Download Bird Island Biodiversity Action Plan

2014
Bird Island Biodiversity
Action Plan
EAC – Ecological Evaluation Pty Ltd
June 2014
Document Information
Client
Issue Date
Version
Author
Title
Adelaide & Mt Lofty Ranges Natural
Resources Management Board
12/9/2014
2.3
Tim Milne
Director
Signature
Verified by
Title
Sarah Telfer
Director
Signature
Document History
Version
1.0
2.0
2.1
2.2
2.3
Issue Date
20/6/2014
4/7/2014
21/7/14
24/7/14
12/9/14
EAC – Ecological Evaluation Pty Ltd have prepared this report for the sole purposes of the Client for the specific
purpose only for which it is supplied. We accept no liability for any direct or consequential loss arising from
the transmission of this information to third parties. This report is current at the date of writing only and EAC
– Ecological Evaluation Pty Ltd will not be responsible for informing of any future changes in circumstances
which may affect the accuracy of the information contained in this report. EAC – Ecological Evaluation Pty Ltd
does not offer or hold itself out as offering any advice relating to legal or regulatory implications.
Certain assumptions have been made in the preparation of this report. We have assumed that all information
and documents provided to us by the Client or as a result of a specific request or enquiry were complete,
accurate and up-to-date. Where we have obtained information from a government register or database, we
have assumed that the information is accurate. Where an assumption has been made, we have not made any
independent investigations with respect to the matters the subject of that assumption. We are not aware of
any reason why any of the assumptions are incorrect.
EAC- Ecological Evaluation Pty Ltd
5/26 Hack St
Mount Barker, South Australia 5251
Telephone: (08) 8185 3225
[email protected]
E c o l o g i c a l
E v a l u a t i o n
Contents
Executive Summary............................................................................................................................... 4
1.
INTRODUCTION ............................................................................................................................. 1
2.
STUDY AREA .................................................................................................................................. 2
2.1
Current land management .................................................................................................... 3
2.2
Brief History of Bird Island .................................................................................................... 3
2.3
Biodiversity significance ........................................................................................................ 9
3.
AIM AND OBJECTIVES OF THE PLAN ............................................................................................ 10
4.
ENVIRONMENTAL ASSETS ........................................................................................................... 10
4.1
Landform and soils .............................................................................................................. 10
4.2
Native vegetation communities .......................................................................................... 10
4.2.1
Sarcocornia sp. / Tecticornia sp. / Sueda australis low closed shrubland .................... 10
4.2.2
Sarcocornia sp. / Tecticornia sp. low closed shrubland with emergent Avicennia
marina ssp. marina ..................................................................................................................... 13
5.
4.2.3
Atriplex cinerea / Nitraria billardierei Open Shrubland ............................................... 14
4.2.4
Atriplex cinerea / Nitraria billardierei / Lycium ferocissimum Shrubland .................... 16
4.3
Significant Flora Species ...................................................................................................... 17
4.4
Native Fauna ....................................................................................................................... 18
4.4.1
Birds ............................................................................................................................ 18
4.4.2
Reptiles and Frogs ....................................................................................................... 20
4.4.3
Mammals .................................................................................................................... 20
4.4.4
Fish .............................................................................................................................. 20
4.4.5
Intertidal Invertebrates ............................................................................................... 21
THREATS (MANAGEMENT ISSUES) .............................................................................................. 21
5.1
Predation of birds and their nests by pest animals ............................................................. 21
5.2
Recreational activities ......................................................................................................... 22
5.3
Invasive weeds .................................................................................................................... 23
5.4
Over-proliferation of Silver Gulls......................................................................................... 24
5.6
Marine pollution ................................................................................................................. 24
5.6
Lack of cadastral status ....................................................................................................... 26
5.7
Dredge spoil deposition from dredging of the Outer Harbor Channel ................................ 26
5.8
Climate change.................................................................................................................... 26
6.
MANAGEMENT OBJECTIVES AND ACTIONS ................................................................................ 27
6.1
Biodiversity management objectives .................................................................................. 27
6.2
Biodiversity management actions ....................................................................................... 27
6.2.1
Managing pest animals ................................................................................................... 27
6.2.2
Managing recreational impacts ....................................................................................... 27
6.2.3
Managing weeds ............................................................................................................. 29
6.2.3.1
Samphire Shrubland Communities .............................................................................. 30
6.2.3.2
Atriplex cinerea / Nitraria billardierei Open Shrubland ............................................... 30
6.2.3.3
Atriplex cinerea / Nitraria billardierei / Lycium ferocissimum Shrubland .................... 30
6.2.4
Rubbish/debris removal .................................................................................................. 30
6.2.5
Dredge spoil deposition from dredging of the Outer Harbor Channel ............................ 30
6.2.6
Maintaining open habitat areas ...................................................................................... 31
6.2.7
Revegetation ................................................................................................................... 31
7.
COMMUNITY INVOLVEMENT ...................................................................................................... 32
8.
MONITORING .............................................................................................................................. 33
9.
8.1
Monitoring Pest Animals ..................................................................................................... 33
8.2
Monitoring of Native Vegetation Extent and Condition ...................................................... 33
8.3
Monitoring Seabird and Wader Populations ....................................................................... 33
8.4
Plan implementation – progress reporting ......................................................................... 34
BIODIVERSITY ACTION PLAN ....................................................................................................... 35
Appendix 1: BushRAT monitoring data ............................................................................................... 39
Sarcocornia sp. / Tecticornia sp. / Sueda australis low closed shrubland ....................................... 41
Sarcocornia sp. / Tecticornia sp. low closed shrubland with emergent Avicennia marina ssp.
marina ............................................................................................................................................ 43
Atriplex cinerea / Nitraria billardierei Open Shrubland ................................................................... 45
Atriplex cinerea / Nitraria billardierei / Lycium ferocissimum Shrubland ........................................ 48
Appendix 2: Notes on birds in the Outer Harbor Area (adapted from Telfer 2013) ............................ 51
Appendix 3: Weed control methods ................................................................................................... 66
Appendix 4: Works record sheets ....................................................................................................... 74
Executive Summary
Bird Island (also known as Section Banks) is situated at the northern end of the Outer Harbor
breakwater. It is an exposed artificial island made of coarse shell-grit, clay and sand that extends for
approximately 1600m. It has been created by a combination of anthropogenic and natural
processes.
Bird Island provides significant habitat values for many bird species, including seabirds and waders of
state, national and international conservation significance. Ten native bird species have been
observed to breed on the island, with another three species considered to possibly breed there. Of
this total of 13 native breeding species, three are considered to be Rare at a state level - Kelp Gull,
Pied Oystercatcher and Sooty Oystercatcher, and the fourth species, the Fairy Tern, is Endangered at
State level and Vulnerable at a national level. The tidal flats around Bird Island are rich in
invertebrates, adding to the value for the area for seabirds.
The vegetation of the island is composed of both native and introduced weed species. The
vegetation varies from areas dominated by introduced species, to areas where native species
predominate. Time series photography indicates that samphire and mangrove vegetation has
colonised the eastern side of the Island in the last ten years.
The Island, and particularly its significant vagrant, resident and breeding bird species, is exposed to a
number of threats. Key threats include:







the impact of introduced pests, such as black rats and foxes;
unmanaged human visitation, particularly when associated with uncontrolled pet dogs
invasive weeds
overproliferation of native Silver Gulls and their impacts on other bird species
marine pollution
possible future dredging and spoil deposition
loss of open habitat areas favorable for nesting for some bird species
A series of management actions are proposed to maintain or improve the biodiversity values on the
Island. These include:








controlling pest animals
managing recreational impacts
restricting access of pet dogs
treating priority weeds, whilst recognising the roosting values provided by some species
replacing weedy shrub species with native shrubs
monitoring growth of vegetation with removal (if required) to ensure some open habitat
areas remain
removing rubbish and debris
increasing community awareness of the significance of Bird Island
A Biodiversity Action Plan table has been developed which summarises the actions required,
provides specific targets, and links to an ongoing monitoring program that can document success.
1. INTRODUCTION
Bird Island (also known as the Northern Breakwater/Revetment or Section Banks) is situated at the
northern end of the Outer Harbor breakwater. It is an exposed artificial island made of coarse shellgrit, clay and sand that extends for approximately 1600m. It has been colonised by indigenous local
plant species and introduced weedy species. The island also forms a significant roost and feeding
site for both migratory and non-migratory shorebirds, and is a breeding rookery for seabirds,
including Australian Pelican and the endangered Fairy Tern. As such, it has high inherent biodiversity
values, and provides habitat for bird species of national and international significance.
The intent of this project is to develop a Biodiversity Action Plan which documents the significant
biodiversity assets of the Island, threats to these assets, and develops practical and pragmatic
actions to ameliorate these threats. An ongoing monitoring program to evaluate success of
proposed actions will also be devised.
The Biodiversity Action Plan includes:









mapping of different vegetation associations
inventory of plant species present
inventory of actual and potential habitat for native species, with a focus on species of
conservation significance at state, national and international level
mapping pest plant distribution and density
prioritising weeds for control
an assessment of the presence of pest animals
identification of priority issues relating to human activity/usage
identification of actions necessary to improve the conservation, management and protection
of the Island
baseline monitoring and a description of an ongoing monitoring methodology to measure
success of management actions
The Bird Island Biodiversity Action Plan is intended to align with, and contribute to, the objectives of
the following strategies and plans:



The Adelaide and Mount Lofty Ranges Natural Resources Management Plan (2013) which
outlines the Adelaide and Mt Lofty Ranges NRM Board's investment priorities over a threeyear period. This includes the establishment of long-term goals and clearly defined targets.
The Metropolitan Adelaide and Northern Coastal Action Plan 2009. The goal of this Plan is to
understand and facilitate the conservation, protection and maintenance of the region’s
natural coastal resources and to establish conservation priorities for places and areas within
the Region. The Plan includes a regional recommendation on Conserving Valuable Areas,
with an objective: To raise the conservation status and management investment in selected
significant areas within the region. A specific action is identified: To facilitate management of
the Section Banks through clarification of its status.
The Regional Recovery Plan for Threatened Species and Ecological Communities of Adelaide
and the Mount Lofty Ranges 2009-2014.



