrikimbe National Park and areas ofprivately owned land in the region, and is considered to be adequately conserved. The Wallaroo has been reported from Woko and Werrikimbe National Parks, and is similarly considered to be adequately conserved in the region. The Red-necked Wallaby and the Red-necked Pademelon were frequently sighted during the survey, with the fonner species common in forests with open grassy understorey, and the lattermost common in Moist forest and Rainforest. The Red-necked Wallaby is common in eastern New South Wales and has been reported from all National PaIks and Reserves in the region. The Red-necked Pademelon is similarly common in rainforest and dense eucalypt forests within its range and has been reported from Woko and Werrikimbe National Parks, Boorganna Nature Reserve, and Doyles River, Enfield and Chichester State Forests (see Appendix 2). Both species are considered to have a secure status locally and regionally are not likely to be adversely affected by forestry operations. The Swamp Wallaby was commonly observed in most habitats during the survey, particularly in areas adjacent to moist gully environments. This species is widespread in eastern Australia utilising areas with thick undergrowth in forest, woodland and heath environments. It has been reported from all National Parks and Reserves, and all State Forests in the region (see Appendix 2). It is considered to be adequately conserved at a local and regional level. and the preservation ofriparian environments and filter strips should protect the favoured habitat ofthis species within the Management Area. Forestry Commission ofNew South Wales Forest Resources Series No. 19 Fauna Survey, Wingham Management Area. -47- Port Macquarie Region Part 1. Mammals The Panna Wallaby Macropus parma was once thought to be extinct in New South Wales (Ride, 1957), and although it is now known to have a comparatively wide distribution, it is regarded as rare because it is infrequently sighted and there is very little infonnation on the density and stability of known populations (Maynes, 1983). It is currently considered to be endangered in New South Wales and is listed in Part 2 "vulnemble and mre" ofthe (Interim) Schedule 12 ofthe National Parks and Wildlife Act The Panna Wallaby, recorded commonly during the study, occurs in logged forests and plantations as well as undisturbed sites throughout its range in northeastern New South Wales. Optimum habitat appears to be wet sclerophyll forest with a thick, shrubby understorey associated with grassy patches (Maynes, 1977; Read and Fox, 1991) and in this survey it was detected most frequently in Moist forest (both logged and unlogged) and Rainforest. A knowledge ofits habitat requirements suggests that initial disturbance by logging activity may displace some individuals, however regenerating forest should provide suitable habitat in the medium to longer tenn. It would appear that the mosaic ofBroad Forest Types found within the Wingham Management Area provides excellent habitat for this species and there is no evidence to suggest that past management strategies have been detrimental to its conservation at a local level. Ithas been reported from Woko and Werrikimbe National Parks, and Doyles River and Enfield State Forests, and therefore would appear to be also secure at a regional level. The apparently common status of the Panna Wallaby in the region provides a good opportunity for ongoing research into specific details'ofhabitat utilisation for this species. The Long-nosed Potoroo Potorous tridactylus, although often locally common, has a limited distribution within its range. Itis currently considered to be endangered ("mre and vulnemble") in New South Wales (Interim) Schedule 12 National Parks and Wildlife Act. The Long-nosed Potoroo feeds predominantly on fungi, insects and berries and favours areas with a dense undergrowth. Although only trapped at one site (OUHS) this species could occur throughout the Management Area where suitable cover occurs (long gmss, ferns and bmcken). Smith (1991) recorded the species from similar habitat within Enfield State Forest within the Wingham Management Area. The are also records for this species from Werrikimbe National Park and Chichester State Forest (see Appendix 2). The effects ofpast management pmctices on the Long-footed Potoroo (in this Management Area) are unknown, however in Tasmania, populations have been shown to recover after logging as a dense understorey develops (Gowland, 1977; Green, 1982). Both the Panna Wallaby and the Long-nosed Potoroo were detected in heavily logged sc1erophyll forest during this study. Although utilising logged habitats, the status ofthe Long-nosed Potoroo is currently uncertain within the Management Area. It is recommended that future surveys for monitoring purposes attempt to clarify its distribution and habitat usage. In particular, the area adjacent to plot DUHS in Compartment 183 (where an individual was trapped) should receive particular attention as it is scheduled for future logging opemtions. 