The conservation value of small woodland remnants on the New South Wales South Western Slopes: a case study from Wagga Wagga

11 Pages·1999·3.6 MB·English

by  Michael Murphy

The conservation value of small woodland remnants
on the New South Wales South Western Slopes:
a case study from Wagga Wagga
Michael J. Murphy
NSW National Parks and Wildlife Service, NPWS Northern Zone,
Locked Bag 914, Coffs Harbour, New South Wales 2450
ABSTRACT
A Survey of the bird and non-flying mammal fauna in Pomingalarna Park, a small woodland
remnant near Wagga Wagga, on the New South Wales South Western Slopes, recorded 91
native bird species and five native mammal species. Three introduced bird species alnd eight
introduced mammal species were also recorded. The woodland is an association of Western
Grey Box Eucalyptus microcarpa, Biakely's Red Gum E. biakeiyi and White Cypress Pin0
Callitris glaucophylla. The results highlight the significance of small remnants for the
conservation of biological diversity in the New South Wales South Western Slopes region.
Key words: Birds, Mammals, New South Wales South Western Slopes, Temperate woodland,
Remnant vegetation, Variegated landscape, Conservation.
INTRODUCTION made during a series of visits to the area over
a five year period. The results are presented
Before European settlement, the New South
here to illustrate the significance of small
Wales South Western Slopes region, in inland
remnants for the conservation of biological
southeastern Australia (Thackway and Creswell
diversity and the distinctiveness of the New
1995), supported extensive stands of temper-
South Wales South Western Slopes.
ate box woodland (Gall 1982; Morgan
and Terrey 1992; Prober and Thiele 1993).
Today this area is one of Australia's primary STUDY AREA
agricultural and pastoral regions, and an
Pomingalarna Park (35'07'S, 147"18'E) (Figs
estimated 80% of the region has been cleared
1 and 2) is 225 ha in area and occupies a low
(State of the Environment Advisory Council
wooded ridge of Ordovician shale on the
1996). Scattered elements of the original
western outskirts of the Wagga Wagga urban
vegetation are typically all that remain in
area. The elevation ranges from 200 to 298 m
a predominantly cleared rural landscape
AHD. The Park is a crown reserve and is
(Morgan and Terrey 1992; Prober and Thiele
managed by the Wagga Wagga City Council as
1993; Sivertsen 1993).
a public recreation reserve. The history of the
The landscape of the region today cor- Park dates back to 1881 when an original 427
responds to the habitat variegation model ha were dedicated as a Common.
described by McIntyre and Barrett (1992):
The vegetation has regenerated following
remnant woodland areas of various sizes,
grazing and quarrying activities in the past,
roadside and riparian vegetation, grazing
and provides important habitat features for
lands of native and improved pasture with or
native woodland fauna, including hollow-
without scattered trees, and cropped areas
bearing trees, fallen timber and an under-
all contributing to a varying spectrum of storey with a range of native grass, herb and
suitable habitat for different native species.
shrub species.
Even ouite small native vecretation remnants
within'this habitat matrix can be of conser- Three broad habitat types were identified in
vation value for many native species (Barrett the study area: woodland with an understorey
et al. 1994). The long-term survival of the of grasses and shrubs (about 87 ha) (Fig. 3),
current variegated landscape is under threat open woodland with a grassy understorey
owing to the continuing loss of essential native (about 94 ha) (Fig. 4) and grassland (about 44
vegetation components through clearing ha) (Fig. 5). A stock dam and an abandoned
and degradation of remnant areas and quarry provide small areas of aquatic habitat.
senescence and death of isolated mature trees
Approximately 165 plant species have been
in farmland.
recorded in the Park, including 53 non-
Observations of the birds and non-flying indigenous native or introduced alien species
mammals in a typical small woodland remnant (R. Good, NSW NPWS, pers. comm.). The
near Wagga Wagga, New South Wales, were predominant tree species in the study area
Australian Zoologist 3t(t) 71
Figurc I. Location of the Parningalarna Park study area near Wagga Wagga in the New South Wales South Western
Slopes Biogeographic Region. The 225 ha study area occupies a low ridge bordering the Murrumhidgee river flats.
