Download FAUNA SURVEY OF BALNARRING PRIMARY SCHOOL

FAUNA SURVEY
OF
BALNARRING PRIMARY
SCHOOL
Balbirooroo Wetlands
BALNARRING
APRIL 2009 TO MAY
2010.
Field work and report writing
Malcolm Legg
Mal’s Environmental
&
Ecological Services
ABN 70 165 787 370
PO Box 247
Shoreham 3916
Ph 03 59 863 448
M 0438 898 325
EMAIL
[email protected]
Fauna Survey of Balnarring Primary School,
‘Balbirooroo Wetlands’ Balnarring, April, 2009 to May, 2010.
Report and fields work by Malcolm Legg (Mal’s Environmental and Ecological Services)
Balbirooroo Wetlands
Acknowledgements
Special thanks to Heather Goddard and the Balbirooroo Community Wetlands/Woodlands
Committee for organizing this survey.
Also thanks to Matt Stahmer from Mornington Peninsula Shire for supplying the aerials of
the property.
Profiles Front Page
Black Swan with cygnets, pair of Black shouldered Kites, wetlands, Lowland Copperhead
and Korra Bun-yun Wetland.
All other profiles through-out this report were photographed at the study site. And is Copywrite M. Legg 2010.
Executive Summary
Mal‟s Environmental & Ecological Services were commissioned by Balbirooroo Community
Wetlands/Woodlands Committee to conduct a fauna survey within Balnarring Primary School
and adjacent lake. The study site is approximately 12 hectares in size and habitat includes
Grassy Woodlands, Swamp Scrub, wetlands, lake, drainage line and school buildings. The
property is also a part of the foothill to coast bio-link including Merricks Creek.
Aims and Objectives
The main purpose of this study was to identify and map all vertebrate fauna with emphasis
on threatened species. The outcomes of this assessment are to guide the managers into
sustaining the significant and common fauna and their habitat that have been detected and
to identify possible impacts or risks associated with feral animals and other threats.
The brief for this project was to establish the fauna values that occur or could occur within
the study site. Fauna values considered in this report include all significant vertebrate fauna
and native vegetation types. Also included were the role of native vegetation in a landscape
context to provide habitat and corridors for native fauna.
Methods and Results
Fauna
Fauna surveys and mapping were undertaken from April, 2009 to May, 2010. Methods,
undertaken in accordance with permit conditions included identifying appropriate habitat
and mapping all fauna species, active searching, scat analysis, digging analysis, Elliot traps,
colour-bond tiles, hair tubing, infra red cameras, spotlighting, Anabat 2 Bat Detector and
vocalization identification.
A total of 109 species of native fauna and 10 species of
introduced fauna were recorded within the study site. This includes species of Decapod
Crustaceans, freshwater fish, amphibians, reptiles, birds and mammals.
No National significant species listed under the Environment Protection and Biodiversity Act
1999 were detected, however 5 species are listed as internationally migratory under the
EPBC Act. Nine state significant species were recorded during this study and 5 of those
species are listed under the Flora and Fauna Guarantee Act 1988 as threatened. In addition,
22 species are considered to be of regional significance and 7 species are considered to be
of high local significance.
Vegetation
Some parts of the study site have been modified in the past due mostly to clearing for livestock use. However the clearing of vegetation phases has stopped for many decades and the
indigenous vegetation has returned. Approximately 70% of the site is considered to be
covered in native vegetation, both remnant and re-growth from past disturbances. Several
Ecological Vegetation Classes (EVC‟s) were identified within the study site. Some of these
3
Fauna survey of Balnarring Primary School, Balnarring, April, 2009 to May, 2010.
are: Grassy Woodland, Swamp Scrub, Wetland Formation, Aquatic Herbland, Swampy
Riparian Woodland and drainage-lines.
The quality of vegetation within these EVC‟s is very high, with some areas supporting grassy
understorey while others are sedgy. Most areas are almost exclusively indigenous. Majority
of the study site is of very high conservation significance including state significant species.
Conclusion and Recommendations
The study site constitutes an important contribution and is part of an important foothill to
coast bio-link. The significance of the area has been increasing over the last two decades as
due to habitat restoration projects and an increase in species diversity.
Feral animals such as foxes, cats, introduced birds, introduced rodents and mosquitofish
are impacting on fauna heavily including threatened species. An integrated on-going feral
control program for the greater area is urgently required.
Other management guidelines that need to be adopted include:
-Establish bio-links between the property and the coast including Merricks Creek.
-Look into placing a covenant on the land through „Trust for Nature‟.
-Continue to manage weeds and follow these simple rules:
-Leave if Eastern Yellow Robins or other birds are nesting.
-Continue to remove weeds by carrying out the same methods already
implemented.
-Only remove woody weeds or conduct control burns during the non-bird
breeding season.
-Allow natural regeneration to occur.
=If ringtail possum dreys occur in weeds then ring-bark with-out poisoning
and follow-up after a year.
_Continue with nesting box program and monitor. Place dense sedges and prickly
wattles around water bird nesting boxes.
-Retain and place out ground logs with hollows through-out different habitats.
-Look into ways to prevent catastrophic disasters.
-Continue to conduct fauna surveys every 5 years to monitor fauna populations and
diversity.
Fauna survey of Balnarring Primary School, Balnarring, April, 2009 to May, 2010.
4
Contents
1.
1.1
1.2
1.3
INTRODUCTION
Project Background
Aims
Study Site
2.
2.1
2.2
2.3
METHODS
Fauna
Data Handling and Storage
Mapping
13
13
15
16
3.
RESULTS
17
4.
SIGNIFICANT FAUNA
18
5.
DISCUSSION
57
6.
RECOMMENDATIONS
64
7.
REFERENCES
65
APPENDIX
APPENDIX
APPENDIX
APPENDIX
1.
2.
3.
4.
METHODS FOR DEFINING BIOLOGICAL SIGNIFICANCE
FAUNA SPECIES DETECTED DURING THIS SURVEY
FAUNA TRAPPING, SPOTLIGHTING AND OBSERVED RESULTS
FAUNA SPECIES IN VFD AND EPBC DATABASES
TABLES
Table 1.
Table 2.
Table 3:
Table 4.
Table 5.
Table 6.
Table 7.
Table 8.
Table 9.
Table 10.
Tables 11-18.
6
6
6
6-7
66
68
72
77
Significant species detected from VFA & EPBC database search
19
Significant species recorded during this survey
20
Current status of Grassy Woodland ecosystems within the property 56
Decopod Crustaceans
68
Fish
68
Amphibians
68
Reptiles
69
Coastal and Wetland birds
69
Woodland Birds
70-71
Mammals
71
Fauna sampling results from the survey period
72-76
MAPS
Map 1.
Locations of Fauna Sampling Sites
Fauna survey of Balnarring Primary School, Balnarring, April, 2009 to May, 2010.
80
5
1.0
INTRODUCTION
Malcolm Legg from Mal‟s Environmental and Ecological Services was commissioned by
Balbirooroo Community Wetlands/Woodlands Committee to conduct a fauna survey of
Balnarring Primary School and adjacent lake. The study was conducted from April, 2009, to
May, 2010.
This report provides information on the significant fauna and habitat quality through:
-reviewing existing information
-documenting new information
-providing recommendations to ensure the site‟s biodiversity values are maintained.
1.1
PROJECT BACKGROUND
The scope of works proposed by Balbirooroo Community Wetlands/Woodlands Committee
and Mal‟s Environmental & Ecological Services included the following:
-a review of fauna databases
-a review of existing environmental documentation
-targeted fauna surveys and mapping species
-documentation of fauna values
-an evaluation of ecological significance
-discussions on the impacts feral animals might be having on fauna species
-discussions on fauna management and monitoring.
1.2
AIMS
This report aims to:
-establish the study site‟s known significant fauna values
-document significant habitats and species
-assess all fieldwork data and information from relevant literature and databases
-provide recommendations to ensure the site‟s significant values are maintained
well into the future.
1.2
STUDY SITE
The study site is located in the township of Balnarring in the Westernport Bay catchment of
the Mornington Peninsula, Victoria. The township of Hastings is situated to the north, and
the coastal village of Flinders to the south. The study site falls within the Gippsland Plains
Bioregion (DNRE 1997). Prior to European settlement the study site fell within the Aboriginal
territory of the Boonwurrong people. The property is approximately 12 hectares in size and
retains Indigenous vegetation and wetlands. Prior to the early 1990‟s the property was
Fauna survey of Balnarring Primary School, Balnarring, April, 2009 to May, 2010.
6
cleared grazing paddocks and post 1993 replanting programs and wetland construction
have been achieved through-out including the schools environs. Small infestations of
weeds, mainly exotic grasses appear through-out which are being controlled. The soils
drain towards the drainage lines, wetlands, lake and down to Merricks Creek into
Westernport Bay. The study site comprises woodlands, wetlands, drainage lines and a lake.
The area has a maritime climate with wet moist winters and dry warm summers.
1.3.1 Ecological Vegetation Classes
Pre European Settlement 2 EVC‟s are recognizes on maps (DSE) would have been apparent
within the property which included Grassy Woodland and Swamp Scrub. Wetlands have been
created forming new EVC‟s including Wetland Formation and others have been planted back.
Other EVC‟s are probably apparent but have not been mapped at present. Majority of these
EVC‟s are of high quality but are immature in formation (such-as the woodlands are too
young to have formed hollows). EVC‟s that are apparent on the property include: Swampy
Riparian Woodland, Grassy Woodland, Swamp Scrub, Wetland Formation and Aquatic
Herbland. These EVC‟s and different habitats are displayed below.
Nesting boxes have been made and deployed for wetland birds to nest in.
Fauna survey of Balnarring Primary School, Balnarring, April, 2009 to May, 2010.
7
053 Swamp Scrub
083 Swampy Riparian Woodland
175 Grassy Woodland
Wetland Formation
Lake with 653 Aquatic herbland
Drainage lines
Fauna survey of Balnarring Primary School, Balnarring, April, 2009 to May, 2010.
8
1.3.2 Geology
Geologically the property comprises 2 soil types. The highest areas of the property consist
of Baxter Sandstones with sand and sandy clay with occasional gravels. They are also
ligneous in part. Grassy woodlands cover this soil type and the soils were formed in the
Pliocene period of the Quaternary era. Soils through-out the lower areas of the property
consist of fluviatile clay, silt, sand and gravels, which were formed in the Pleistocene period
of the Quaternary era. On these soils swamp scrub and wetland species grow on the
property.
1.3.3 History
Prior to European settlement the study area fell within the Aboriginal territory of the
Boonwurrong people. At times they probably would have travelled through-out the area,
hunting and gathering. Nearby midden sites are found along the Westernport Bay coastline.
In the late 1700‟s and early 1800‟s Westernport Bay was discovered by Europeans and the
area was settled soon after.
The Mornington Peninsula including Balnarring and surrounding land was cleared of its
indigenous vegetation right down to the coast and pastures were created through-out.
About 1980 the Department of Education and the then Shire of Hastings purchased the
property and a school was established in 1990. In 1993 a Committee of interested staff,
parents and community members began planning for a wetland on the part of the site not
occupied by the school and at the end of 1993 the first woodland revegetation was
undertaken. The Balbirooroo Wetlands was constructed in 1994, with boardwalks, walking
tracks, bird hide and observation platforms being constructed by the school community
over 1994/5. Woodland and wetland revegetation continued from this time and is still
ongoing.
The names of the wetlands on the site are of Koorie origin. Balbirooroo means „Ibis‟ and is
of unknown origins and Pun Pun is a Kulin nation word meaning „seasonal‟. The Committee
then began to work with Bea Edwards (Nambooka), now a Boonerwrung elder, who gave
them the name Korra Bun-yun, a Boonerwrung word for „Frog‟.
It seems that the Growling Grass Frog has become extinct within the property which
occurred through-out much of its range in the 90‟s and populations have never recovered.
Fauna survey of Balnarring Primary School, Balnarring, April, 2009 to May, 2010.
9
Sign erected near the entrance explaining the history.
The following are extracts from historical records of the fauna that used to occur in the area
(between Moorooduc Quarry and Arthurs Seat) during the 1800‟s and early to mid 1900‟s:
Cavill (1986, p. 39) recounts the wildlife around her property (immediately to the east of
Moorooduc Quarry) in the 1930‟s:
“Koalas grunted all night, wombats, kangaroos, wallabies, possums, echidnas, bush
and water rats, flying foxes and bandicoots were abundant and tame.”
The numbers of kangaroos must have been enormous.
“Kangaroos were formerly so plentiful that they resembled flocks of sheep. At Sandy
Point they erected yards for a big kangaroo drive. Messrs. Clark, White, Benton and
others got 1500 in the first drive. Stakes seven foot high were driven into the ground
and interwoven with ti-tree. In the last drive they got 800 kangaroos. On the plain
they were in thousands, as also were possums. Bandicoots and goannas were also
very numerous.” (Tuck, 1971, p. 10).
Also,
“The place was full of wild animals – wild cats, kangaroos, possums, snakes, emus
and everything…” (Tuck, 1971, p.10)
Fauna survey of Balnarring Primary School, Balnarring, April, 2009 to May, 2010.
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Cavill (pers. comm.) has noted the decline in occurrence of vertebrates living around the
Moorooduc Quarry. Of the mammals, Quolls, Southern Brown Bandicoots and Eastern Grey
Kangaroos lasted until around the 1940‟s while the Common Wombat remained until twenty
years later. As recently as twenty years ago, Mrs Cavill recalls Koalas, Sugar Gliders and
Agile Antechinus as abundant, although their numbers have since declined dramatically. She
believes the Black Wallaby was still present until 1984. Two species of pygmy possum
(Feathertail Glider and possibly the Eastern Pygmy Possum) were also thought to have lived
in the vicinity.
Wheelwright (1979) whose „wanderings‟ all occurred within sixty-five kilometres of
Melbourne was one of the first naturalists to write about (and shoot so many of) the
region‟s fauna. He records Dingos “lying up generally in thick patches of tea-tree…” (p. 35)
and being common in thick forests, deeply scrubbed gullies, in belts of timber bordering
the large plains and in patches of tea-tree on the plains themselves.” (p35). Wheelwright
also described many of the species noted by Cavill – Common Wombats, Koalas, the two
possums, Sugar Gliders, Feathertail Glider, Bandicoots (two species), Short-beaked
Echidnas, Eastern Water Rat and various smaller bush animals, such as field-mice and rats.
In the 1850‟s Wheelwright also observed a “Kangaroo Rat” which was “common throughout
the bush” and which was “excellent eating”. This species described by Wheelwright is almost
certainly the Long-nosed Potoroo.
Interestingly Wheelwright never observed Platypus in the “Westernport district”, although he
found it common in the “Yarra, the Exe and many of the streams to the north and east of
Melbourne” (p.52).
Wheelwright also shot both species of quolls. He found the Spotted-tail Quolls rare, but the
Eastern Quolls to be “one of the commonest of all bush animals” (p.48). He found Eastern
Quolls especially common in the belts of timber around swamps.
Kenyon (1930) reporting on the work and travels of Dr Edmond Charles Hobson, an early
Victorian naturalist, quotes from Hobson‟s 1837 notes:
“The forests between Melbourne and Arthurs Seat teem with life. The large
Kangaroos may be seen in flocks of three hundred or four hundred, and some
measure nearly eight feet in height.”
He goes on and describes that the Southern Brown Bandicoot, Common Wombat, Eastern
Quoll, Common Brushtail Possum and Common Ringtail Possum were very numerous.
Hobson‟s 1837 records, comments on a number of birds including the Brolga and the
Australian Bustard which were common but have now disappeared from the Greater
Melbourne region. They are now listed as vulnerable and endangered in Victoria.
Fauna survey of Balnarring Primary School, Balnarring, April, 2009 to May, 2010.
11
Historical records indicate that by the 1860‟s Ducks were almost shot out on the Port Phillip
Bay side of the Peninsula, and that excessive hunting and drainage of their habitat had
reduced numbers dramatically.
Species such as the Eastern Quoll, Tiger Quoll, Agile Antechinus, White-footed Dunnart,
Southern Brown Bandicoot, Long-nosed Bandicoot, Eastern Pygmy Possum, Feathertail
Glider, Long-nosed Potaroo, Eastern Grey Kangaroo and the Eastern Water Rat would have
occurred within the Balnarring and greater areas but appear to no longer.
Fauna survey of Balnarring Primary School, Balnarring, April, 2009 to May, 2010.