6. Other Native Mammals The five other native mammal species occurring in the area have no known requirements for unlogged habitat. The Echidna is expected to occur in low numbers throughout the study area and has a wide distribution in New South Wales. Their presence will be influenced by the occurrence oftheir food (ants and termites) mther than characteristics ofthe vegetation. They have been found in all ages of forest regrowth (Loyn et al., 1980; Macfarlane, 1988). The Northern Brown Bandicoot is approaching the southern limit ofits distribution at Wingham and is common and secure throughout its range. In this survey it was recorded in unlogged Moist forest, logged and unlogged Dry forest, and logged New England forest It has been reported from Woko and Werrikimbe National Parks, and Enfield State Forest (see Appendix 2). The Long-nosed Bandicoot is similarly secure within logged and unlogged components of its distribution. In this survey it was detected in all Broad Forest Types, both logged and unlogged, and it has been reported from Werrikimbe National Park, Boorganna Nature Reserve and Enfield State Forest. Both Bandicoots were found to be common throughout the forests ofthe Wingham Management Area. The Long nosed Bandicoot showed a preference for the Moist forest and the Northern Brown Bandicoot preferred the dried grassy woodlands, although there was some overlap with both species being found at a number ofsites. Forest Resources Series No. 19 Forestry Commission ofNew South Wales Fauna Survey, Wingham Management Area, Port Macquarie Region Part 1. Mammals -48- The Spotted-tailed (Tiger) Quoll Dasyurus maculatus is uncommon over most ofits range and is currently considered to be endangered ("rare and vulnerable") in New South Wales (Interim) Schedule 12 National Parks and Wildlife Act. It is the largest marsupial carnivore on the mainland ofAustralia, and in some areas populations have declined significantly following the arrival ofEuropeans (Lunney and Leary. 1988). Itis currently regarded as threatened because ofthe continued clearing ofits favoured habitats. and because ofpredation by and competition from the introduced feral cat and fox (Edgar. 1983). The fact that Strahan (1989) considered its status in New South Wales to be "secure" highlights the need for more detailed distributional data for this species. In this survey. two Quolls were caught on a plot in unlogged New England forest (NUH2). both being adult females with evidence of approaching litters. There was ample evidence (scats) that the Quolls were also utilising other Broad Forest Types. both logged and unlogged. This species has been recorded from Werrikimbe National Park. and Boorganna Nature Reserve. and is expected to occur in small numbers throughout the Management Area. Although utilising logged habitats. the status ofthe Spotted-tailed Quoll is currently uncertain within the Management Area. It is recommended that future surveys for monitoring purposes attempt to clarify its distribution and habitat usage. The Platypus is known from streams within the Management Area and in nearby localities. Ithas been reported from Werrikimbe National Park and Boorganna Nature Reserve. Given that Forestry Commission management prescriptions provide for the protection ofriparian environments. the species is not expected to be placed at risk due to current management practices (Grant. 1991). 7. Introduced Species The rabbit was detected in one predator scat and observed in the open grassy area surrounding the Boot Hill Forestry Camp. This species is known to occur in Werrikimbe National Park. and is widespread in cleared agricultural land in the region. Within the Management Area it probably occurs in some areas adjacent to cleared private property. however the impact ofthis introduced species on native mammals is not known to be significant in forested areas. Introduced carnivores may be deleterious to populations of small macropods and other marsupials. and to reptiles and amphibians. Only one feral dog was observed during this survey (on Grassy Ridge Road) however a number ofDingo/dog scats were collected. Dingos were heard howling on a number ofoccasions and it is uncertain how widespread feral dogs may be within the Management Area. Analysis of Dingo/dog scats revealed the prey to be principally Pademelons. Swamp Wallabies. Brushtail and Ringtail Possums. and as these are all common species in the region the impact on mammal populations is currently considered to be slight. Foxes were not sighted during the survey. but scats were noted along some ofthe roadways. Foxes have been reported from Werrikimbe National Park and Mt. Seaview Nature Reserve and privately owned land in the region. Feral cats were frequently observed during the survey. and one individual was caught in a cage trap in logged New England forest (plot NLH4). Cats should be considered a potential threat to native species. but given the proximity offarmland areas and the high rate ofpublic usage ofthe forest, it is difficult to envisage how the accidental and deliberate