Broad habitat types within the study area are mapped: W = woodland, OW = open woodland, G = grassland.
72 Australian Zoologist 31(1) June 1999
Figure 2. An aerial view of Pomingalarna Park and surrounding farmland in 1995. Extensive clearing of the original
Box woodland and River Red Gum riverine forest since European settlement of the Wagga Wagga area in 1832 has
resulted in the present variegated landscape, where woodland/forest remnants, roadside and riparian vegetation, grazing
land with scattered mature trees and cropped areas provide a spectrum of suitable habitat for different native species.
Aerial Photography supplied by The Sydney Map Shop, 23-33 Bridge Street, Sydney, New South Wales 2000.
June 1999 Australian Zoologist 31(1) 73
are Western Grey Box Eucabptus microcarpa, less than 25% of site visits, common if
Blakely's Red Gum E. blakelyi and White recorded between 25% and 75% of site
Cypress Pine Callitris glaucophylla. White Box visits, and abundant if recorded on more
E. albens and Yellow Box E. melliodora are than 75% of site visits.
also present. Understorey species include
Kangaroo Grass Themeda australis, Wallaby RESULTS
Grass Danthonia caespitosa, spear grass Stipa Birds
spp., Sticky Everlasting Bracteantha viscosa,
Ninety-one species of native birds (from
burr daisies Calotis spp., Parrot Pea Dillwynia
38 families) and three species of introduced
sericea, Austral Indigo Indigofera australis,
birds (from three families) were recorded
Drooping She-oak Allocasuarina verticillata and
during the study (Table 1). Two species
wattles Acacia spp. Grasses (Poaeceae) and
are considered to be of state conservation
daisies (Asteraceae) in particular are well
significance: the Superb Parrot (vulnerable)
represented in the understorey, each with about
and Gilbert's Whistler (vulnerable) (New South
25 species present (R. Good, pers. comm.).
Wales Threatened Species Conservation Act 1995).
METHODS The open woodland had the greatest
number of species of birds recorded (60 spp.),
Observations of the birds and non-volant
followed by woodland (45 spp.), grassland
mammals occurring in the study area were
(26 spp.) and aquatic habitat (16 spp.). Birds
collated from 13 visits to Wagga Wagga
of the aquatic habitat included terrestrial
between March 1992 and July 1997. The study
species visiting to drink or bathe as well as
area was visited on a total of 39 days and 19
wetland species. Five species were recorded
nights during this period. Survey methods
flying at height over the study area.
consisted of direct observation by day, spot-
lighting, listening for bird calls, mammal Based on the frequency criteria, 14 bird
trapping and identification of indirect signs. species were abundant in the study area,
1. Diurnally active birds and mammals were 17 were common, 43 were uncommon and
20 were rare. Abundant species included
directly observed while walking or slowly
the Galah, Brown Treecreeper, White-plumed
driving through the study area by day.
Binoculars (7 x 50) were used to aid Honeyeater, White-browed Babbler and
Australian Magpie.
observation.
2. Spotlighting for nocturnal birds and Introduced species were only a minor com-
mammals, using a 50 watt spotlight either ponent of the avifauna. The three introduced
from a car or on foot, was done between species were uncommon in the study area,
dusk and 22:OO in sessions averaging one although they were widespread and common
to two hours, and totalled 28 hours. in <he surrounding area.
3. Birds were identified by call during diurnal
Mammals
surveying and spotlighting by night.