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2.0
METHODS
2.1
FAUNA TAXONOMY
Animal taxonomy is consistent with the Victorian Wildlife Atlas Database (also called
Victorian Fauna Database DSE (2005b) and the DEH‟s EPBC Act Protected Matters Search
Tool.
2.1.1 Existing information
Existing information on the DSE‟s Atlas of Victorian Wildlife (accessed via Victorian Fauna
Database (VFD) July 2007 edition) for a five kilometre radius around the study site was
sought.
No previous surveys have been conducted within the property in the past but the report
below well documents what the Mornington Peninsula fauna was 160 years ago:
-Sites of Zoological Significance in the Westernport Region, D. L. Andrew, L. F.
Lumsden, & J. M. Dixon. 1984.
2.1.2 New Information
Fauna surveys were deployed using the following methods.
-Decapod Crustaceans were identified by sight.
-Fresh water fish were sampled in bait traps.
-Amphibians were sampled by listening to vocal calls and identifying each species
-Reptiles were sampled by sight, hand capture, sampling in Elliott traps and were
detected under colour-bond tiles and logs.
-Birds were identified by sight, their calls and during spotlight walks.
-Mammals were sampled and identified by sampling hairs from hair tubes, sampling
in Elliot traps, analysing scats and diggings, and by sight during spotlight walks.
-Micro bats were identified using the Anabat 2 Bat Detector.
-Scout-guard cameras were deployed to record fauna, especially threatened species.
Taxa were identified using reference literature including Allen, G. R., Midgley, S. H. & Allen,
M. (2002), Cogger (2000), Menkhorst (1996), Simpson and Day (1999) and Strahan (1998).
2.1.2.1 Further detail of some of the fauna survey techniques
listed above includes:
BAIT TRAPS
Fish were sampled in bait traps deployed in the wetlands, lake and along the drainage line
at Frankston-Flinders Road. Bait traps were deployed for 3 nights at each location.
Fauna survey of Balnarring Primary School, Balnarring, April, 2009 to May, 2010.
13
AMPHIBIAN CALL IDENTIFICATING
Through-out the wetlands, creek and drainage lines amphibians were identified whilst
listening to male vocal calls during breeding seasons and identifying each call. Species were
identified and mapped.
VISUAL BIRD DETECTING
Birds were identified on the property by walking through-out the various habitats while
listening to calls or looking through binoculars and identifying individuals. Nocturnal birds
were identified by calls and sight during spotlight walks. All species were mapped at sites
they were identified at.
HAIR TUBES
Two transects were deployed along the banks of the wetlands to sample for common and
habitat specific fauna, Ten hair tubes were deployed along each transect, at 10m intervals
and left out for seven days during the full and the new moon cycles. Refer to maps for
locations of hair tube transects. A total of 140 sampling nights were conducted throughout
this hair tube sampling survey (each trap deployed is counted as one sampling night).
Hairs from five species of mammals were sampled, these included the Common Brushtail
Possum, Black Wallaby, Swamp Rat *Black Rat, *House Mouse and *Red Fox. Bait used was
peanut butter, rolled oats and honey.
ELLIOT TRAPS
Before and after the full and new moons 10 Elliot traps were deployed along the same two
transects as the previous method. They were deployed through-out appropriate habitat and
were chosen as they offered the best habitat for the small mammal species. A total of 90
sampling nights were conducted throughout this Elliot trap sampling survey (each trap
deployed is counted as one sampling night).
Fauna sampled in Elliot traps included, Swamp Rat and the introduced*Black Rat and *House
Mouse. Bait used was peanut butter, rolled oats and honey.
COLOUR-BOND TILES
Small sheets of Colour-bond measuring 300mm by 300mm were deployed along the same
transects as above. Reptiles move under the tiles on sunny mornings to absorb the heat
being radiated from the sun. This warms their blood which allows them to hunt and
consume food. Reptiles were sampled underneath the tiles by lifting them in the morning,
hand capturing and identifying each species.
Fauna survey of Balnarring Primary School, Balnarring, April, 2009 to May, 2010.
14
INFRA RED CAMERAS
Three Scout Guard infra-red cameras were deployed through-out the property in
appropriate habitats to obtain live footage of terrestrial and arboreal fauna with emphasis
on threatened species. Cameras were deployed in trees to film arboreal species and 200mm
off the ground for terrestrial species. Bait used included peanut butter, oats and honey for
terrestrial species and honey and water sprayed on tree trunks and branches for arboreal
species.
SCAT ANALYSIS
Red Fox scats were common through-out the property. Feral predator scats that were found
were collected and hairs within were analysed. Hairs belonging to Short-beaked Echidna,
Koala, Common Brushtail Possum, Common Ringtail Possum, Swamp Rat, *introduced
rodents and a host of bird species.
SPOTLIGHTING
Spotlighting was conducted over three nights during mild weather conditions leading up to
the full moon and new moon cycles. Species were identified and mapped.
ANABAT 2 BAT DETECTOR
Micro bats omit echo-location while flying around at night. Each species has a different call
frequency and thus their calls are detected and recorded on the Anabat 2 Bat Detector.
Those calls are download on to computer and analysed using specialized software.
2.1.3 Limitations
No real limitations were experienced.
2.1.4 Research Permit
All fauna sampling within the study site was carried out legally under Wildlife Act 1975/FFG
Act 1988 Research Permit Number 10004056.
2.2
DATA HANDLING AND STORAGE
Listings of all fauna detected throughout the survey within the study site have been
submitted to the Department of Sustainability and Environment, Heidelberg (Nicholson
Street) and recorded on the Atlas of Victoria Wildlife and on the new Mornington Peninsula
Wildlife Atlas for future reference.
Fauna survey of Balnarring Primary School, Balnarring, April, 2009 to May, 2010.
15
2.2.1 Database Entry, Validation and Submission
Listings of all fauna detected throughout the survey within the study site are submitted to
DSE as a contribution to the Atlas of Victoria Wildlife for future reference.
2.3
MAPPING
Geographical positioning data collection in the field for the purposes of map display was
carried out with an iPAQ Navigation System programmed into HP iPAQ pocket PC using
Arcpad 7 software for locating sampling sites and significant species.
Fauna survey of Balnarring Primary School, Balnarring, April, 2009 to May, 2010.
16
3.0
RESULTS
A total of 119 species of fauna were recorded within the study site during this survey. Of
these 109 species are native and 10 species are introduced.
3.1
DATABASE RECORDS AND PREVIOUS SURVEYS
In determining this „likelihood of occurrence‟ and utilization of the study site by national or
state significant fauna, the following factors were considered:
-the conservation status of the species and its distribution
-previous recordings of species in the local area
-the habitat requirements of individual species
-the physical attributes of the site, such as trees with hollows, the presence of rocks
or boulders, logs on the ground
-the fragmented and highly modified environment surrounding the site
Several species of high local to regional significance, some species of State significance and
National significant were thought to have a high likelihood of occurrence on the site as they
have been recorded previously within the study site or surrounding area.
3 .2
NEW IMFORMATION
3.2.1 Decapod Crustaceans and fish
Two species of Decapod Crustaceans and 3 species of fish (Appendix 2) were recorded
within the drainage line, lake and wetlands. One species the Mosquitofish is introduced.
3.2.2 Amphibians and Reptiles
During this survey 7 species of amphibians were recorded (Appendix 2), mainly within and
along the banks of the wetland and drainage lines.
During this survey 9 species of reptiles were recorded of which 1 species is a tortoise, 6
species are lizards and 2 species are snakes (Appendix 2). There appears to be a reasonable
diversity of frogs and reptiles within different habitats of the property.
3.2.3 Birds
84 species of birds were recorded during this survey within the property (Appendix 2). 79 of
these are native species and 5 species are introduced.
Fauna survey of Balnarring Primary School, Balnarring, April, 2009 to May, 2010.
17
3.2.4 Mammals
14 species of mammals were recorded during this survey (Appendix 2) of which 4 species
are introduced. There appears to be a good diversity of terrestrial mammals and a low
diversity of arboreal mammals still inhabiting the property.
4.0
SIGNIFICANT FAUNA SPECIES
No Nationally significant species listed under the Environment Protection and Biodiversity
Act 1999 where detected during this survey. Five species are listed as internationally
migratory under the EPBC Act. Nine State significant species were recorded during this study
of which 5 species are listed under the Flora and Fauna Guarantee Act 1988 as threatened.
In addition, a further 22 species recorded are considered to be of regional significance and
7 species recorded are considered to be of high local significance. Due to large population
and habitat losses within the local area (Mornington Peninsula) the remaining native fauna
can be considered to be at local significance levels. High local to state significant species
identified during this survey are listed in table 2 below.
4.1
FAUNAL SIGNIFICANCE WITHIN THE STUDY SITE.
On the basis of significant flora and fauna species occurring within the study site, the
property can be considered to be of State Significance. However, the small to high incidence
of introduced weed and animal species threatens to reduce this significance if control
measures aren‟t continued.
4.2
HABITAT SIGNIFICANCE
The vegetation communities within the property contain important habitat for fauna
species. The indigenous treed communities support a small diversity of arboreal mammals
and large diversity of avifauna, whereas the ground vegetation supports a large diversity of
terrestrial fauna and scrub-dwelling avifauna. Some feral species are threatening the fauna
diversity within the study site and need to be dealt with.
4.3
DEFINING SIGNIFICANT SPECIES
Fauna in the study site were classed according to their high local, regional, State and
National significant levels. As lists of regionally and locally significant fauna aren‟t available
from relevant government authorities, those significant taxa were assessed by the author
from his previous records within the bioregion.
Fauna survey of Balnarring Primary School, Balnarring, April, 2009 to May, 2010.
18
TABLE 1:
Significant Fauna Species in VFD and EPBC Databases
Significant Fauna species detected within a one kilometre radius from centre of study site on DSE’s Victorian Fauna Database (VFD). Relevant species listed on
EPBC Protected Matters Search Tool also included. Habitat/Comments column also gives indication of location and year of records lodged with VFD.
Likelihood of Occurrence:
Low:
Few aspects of habitat requirements are met on site.
 Status derived from DSE (2007)
Moderate: Some aspects of habitat requirements are met on site.
VFD: Victorian Fauna Database
High:
Optimal habitat present.
EPBC: EPBC Protected Matters Search Tool
Conservation Status Codes (EPBC and FFG Acts):
EN – Endangered under the National EPBC Act (very high risk of extinction in the wild)
VU – Vulnerable under the National EPBC Act (high risk of extinction in the wild)
L-Listed as threatened under the Flora and Fauna Guarantee Act
f-FFG listed.
FFG
EPBC
Victorian Conservation Status Codes (DES) :
e – Endangered (at risk of becoming extinct);
v – Vulnerable (at risk of becoming endangered);
r –Rare (rare but not considered otherwise threatened);
nt – Near Threatened
dd – Data Deficient
VROTS
Common Name
Scientific Name
Family Name
Freq
NumSite
Likelihood of
occurrence
v
Australasian Shoveler
Anas rhynchotis
Anatidae
22.72%
5
This survey
n
Cape Barren Goose
Cereopsis novaehollandiae
Anatidae
22.72%
5
High
f
v
Eastern Great Egret
Ardea modesta
Ardeidae
4.54%
1
This survey
f
e
Freckled Duck
Stictonetta naevosa
Anatidae
4.54%
1
This survey
f
e
Grey-crowned Babbler
Pomatostomus temporalis
Pomatostomidae
18.18%
4
Low
v
Hardhead
Aythya australis
Anatidae
13.63%
3
High
f
v
Lewin’s Rail
Lewinia pectoralis
Rallidae
4.54%
1
High
f
n
Magpie Goose
Anseranas semipalmata
Anseranatidae
4.54%
1
Medium
v
Musk Duck
Biziura lobata
Anatidae
9.09%
2
High
n
Pied Cormorant
Phalacrocorax varius
Phalacrocoracidae
4.54%
1
This survey
v
Royal Spoonbill
Platalea regia
Threskiornithidae
9.09%
2
This survey
v
Wood Sandpiper
Tringa glareola
Scolopacidae
4.54%
1
High
19
Fauna survey of Balnarring Primary School, Balnarring, April, 2009 to May, 2010.
Significant fauna detected throughout the study site during
this survey.
KEY TO DEFINING SIGNIFICANT SPECIES
Signif
N
S
R
HL
NRE
FFG
ActPl
EPBC
TR
Cen
End
Vul
LR
NT
DD
Ls
M
Un
MC
LC
C
Lim
Significant/status of species is designated by:
National
State
Regional
High Local
Threatened Vertebrate in Victoria-2000 (NRE 2000)
Flora and Fauna Guaranteed Act 1988
Action Plan approved by Environmental Australia
Environment Protection and Biodiversity Conservation Act 1999
International Treaties, C=China (CAMBA) and J=Japan (JAMBA).
critically endangered
endangered
vulnerable
lower risk-near threatened
Near Threatened
data deficient
Listed
Migratory under the EPBC Act
Uncommon
Moderately Common
Locally Common
Common
Limited
TABLE 2: Significant fauna detected throughout the study site during this survey.
Common Name
Amphibians
Southern Toadlet
Haswells Froglet
Reptiles
Southern Water Skink
Delicate Skink
Southern Grass Skink
Blotched Blue-tongue
Lowland Copperhead
White-lipped Snake
Birds
Pied Cormorant
Australian Shelduck
Australasian Shoveler
Freckled Duck
Lewins Rail
Great Egret
Royal Spoonbill
Yellow-billed Spoonbill
Lathams Snipe
Red-kneed Dotterel
Black-fronted Dotterel
Caspian Tern
Wedge-tailed Eagle
Swamp Harrier
Common Bronzewing
Scientific Name
Sig
NRE.
Pseudophryne
semimarmorata
Paracrinia haswelli
S
Vul
R
Un
Eulamprus typanum
Lamprophalis delicata
Pseudemoia entrecasteauxii
Tiliqua nigrolutea
Australeps superbus
Drysdalia coronoides
R
R
R
R
HL
R
Un
MC
MC
MC
C
Un
Phalacrocorax varius
Tadorna tadornoides
Anas rhynchotis
Stichonetta naevosa
Rallus pectoralis
Ardea alba
Platalea regia
Platalea flavipes
Gallinago hardwickii
Erythrogonys cinctus
Elseyornis melanops
Sterna caspia
Aquila audax
Circus approximans
Phaps chalcoptera
S
R
S
S
S
S
S
R
S
R
R
S
HL
HL
HL
LR
Com
Vul
En
Vul
Vul
Vul
Un
LR
Un
Un
LR
MC
MC
C
FFG.
Ls
Ls
Ls
Ls
ActPl
EPBC
M
CJ
M
CJ
M
CJ
M
CJ
20
Fauna survey of Balnarring Primary School, Balnarring, April, 2009 to May, 2010.
TR
Common Name
Scientific Name
Yellow-tailed Black-Cockatoo
Musk Lorikeet
Southern Boobook
White-throated Needletail
Brown-headed Honeyeater
White-fronted Chat
Flame Robin
Eastern Yellow Robin
Grey Currawong
Clamorous Reed Warbler
Mistletoebird
Mammals
Short-beaked Echidna
Koala
Black Wallaby
Micro
bats
occurring
through-out.
Swamp Rat
4.4
Sig
NRE.
Calyptorhynchus funereus
R
MC
Glossopitta concinna
Ninox novaehollandiae
Hirundapus caudacutus
Melithreptus brevirostris
Epthianura albifrons
Pectroica phoenicea
Eopsaltria australis
Sterpera versicolour
Acrocephalus stentoreus
Dicaeum hirundinaceum
HL
R
HL
R
HL
R
R
R
R
R
C
MC
C
MC
C
Un
MC
Un
Un
Un
Tachyglossus aculeatus
Phascolarctos cinereus
Wallabia bicolor
Vespadelus sps.
R
R
R
R
C
MC
C
C
Rattus lutreolus
R
C
FFG.
ActPl
EPBC
TR
M
CJ
Ls
DESCRIPTION OF SIGNIFICANT SPECIES
Below are descriptions of the state, regional and high local significant species detected
during this survey.
HASWELLS FROGLET Paracrinia haswelli
StatusVIC- Common.
MPS- Uncommon to rare.
BPS- Uncommon.
HabitatMPS- Drainage lines, Emipheral wetlands.
BPS- Drainage lines and wet grassy areas that dry out.
General BiologyHaswell‟s Froglet Is confined to the inundated grasslands and drainage lines that become
flooded after heavy rains. This small froglet lays its eggs within the flooded habitat and
develop into froglets before the site dries out.
Breeding SeasonSpring to autumn.
Fauna survey of Balnarring Primary School, Balnarring, April, 2009 to May, 2010.