release ofcats into the forest can be avoided. Feral cats have also been reported from Werrikimbe National Park. and it must be assumed that they are widespread in the region. The present impact ofthese predators on the native fauna is unknown. There was no evidence offeral Pigs found during the study. and feral Goats would appear to be restricted to steep. stony areas near Rowleys Rock. 8. Fire Management In order to reduce the degree offire hazard associated with the build-up ofa large volume offuel. prescribed burning within the Manage~ent Area is currently carried out under mild weather conditions. primarily in Dry Hardwood Types. Burning is conducted both in strategic areas (eg. along selected roadsides ormajor ridgelines). and across broad areas. in such a manner so as to protect areas Forestry Commission ofNew South Wales Forest Resources Series No. 19 Fauna Survey, Wingham Management Area, -49- Port Macquarie Region Part 1. Manunals ofrainforest, sclerophyll forest types with an advanced understorey ofrainforest canopy species, and other areas susceptible to damage by fire (Forestry Commission ofNew South Wales, 1990). Research into the short and medium-tenn effects offire is currently being conducted by the Forestry Commission ofNew South Wales and other government agencies, therefore it was not an intention of this survey to investigate the effects of fire upon faunal communities. Plots were established in forest areas with a broad range offire histories (last burnt 0-40 years ago) in order to sample the full range of variation available, and therefore some comments can reliably be made concerning fire effects. There were no clear patterns in fauna! richness or abundance that could be directly related to fire history, however it was difficult to separate the effects offire and drought on understorey habitats in recently burnt areas. It is unlikely that low intensity fires (prescribed burns) will have an impact on arboreal mammals, and this was continned at plot MUHl which was recently burnt yet had high relative population densities ofGreater Gliders and Brushtail Possums, with Yellow-bellied Gliders in a nearby gully. Koalas were observed in recently burnt forest (plot MUL2 - burnt 1991), forest burnt within the last twelve years (plots DUH4 - 1980, MUL5 - 1980, NLH2 - 1984), but not on plots in forest with longer times since last fire. Sugar Gliders were recorded in plots with a wide range of times since last fire (0-33 years), including areas offorest with a history of frequent burning. Macropods that require dense undergrowth for shelter would be disadvantaged by frequent fire, however this study showed that the preferred habitat ofthe Swamp Wallaby, Panna Wallabies, Red necked Pademelon and Long-nosed Potoroo was moist gullies, areas which are seldom affected by prescribed burns. Understorey vegetation regenerating after fire would increase the food resource available to most ofthese species, and additionally for the larger Grey Kangaroo and Wallaroo. Broad scale prescribed burning is most likely to impact upon small mammal communities in Dry forest where they require some form ofunderstorey vegetation for shelter. The dependence ofsmall mammal communities on the complexity ofstructure ofshrubs, litter and ground cover is well known (see Dickman, 1991; Catling, 1991 and references therein). Different species have been shown to require vegetatio~ at different stages ofregeneration after fire (eg. Christensen and Kimber, 1975; Fox and McKay, 1981). Ideally, to maximise faunal diversity, management should aim to produce a mosaic pattern ofburn within areas subject to prescribed burning, with different areas being burnt at differing frequencies and some areas not being burnt at all. While the existing fire management strategy would seem to address this goal within the Wingham Management Area, it is difficult to incorporate the incidence ofarson and the effects of extended dry weather conditions into any long tenn plan. Analysis ofexisting understorey communities suggested that regular low intensity fire had not substantially altered the understorey floristic composition (Binns and Chapman, 1992). Itwould seem reasonable to assume therefore that regenerating environments have the potential to provide the necessary "natural" habitats required to support the full community ofsmall mammals expected. The results ofthis survey suggest that under the current conditions of extended dry weather, it appears that moist environments, in which the effects offire and drought are reduced, are functioning as valuable refuges for a number of small mammal species. Catling (1991) has expressed concern that frequent low-intensity prescribed burning operations con ducted in Autumn have the potential to vastly simplify understorey vegetation structure in the long tenn. While this may advantage certain species (e.g. Brush-tailed Phascogale, Common Wombat, Red-necked Wallaby, Eastern Grey Kangaroo, Hastings River Mouse and Dingo), it potentially could disadvantage others (e.g. Spotted-tailed Quoil, Dusky