Adelaide Dolphin Sanctuary Management Plan Objectives
Wildlife Conservation Plan for Migratory Shorebirds (2006)
Proposal for the Adelaide International Bird Sanctuary. Surveys indicate the importance of
the island as a roost site for migratory shorebirds and adjacent tidal flats of Section Bank
have high species richness of shorebird food species.
2. STUDY AREA
Bird Island is located in the Port River, approximately 15km northwest of Adelaide. It is at the
northern end of the Northern Revetment mound (a rock breakwater) about 700 m offshore from
Outer Harbor. This Biodiversity Action Plan also incorporates the area known as the Northern
Revetment, which is the northernmost section of the north Outer Harbor breakwater (Figure 2.0).
Figure 2.0: Bird Island Study Area
Page 2
2.1 Current land management
The Island and the surrounding seabed and intertidal area are owned freehold by the Minister for
Transport and Infrastructure by virtue of the Harbors and Navigation Act 1993. The southern portion
of this island is under the long term control of Flinders Ports by way of a Port Operating Agreement
that expires in 2100. The northern portion of the island is not covered by the Port Operating
Agreement and management responsibility is with the Minister for Transport and Infrastructure.
2.2 Brief History of Bird Island
Outer Harbor was constructed in the early 1900s and opened to shipping in 19081. The northern
breakwater, consisting of jarrah piles and huge stone blocks, was completed in 1913 2, although was
increased in height by two metres in 19623. Bird Island was created from sediment dredged from
the Port River and deposited to the north of the northern revetment in about 1976 4. At that time the
Section Bank was separated from the northern revetment by about 160 m, but the two are now
joined.
Cooe (2008)5 noted “The loss of extensive areas of seagrass along the Adelaide metropolitan coast
has caused the mobilisation of exposed sediment. Resuspended sediment moves northwards and is
deposited on sand banks (such as Section Bank [Bird Island]) off Outer Harbor and the northern
beaches”. As such Bird Island is slowly growing to the north-east as this sediment accumulates.
Vincent (1988) noted the Island was only 900m long in 1987, but its current length is approximately
1.6 km from the northern revetment to the north east, with a vegetated width of up to 200 metres.
This near doubling in length of Section Banks in the last 30 years has resulted both from channel
dredging and dumping, as well as accumulation of sediments driven north along the coast by wave
energy and the northerly littoral or longshore current.
Bird Island has been colonised by coastal plants, particularly Nitre-bush Nitraria billardierei and
Coast Saltbush Atriplex cinerea on higher ground, with Australian seablite Suaeda australis and
samphire Sarcocornia quinqueflora (and seedling mangroves Avicennia marina) on finer sediments
on the eastern side6.
Figures 2.2.1 to 2.2.5 show the historical changes that have occurred to the site from the late 1960’s
1
Ritter, R. (2005). Triumph, Tragedy and Port Adelaide. Hyde Park Press.
Ritter, R. (2005). Triumph, Tragedy and Port Adelaide. Hyde Park Press.
3
Vincent, D. 1988. Nesting of the Kelp Gull and other new breeding records from Outer Harbor.
South Australian Ornithologist 30: 122-24.
4
Ritter, R. (2005). Triumph, Tragedy and Port Adelaide. Hyde Park Press.
5
Cooe. 2008. Marine and Coastal Environment and Potential Impact Assessment. Report prepared for Walker
Corporation.
6
Carpenter, G. (2008), Birds of the Section Bank, Outer Harbor. A report prepared by G. Carpenter for Coast
and Marine Branch, Department of Environment and Heritage, June 2008.
2
Page 3
Figure 2.2.1: Aerial photography 9/1/1969. There is some sand accumulation at the end of the
breakwater, but Bird Island does not exist in its current location. The northern revetment does
not exist.
Figure 2.2.2: Aerial photography 19/3/1979. There appears to have been deposition of
materials to create a wall from the northern end of the breakwater. There appears to be
some vegetation present. Nitre Bush (Nitraria billardieri) was planted around this time (Greg
Johnston pers. comm.).
Figure 2.2.3: Aerial photography 28/9/1989. The wall of deposited material appears to have
been washed away. Bird Island is isolated from the northern breakwater. Vegetation is
evident.
Figure 2.2.4: Aerial photography 6/10/1999. The northern revetment has been created which
joins Bird Island to the northern breakwater. The Island is increasing in size to the north, with
vegetation developing in this newly formed area.
Page 5
Figure 2.2.5: Aerial photography 24/1/2005. There is continued development of vegetation on
the northern end of Bird Island, as well as expansion north eastwards.
Figure 2.2.6: Aerial photography 2013. Note samphire vegetation developing on the eastern
side (brown-red in colour) and continued expansion north eastwards.
Page 6
2.3
Biodiversity significance
Populations of shorebirds (also known as ‘waders’) appear to be declining throughout the world.
Section Banks / Bird Island has been identified as a significant area for several shorebird species and
also supports regular breeding populations of 4 resident shorebirds as well as several waterbird and
tern species 7. It is one of seven priority habitats on the eastern Gulf St Vincent with one or more
species in internationally or nationally significant numbers 7. Carpenter (2008) noted: “The Section
Bank and adjoining revetment have significant value as a habitat for waterbirds, particularly:
1. as a nesting site for ground nesting colonial species (Australian Pelicans, Black-faced Cormorants,
Australian White Ibis, Royal Spoonbill, Fairy, Crested and Caspian Terns), and;
2. as a safe high tide roost for migratory and non-migratory waders. Its value as a roost reflects the
productivity of the adjacent tidal flats of Barker Inlet as a feeding habitat for these birds. Numbers
of migratory waders are greatest in summer, although significant numbers (mostly immature birds)
may remain over winter. Numbers of non-migratory waders fluctuate according to conditions
elsewhere, particularly inland floods. “
The large open mudflats on Section Bank provide some protection from raptors, contributing to
favourable habitat conditions for shorebirds8. Based on invertebrate surveys, Section Bank also has
some of the most species-rich tidal flats in the northern region. About 90 taxa found in total, being
highest on Section Bank and in particular zones of single sites. Molluscs, Annelida and Crustacea
accounted for the majority of the species9.
In addition, Johnston and Wiebkin10 note the northern revetment at Outer Harbor has “the largest
breeding colony of the endemic Black-faced cormorant, with up to 6000 nests recorded during the
winter breeding season”. The nesting colonies for Black-faced Cormorant, Royal Spoonbill, Fairy
Tern and Australian Pelican are significant at State level 11.
Purnell et al (2013) recommend “The significant refuge habitat on Section Banks should be secured
and optimised by increasing pest control and reducing recreational visitation12.”
7
Purnell, C., Peter, J., Clemens, R. (2013). Shorebird Population Monitoring within Gulf St Vincent: July 2011 to
June 2012 Annual Report. BirdLife Australia report for the Adelaide and Mount Lofty Ranges Natural Resources
Management Board and the Department of the Environment, Water, Heritage and the Arts
8
Dittmann, S., Baggalley, S., J. Keuning and Imgraben, S. (2012). Mudflat Condition Monitoring in Gulf St
Vincent. Final Report for the Adelaide and Mount Lofty Ranges Natural Resources Management Board.
9
Dittmann, S., Baggalley, S., J. Keuning and Imgraben, S. (2012). Mudflat Condition Monitoring in Gulf St
Vincent. Final Report for the Adelaide and Mount Lofty Ranges Natural Resources Management Board.
10
Johnston, G. and Wiebkin, A. (2008). Birds of Gulf St Vincent. In “Natural history of Gulf St Vincent”. S. A.
Shepherd, S. Bryars, I. Kirkegaard, P. Harbison and J. T. Jennings (eds). Royal Society of South Australia,
Adelaide. pp. 324-338.
11
Johnston, G., Close, D. and Carpenter, G. (2010). Birds of Section bank and the Revetment Mound at Outer
Harbour, South Australia. Unpublished.
12
Purnell, C., Peter, J., Clemens, R. (2013). Shorebird Population Monitoring within Gulf St Vincent: July 2011
to June 2012 Annual Report. BirdLife Australia report for the Adelaide and Mount Lofty Ranges Natural
Resources Management Board and the Department of the Environment, Water, Heritage and the Arts
Page 9
3. AIM AND OBJECTIVES OF THE PLAN
The aim of the Biodiversity Action Plan for Bird Island is to document the significant biodiversity
assets of the Island, threats to these assets, and to develop practical and pragmatic actions to
ameliorate these threats, based on an understanding of resources available. An ongoing monitoring
program to evaluate success of proposed actions is also included.
4. ENVIRONMENTAL ASSETS
4.1
Landform and soils
Bird Island has been created by two processes – deposition of silty material in the late 1970’s from
material dredged from the Outer Harbor channel, and accumulation of sediments driven north along
the coast by wave energy and the northerly littoral or longshore current. As such, the soils present
are silt, particularly in the southern and landward sides of the Island, and sands which are present on
the seaward and northern sides and overlie the silt in some places.
4.2
Native vegetation communities
The vegetation of Bird Island is defined by soil types, exposure to the sea, and time since deposition.
It can be broadly categorised into coastal dune, samphire and mangrove communities. The
following section describes the vegetation types found on site, which are also shown in Figure 4.2.
Note that plant species lists are based upon a once-off visit only. A comprehensive list would require
visiting the site on multiple occasions to take into account seasonal and rainfall related variability.
Each vegetation community was also assessed using the Department for Environment Water and
Natural Resources “BushRAT” methodology, with results summarised in Appendix 1.
4.2.1
Sarcocornia sp. / Tecticornia sp. / Sueda australis low closed shrubland
This low closed samphire shrubland occurs in the eastern, sheltered side of Bird Island (Figure 4.2).
It is essentially weed free, with a high cover of native samphire species. Identification to species
level was not possible for all samphires due to the timing of the one-off visit on which this plant
species list was based.
Table 4.2.1.1: Plant species present in the Sarcocornia sp. / Tecticornia sp. / Sueda australis low closed shrubland
Species Name
Common Name
Sarcocornia quinqueflora
Suaeda australis
Tecticornia sp.
Beaded Glasswort
Austral Seablite
Conservation
Status
AUS SA
SL
Comment
Page 10
Figure 4.2.1.1: Sarcocornia sp. / Tecticornia sp. / Sueda australis low closed shrubland
Page 11
4.2.1: Sarcocornia sp. / Tecticornia sp. / Sueda australis low closed shrubland
4.2.2: Sarcocornia sp. / Tecticornia sp. low closed shrubland with emergent Avicennia marina
4.2.3: Atriplex cinerea / Nitraria billardierei Open Shrubland
4.2.4: Atriplex cinerea / Nitraria billardierei / Lycium ferocissimum Shrubland
Figure 4.2: Vegetation Communities of Bird Island
Page 12
4.2.2 Sarcocornia sp. / Tecticornia sp. low closed shrubland with emergent Avicennia
marina ssp. marina
This vegetation type borders much of the sheltered eastern side of Bird Island (Figure 4.2), generally
on the boundary between samphire communities of 4.1.1 and marine environments. It is essentially
weed free, with a high cover of native samphire species, and emergent young Mangroves (Avicennia
marina ssp. marina). Identification to species level was not possible for all samphires due to the
timing of the one-off visit on which this plant species list was based. The first permanent mangroves
were noted in this area in 2005 (Greg Johnston pers. obs.). Whilst not extensive at this stage,
ongoing expansion of this mangrove may be a management issue. This is because expansion may
pose a threat to shorebird habitat in Gulf St Vincent, with incursion by mangroves occurring in many
coastal areas. The expansion of mangroves can limit the availability of the open spaces that
shorebirds use for roosting and feeding. Shorebirds prefer the security of open spaces with high
visibility for the easy detection of approaching predators 13.
Figure 4.2.2.1: Sarcocornia sp. / Tecticornia sp. low closed shrubland with emergent Avicennia marina ssp. marina
13
Purnell, C., Peter, J., Clemens, R. (2013). Shorebird Population Monitoring within Gulf St Vincent: July 2011
to June 2012 Annual Report. BirdLife Australia report for the Adelaide and Mount Lofty Ranges Natural
Resources Management Board and the Department of the Environment, Water, Heritage and the Arts.
Page 13
Table 4.2.2.1: Plant species present in the Sarcocornia sp. / Tecticornia sp. low closed shrubland with emergent
Avicennia marina ssp. marina
Species Name
Common Name
Avicennia marina ssp. marina
Sarcocornia quinqueflora
Tecticornia sp.
Mangrove
Beaded Glasswort
4.2.3
Conservation
Status
AUS SA
SL
Comment
Atriplex cinerea / Nitraria billardierei Open Shrubland
This open shrubland occurs in northern, sand-based soils of Bird Island. In some parts the shrubland
is very open. Woody weeds are relatively sparse, and there is a moderate to good diversity of
native plant species.
Figure 4.2.3.1: Atriplex cinerea / Nitraria billardierei Open Shrubland
Table 4.2.3.1: Plant species present in the Atriplex cinerea / Nitraria billardierei Open Shrubland
Species Name
Common Name
Atriplex cinerea
Atriplex semibaccata
Grey Saltbush
Creeping Saltbush
Conservation
Status
AUS SA
SL
Comment
Page 14
Species Name
Common Name
Austrostipa sp.
Carpobrotus rossii
Enchylaena tomentosa var.
tomentosa
Myoporum insulare
Nitraria billardierei
Sarcocornia quinqueflora
Senecio pinnatifolius var.
pinnatifolius
Senecio quadridentatus
Suaeda australis
Threlkeldia diffusa
Speargrass
Karkalla
Conservation
Status
AUS SA
SL
Comment
Barrier Saltbush
Native Juniper
Dillon Bush
Beaded Glasswort
Cotton Fireweed
Austral Seablite
Coast Bonefruit
Table 4.2.3.2: Weed species present in the Atriplex cinerea / Nitraria billardierei Open Shrubland
Species Name
Common Name
Cover
Ammophila arenaria
Arctotheca calendula
Cakile maritima ssp. maritima
Conyza bonariensis
Euphorbia paralias
Galenia pubescens var.
pubescens
Lycium ferocissimum
Mesembryanthemum
crystallinum
Solanum nigrum
Sonchus oleraceus
Marram Grass
Cape Dandelion
Beach Rocket
Tall Fleabane
Sea Spurge
1
1a
3
1
1
Galenia
African Boxthorn
1
1a
Iceplant
Black-berry Nightshade
Milk Thistle
1a
1
1a
Cover Rating
not many, cover <1%
Plentiful, cover <1%
Covering 1 - 5%
Covering 5 – 25%
Covering 26 –50%
Covering 51 – 75%
Covering > 75%
Comment
Mostly at southern end
1
1a
2
3
4
5
6
Page 15
4.2.4
Atriplex cinerea / Nitraria billardierei / Lycium ferocissimum Shrubland
This shrubland is found in the southern portions of Bird Island. It is principally on silty soils, or sand
over silt. Boxthorns (Lycium ferocissimum) are prevalent, and the understorey is heavily weed
invaded by species such as Beach Rocket (Cakile maritima ssp. maritima), Galenia (Galenia
pubescens var. pubescens), Marshmallow (Malva parviflora) and Stinging Nettle (Urtica urens).
Figure 4.2.4.1: Atriplex cinerea / Nitraria billardierei / Lycium ferocissimum Shrubland
Table 4.2.4.1: Plant species present in the Atriplex cinerea / Nitraria billardierei / Lycium ferocissimum Shrubland
Species Name
Common Name
Atriplex cinerea
Carpobrotus rossii
Enchylaena tomentosa var.
tomentosa
Ficinia nodosa
Myoporum insulare
Grey Saltbush
Karkalla
Conservation
Status
AUS SA
SL
Comment
Barrier Saltbush
Knobby Club-sedge
Native Juniper
Page 16
Species Name
Common Name
Nitraria billardierei
Sarcocornia quinqueflora
Senecio pinnatifolius var.
pinnatifolius
Dillon Bush
Beaded Glasswort
Conservation
Status
AUS SA
SL
Comment
Table 4.2.4.2: Weed species present in the Atriplex cinerea / Nitraria billardierei / Lycium ferocissimum Shrubland
Species Name
Common Name
Ammophila arenaria
Arctotheca calendula
Atriplex prostrata
Cakile maritima ssp. maritima
Chenopodium murale
Euphorbia paralias
Galenia pubescens var.
pubescens
Lycium ferocissimum
Malva parviflora
Mesembryanthemum
crystallinum
Oxalis pes-caprae
Reichardia tingitana
Urtica urens
Marram Grass
Cape Dandelion
Creeping Saltbush
Beach Rocket
Sowbane
Sea Spurge
1a
1a
2
2
1a
1a
Galenia
African Boxthorn
Marshmallow
4
3
2
Iceplant
Soursop
Reichardia
Stinging Nettle
3
1
1a
1a
Cover Rating
not many, cover <1%
Plentiful, cover <1%
Covering 1 - 5%
Covering 5 – 25%
Covering 26 –50%
Covering 51 – 75%
Covering > 75%
4.3
Cover
Comment
1
1a
2
3
4
5
6
Significant Flora Species
No significant flora species were noted at the time of inspection. To confirm if threatened flora
species were present would require visiting the site on multiple occasions to take into account
seasonal and rainfall related variability.
Page 17
4.4
Native Fauna
4.4.1
Birds
Bird Island provides a safe haven for numerous local and migratory bird species, due to restricted
access to the Island. Table 5, adapted from Carpenter (2008) and Johnston et al (2010), summarises
birds known from the Island, along with their conservation status and breeding and visitation status.
Ten native bird species have been observed to breed on the island, with another three species
considered to possibly breed there. Of this total of 13 native breeding species, three are considered
to be Rare at a state level - Kelp Gull, Pied Oystercatcher and Sooty Oystercatcher, and the fourth
species, the Fairy Tern, is Endangered at State level and Vulnerable at a national level. In addition to
these breeding species, a further 61 species have been noted using the island or adjoining tidal flats
and waterways as habitat, including thirteen species of state conservation significance, and the
Southern Giant-Petrel (Macronectes giganteus) which is considered to be nationally Endangered and
Vulnerable at a state level.
The tidal flats adjacent to Bird Island provide significant habitat for wading birds covered under the
‘Japan- Australia Migratory Bird Agreement’ (JAMBA) and ‘China Australia Migratory Bird
Agreement’ (CAMBA). Species covered by these agreements are noted in Table 5.
Table 5: List of Birds known from Bird Island and surrounding flats (adapted from Carpenter 2008 and Johnston et al
14
2010 )
COMMON NAME
Arctic Jaeger
Australasian Gannet
Australian Hobby
Australian Pelican
Australian White Ibis
Australian Shelduck
Banded Stilt
Bar-tailed Godwit
Black-faced Cormorant
SCIENTIFIC NAME
Stercorarius parasiticus
Morus serrator
Falco longipennis
Pelecanus conspicillatus
Threskiornis molucca
Tadorna tadornoides
Cladorhynchus
leucocephalus
Limosa lapponica
Phalacrocorax
fuscescens
Black-shouldered Kite
Black-winged Stilt
Black Swan
Elanus axillaris
Himantopus himantopus
Cygnus atratus
Brown Falcon
Falco berigora
Cereopsis
novaehollandiae
Sterna caspia
Cape Barren Goose
Caspian Tern
EPBC
NPW
V
R
R
Status in study area
Vagrant
Irregular non-breeding visitor
Regular non-breeding visitor
Breeding resident
Breeding resident
Irregular non-breeding visitor
Irregular non-breeding visitor
Regular non-breeding visitor
Breeding resident
Irregular non-breeding visitor
(one bird observed in 2003)
Irregular non-breeding visitor
Regular non-breeding visitor
Irregular non-breeding visitor
(one observed in 2006)
Irregular non-breeding visitor
(seen once in 2011)
Breeding resident
14
Johnston, G., Close, D. and Carpenter, G. (2010). Birds of Section bank and the Revetment Mound at Outer
Harbour, South Australia. Unpublished.
Page 18
Crested Tern
Chestnut Teal
Common Greenshank
*Common Starling
Curlew Sandpiper
Double-banded Plover
Eastern Curlew
Eastern Great Egret
*Eurasian Skylark
Fairy Tern
Fluttering Shearwater
Galah
Great Cormorant
Great Egret
Grey Plover
Grey Teal
Hoary-headed Grebe
Hooded Plover
Kelp Gull
Little Black Cormorant
Little Egret
Little Grassbird
Little Penguin
Little Pied Cormorant
Little Raven
Magpie-lark
Marsh Sandpiper
Masked Lapwing
Nankeen Night Heron
Osprey
Pacific Gull
Pied Cormorant
Pied Oystercatcher
Red-capped Plover
Red-necked Avocet
Sterna bergii
Anas castanea
Tringa nebularia
*Sturnus vulgaris
Calidris ferruginea
Charadrius bicinctus
Numenius
madagascariensis
Ardea modesta
*Alauda arvensis
Sterna nereis
Puffinus gavia
Cacatua rosiecapilla
Phalacrocorax carbo
Ardea alba
Pluvialis squatarola
Anas gracilis
Poliocephalus
poliocephalus
Thinornis rubricollis
Larus dominicanus
Phalacrocorax
sulcirostris
Egretta garzetta
Megalurus gramineus
Eudyptula minor
Phalacrocorax
melanoleucos
Corvus mellori
Grallina cyanoleuca
Tringa stagnatilis
Vanellus miles
Nycticorax caledonicus
Pandion haliaetus
Red-necked Stint
Rock Parrot15
Royal Spoonbill
Larus pacificus
Phalacrocorax varius
Haematopus longirostris
Charadrius ruficapillus
Revurvirostra
novaehollandiae
Calidris ruficollis
Neophema petrophila
Platalea regia
Ruddy Turnstone
Salvin’s Prion
Sharp-tailed Sandpiper
Arenaria interpres
Pachyptila salvini
Calidris acuminata
15
V
V
E
Resident (breeds nearby)
Irregular non-breeding visitor
Breeds and disperses
Vagrant
Irregular non-breeding visitor
Regular non-breeding visitor
Regular non-breeding visitor
Regular non-breeding visitor
Regular non-breeding visitor
Regular non-breeding visitor
V
R
Vagrant
Irregular breeding resident
Regular non-breeding visitor
R
Resident (breeds nearby)
Irregular non-breeding visitor
Irregular non-breeding visitor
Resident (breeds nearby)
E
R
R
M
Breeding resident
Regular non-breeding visitor
Regular non-breeding visitor
Breeding resident
Regular non-breeding visitor
Regular non-breeding visitor
Regular non-breeding visitor
R
Regular non-breeding visitor
Irregular non-breeding visitor
Irregular non-breeding visitor
Breeding resident
Resident (breeds nearby)
Irregular non-breeding visitor observed once in 2001
Possible breeding resident
Resident (breeds nearby)
Breeding resident
Breeding resident
Irregular non-breeding visitor
Regular non-breeding visitor
Irregular non-breeding visitor
Breeds and disperses
Vagrant. One observed in
2010.
Vagrant
Regular non-breeding visitor
Noted on site as part of this study 9/5/14
Page 19
Short-tailed Shearwater
Silvereye
Silver Gull
Singing Honeyeater
Sooty Oystercatcher
Southern Giant-Petrel
Straw-necked Ibis
Puffinus tenuirostris
Zosterops lateralis
Larus novaehollandiae
Lichenostomus virescens
Haematopus fuliginosus
Macronectes giganteus
Threskiornis spinicollis
Vagrant
Irregular non-breeding visitor
Breeding resident
Regular non-breeding visitor
R
Possible breeding resident
E
V
Vagrant
Breeding resident
Irregular non-breeding visitor
Swamp Harrier
Circus approximans
(observed once in 2007)
Terek Sandpiper
Xenus cinereus
R
Irregular non-breeding visitor
Welcome Swallow
Hirundo neoxena
Resident (breeds nearby)
Whimbrel
Numenius phaeopus
R
Regular non-breeding visitor
Whiskered Tern
Chlidonias hybridus
Regular non-breeding visitor
Whistling Kite
Haliastur sphenurus
Irregular non-breeding visitor
White-bellied Sea-eagle
Haliaeetus leucogaster
E
Resident (breeds nearby)
White-faced Heron
Egretta novaehollandiae
Resident (breeds nearby)
White-fronted Chat
Epthinaura albifrons
Breeding resident
Willie Wagtail
Rhipidura leucophrys
Irregular non-breeding visitor
Yellow-billed Spoonbill
Platalea flavipes
Irregular non-breeding visitor
EPBC: Environment Protection and Biodiversity Conservation Act, NPW = Schedules of the National
Parks and Wildlife Act 2008
4.4.2 Reptiles and Frogs
No reptiles were noted at the time of inspection, although it is possible that small lizards, such as the
Marbled Gecko Christinus marmoratus may have colonised the area as this species has been
observed on small offshore Islands such as Wright Island near Victor Harbor (pers. obs). Due to the
very exposed, saline nature of the environment at the site it is considered highly unlikely that frogs
will be present.
4.4.3 Mammals
There are no native terrestrial mammal present on Bird Island. Bats may possibly fly over the area,
but there are currently no suitable niches for shelter (such as tree hollows). The waters around Bird
Island provide important Dolphin habitat, which has led to the creation of the Adelaide Dolphin
Sanctuary. Introduced mammal species for management include the fox, cat, rat and domestic dog.
4.4.4 Fish
Bird Island is part of a larger ecosystem unit which includes the Port River, Barker Inlet and Torrens
Island, Mutton Cove to the west on the LeFevre Peninsula and the St Kilda Mangroves to the north.
Whilst the focus of this Management Plan is the area of Bird Island above the high tide mark, it
should be noted that the Port River estuary contains the largest area of mangrove forest, shallow
seagrasses and mudflats in Gulf St Vincent. Sheltered conditions and good light penetration create
very high levels of plant and animal production making these prime contributors to the ecology of
the gulf and major nursery habitats for juvenile species of commercial fish and crustaceans,
particularly juvenile Western King Prawns and King George Whiting16.
16
Adelaide and Mount Lofty Ranges Natural Resources Management Board, 2008.
Page 20
4.4.5 Intertidal Invertebrates
Section Bank has some of the most species rich tidal flats in the northern region. About 90 taxa have
been found in total, being highest on Section Bank and in particular zones of single sites. Molluscs,
Annelida and Crustacea accounted for the majority of the species 17.
5. THREATS (MANAGEMENT ISSUES)
For Bird Island the management issues of particular concern in terms of biodiversity conservation
include:









Predation of nests and birds by pest animals (foxes, cats, rats);
Recreational activities disturbing nesting species and impacting on habitats;
Disturbance and impacts from domestic dogs
Weed invasion;
Over-proliferation of native Silver Gulls limiting nesting success of less abundant bird
species;
Marine pollution;
Lack of cadastral status;
Dredge spoil deposition from dredging of the Outer Harbor Channel;
Climate change
These are discussed in detail below.
5.1
Predation of birds and their nests by pest animals
Many waterbirds nest or roost on the ground where they are vulnerable to introduced predators.
Small numbers of foxes travel to and possible live on the Island, and large numbers of black rats
(Rattus rattus) inhabit Bird Island. The Metropolitan Adelaide and Northern Coastal Action Plan
notes that the nesting birds on the Section Bank are at risk from fox predation 18. Foxes were first
noted on Bird Island in 2002/3 (Greg Johnston pers. comm.). Following these initial sightings, a
number of roosting waders ceased to roost on Bird Island (Greg Johnston pers. comm.), providing
evidence of the significant impacts of this feral species.
It is likely that more foxes will access the Section Bank as sand deposition provides a low tide link to
Torrens Island19. Foxes have been sighted crossing the mudflats and sandbanks between Torrens
and Bird Island (Greg Johnston pers. comm.). Unwanted domestic cats are regularly dumped on
Torrens Island and are a problem around the Quarantine Station and the Torrens Island Power
Station20. These cats may also access Bird Island as linkage between Bird and Torrens Island
increases. Foxes also spread weeds amongst native vegetation, increasing the risk of introducing
weeds not currently present on Bird Island. The use of poisoned baits to control foxes and cats is
17
Dittmann, S., Baggalley, S., J. Keuning and Imgraben, S. (2012). Mudflat Condition Monitoring in Gulf St
Vincent. Final Report for the Adelaide and Mount Lofty Ranges Natural Resources Management Board.
18
Caton B., Fotheringham D., Krahnert E., Pearson J., Royal M. and Sandercock R. (2009). Metropolitan
Adelaide and Northern Coastal Action Plan. Prepared for the Adelaide and Mount Lofty Ranges NRM Board
and Department for Environment and Heritage
19
Carpenter, G. (2008), Birds of the Section Bank, Outer Harbor. A report prepared by G. Carpenter for Coast
and Marine Branch, Department of Environment and Heritage, June 2008.
20
Aaron Machado, AMWRO, pers. comm., July 2013
Page 21
problematic, as domestic pets are at times let loose on Bird Island, and may ingest the poison.
However domestic dogs themselves are also a significant cause of disturbance and appear to have
resulted in nest failures of pelicans on the island.
Black Rats (Rattus rattus) feed on refuse around nesting colonies, and may also prey on the eggs of
smaller waterbirds, and so are likely to be affecting the breeding of terns on Bird Island 21. Rat
populations undergo an annual flux related to the timing of bird breeding on the Island – with peak
numbers following the principal bird breeding time during winter, and with a population crash in the
summer months (Greg Johnston pers. comm.). At the time of writing there is a baiting program
underway to control Rats on the Island, with poisoned bait rodent stations being established from
the northern end of the Northern Revetment.
5.2
Recreational activities
As Bird Island has increased in size and the vegetation present has become more structurally
complex, visitation rates have increased. Humans are accessing the island for a number of reasons,
including out of interest, to allow pets to get exercise and defecate, for toileting, and even as a short
cut for kayakers to carry their craft across the island and hence reach the open sea faster (J. Hayes
pers. comm.). Whilst most are day visits, camping may also occur. The collection of bird eggs from
breeding colonies (for human consumption) has impacted the black-faced cormorant colony on the
Northern Revetment Mound and pelican, ibis, gull and tern colonies on Bird Island in some years 22.
Collection of intertidal invertebrates (for bait and a commercial cockle fishery on Section Bank) has
the potential to directly affect the amount of prey available to birds 23. Both humans and animals
may cause incubating birds to flush from their nests, leaving them vulnerable to predation by Silver
Gulls24. Domestic dogs may also attack or maim juvenile or adult birds. Carpenter (1998) noted that
larger bird species (such as egrets and herons) typically flush from about 100 metres and smaller
species (eg plovers) from 20-50 metres. In the process of flushing, there may also be stampedes of
adults or young, and trampling of eggs and nests25. Disturbance of the adult birds when they are
departing from or returning to the colony may possibly lead to regurgitation of food carried for
chicks26.
Whilst direct impacts on birds and their nesting success are the key recreational impacts, other
impacts include:
21
Carpenter, G. (2008), Birds of the Section Bank, Outer Harbor. A report prepared by G. Carpenter for Coast
and Marine Branch, Department of Environment and Heritage, June 2008.
22
Johnston, G., Close, D. and Carpenter, G. (2010). Birds of Section bank and the Revetment Mound at Outer
Harbour, South Australia. Unpublished.
23
Johnston, G., Close, D. and Carpenter, G. (2010). Birds of Section bank and the Revetment Mound at Outer
Harbour, South Australia. Unpublished.
24
Carpenter, G. (2008), Birds of the Section Bank, Outer Harbor. A report prepared by G. Carpenter for Coast
and Marine Branch, Department of Environment and Heritage, June 2008.
25
GBRMPA 1997, Guidelines for Managing Visitation to Seabird Breeding Islands, Prepared by WBM Oceanics
Australia and Gordon Claridge for the Great Barrier Reef Marine Park Authority and Environment AustraliaBiodiversity Group.
26
GBRMPA 1997, Guidelines for Managing Visitation to Seabird Breeding Islands, Prepared by WBM Oceanics
Australia and Gordon Claridge for the Great Barrier Reef Marine Park Authority and Environment AustraliaBiodiversity Group.
Page 22






5.3
trampling or crushing vegetation when walking through dune areas;
compaction of soil which limits natural regeneration;
disturbance of soil and erosion which encourages weeds;
introduction of new weed species; and
the illegal dumping of rubbish and debris which may cause entanglement;
littering with food scraps which may attract unwanted Silver Gulls.
Invasive weeds
Weeds threaten the diversity and structure of native vegetation communities, and can have
concomitant effects on native fauna. However, in sand dune systems it is important to be careful
with treatment and removal as the weeds may be playing a role in binding the sand and thus
preventing sand drift and loss. Table 5.1 lists the priority weeds for control, based upon the
Metropolitan and Northern Coastal Action Plan (MANCAP). Ongoing weed management strategies
need to address both removal of priority weed species, as well as revegetation with native species at
appropriate densities.
Table 5.1: List of Priority Weeds for control
Species
Common Name
*Ammophila arenaria
*Euphorbia paralias
*Euphorbia terracina
*Galenia pubescens var.
pubescens
*Lycium ferocissium
*Mesembryanthemum
crystallinum
*Oxalis pes-caprae
Marram Grass
Sea Spurge
False Caper
Coastal Galenia
27
Declared
28
Y
African Boxthorn
Common Iceplant
Y
Soursob
Y
Y
WONS
29
MANCAP
Threat Level
30
3
2
2
2
3
3
3
-
2
2
3
-
2
3
Red Alert
Weed
Rating
Carpenter (2008) 31 also notes that more open sites are favoured for nesting by terns, whereas areas
where weedy ground cover is high favour Silver Gulls. Tree Mallow has caused significant problems
in coastal habitats in South Australia, and has blanketed bare sites favoured by nesting terns on
Section Banks32 (although note that Mallow (Malva parviflora) was the dominant plant noted in the
27
Biosecurity SA Weeds and Pest Animals. Declared plants in South Australia, October 2012
http://www.pir.sa.gov.au/biosecuritysa/nrm_biosecurity/weeds/declared_plants_in_south_australia,_october_2012
28
Australian Weeds Committee (2012), Weeds of National Significance 2012. Department of Agriculture, Fisheries and
Forestry, Canberra, ACT http://www.weeds.org.au/WoNS/
29
Caton B., Fotheringham D., Krahnert E., Pearson J., Royal M. and Sandercock R. 2009. Metropolitan Adelaide
and Northern Coastal Action Plan. Prepared for the Adelaide and Mount Lofty Ranges NRM Board and
Department for Environment and Heritage
30
Refer to Croft, S.J., J.A. Pedler & T.I. Milne (2005 – 2008) Bushland Condition Monitoring Manual. Nature Conservation
Society of SA Inc.
31
Carpenter, G. (2008), Birds of the Section Bank, Outer Harbor. A report prepared by G. Carpenter for Coast
and Marine Branch, Department of Environment and Heritage, June 2008.
32
Purnell, C., Peter, J., Clemens, R. (2013). Shorebird Population Monitoring within Gulf St Vincent: July 2011
to June 2012 Annual Report. BirdLife Australia report for the Adelaide and Mount Lofty Ranges Natural
Resources Management Board and the Department of the Environment, Water, Heritage and the Arts
Page 23
assessment undertaken as part of this project, not Tree Mallow (Malva arborea)). As such, weed
management needs to aim for a reduction in weed ground cover to a more natural state.
5.4
Over-proliferation of Silver Gulls
Silver Gulls have increased in numbers enormously over the last half century33. Carpenter (2008)
notes:
“Silver Gulls began nesting on the Northern Revetment as early as 1955 (Cleland 1956), and about
400 birds nested there in 1970, prior to the construction of the Section Bank (Vincent 1988). Silver
Gulls began nesting at the Section Bank as soon as December 1979, when 20,000 nests were
recorded. By October 1987 over 50,000 birds were nesting over all of the vegetated parts of the
island (Vincent 1988). The Wingfield Dump provided a ready source of food for breeding gulls until
operations at the dump changed in late 2005 (G. Johnston pers. comm.). Breeding birds were then
reduced to about one third of former numbers, and only about 150 nests were attempted in 2007.
Silver Gulls also probably affect breeding of terns by predating eggs and young, particularly when
ready sources of other food are not available.”
As noted in Section 5.3, open nesting habitat areas need to be maintained to favour less prevalent
species (such as Fairy Terns) over Silver Gulls.
5.6
Marine pollution
Carpenter (2008) provided a succinct summary of the issues with marine pollution:
“Being located at the entrance of a busy city port, there is greater potential for marine pollution to
impact on waterbirds at the Section Bank. The Port River has been used to discard various industrial
and human waste for many years. Oil spills have the potential to affect seabirds anywhere in marine
environments. High levels of heavy metals in the marine environment have also been found in South
Australia (Long et al. 1997), although their impacts on birds (especially nesting species) are
unknown. Entanglement with fishing gear is also an important issue. It is likely that many birds
would die or are preyed upon as a result of entangling with fishing-line. Copley (1996) also
considered entanglements in fishing nets a potential threat to Black-faced Cormorants, although
total mortalities are likely to be low. Ingestion of plastic debris by surface feeding seabirds may also
result in increased mortality (Copley 1996).”
Preliminary studies (Fernandes et al 200834, 201035) highlighted possible concern about the
contamination of Barker Inlet with anti-bacterial and endocrine disrupting chemicals present in
33
Johnston, G. and Wiebkin, A. (2008). Birds of Gulf St Vincent. In “Natural history of Gulf St Vincent”. S. A.
Shepherd, S. Bryars, I. Kirkegaard, P. Harbison and J. T. Jennings (eds). Royal Society of South Australia,
Adelaide. pp. 324-338.
34
Fernandes, M., Shareef, A., Karkkainen, M. and Kookana, R. (2008) The occurrence of endocrine disrupting
chemicals and triclosan in sediments of Barker Inlet, South Australia. A report prepared for the Adelaide and
Mount Lofty Ranges Natural Resources Management Board. SARDI Publication No. F2008/001026-1. South
Australian Research & Development Institute (Aquatic Sciences), Adelaide, 11 pp.
35
Fernandes, M., Shareef, A., Kookana, R., Gaylard, S., Hoare, S. & Kildea, T. (2010) Estrogens, triclosan and
derivatives in sediments of Barker Inlet, South Australia. A report prepared for the Adelaide and Mount Lofty
Ranges Natural Resources Management Board and the South Australian Environment Protection Authority.
Page 24
pharmaceuticals and personal care products. The authors note “The implications for shorebird prey
species is unclear. Very little information is available on the toxicological response of marine
organisms to these compounds. Triclosan has been identified as toxic to freshwater algae at trace
levels. The need for further research has been identified to determine the risks associated with
accumulation in Barker Inlet, particularly to photosynthetic organisms at the base of the food chain,
from phytoplankton to mangroves. These compounds also have the potential for bioaccumulation,
and to cause hormonal disruption, and the effects to the local fauna, including its resident
population of Indo-Pacific bottlenose dolphins and seasonal populations of migratory shorebirds,
requires further research in the future.”
With the increase in the size of the island and its increased significance for sea and shorebirds, there
is a need to ensure that the importance of the island is noted on oil spill response atlas. Much
rubbish/debris is washed up on Bird Island. This includes items such as fishing line, rope, plastic
drink containers, plastic bags, old shoes, hats, timber, etc. The build-up of rubbish poses a threat to
the biodiversity assets of the area by inhibiting the growth of native flora species as well as
entanglement or ingestion by birds as discussed above. An example of debris accumulation is shown
in Figure 5.4.1.
Appendix 3 includes an example Marine Debris Monitoring Strategy datasheet provided by AMWRO
who regularly undertake the systematic collection and sorting of marine and other debris.
South Australian Research and Development Institute (Aquatic Sciences), Adelaide, 20 pp. SARDI Publication
No. F2010/000385-1. SARDI Research Report Series No 448. 20p..
Page 25
Figure 5.3.1: Debris accumulation in seaweed on the north eastern edge of Bird Island
5.6
Lack of cadastral status
Due to its recent development, Bird Island has no formal cadastral status. This has been identified as
a significant issue in the Metropolitan Adelaide and Northern Coastal Action Plan. Without formal
land tenure, ongoing responsibility for management is unclear.
5.7
Dredge spoil deposition from dredging of the Outer Harbor Channel
Whilst Bird Island has been created from a combination of anthropogenic (spoil deposition) and
natural (sand accumulation) processes, any future deposition of dredge spoil as a result of dredging
the Outer Harbor Channel needs to consider the substantial biodiversity values of the Island as it
currently exists.
5.8
Climate change
It is expected that the current mean sea level rise of 3mm/year in the region will accelerate over the
next 50-100 years. Bird Island is likely to be inundated, unless the rise is offset by sedimentation
and/or possible mangrove expansion.
Page 26
6. MANAGEMENT OBJECTIVES AND ACTIONS
6.1
Biodiversity management objectives
It is recognised that the key biodiversity asset of the Island is the habitat value it provides for
waterbirds. As such, the key biodiversity management objectives are to:


6.2
remove or reduce threats to waterbirds, especially significant nesting species
improve habitat values of remnant vegetation
Biodiversity management actions
These management objectives will be achieved by the following broad actions:







managing pest animals
managing recreational impacts
managing weeds
rubbish/debris removal
managing potential dredge spoil deposition
maintaining the open nature of the habitats of the Island
revegetating appropriately
Each is discussed below.
6.2.1 Managing pest animals
Implementation of a fox control program is seen as a high priority, however as discussed previously
this is problematic due to ongoing visitation to the Island by people and their domestic animals.
Control programs in Torrens Island Conservation Park may reduce numbers that traverse sand banks
to reach Bird Island. The Adelaide Pelican Research and Bird Monitoring Group is a group of
volunteers that regularly access the Island to gather data on bird species and to assist in
management. It is recommended that this group remain vigilant for the signs of foxes and when
signs are noted and reported to DEWNR so that a short term baiting program can be implemented.
This would help to minimise potential impacts on native fauna and pets that may access the island
(as there would be less risk when baits are only present for a short time) whilst still retaining
effectiveness in reducing fox numbers. Signage is also recommended (refer Section 6.2.2).
Ongoing control and monitoring of Black Rats is recommended. The optimal time for poisoning
would be in autumn/early winter, prior to the annual peak of rat numbers as noted previously. At
the time of writing there is a baiting program underway to control Rats on the Island, with poisoned
bait rodent stations being established from the northern end of the Northern Revetment across the
Island. Current rat control is being monitored, as one risk identified is that it may result in increased
silver gull numbers which themselves have potential to predate other native seabird and shorebird
eggs and chicks.
6.2.2 Managing recreational impacts
To protect the nesting habitats of bird species that are important at national and international
levels, unmanaged human visitation to Bird Island needs to be minimised. The Great Barrier Reef
Page 27
Marine Park Authority has produced a series of guidelines to reduce the impact of daytrip visitors to
seabird breeding islands36. These guidelines include the following actions:








establishment of activity zones located to limit the movement of visitors to the least
sensitive parts of seabird breeding islands and designation of these with fences, markers,
signs etc.;
erection of screen fences to avoid disturbance of birds;
construction of appropriate viewing facilities to reduce random access to the breeding area;
restriction of human presence to the beach so that this is not visible to the nesting birds;
restriction of daytrip visits so that people do not arrive less than two hours after sunrise and
do depart at least two hours before sunset;
brochures, videos, talks and other awareness tools to make visitors aware of the potential
for disturbance;
restriction of access to the breeding island to only those daytrip operators who are
marketing the breeding seabirds as a major attraction; and
provision of appropriate waste bins and education about the dangers of carelessly disposing
of waste such as cigarette butts.
Not all of these actions are relevant or required for Bird Island at this stage, but may be reflected
upon in the future if circumstances change. The following are the key activities recommended at
this point in time to manage recreational impacts:
Signage: It is recommended that interpretive and regulatory signage is installed to inform visitors of
the significant values present, and to keep people and their animals away from these nesting areas.
It is recommended that this signage also reflect the risk posed to domestic animals through poisoned
baits that may be laid on the Island. As such the following key points should be noted:




Bird Island forms critical habitat for native seabird and wader species
Nesting birds that are frightened from their nests may lose their young
Foxes need to be controlled using poisoned baits, as they prey on the nesting birds
At some times, poisoned baits will be laid that are toxic and may be dug up and eaten if
domestic pets are allowed to roam freely
It is recommended that signs be established at the south eastern end of the Island (adjacent the
northern revetment), the south western seaward side (adjacent the northern revetment) and at the
northern end.
Prevention of dog access: Purnell et al. 37recommend that dogs are prohibited from Section Banks
during the migration/breeding season (September – March). These recommendations could
36
GBRMPA 1997, Guidelines for Managing Visitation to Seabird Breeding Islands, Prepared by WBM Oceanics
Australia and Gordon Claridge for the Great Barrier Reef Marine Park Authority and Environment AustraliaBiodiversity Group.
37
Purnell, C., Peter, J., Clemens, R. (2013). Shorebird Population Monitoring within Gulf St Vincent: July 2011
to June 2012 Annual Report. BirdLife Australia report for the Adelaide and Mount Lofty Ranges Natural
Resources Management Board and the Department of the Environment, Water, Heritage and the Arts
Page 28
potentially be implemented, with signage supporting these restrictions, although implementation
and enforcement of restrictions would need to be negotiated between key stakeholders.
Fencing: Fencing could also be considered as a potential management intervention – for example,
key nesting areas for Fairy Terns could be fenced such that humans and dogs could not access the
area. However, there are risks in such an approach – for example, ringlock fence established around
Hooded Plover nests has led to nest abandonment 38. Natural Resources Adelaide and Mount Lofty
Ranges staff undertake beach-nesting bird management in other areas, (for Hooded Plover) with
BirdLife Australia. It is recommended that fencing is considered as an intervention only in the
following circumstances:


that Fairy Tern colonies consistently nest in the same area
that other attempts to reduce disturbance by dogs and humans are not successful
Guidelines for nest site management and appropriate dimensions for fencing can be found in
Maguire (2008) 39.
Visitor and community awareness: Signage will help raise visitor awareness, but there would be
additional benefits to raising broader community awareness. These are discussed in Section 7.
6.2.3 Managing weeds
Whilst weed infestation, particularly when leading to a reduction in open nesting spaces, is
considered likely to reduce nesting opportunities for terns40, it should be recognised that:
 Vegetation community 4.4.2 is on silty soils that were deposited as a result of dredging,
rather than a more natural sandy base. There is ongoing nutrient addition as a result of bird
faecal deposition. This leads to conditions more suited to the weed species that are present
than coastal native species. Even if weeds were treated/removed, ongoing infestation is
likely to occur;
 To treat weeds present in winter/spring (when most appropriate for control when green)
would result in significant disturbance to nesting birds;
 Some introduced species, such as boxthorn, are providing roosting values for species of birds
such as Australian White Ibis (Threskiornis molucca) and Straw-necked Ibis (Threskiornis
spinicollis). Staged removal that incorporates replacement with medium sized native shrub
species such as Atriplex cinerea and Nitraria billardierei needs to be undertaken;
 As a rule of thumb, weed control activities should focus on removal of priority weeds from
the least weedy areas first41.
The following weed control strategy has been prepared with reference to these key points.
38
Maguire, G.S. (2008). A practical guide for managing beach-nesting birds in Australia. Birds Australia,
Melbourne.
39
Maguire, G.S. (2008). A practical guide for managing beach-nesting birds in Australia. Birds Australia,
Melbourne.
40
Carpenter, G. (2008), Birds of the Section Bank, Outer Harbor. A report prepared by G. Carpenter for Coast
and Marine Branch, Department of Environment and Heritage, June 2008.
41
Robertson, M. (2005). Stop Bushland Weeds. Nature Conservation Society of South Australia Inc.
Page 29
6.2.3.1
Samphire Shrubland Communities
There are no current weed issues in the samphire shrubland communities (4.2.1 Sarcocornia sp. /
Tecticornia sp. / Sueda australis low closed shrubland and 4.2.2 Sarcocornia sp. / Tecticornia sp. low
closed shrubland with emergent Avicennia marina ssp. marina Figure 4.2). Ongoing monitoring of
this area for the presence of weeds should be undertaken, and weeds removed if detected.
6.2.3.2
Atriplex cinerea / Nitraria billardierei Open Shrubland
Weed control efforts should initially focus on the removal of Boxthorn and Galenia from the Atriplex
cinerea / Nitraria billardierei Open Shrubland in the northern sections of the Island (Figure 4.2). This
will maintain the open structure favoured by key nesting species. As these weeds are only at
relatively low levels currently, it is unlikely that their control and removal will cause sand movement
as a result of loss of stabilising roots, and native species present are in relatively high density and
thus can provide the habitat values required by roosting birds. There are also small patches of
Marram Grass on the low primary dunes on the western side of the Island. It is recommended that
this grass is removed.
6.2.3.3
Atriplex cinerea / Nitraria billardierei / Lycium ferocissimum Shrubland
The southern end of Bird Island (vegetation community 4.4.2 Figure 4.2) has the greatest issue with
weeds. It is recommended that weed control focus on priority weeds and commence in a staged
fashion, working from the north, and replacing weedy species with native plants that can bind the
soil. Any boxthorn control needs to take into consideration the roosting values of the plant.
Therefore it is recommended that after poisoning, the plant skeleton be left in place until
replacement native species are established. In this area Mallow (Malva parviflora) is prominent, and
as indicated previously has been implicated in reduction of bare sites favoured by nesting terns.
Weed control activities at all times need to consider disturbance to nesting birds at the time control
is undertaken. As such, control programs should be limited to summer months, when there is little
breeding occurring, and impacts on roosting habitat considered as discussed above.
6.2.4 Rubbish/debris removal
Ongoing removal of rubbish and debris will help to minimise impacts on seabirds. The Adelaide
Pelican Research and Bird Monitoring Group regularly remove rubbish from the Island, particularly
that rubbish which poses a threat to nesting birds, such as tangled fishing lines and nets. This action
may be maintained by community groups into the future. However, these should always be
targeted clean ups by small supervised groups, who are aware of bird disturbance issues, rather
than large community clean ups, unless undertaken outside of seabird breeding and shorebird
seasons.
6.2.5 Dredge spoil deposition from dredging of the Outer Harbor Channel
No dredge spoil should be put on top of the existing vegetation on the Island. Any potential future
dumping of spoil needs to be done in such a manner that the biodiversity values of the Island as
detailed in this document are not compromised. This includes consideration of disturbance to
nesting birds. Any dredging or dumping activities proposed should be timed to minimise impact to
nesting seabirds and migratory shorebirds. The tidal flats have a high biodiversity and provide a
valuable shorebird resource. Any potential dredging or removal of sand may need referral under the
Page 30
Environment Protection and Biodiversity Conservation Act for potential impact to migratory
shorebirds listed under the Act.
6.2.6 Maintaining open habitat areas
It is desirable to maintain significant areas of bare habitat on Bird Island. More open sites are
favoured for nesting by terns, whereas areas where weedy ground cover is high favour Silver Gulls 42.
Shorebirds also prefer the security of open spaces with high visibility for the easy detection of
approaching predators43. The continued expansion of both shrub habitats and Grey Mangrove on
Bird Island may therefore have a negative impact on seabird and wader populations on the Island.
Whilst at this point in time there is no evidence that management intervention is required (aside
from those already discussed), it may be a requirement in the future to intentionally remove
vegetation (including native vegetation) to create appropriate bare areas for nesting, and retain the
required open spaces. As an example, Towra Spit Island near Sydney is a significant breeding site for
the endangered Little Tern. Areas of spinifex, Lomandra and Acacias have been removed from the
Island so there are areas of bare sand for little terns to build their nests. However, as chicks require
shelter once they begin to stray from the nest before fledging, vegetation on Towra Spit Island is
maintained in a perimeter around the cleared area 44. Similar actions could be undertaken on Bird
Island if warranted. Consultation would need to be undertaken with the Native Vegetation Section,
Department for Environment, Water and Natural Resources if this clearance involved native species.
6.2.7 Revegetation
Revegetation efforts should be undertaken in conjunction with weed control efforts. These efforts
should focus upon supplementing existing habitat, using appropriate species for the vegetation type
and planting at appropriate (natural) densities. The site has already demonstrated an ability for
native species to naturally colonise and regenerate, and as such, revegetation should specifically
focus on replacing structural weed species (eg Boxthorn) with native species. The revegetation
recommended is relatively limited, recognising the key biodiversity values of the Island (seabird and
wader species) may be disturbed by a broad scale revegetation program.
Table 6.2.7: Revegetation plant list
Scientific name
Atriplex cinerea
Enchylaena tomentosa var.
tomentosa
Nitraria billardierei
Common name
Grey Saltbush
Barrier Saltbush
Dillon Bush
Notes
Plant as replacement species
for staged removal of
Boxthorn
42
Carpenter, G. (2008), Birds of the Section Bank, Outer Harbor. A report prepared by G. Carpenter for Coast
and Marine Branch, Department of Environment and Heritage, June 2008.
43
Purnell, C., Peter, J., Clemens, R. (2013). Shorebird Population Monitoring within Gulf St Vincent: July 2011
to June 2012 Annual Report. BirdLife Australia report for the Adelaide and Mount Lofty Ranges Natural
Resources Management Board and the Department of the Environment, Water, Heritage and the Arts.
44
Department for Environment and Climate Change NSW (2008). Best practice guidelines. Managing
threatened beach-nesting shorebirds. State of NSW and Department of Environment and Climate Change
NSW.
Page 31
7. COMMUNITY INVOLVEMENT
The Adelaide Pelican Research and Bird Monitoring Group and several key individuals such as Greg
Johnston and David Close have been involved in ongoing monitoring and management of Bird Island.
Aside from this group, there is little general awareness of the importance and sensitivity of the
Island. As noted previously, visitation rates to Section Banks and Bird Island are increasing, with
increasing impact on the biodiversity of the Island. Increasing community involvement and
understanding of the Island may be an approach to improving protection from key threats such as
pet dogs being allowed to run free on the Island and disturb nesting birds. Positive impacts that may
occur through increased community involvement include:





Increased understanding of the importance of Bird Island in the local community;
Increased media opportunities to build community awareness of threats to the Island;
Reduced impacts on the Island of inappropriate recreational use (including impacts of dogs)
through:
o avoidance of the Island by community members aware of the values of the Island;
o informal enforcement of restrictions (such as no free ranging dogs on the Island) by
community members aware of the need for such restrictions;
Ongoing involvement in management and monitoring activities;
Ongoing active community involvement ensures that conservation actions become
sustainable.
However increased community involvement would need to managed to be consistent with
maintaining the conservation values of the Island, and so would need to ensure perverse outcomes,
such as increased visitation (as a result of increased awareness) that causes disturbance to nesting
and roosting birds, does not occur. As such there needs to be ongoing broad oversight of
community involvement with the Island.
The South Australian Government has made a commitment to an International Bird Sanctuary over
the Dry Creek saltfields that also extends 60km along the Gulf Saint Vincent coast from the Barker
Inlet to the south to Port Parham in the north. It is recommended that as part of the process of the
development of this Sanctuary, consideration is given to the broader context of wader and seabird
dynamics within the Gulf, and that all components of this system are considered and managed
appropriately. With regard to community involvement, there will be a suite of community
engagement opportunities, as well as tourism opportunities, related to this new International
Sanctuary. There will also be significant opportunities to build community understanding of the
importance of the seabird and wader habitat in the Gulf, including Bird Island. As such this new
Sanctuary could contribute to the management of Bird Island by:





Improving community awareness of issues relating to wader and seabird conservation;
Improving understanding of the importance of Bird Island as a safe place for birds to breed
Providing opportunities for community to be involved with conservation, whilst also
ensuring that sensitive locations, such as Bird Island, do not become overexposed to threats
from excess visitation by sympathetic users;
Providing opportunities for birdwatchers/tourists to see waders and seabirds in situ at
locations other than Bird Island;
Providing broad oversight of community involvement with the Island.
Page 32
It is also recommended that the Adelaide Pelican Research and Bird Monitoring Group is consulted
and empowered in any ongoing management and decision making processes as part of ongoing
community involvement with the project.
8. MONITORING
8.1
Monitoring Pest Animals
As discussed previously, it is recommended that ongoing surveillance is undertaken for the presence
of foxes, and responsive baiting undertaken if detected. Black Rats should also be monitored
through an annual baiting program in early winter, with the number of baits taken being an indicator
of the presence and number of rats present. Monitoring of Silver Gulls should be undertaken to
determine if rat control is leading to increased gull numbers. Additionally monitoring of nesting
seabirds should also be undertaken.
8.2
Monitoring of Native Vegetation Extent and Condition
Baseline data has been collected as part of this report using the Department for Environment, Water
and Natural Resources “BushRAT” assessment methodology45. This technique is derived from the
Nature Conservation Society of South Australia’s ‘Bushland Condition Monitoring’ (BCM)
methodology, including a Rapid Assessment version (Croft et al, 2005), but uses an area of
vegetation of consistent condition rather than the 30m x 30m quadrats used in the BCM
methodology. Three ‘components’ of the biodiversity value of the site are measured and scored:
vegetation condition, conservation value and landscape context. For this project, only the
vegetation condition components have been scored. Example datasheets from the BushRAT method
are provided in Appendix 1.
A summary of the BushRAT method and the data collected for this project is provided in Appendix 1.
The baseline mapping of extent of vegetation types (Figure 4.2) can be used in conjunction with
weed cover estimates to track progress of weed control activities. GPS locations of site photographs
can be used for ongoing photopoint monitoring (refer Appendix 1)).
Figure 4.2, site photographs and BushRAT data can also be used as a baseline to evaluate changes to
the extent and type of vegetation on the Island. As discussed in Section 6.2.6, ongoing evaluation of
the extent of open nesting and feeding habitat needs to be undertaken to ensure optimal habitat
conditions for seabirds and waders.
8.3
Monitoring Seabird and Wader Populations
Greg Johnston has conducted research into the Pelicans and other birds of Bird Island for over 15
years. This work has been carried on by the Adelaide Pelican Research and Bird Monitoring Group,
who visit the Island each week and conduct bird counts and gather observations. This group has also
begun to contribute data to shorebird counts in Gulf St Vincent through Birds South Australia and
BirdLife Australia’s Shorebirds 2020 Program, along with other volunteer contributors. The Adelaide
and Mount Lofty Ranges Natural Resources Management Board along with BirdLife Australia has
been undertaking shorebird population monitoring across Gulf St Vincent. This includes surveys of
45
DEWNR (2012) NVBMU BushRAT assessment and scoring Manual. Unpublished document, Department for
Environment, Water and Natural Resources, Waite.
Page 33
Bird Island by shorebird researchers. These works should be continued, to help confirm the
significance of the Bird Island area, as well as to contribute to the broader understanding of wader
and seabird populations.
8.4
Plan implementation – progress reporting
Progress reporting helps with the assessment of the effort put in to management actions. Some
efforts will be more successful than others. Various factors such as weather or control technique
may affect outcomes. Example Works Record sheets are included in Appendix 4.
Page 34
9. BIODIVERSITY ACTION PLAN
The table below lists the biodiversity management threats/issues for Bird Island, related objectives, actions already taken to address them, and further
actions being proposed.
ISSUE/THREAT
Proposed actions- what/ where/how
Priority
(H, M,
L)
Expected yr completion
No foxes present
and new
incursions treated
when detected
Undertake an opportune baiting program whenever signs of
foxes are detected.
H
Ongoing
No cats present
and new
incursions treated
if detected
Remain vigilant for presence of cats and control with baiting
program as required. Inform Cat and Dog Management Board
of issues and seek targeted awareness in the Port and Torrens
Island area.
H
Ongoing
Rat populations
72 bait stations established in June/July
Continue to treat rats using bait stations in late autumn / early
treated annually
2014.
winter. Monitor potential effects on seabirds, particularly
to reduce impacts
increases of Silver Gulls.
Recreation – Negative impacts on biodiversity (trampling, disturbance to native fauna, erosion, rubbish dumping, etc)
Recreational
All visitors to Bird On an ad-hoc basis when inappropriate
Install appropriate interpretive/regulatory signage at strategic
activities
Island are not
activities have been noted.
locations to inform/educate visitors about the values of Bird
(including pet
negatively
Island and the risks posed to pets by baiting programs.
dogs) disturbing impacting on
Consider closing Island at key nesting periods. Improve
nesting
native flora and
knowledge and understanding of the values of Bird Island
fauna.
through appropriate local media.
H
Ongoing
H
2017
Seek to incorporate the Bird Island area into patrols by
Adelaide Dolphin Sanctuary staff. Ensure that planning for
visitor management of the island is incorporated into
management planning for the proposed Adelaide International
Bird Sanctuary
H
Pest animals
Foxes
Feral Cats
5-Yr Objective
Actions to date – what/ who
Rats
ISSUE/THREAT
Weeds
Boxthorn
Coastal Galenia
Mallow
Tree Mallow
Marram Grass
5-Yr Objective
Actions to date – what/ who
Proposed actions- what/ where/how
Priority
(H, M,
L)
Expected yr completion
Eradicate from
Bird Island once
replacement
structural plants
have been
established
Some control undertaken at northern end
M
Ongoing but only new
emergents from 2019
Reduce
infestations in
4.2.3 to cover
rating 1 (not
many, cover
<1%).
Treat infestations
in 4.2.4 to reduce
to cover rating 1
(not many, cover
<1%). Monitor
for spread into
community 4.2.3.
Eradicate if
detected
Not treated to date.
Start treatment in vegetation community 4.2.3 and
progressively move south into 4.2.4. Foliar spray with
glyphosate. Follow-up control will be required. Continue patrol
of entire area and control as necessary. Undertake control in
late summer, but avoid long hot dry spells. Leave dead plants
in place for their nesting and roosting values until suitable
structural native plants have become established. Revegetate
with native shrubs to maintain habitat values.
Start treatment in vegetation community 4.2.3 and work
southwards towards 4.2.4. Undertake control in summer.
L
Ongoing – likely to
continually emerge
Not treated to date.
Treat infestations in community 4.2.4. Handpull plants in
summer.
M
Ongoing
Not detected to date, but Tree Mallow has
been implicated in reducing favourable
habitat for terns in other parts of the state
and so needs to be eradicated if detected.
Not treated to date.
Treat infestations if detected. Cut & swab with Garlon.
H
Ongoing
M
Ongoing – likely to
continually emerge
Eradicate from
Bird Island
Undertake control in summer.
Slash then spray or wipe with Glyphosate 360g/L immediately.
Monitor for new emergence.
Page 36
Revegetation
Weed species
replacing native
vegetation
Replace
Revegetation with Nitre Bush occurred in
Replace boxthorns that are treated with appropriate native
boxthorns with
1979. Boobialla and Ficinia nodosa may
shrub species (Atriplex cinerea, Nitraria billardieri). Maintain
native shrub
have been planted (pers. obs.).
cover at less than 50% projective foliage cover, or 1 plant per
species. Maintain
10m2. Remove Boxthorns when native species reach
cover of
equivalent heights.
shrubs>1m in
range 5-25%
(Community
4.2.3) and 26-50%
(Community
4.2.4). Retain
some open areas
in 4.2.3 as per
below.
Expansion of native habitats that are unsuitable for nesting and feeding activities of waterbirds
Expansion of
Maintain
No actions to date
Monitor spread and impact of changes to areas of Grey
areas of Grey
appropriate open
Mangrove.
Mangrove
habitat areas
Investigate potential management options for Grey Mangrove
populations to minimise encroachment onto significant
shorebird habitat.
Loss of bare and Maintain
No actions to date
Monitor changes to the extent and structure of vegetation on
low vegetated
appropriate open
Bird Island.
areas
habitat areas
Monitor location and nesting success of Fairy Tern colonies.
Re-assess whether management intervention is required.
Rubbish/debris removal
Scattered
Reduce the
Some removal conducted by the Adelaide Continue to monitor for birds entangled in debris, and remove
rubbish/marine amount of
Pelican Research and Bird Monitoring
dangerous items as detected. Ensure any debris clean up
debris
rubbish along
Group.
activities are supervised and managed to avoid disturbance to
shorelines.
birds.
M
2017
H
Ongoing
H
H
Ongoing
H
M
Ongoing
Page 37
Monitoring
Monitor
progress and
success of
works
undertaken
BushRAT assessments, photographs and
associated mapping compiled as part of this
project.
Monitor wader
and seabird
populations
The Adelaide Pelican Research and Bird
Monitoring Group visit the Island each week
and conduct bird counts and gather
observations.
Repeat BushRAT assessments at regular intervals to measure
success of management interventions with regard to native
vegetation.
M
Record details of works as they are undertaken. Use Works
record sheets (Appendix 7)
M
Continue regular bird counts and vigilance for emerging issues.
Contribute data to shorebirds counts in Gulf St Vincent through
Birds South Australia and BirdLife Australia’s Shorebirds 2020
Program.
H
Ongoing
Ongoing
This group also remain vigilant for any
emerging management issues.
Page 38
Appendix 1: BushRAT monitoring data
Page 39
It is not the intent of this report to provide an extensive overview of the use and application of the
BushRAT methodology. A full description of the method and its application can be found within
DEWNR (2012)46. The following is a simple overview of the contribution of different scoring
components to the BushRAT overall score.
Vegetation Condition Scores (/80)
Vegetation condition component
Native Plant Species Diversity (15)
Weed Score (15)
Native Plant Life Forms (10)
Regeneration (8)
Native:exotic Understorey Biomass
(10)
Bare Ground (3)
Tree Health (5)
Tree Hollows (5)
Fallen timber (5)
Grazing Evidence (4)
Overview description
A count of the number of species present is
compared to a “benchmark” value for that
vegetation type. This is then allocated a score
from 0-15.
The cover and abundance of all weed species
present is recorded. The 5 weeds with the highest
product of threat rating and cover are summed to
provide a score. This is then compared to a
“benchmark” value for that vegetation type, and
allocated a score from 0-15.
The cover of different native plant life forms is
compared to a “benchmark” value for that
vegetation type. This is then allocated a score from
0-10.
The total number of woody native species in
juvenile or seedling form is recorded and
compared to a “benchmark” value for that
vegetation type. This is then allocated a score
from 0-8.
The percentage of the total vegetative biomass of
shrubs and groundcover plants < 2m high that is
native is noted. This is then allocated a score from
0-10.
The percentage of the grounds surface that is truly
bare is noted and allocated a score from 0-3.
Average overall overstorey canopy health is
allocated to a category, and then a score from 0-5.
NOTE: NOT SCORED FOR COASTAL SHRUBLAND
VEGETATION.
This score relates to the number of small and large
tree hollows present, with a rating of 0-5. NOTE:
NOT SCORED FOR COASTAL SHRUBLAND
VEGETATION.
This score relates to the amount of branch and
trunk sized logs present, with a rating of 0-5. NOTE:
NOT SCORED FOR COASTAL SHRUBLAND
VEGETATION.
This score relates to evidence of grazing pressure,
including pugging, compacting and chewing. The
score is from 0-4.
46
DEWNR (2012) NVBMU BushRAT assessment and scoring Manual. Unpublished document, Department for
Environment, Water and Natural Resources, Waite.
Page 40
Sarcocornia sp. / Tecticornia sp. / Sueda australis low closed shrubland
GPS Location of Photograph: 270084 6150607 Direction: SW
Benchmark Vegetation Community Type:
Site photograph:
Native Plant Species List
Species Name
Common Name
Sarcocornia quinqueflora
Suaeda australis
Tecticornia sp.
Beaded Glasswort
Austral Seablite
Conservation
Status
AUS SA
SL
Comment
Weed List:
No weeds present in this vegetation type.
Scores for Individual BushRAT Components:
Page 41
Note: A low score indicates poor condition for that attribute, a high score indicates good condition.
Thus a very high weed score means there are very few weeds, and a very low weed score means
there is a profusion of threatening weeds.
BushRAT score sheet
NVBMU Biodiversity Rapid Assessment Summary Scoresheet
SITE: Bird Island
RECORDER: TM ST
DESCRIPTION: Sarcocornia sp. / Tecticornia sp. / Sueda australis low closed shrubland
DATE: 23/5/2014
BCM CODE: SMLR Co 8.1 - Coastal Samphire Shrublands with Tidal Inundation/Hypersaline
VEGETATION CONDITION SCORE (max. in
score
brackets)
Native Plant Species Diversity (15)
10
Weed Score (15)
15
Native Plant Life Forms (10)
Regeneration (8)
Native:exotic Understorey Biomass (10)
8
6
10
Bare Ground (3)
2
Grazing Evidence (4)
4
Page 42
Sarcocornia sp. / Tecticornia sp. low closed shrubland with emergent
Avicennia marina ssp. marina
GPS Location of Photograph: 270108 6150620 Direction:N
Benchmark Vegetation Community Type:
Site photograph:
Native Plant Species List
Species Name
Common Name
Avicennia marina ssp. marina
Sarcocornia quinqueflora
Tecticornia sp.
Mangrove
Beaded Glasswort
Conservation
Status
AUS SA
SL
Comment
Weed List:
No weeds present in this vegetation type.
Scores for Individual BushRAT Components:
Page 43
Note: A low score indicates poor condition for that attribute, a high score indicates good condition.
Thus a very high weed score means there are very few weeds, and a very low weed score means
there is a profusion of threatening weeds.
BushRAT score sheet
NVBMU Biodiversity Rapid Assessment Summary Scoresheet
SITE: Bird Island
RECORDER: TM ST
DATE: 23/5/2014
DESCRIPTION: Sarcocornia sp. / Tecticornia sp. low closed shrubland with emergent Avicennia marina ssp. marina
BCM CODE: SMLR Co 9 - Mangroves
VEGETATION CONDITION SCORE (max. in
score
brackets)
Native Plant Species Diversity (15)
NA
Weed Score (15)
15
Native Plant Life Forms (10)
8
Regeneration (8)
NA
Native:exotic Understorey Biomass (10)
10
Bare Ground (3)
1
Grazing Evidence (4)
4
Page 44
Atriplex cinerea / Nitraria billardierei Open Shrubland
GPS Location of Photograph: 270517 6151347 Direction: SW
Benchmark Vegetation Community Type:
Site photograph:
Native Plant Species List
Species Name
Common Name
Atriplex cinerea
Atriplex semibaccata
Austrostipa sp.
Carpobrotus rossii
Enchylaena tomentosa var.
tomentosa
Myoporum insulare
Nitraria billardierei
Sarcocornia quinqueflora
Senecio pinnatifolius var.
pinnatifolius
Grey Saltbush
Creeping Saltbush
Speargrass
Karkalla
Conservation
Status
AUS SA
SL
Comment
Barrier Saltbush
Native Juniper
Dillon Bush
Beaded Glasswort
Page 45
Species Name
Common Name
Senecio quadridentatus
Suaeda australis
Threlkeldia diffusa
Cotton Fireweed
Austral Seablite
Coast Bonefruit
Conservation
Status
AUS SA
SL
Comment
Weed List:
Species Name
Common Name
Cover
Ammophila arenaria
Arctotheca calendula
Cakile maritima ssp. maritima
Conyza bonariensis
Euphorbia paralias
Galenia pubescens var.
pubescens
Lycium ferocissimum
Mesembryanthemum
crystallinum
Solanum nigrum
Sonchus oleraceus
Marram Grass
Cape Dandelion
Beach Rocket
Tall Fleabane
Sea Spurge
1
1a
3
1
1
Galenia
African Boxthorn
1
1a
Iceplant
Black-berry Nightshade
Milk Thistle
1a
1
1a
Cover Rating
not many, cover <1%
Plentiful, cover <1%
Covering 1 - 5%
Covering 5 – 25%
Covering 26 –50%
Covering 51 – 75%
Covering > 75%
Comment
Mostly at southern end
1
1a
2
3
4
5
6
Scores for Individual BushRAT Components:
Page 46
Note: A low score indicates poor condition for that attribute, a high score indicates good condition.
Thus a very high weed score means there are very few weeds, and a very low weed score means
there is a profusion of threatening weeds. Note also that the bare ground score, as a generic
indicator of vegetation condition, scores higher amounts of bare ground as a low score. In the case
of Bird Island, there are some areas where it is desirable to have a high amount of bare ground to
provide open areas for nesting birds.
BushRAT score sheet
NVBMU Biodiversity Rapid Assessment Summary Scoresheet
SITE: Bird Island
RECORDER: TM ST
DESCRIPTION: Atriplex cinerea / Nitraria billardierei Open Shrubland
DATE: 23/5/2014
BCM CODE: SMLR Co 7.2 - Coastal Shrublands & Tall Shrublands
VEGETATION CONDITION SCORE (max. in
score
Native Plant Species Diversity (15)
brackets)
8
Weed Score (15)
9
Native Plant Life Forms (10)
5
Regeneration (8)
4
Native:exotic Understorey Biomass (10)
8
Bare Ground (3)
1
Grazing Evidence (4)
4
Weed species (To p 5 Co ver x Invasiveness, annuals in bo ld)
Cover (max. 6)
Cx I
Invasive Threat Category (max. 5)
3
1
3
1a
3
3
Galenia pub escens var. pub escens
1
2
2
Ammophila arenaria
1
3
3
Mesemb ryanthemum crystallinum
1
Cakile maritima ssp. maritima
Lycium ferocissimum
2
Total Cover x Threat Invasion
2
13
Page 47
Atriplex cinerea / Nitraria billardierei / Lycium ferocissimum Shrubland
GPS Location of Photograph: 269882 6150323 Direction: SW
Benchmark Vegetation Community Type:
Site photograph:
Native Plant Species List
Species Name
Common Name
Atriplex cinerea
Carpobrotus rossii
Enchylaena tomentosa var.
tomentosa
Ficinia nodosa
Myoporum insulare
Nitraria billardierei
Sarcocornia quinqueflora
Senecio pinnatifolius var.
pinnatifolius
Grey Saltbush
Karkalla
Conservation
Status
AUS SA
SL
Comment
Barrier Saltbush
Knobby Club-sedge
Native Juniper
Dillon Bush
Beaded Glasswort
Page 48
Weed List:
Species Name
Common Name
Ammophila arenaria
Arctotheca calendula
Atriplex prostrata
Cakile maritima ssp. maritima
Chenopodium murale
Euphorbia paralias
Galenia pubescens var.
pubescens
Lycium ferocissimum
Malva parviflora
Mesembryanthemum
crystallinum
Oxalis pes-caprae
Reichardia tingitana
Urtica urens
Marram Grass
Cape Dandelion
Creeping Saltbush
Beach Rocket
Sowbane
Sea Spurge
1a
1a
2
2
1a
1a
Galenia
African Boxthorn
Marshmallow
4
3
2
Iceplant
Soursop
Reichardia
Stinging Nettle
3
1
1a
1a
Cover Rating
not many, cover <1%
Plentiful, cover <1%
Covering 1 - 5%
Covering 5 – 25%
Covering 26 –50%
Covering 51 – 75%
Covering > 75%
Cover
Comment
1
1a
2
3
4
5
6
Scores for Individual BushRAT Components:
Page 49
Note: A low score indicates poor condition for that attribute, a high score indicates good condition.
Thus a very high weed score means there are very few weeds, and a very low weed score means
there is a profusion of threatening weeds. Note also that the bare ground score, as a generic
indicator of vegetation condition, scores higher amounts of bare ground as a low score. In the case
of Bird Island, there are some areas where it is desirable to have a high amount of bare ground to
provide open areas for nesting birds.
BushRAT score sheet
NVBMU Biodiversity Rapid Assessment Summary Scoresheet
SITE: Bird Island
RECORDER: TM ST
DATE: 23/5/2014
DESCRIPTION: Atriplex cinerea / Nitraria billardierei / Lycium ferocissimum Open Shrubland
BCM CODE: SMLR Co 7.2 - Coastal Shrublands & Tall Shrublands
VEGETATION CONDITION SCORE (max. in
score
Native Plant Species Diversity (15)
brackets)
5
Weed Score (15)
4
Native Plant Life Forms (10)
4
Regeneration (8)
3
Native:exotic Understorey Biomass (10)
3
Bare Ground (3)
2
Grazing Evidence (4)
4
Weed species (To p 5 Co ver x Invasiveness, annuals in bo ld)
Cover (max. 6)
Cx I
Invasive Threat Category (max. 5)
Cakile maritima ssp. maritima
2
1
2
Lycium ferocissimum
3
3
9
Galenia pub escens var. pub escens
4
2
8
Malva parviflora
2
1
2
Mesemb ryanthemum crystallinum
3
2
Total Cover x Threat Invasion
6
27
Page 50
Appendix 2: Notes on birds in the Outer Harbor Area (adapted from
Telfer 2013)47
47
Telfer, S. (2013). Torrens Island Biodiversity Action Plan. Unpublished report prepared for the Adelaide and
Mount Lofty Ranges Natural Resources Management Board.
Page 51
Bird Species of the Outer Harbor Area
(List compiled from several sources, including Metropolitan Adelaide and Northern Coastal Action Plan and the Australian Living Atlas)
COMMON NAME
SCIENTIFIC NAME
CONSERVATION
RATING
EPBC SA ML
E
V
V
Australasian Bittern
Botaurus poiciloptilus
Australasian Grebe
C
C
Australasian Shoveler
Tachybaptus
novaehollandiae
Anas rhynchotis
R
R
Australian Hobby
Falco longipennis
U
U
Australian Magpie
Gymnorhina tibicen
C
C
Australian Pelican
Pelecanus conspicillatus
C
C
Australian Pratincole
Stiltia isabella
C
R
Australian Reed-warbler
Acrocephalus australis
C
Australian Shelduck
Tadorna tadornoides
C
C
Australian Spotted Crake
Porzana fluminea
C
C
Australian White Ibis
Threskiornis molucca
C
C
Australian Wood Duck
Chenonetta jubata
C
C
Baillon's Crake
Porzana pusilla
U
R
Comments*
More coastal reedy swamps, lagoons, rivers, so more likely fresher water. Feeds at night in shallow
water on fish, frogs, crustaceans, invertebrates.
Aquatic species. Any permanent water, but prefers freshwater. Rarely saltwater. Feeds on aquatic
insects.
E & S Aust. Swamps and permanent water, preferring more undisturbed well vegetated freshwater
areas. Occasionally coast. Filter feeder of shallow water or wet mud for invertebrates, crustaceans,
water plants.
Widespread throughout Aust. Prefers open woodlands. Hunts small birds, but also at dusk bats and
large moths.
Widespread Australia where trees and adjacent open areas, including urban parks and playing
fields. Absent from forest and arid areas. Feeds on ground for insects, larvae.
Found on larger open waters (fresh & salt) and shores. Breeds usually small islands in bays, Coorong
etc. Not Torrens Is.
Mainly N E & SE Aust. Especially drier areas. Commonly found near water, in open inland plains,
sparsely wooded plains and tussock grasslands. Feeds on insects, spiders and centipedes. Salt glands
enables it to drink salt and freshwater.
Widespread Aust. Where dense vegetation alongside water, especially thick reed beds, tall crops,
even bamboo. Feeds on insects.
Southern Aust. Prefers freshwater, rarely saltwater if near freshwater. Open grassy flats, swamps,
lakes, rivers. Feeds on green grass, and less so on insects, algae, crustaceans.
E & S Aust. Prefers well-vegetated edges of fresh or saltwater, permanent or temporary wetlands.
Usually found among dense plant growth such as saltbush, reeds, rushes, mangroves, thick grass, or
dense shrubs. Feed on seeds, molluscs, insects, crustaceans and spiders, foraging on mudflats, in
reed beds, shallow water.
Nomadic. Widely distributed in wetter parts of Aust. Can be found in swamps, lagoons, floodplains,
grasslands, urban parks and gardens. Feeds on terrestrial and aquatic invertebrates, crustaceans
and molluscs by probing mud.
Common and nomadic. Found grassland, urban parks, wetlands, flooded pasture, around farm
dams, along coastal inlets and bays. Feeds on grasses and herbs. Rare on open water.
Cosmopolitan sp. Inhabits freshwater, brackish or saline marshy wetlands both inland and coastal,
Page 52
COMMON NAME
SCIENTIFIC NAME
CONSERVATION
RATING
EPBC SA ML
Banded Lapwing
Vanellus tricolor
Banded Stilt
Cladorhynchus
leucocephalus
V
V
Bar-tailed Godwit
Limosa lapponica
R
R
Black Falcon
Falco subniger
C
U
Black Swan
Cygnus atratus
C
C
Black-faced Cormorant
Phalacrocorax fuscescens
C
C
Black-faced Cuckooshrike
Black-fronted Dotterel
Coracina novaehollandiae
C
C
Elseyornis melanops
C
C
Black-shouldered Kite
Elanus axillaris
C
C
Black-tailed Godwit
Limosa limosa
R
R
Black-tailed Native-hen
Tribonyx ventralis
C
C
Black-winged Stilt
Himantopus himantopus
C
C
Comments*
with dense vegetation. Feeds on invertebrates, crustaceans, molluscs, small fish, frogs, some
vegetation.
E & S Aust. Open areas such as paddocks with sparse short grass, overgrazed or ploughed farmland,
stony ground, bare dry mud at the edge of swamps, saline herbland. Feeds on invertebrates,
worms, molluscs, and at times seeds.
Mainly inland & S Aust. Nomadic. Inhabit mostly saline and hypersaline water, typically large, open