Species with unfamiliar calls were tracked Five species of native mammals (from four
down and identified by sight. families) and eight species of introduced
mammals (from five families) were recorded
4. Aluminium Size A Elliott traps baited with
(Table 2). Insectivorous hats were not surveyed
a peanut butter/rolled oats mixture were
but were noted to occur on site, and were
set (60 trap-nights) for small terrestrial
considered likely to have daytime roosts there.
mammals.
5. Birds were indirectly recorded by identifi- The woodland had the greatest number
cation of vacant nests and feedin remains. of species of mammals recorded (IOspp.),
(H
Indirect signs of mammals inclu ed tracks, followed by open woodland (9 spp.) and
scats, diggings and skeletal remains. Fifteen grassland (5 spp.). Native species occurred
regurgitated pellets from the daytime roost predominantly in the woodland and open
of a Barn Owl and five Fox scats collected woodland habitats, while introduced species
from different parts of the study area were occurred in all habitats. One species, the
analysed for hair content by Barbara Triggs Domestic Sheep, occurred in the surrounding
(Genoa, Victoria). farmland and was only recorded within the
study area as remains in a Fox scat.
6. Status. The abundance of each species
recorded during the survey was classified Based on the frequency criteria, two mammal
on the basis of frequency of observation. species were abundant in the study area,
Species were classed as rare if an individual two were common, five were uncommon and
or group was recorded only once during four were rare. Abundant species were the
the survey, uncommon if they were Eastern Grey Kangaroo and the introduced
recorded on more than one occasion but European Rabbit.
74 Australian Zoologist 31(1)
Table 1. Bird species recorded in Pomingalarna Park between 1992 and 1997. Method of detection: D =diurnal
observation, S = spotlighting, C = identification by call, I = indirect sign (vacant nest or feeding remains identified).
Habitat: W = woodland, 0 = open woodland, G = grassland, A = aquatic, H = overhead at height. Status in Study
Area: R = rare, U = uncommon, C =common, A = abundant. Note: nomenclature fallows Christidis and Boles (1994).
Family Species Common name Method Habitat Status
Phaaianidae Coturnix ypsilophora Brown Quail D 0.G U
Anatidae Chenonetta jubotn Australian Wood Duck D,C O,A U
Phalacrocoracidae Phnlacmcorax melanoleucos Little Pied Cormorant D A R
Phalacrocoracidae Phalacmcornx cnrbo Great Cormorant D H R
Pelicanidae Pclecanus cotlspicillalur Australian Pelican D H R
Ardeidae Eptta novaehollandiac White-faced Heron D A U
Ardeidae Ardco pacifxn White-necked Hemn D A R
Ardeidae Arden olba Great, Egret D A R
Threrkiornithidae Threskiornir moluco Australian Whire Ibis D H R
Accipitridae Elanus axillams Black-shouldered Kite D, C 0. G C
Accipitridae Haliartur rphenums Whistling Kite D, C 0. G U
Accipitridae Accipitcr sp. Br. GorhawWC. Sparrowhawk D W, 0 U
Accipitridae Apila nudax Wedge-tailed Eagle D H U
Accipitridae Hieraaetur morphnoidcs Little Eagle D 0, G C
Falconidae Folco brrigora Brown Falcon D 0, G U
Falconidae Folio cmchroider Nankeen Kestrel D 0, G C
Turnicidae Tumix "0% Painted Button-quail D W C