Antachinus, Bandicoots, small Possums and Gliders and small Wallabies). The issues raised by Catling are beyond the scope ofthis study, how ever, results from other studies suggest that, where feasible, consideration should be given to reducing the frequency ofbroad-scale burning in Dry forest environments within the Wingham Management Area. Itmay be feasible to institute a more varied regime offiring in selected areas so as to increase the diversity ofhabitats available (Christensen and Maisey, 1987) and, therefore, maximise their fauna! conservation value. Forest Resources Series No. 19 Forestry Commission ofNew South Wales Fauna Survey, Wingham Management Area, Port Macquarie Region Part 1. Mammals -50- 9. Conservation Issues This survey has fully considered the issues raised by the National Parks and Wildlife Service ofNew South Wales concerning the fauna component ofthe Environmental Impact Statement which has been prepared for the Wingham Management Area (fruyard Pty. Ltd., 1992). In particular, the survey design has enabled the relative size and extent of animal populations to be assessed, and their habitat preferences established. The plot-based component ofthe survey design has allowed an assessment ofthe impact on fauna from the proposed activities, and the development ofappropriate mitigation measures. Those species dependent on utilising unlogged forests have been identified, and the occurrence ofrare and endangered species has been investigated. No mammal species listed as "threatened" on the revised (Interim) Schedule 12 (National Parks and Wildlife Act) were recorded during the survey, and none are expected to occur within the Management Area. Five species listed as "vulnerable and rare" were recorded during the survey (Tiger Quoll Dasyurus maculatus, Koala Phascolarctos cinereus, Panna Wallaby Macropus parma, Yellow-bellied Glider Petaurus australis, and Long-nosed Potoroo Potorous tridactylus). A further four species may occur in the Area (Squirrel Glider Petaurus norfolcensis, Hastings River Mouse Pseudomys oralis, Red-legged Pademelon Thylogale stigmatica, and Brush-tailed Phascogale Phascogale tapoata!a). It is not expected that any ofthese animals will be seriously affected by future management operations, however the need for ongoing survey/monitoring was identified. Options to ameliorate the impacts ofmanagement practices, and the contribution ofthese forests to fauna conservation on a local and regional scale are addressed in detail in the Environmental Impact Statement (fruyard Pty. Ltd., 1992). An important issue here is the overall conservation status of the Wingham Management Area and its relationship to reserves in the region. While the diversity ofthe State Forest areas is high, all species recorded here are known from Werrikimbe National Park to the north-west, and most in the other smaller reserves nearby. Given the "peninsular" nature ofthe Management Area, it is not functioning as a corridor between large forested areas, but more as a buffer between Werrikimbe and the developed land to the south. The complex interspersion ofrainforest patches with Moist and Dry Forest Types provides refuge environments for fauna during wildfires and extended drought periods. Wingham Management Area makes an important contribution to regional fauna conservation in the long tenn because ofits high habitat diversity, and will continue to do so through active management ofthe forest environments. Forestry Commission ofNew South Wales Forest Resources Series No. 19 Fauna Survey, Wingham Management Area, -51- PortMacquarie Region Part 1. Mammals ACKNOWLEDGEMENTS The author would like to thank Jim Simmons (District ForesterTaree) and Andrew Ingles (Regional Planning ForesterPortMacquarie) for their untiring involvement in the planning and implementation ofthis project. Similarly, the District staff and field crews must be congratulated for their efforts in the establishment ofsurvey plots and logistic support Thanks to: Mm Edwards, John Cooper, Barry Spicer, Howard Cooper, Vince Miller, Bill Abdoo, Clyde Mills and Neville SketchIey. The author would also like to acknowledge the assistance ofstafffrom the Port Macquarie and Taree Forestry offices, Spencer Bruskin (Regional Research Forester Wauchope), and Pamela Sum (Research Division), in the development ofthe survey design and production ofdocumentation. Thanks also to Tom Thornton (port Macquarie) and Traecey Brassil (Research Division) for the preparation ofsurvey locality maps for the final reports. Ray Williams, Jim Simmons and Andrew Ingles are thanked for their helpful comments on the draft manuscript, and Joy Gardner, Rhonda Proudford and Ruth Watson for the preparation ofthe final documents. REFERENCES Binns, D. (1990). Vegetation dynamics ofEucalyptus microcorys - Eucalyptus saligna Wet Sclerophyll forest in response to logging. Unpublished M.Sc. Thesis. University ofNew England. Binns, D. and Chapman, W. S. (1992). Flora survey, Wingham Management Area, Port Macquarie region. Forestry Commission ofNew South Wales Forest Resources