and shallow water of the inland and coast. Feed on crustaceans, molluscs, insects, vegetation, seeds
and roots.
Migratory sp. breeding in N hemisphere. In Australia inhabits estuarine mudflats, beaches and
mangroves. They are common in coastal areas around Australia. Probes mud for molluscs, worms
and aquatic insects.
Sparsely spread over mainland Aust. Prefers tree-lined watercourses (eg. River Murray) and tree
clumps. Feeds mostly on birds, small mammals, reptiles, insects.
Largely sedentary. Common on fresh and salt water, where-ever a wetland throughout Aust.
Included estuaries and bays. Feeds on aquatic plants, and less so grazing on land.
Strictly marine inshore bird breeding on rocky islands near coast, including Outer Harbour. Fishes by
diving deep.
Widespread Aust. Common in almost any wooded habitat including urban areas, except rainforests.
Feeds on insects and other invertebrates ,at times fruits and seeds.
Widespread in Aust. Inhabits shallow margins of wetlands, lakes, rivers, sewage farms, storm drains
and marshes, normally near freshwater. Rarer near coast. Feeds on small molluscs, also aquatic and
terrestrial insects.
Common throughout mainland Aust., usually grassland, farms. roadsides and other open habitats,
including coastal areas (eg. Torren Island). Feeds mainly on rodents including following mice
plagues. Also insects such as grasshoppers.
Migratory sp. breeding in N hemisphere. In Australia inhabits estuarine mudflats, beaches and
mangroves. More common in coastal areas around Australia. Probe shallows of exposed mud for
molluscs, worms and aquatic insects.
Nomadic and widespread throughout mainland Aust. Found near permanent or ephemeral
terrestrial wetlands in low rainfall areas, in both fresh or brackish water. feeds on seeds, plant
material and insects in open ground near wetlands or water edge.
Cosmopolitan and widespread over mainland Aust. Prefers fresh and saline water, marshes,
mudflats, and the shallow edges of lakes and rivers. Wades in shallow water for aquatic insects, but
Page 53
COMMON NAME
SCIENTIFIC NAME
CONSERVATION
RATING
EPBC SA ML
Comments*
also molluscs and crustaceans.
Blue Bonnet
Northiella haematogaster
C
V
Blue-billed Duck
Oxyura australis
R
R
Blue-winged Parrot
Neophema chrysostoma
V
V
Broad-tailed Sandpiper
Limicola facinellus
Brown Falcon
Falco berigora
C
C
Brown Goshawk
Accipiter fasciatus
C
C
Brown Quail
Coturnix ypsilophora
V
V
Brown Songlark
Cinclorhamphus cruralis
C
C
Brown Thornbill
Acanthiza pusilla
C
C
Brush Bronzewing
Phaps elegans
U
U
Budgerigar
Melopsittacus undulatus
C
C
Buff-rumped Thornbill
C
C
Caspian Tern
Acanthiza reguloides
australis
Hydroprogne caspia
Cattle Egret
Ardea ibis
R
R
M
Inhabits open woodland, scrub, riverine forest, spinifex, and farmlands in the eastern half of Aust.
Nests in low-lying tree openings. Feeds native grasses and herbs, nectar.
Sthn Aust. Almost entirely aquatic preferring deeper open freshwater lakes and dams. Feeds on
water surface and by diving for aquatic insects and less so aquatic plants. Rare salty areas.
Mainly breed SE Aust. Disperses non-breeding. Found coastal, sub-coastal, inland areas to semi-arid
zones. Favour grasslands and grassy woodlands often near wetlands. Feeds mainly on ground for
grass and herb seeds.
Migratory sp. breeding in N hemisphere. In Aust inhabits mostly estuarine mudflats, saltmarshes,
and reefs. Probes soft wet mud for crustaceans, worms, molluscs, seeds.
Very common widespread species throughout Aust. Especially farms and grasslands of ag areas with
tree or posts to rest on and observe prey. Hunt small mammals, reptiles, insects.
Widespread across Aust. Mostly in timbered habitat. Mostly hunt birds, but also take small
mammals (rabbits), reptiles and insects.
N & E Aust. Inhabits rank, overgrown grassy areas, often in damp, low-lying patches beside
wetlands. Feeds on ground, mainly on seeds and green shoots, but also insects.
Widespread where grassland or crops, including open shrublands, Acacia scrub, open woodland.
Benefited from ag. Feeds on ground on insects and some seeds.
Found E & SE Aust. Inhabit mostly dense shrubby areas including wet and dry forests, woodlands,
shrublands, heath and rainforests, along watercourses. Mainly feeds on insects, at times seeds,
nectar or fruit.
Found more towards the coast of E & sthn Australia (but not strictly a coastal sp.). Inhabits areas of
dense shrub layer, including coastal dunes, but further inland woodland, forest, mallee with a good
shrub layer. Feeds on seeds on ground. Usually builds fragile cup nest in shrubs.
Found much of mainland Aust., mainly arid and semi-arid areas. But can be found in agricultural
areas at times. Feed on seeds of native herbs and grasses.
Found E & SE Aust. Inhabits eucalypt open forests and woodlands with grassy or shrubby
understorey. Feeds on invertebrates
Widespread around virtually the entire Australian coastline, and also along inland major rivers. Feed
almost entirely on fish, by shallow plunging.
Originally native to Africa, Europe, Asia, now naturalised to other continents. Found grasslands
(pastures & crops), woodlands, wetlands. Partially migratory moving during winter. Feeds on
Page 54
COMMON NAME
SCIENTIFIC NAME
CONSERVATION
RATING
EPBC SA ML
Chestnut Teal
Anas castanea
U
U
Cockatiel
Nymphicus hollandicus
C
U
Collared Sparrowhawk
Accipiter cirrhocephalus
C
U
Common Bronzewing
Phaps chalcoptera
Common Greenshank
Tringa nebularia
C
C
Common Sandpiper
Actitus hypoleucos
R
R
Common Tern
Sterna hirundo
R
R
Crested Pigeon
Ocyphaps lophotes
C
C
Crested Tern
Thalasseus bergii
Crimson Chat
Epthianura tricolor
C
Crimson Rosella
Platycercus elegans
C
Curlew Sandpiper
Calidris ferruginea
C
C
Comments*
insects, particularly grasshoppers, but also frogs and lizards. Often follows cattle. Not common on
Torrens Is.
E & S Aust. Stronghold of coastal wetlands and estuaries, tolerating highly saline water. Will also use
freshwater lakes, reservoirs, sewerage ponds in the dry seaon. Mainly breeds coastal areas in
hollow trees in water or short grasslands near water. Eats seeds, insects, some vegetation. Feeds on
molluscs and crustaceans in more coastal habitats. Mainly feeds by dabbling at the water's edge
during the rising tide. Good sp. for Torrens Island area.
Widespread mainland Aust. but more likely inland open country. Feed on ground or in trees on
grass seeds, nuts, berries. Nests tree hollows.
Widespread throughout Aust. Mostly hunt small birds in flight, or at dawn at their roosting sites.
Also lizards, small mammals, insects
Widespread across Aust. Inhabiting almost every habitat type, except arid areas and rainforests.
Feeds on ground on seeds and other vegetable matter.
Migratory sp. breeding in N hemisphere. Widespread both on the coast and inland, in estuaries and
mudflats, mangrove swamps and lagoons, and in billabongs, swamps, sewage farms and flooded
crops. Feed on edges of mudflats and shallows on insects, worms, molluscs, small fish and
crustaceans.
Migratory sp. breeding in N hemisphere. In Australia inhabits coastal or inland wetlands, both saline
or fresh. Found mainly on muddy edges or rocky shores. Feeds on small molluscs, aquatic and
terrestrial insects.
Migratory sp. breeding in N hemisphere. In Australia inhabits mainly coastal areas and offshore
waters, ocean beaches, estuaries and large lakes. Feeds on small marine fish, also aquatic insects
and crustaceans
Once an inland bird that since European settlement is now widespread throughout mainland Aust.,
including urban areas. Prefers lightly wooded grasslands in both rural and urban areas, usually near
drinking water. Feed on ground mostly on various seeds, and at times insects.
Widespread around most of Australia coastline. Feeds mainly on small surface fish
Found semi-arid and arid areas mainly dominated by open shrublands, dunes, plains or grasslands.
Feed mostly on insects on or near ground.
E Aust. Found in eucalypt woodlands & forest. Feeds on eucalypt, grass and shrub seeds, also
insects. Nest tree hollows.
Migratory sp. breeding in N hemisphere. In Australia inhabits intertidal mudflats of estuaries,
Page 55
COMMON NAME
SCIENTIFIC NAME
CONSERVATION
RATING
EPBC SA ML
Double-banded Plover
Charadrius bicinctus
C
C
Dusky Moorhen
Gallinula tenebrosa
C
C
Eastern Curlew
Numenius madagascariensis
V
V
Eastern Great Egret
Ardea modesta
Eastern Reef Egret
Egretta sacra
R
V
Elegant Parrot
Neophema elegans
R
K
Eurasian Coot
Fulica atra
C
C
Fairy Martin
Petrochelidon ariel
C
C
Fairy Tern
Sterna nereis
E
E
Fan-tailed Cuckoo
Cacomantis flabelliformis
C
C
Galah
Eolophus rosiecapilla
C
C
Glossy Ibis
Plegadis falcinellus
R
R
M
V
Comments*
lagoons, mangroves, beaches, rocky shores, lakes, dams and floodwaters. Feeds on small marine
invertebrates, especially worms.
Migratory sp. From NZ. In Aust. found on mudflats and estuaries, coastal beaches, sewage farms,
river banks, fields, dunes, upland tussock grasses and shingle. Feeds on molluscs, crustaceans,
insects, and occasionally seeds and fruit.
E & S Aust. Inhabits swamps, rivers, and artificial waterways. Prefers open water and margins with
reeds, rushes and waterlilies. Also found grasses close to water such as parks, pastures and lawns.
Feeds on algae, water plants and grasses, also as seeds, fruits, molluscs, invertebrates.
Migratory sp. breeding in N hemisphere. In Australia inhabits intertidal mudflats and sandflats,
seagrass beds, sheltered coasts, especially estuaries, mangrove swamps, bays, harbours and
lagoons. Probes muddy flats mainly for small crabs and molluscs.
Widespread, cosmopolitan species. Found on a range of wetlands including lakes, rivers, swamps,
estuaries, saltmarsh, intertidal flats. Usually feed in shallow water on fish, frogs, invertebrates etc.
Found on seashore beaches, tidal rivers, inlets, mangroves, and more usually rocky reefs. Not
common southern Australia. Forages in shallow water for fish, crustaceans, molluscs. Quite rare for
Torrens Is.
Found Southern Aust. Feeds grass seeds on ground. Nests eucalypt tree hollows.
Cosmopolitan. Common in vegetated lagoons and swamps. Require submerged aquatic vegetation
or mats of floating waterweed for foraging. Largely dive to feed on vegetable matter, supplemented
with a few insects, worms and fish. Also forage on land and water surface.
Widespread largely where open country near water, usually near its nest sites, in cliffs, culverts or
bridges. Feeds high in the air on flying insects.
Southern & W Australia coast. Inhabits isolated sandy inlets and along the coast, including beaches,
inshore and offshore islands, sheltered inlets, sewage farms, harbours, estuaries and lagoons. It
favours both fresh and saline wetlands and near-coastal terrestrial wetlands .Feeds almost entirely
on fish.
E & southern Aust. Where eucalypt forest, woodland, mallee, heath. Feeds on insects and larvae,
especially hairy caterpillars.
Now widespread through Aust. But formerly semi-arid areas. Spread into agricultural areas since
European settlement. Prefers timbered habitat near water. Feed on seed on ground. Nests tree
hollows.
Nomadic, following Australian rainfall events, but found along margins of rivers and swamps in
Page 56
COMMON NAME
SCIENTIFIC NAME
CONSERVATION
RATING
EPBC SA ML
Golden Whistler
Pachycephala pectoralis fuliginosa
C
C
Golden-headed Cisticola
Cisticola exilis
U
V
Great Cormorant
Phalacrocorax carbo
C
C
Great Crested Grebe
Podiceps cristatus
R
R
Great Egret
Ardea alba
C
C
Great Knot
Calidris tenuirostris
M
R
R
Greater Sand Plover
Charadrius leschenaultii
M
R
R
Grey Butcherbird
Cracticus torquatus leucopterus
C
U
Grey Fantail
Rhipidura fuliginosa
C
C
Grey Plover
Pluvialis squatarola
Grey Shrike-thrush
Colluricincla harmonica
C
C
Grey Teal
Anas gracilis
C
C
Grey-tailed Tattler
Tringa brevipes
R
R
Hardhead
Aythya australasica
U
U
Comments*
summer. However more common in Nthn Aust. Than SA. Needs shallow water such as floodplains
and mudflats, including mangroves. Feeds by probing mud on crustaceans, frogs, invertebrates.
E & southern Aust. Found almost any wooded habitat, including rainforest, forest, woodland,
mallee. Feed on insects, spiders and at times berries.
Widespread where sub-coastal areas with long, dense grass, such as wetlands, swamp margins, wet
grasslands, rivers, and irrigated farmland. Feed on insects and seeds on ground amongst tall grasses.
Cosmopolitan. Common & widespread distribution on inland freshwater and less so coastal
estuaries and inlets. Breeding colonies on River Murray & Lakes. Dives for fish & crustaceans.
Aquatic species. Open fresh and salt water areas. Nomadic. Feeds on aquatic insects and fish.
Widespread, cosmopolitan species. Found on a range of inland wetlands and and adjacent grasses,
but also estuaries, intertidal flats. Usually feed in shallow water on fish, frogs, invertebrates, reptiles
etc.
Migratory sp. breeding in N hemisphere. In Australia found where coastal mudflats. Feeds in
shallow water on invertebrates.
Migratory sp. breeding in N hemisphere. In Austrlia found on coastal tidal sandbanks. Feeds on
insects and crustaceans.
Found E, S, W Aust. Inhabit a range of wooded habitats, especially drier areas. Prey on small birds,
lizards and insects, and at times feed on fruits and seeds.
Widespread Aust. in most treed habitats, especially wodland and forest. Not an urban bird in
Adelaide. Feeds on flying insects.
Migratory sp. breeding in N hemisphere. In Aust. inhabits marine shores, inlets, estuaries and
lagoons with large tidal mudflats or sandflats. Roosts sandy beaches. Feed on molluscs, insects,
crustaceans, worms, and occasionally plants and seeds.
Widespread Aust. except arid areas, but prefers woodland and forest. Feeds mostly on ground on a
varied diet of insects, spiders, small mammals, frogs and lizards, and young birds and bird eggs.
Widespread nomadic species, following rainfall events across the continent. Found in all sheltered
watered areas. Feeds on grass, aquatic plants, seeds, crustaceans, invertebrates.
Migratory sp. breeding in N hemisphere. In Aust. Inhabits sheltered coasts with reefs, rock
platforms or intertidal mudflats. Feeds on worms, molluscs, crustaceans (especially small crabs),
insects and, occasionally, fish.
Mostly freshwater wetlands and swamps, and less often sheltered estuaries. Dive for aquatic plants
and molluscs. Would be rare at Torrens Is area.
Page 57
COMMON NAME
SCIENTIFIC NAME
CONSERVATION
RATING
EPBC SA ML
C
C
Hoary-headed Grebe
Poliocephalus poliocephalus
Hooded Robin
Melanodryas cucullata cucullata
R
V
Horsfield's Bronzecuckoo
Chalcites basalis
C
C
Inland Dotterel
Peltohyas australis
C
Inland Thornbill
Acanthiza apicalis
C
Intermediate Egret
Ardea intermedia
R
R
Kelp Gull
Larus dominicanus
R
R
Lesser Sand Plover
Charadrius mongolus
R
R
Lewin's Rail
Lewinia pectoralis
V
V
Little Black Cormorant
Phalacrocorax sulcirostris
C
C
Little Corella
Cacatua sanguinea
C
C
Little Curlew
Numenius minutus
Little Eagle
Hieraaetus morphnoides
U
U
Little Egret
Egretta garzetta
R
R
M
Comments*
Aquatic species. Open fresh and salt water areas. Feeds on aquatic insects.
Widespread, but more commonly SE Aust. Inhabit lightly timbered woodland, mainly dominated by
Allocasuarina, acacia, eucalypts. Feed mainly on insects.
Widespread where open wooded habitats with a range of understorey from grass to shrubs or
heath. At times treed farmland. Mostly feeds on insects and their larvae, especially hairy
caterpillars.
Mainly inland semi-arid and arid zones of mainland Australia. Rarely coastal except EP & Nullarbor.
Highly unusual here. Not likely or typical habitat.
Widespread more an inland sp. Inhabits dry eucalypt and Callitris woodlands, mallee and acacia
scrublands. Feeds on small insects, spiders, at times seeds.
Coastal and inland fresh and salt water wetlands including mangroves and tidal flats. Feeds on
invertebrates, and also fish, frogs hunting in shallow water. Rare in SA & Torren Is area. More
common northern Aust.
Became established in Australia in the 1940s. Now found SE & SW coasts. Prefers sheltered bays,
inlets and estuaries, and also beaches and reefs on off-shore islands. Feeds mainly on fish and
crustaceans.
Migratory sp. breeding in N hemisphere. In Aust. Inhabits coastal area of intertidal sandflats or
mudflats in sheltered bays, harbours. estuaries, and occasionally sandy ocean beaches, coral reefs,
wave-cut rock platforms, rocky outcrops, saltmarsh, mangroves. Feed on invertebrates, molluscs,
worms, crustaceans (especially crabs) and insects.
Widespread mainland Aust. Inhabits dense reeds and vegetation bordering many types of wetlands
or crops, including sewage ponds and drainage channels. Feeds on crustaceans, molluscs, insects,
seeds, fruit, frogs, carrion and refuse.
Strictly aquatic. More common fresh than salt water, but can be found in sheltered coastal waters.
Often resting jetties and rocks. Dives for fish, crustaceans, aquatic invertebrates.
Widespread through Aust. Various habitats esp. watercourses. Feed on ground mostly on seeds and
grain. Nests tree hollows.
Migratory sp. breeding in N hemisphere. In Australia more common N Aust. Inhabits coastal and
inland grasslands, swamps and flooded areas. Feeds mostly on insects, as well as seeds and berries.
Widespread in Aust. Found open woodland and open forest, also open areas. Mostly hunt rabbits,
but also small to medium-sized reptiles, birds and mammals, insects.
Coastal and inland fresh and salt water wetlands including mangroves and tidal flats. Feeds on
Page 58
COMMON NAME
SCIENTIFIC NAME
CONSERVATION
RATING
EPBC SA ML
Little Grassbird
Megalurus gramineus
C
C
Little Lorikeet
Glossopsitta pusilla
E
E
Little Pied Cormorant
Microcarbo melanoleucos
C
C
Little Raven
Corvus mellori
C
C
Little Wattlebird
Anthochaera chrysoptera
U
U
Long-toed Stint
Calidris subminuta
R
R
Magpie-lark
Grallina cyanoleuca
C
C
Marsh Sandpiper
Tringa stagnatilis
Masked Lapwing
Vanellus miles
C
C
Masked Woodswallow
Artamus personatus
C
C
Mistletoebird
Dicaeum hirundinaceum
C
C
Musk Duck
Biziura lobata
R
R
Musk Lorikeet
Glossopsitta concinna
C
C
Nankeen Kestrel
Falco cenchriodes
C
C
M
Comments*
invertebrates, and also fish, frogs hunting in shallow water. Rare in SA & Torren Is area. More
common northern Aust.
Widespread E & southern Aust. Inhabits more freshwater swamps, marshes, especially with reeds,
also temporary wetlands after rains. Feeds on insects and arthropods. Nests in reeds.
Found E Aust. Inhabiting open mostly eucalypt forests and woodland, lesser extent mallee. Feed on
pollen and nectar. Nest hollow tree branches.
Widespread aquatic species. More common inland than coastal waters of almost any size, but also
readily found on tidal waters. Dives for fish, crustaceans, aquatic invertebrates.
Found SE Aust. In forest, woodland, Acacia scrub, and into urban areas. Omnivorous feeder on
carrion, insects, plants.
Found SE & SW Aust. Prefers drier and often scrubby habitats, such as banksia heaths, forests,
woodlands and urban parks and gardens. Feeds mostly on nectar, but at times insects, flowers,
berries, seeds.
Migratory sp. breeding in N hemisphere. In Aust. Inhabits drying margins of shallow freshwater
lakes and ponds, and less often beaches. Feeds on invertebrates by probing mud.
Widespread Aust. in many habitats with mud supply for nest building, including urban areas. Not
found in deserts. Feeds mostly on ground on insects, larvae, earthworms and freshwater
invertebrates. Mud nests built in trees.
Migratory sp. breeding in N hemisphere. In Aust. inhabits fresh or brackish wetlands such as rivers,
water meadows, sewage ponds, drains, lagoons and swamps. Feed by wading through shallow
water on aquatic insects, larvae, molluscs and crustaceans.
Widespread Australia & adjacent areas. Inhabits open areas of marshes, mudflats, beaches,
grasslands, including urban areas. Feed on insects and larvae, earthworms.
Widespread in open woodlands. Feeds on flying insects on the wing, at times nectar.
Widespread mainland Aust. Wherever mistletoe found. Highly adapted to a diet of mistletoe
berries.
Found on most waters, freshwater or salt in southern Aust. But often freshwater fringed with reeds.
Can be found in water just offshore along the coast. Feed by diving for aquatic invertebrates, fish,
frogs, crustaceans, molluscs
Found Southern Aust. Inhabits tall, open, eucalypt forest and woodlands. Feed mainly on eucalypt
pollen and nectar. Nest hollow tree branches.
Widespread in most of Aust. Especially lightly wooded and open agricultural areas. Mainly hunts
Page 59
COMMON NAME
SCIENTIFIC NAME
CONSERVATION
RATING
EPBC SA ML
Nankeen Night Heron
Nycticorax caledonicus
U
U
New Holland
Honeyeater
Noisy Miner
Phylidonyris
novaehollandiae
Manorina melanocephala
C
C
C
C
Orange Chat
Epthinaura aurifrons
C
Pacific Black Duck
Anas superciliosa
C
C
Pacific Golden Plover
Pluvialis fulva
R
R
Pacific Gull
Larus pacificus
U
U
Pallid Cuckoo
Cacomantis pallidus
C
C
Pectoral Sandpiper
Calidris melanotus
R
R
Peregrine Falcon
Falco peregrinus
R
R
Pied Cormorant
Phalacrocorax varius
C
C
Pied Oystercatcher
Haematopus longirostris
R
R
Pink-eared Duck
Malacorhynchus membranaceus
C
C
Purple Swamphen
Porphyrio porphyrio
C
C
M
Comments*
small mammals, reptiles, small birds, insects. Prey is located from a perch or by hovering a short
distance above the ground.
Widespread in most of Australia, where well vegetated wetlands such as mangroves, tree-lined
watercourses, swamps, lagoons. Breeds in area. Spends most of the day roosting, emerging at
twilight. Feeds at night in shallow water on fish, frogs, crustaceans, invertebrates.
Found Southern Aust. Common in heath, forests, woodland and gardens. Feed mostly nectar, also
fruit, insects and spiders.
Found E & SE Aust. Inhabits woodlands, open forests, urban parks and gardens. Feeds largely on
nectar, fruits and insects.
Widespread, especially inland Aust., mostly absent from ag regions. Feeds on ground on insects.
Very common widespread species. Found in all types of water, including tidal mudflats. Feeds on
seeds and aquatic plants, supplemented by small crustaceans, molluscs and aquatic invertebrates.
Migratory sp. breeding in N hemisphere. In Australia inhabits muddy, rocky and sandy wetlands,
seashore, paddocks, saltmarsh, coastal golf courses, estuaries and lagoons. Feeds on molluscs,
insects, worms, crustaceans, lizards, at times bird eggs and small fish
Found southern Aust. Coast, breeding on offshore islands. Prefers sandy, or less often, rocky coasts,
also estuaries, bays and harbours. Forages along coasts between the high-water mark and shallow
water on sandy beaches, feeding mainly on molluscs, fish, birds and other marine animals.
Widespread, where open forests and woodlands, also cleared and cultivated open country. Has a
liking for hairy caterpillars, but will take other insects and their larvae.
Migratory sp. breeding in N hemisphere. In Australia inhabits fresh and saltwater marshes,
mudflats, or drying lakes and wet meadows. Feed on small crustaceans, aquatic invertebrates.
Cosmopolitan species, but uncommonly spread across Aust. For nesting prefers coastal and inland
cliffs or open woodlands near water, and may even be found nesting on high city buildings (eg
Adelaide Uni.). Feeds on small to medium birds especially feral pigeons in flight, rabbits on ground.
Aquatic mostly coastal species, common on salt water in estuaries, bays, harbours etc., but less so
freshwater. Dives for fish. Breeds coastal islands.
Coastal areas throughout Aust. With mudflats, sandbanks and sandy ocean beaches. Less common
along rocky or shingle coastlines. Feeds bivalve molluscs, also worms, crustaceans and insects.
Widespread and nomadic species. Prefers warm shallow temporary water with adjacent well
timbered areas, although can congregate in open water. Filter feeds algae and invertebrates.
Common E & S Aust. & Sth Pacific. Various wetlands. Feeds on soft shoots of reeds and rushes, bird
Page 60
COMMON NAME
SCIENTIFIC NAME
CONSERVATION
RATING
EPBC SA ML
Comments*
eggs, frogs, snails.
Purple-crowned Lorikeet
Purple-gaped
Honeyeater
Rainbow Lorikeet
Glossopsitta
porphyrocephala
Lichenostomus cratitius
More a mallee species of Southern Aust. Feeds on mallee blossums.
U
Trichoglossus haematodus
C
C
Red Knot
Calidris canutus
Red Wattlebird
Anthochaera carunculata
C
C
Red-capped Plover
Charadrius ruficapillus
C
C
Red-capped Robin
Petroica goodenovii
C
U
Red-kneed Dotterel
Erythrogonys cinctus
C
C
Red-necked Avocet
Revurvirostra
novaehollandiae
C
C
Red-necked Stint
Calidris ruficollis
C
C
Red-rumped Parrot
Psephotus haematonotus
C
C
Richard's Pipit
Anthus novaeseelandiae
C
C
Found southern Aust. Inhabits mallee heath. Feeds largely on eucalypt and Banksia nectar, also
insects.
Found coastal and sub-coastal areas of N & E Aust. Habitat of treed areas, including woodland,
forest, urban areas. Harvests nectar and pollen, also fruits, seeds and some insects. Usually nests in
hollow eucalypt branches.
Migratory sp. breeding in N hemisphere. In Australia inhabits on the coast in sandy estuaries with
tidal mudflats