Charadriidae Vanellus miles Masked Lapwing D, C A U
Columbidae Phps chnlcoptcra Common Bronzewing D 0 U
Columbidae Ocyphnps lophoter Crested Pigeon D 0, G C
Columbidae Geopelia cuneata Diamond Dove D G R
Columbidae Geopclia rtriata Peaceful Dove D. C W, 0, G, A A
Cacatuidae Cacntua roseicapilla Galah D, C 0, G, A A
Cacatuidae Cacatun galerita Sulphur-crested Cockatoo D, C 0, G C
Cacatuidae Nymphinrr hollnndicur Cockatiel D 0 R
Psittacidae Glorropsitta puxilln Little Lorikeet D, C W, 0 C
'
Psittacidae Polyt8lis swoimonii Superb Parrot D 0 R
Rittacidae Plalycernrs elegnnr Crimson (Yellow) Rosella D,C W, 0 A
Psittacidae Platycernrs eximius Eastern Rosella D, C w,0 U
Psittacidae Psephotus hnemnfonotus Red-rumped Parrot D W, 0, G, A A
Psittacidae Melopsittarus undulatus Budgerigar D 0 R
Cuculidae Cacomentisjlabelliformis Fan-tailed Cuckoo D, C W U
Cuculidae Chqsococcyx bbosalir Horsfield's Bronze-Cuckoo D 0 R
Strigidae Ninox novaeseelandiae Southern Boobook D W R
Tytonidae Tyto albo Barn Owl S, I W, 0 U
Podargidae Pedal-gus rt~goider Tawny Frogmouth S, C W U
Halcyonidae Darelo novacguineac Laughing Kookaburra D, C 0 A
Halcyonidae Todirnmphus ronctw Sacred Kingfisher D,C W U
Meropidae Merwr omotur Rainbow Bee-eater D,C 0 C
Climacteridae Cormobntes leucopheus White-throated Treecreeper D, C W U
Climacteridae Climacterir picumnur Brown Treecreeper D, C W, 0 A
Maluridae Mnlum cyancus Superb Fairy-wren D, C 0 C
Pardalotidae Pardalotru pundntur Spotted Pardalote D, C W U
Pardalotidae mrdalotus strintvs Striated Pardalote D, C 0 U
Pardalotidae Chthonicola ragitlala Speckled Warbler D W U
Pardalatidae Aconthirn uropygiolis Chestnut-rumped Thornbill D W U
Pardalotidae Acanthiza rcguloider Buff-rumped Thornbill D W R
Pardalotidae Acanthi* chrysorrhoa Yellow-rumped Thornbill D 0, G C
Pardalotidae Aranthira nona Yellow Thornbill D W. 0 C
Pardalotidae Apheloccphala leucopsir Southern Whiteface D 0, G U
Meliphagidae AnLhochacra canrnculota Red Wattlebird D,C W, 0 U
Meliphagidae Philemon citreogular2 Little Friarbird D W U
Meliphagidae Entomyron cyanotis Blue-faced Honeyeater D 0 R
Meliphagidae Manorina melanocephala Noisy Miner D, C 0 C
Meliphagidae Lich~nostomrup enicillatui White-plumed Honeyeater D, C W, 0, A A
Meliphagidae Melithr$tur sp. Honeyeater sp. D W U
Meliphagidae Epthianum lricolor Crimson Chat D 0 R
Petroicidae Petroica multicolor Scarlet Robin D W R
Petroicidae Pchoica goodenovii Red-capped Robin D 0 U
Petroicidae Pchoica phoenicea Flame Robin D Ur, 0 U
Petmicidae Melanodyar cucullofo Hooded Robin D W, 0, G C
Petmicidae Eoproltria aurtralir Eastern Yellow Robin D, C W C
Pomatostamidae Pomntostomur mperciliosis White-browed Babbler D, C, I W. 0 A
Neorittidae Dnphornositto chysoptcra Varied Sittella D W R
Pacycephalidae Falcunculru finlotus Crested Shrike-tit D, C W U
'
Pacycephalidae Pachycephnln inomlo Gilbert's Whistler D W U
Pacycephalidae Fhchyiephala pectoralis Golden Whistler D, C W U
Pacycephalidae mchyccpholo rufiuenf7ir Rufous Whistler D 0 U
Continued on page 77
June 1999 Australian Zooioglst 37(1) 75
Fzgure 3. Woodland habitat in Pomingalarna pack. Photograph by Figure 4. Open woodland habitat in Pomingalarna Park.
Michael Mur~hv. Photograph by Pam Rawle.