Series No. 19. Braithwaite, L. W., Dudzinski, M. L. and Turner, J. (1983). Studies on the arboreal marsupial fauna ofeucalypt forests being harvested for woodpulp at Eden, New South Wales. n. Relationship between the fauna density, richness and diversity, and measured variables ofthe habitat Aust. Wildl. Res. 10: 231-247. Calder, T. G., Golding, B. G. and Manderson, A D. (1983). Management for arboreal species in the Wombat State Forest. Monash University Graduate School ofEnvironmental Sciences. Environmental Report No. 16. Catling, P. C. (1991) Eclogical effects ofprescribed burning practices on the mammals of southeastern Australia. In Conservation ofAustralia's Forest Fauna. Lunney, D. ed. pp. 353-363. Royal Zoological Society ofNew South Wales, Mosman. Christensen, P. and Kimber, P. C. (1975). Effect ofprescribed burning on the flora and fauna of south-west Australian forests. Proc. Ecol. Soc. Aust. 9: 85-106. Christensen, P. and Maisey, K. (1987). The use offire as a management tool in fauna conservation reserves. In Nature Conservation: The Role ofRemnants ofNative Vegetation. Saunders, D. A., Arnold, G. W., Burbidge, AA and Hopkins, A J. M. eds. Surrey Beatty and Sons: Sydney. . Cork, S. J., Margules, C. R. and Braithwaite, L. W. (1990). Implications ofKoala nutrition and the ecology ofother arboreal marsupials in south-eastern New South Wales for the conservation and management ofKoalas. In Koala Summit. Managing Koalas in New South Wales. Lunney, D., Urquart, C. and Reed. P. eds. pp. 48-57. National Parlcs and Wildlife Service of New South Wales. Cuttle, P. (1983). Brush-tailed Phascogale. In The Australian Museum Complete Book ofAustralian Mammals. Strahan, R. ed. pp. 34-35. Angus and Robertson, Sydney. Davey, S. M. (1984). Habitat preferences ofarboreal marsupials within a coastal forest in southern New South Wales. In Possums and Gliders. Smith, AP. and Hume lD. eds. pp. 509-516. Surrey Beatty and Sons, Sydney. Forest Resources Series No. 19 Forestry Commission ofNew South Wales Fauna Survey. Wingham Management Area, Port Macquarie Region Part 1. Mammals -52- Dickman. C. R. (1991). Use oftrees by ground-dwelling mammals: implications for management. In Conservation ofAustralia's Forest Fauna. Lunney, D. ed. pp. 125-136. Royal Zoological Society ofNew South Wales, Mosman. Dickman, C. R. and McKechnie, C. A. (1985). A survey ofthe mammals ofMount Royal and BarringtonTops, New South Wales. Aust.2ool. 21: 531-543. Edgar, R. (1983). Spotted-tailed Quoll. In The Australian Museum Complete Book ofAustralian Mammals. Strahan, R. ed. p. 18. Angus and Robertson, Sydney. Forestry Commission ofNew South Wales (1989). Forest types inNew South Wales. Forestry Commission ofNew South Wales Research Note No. 17. Forestry Commission ofNew South Wales (1990). Management Plan for Wingham Management Area. Fox, B. J. (1983). Common Dunnart. In The Australian Museum Complete Book ofAustralian Mammals. Strahan, R. ed. pp. 52-53. Angus and Robertson, Sydney. Fox, B. J. and McKay, G. M. (1981). Small mammal responses to pyric successional changes in eucalypt forest. Aust. J. Ecol. 6: 29-41. Goldingay, R. L. (1989). The behavioural ecology ofthe Gliding Marsupial, Petaurus australis. Ph.D. Thesis. University ofWollongong, New South Wales. Goldingay, R. L. (1991). An evaluation ofhypotheses to explain the pattern ofsap feeding by the Yellow-bellied Gilder, Petaurus australis. Aust. J. Ecol. 16: 491-500. Goldingay, R. L. and Kavanagh, R. P. (1991). The Yellow-bellied Glider: a review ofits ecology and management considerations. In Conservation ofAustralia's Forest Fauna. Lunney, D. ed. pp. 365-375. Royal Zoological Society ofNew South Wales, Mosman. Gowland, P. N. (1977). Vertebrate fauna ofthe Buckland Training Area, Tasmania. CSIRO Division ofLand Use Research Technical Memorandum 77/12. Grant, T. R. (1991). The biology and management ofthe Platypus Ornithorhynchus anatinus in New South Wales. National Parks and Wildlife Service ofNew South Wales Species Management ReportNumber 5. Green, R. H. (1982). The activity and movement offauna in Compartment 2, Maggs Mountain, Tasmania, in the first five years offorest regeneration. Rec. Queen Vie. Mus. 75: 1-31. Henry, S. R. and Craig, S. A. (1984). Diet, ranging behaviour and social organisation ofthe Yellow bellied Glider (petaurus australis Shaw) in Victoria. In Possums and Gliders. Smith, A. P. and Hume, I. D. eds. pp. 331-341. Surrey Beatty and Sons, Sydney. How, R. A. (1983). Common Brushtail Possum. In The Australian Museum Complete Book of Australian Mammals. Strahan, R. ed. pp. 147-148. Angus and Robertson, Sydney. Johnson, P. M. (1983). Red-legged Pademelon. In The Australian Museum Complete Book of Australian Mammals. Strahan, R. ed. p. 225. Angus and Robertson, Sydney. Kavanagh, R. P. (1988). The impact ofpredation by the Powerful Owl (Ninox strenua) on a population ofthe Greater Glider (Petauroides volans). Aust. J. Ecol. 13: 445-450. Kavanagh, R. P. and Lambert, M. J. (1990). Food selection by the Greater Glider (Petauroides volans: is foliar nitrogen a detenninant ofhabitat quality? Aust. Wildl. Res. 17: 285-299. Forestry Commission ofNew South Wales Forest Resources Series No. 19 Fauna Survey, Wingham Management Area, -53- PortMacquarie Region Part 1. Mammals Kemper, C. (1983). New Holland Mouse. In The Australian Museum Complete Book ofAustralian Mammals. Strahan, R. ed. p.409. Angus and Robertson, Sydney. King, G. C. (1984). Habitat utilized by Pseudomys oralis Thomas (Rodentia:Muridae). Aust. Mammalogy 7: 139-147. Lindenmayer, D. B., Cunningham, R. B., Tanton, M. T. and Smith, A. P. (1990). The conservation of arboreal marsupials in the montane ash forests ofthe central highlands ofVictoria, Southeast Australia. 