21
Tree hollow requirementPartial-dependency within fallen timber to hibernate and retreat in.
MigrationNil.
Special Comments
During this survey Haswells Froglet was identified in the same habitat as the Southern
Toadlet.
SOUTHERN TOADLET Pseudophryne semimarmorata
StatusVIC- Vul.
MPS- Vul.
BPS- Rare to Uncommon.
HabitatMPS- Drainage lines and Emipheral Wetlands
BPS- Drainage lines and inundated grassy areas that dry out in summer.
General BiologyThe Southern Toadlet Is a small Toadlet, confined to inundated grasslands and drainage
lines. During autumn they lay their eggs in small burrows at the base of tussocks before
rain inundates the area. When rain floods the grasslands the eggs hatch out and develop
into toadlets before the area dries out.
Breeding SeasonAutumn.
Tree hollow requirementPartial-dependency occasionally within fallen timber to hibernate and retreat in.
MigrationNil.
Special Comments
During this survey the Southern Toadlet was identified through-out grassy inundated areas.
Their biggest dangers are altered drainage patterns.
Fauna survey of Balnarring Primary School, Balnarring, April, 2009 to May, 2010.
22
SOUTHERN WATER SKINK Eulamprus typanum
StatusVIC- Common.
MPS- Uncommon to rare.
BPS- Rare.
HabitatMPS- Woodlands and forests within coastal foreshore reserves and along the banks of some
creeks. Occasionally in inland woodlands.
BPS- Banks of wetlands and creek.
General BiologyThe Southern Water Skink is confined to the understorey (including exotic grasses) along
the banks of the wetlands and creek. Here it was sampled under colour-bond tiles and
visually detected while sunning themselves on fallen logs or at the base of grass tussocks.
During the breeding season the male portrays a yellow throat and the female gives birth up
to five live-young during late summer (Jenkins and Bartell 1980).
Breeding SeasonSpring.
Tree hollow requirementFull-dependency within fallen timber to hibernate and retreat in.
MigrationNil.
Special Comments
Mornington Peninsula is one of the last strongholds for this species within the region. This
species appears to be rare within the property.
Southern Water Skink.
Fauna survey of Balnarring Primary School, Balnarring, April, 2009 to May, 2010.
23
DELICATE SKINK Lampropholis delicata
StatusVic- Widespread, common and considered secure. Possibly threatened within the Gippsland
Plain Bio-region.
MPS- Common to rare in remaining habitat depending on location.
BPS- Through-out and uncommon in suitable habitat.
HabitatMPS- Occurring in intact woodlands and forests that still retain a heathy, grassy or sedgy
understorey.
BPS- Through-out woodlands and higher elevations around the wetlands that still retain a
grassy or sedgy understorey.
General BiologyThe Delicate Skinks is a small skink that occupies the understoreys of various EVC‟s.
Females lay two to five soft-shelled eggs, under logs or thick humus in early summer, which
hatch approximately two months later (Jenkins and Bartell 1980).
Tree hollow requirementPartial-for resting or hibernating in and laying eggs under.
MigrationSedentary.
CommentsThe occasional specimen was sampled under colour-bond tiles. Other specimens were
observed on warm days along tracks and on the edges of tussocks. They appear to be
relatively uncommon throughout the property.
SOUTHERN GRASS SKINK Pseudemoia entrecasteauxii
StatusVic- Widespread, common and considered secure. Possibly threatened within the Gippsland
Plain Bio-region.
MPS- Common to rare in remaining habitat depending on location.
BPS- Through-out and uncommon in suitable habitat.
HabitatMPS- Occurring in intact woodlands and grasslands that still retain a grassy or sedgy
understorey.
BPS- Through-out woodlands and higher elevations around the wetlands that still retain a
grassy or sedgy understorey.
Fauna survey of Balnarring Primary School, Balnarring, April, 2009 to May, 2010.
24
General BiologyThe Southern Grass Skink is a small skink that occupies the understoreys of various EVC‟s
that retain a grassy and sedgy understorey. Females retain their eggs within and give birth
to live young the following year. They disguard their tail when harassed by predators. eggs,
under logs or thick humus in early summer, which hatch approximately two months later
(Jenkins and Bartell 1980).
Tree hollow requirementPartial-for resting or hibernating in and laying eggs under.
MigrationSedentary.
CommentsThe occasional specimen was sampled under colour-bond tiles. Other specimens were
observed on warm days along tracks and on the edges of tussocks. They appear to be
relatively uncommon throughout the property.
BLOTCHED BLUE-TONGUE Tiliqua nigrolutea
StatusVic- Widespread, common and considered secure. Possibly threatened within the Gippsland
Plain Bio-region.
MPS- Uncommon to rare with high season road fatalities.
BPS- Through-out and uncommon to rare in suitable habitat.
HabitatMPS- Woodlands and forests that retain a grassy or sedgy understorey including some
coastal areas. Logs and even old building materials scattered on the ground are utilized to
hide, breed and feed.
BPS- Through-out woodlands and high elevations around the wetlands that still retain a
grassy or sedgy understorey.
General BiologyThe Blotched Blue-tongue is a large Skink that inhabits most bushland sites within the
region that don‟t contain yellow sands such as those found along the coastal areas of the
Mornington Peninsula. Here its cousin the Common Blue-tongue dominates. Females of
both species gives birth up to twenty live-young which are independent from birth. Bluetongues eat a variety of food including carrion, flowers, fruit, insects, snails and some small
animals.
The Blotched Blue-tongue is highly susceptible to road deaths in spring and is heavily
preyed upon by dogs, foxes and cats. Large areas of its habitat have been cleared within the
Fauna survey of Balnarring Primary School, Balnarring, April, 2009 to May, 2010.
25
Gippsland Plain Bioregion resulting in mass population losses and fragmentation. This has
resulted in it now become significant within the region.
Tree hollow requirementPartial-for resting or hibernating in.
MigrationSedentary. Although during spring males migrate over large distances to mate with female.
CommentsThe occasional specimen was sampled in Eliot traps and other specimens were observed on
warm days along tracks. They appear to be relatively rare throughout the property.
Blotched Blue-tongue.
LOWLAND COPPERHEAD Australeps superbus
StatusVic- Widespread, common and considered secure. Possibly threatened within the Gippsland
Plain Bio-region.
MPS- Common to rare in remaining habitat depending on location.
BPS- Through-out and rare in suitable habitat.
Fauna survey of Balnarring Primary School, Balnarring, April, 2009 to May, 2010.
26
HabitatMPS- Occurring the edges of wetlands, swamps, creeks and intact woodlands and forests
that still retain a heathy, grassy or sedgy understorey.
BPS- Through-out woodlands and higher elevations around the wetlands that still retain an
understorey.
General BiologyThe Lowland Copperhead‟s preferred habitat includes riparian zones, swamps and higher
rainfall areas of the region where they predominately hunt for rodents, frogs and smaller
skinks. It is terrestrial and diurnal and is often encountered sunning itself on the edges of
vegetation or large tussocks. Females give birth to up to 20 live young which are
independent of their mother at birth.
Tree hollow requirementPartial-for resting or hibernating in and laying eggs under.
MigrationSedentary.
CommentsDue to mass habitat and population losses within the region this species has become
significant within the local area (Mornington Peninsula and surrounding shires) and can be
considered of high local significance.
During autumn 2010 the author identified the occasional copperhead sunning themselves at
the base of tussocks or other low vegetation along the main track in the vicinity of the
wetlands.
Lowland Copperhead
Fauna survey of Balnarring Primary School, Balnarring, April, 2009 to May, 2010.
27
WHITE-LIPED SNAKE Drysdalia coronoides
StatusVic- Widespread, uncommon but considered secure. Threatened within the Gippsland Plain
Bio-region.
MPS- Uncommon in remaining grassy habitats.
BPS- Rare.
HabitatMPS- Across most understorey habitats remaining on the peninsula that still retain a
heathy, grassy or sedgy understorey.
BPS- Higher elevations around the wetlands that still retain a grassy or understorey.
General BiologyThe White-lipped Snake tends to live in drier areas, in cracks in the ground, or under grass
tussocks, fallen timber and tin, and venture out on warm days to feed on small lizards
(usually skinks).
This snake is NOT DANGEROUS TO HUMANS. The young are retained within the female until
fully developed, eventually being dropped in mid-summer, the brood numbering three to
four (Jenkins and Bartell 1980).
Tree hollow requirementPartial, to hide or hibernate in and lay eggs under.
MigrationSedentary.
CommentsSpecimens of the White-lipped Snake were caught under colour-bond tiles or seen sunning
themselves on the edges of grasslands in the morning. This snake appears to be coming
quite rare on the Mornington Peninsula, with population numbers being excellent
environmental indicators.
PIED CORMORANT Phalacrocorax varius race hypoleucos
StatusVIC- DSE-Near Threatened.
MPS- Uncommon.
BPS- Rare.
HabitatMPS- Bays, estuaries lakes and large dams.
BPS- Wetlands.
Fauna survey of Balnarring Primary School, Balnarring, April, 2009 to May, 2010.
28
General BiologyThe Pied Cormorant is an excellent diver where it captures fish, crustaceans and other
marine fauna underwater. After eating they roost on poles pylons, jetties and dead trees to
dry their feathers. They nest in trees, mangroves, bushes or man-made platforms at sea
and occasionally on the ground.
Breeding SeasonAll year round depending on available food supply. Nest constructed of sticks or debry.
Tree hollow requirementNil dependency.
MigrationNomadic moving around to find available food source.
Special Comments
Larger than Little Pied Cormorant and can be distinguished from other similar cormorants
by yellow face patch in front of eye. They appear to be rare on the property.
AUSTRALIAN SHELDUCK Tadorna tadornoides
StatusVIC- Common
MPS- Uncommon
BPS- Common at times
HabitatMPS-Edges of swamps, wetlands and large lakes which are fairly well vegetated.
BPS- Adults and sub-adults utilize the large wetland and surrounding pasture adjacent to
the property.
General BiologyThe Australian Shelduck is a large grazing duck which pair up and mate for life and return
back to the same old-growth tree hollow each year to breed. It has been reduced over much
of its southern range due to shooting in the past and extensive loss of hollow bearing trees.
During breeding the female incubate the eggs while the male establishes a territory up to
2km away where the young will be reared. After hatching the female guides the hatchlings
to the established territory and reunites with the male.
Breeding SeasonJune to October- nests in hollow limb of tall tree. They breed on the Southern Peninsula and
Westernport Catchment, in woodlands, forests and along creek gullies which retain old
growth trees with suitable nesting hollows.
Fauna survey of Balnarring Primary School, Balnarring, April, 2009 to May, 2010.
29
Tree hollow requirementPartial dependency, old growth tree hollow for breeding.
MigrationConcentrate on large lakes or estuaries in the summer and disperse to wide spread
breeding areas in autumn and winter. Can migrate nomadically over large distances.
Special CommentsBreeding tree hollows have been largely reduced since european settlement and young are
high preyed upon by introduced predators. The lake appears to be a feeding and resting
site for the areas fledging.
During this survey several adult and fledging were noted feeding around the edges of the
large wetland or floating on the water. When disturbed they would take off and fly in large
circles, calling out until danger had past. They would then fly back to their feeding or
roosting sites. Populations of Australian Shelduck appear to be low within the area.
AUSTRALIAN SHOVELLER Anas rhynchotis
StatusVIC- DSE Vulnerable
MPS-Uncommon to rare and vulnerable
BPS-Rare.
Fauna survey of Balnarring Primary School, Balnarring, April, 2009 to May, 2010.
30
HabitatMPS-Some large wetlands and lakes
BPS-Large lake
General BiologyThe Australasian Shoveler prefers heavily vegetated swamps and flood waters where it hides
on the water amongst the vegetation during the day. It feeds on the water surface by using
its broad bill which is fringed with fine, hair-like structures, through which it strains water
or mud. The lamellae retain small food items and seeds are also consumed.
Breeding SeasonAugust to December- nests on ground or on top of or in low stump above water.
Tree hollow requirementOccasional breeds on stumps above waterline.
MigrationMigrates nomadically locally and interstate to flood waters.
Special Comments
Only duck that has a noisy
ersicol flight. During this survey Australian Shoveller was
observed on the lake and appears to be rare within the area.
FRECKLED DUCK Stictonetta naevosa
StatusVIC- DSE-Endangered and FFG listed.
MPS- Endangered
BPS- Large lake.
HabitatMPS- Large open lakes.
BPS- Large lake.
General BiologyThe Freckled Duck breeds in heavily vegetated, permanent fresh swamps and moves to
fresh or salty lakes during drought conditions. They loaf by day in groups on fallen trees
and sand spits. They feed by filtering food just above the surface of the mud or by running
their bills along submerged logs coated in algae. Fish and molluscs are occasionally taken.
Breeding SeasonDependant on rainfall- nest a bowl shape of well woven fine sticks and lignum and built in
lignum or bushes at water-level.
Fauna survey of Balnarring Primary School, Balnarring, April, 2009 to May, 2010.
31
Tree hollow requirementNil.
MigrationNomadic moving around when habitat dries up.
Special Comments
One of the rarest water fowl in the world and is more closely related to swans than other
ducks. During this survey they were observed on the lake. They are rare within the greater
area.
LEWINS RAIL Rallus pectoralis
StatusVIC- DSE-Vulnerable and FFG listed.
MPS- Rare.
BPS- Rare.
HabitatMPS- Coastal areas and along creeks with grassy, reedy and thickly vegetated areas near
water.
BPS- Along drainage line.
General BiologyLewins Rail weaves grass and rushes into a nest, sometimes pulling the surrounding plants
down to form a roof. It is shy and lives in dense vegetation of swamps, lagoons and creeks
and is seldom seen. They create runways through the vegetation and can swim on or under
water. It feeds on insects and crustaceans by using its long thin beak to probe in all sorts of
cracks and holes.
Breeding SeasonAugust to December.
Tree hollow requirementNil.
MigrationSedentary.
Special Comments
Lewin‟s Rail is listed as Vulnerable in Victoria by DSE (2007) and is listed on the Flora and
Fauna Guaranteed Act and has been largely reduced in population numbers due to
extensive habitat loss, stock damage to remaining habitat and high feral predation. During
this survey a pair was observed along the drainage line.
Fauna survey of Balnarring Primary School, Balnarring, April, 2009 to May, 2010.
32
GREAT EGRET Ardea alba race modesta
StatusVIC- DSE-Vulnerable and FFG listed.
MPS- Uncommon to Rare
BPS- Uncommon.
HabitatMPS- Wetlands, estuaries on the peninsula and mudflats of Westernport Bay.
BPS- Shallow waters around the wetlands and lake.
General BiologyThe Great Egret is listed as Vulnerable in Victoria by DSE (2007), is listed on the Flora and
Fauna Guaranteed Act and is listed on the EPBC Act as migratory. It has suffered a high
decline due to loss of habitat and shooting in the past to obtain feathers for ladies hats.
Through-out Westernport Bay and the Mornington Peninsula the Great Egret spreads out
solitary, across the peninsula‟s water-bodies during winter to feed. It is a tall wading bird
found in wetlands, on the edges of estuaries and on the mudflats where it prefers to feed
on fish, frogs, crustaceans and aquatic insects.
Breeding SeasonThrough-out the year depending on availability of food. Nest a platform of sticks in a tree
or sometimes in a reed bed at ground level.
Tree hollow requirementNil.
MigrationNomadic moving around to find available food source.
Special Comments
During this survey the Great Egret was observed feeding on the edges of the lake and in the
wetlands The Great Egret population within the area appears to be low.
ROYAL SPOONBILL Platalea regia
StatusVIC- DSE-Vulnerable.
MPS- Uncommon.
BPS- Uncommon.
Fauna survey of Balnarring Primary School, Balnarring, April, 2009 to May, 2010.
33
HabitatMPS- Wetlands, estuaries, tidal creeks and occasional rural dam.
BPS- Shallow waters around the wetlands and lake.
General BiologyThe Royal Spoonbill prefers shallows of fresh and saltwater wetlands including intertidal
flats. It feeds by sweeping its submerged bill from side to side capturing aquatic
invertebrates. Nests are located in bushes, trees, over water and amongst other nesting
birds such-as ibis, darters and small cormorants.
Breeding SeasonOctober to May, nest a shallow nest of sticks.
Tree hollow requirementNil.
MigrationSedentary to Nomadic moving around after breeding when habitat dries up.
Special CommentsThe Royal Spoonbill has become rare on the Mornington Peninsula since european
settlement due to large-scale loss of habitat, stock damage to habitat, feral predation and
shooting for plumage. The Royal Spoonbill is listed as Vulnerable in Victoria by DSE (2007).