Fzgure 5. Grassland habitat in Pomingalarna Park. Photograph by Fzgure 6. Brow1 lail Coturnzx ypszlophora observed during diurnal
Michael Murphy. survey in open ..-ddland at Pomingalarna. This shy species occurs
in small groups in areas with tall, dense grass cover, and is absent
from heavily grazed areas Photograph by Michael Murphy.
-
Fzgure 7. Tawny Frogmouth Podargus strzgozdss observed during Fzgure 8. Common Ring Pos Ps, .us rrznus
spotlighting in woodland at Pomingalarna. While currently recorded during spotlighting ln woodland at Yomingalarna. This
relatively common in the region, this species is likely to decline species is totally dependent on remnant woodland and riverine
if vege )n components Le present variegatec ~ d - forest in the region. Photograph by Michael Murphy.
(
sc tlnu disa~oear.P hot ~nhhv Michael Milri -m 3
Fzgure Res , Flycatc Myzagra in open wo nd Fzgurf I open woodland 1.
at Pc gal; . Thts cies wa detected , its Thls sk .__ _-_-_ i.nd irectly by id -.-.-A-l-.-uLA -n
characteristic harsh, grating call. Another common name for the old roost site. Analysis of reguigltated pellets from this loost
species is the Scissors-grinder. It occurs in woodland and open Indicated that the owl had preyed exclus~velyo n the introduced
forest, often near water. Photograph by Michael Murphy. House Mouse Mus musculus. Photograph by Michael Murphy.
Family Species Common name Method Habitat Status
Pacyccphalidae Colluricincln hnmonicn Grey Shrike-thrush D, C W. 0 A
Dicmidae Myiagra inquizla Restless Flycatcher D, c 0,G U
Dicmidae Grollino cyanolmu Magpie-lark D, C, I 0, G. A C
Dicmidae RhipLiurn hliginosa Grey Fantail D W U
Dicruidae Rhipduro 1rucopht)rr Willie Wagtail D, C W, 0, G, A A
Campephagidae Corociw novaihnllandiac Blackfaced Cuckoo-shrike D W, 0 C
Campephagidae Lnlagc sucurii White-winged Triller D 0 U
Oriolidae Oriolw ragiltohu Olive-backed Oriole D, C W U
Artamidae Artamus supeniliorus White-browed Woodswallow D 0 U
Artamidae Artomur cyon+lcmr Dusky Woodswallow D W, 0, H U
Artamidae Crnrlicus lorqunhrs Grey Butcherbird D 0 U
Artamidae (jmnorhina tibkm Australian Magpie D, C 0, G, A A
Corvidae Corn roronoidcr Australian Raven D, C W, 0, G A
Corcoracidae Conorox melanorhamphos Whiteringed Chough D, I W U
Motacillidae Anthw novocrcelnndiac Richard's Pipit D G U
'
Passeridae Ftzsser dmcsticvr House Sparrow D 0, G U
Pasreridae Taeniofigin bichenovii Double-barred Finch D, C 0, G A
Passeridae Stngo~plnrrog uttala Diamond Firetail D, C W. 0 C
Dicaeidae Dicmum himndinoceum Mistletoebird D W R
Hirundiuidae Chnomoeco lcucnstmum White-backed Swallow D W R
Hirundiuidae Himndo neoxena Welcome Swallow D W, 0, G, A A
Hirundinidae Himndo nigricans Tree Martin D W, 0, G, A U
Hirundinidae Himndo oriel Fairy Martin I 0 R
Sylviidae Cincloromphus mathewsi Rufour Songlark D, C 0 U
Muscicapidae Tu&r minrla Common Blackbird D, C 0 U
Sturnidae Sturnur vulgaris Common Starling D 0, G U
'Vulnerable species in New South Wales Threatmcd Species Conscrvntion Act 1995.
41ntroduced species.