11. The loss oftrees with hollows and its implications for the conservation of Leadbeaters' Possum Gymnobelideus leadbeateri McCoy (Marsupialia : Petauridae). Bioi. Conserv.564: 133-145. Loyn, R. H., Macfarlane, M. A., Chesterfield, E. A. and Harris, J. A. (1980). Forest utilisation and the flora and fauna in Boola Boola Sate Forest in south-eastern Victoria. Forestry Commission of Victoria Bulletin No. 28: 1-80. Lunney, D. (1987). Effects oflogging, fire and drought on possums and gliders in the coastal forests nearBega, New South Wales. Aust. Wildl. Res. 14: 263-274. Lunney, D., Cullis, B. and Eby, P. (1987). Effects oflogging and fire on small mammals in Mumbulla State Forest, near Bega, New South Wales. Aust. Wildl. Res. 14: 163-171. Lunney, D. and Leary, T. (1987). The impact on native mammals ofland-use changes and exotic species inthe Bega District (New South Wales) since settlement. Aust. J. Ecol. 13: 67-92. Macfarlane, M. A. (1988). Mammal populations in Mountain Ash (Eucalyptus regnans) forests of various ages in the central highlands ofVictoria. Aust. For. 51: 14-27. Maynes, G. M. (1977). Distribution and aspects ofthe biology ofthe Parma Wallaby, Macropus parma, in New South Wales. Aust. J. Wildl. Res. 4: 109-205. Maynes, G. M. (1983). Parma Wallaby Macropus parma. In The Australian Museum Complete Book ofAustralian Mammals. Strahan, R. ed. pp. 230-231. Angus and Robertson, Sydney. Mcllroy, J. C. (1978). Effects offorestry practices on wildlife in Australia. Aust. For. 41: 78-96. McKay, G. M. (1983). Common Ringtail Possum. In The Australian Museum Complete Book of Australian Mammals. Strahan, R. ed. pp. 126-127. Angus and Robertson, Sydney. Poole, W. E. Common Wallaroo. In The Australian Museum Complete Book ofAustralian Mammals. R. Strahan ed. pp. 250-251. Angus and Robertson, Sydney. Read, D .G. (1992). Prescriptions for the identification ofhabitats ofthe Hastings River Mouse, Pseudomys oralis. Forestry Commission ofNew South Wales Technical Paper No. 58. (In Press). Read, D. G. and Fox, B. J. (1991). Assessing the habitat ofthe Parma Wallaby, Macropus parma (Marsupialia:Macropodidae). Wild/. Res. 18: 469-478. Recher, H. F., Rohan-Jones, W. and Smith, P. (1980). Effects ofthe Eden woodchip industry on terrestrial vertebrates with recommendations for management. Forestry Commission ofNew South Wales Research Note No. 42. Redhead, T. D. (1983). Fawn-footed Melomys. In The Australian Museum Complete Book of Australian Mammals. Strahan, R. ed. pp. 374-375. Angus and Robertson, Sydney. Ride, W. D. L. (1957). Protemnodon parma (Waterhouse) and the classification ofrelated wallabies (protemnodon, Thylogale, and Setonix). Proceedings ofthe Zoological Society London 128: 327-346. Forest Resources Series No. 19 Forestry Commission ofNew South Wales Fauna Survey, Wingham Management Area, Port Macquarie Region Part 1. Mammals . -54- Russell, R. (1983a). Yellow-bellied Glider. In The Australian Museum Complete Book ofAustralian Mammals. Strahan, R. ed. pp. 136-137. Angus and Robertson, Sydney. Russell, R. (1983b). Feathertail Glider. In The Australian Museum Complete Book ofAustralian Mammals. Strahan, R. ed. pp. 170-1. Angus and Robertson, Sydney. Shields, J. M. York, A. and Binns, D. (1991). Flora and fauna survey, Mt Royal Mangement Area, Newcastle Region. Forest Resources Series No. 16. Smith, A. (1982). Diet and feeding strategies ofthe marsupial Sugar Glider in temperate Australia. J. Animal. Ecol. 51: 149-166. Smith, A. (1991). An evaluation ofimpact mitigation measures for protection ofold growth fauna values in the Wingham Management Area. Austeco Pty. Ltd. October 1991. Smith, A. and Phillips, K. (1984). A systematic technique for census ofSugar Gliders and other small arboreal mammals. Aust. Wildl. Res. 11: 83-87. SPSS Inc. (1988). SPSSX User's Guide. McGraw Hill, Chicago. Steel, R. G. D. and Torrie, J. H. (1981). Principles and procedures ofstatistics. A biometrical approach. McGraw-Hill. Strahan, R. (1989). Representation ofsurvival status. In The Conservation ofThreatened Species and Their Habitats. Hicks, M. and Eiser, P. eds. pp. 109-115. Australian Committee for IUCN. Occasional Paper No. 2. Suckling, G. C. (1983). The Squirrel Glider. In The Australian Museum Complete Book of Australian Mammals. Strahan, R. ed. p. 140. Angus and Robertson, Sydney. Suckling, G. C. (1984). Population ecology ofthe Sugar Glider Petaurus