During this survey it was observed feeding on the edges of the lake and wetlands The
population of Royal Spoonbill within the area appears to be low.
Royal Spoonbill
Fauna survey of Balnarring Primary School, Balnarring, April, 2009 to May, 2010.
34
YELLOW-BILLED SPOONBILL Platalea flavipes
StatusVIC- Common.
MPS- Uncommon.
BPS- Rare.
HabitatMPS- Edges of wetlands, swamps or lake, mangroves and intertidal zones.
BPS-Edges of the lake.
General BiologyThe Yellow-billed Spoonbill is smaller than the Royal Spoonbill and they return to the same
breeding site year after year. They feed in shallow waters during both day and night by
moving their partly opened bill through the water from side to side. They grasp anything
that touches the inside of the bill which are then filtered through the bill tip and swallowed.
Breeding SeasonSeptember to April, a large nest of sturdy sticks placed on rushes, bushes and trees.
Tree hollow requirementNil dependency.
MigrationSedentary but will move nomadically at times of drought.
Special Comments
The Yellow-billed Spoonbill is rare within the property and greater area. Numbers were
greatly reduced 100 to 150 years ago due to shooting and wetland destruction.
LATHAMS SNIPE Gallinago hardwickii
StatusVIC- DSE-Near Threatened.
MPS- Uncommon summer migrant.
BPS-Rare.
DistributionMPS- Wetlands and wet grasslands.
BPS-. Grasslands above wetlands
General BiologyAfter breeding Latham Snipe gathers in large numbers on the shores of lakes in Japan and
set out for their southern migratory root to Australia. When they arrive their preferred
habitat includes thick growth near the edges of freshwater swamps, wet meadows and on
Fauna survey of Balnarring Primary School, Balnarring, April, 2009 to May, 2010.
35
the edges of streams. They are also occasionally observed in estuaries and mudflats. Diet
consists of a variety of invertebrates.
Breeding SeasonNot in Australia
Tree hollow requirementNil.
MigrationAfter breeding from the Northern Hemisphere to Australia in spring and leaves to return
during autumn.
Special CommentsLatham‟s Snipe is listed as Near Threatened in Victoria by DSE (2007) and is listed on the
EPBC Act as migratory. It migrates from Northern Asia for the peninsula summers. Habitat
on the peninsula has been greatly reduced since european settlement due to drainage of
swamps and flood mitigation programs. Small numbers were observed in grasslands around
the wetlands during this survey.
RED-KNEED DOTTEREL Erythrogonys cinctus
StatusVIC- Common.
MPS- Rare visitor.
BPS- Rare visitor.
HabitatMPS- Edges of wetlands, swamps or lakes.
BPS-Edges of the wetlands with bare banks.
General BiologyRed-kneed Dotterel are usually associated with the muddy edges of well-watered swamps
and lakes, where they feed around fallen trees, dead trees, and scattered branches around
the edges of the water body. They bob their heads and are very active and alert while
searching for insects and aquatic animal food.
Breeding SeasonSeptember to December, nest a small depression in the ground and usually in soft edges of
the water body they are at.
Tree hollow requirementNil dependency.
Fauna survey of Balnarring Primary School, Balnarring, April, 2009 to May, 2010.
36
MigrationSedentary but will move nomadically at times of drought.
Special Comments
The Red-kneed Dotterel occasionally visits the Mornington Peninsula when inland habitat
becomes dry due to drought. This event occurred in March 2009 when small numbers where
observed at Balnarring wetlands and some wetlands within the City of Casey.
BLACK-FRONTED DOTTEREL Elseyornis melanops
StatusVIC- Common
MPS- Uncommon
BPS- Rare
HabitatMPS- Through-out on bare edges of wetlands, lakes and farm dams.
BPS- edges of wetlands and lake.
General BiologyThe Black-fronted Dotterel is small and at home on the bare edges of fresh water
swamplands and farm dams where it hunts for insects and small aquatic animals. It is
sedentary but will move nomadically in search of suitable habitat when their haunts dry out.
They nest on the ground and nest is placed amidst flood-line debris.
Breeding SeasonAugust to January- nest depression in the ground and lined with small mud-pellets and
slender broken twigs. Eggs, chicks and adults are highly susceptible to predation from cats
and foxes. Nests can be trampled by stock and large areas of wetlands have been drained in
the past.
Tree hollow requirementNil
MigrationNomadic moving in search of suitable habitat.
Special Comments
During this survey the occasional pair was observed on exposed banks of the lake and
wetlands.
Fauna survey of Balnarring Primary School, Balnarring, April, 2009 to May, 2010.
37
CASPIAN TERN Sterna caspia
StatusVIC- DSE Near Threatened, FFG listed.
MPS- Uncommon to rare.
BPS- Rare.
HabitatMPS- Both bays and estuaries and occasionally on edges of lakes.
BPS- Hunting over wetland.
General BiologyThe Caspian Tern is at home along the coast and over inland lakes and water courses diving
for fish. It also takes the eggs and young of shore and land birds. Eggs are laid on the
ground, sand, pebble banks or on small sand islands in inlets and estuaries. They are
known to nest in small colonies off French Island on Rams Island in Westernport Bay. Easily
identified by its blood-red beak. Has become rare within the region.
Breeding SeasonSeptember to December
Tree hollow requirementNil.
MigrationCan migrate north and can be nomadic in search of food.
Special Comments
During this survey a pair were observed hunting over the lake and wetlands, No nesting was
observed.
WEDGE-TAILED EAGLE Aquila audax
StatusVIC- Common
MPS- Uncommon to rare.
BPS- Rare.
HabitatMPS- Remaining bushland sites and rural land.
BPS- Hunting over wetlands.
Fauna survey of Balnarring Primary School, Balnarring, April, 2009 to May, 2010.
38
General BiologyThe Wedge-tailed Eagle is the largest of the flight birds within the Australian Mainland. It is
a large carrion eater that is occasionally observed flying overhead on high thermals. Within
the greater area breeding is confined to the foothills of the Southern Peninsula and French
Island. However they spread out to greater rural areas to hunt. During this survey up to two
individuals were observed flying over the property possible belonging to the French Island
breeding pairs.
Breeding SeasonJune to August- large nest of sticks constructed in large tree.
Tree hollow requirementNil.
MigrationSedentary.
Special Comments
During this survey the occasional specimen was hunting over the lake and wetlands, No nesting was
observed. Due to loss of habitat and a large reduction in population numbers this species is
now considered significant to the local areas. Within the region populations of Wedge-tail
Eagles are rare to uncommon.
SWAMP HARRIER Circus approximans
StatusVIC- Common
MPS- Uncommon.
BPS- Rare.
HabitatMPS- Remaining bushland site, wetlands, coastal swamps and rural land.
BPS- Hunting over wetlands.
General BiologyThe Swamp Harrier is a large flight birds within the Australian Mainland. It is a large hunting
and carrion eater that is occasionally observed flying overhead on high thermals or hunting
over appropriate habitat. They feed upon small to medium mammals, wetland fowl and
some insects. Within the greater area breeding is confined in wetlands and swamps that
retain tall dense reeds.
Breeding SeasonSeptember to January- Nest of reed storks and sticks lined on the inside with grasses and
constructed on the ground amongst swamp vegetation.
Fauna survey of Balnarring Primary School, Balnarring, April, 2009 to May, 2010.
39
Tree hollow requirementNil.
MigrationAfter breeding, during autumn they migrate to Northern Queensland and return to Victoria
to breed in September.
Special Comments
During this survey the occasional Swamp Harrier was observed flying overhead hunting for
prey and they are known to nest at nearby Coolart Wetlands.
COMMON BRONZEWING Phaps chalcoptera
StatusVIC- Common.
MPS- Relatively common.
BPS- Rare
HabitatMPS- Most woodlands and some forests across the peninsula.
BPS- Woodlands and scrub.
General BiologyThe Common Bronzewing is mainly a terrestrial feeder feeding on a variety of seed on the
ground and retreating up into trees when disturbed. It builds a flimsy nest of small sticks
usually on a small tree fork within a eucalypt.
It is highly susceptible to habitat loss,
predation by dogs, foxes and cats and possibly Black Rats preying upon eggs and chicks. It
is now rated at high local significance due to large-scale population and habitat losses
within the local areas.
Breeding SeasonLate spring to late summer.
Tree hollow requirementNil.
MigrationSedentary
Special Comments
The Common Bronzewing is now rated at high local significance due to mass population
and habitat losses within the Mornington Peninsula. Within the woodlands and swamp scrub
of the property during this survey they were occasionally observed feeding on the ground
and would quickly fly up into the trees when disturbed.
Fauna survey of Balnarring Primary School, Balnarring, April, 2009 to May, 2010.
40
YELLOW-TAILED BLACK-COCKATOO Calyptorhynchus funereus
StatusVIC- Common.
MPS- Relatively common.
BPS- Uncommon
HabitatMPS- Most woodlands and forests across the peninsula including coastal bushland. Feeds in
the tops of pine rows.
BPS- Flying over property.
General BiologyThe Common Bronzewing is mainly a terrestrial feeder feeding on a variety of seed on the
ground and retreating up into trees when disturbed. It builds a flimsy nest of small sticks
usually on a small tree fork within a eucalypt.
It is highly susceptible to habitat loss,
predation by dogs, foxes and cats and possibly Black Rats preying upon eggs and chicks. It
is now rated at high local significance due to large-scale population and habitat losses
within the local areas.
Breeding SeasonJuly to January- nests in a hollow in a tree usually very high up.
Tree hollow requirementPartial dependency- for nesting only.
MigrationPartially migratory- moving around to find new food sources.
Special Comments
Large flocks of Yellow-tailed Black Cockatoos use to dominate the regions skies but due to
mass habitat and large hollow bearing old-growth eucalypt losses of the past, this species
has severely declined. However they are now slowly increasing to a couple of 50 to 100
sized flocks. They are known to nest on nearby French island.
Within the property a largish flock of up to 20 individuals was occasionally observed flying
overhead and were sometimes observed foraging in Eucalypt canopies. Within the area
populations of Yellow-tailed Black-Cockatoos appear to be uncommon, however new flocks
have arrived since the 2009 summer bush fires north of Melbourne.
Fauna survey of Balnarring Primary School, Balnarring, April, 2009 to May, 2010.
41
MUSK LORIKEET Glossopsitta concinna race concinna
StatusVic- Common.
MPS- Uncommon.
BPS- Rare.
HabitatMPS- Remaining woodlands and urban areas.
BPS- Woodlands.
General BiologyThe Musk Lorikeet is readily seen in the summer and autumn months feeding on pollen and
nectar of flowering eucalypts. Their green plumage blends in well with the vegetation but
their constant chattering gives them away. They can occur in mixed flocks with other
species of lorikeet.
Breeding Season
August to January and nest in a hollow limb of a tree.
Tree hollow requirementFor breeding only.
MigrationNomadic moving around to follow eucalypt flowering periods. Musk Lorikeets are usually
summer and autumn migrants to the Mornington Peninsula where they feed upon a variety
of flowering eucalypt blossoms. Some have been over wintering in the last five years and
migration numbers have declined in numbers across the region.
Special Comments
During this survey feeding in eucalypts and flying overhead in small flocks.
SOUTHERN BOOBOOK Ninox novaeseelandiae
StatusVIC- Usually common- Threatened in the Gippsland Plain Bio-region.
MPS- Uncommon to rare and possibly threatened.
BPS- Rare and threatened.
HabitatMPS- Remaining woodlands and forests that still retain old-growth breeding hollows.
BPS- Woodlands.
Fauna survey of Balnarring Primary School, Balnarring, April, 2009 to May, 2010.
42
General BiologyThe Southern Boobook is much smaller than the Powerful Owl and thus hunts smaller prey
which include small birds, small mammals and insects such-as moth and flying beetles.
They live in pairs but usually roost singly in dense canopy trees.
Breeding SeasonSeptember to November in a hollow limb or trunk of tree.
Tree hollow requirementPartial for nesting only.
MigrationSedentary but some Tasmanian specimens migrate to the mainland during winter including
the Mornington Peninsula.
Special CommentsDuring this survey specimens were identified through-out remaining habitat after dusk by
their distinctive call. Others were observed roosting in trees.
The Southern Boobook has become rare on the Mornington Peninsula (Malcolm Legg) and
within the Gippsland Plain Bioregion (Radford & Bennett 2005). This is due to mass habitat
and population losses and clearing of essential old-growth hollow bearing eucalypts which
this species utilises to breed, or roost within and to feed on some of the animals that also
live within.
WHITE-THROATED NEEDLETAIL Hirundapus caudaculus
StatusVIC- Common at times.
MPS- Common at times.
BPS- Common at times.
HabitatMPS- Thermals over the Mornington Peninsula.
BPS- Flying over property.
General BiologyThe White-throated Needletail are the fastest flying birds in the world and feed and drink
while flying. They feed on insects high on thermals to just above ground level. At night they
roost in trees in forested hill country.
Breeding SeasonNot in Australia
Fauna survey of Balnarring Primary School, Balnarring, April, 2009 to May, 2010.
43
Tree hollow requirementNil dependency.
MigrationMigrate from northern Asia in October and work their way down the Great Dividing Range to
Victoria by mid to late summer. Migration back to the Northern Hemisphere occurs in mid
March.
Special CommentsDuring this survey specimens were observed soaring over the property feeding on insects.
WHITE-EARED HONEYEATER Lichenostomus leucotis
StatusVIC- Usually common.
MPS- Common to rare and possibly threatened in some areas.
BPS- Rare and threatened.
HabitatMPS- Remaining woodlands and forests through-out.
BPS- Woodlands.
General BiologyThe White-eared Honeyeater is a bold an inquisitive honeyeater that loves nectar. They
pollinate many indigenous flowering trees and shrubs and also feed on insects.
Breeding SeasonAugust to April- nest a cup of bark strips and grasses bound with spider webs and usually
placed 1 to 2 m above the ground.
Tree hollow requirementNil dependency.
MigrationSedentary to nomadic moving around locally following sought after flowering.
Special CommentsWithin the property the White-eared Honeyeater was observed feeding or foraging in
eucalypt canopies through-out the woodlands. Within the property the population appears
to be rare through-out the woodlands.
Fauna survey of Balnarring Primary School, Balnarring, April, 2009 to May, 2010.
44
BROWN-HEADED HONEYEATER Melithreptus brevirostris race brevirostris
StatusVIC- Common but has become threatened within the Gippsland Plain Bio-region.
MPS- Uncommon to rare.
BPS- Rare
HabitatMPS- Woodlands and forests through-out remaining native vegetation.
BPS- Woodlands.
General BiologyThe Brown-headed Honeyeater is a small flock bird which is usually confined to the upper
canopies of eucalypts in the higher rainfall areas on the Mornington Peninsula. Here it
forages for small insects amongst the leaf canopy. And builds a nest in the outer foliage of
a tree.
Breeding SeasonAugust to December- nest a small cup of bark, grass and spider webs.
Tree hollow requirementNil.
MigrationNomadic moving around as food desires.
Special Comments
It has become rare on the Mornington Peninsula (Malcolm Legg) and within the Gippsland
Plain Bioregion (Radford & Bennett 2005). This is due to mass populations and habitat
losses within the region resulting from clearing of habitat and loss of essential feeding and
breeding trees. This has also been accelerated by weed invasion and die-back resulting in
the species slipping into a regional significance rating. Can be confused with juvenile
White-napped Honeyeaters.
Within the property the occasional smallish flock of Brown Headed Honeyeaters was
observed feeding in eucalypt canopies. Through-out the property the population appears to
be rare.
WHITE-FRONTED CHAT Epthianura albifrons
StatusVic- Moderately Common.
MPS- Uncommon.
BPS- Rare.
Fauna survey of Balnarring Primary School, Balnarring, April, 2009 to May, 2010.
45
HabitatMPS- Exposed edges of swamps including coastal, wetlands lakes and dams.
BPS- Exposed edges of lake and wetlands
General BiologyThe White-fronted Chat gathers in small flocks after breeding and can be seen feeding on
the edges of wetlands, swamps, and lakes. Its diet includes ants, caterpillars, beetles and
grass-hoppers.
Breeding SeasonJuly to January- nest a cup of fine twigs, rootlets and plant stalks, lined on the inside with
fine grass and hair.
Tree hollow requirementNil
MigrationSedentary.
Special Comments
Within the region the White-fronted Chat is found on the exposed edges of salt marshes,
swamps, lakes and dams where it forages for insects. It is becoming increasing rare within
the local areas due to habitat loss and feral predation.