Found southern Aust. Inhabits forests, woodlands and urban gardens. Feeds largely on nectar, also
insects.
Widespread mainland Aust. Along coastline and arid areas. Nests on beaches. Prefers saline and
brackish waters. Forages on mudflats, sandy beaches and salt marsh for molluscs, small crustaceans
and some vegetation.
More common in semi-arid or arid areas, but generally inland habitats with eucalypts, Acacia,
Callitris woodlands. Forages on the ground or in low vegetation for insects and other invertebrates.
Widespread mainland Aust. More N areas. Inhabits wetlands, lagoons and swamps, preferring fresh
water and areas prone to flooding. Feeds on aquatic insects, larvae and seeds.
Widespread in Aust. Prefers salt or brackish water, generally found in shallow water either fresh or
salt, or estuarine mudflats. Feeds by wading in shallow water on aquatic insects, larvae, crustaceans
and seeds.
Migratory sp. breeding in N hemisphere. Widespread around coast of Aust. mainland. In Aust. found
on the coast, sheltered inlets, bays, lagoons, estuaries, intertidal mudflats, sandy or coralline shores.
Also saltworks, sewage farms, saltmarsh, shallow wetlands including lakes, swamps, riverbanks,
waterholes, bore drains, dams, soaks and pools in saltflats, flooded paddocks or damp grasslands.
Omnivorous feeders mostly on mudflats, feeding on seeds, insects, small vertebrates, plants in
saltmarshes, molluscs, gastropods and crustaceans.
SE Aust. Inhabits open grasslands or lightly timbered plains, also along watercourses, mallee areas
where water available, urban areas. Largely feeds on ground on seeds, grass leaves. Also feed on
seeds, fruits and flowers in trees. Nest usually hollow in eucalypt.
Widespread. Inhabit open country, including grassland, wet heaths, dry shrublands and open
Page 61
COMMON NAME
SCIENTIFIC NAME
CONSERVATION
RATING
EPBC SA ML
Comments*
woodland clearings. Feed on the ground on insects, larvae, seeds. Nest on ground.
Rock Parrot
Neophema petrophila
R
R
Royal Spoonbill
Platalea regia
U
U
Ruddy Turnstone
Arenaria interpres
R
R
Ruff
Philomachus pugnax
R
R
Rufous Songlark
Cinclorhamphus mathewsi
C
C
Rufous Whistler
Pachycephala rufiventris
C
C
Sacred Kingfisher
Todyramphos sancta
C
C
Sharp-tailed Sandpiper
Calidris acuminata
C
C
Shining Bronze-cuckoo
Chrysococcyx lucidus
U
U
Silver Gull
Chroicocephalus novaehollandiae
C
C
Silvereye
Zosterops lateralis
C
C
M
Found rocky coastline of S and W Aust. Inhabits and restricted to coastlines and offshore rocky
islands, frequenting windswept coastal dunes, mangroves, saline swamps and rocky islets. Feeds on
seeds, fruits of grasses, rushes, shrubs and salt-tolerant plants. Mostly nests on offshore Is in rock
crevices, abandoned seabird nesting burrow, or on a rocky ledges. Not Torrens Is.
Nomadic throughout N & E Aust. Found in fresh and salt wetlands, intertidal mudflats and wet
grasslands. Feeds on fish (freshwater), shrimps (mudflats), but also aquatic insects, sweeping the
shallow water with its bill.
Migratory sp. breeding in N hemisphere. Widespread around coast of Aust. mainland. In Aust.
inhabits mainly exposed rocks or reefs, often with shallow pools, also beaches. Feeds by turning
over stones and seaweed to find insects, crustaceans, molluscs and spiders.
Migratory sp. breeding in N hemisphere. In Australia generally found on fresh, brackish or saline
wetlands with exposed mudflats at the edges. Includes lakes, swamps, pools, lagoons, tidal rivers,
swampy fields, floodlands, and occasionally sheltered coasts, harbours, estuaries, seashores,
saltworks. Forages on exposed mudflats, in shallow water and occasionally on dry mud. In Aust
omnivorous feeding on moss, plant fibre, seeds, annelids, molluscs, crustaceans, spiders, insects,
fish and amphibians
Widespread inhabiting plains dominated by grass, including open woodland and Acacia scrub. Feeds
on ground on seeds and insects.
Widespread Aust. especially in areas with a shrubby cover (forests, woodlands and shrublands).
Feeds on insects, and sometimes seeds, fruit or leaves, but rarely found on ground.
Widespread Aust. near the coast (but not a coastal sp.). Inhabits woodlands, mangroves and forests.
More a terrestrial hunter than fishing in water, it mainly feeds on crustaceans, reptiles, insects,
larvae and at times fish.
Migratory sp. breeding in N hemisphere. In Aust. inhabits grassy edges of shallow inland freshwater
wetlands. Also found around sewerage ponds, flooded fields, mudflats, mangroves, rocky shores
and beaches. Forages shallow water for aquatic insects, larvae, worms, molluscs, crustaceans.
E & southern Aust. Inhabit eucalypt forest and woodland. Feeds on insects, spiders, caterpillars.
Any watered habitat, but especially the coast. Population greatly expanded since WW2. Feeds on
worms, fish, insects and crustaceans, but is a successful scavenger, including refuse tips.
E & southern Australia Inhabit almost any wooded habitat, including orchards, urban parks and
gardens. Feeds on insects, fruit and nectar.
Page 62
COMMON NAME
SCIENTIFIC NAME
Singing Honeyeater
Lichenostomus virescens
CONSERVATION
RATING
EPBC SA ML
C
C
Slender-billed Thornbill
Acanthiza iredalei iredalei
V
Sooty Oystercatcher
Haematopus fuliginosus
R
V
Southern Boobook
Ninox novaeseelandiae
C
C
Spiny-cheeked
Honeyeater
Acanthogenys rufogularis
C
U
Spotless Crake
Porzana tabuensis
R
R
Spotted Harrier
Circus assimilis
C
C
Spotted Pardalote
Pardalotus punctatus punctatus
U
U
Straw-necked Ibis
Threskiornis spinicollis
C
C
Striated Pardalote
Pardalotus striatus
C
C
Stubble Quail
Coturnix pectoralis
C
C
Superb Fairy-wren
Malurus cyaneus leggei
C
C
Swamp Harrier
Circus approximans
C
C
Terek Sandpiper
Xenus cinereus
R
R
R
Comments*
Very widespread across Aust. Inhabits mostly open shrubland, low woodland, especially dominated
by acacias. Feeds on nectar, insects and fruit.
More likely rosinae of Gulf St Vincent area. Inhabits samphire. Feeds largely on insects.
Widespread coastal E & S Aust. Strictly coastal, usually forage along rocky or coral coasts, but
sometimes also on adjacent sandy beaches. Feeds on molluscs, crustaceans, also at times marine
worms, starfish and sea urchins, and small fish.
Widespread in Aust. in various habitats. feeds mostly at night on on insects, small mammals (esp.
mice). Mostly nest in tree hollows.
Widespread across Aust. Inhabits dry woodlands, mallee, acacia scrub, but more importantly for
Torrens Is. coastal scrubs and occasionally mangroves .Feeds mainly on nectar, fruit, but may also
eat insects, reptiles and baby birds.
Australia & S Pacific. Inhabits mangroves, marsh, saltmarsh, bogs, scrub. Feeds on insects and at
times berries.
Sparsely distributed, but widespread, its stronghold more the arid & semi-arid areas. Mostly open
woodland. Hunts ground birds s(eg. quail and pipits), also mice, rats, rabbits and lizards.
Found E & southern Aust. Found mostly in eucalypt forests and woodlands but can occur in parks
and gardens with eucalypts. Forages in tree foliage for insects, especially psyllids.
Nomadic following Aust. Rainfall events. Can be found in wet and dry grassland, pasture, crop,
wetland margins. Rarely coastal shores, mudflats or mangroves. Mainly feeds on terrestrial
invertebrates esp. grasshoppers, but also frogs etc.
Widespread where treed habitats, especially eucalypts. Feed in the tree top foliage on a wide
variety of insects and larvae.
Ag. areas of southern Aust. Inhabits cereal crops, stubble and leafy crops, wet grasslands, coastal
heaths, roadsides and neglected pastures. Feeds on seeds, green grasses, insects, caterpillars and
small frogs.
Found E & SE Aust. Most habitats with lower dense shrub cover. Feed on invertebrates.
Widespread over Australasia. Mainly seen in fresh or salt wetlands, often in deep swamps with
emergent reeds and over open water. Hunt for birds and eggs, large insects, frogs, reptiles and
small mammals up to the size of hares or rabbits.
Migratory sp. breeding in N hemisphere. In Australia inhabits coast in mangrove swamps, tidal
mudflats, seashore. Probe shallow water and soft wet intertidal mudflalts for crustaceans and
insects.
Page 63
COMMON NAME
SCIENTIFIC NAME
CONSERVATION
RATING
EPBC SA ML
C
C
Tree Martin
Petrochelidon nigricans
Welcome Swallow
Hirundo neoxena
C
C
Whimbrel
Numenius phaeopus
R
R
Whiskered Tern
Chlidonias hybridus
Whistling Kite
Haliastur sphenurus
C
U
White-browed Scrubwren
White-faced Heron
Sericornis frontalis
C
U
Egretta novaehollandiae
C
C
White-fronted Chat
Epthinaura albifrons
C
C
White-fronted Tern
Sterna striata
White-necked Heron
Ardea pacifica
U
U
White-plumed
Honeyeater
Lichenostomus penicillatus
C
C
White-winged Black
Tern
Chlidonias leucopterus
O
O
White-winged Fairywren
Willie Wagtail
Malurus leucopterus
C
Rhipidura leucophrys
C
M
C
Comments*
Widespread Aust. where treed, as nests in tree hollows, but can use buildings and bridges as
substitute nest sites. Hawks for insects above tree tops or at times the sea.
Very widespread Aust. Distribution except forests and very arid areas. Includes city buildings,
farmland, wetlands. Hawk for insects in flight.
Migratory sp. breeding in N hemisphere. In Australia, inhabits mainly coast, on tidal and estuarine
mudflats, especially near mangroves. Feed on intertidal mudflats day and night, on worms,
crustaceans, occasionally fish and nestling birds.
Found most regions of Aust. except arid zone. Prefers shallow terrestrial freshwater wetlands and
swamps, brackish and saline lakes, floodwaters, sewage ponds, irrigated crops, large dams. Feed by
hawking, dipping, or plunging mainly for small fish, amphibians, crustaceans, insects, larvae.
Widespread over Aust. Found around mostly wetlands, but also woodlands and open country.
Feeds mainly on carrion, but during the breeding season takes live prey, especially rabbits and
hares, fish, reptiles, birds, small mammals and invertebrates.
Found E and southern Australia in open forest, woodland and heaths. Feeds largely on
invertebrates and at times some seeds.
Widespread, common on various wetlands large and small, around lakes, swamps, farm dams, tidal
flats, salt marsh. Forages on various small aquatic animals (fish, invertebrates, frogs).
Widespread across southern Australia Common in salt marsh. Feed on insects.
Found SE coastal seas and exposed rocky coasts of Aust. (&NZ). Also less so on sheltered sandy
beaches of bays, harbours, estuaries. Feeds on fish on or just below water surface.
More likely found on inland Aust. freshwater rivers, swamps, it can migrate to the tidal coastal
waters during drought. Wades through shallow water of grass feeding on fish, crustaceans, frods,
insects.
Found E & S Aust. Inhabits open forests and woodlands (esp E. camaldulensis), often near water and
wetlands, urban areas. Feeds on nectar, insects, lerps and honeydew. Nest an open cup, often in
crown of tree.
Migratory sp. breeding in N hemisphere. In Australia widespread inhabiting coastal and sub-coastal
north, east, and south-east Aust. Found on tidal estuaries, lagoons, grassy swamps, and sewage
ponds. Feeds by hawking, dipping and diving for insects, spiders and fish.
Largely found inland and semi-arid coastlines of mainland Australia, with chenopod shrublands. This
includes margins of salt lakes, coastal inlets and saltfields.
Widespread mainland Aust. Including urban areas. Mostly prefer open woodlands and forest.
Page 64
COMMON NAME
SCIENTIFIC NAME
CONSERVATION
RATING
EPBC SA ML
Comments*
Actively hunt for insects on ground.
Wood Sandpiper
Tringa glareola
R
R
Yellow-billed Spoonbill
Platalea flavipes
C
C
Yellow-rumped Thornbill
Acanthiza chrysorrhoa
C
C
Zebra Finch
Taeniopygia guttata
C
U
Migratory sp. breeding in N hemisphere. In Australia widespread inhabiting shallow freshwater
wetlands, often with other waders. Prefer areas with emergent reeds and grass, surrounded by tall
plants or dead trees. Feed on aquatic insects and larvae, molluscs in moist or dry mud.
Nomadic throughout Aust. Mostly found shallow waters of freshwater wetlands such as dams,
lagoons swamps, and more coastal areas. Feeds on aquatic invertebrates, sweeping the water with
its bill.
Found E & SE Aust. Found on ground in open habitats, such as woodlands, forests, shrublands,
grasslands with some trees. Also common in agricultural areas, along watercourses, beside roads.
Feeds largely on ground on insects, at times seeds.
Widespread especially arid and semi-arid areas. Feed on ground on ripening grass seeds, also
insects.
*Provided by Tim Croft, Ornithologist, desktop assessment and expert opinion
Page 65
Appendix 3: Weed control methods
Page 66
Bushland weeding code
From: Robertson, M., Grant, I., Craigie, A.I. (2005) Stop Bushland Weeds: A Guide to Successful
Weeding in South Australia's Bushland. Nature Conservation Society of South Australia.
•
•
•
•
•
•
•
•
•
•
•
Look before you weed—know where the native plants are.
Choose the most effective and selective weeding technique for the plant and the
location.
Disturb soil as little as possible. Replace any disturbed soil, press it down and replace
plant litter.
Adapt to the season and weather conditions. Don’t pull or grub weeds when the soil is
dry and roots break off when pulled, or tramp through when soil is so soft that your feet
damage plants at each step.
Minimise the amount of trampling over the site and scatter the team of workers so that
they do not form a new trail. Wear soft soled shoes and clothes which do not carry weed
seeds or drag on foliage. Wear gloves.
Before you pull, grub or poison large weeds, pull the small weeds which are growing
underneath them.
Avoid damage to native plants. Don’t drop or fell large weeds onto native plants or drag
boughs through the bush.
Remove from the bush any parts of weeds which could regrow: ripe fruits, seed heads,
bulbs, rhizomes and runners. Break up the rest into small pieces and leave them
scattered to form mulch, especially over the spots where weeds have been removed.
Do follow up work before moving on to weed a new area.
Remove weed seeds or bulbils which could scatter into the weeded zone.
Where native plants are regenerating among dense weeds, clear them some growing
space but do not create large openings.
Page 67
The following information has been adapted from a draft document, originally produced by the Bush
Management Advisors, SA Department for Environment and Heritage, as an Appendix to their own
Management Action Plan Guide.
Weed Control Information
CONTENTS:
1
1
Weed Control – a Summary of Control Methods
2
Herbicides
2.1
Terms to Become Familiar With
2.2
Active Ingredients for Bushland Weed Control
Weed Control – a Summary of Control Methods
Always think about weed control as a long term project. Numerous follow-up treatments will be
required before weeds are fully eradicated.
To promote the replacement of weeds by native plants ensure you minimise the disturbance to
existing native plants and to the soil as you control the weeds.
Always start weed control work from the area of good bush and work towards the more degraded
areas.
Where native animals are using the weed infestations as habitat, for instance the Southern Brown
Bandicoot often survives because of the protection afforded by dense thickets of Blackberry, remove
those weeds slowly so that the habitat can be replaced by native species. You don’t want to remove
all of your native animals as you remove the weeds from your property.
Consider the future of the site as the weeds are removed, in relation to soil erosion and slope
stability.
Many weed control options involve the use of herbicides. Keep yourself, other people and your
property safe. Use herbicides only in accordance with the relevant recommendations (label, permits
etc) and only treat weeds when they are actively growing. Always use the recommended safety
equipment and have water available for washing should there be any herbicide contact with your
skin.
Hand Pull
Tools and Equipment:
Gloves
Page 68
Safety Equipment :
None
Especially good for soft annual weeds and seedlings of woody weeds.
Firmly grip the stem of the weed near ground level and pull the root out of the ground.
Beware of back injury. Care must be taken to minimise soil disturbance by for example putting
one foot on the ground on either side of the weed to keep the surrounding soil from lifting up
and/or waiting until after rain when the soil is wet so the plant comes up more easily.
Digging or
Grubbing
Tools and Equipment :
Narrow trowel, small grubbing tool (like a small mattock)
Safety Equipment :
None
Especially useful for weeds with underground storage organs (lignotubers, bulbs etc) and
individual weeds in bushland areas.
Dig out the underground part of the weed and remove it from the site. The draw backs with
this method include the amount of soil disturbance which can promote the establishment of
other weeds at the site (this can be minimised by replacing the dislodged soil and leaf litter
after the weed is removed), and if not all of the underground parts are removed the weed
may resprout.
Cut and Swab
Tools and Equipment :
Safety Equipment :
Cut using secateurs, loppers, a handsaw or chainsaw depending on
weed size. Herbicide application using a sponge-topped plastic
bottle similar to a shoe polish bottle.
Safety glasses, strong rubber gloves, water for washing
Especially useful for woody weeds.
Cut the stem(s) close to or at ground level. Keep the applicator sponge clean as contact with
the soil may inactivate the herbicide. Apply the herbicide to the cut stump as soon as possible
after cutting and definitely within 30 seconds. Systemic herbicides are used in this method
which move to and kill the roots of the weed. Stem Scape and Swab : If the underground
parts of the weed are extensive, more herbicide will be needed to kill it. In this case cut the
stems higher above the ground and after cutting, scrape off the outer layer (skin) of the
remaining part of the stem and apply herbicide to this area as well as to the cut.
Ringbark
Tools and Equipment :
Safety Equipment :
Hatchet, machete, hand saw or chainsaw.
Safety glasses, gloves
Page 69
Especially useful for pine trees.
As close to the ground as possible chop out a 2-5cm wide section of the bark and sap wood,
exposing the heart wood, to form a disk that completely encircles the tree. For pines, no
herbicide need be applied. For other weeds apply herbicide as per the Cut and Swab
information above. Ensure that when the tree dies and eventually falls that it will fall into safe
place.
Wipe On
Tools and Equipment :
Wick-wand, or ‘Tongs of Death’ and plastic squeeze bottle with a
long narrow tube coming out of the lid
Safety Equipment :
Safety glasses, strong rubber gloves, water for washing
Especially useful for strap-leaf species such as Watsonia in areas where they are surrounded by
native plants.
The herbicide is applied to the wick-wand or Tongs of Death (kitchen tongs with sponges
securely attached), and then the leaves of the weed are wiped. Both sides of the leaf should
be coated with herbicide.
Drill and Fill
Tools and Equipment :
Cordless/battery drill with 6mm drill bit. Plastic squeeze bottle with
a long narrow tube coming out of the lid.
Safety Equipment :
Safety glasses, strong rubber gloves, water for washing
Especially useful for larger woody weeds. The weed is left standing after the treatment,
minimising the control effort required and maximising the habitat value.
Clear any low branches away to allow good access to the base of the weed. Clear soil and leaf
litter away from the base of the stem. Drill a series of holes 5 – 10mm deep at a 45o angle (or
steeper if possible) into the base of the stem, or into the lignotuber if it is visible. A lignotuber
is a swollen part of the lower stem which is a type of storage organ. The holes should be drilled
2 - 4cm apart around the base. Fill the holes with herbicide as soon as possible after drilling.
Before leaving to start on another plant check the holes and refill them with herbicide. Frill
and Fill: A variation of the Drill and Fill method where a hatchet or machete is used to make
lots of horizontal cuts all around the base of the stem so that each cut can hold the herbicide.
Apply the herbicide as soon as possible after cutting.
Spot Spray
Tools and Equipment :
Hand-held spray bottle, backpack spray unit or vehicle mounted
spray unit
Safety Equipment :
Safety glasses, mask or ventilator, strong rubber gloves, water for
Page 70
washing, other equipment as specified on the herbicide label.
Especially useful for large infestations and/or where off target damage to native species (eg
spray drift) is unlikely.
It is very important to ensure you mix the herbicide to the correct dilution for the target weed,
as per the label instruction, or in some cases the Off-label Permit instructions. Check on the
label to see if a surfactant (also known as a wetting agent) or penetrant is recommended. The
weed must be in an active growing stage for the herbicide to work effectively. Ensure a good
cover of the herbicide on both sides of the leaves. To minimise off-target damage from spray
drift, adjust the nozzle to get droplets of the correct size to cover the leaf (not too small to
blow away between the nozzle and the leaf and not too big to dribble off the leaf once it hits),
use a shield over the spray nozzle and don’t spray on windy days. Don’t spray when rain is
expected (refer to the label for more details)
There are several issues when considering the spot spraying option. It is relatively easy to kill
large areas of weeds using this method. If you are working on a slope make sure you are not
going significantly increase soil erosion or instability. If there are native animals using the
weeds as habitat, what will happen to them? If the weeds are left standing, particularly for
dense prickly infestations, how will you get into them later to do the follow up work? How
much off-target damage is acceptable?
2 Herbicides
Herbicides are chemicals designed to kill plants. They can be a very effective weed control tool but
they must be used at the right concentration and carefully. The safety of people and of the
environment must be the main consideration when using them.
Before using herbicides it is recommended that you complete a basic Chemical Handling training
session.
Always read the label on the herbicide container. It is a legal requirement that you act in accordance
with the instructions and information on the label, or in some cases, in accordance with the Off-label
Permit for that herbicide as issued by the Australian Pesticide and Veterinary Medicines Authority.
Further information about a herbicide can be found on it’s Material Data Safety Sheet, which is
available at the point of sale or via the internet.
You must always follow the safety instructions closely and wear the recommended protective
equipment when mixing or using herbicides. Only use the herbicide at the dilution rate
recommended for a particular species. Only mix up the amount of herbicide that you will use in
each weeding session.
Page 71
2.1 Terms to Become Familiar With
Residual
Remains active in the soil (anywhere from several weeks to 12 months or more) and is
absorbed into the plant via the root system. Herbicides that have long residual times in
the soil are generally not used for bushland weed control.
Toxicity
The strength of a herbicide, and hence the level of risk involved in its use.
Systemic
The herbicide is transported around the plant to the roots, which it kills, causing the
whole plant to die.
Non-systemic
The herbicide only kills the part of the plant that it contacts. Also known as ‘Knockdown’
herbicides. Useful for the control of annual weeds.
Selective
The herbicide kills some groups of plants but has little or no effect on others. Common
examples are ‘broad-leaf selective’ herbicides and ‘grass selective’ herbicides.
Non-selective
The herbicide can kill all groups of plants.
Active Ingredient
The ingredient in the herbicide that actually kills the plant. Don’t confuse this with the
brand name of a herbicide. The label on every brand of herbicide will show what active
ingredient(s) are present and in what concentrations.
Surfactant
A herbicide additive like a strong detergent which assists the herbicide to stick onto the
plant thereby increasing the uptake of the active ingredient by the plant. Some brands of
herbicide already have a surfactant mixed in or will recommend that one be included
with the herbicide for use on a particular species. This information will be shown on the
label.
Penetrant
A herbicide additive which assists the active ingredient to move into the plant. Some
brands of herbicide already have a penetrant mixed in or will recommend that one be
included with the herbicide for use on a particular species. This information will be
shown on the label. In most cases the use of additional penetrants is not recommended
for bushland weed control and should only be used with great care.
2.2 Active Ingredients for Bushland Weed Control
Most herbicide use recommended for bushland weed control is based around one or the other of
two active ingredients, Glyphosate and Triclopyr.
Glyphosate