breviceps in a system of fragmented habitats. Aust. Wildl. Res. 11: 49-75. Suckling, G. C. and Macfarlane, M.A. (1983). Introduction ofthe Sugar Glider Petaurus breviceps into re-established forest on the Tower Hill State Game Reserve, Victoria. Aust. Wildl. Res. 10: 249-258. Truyard Pty. Ltd. (1992). Environmental Impact Statement, Forestry Operations in the Wingham Management Area. Turner, B. (1983). Eastern Pygmy Possum. In The Australian Museum Complete Book ofAustralian Mammals. Strahan, R. ed. p.160. Angus and Robertson, Sydney. Turner, V. (1982). Marsupials as pollinators in Australia. In Pollination and Evolution. Annstrong, J.R., Powell, J.M. and Richards, AJ. eds. pp. 55-66. Royal Botanic Gardens, Sydney. Tyndale-Biscoe, C. H. and Calaby, J. H. (1975). Eucalypt forest as refuge for wildlife. Aust. For. 38: 117-133. Zar, lH. (1984). Biostatistical Analysis. Prentice-Hall. Forestry Commission ofNew South Wales Forest Resources Series No. 19 Fauna Survey, Wingham Management Area, -55- PortMacquarie Region Part 1. Mammals Unpublished Reports and Data Sources Oayton, M. (1992). Species list from limited sUlVey within Riamukka and Enfield State Forests, Walcha District. CSIRO Division ofWildlife and Ecology (unpubl. rep.). Dodkin, M. 1. (1980). Woko National Park proposal. National Parks and Wildlife SelVice ofNew South Wales, Taree. Griffith, S.J . (1989). Rainforest vegetation within and about Woko National Park and Camel's Hump Nature ReselVe. National Parks and Wildlife SelVice ofNew South Wales, Taiee (unpubl. rep.). Harden, R. and Robertshaw, J. (1985). Food items collected in scats collected from Werrikimbe National Park. National Parks and Wildlife SelVice ofNew South Wales, Annidale District (unpubl. rep.). Hines, H. (1991). Fauna sUlVeys results. Report submitted to the Forestry Commission ofNew South Wales in fulfillment ofconditions ofResearch Pennit Nos. 3645 and 3646. Read, D. G. (1988). SUlVeys for the Hastings River Mouse (Pseudomys oralis) in the Marengo, Hyland and Mount Royal State Forests. Report submitted in fulfullment ofconditions of Research Pennit No. 2874. Read, D. G. (1989). Captures ofthe Hastings River Mouse (Pseudomys oralis) in the Mount Royal State Forest. Report submitted in fulfullment ofconditions ofResearch Pennit No. 3617 and 3197. Scotts, D. (1992). Fauna list - Enfield State Forest. National Parks and Wildlife SelVice ofNew South Wales, Grafton (unpubl. rep.). York, A., Binns, D. and Shields, J. (1991). Flora and fauna assessment in New South Wales State Forests. SUlVey guidelines: procedures for sampling flora and fauna for Environmental Impact Statements. Version 1.1. Forestry Commission ofNew South Wales. Forest Resources Series No. 19 Forestry Commission ofNew South Wales Fauna Survey, Wingham Management Area, Port Macquarie Region Part 1. Mammals -56- Appendix 1. Floristic communities as derived from numerical classification ofsUlvey data (see Binns and Chapman, 1992). Overstorey Community Name Fauna Survey Code (Major Overstorey Species) Plot Code 1 Dry Rainforest (Backhousia sciadophora) 2 Wann temperate/Subtropical Rainforest RLH3, ~H4 (Sloanea woollsii - Ceratopetalum apetalum Doryphora sassafras) 3 Subtropical Rainforest (Argyrodendron actinophyllum) RLHS, RLL1, RLH1 4 Mixed Forest (Backhousia myrtifolia) 5 Wet Sclerophyll Forest (Lophostemon confertus) Mum, MOO7 (Lophostemon confertus - E. microcorys - E. saligna) MLL1, MLL3, MLL6 6 E. microcorys - E. acmenoides group DULl, DUL5 DUH1, DUH4, DUHS DUH6, DLH4, DLHS DLL1, DLL4, DLL5 MLL5, MUL2 7 E. saligna group MLH3, MLH4, MLHS MUL3, MUL7 8 Wet Sclerophyll Forest (Eucalyptus grandis) 9 Dry Coastal Hardwood group (Eucalyptus tereticornis) DLL3, DUL3, DUL7 MUH1 10 Eucalyptus resinijera group 11 Eucalyptus pilularis group DLH3, DLH6, MLH6 MUL5 12 Eucalyptus campanulata group (Eucalyptus campanulata) NLH3, NLH4, NUH1 NUHS, NUH6 (Eucalyptus campanulata - E. laevopinea) NLm, NLH6, NUm MUH5 13 Eucalyptus obliqua group Forestry Commission ofNew South Wales Forest Resources Series No. 19 Fauna Survey, Wingham Management Area. -57- PortMacquarie Region Part 1. Mammals Appendix 2. List ofknown mammal fauna for the region. Scientific Name Common Name Information Source 123456789 ORNITHORHYNCHIDAE Ornithorhyneus anatinus Platypus ++ + TACHYGLOSSIDAE Taehyglossus aculeatus Echidna ++ + DASYURIDAE : Carnivorous marsupials Dasyurus maeulatus Spotted-tailed Quoll ++ ++ Phaseogale tapoataja Brush-tailed Phascogale + + Anteehinusjlavipes Yellow-footed Antechinus + Anteehinus stuartii Brown Antechinus +++++++++++ Anteehinus swainsonii Dusky Antechinus ++ Planigale maeulata Common Planigale + PERAMELIDAE : Bandicoots Isoodon macrourus Northern Brown Bandicoot ++ + +++ Perameles nasuta Long-nosed Bandicoot ++ +++ PHASCOLARCTIDAE : Koala Phaseolaretos cinereus Koala ++ ++ ++ VOMBATIDAE : Wombat Vombatus ursinus Common Wombat + + ++ PETAURlDAE: Ringtails and Larger Gliders Petaurus australis Yellow-bellied Glider + ++ + Petaurus brevieeps Sugar Glider +++ ++ Petaurus norjoleensis Squirrel Glider + Petauroides volans Greater