Through-out the property small flocks of White-fronted Chat were occasionally observed on
the exposed muddy edges of the lake and wetlands.
FLAME ROBIN Pectroica phoenicea
StatusVIC- Common to Uncommon. Now threatened in the Gippsland Plain Bioregion.
MPS- Uncommon winter migrant.
BPS-Uncommon.
DistributionMPS- Woodlands and farms across rural areas.
BPS- Fringes of open grazing areas.
General BiologyThe Flame Robin is a small attractive bird whom feeds on worms and grubs on the ground.
They migrate from the Great Dividing Range to lower elevations during autumn and winter
returning to breed in early spring.
Fauna survey of Balnarring Primary School, Balnarring, April, 2009 to May, 2010.
46
Breeding SeasonAugust to January- nest cup-shaped made from fine strips of bark, grass and fibre and
coated with spider webs or dry moss.
Tree hollow requirementNil.
MigrationSmall flocks in autumn-winter dispersal
Special CommentsDuring this survey Flame Robins were observed sitting on paddock fences during colder
months especially the males with their florescent orange chests.
EASTERN YELLOW ROBIN Eopsaltria australis race australis
StatusVic- Moderately Common. Become threatened within the Gippsland Plain Bioregion.
MPS- Uncommon.
BPS- Rare.
HabitatMPS- Forests, woodlands and coastal scrubs through-out remaining native bushland.
BPS- Woodlands and Swamp Scrub.
General BiologyThe Eastern Yellow Robin is a small foraging bird confined to low dense vegetation, tree
trunks and riparian and coastal zones that still retain dense stands of thickets. Food
consists of spiders, moths, grasshoppers, wasps and flies and nests are built in a slender
folk in a tree or sapling. Regularly perches sideways on tree trunks.
Breeding SeasonJune to February- nest a cup of bark strips, fine twigs and grass bound with spider webs
and lined with fibres or grass. The outside is lightly decorated with lichens.
Tree hollow requirementNil
MigrationSedentary.
Special Comments
It has become rare on the Mornington Peninsula (Malcolm Legg) and within the Gippsland
Plain Bioregion (Radford & Bennett 2005). This is due to mass populations and habitat
Fauna survey of Balnarring Primary School, Balnarring, April, 2009 to May, 2010.
47
losses within the region resulting from clearing of habitat and loss of essential feeding and
breeding thickets. This has also been accelerated by weed invasion and die-back resulting
in the species slipping into a regional significance rating. Over clearing of weed species to
sudden can cause local extinctions.
Within the property the occasional pair or small family flock of Eastern Yellow Robins were
observed feeding on the ground, perched sideways on trunks, or heard calling from dense
thickets and scrub through-out. Population numbers appear to be low on the property and
have only moved in recently.
GREY CURRAWONG Strepera ersicolour race ersicolour
StatusVIC- Common to Uncommon. Now threatened in the Gippsland Plain Bioregion.
MPS- Uncommon to rare.
BPS- Rare.
HabitatMPS- Forests and woodlands in remaining bushland and some agricultural land near
remnant bush.
BPS- Woodlands and scrub.
General BiologyThe Grey Currawong is a large foraging bird of tree trunks and on the ground. Prey consists
largely of insects but small animals are also taken. They keep their territory all year round
and fledglings will move out to claim new territory.
Breeding SeasonJuly to November- nest a shallow cup-shaped bulky nest, larger than a magpie but of looser
construction and lined with coarse rootlets and grass.
Tree hollow requirementNil.
MigrationSedentary to nomadic.
Special Comments
The Grey Currawong has become rare on the Mornington Peninsula (Malcolm Legg) and
within the Gippsland Plain Bioregion (Radford & Bennett 2005). This is due to large losses of
woodland and forest associated gums and vegetation within the region which are essential
for foraging, feeding and breeding.
Fauna survey of Balnarring Primary School, Balnarring, April, 2009 to May, 2010.
48
The Grey Currawong was occasionally observed foraging on trunks and branches throughout the woodlands but no breeding was observed.
CLAMOROUS REED WARBLER Acrocephalus stentoreus
StatusVIC- Common.
MPS- Uncommon to locally common.
BPS- Rare.
HabitatMPS- Mainly found in reed beds across wetlands. Such-as Tootgarook Swamp, Coolart
Chinamans Creek etc.
BPS- Common Reed thickets along the drainage line.
General BiologyThe Clamorous Reed Warbler is at home amongst reed beds and other dense vegetation
near water where it builds a nest amongst the reeds. Diet consists of insects and their
bright song can b e heard in well watered areas.
Breeding SeasonOctober to February- nest a deep cup of interwoven strips of reeds and rushes and lined
with fine grass.
Tree hollow requirementNil.
MigrationReturns to Mornington Peninsula in early October to reed and rush beds to breed and
migrates north after breeding to Northern Australia.
Special CommentsThe Clamorous Reed-Warbler has been reduced over much of its range due to habitat
clearing and drainage, agricultural practices, and high predation by feral species during
nesting. During this survey pairs bred along the Common Reed thickets.
MISTLETOEBIRD Dicaeum hirundinaceum race hirundinaceum
StatusVic- Moderately Common and has become threatened in the Gippsland Plain Bioregion.
MPS- Uncommon.
BPS- Rare.
Fauna survey of Balnarring Primary School, Balnarring, April, 2009 to May, 2010.
49
HabitatMPS- Woodland and forests in remaining native bushland.
BPS- Woodlands.
General BiologyThe Mistletoebird is a small foraging bird of canopies within its habitat feeding on berries
and insects. It mainly feeds on mistletoe fruit and spreads the parasite through-out.
Tree hollow requirementNil.
MigrationNomadic, following fruiting mistletoe periods.
Special Comments
The Mistletoebird has become rare on the Mornington Peninsula (Malcolm Legg) and within
the Gippsland Plain Bioregion (Radford & Bennett 2005). This is due to large losses of
woodland and forest associated gums and mistletoe within the region which are essential
for foraging, feeding and breeding.
They appear to be rare through-out the property.
SHORT-BEAKED ECHIDNA Tachyglossus aculeatus
StatusVic- Widespread and secure. Has become threatened within the Gippsland Plain Bioregion.
MPS- Common to uncommon
BPS- Rare
HabitatMPS- Through-out remaining native bushland and some rural areas.
BPS- Through-out.
General BiologyDuring winter the Short-beaked Echidna rises from its den on warm winter afternoons to
hunt for ant larvae. Diggings are common through-out its habitat especially within ant
colonies. It is an ancient monotreme laying eggs into its pouch and suckling its young.
During the breeding season males follow the female in a manner called an echidna train.
Breeding SeasonJune and September
Tree hollow requirementFor nesting and breeding.
Fauna survey of Balnarring Primary School, Balnarring, April, 2009 to May, 2010.
50
MigrationSedentary.
Special CommentsShort-beaked Echidnas are prone to road deaths and attacks by dogs and foxes when
harassed on hard surfaces. These factors along with loss of large scale habitat and
population numbers within the Gippsland Plain Bioregion has led to this species to now
become a regionally threatened species.
Within the property occasional diggings were encountered through-out most EVC‟s. And the
population appears to be low.
KOALA Phascolarctos cinereus
StatusVic- Regional
MPS-Uncommon to rare
BPS- Rare
HabitatMPS- Spread throughout the rural areas of the peninsula, coastal villages of Westernport
and bushland areas containing sought after gum species.
BPS- Through-out woodlands.
General BiologyThe Koalas is a large arboreal mammal that spends most of its life asleep in a tree folk only
to wake up to browse on eucalyptus leaves. Mothers care for their young solitary and joeys
are raised in their pouches until they are too large and are then moved around on mothers
back.
Breeding SeasonOctober to November.
Tree hollow requirementNil
MigrationNomadic, moving around scented trails to obtain palatable leaves. Young males are pushed
out to find new territory.
Special CommentsLoss of large areas of habitat from clearing and large population declines due to over
shooting for furs, road deaths, isolation and disease has led this species into a regionally
threatened status. Disease free populations within the region are only known to occur on
Fauna survey of Balnarring Primary School, Balnarring, April, 2009 to May, 2010.
51
French Island. And it was from here that majority of Victoria was repopulated with. On the
property koalas are rare but increased numbers are seen during the breeding season.
.
Male Koala browsing in an old Manna Gum within the woodlands.
BLACK WALLABY Wallabia bicolor
StatusVictoria- Threatened within the Gippsland Plain Bio-region.
MPS- Common to uncommon
BPS- Rare
HabitatMPS- Westernport Bay and some of Port Phillip Bay Foreshores, Devilbend Reservoir and
surrounding bushland, Southern Mornington Peninsula Foothills, Nepean Peninsula etc. In
areas that still contain dense thickets and browsing sites.
BPS- Through-out woodlands, scrub and dense reeds.
General BiologyThe Black Wallaby is a terrestrial marsupial and is essentially solitary in nature, although
individuals occasionally feed together at prime feeding sites. Males and females only come
together to mate. A single young is carried in the pouch until about 256 days old. They are
a browsing macropod eating a wide range of plant species after dusk and sheltering in
dense thickets during the day.
Breeding PeriodApril to September.
Fauna survey of Balnarring Primary School, Balnarring, April, 2009 to May, 2010.
52
Tree hollow requirementNil. Although they could shelter in large fallen hollow trunks, during harsh conditions.
MigrationNil
Special Comments
During this survey Black Wallabies scats were found in the swamp scrub, dense reeds and
occasionally in the woodlands.
Within the Gippsland Plain Bioregion the Black Wallabies habitat has been drastically
reduced along with large scale population loses, feral predation, road deaths and illegal
shooting etc. resulting in this species dropping into a threatened status within the region.
MICROBATS
Species of micro-bat occurs through-out but are low in numbers due to the immature
nature of the woodlands. Nesting boxes will attract roost sites and can be a replacements
for tree hollows until the trees have matured.
Micro-bats are excellent environmental indicators of old-growth forests or woodlands and
prey heavily on insects each night, including mosquitoes.
SWAMP RAT Rattus lutreolus
StatusVic- Widespread, common and considered secure. Threatened within the Gippsland Plain
Bio-region.
MPS- Common to Uncommon in remaining habitats.
BPS- Common in suitable habitat.
HabitatMPS- Across most habitats remaining on the peninsula that still retain a grassy or sedgy
understorey.
BPS- Through-our tin areas that still retain a grassy or sedgy understorey.
General BiologySwamp Rats are small rodents that occupy the dense understoreys of various EVC‟s across
the Mornington Peninsula. Here they excavate runways underneath such vegetation and
burrows with nesting chambers at the end of the runways. They feed on a variety of
rhizomes and seed produced by the understorey.
Breeding SeasonSeptember to October and January to February.
Fauna survey of Balnarring Primary School, Balnarring, April, 2009 to May, 2010.
53
Tree hollow requirementNil.
MigrationSedentary.
Special CommentsWithin the Gippsland Plain Bioregion the Swamp Rat‟s habitat has been drastically reduced
along with large scale population loses, feral predation and displacement etc. resulting in
this species dropping into a threatened status within the region.
During this survey Swamp Rat diggings, mounds and runways were found in most areas of
the property that retain a dense sedgy or grassy understorey. Some were sampled in Elliot
traps, hair tubes and filmed on cameras. Through-out the property populations appear to
be stable where appropriate sought after habitat occurs.
Swamp Rat
4.4
HABITAT CORRIDORS
The property is part of an important bio-link that extends from the foothills to Westernport
Bay. It is also an important bio-link in the Merricks Creek catchment connecting to the creek
further south of the property.
Fauna survey of Balnarring Primary School, Balnarring, April, 2009 to May, 2010.
54
4.5 FIVE PHASES OF EXTINCTION SINCE EUROPEAN SETTLEMENT.
First phase
The land is cleared and only a few large and several small areas of indigenous bush remain.
These areas are now national parks and large foreshore reserves (Westernport side) which
retain most species (especially if feral works and weeding have been conducted) apart from
larger carnivores (which have been replaced by foxes and cats) and a few habitat specific
species which are now extinct: Tree Goanna, Emu, Spot-tailed Quoll, Eastern Quoll,
Common Wombat, etc. Several threatened species in phase two are still reasonably common
in this phase and all environmental indicator species are present in reasonable numbers.
Such examples include Mornington Peninsula National Park, Point Nepean National Park,
Devilbend Reservoir, Westernport coastal bio-link from Tooradin to Flinders.
Second phase
These include bushland areas set aside for state parks, regional reserves and remaining
large bush patches on private land. Some species have become extinct and several species
are either endangered or threatened at various levels. Most environmental indicator species
are present and in reasonable numbers eg Arthur‟s Seat State Park, Peninsula Gardens
Bushland Reserve, Mt Eliza Regional Park, Mt Martha Regional Park, Warringine Park,
Tootgarook Swamp etc.
Third phase
Small to medium-sized Parks Victoria reserves and some foreshore reserves (Port Phillip Bay
side) and council reserves that retain good habitat, foreshore reserves, and smaller patches
on private land. Most of these sites have weed infestations and feral fauna rules. Several
species are threatened at a regional and local level. Some state significant species still
remain and if you‟re lucky one or two nationally threatened species. Several environmental
indicator species have disappeared and the health of the ecosystem is poor and failing.
Some examples include rural roadsides, large urban bushland reserves, smallish rural
reserves and on private property which are less than 10-20 acres in size and still retain
some remnant bushland.
Fourth phase
Urbanisation has crept in and the only indigenous habitat that remains is a few isolated
pockets along creeks, drainage lines and small shire reserves. All of these reserves are
usually highly degraded and the ecosystems are facing extinction in the final stages. Some
common fauna remains but several are quickly depleted and displaced by domestic cats,
dogs and vermin. Most significant species and environmental indicator species have become
extinct; However a couple could still remain. Noisy Miners dominate on the fringes and
chase smaller insect gleaming birds away.
Fifth phase
Suburbanizations, where all faunal species are lost apart from a few common species and
introduced species thrive. New vegetation planted within urban areas are usually exotic or
Fauna survey of Balnarring Primary School, Balnarring, April, 2009 to May, 2010.
55
non-indigenous natives and attracts exotic species and out of balanced native bird species.
All significant and faunal environmental indicator species are pretty much extinct.
4.6
FAUNA ENVIRONMENTAL INDICATORS
Fauna environmental indicators measure the health of a particular ecosystem. This is
achieved by measuring abundance and diversity of fauna environmental indicator species
within a broad vegetation type and includes the size and health of remaining habitat, the
abundance of feral species and the presence of old-growth trees and terrestrial logs with
hollows.
TABLE 3: Current status of the Grassy Woodland ecosystems within the property.
Environmental indicators of Grassy
Woodlands
Reptiles
Birds
Mammals
Tree Dragon
Whites Skink
Southern Water Skink
Eastern three-lined Skink
Delicate Skink
Metallic Skink
Southern Grass Skink
Blotched Blue-tongue
Common Blue-tongue
White-lipped Snake
Painted Button Quail
Buff-banded Rail
Southern Boobook
Powerful Owl
Sacred Kingfisher
Varied Sitella
White-eared Honeyeater
Brown-headed Honeyeater
Crescent Honeyeater
New Holland Honeyeater
Pink Robin
Eastern Yellow Robin
Crested Shrike-tit
Grey Shrike Thrush
Golden Whistler
Rufous Whistler
Rufous Fantail
Grey Currawong
Mistletoebird
Short-beaked Echidna
Agile Antechinus
White-footed Dunnart
Southern Brown Bandicoot
Long-nosed Bandicoot
Sugar Glider
Feathertail Glider
Black Wallaby
Sothern Forest Bat
Large Forest Bat
20 of 39 environmental indicators have
become extinct within the Balnarring
Primary School property since
European settlement.
The property can be considered to be in
phase 3 of the 5 phase extinction rate.
Balnarring Primary School‟s natural ecosystems are in recovery from an initial phase 5
extinction rate of 20 years ago (when the property was cleared grazing paddocks) to a
current phase 3 of the 5 phase extinction rate. This ecosystem recovery over the last 20
years is the results of extensive re-vegetation and wetland works conducted by the
Balnarring Primary School community friends. Such works has seen several fauna
environmental indicator species return to the property.
Fauna survey of Balnarring Primary School, Balnarring, April, 2009 to May, 2010.
56
5.0
DISCUSSION
5.1
DECAPOD CRUSTACEANS & FISH
Freshwater Shrimp were found along the main drainage line especially at Frankston-Flinders
Road and also occur in the lake around the edges in the sedges and reeds. They probably
occur in the wetlands at times but are quickly consumed by Mosquitofish,
Burrowing Crayfish were found to occur along the drainage lines and within the wetlands
and Swamp Scrub. Mud chimneys at the entrance to their burrows are easily recognized
within these habitat zones.