Low toxicity

Residual (in some cases)

Systemic

Non-selective
However some plants are more sensitive than others depending upon the
Page 72
concentration, method of application, growth stage and vigour of the plant,
and the presence of surfactants.
Triclopyr

Where the use of the active ingredient Glyphosate is recommended in this
plan, use a herbicide brand where Glyphosate is the only active ingredient
and is present at a concentration of 360 grams / litre.

Moderate toxicity

Residual in the soil for up to six weeks

Systemic

Broad-leaf selective – (it does not effect grasses).

Where the use of the active ingredient Triclopry is recommended in this
plan, use a herbicide brand where Triclopyr is the only active ingredient and
is present at a concentration of 600 grams / litre.

The use of Triclopyr diluted with diesel for Cut and Swab application in
bushland is allowed by way of a Permit issued by the Australian Pesticide and
Veterinary Medicines Authority – Permit Number PER8897, for the herbicide
brand Garlon 600. The permit is valid until 30 May 2011.

Due to its toxicity level and residual effect, it is recommended that
landowners either get licensed contractors to complete treatments using
Triclopyr, or complete a Chemical Handling training course themselves
before using it.
Page 73
Appendix 4: Works record sheets
Page 74
WORKS RECORD (adapted from DEWNR’s Native Vegetation & Biodiversity Unit – BushRAT methodolgy)
All Threats/Management Issues identified as requiring action (as per the Biodiversity Action Table) are listed
below. Only some of these will have had actions proposed for this past year. Please fill in the table for these
actions and write N/A next to those that did not require action in this past 12-month period.
Management Unit______________ Year _____
Date that you are filling in this form __________
WEEDS
Common
Name
Actions undertaken this
calendar year
These may or may not
correspond with the
actions you proposed at
the start of the year. If
you did not propose any
actions for this
Management Issue this
year, write N/A.
Bridal
Creeper
infestation
Spot-sprayed using
glyphosate 360g/L at
1:100. It took us 4 hours
(2 people x 2 hrs).
Status of infestation(s)
State whether the infestations
have increased significantly,
increased slightly, decreased
significantly, decreased slightly,
or remained the same since this
time last year. State this for all
weeds, including those that you
did not work on this past year.
All Bridal Creeper populations
in Management Unit 2 appear
to have remained at the same
level. The sprayed population
will hopefully have decreased
in extent/vigour.
Changes to the vegetation,
fauna or other features
Have you noticed any changes to the
vegetation, fauna or other features of the
site in the vicinity of your works? This
may include an increase in regeneration of
plants, new bird species seen in the area,
increase in leaf litter, etc., Do you think
these changes are a result of your works or
other environmental factors?
There was good regeneration
of Golden Wattles this year,
despite the Bridal Creeper. This
was possibly a response to last
year’s hot Summer followed by
good rains leading to good
seed germination.
Page 75
PEST ANIMALS
Pest threat
or issue
Actions undertaken
this calendar year
These may or may not correspond
with the actions you proposed at
the start of the year. If you did
not propose any actions for this
Management Issue this year,
write N/A.
Foxes
Status of pest issue
State whether the pest species or erosion
area has increased significantly,
increased slightly, decreased
significantly, decreased slightly, or
remained the same since this time last
year. State this for all pests/erosion
issues, including those that you did not
work on this past year.
Changes to the vegetation,
fauna or other features
Have you noticed any changes to the
vegetation, fauna or other features of the
site in the vicinity of your works? This
may include an increase in regeneration
of plants, new bird species seen in the
area, increase in leaf litter, etc., Do you
think these changes are a result of your
works or other environmental factors?
Fumigated all dens using
….. It took us 2 full adys
with 2 people.
Page 76
VEGETATION REGENERATION/ REVEGETATION
Type of
regeneration/reveg
etation issue
Poor vegetation
structure (lack of
groundcover plants)
Actions undertaken this
calendar year
These may or may not correspond with
the actions you proposed at the start of
the year. If you did not propose any
actions for this Management Issue
this year, write N/A.
We fenced and removed
grazing stock as required in
our clearance Decision
Notification. The constructed
fence is 2.3km long and is a
post and dropper, 5 wire (2
barb) fence).
Status of
regeneration/
revegetation issue
Changes to the
vegetation, fauna or other
features
Describe the current
extent/status/of the issue.
Has it improved since last
year?
Have you noticed any changes to the
vegetation, fauna or other features of
the site in the areas where this
threat/issue occurs? This may include
an increase in regeneration of plants,
increase in tree dieback, new bird
species seen in the area, increase in
leaf litter, etc., and does not have to
be a result of your works.
Vegetation structure
has improved, but we
are yet to clarify how
much of this new
growth is native. It
would seem that the
fencing has already
led to positive
changes since last
year.
As already mentioned,
there have been changes
to the vegetation structure.
It also seems that there are
different types of plants
emerging. We have seen
new species of birds in the
site (Red-browed Finch,
Red-rumped Parrot) that
are eating the grass seeds
of the new plants.
Page 77