Glider +++ ++ +++ Pseudoeheirus peregrinus Ring-tailed Possum ++++ ++ +++ PHALANGERIDAE : Brushtails Triehosurus eaninus Mountain Brushtail Possum +++ ++ +++ Triehosurus vulpeeula Common Brushtail Possum ++++ ++ ++ BURRAMYIDAE : Pygmy Possums and Feathertail Gliders Aerobates pygmaeus Feathertail Glider ++ ++ Cereartetus nanus Eastern Pygmy Possum + POTOROIDAE : Potoroos and Rat-Kangaroos Potorous tridaetylus Long-nosed Potoroo + + +++ MACROPODIDAE: Kangaroos and Wallabies Maeropus giganteus Eastern Grey Kangaroo + +++ Maeropus robustus Wallaroo + ++ Maeropus parma Panna Wallaby ++ + + + Maeropus rufogriseus Red-necked Wallaby ++++ + +++ Thylogale stigmatiea Red-legged Pademelon + + Thylogale thetis Red-necked Pademelon ++++ + + + Wallabia bieolor Swamp Wallaby ++++ ++ +++ Forest Resources Series No. 19 Forestry Commission ofNew South Wales Fauna Survey, Wingham Management Area, Port Macquarie Region Part 1. Mammals -58- Appendix 2. (cont). Scientific Name Common Name Infonnation Source 123456789 MURIDAE : Mice and Rats Melomys cervinipes Fawn-footed Melomys +++++ +++ Pseudomys novaehollandiae New Holland Mouse + Pseudomys oralis Hastings River Mouse + Rattus juscipes Southern Bush Rat +++++++++ Rattus lutreolus Swamp Rat + ++ Rattus rattus Black Rat + + Mus musculus House Mouse + + LEPORIDAE : Hares and Rabbits Oryctolagus cuniculus Rabbit ++ ++ CANIDAE: Dogs Canisjamiliaris dingo Dingo/Feral Dog ++ + ++ Vulpes vulpes Fox + + + FELIDAE: Cats Felis catus Feral Cat + + ++ EQUIDAE : Horses Equus caballus Brumby/Wild Horse + SUIDAE : Pigs Sus scrofa Feral Pig + BOVIDAE : Cattle and Goats Bos taurus Feral Cattle + + ++ Capra hircus Feral Goat + Infonnation Source: 1. Woko National Park - Griffith (1989) and Dodkin (1980) 2. Werrikimbe National Park - National Parks and Wildlife Service ofNew South Wales Checklist. 3. Boorganna Nature Reserve - National Parks and Wildlife Service ofNew South Wales Checklist dated 28 October-5 November, 1976 4. Chichester State Forest - Hines (1991) 5. Doyles River State Forest - Hines (1991) 6. Mt. Seaview Nature Reserve - National Parks and Wildlife Service ofNew South Wales Checklist 7. Wingham Management Area - Smith (1991) 8. Werrikimbe National Park - Harden and Robertshaw (1985) 9. Identified from this survey Forestry Commission ofNew South Wales Forest Resources Series No. 19 Fauna Survey, Wingham Management Area, -59- PortMacquarie Region Part 1. Mammals Appendix 3. Details ofroad survey transects. Transect Location Species Observed Nos. Broad Forest Types 1 Compartments 308-312 Greater Glider 59 NLH Pablo Road 2 . Myrtle Scmb Rd Greater Glider 42 NLH, MLH, RLH Highway to Lyle Rd. Mountain Bmshtail Possum 3 Common Ringtail Possum 1 3 Lyle/Myrtle Scmb Rd Greater Glider 46 NLH,NUH - Private Property Mountain Brushtail Possum 1 north 5 km Common Bmshtail Possum 1 4 Grassy Ridge Rd - Greater Glider 18 NUH,NLH Knob above Cells Common Brushtail Possum 2 Creek north 6 Old Highway/ferrimiah Greater Glider 6 DLH, MLH, NLH Link/ferrimiah/Goanna Common Brushtail Possum 2 /DebRoads 7 North Causeway Rd Common Ringtail Possum 7 RLH to DebRd Mountain Brushtail Possum 6 Greater Glider 3 8 Tirrill Creek Rd - Greater Glider 10 RLH (Loop Road to Common Ringtail Possum 6 Grebers Rd) Mountain Brushtail Possum 2 Koala 1 Yellow-bellied Glider 1 9 Sonnys Rd from Greater Glider 14 MLH Blue Mountain Creek Common Ringtail Possum 5 RdILoopRd Mountain Brushtail Possum 1 Sugar Glider 1 10 Frenchs Creek Rd - Greater Glider 9 DLH,MLH from Knodingbul Rd Mountain Brushtail Possum 2 11 Blue Knob/fhroughcut Greater Glider 19 MLH /Lewis Rds Common Ringtail Possum 2 Koala 1 14 Homewoods west Greater Glider 13 DUH Common Bmshtail Possum 9 15 Potoroo Rd - Dingo Mountain Brushtail Possum 1 MLL Tops Rd to Rusty Rd Common Ringtail Possum 1 16 Circle Rd / Betts Greater Glider 9 MLH, NLH, DLH Ridge Common Ringtail Possum 1 Yellow-bellied Glider 1 Forest Resources Series No. 19 Forestry Commission ofNew South Wales Fauna Survey, Wingham Management Area, Port Macquarie Region Part 1. Mammals -60- Appendix 3. (cont). Transect Location Species Observed Nos. Broad Forest Types 17 Betts/Circle!Rowleys/ Greater Glider 6 DLH CorriesRds 18 Dingo Tops Rd - Greater Glider 2 MLH,NLH, Hardway Creek Rd/ Common Brushtail Possum 1 someDLH Boot Hill Yellow-bellied Glider 1 19 Murrays Creek Rd/ Common Brushtail Possum 5 DLL Big Murrays/Little Greater Glider 2 Wild Cattle Creek Rd Mountain Brushtail Possum 2 Common Ringtail Possum 1 Koala 1 Yellow-bellied Glider 1 21 Compartment 86 Rd Greater Glider 2 MLL,MLH 22 Blue Mountain Creek Greater Glider 10 MLH,DLH Rd from Knodingbul Mountain Brushtail Possum 2 southernjunction Yellow-bellied Glider 2 Common Ringtail Possum 1 23 Homewoods Rd/ Greater Glider 8 DLH, MUH,'DUH 157 Trail 24 Western Boundary Rd Common Brushtail Possum 5 DLL,DLH Greater Glider 2 25 Knodingbul Rd - Greater Glider 5 MLH, NLH. NUH, north from Potoroo Rd Koala 4 MUH For defInition ofBroad Forest Types, refer to Survey Methodology section, part 1b. Forestry Commission ofNew South Wales Forest Resources Series No. 19