Short-finned Eels were found to occur within the lake and during wet times in the wetlands.
This ancient fish can also become trapped in the wetlands and lake during dry periods and
also migrate up and down the drainage line during wet periods.
Short-finned Eel in Merricks Creek.
Common Galaxias were found to occur along the drainage line at Frankston-Flinders Road
and probably occur within the lake and during wet periods within the wetlands.
Both fish migrate up and down the drainage line and Merricks Creek and both have unusual
spawning sites. The Short-finned Eel when mature migrates to the Coral Sea to spawn and
when they hatch the juvenile glass eels swims back to the same creeks as the adults. The
Common Galaxias spawns on the edges of the Merricks Creek estuary and the newly
hatched juveniles are washed out to sea. They return to the creek at about 6 months of age.
*Mosquitofish are introduced predatory fish which eat juvenile fish, their eggs and attack
the fins of adult fish. They probably also prey heavily upon the macro-invertebrates within
the waters along with their eggs. Eradication methods are discussed further in this report.
Other fish species that would utilize the water ways include: Spotted Galaxias and Tupong.
Fauna survey of Balnarring Primary School, Balnarring, April, 2009 to May, 2010.
57
5.2
AMPHIBIANS
Due to the wet nature of so many habitats within the property amphibian species are
common and diverse. Species of froglets occur around the edges of the wetlands and
drainage line especially where grassed areas become inundated. Southern Bullfrogs are
spread out in the woodlands and dryer soils where they bury themselves during dry
conditions only to resurface during wet conditions to breed within the wetlands. Spotted
marsh frogs live within the wetlands and bury themselves when they dry out. Two species of
tree frogs inhabit the reeds and sedges around the edges of the lake, wetlands and
inundated areas.
All species are common species and are well represented within the study site. Habitat
specific and environmental indicator species were also sampled and appear to be relatively
common. These include: Haswell‟s Froglet and Southern Toadlet. Indicator species that were
absent include the Victorian Smooth Froglet and Growling Grass Frog. The Growling Grass
Frog was known to occur at the site in the early 90‟s but since has appeared to have
disappeared. Further survey effort is required to obtain their status within the property.
Female and male Southern Bull Frogs.
5.3
REPTILES
Within the property reptile species appear to be reasonably diverse within different habitats.
Habitat and environmental indicator species that were present include: Common Longnecked Tortoise, Southern Water Skink, Delicate Skink, Southern Grass Skink, Blotched Bluetongue and White-lipped Snake. The indicator species that appear to be absent but are
represented at some sites within the region include: Swamp Skink, Metallic Skink, Glossy
Grass Skink and Eastern Small-eyed Snake. These species should be sampled during
appropriate times to determine their presence within the property.
Fauna survey of Balnarring Primary School, Balnarring, April, 2009 to May, 2010.
58
Garden Skink
5.4
BIRDS
Several common birds were observed while conducting this survey and are included in the
over-all list in Appendix 2. Habitat and environmental indicator species were found to be
present in reasonable numbers across the property considering that it was cleared grazing
land 20 years prior. Habitat and environmental indicator species are those species which are
part of a healthy natural ecosystem but are rapidly declining or becoming extinct where
there habitat has been cleared, reduced or altered. Species which were present during this
survey include: raptors, Common Bronze-wing, Cuckoos, Cockatoos, Rosellas, Lorikeets,
Superb Fairy-wren, White Browed Scrub-wren, Thornbills, White-eared Honeyeater, Yellowfaced Honeyeater, Brown-headed Honeyeater, Eastern Yellow Robin, Golden Whistler, Rufus
Whistler, Grey-shrike Thrush, Grey Fantail and Mistletoebird. Wattlebirds, mudlarks,
butcherbirds, magpies, ravens and swallows etc make up the common species and several
wetland species were present during different seasons. Spring and autumn migratory birds
from other parts of Australia and the Northern Hemisphere were also present at their
appropriate times of arrival.
Black Swan with cygnets.
Fauna survey of Balnarring Primary School, Balnarring, April, 2009 to May, 2010.
59
Pair of Australasian Grebes
Purple Swamphen
Pair of Black Swans with cygnets.
Fauna survey of Balnarring Primary School, Balnarring, April, 2009 to May, 2010.
60
5.5
MAMMALS
The Short-beaked Echidna and Black Wallaby appear to be rare within the property and
diggings and scats were noted seldomly. Both species move in and out of the site according
to available food and conditions. Common Brushtail Possum and Common Ringtail Possum
have become rare since the 2008-2009 summer where several days over 40*C occurred and
greatly reduced the populations. Pre natural disaster, both species were considered
common and have not recovered since. Koalas appear to be rare and utilize the various
planted eucalypts through-out. The breeding season is the best time to see them. The
Swamp Rat appears to be common in appropriate habitats and runways and mounds can be
found under dense understoreys. Species of micro-bat are uncommon as appropriate
roosting sites aren‟t apparent due to the immature nature of the woodlands.
Other species that were absent and have probably become extinct within the area include:
Eastern Quoll, Spot-tailed, Quoll, Agile Antechinus, Dusky Antechinus, Southern Brown
Bandicoot, Long-nosed Bandicoot, Feather-tail Glider, Eastern Pygmy-possum, Sugar Glider,
Long-nosed Potaroo, Eastern Grey Kangaroo, Water Rat, New Holland Mouse and Dingo.
Several of these species are extinct within the region and state but some species will move
onto the property over time if feral species are controlled.
5.6
FUTURE SURVEY WORK
Future surveys need to be deployed to determine if some threatened species still occur
within the property. The property should have a complete fauna survey conducted every 5
years to determine whether fauna populations have increased or declined and whether new
species have moved into the site.
5.7
POTENTIAL NEGATIVE IMPACTS ON FAUNA SPECIES
5.7.1 Feral Animals
Mosquitofish
Mosquitofish are an introduced predator fish that feed upon juvenile native fish and their
eggs, tadpoles and their eggs, fresh-water macro-invertebrates, and nibble on the fins and
faces of adult native fish. They are probably the reason why the Growling Grass Frog has
disappeared from the site. Eradication measures are essential for this species and should be
discussed with the author.
Introduced Rodents
*House Mice were sampled in Elliot traps and filmed on infra-red cameras and appear to be
reasonably common through-out.
*Black Rats appear to be common and specimens were filmed on infra-red camera and
sampled in Elliot traps. The high food source associated with schools and wetlands makes
Fauna survey of Balnarring Primary School, Balnarring, April, 2009 to May, 2010.
61
an ideal situation for these two species to thrive. *Black Rats eat bird eggs and young, small
lizards, chew on the limbs and tails of hibernating adults and probably eat large proportion
of available insect and fungi food source, essential for fauna diets.
European Rabbit
No evidence of *European Rabbit or Hare were detected during this survey.
Feral Cat
*Feral Cat foot-prints and scats were occasional found along tracks. No cats were sampled
or filmed through-out the survey period. During the survey period numbers appeared to be
low as very few scats and footprints were sighted. Due to low population numbers at
present „now‟ is the time to eradicate this feral species from the area.
Red Fox
*Red Fox numbers appear to be high within the property. Fox foot prints were observed and
scats were found along tracks. Majority of the scats were fresh and several were collected
around the outer permitter of the wetlands and lake. Several mammal hairs, bones and
feathers were analysis within the scats. The occasional fox was filmed on infra-red camera.
No fox or feral animal control programs are currently being conducted within the site or
greater area. However Balnarring Foreshore Reserve is currently running an on-going feral
control program in conjunction with adjacent foreshore reserves. Further management
actions are discussed in section 6 of this report.
Introduced Birds
The *Spotted Turtle-Dove competes for essential seed with native birds such as
bronzewings, rosellas and finches. * Common Blackbirds appear to be replacing the native
Bassian Thrush and now spread introduced berry weed-seed through-out. The *Common
Myna and *Common Starling are aggressive towards other birds and arboreal fauna and
out-compete them for essential tree hollows. They also spread lice and possible diseases.
Further management is discussed in section 6 of this report.
5.7.2 Weeds
Through-out the property small infestations of weeds were observed during field-work and
most appear to be currently eradicated or controlled. Habitat changing weeds such-as
Sweet Pittosporum, pine trees, English Ivy, Bridal Creeper, Three-cormed garlic, blackberries
etc change habitats and destroy the essential grassy, sedgy and heathy understories,
consequently killing the overstorey and destroying all available fauna habitat that they
invade. Quick eradication is necessary if infestations occur.
Weedy grasses are persistent through-out the woodlands and some inundated areas
including the banks of the wetlands. Over time such weeds can be controlled and replaced
with indigenous grasses.
Fauna survey of Balnarring Primary School, Balnarring, April, 2009 to May, 2010.
62
Weeding works have been conducted in the past and are continuing and further
management is discussed in section 6 of this report.
5.7.3 Nesting boxes and terrestrial logs
Due to the lack of old-growth tree hollows and terrestrial logs with hollows through-out the
property a nest box construction and installation program has commenced. Nesting boxes
for arboreal mammals have been installed in the woodlands and boxes for water birds have
been constructed around the wetlands. Dense plantings of sedges such-as Red-fruit Sawsedge or Lepidosperma sps to hide the nesting boxes from predators and allowing privacy
for the occupants. As more nesting boxes are installed a greater number of fauna will be
attracted to the area.
Nesting boxes need to be monitored to discover which species are utilizing them and to
eradicate any feral species that might be attempting to take over them.
5.7.4 Global Warming
Future rising sea levels brought about by global warming could see coastal areas become
inundated destroying many fauna communities. Higher temperatures will also see largescale fires and some species will disappear from adverse weather conditions like what
happened to the possums in the 08/09 summer. Wetlands and creeks will stay dry for
longer periods and high predation and displacement by feral species will add to a high scale
extinction rate of fauna within the region and state.
5.7.5 Lack of Bio-links within the Region
As already discussed within this report the property is part of the all important coastal to
foothill bio-link including Merricks Creek, with several breaks in vegetation along its
journey. Bio-links have only recently been accepted as essential dispersal routes between
large treks of bushland which allows species to move to and fro. Without such links several
species of fauna can become extinct in a short period of time and catastrophic events can
completely wipe out ecosystems without recruitment of species.
Planned bio-links need to be adopted through-out the local areas and region in order to
ensure our faunal species existence into the future.
Fauna survey of Balnarring Primary School, Balnarring, April, 2009 to May, 2010.
63
6.0
RECOMMENDATIONS
The following management recommendations are set out to help the property managers to
manage the fauna and habitat more appropriately in accordance with flora and fauna
requirements.
-Establish bio-links between the property and the coast including Merricks Creek.
-Look into placing a covenant on the land through „Trust for Nature‟.
-Continue to manage weeds and follow these simple rules:
-Leave if Eastern Yellow Robins or other birds are nesting.
-Continue to remove weeds by carrying out the same methods already
implemented.
-Only remove woody weeds or conduct control burns during the non-bird
breeding season.
-Allow natural regeneration to occur.
=If ringtail possum dreys occur in weeds then ring-bark with-out poisoning
and follow-up after a year.
-Immediately implement an integrated ongoing fox and feral animal control
program within the property, surrounding property owners, Balnarring Foreshore
and MPS. Consult the author regarding this issue.
_Continue with nesting box program and monitor. Place dense sedges and prickly
wattles around water bird nesting boxes.
-Retain and place out ground logs with hollows through-out different habitats.
-Look into ways to prevent catastrophic disasters.
-Continue to conduct fauna surveys every 5 years to monitor fauna populations and
diversity.
Fauna survey of Balnarring Primary School, Balnarring, April, 2009 to May, 2010.
64
7.0
REFERENCES
Allen, G. R., Midgley, S. H. & Allen, M.
(2002). Field Guide to the Freshwater
Fishes of Australia. Published by the
Western Australian Museum, Francis Street
Perth, 6000.
Cogger,
M.
(2002).
Menkhorst,
W.
(1996).
Mammals
of
Victoria. Oxford University Press. Victoria,
H.G.
(2000).
Reptiles
and
Amphibians of Australia (Sixth Edition).
New Holland Publishers Pty Ltd, Sydney,
N.S.W.
1996.
NRE 2000a. Threatened Vertebrate Fauna
in Victoria-2007. Department of Natural
Resources and Environment, Victoria.
Hawkins, H. J., & Smith, F. J. (1997).
Identification Guide No. 8 Colour guide to
Invertebrates of Australian Inland waters.
Co-operative
Research
Centre
for
Freshwater Ecology, Albury New South
Wales.
Port Phillip and Westernport Catchment
and Land Protection Board. Draft Port
Phillip and Westernport Native vegetation
Plan. August, 2000.
Simpson, K. And Day, N. (1999). Field
Hero. J., Littlejohn, M., & Marantelli, M.
(1991). Frogwatch Field Guide to Victorian
Frogs.
Fauna Survey and
Management Prescriptions for Chinaman‟s
Creek and Drum Drum Alloc Creek.
Legg,
Dept.
Of
Conservation
and
Environment, Melbourne.
Jenkins, R. And Bartell, R. (1980). A Field
Guide to Reptiles of the Australian High
Country. Inkata Press Pty Ltd, Melbourne.
Guide to the Birds of Australia… (Sixth
Edition). Penguin Books Australia.
Strahan, R. (1998). The Mammals of
Australia (Revised Edition). New Holland
Publishers Pty Ltd, Sydney.
Yugovic,
J.
Oct.
Peninsula
Ecological
2002.
Mornington
Vegetation
Class
Profiles. Biosis Research.
Fauna survey of Balnarring Primary School, Balnarring, April, 2009 to May, 2010.
65
APPENDIX 1: Methods for Defining Biological Significance
This section outlines the assessment methods or criteria used to determine the significance of
fauna species, fauna habitats and sites. Criteria are consistent with government policies,
legislation and publications.
Fauna
The level of significance of fauna species are determined according to the definitions below:
International
Migratory species protected under international treaties (JAMBA, CAMBA and
Significance
Bonn) or listed on the IUCN Red Data List 2006 as threatened
National Significance
State Significance
Regional Significance
Local Significance
Species listed under the Environment Protection and Biodiversity Conservation Act
1999 as extinct, extinct in the wild, critically endangered, endangered or
vulnerable.
Species listed as Threatened under Schedule 2 of Victoria’s Flora and Fauna
Guarantee Act 1988
Species listed as extinct, critically endangered, endangered, vulnerable in Victoria
Advisory List of Threatened Vertebrate Fauna in Victoria – 2007 (DSE 2007)
Species not listed in the above categories that have a limited range in a bioregion
(Gippsland Plain Bioregion)
Species considered rare, threatened or uncommon within the local area (5km
radius from the study area) by the authors with consideration given to previous
studies. Many native species are considered to be locally significant within urban
areas due to typically high levels of habitat alteration.
Plant Communities
The level of significance of Ecological Vegetation Classes are determined according to the definitions
below:
National Significance
Communities listed as critically endangered, endangered or vulnerable under the
Environment Protection and Biodiversity Conservation Act 1999.
Communities listed as Threatened under Schedule 2 of Victoria’s Flora and
Fauna Guarantee Act 1988 that are endemic to Victoria.
Communities listed as Threatened under Schedule 2 of Victoria’s Flora and
State Significance
Fauna Guarantee Act 1988 that are found in other states.
Communities or Ecological Vegetation Classes (EVC’s) listed as endangered,
vulnerable or rare throughout all Victorian Bioregions according to DSE 2003a.
EVC’s with a conservation significance of Very High or High. This must be
consistent with the methodology in Appendix 3 of Victoria’s Native Vegetation
Management Framework DNRE (2002) to defining conservation significance.
Regional Significance EVC’s with a conservation significance of Medium. This must be consistent with
the methodology in Appendix 3 of Victoria’s Native Vegetation Management
Framework (DNRE 2002) to defining conservation significance.
Communities considered depleted, naturally restricted across Victoria and within
the subject bioregion.
Local Significance
EVC’s with a conservation significance of Low. This must be consistent with the
methodology in Appendix 3 of Victoria’s Native Vegetation Management
Framework DNRE (2002) to defining conservation significance.
EVC’s or communities considered rare, threatened or uncommon within the local
area (5km radius from the study area) by the authors with consideration given to
previous studies. Most native vegetation is considered to be locally significant
within urban areas due to typically high levels of clearance and modification.
Fauna survey of Balnarring Primary School, Balnarring, April, 2009 to May, 2010.
66
Fauna Habitats
The level of significance of fauna habitats and/or zoological significance are determined according to the
definitions below:
National Significance
Regularly supports a population of a fauna species listed as endangered in DSE
2003b.
Regularly supports a population of a fauna species listed under the Environment
Protection and Biodiversity Conservation Act 1999 as extinct, extinct in the wild,
critically endangered, endangered or vulnerable. This also includes species
listed as migratory under the EPBC Act.
≥1% of national breeding or national population of species
State Significance
Regularly supports a population of taxon listed as Threatened under Schedule 2
of Victoria’s Flora and Fauna Guarantee Act 1988.
Regularly supports a population of taxon listed as extinct, critically endangered,
endangered, vulnerable in Victoria Advisory List of Threatened Vertebrate Fauna
in Victoria – 2003 (DSE 2003b).
≥1% of state breeding or state population of species
Represents an intact primary habitat link to two connecting sites of State or
higher zoological significance
Regional Significance Regularly supports a population of taxon classified as significant within a
bioregion
≥5% of bioregional breeding or bioregional population of species
Regularly supports a disjunct, unusual or declining population within a bioregion.
Represents an intact habitat link to two connecting sites of regional or higher
zoological significance or partial link two connecting sites of state or higher
zoological significance
Local Significance
Regularly supports a population of taxon declining locally, though apparently still
secure elsewhere
≥25% of local breeding or local population of species (within 5km radius)
Represents an partial habitat link to two connecting sites of regional or higher
zoological significance
These criteria are a detailed, standardised method for determining sites of biological significance. For
further detail on the criteria used, refer to the document DSE (2004b) – http://www.dse.vic.gov.au follow
links to DSE Home>Conservation and Environment>Standard Criteria for Sites of Biological Significance
in Victoria.
The above criteria is not necessary to apply in all cases as there are a number of comprehensive reports
undertaken in Victoria which have studied the sites of biological significance of a given area, including
DSE’s register of Biosite database. The standard criteria will be applied to a site at the discretion of the
author where there have been no extensive studies carried out or where a site’s significance is thought to
be under or overstated.
The geographical scale to determine sites of significance are as follows:
Local
Regional
State
National
within 5km of the chosen study area
bioregion (for example, Gippsland Plains Bioregion)
Victoria
Australia
High local significance can also be used to describe those sites which have intermediate values between
local and regional significance.
Fauna survey of Balnarring Primary School, Balnarring, April, 2009 to May, 2010.
67
APPENDIX 2:
Fauna Species Detected During This Survey
Fauna taxa detected throughout study site during the survey by Malcolm Legg of Mal’s Environmental and Ecological
Services.
Codes for status within Balnarring Primary School and Victoria:
*
introduced species
VU
Vulnerable in Victoria (DSE 2007)
EN
Endangered in Victoria (DSE 2007) or Australia (EPBC Act)
NT
Near threatened in Victoria (DSE 2007)
L
listed as threatened under FFG Act 1988
I
Invalid or ineligible under FFG Act 1988
KEY-Significance/status of species:
N
National
S
State
R
Regional
HL
High Local
L
Local
*
Introduced
Type of record:
h
Heard
s
Seen
I
Incidental (scats, feathers etc.)
t
Trapped/handheld
B
Breeding residential bird
r
recorded on Anabat 2 Bat Detector
TABLE 4:
DECAPOD CRUSTACEANS RECORDED THROUGH OUT THE STUDY SITE,
MAY, 2010.
Scientific Name
Common Name
Conservation
status
within the property.
Type of
record
Paratya australiensis
Freshwater Shrimp
Lt
Engaeus sps
Burrowing Crayfish
Common at times in wetlands
and drainage line.
Common
TABLE 5:
Ls
FISH RECORDED WITHIN THE STUDY SITE, MAY, 2010.
Scientific Name
Common Name
Conservation status Type
within the property. record
Aquila australis
Galaxias maculatus
*Gambusia affinis
Short-finned Eel
Common Galaxias
*Mosquitofish
Uncommon to rare
Uncommon to rare
Common
TABLE 6:
off
Lts
Lts
Ls
AMPHIBIANS RECORDED WITHIN THE STUDY SITE, MAY, 2010.
Scientific Name
Common Name
Conservation status
within the property.
Type of
record
Crinia signifera
Geocrinia haswelli
Limnodynastes dumerilli
Liknodynastes tasmaniensis
Pseudophryne semimarmorata
Litoria ewingii
Litoria verreauxii
Common Froglet
Haswells Froglet
Southern Bullfrog
Spotted Marsh Frog
Southern Toadlet
Southern Brown Tree Frog
Verreaux’s Tree Frog
Common
Uncommon to rare
Uncommon
Common
Uncommon
Common
Common
Lhs
Rh
Lhs
Lhs
Sh
Lhs
Lhs
Fauna survey of Balnarring Primary School, Balnarring, April, 2009 to May, 2010.
68
TABLE 7:
REPTILES RECORDED WITHIN THE STUDY SITE, MAY, 2010.
Scientific Name
TORTOISES
Chelenodia longicollis
LIZARDS
Eulamprus typanum
Lampropholis delicata
Lampropholis guichenoti
Pseudemoia entracasteaux
Saproscincus mustelinus
Tiliqua nigrolutea
SNAKES
Australeps superbus
Drysdalia coronoides
TABLE 8:
Common Name
Conservation
status within
the property.
Type of
record
Common Long-necked Tortoise
Uncommon
Ls
Southern Water Skink
Delicate Skink
Garden Skink
Southern Grass Skink
Weasel Skink
Blotched Blue-tongue Lizard
Rare
Uncommon
Common
Uncommon
Uncommon
Common
Rts
Rts
Lst
Rts
Lts
Rst
Rare
Rare
HLs
Rts
Lowland Copperhead
White-lipped Snake
WETLAND BIRDS RECORDED WITHIN THE STUDY SITE, MAY, 2010.
Scientific Name
Common Name
Conservation
status within the
property.
Tachybaptus novaehollandiae
Phalacrocorax varius
Phalacrocorax melanoleucos
Cygnus atratus
Tadorna tadornoides
Anas superciliosa
Anas castanea
Anas rhynchotis
Chenonetta jubatat
Stictonetta naevosa
Allus pectoralis
Gallinula tenebrosa
Porphyrio porphyrio
Fulica atra
Egretta novaehollandiae
Ardea alba
Threskiornis molucca
Threskiornis spinicollis
Platalea regia
Platalea flavipes
Gallinago hardwickii
Vanellus miles
Erythrogonys cinctus
Elseyornis melanops
Larus novaehollandiae
Sterna caspia
Australasian Grebe
Pied Cormorant
Little Pied Cormorant
Black Swan
Australasian Shelduck
Pacific Black Duck
Chestnut Teal
Australasian Shoveller
Australian Wood Duck
Freckled Duck
Lewins Rail
Dusky Moorhen
Purple Swamphen
Eurasian Coot
White-faced Heron
Great Egret
Australian White Ibis
Straw-necked Ibis
Royal Spoonbill
Yellow-billed Spoonbill
Lathams Snipe
Masked Lapwing
Red-kneed Dotterel
Black-fronted Dotterel
Silver Gull
Caspian Tern
Uncommon
Rare
Rare
Uncommon
Common at times
Common
Uncommon
Rare
Common
Rare
Rare
Uncommon
Uncommon
Common
Uncommon
Rare
Common
Common
Uncommon
Uncommon
Rare
Uncommon
Rare
Rare
Uncommon
Rare
Fauna survey of Balnarring Primary School, Balnarring, April, 2009 to May, 2010.
Type of
record
Lsh
Ssh
Lsh
Lsh
Rsh
Lsh
Lsh
Ssh
Lsh
Ssh
Ssh
Lsh
Lsh
Lsh
Lsh
Ssh
Lsh
Lsh
Ssh
Lsh
Ssh
Lsh
Rsh
Rsh
Lsh
Ssh
69
TABLE 9:
WOODLAND BIRDS RECORDED WITHIN THE STUDY SITE, MAY, 2010.
Scientific Name
Common Name
Conservation
status
within
the property.
Type
of
record
Elanus axillaris
Haliastur sphenurus
Aquila audax
Accipiter fasciatus
Circus approximans
Falco cenchroides
*Streptopelia chinensis
Phaps chalcoptera
Calyptorhynchus funereus
Eolophus roseicapillus
Cacatua tenuirostris
Cacatua galerita
Trichoglossus haematodus
Glossopsitta concinna
Platycercus eximius
Cacomantis flabelliformis flabelliformis
Chalcites basalis
Ninox novaehollandiae
Podargus strigoides
Hirundapus caudactus race caudactus
Dacelo novaehollandiae
Malurus cyaneus
Pardalotus punctatus
Pardalotus striatus
Sericornis frontalis
Acanthiza pusilla
Anthochaera carunculata
Anthochaera chrysoptera
Manorina melanocephala
Lichenostomus chrysops
Lichenostomus leucotis
Lichenostomus penicillatus
Melithreptus brevirostris
Phylidonyris novaehollandiae
Epthianura albifrons
Petroica phoenica
Eopsaltria australis
Colluricincla harmonica
Pachycephala pectoralis
Pachycephala rufiventris
Rhipidura fuliginosa
Rhipidura leucophrys
Coracina novaehollandiae
Grallina cyanoleura
Cracticus torquatus
Gymnorhina tibicen
Corvus coronoides
Corvus mellori
Strenua versicolor
Hirundo neoxena
Hirundo ariel
Acrocephalus stentoreus
*Carduelis carduelis
Black-shouldered Kite
Whistling Kite
Wedge-tailed Eagle
Brown Goshawk
Swamp Harrier
Nankeen Kestrel
Spotted Turtle-dove
Common Bronzewing
Yellow-tailed Black-Cockatoo
Galah
Long-billed Corella
Sulphur-crested Cockatoo
Rainbow Lorikeet
Musk Lorikeet
Eastern Rosella
Fantail Cuckoo
Horsfield’s Bronze-cuckoo
Southern Boobook
Tawny Frogmouth
White-throated Needletail
Laughing Kookaburra
Superb Fairy-wren
Spotted Pardalote
Striated Pardalote
White-browed Scrubwren
Brown Thornbill
Red Wattlebird
Little Wattlebird
Noisy Miner
Yellow-faced Honeyeater
White-eared Honeyeater
White-plumed Honeyeater
Brown-headed Honeyeater
New Holland Honeyeater
White-fronted Chat
Flame Robin
Eastern Yellow Robin
Grey Shrike Thrush
Golden Whistler
Rufous Whistler
Grey Fantail
Willy Wagtail
Black-faced Cuckoo-shrike
Magpie-lark
Grey Butcherbird
Australian Magpie
Australian Raven
Little Raven
Grey Currawong
Welcome Swallow
Fairy Martin
Clamorous Reed Warbler
European Goldfinch
Rare
Rare
Rare
Rare
Uncommon
Rare
Common
Uncommon
Uncommon
Uncommon
Rare
Common
Uncommon
Common at times
Common
Rare
Uncommon
Rare
Uncommon
Common at times
Rare
Common
Common
Uncommon
Common
Common
Common
Rare
Common
Uncommon
Rare
Uncommon
Rare
Uncommon
Uncommon
Uncommon
Rare
Uncommon
Uncommon
Rare
Common at times
Uncommon
Uncommon
Uncommon
Uncommon
Uncommon
Rare
Common
Rare
Common
Uncommon
Rare
Uncommon
Lhs
Lhs
HLhs
Lhs
HLs
Lhs
hs
HLhs
Rhs
Lhs
Lhs
Lhs
Lhs
HLhs
Lhs
Lhs
Lhs
Rh
Lhs
HLs
Lhs
Lhs
Lhs
Lhs
Lhs
Lhs
Lhs
Lhs
Lhs
Lhs
HLhs
Lhs
Rhs
Lhs
HLhs
Rhs
Rhs
Lhs
Lhs
Lhs
Lhs
Lhs
Lhs
Lhs
Lhs
Lhs
Lhs
Lhs
Rhs
Lhs
Lhs
Rhs
hs
Fauna survey of Balnarring Primary School, Balnarring, April, 2009 to May, 2010.
70
Scientific Name
Common Name
Conservation
status
within
the property.
Type
of
record
Dicaeum hirundinaceum
Zosterops lateralis
*Turdus merula
*Sturnus vulgaris
*Acridotheres tristis
Mistletoebird
Silvereye
Common Blackbird
Common Starling
Common Myna
Uncommon
Common
Rhs
Lhs
Uncommon
hs
*Denotes introduced species
TABLE 10:
MAMMALS RECORDED WITHIN THE STUDY SITE, MAY, 2010.
Scientific Name
MONOTREMES
Tachyglossus aculeatus
MARSUPIALS
Phascolarctos cinereus
Trichosurus vulpecula
Pseudocheirus peregrinus
Wallabia bicolor
PLACENTAL MAMMALS
MICROBATS
Tadarida australis
Chalinolobus gouldii
Vespadelus darlingtoni
Vespadelus vulturnus
RODENTS
Rattus lutreolus ssp. Lutreolus
INTRODUCED MAMMALS
*Mus musculus
*Rattus rattus
*Vulpes vulpes
*Felis catus
Common Name
Conservation status
within the property.
Type of
record
Short-beaked Echidna
Rare
RsI
Koala
Common Brushtail Possum
Common Ringtail Possum
Black Wallaby
Uncommon to rare
Uncommon to rare
Was common now rare.
Rare
Rhs
Lhs
White-striped Freetail Bat
Gould’s Wattled Bat
Large Forest Bat
Little Forest Bat
Uncommon
Common
Uncommon
Common
Rr
Rr
Rr
Rr
Swamp Rat
Common to Uncommon
RtI
House Mouse
Black Rat
Red Fox
Feral Cat
Common
Common
Common
Uncommon
s
t
sI
t
Rhs
*Denotes introduced species
Fauna survey of Balnarring Primary School, Balnarring, April, 2009 to May, 2010.
71
APPENDIX 3:
Fauna Sampling Results (including scat analysis, Elliot traps,
hair tubing, scout-guard cameras, spotlighting, bat detection and observations.
TABLE 11: Bird species and population numbers detected for each month at Balnarring Primary
School. ‘B’ demotes when species bred.
Apr
09
SPECIES
Pied Cormorant
Little-pied Cormorant
Australasian Grebe
Black Swan
Australasian Shelduck
Pacific Black Duck
Chestnut Teal
Australasian Shoveller
Australian Wood Duck
Freckled Duck
Lewins Rail
Dusky Moorhen
Purple Swamphen
Eurasian Coot
White-faced Heron
Great Egret
Australian White Ibis
Straw-necked Ibis
Royal Spoonbill
Yellow-billed Spoonbill
Lathams Snipe
Masked Lapwing
Red-kneed Dotterel
Black-fronted Dotterel
Silver Gull
Caspian Tern
Black-shouldered Kite
Whistling Kite
Wedge-tailed Eagle
Swamp Harrier
Brown Goshawk
Nankeen Kestrel
*Spotted Turtle-Dove
Common Bronzewing
Yellow-tailed Black Cockatoo
Galah
Long-billed Corella
Sulphur-crested Cockatoo
Rainbow Lorikeet
Musk Lorikeet
Eastern Rosella
Fantail Cukoo
Horsfields Bronze Cuckoo
Southern Boobook
Tawny Frogmouth
White-throated Needletail
Laughing Kookaburra
Superb Fairy-wren
Spotted Pardalote
Striated Pardalote
White-browed Scrub-wren
Brown Thornbill
Red Wattlebird
May
Jun
Jul
1
Aug
Sep
Oct
Nov
1
1
1
1
Dec
Jan
10
1
2
Feb
Mar
1
1
2
2
6
3
4
4
4B
2B
2B
24
16
10
12
2
2
2
2
3
8
24
15
7
2
5
8
10
14
6
8
22
26
12
7
5
5
4
2
3
4
15
20
61
65
45
3
4
2a4c
2a3c
2a2c
2
1
2B
2B
2B
2B
2B
6
6
4
5
7B
9B
11B
12B
8
8
66
60+
100+
80+
70+
50+
46
30+
25+
30+
40+
2
2
2
2
2
2
40+
40+
40+
4
2
2
2
8
6
10+
2
1
32
34
4
5
6
8
2
20+
20+
20+
20+
2
2
4
4
4
4
3
3
2
4
10
11
2
3
3
4
4
4
6
6
4
4
6
8
4
4
2
5
7
2
6
2
2
2
2
2
1
2
1
1
1
1
1
1
2
2
2
2
4B
7B
12B
12B
10
2
2
2
2
2
2
2
2
2
2B
20+
20+
2
2
2
2
1
1
1
11
13
2B
2B
20+
20+
3
6
8
6
10
7
8
9
7
6
4
6
6
4
2
4
8
4
8
10+
2
2
5
5
6
8
8
5
6
6
6
2
2
8
6
2
1
4
4
2
1
1
2
20+
40
45
50
55B
10+
10+
10+
10+
10+
60B
70B
75B
4
6
4
55B
2
2
20+
20+
3
4
75B
75
70
10+
10+
10+
60B
60B
60+
60+
75B
2
10+
15
45
50
50B
50B
55B
20+
35
35
35
35B
50B
50B
5B
55B
60B
60+
60+
10+
5
8
10
10B
10B
12B
12B
10B
8
8
6
Fauna survey of Balnarring Primary School, Balnarring, April, 2009 to May, 2010.
72
SPECIES
Little Wattlebird
Noisy Miner
Yellow-faced Honeyeater
White-eared Honeyeater
White-plumed Honeyeater
Brown-headed Honeyeater
New Holland Honeyeater
White-fronted Chat
Flame Robin
Eastern Yellow Robin
Grey Shrike-thrush
Golden Whistler
Rufous Whistler
Grey Fantail
Willy Wagtail
Black-faced Cuckoo-shrike
Mudlark
Grey Butcherbird
Australian Magpie
Grey Currawong
Australian Raven
Little Raven
Welcome Swallow
Fairy Martin
Clamorous Reed-Warbler
*European Goldfinch
Mistletoebird
Silvereye
*Common Blackbird
*Common Myna
*Common Starling
Apr
09
May
Jun
2
4
6
8B
7B
12
15
12
10B
10B
10B
10+
5+
2
2
2
Jul
Aug
Sep
Oct
Nov
Dec
Jan
10
Feb
7B
8B
10B
10B
Mar
12B
15
12
4
13B
15B
12
10+
10+
10+
2
6B
6B
6B
4
10B
10B
10B
10+
10+
4
4
8
8
4
4
4
8B
6
8B
4
6
3
2
2
2
2
2
2B
2B
2B
4B
4B
4B
4
4
2
4
4
4
4
4B
4B
6B
4B
4B
4
4
2B
2B
2B
2B
2B
4
4
2B
4B
4B
2B
2B
2
10
6
4
4
4
6B
8B
8B
6B
4B
4
4
2
2
2
2
2
2B
4B
4B
4B
4B
4
4
2
4
4
4
6
8
6
6
6
6B
6B
8B
8B
6B
6
6
2
2
2
2
2B
2B
2B
2B
2B
2B
2
3
4
10
6
6
4B
4B
4B
4B
4B
4B
4
4
2
3
2
2
4
4
2
4
6
5
10
14
12
10
5
5
5
6
12
13
10
14
16
12
14
4B
4B
6B
8B
2
8
6
4
2
2
2
20
30
40+
20+
20+
8
2
2
5
2
2
2
2
2B
4B
4B
6B
6B
6B
6
6
6
5
7
3
10+
20+
20+
20+
10
12
8
4
30+
60+
40+
40+
TABLE 12: Fish sampled in bait traps throughout the study site, May, 2010.
Species
Date
Short-finned Eel
12-10-09
15-10-09
15-10-09
13-10-09
14-10-09
Common Galaxias
*Mosquitofish
Number
sampled
1
2
5
20+
30+
Area sampled
Lake.
Wetlands.
Frankston-Flinders Road.
Wetlands
Lake.
TABLE 13: Fauna sampled in Elliot traps throughout the study site, May, 2010.
Species
Date
Reptiles
Blotched Blue-tongue
Mammals
Swamp Rat
*Black Rat
*House Mouse
Number
sampled
Area sampled
20-09-09
1
Transect 2, trap 9.
19-09-09
20-09-09
21-09-09
19-09-09
20-09-09
21-09-09
19-09-09
20-09-09
21-09-09
2
1
3
1
2
1
3
4
2
Transect 1, traps 6 & 10.
Transect 1, traps 6 & 10.
Transect 2, traps 4, 6 & 8.
Transect 1, trap 2.
Transect 2, traps 2 & 7.
Transect 1, trap 9.
Transect 1, traps 1, 3 & 4.
Transect 2, traps 1, 3, 5 & 10.
Transect 2, traps 1 & 7.
Fauna survey of Balnarring Primary School, Balnarring, April, 2009 to May, 2010.
73
TABLE 14: Fauna hairs sampled in hair tubes through-out the property, May, 2010.
Species
Date
Common Brushtail Possum
Black Wallaby
Swamp Rat
10/10/09
10/10/09
10/10/09
10/10/09
10/10/09
10/10/09
10/10/09
10/10/09
10/10/09
10/10/09
*Black Rat
*House Mouse
*Red Fox
Number of samples
per transect
1
1
2
2
3
1
3
1
2
1
Area sampled
Transect 1, hair tube 4.
Transect 2, hair tube 5.
Transect 1, hair tube 2 & 7.
Transect 2, hair tubes 3 & 6.
Transect 1, hair tubes 3, 5 & 8.
Transect 2, hair tube 10.
Transect 1, hair tubes 1, 6 & 9.
Transect 2, hair tube 4.
Transect 1, hair tube 9 & 10.
Transect 2, hair tube 7.
TABLE 15: Mammal hairs identified in fox and cat scats collected through-out the study
site, July, 2009.
Predator
Species scat
Date
collected
Non mammal remains
Mammal hairs analysed within
scat
*Fox 1
*Fox 2
*Fox 3
*Fox 4
*Fox 5
*Fox 6
*Fox 7
*Fox 8
*Fox 9
*Fox 10
*Fox 11
*Fox 12
*Fox 13
*Fox 14
*Fox 15
*Cat 1
*Cat 2
*Cat 3
17/10/09
17/10/09
17/10/09
17/10/09
17/10/09
17/10/09
17/10/09
17/10/09
17/10/09
17/10/09
17/10/09
17/10/09
17/10/09
17/10/09
17/10/09
17/10/09
17/10/09
17/10/09
Feathers & Insect
Nil
Insects
Feathers
Feathers
Insects
Insects
Nil
Feathers
Feathers
Insects
Insects
Insects
Nil
Feathers
Feathers
Feathers
Feathers
Swamp Rat.
*Black Rat.
*House Mouse.
Nil.
Nil.
Common Brushtail Possum.
Common Ringtail Possum.
Koala.
Short-beaked Echidna.
*Black Rat.
*House Mouse.
Common Ringtail Possum.
*House Mouse.
Common Ringtail Possum.
Nil.
Common Ringtail Possum.
Nil.
Nil.
TABLE 16: Fauna recorded on infra scout-guard cameras through-out the property, May,
2010.
Species
Camera 1
Superb Fairy-wren
White-browed Scrub-wren
Grey Shrike Thrush
*Fox
Swamp Rat
*House Mouse
*Black Rat
Nothing
Camera 2
Common Brushtail Possum
Black Wallaby
Feb 2010
Mar
Apr
Totals
2
1
3
2
4
13
36
45
3
6
2
1
3
3
23
31
6
11
3
6
10
8
57
89
102
2
4
4
4
2
2
5
1
21
22
51
Fauna survey of Balnarring Primary School, Balnarring, April, 2009 to May, 2010.
74
Species
Swamp Rat
*Black Rat
*House Mouse
Nothing
Camera 3
Common Brushtail Possum
Common Ringtail Possum
Nothing
Total
Feb 2010
Mar
Apr
Total
4
11
25
11
6
33
15
21
11
7
4
38
69
33
3
4
45
215
5
1
31
196
1
2
47
166
9
7
123
577
TABLE 17: Fauna observed during spotlighting throughout the property May, 2010.
Species
Date
Amphibians
Common Froglet
Haswells Froglet
Southern Bullfrog
Spotted Marsh Frog
Southern Toadlet
Southern Brown Tree Frog
Verreaux’s Tree Frog
Birds
Masked Lapwing
Southern Boobook
Tawny Frogmouth
Mammals
Common Brushtail Possum
Common Ringtail Possum
Koala
Bat sps
*Fox
*Feral Cat
Number
observed
Area Observed
28/10/09
14/02/10
06/05/10
06/05/10
28/10/09
06/05/10
28/10/09
14/02/10
06/05/10
06/05/10
28/10/09
14/02/10
06/05/10
28/10/09
14/02/10
06/05/10
50+
50+
200+
10+
10+
5+
30+
20+
50+
20+
50+
20+
50+
20+
20+
30+
Wetlands.
As above.
As above.
Inundated grasslands.
Wetlands.
As above.
As above.
As above.
As above.
Inundated grasslands.
As above.
As above.
As above.
As above.
As above.
As above.
28/10/09
14/02/10
06/05/10
28/10/09
14/02/10
14/02/10
6
4
4
2
2
2
Flying over property.
As above.
As above.
Woodlands
As above.
Woodlands.
14/02/10
28/10/09
14/02/10
14/02/10
28/10/09
14/02/10
06/05/10
28/10/09
14/02/10
06/05/10
14/02/10
2
2
4
3
1
3
4
4
2
2
3
1
As above.
As above.
As above.
As above.
Woodlands near entrance.
Woodlands.
As above.
As above.
Through-out.
As above.
As above.
Back of wetland.
Fauna survey of Balnarring Primary School, Balnarring, April, 2009 to May, 2010.
75
TABLE 18: Micro bats recorded on the Anabat II Bat Detector through-out the study
site, July, 2009.
Species
Date
White-striped Freetail Bat
14/02/10
06/05/10
28/10/09
14/02/10
06/05/10
28/10/09
14/02/10
28/10/09
14/02/10
06/05/10
Gould’s Wattled Bat
Large Forest Bat
Little Forest Bat
Number of calls
recorded
11
16
4
12
15
4
5
21
17
23
Area Observed
Above wetlands and woodlands.
As above.
As above.
As above.
As above.
As above.
As above.
As above.
As above.
As above.
Fauna survey of Balnarring Primary School, Balnarring, April, 2009 to May, 2010.
76
Appendix 4: Fauna species on the Victorian Fauna Database found within a 1 Km radius of Balnarring Primary School.
FFG
EPBC
VROTS
Origin
v
n
*
f
e
Freq
NumSite
Australasian Grebe
Tachybaptus novaehollandiae
Podicipedidae
27.27%
6
Australasian Shoveler
Anas rhynchotis
Anatidae
22.72%
5
Australian Magpie
Gymnorhina tibicen
Artamidae
9.09%
2
Australian Shelduck
Tadorna tadornoides
Anatidae
27.27%
6
Australian White Ibis
Threskiornis molucca
Threskiornithidae
13.63%
3
Australian Wood Duck
Chenonetta jubata
Anatidae
22.72%
5
Black Swan
Cygnus atratus
Anatidae
27.27%
6
Black-fronted Dotterel
Elseyornis melanops
Charadriidae
18.18%
4
Broad-finned Galaxias
Galaxias brevipinnis
Galaxiidae
4.54%
1
Cape Barren Goose
Cereopsis novaehollandiae
Anatidae
22.72%
5
Chestnut Teal
Anas castanea
Anatidae
31.81%
7
Common Blackbird
Turdus merula
Muscicapidae
4.54%
1
Common Bronzewing
Phaps chalcoptera
Columbidae
4.54%
1
Galaxias maculatus
Galaxiidae
18.18%
4
Common Myna
Acridotheres tristis
Sturnidae
22.72%
5
*
Common Starling
Sturnus vulgaris
Sturnidae
13.63%
3
Dusky Moorhen
Gallinula tenebrosa
Rallidae
27.27%
6
Eastern Gambusia
Gambusia holbrooki
Poecilidae
18.18%
4
Eastern Great Egret
Ardea modesta
Ardeidae
4.54%
1
Eastern Rosella
Platycercus eximius
Psittacidae
4.54%
1
Eurasian Coot
Fulica atra
Rallidae
22.72%
5
European Skylark
Alauda arvensis
Alaudidae
4.54%
1
Freckled Duck
Stictonetta naevosa
Anatidae
4.54%
1
Great Cormorant
Phalacrocorax carbo
Phalacrocoracidae
9.09%
2
Grey Fantail
Rhipidura albiscarpa
Dicruridae
4.54%
1
Grey Teal
Anas gracilis
Anatidae
13.63%
3
Grey-crowned Babbler
Pomatostomus temporalis
Pomatostomidae
18.18%
4
v
e
Family Name
Common Galaxias
*
f
Scientific Name
*
*
f
Common Name
Fauna survey of Balnarring Primary School, Balnarring, April, 2009 to May, 2010.
77
FFG
EPBC
VROTS
Origin
v
*
f
f
v
n
v
n
v
*
Common Name
Scientific Name
Family Name
Hardhead
Aythya australis
Anatidae
Freq
13.63%
NumSite
3
Hoary-headed Grebe
Poliocephalus poliocephalus
Podicipedidae
13.63%
3
House Sparrow
Passer domesticus
Passeridae
4.54%
1
Lewin's Rail
Lewinia pectoralis
Rallidae
4.54%
1
Little Pied Cormorant
Microcarbo melanoleucos
Phalacrocoracidae
9.09%
2
Little Raven
Corvus mellori
Corvidae
4.54%
1
Little Wattlebird
Anthochaera chrysoptera
Meliphagidae
9.09%
2
Magpie Goose
Anseranas semipalmata
Anseranatidae
4.54%
1
Magpie-lark
Grallina cyanoleuca
Dicruridae
9.09%
2
Masked Lapwing
Vanellus miles
Charadriidae
22.72%
5
Musk Duck
Biziura lobata
Anatidae
9.09%
2
New Holland Honeyeater
Phylidonyris novaehollandiae
Meliphagidae
4.54%
1
Pacific Black Duck
Anas superciliosa
Anatidae
31.81%
7
Pied Cormorant
Phalacrocorax varius
Phalacrocoracidae
4.54%
1
Purple Swamphen
Porphyrio porphyrio
Rallidae
27.27%
6
Red Wattlebird
Anthochaera carunculata
Meliphagidae
4.54%
1
Red-kneed Dotterel
Erythrogonys cinctus
Charadriidae
4.54%
1
Royal Spoonbill
Platalea regia
Threskiornithidae
9.09%
2
Short-finned Eel
Anguilla australis
Anguillidae
22.72%
5
Silver Gull
Chroicocephalus novaehollandiae
Laridae
22.72%
5
Spotted Galaxias
Galaxias truttaceus
Galaxiidae
31.81%
7
Spotted Pardalote
Pardalotus punctatus
Pardalotidae
4.54%
1
Spotted Turtle-Dove
Streptopelia chinensis
Columbidae
Straw-necked Ibis
Threskiornis spinicollis
Threskiornithidae
Striated Pardalote
Pardalotus striatus
Striated Thornbill
Acanthiza lineata
Sugar Glider
9.09%
2
13.63%
3
Pardalotidae
4.54%
1
Pardalotidae
4.54%
1
Petaurus breviceps
Petauridae
4.54%
1
Superb Fairy-wren
Malurus cyaneus
Maluridae
9.09%
2
Swamp Harrier
Circus approximans
Accipitridae
4.54%
1
Fauna survey of Balnarring Primary School, Balnarring, April, 2009 to May, 2010.
78
FFG
EPBC
VROTS
v
Origin
Common Name
Scientific Name
Family Name
Tupong
Pseudaphritis urvillii
Bovichthyidae
9.09%
2
Unidentified small grebe
Unidentified small grebe
Podicipedidae
4.54%
1
Welcome Swallow
Hirundo neoxena
Hirundinidae
13.63%
3
White-eared Honeyeater
Lichenostomus leucotis
Meliphagidae
4.54%
1
White-faced Heron
Egretta novaehollandiae
Ardeidae
13.63%
3
White-plumed Honeyeater
Lichenostomus penicillatus
Meliphagidae
4.54%
1
Willie Wagtail
Rhipidura leucophrys
Dicruridae
4.54%
1
Wood Sandpiper
Tringa glareola
Scolopacidae
4.54%
1
Yellow-billed Spoonbill
Platalea flavipes
Threskiornithidae
9.09%
2
Fauna survey of Balnarring Primary School, Balnarring, April, 2009 to May, 2010.
Freq
NumSite
79
MAP 1
LOCATIONS OF FAUNA SAMPLING SITES
Fish trap 1
Cam. 1
Transect 2
Cam. 2
KEY
Elliot trap, colour-bond tiles
and hair tube transects
Fish trap sampling sites
Scout guard camera sites
Cam. 3
Fish trap 2
Fish trap 3
Transect 1
80
Threatened Fauna survey of Mornington Peninsula National Park, June to August 2008
81