Table 2. Mammal species recorded in Pomiugalarna Park between 1992 and 1997. Method of detection: D = diurnal
observation, S = spotlighting, E = Elliott trapping, F =prey in fox scat, 0 = prey in owl pellet, I =other indirect signs
(scat, tracks or skeletal remains). Habitat: W = woodland, 0 = open woodland, G = grassland. Status in Study Area:
R = rare. U = uncommon, C = common, A = abundant. Note: nomenclature follows Strahan (1995).
Family Species Common name Method Habitat Status
Tachyglossidae Tachyglosrus nculcotur Short-beaked Echidna D W R
Pseudacheiridae Prcudockcirur Percpinus Common Ringrail Possum S W, 0 U
Phalangeridae Richosurus vulpeculn Common Brushtail Possum S, I W, 0 U
Macropodidae Mncmpus giganteus Eastern Grey Kangaroo D, S, I W, 0, G A
Macropadidae Wallabia bicoln~ Swamp Wallaby D, S, 1 W, 0 C
'
Muridae Mus nrusculw House Mouse S, E, F, 0 0 U
'
Canidae Gnisf omiliarir Domestic Dog D, F, I W, 0, C C
Canidae Wiper vulp'u I Red Fox D, I W, 0. C U
Felidae Fclis mtus Feal Cat I W R
Leporidae Ol)lclolagus cuniculur ' European Rabbit D, s, F, I W, 0, G A
'
Leparidae Lcpw upensis Brown Hare D, S 0, G U
'
Bovidae Cnpm hinw Domestic Goat D W R
'
Bovidae Ovir oricr Domestic Sheep F - R
'Introduced species.
DISCUSSION the composition of the avifauna, and recorded
one species, the Brown Thornbill Acanthira
Birds
pusilla, which was additional to the present
The terrestrial avifauna of the study area study.
was diverse, and included resident species,
irregular visitors and seasonal migrants. The avifauna reflects the location of the New
Waterbirds were only occasional visitors, owing South Wales South Western Slopes in the
to the limited area of suitable habitat present. transitional zone between the coastal Bassian
Given the duration of the survey, it is and arid Eyrean faunal assemblages (Kikkawa
considered that most resident bird species and Pearse 1969; Schodde 1979). Bassian
present in the study area were identified. species recorded include the Little Lorikeet,
However, it is likely that additional irregular Flame Robin, Eastern Yellow Robin, Golden
visitors and seasonal migrants would be Whistler and Dusky Woodswallow. Eyrean
recorded if further work was done. An earlier species include the Budgerigar, Crimson Chat,
study at Pomingalarna by Degabriele et al. Chestnut-mmped Thornbill and Southern
(1979) identified significant seasonality in Whiteface.
June 1999 Australian Zoologist 31(1) 77
The number of species of birds recorded was and nesting resources (Saunders and Ingram
high compared to that recorded in many, 1987; Webster and Ahern 1992).
considerably larger, remnants in the region
Species now absent but considered, based on
(Gall 1982). This is in part related to the
assessment of historical range and availability
presence of both wooded and open habitats in
of suitable habitat, to have possibly occurred
the study area, and partly to the duration of
in the study area previously, include the Emu
the survey.
Dromaius nouaehollandiae, Australian Bustard
The avifaunas of agricultural areas represent Ardeotis australis, Bush Stone-curlew Burhinu
a spectrum of grades of sensitivity to clearing grallanus and Barking Owl Ninox connivens.
and fragmentation (Loyn 1985; Barrett et al. The Emu, Bush Stone-curlew and Barking
1994). At one end of the spectrum are those Owl are uncommon and considered at risk
species favoured by clearing through being in the region (Gall 1982), while the Australian
either open country species, or foresthvoodland Bustard is extinct in the region (Blakers et al.
species tolerant of disturbance and fragmenta- 1984).
tion. At the other end are those species
disadvantaged by clearing as a result of their
Mammals
reliance on intact areas of forest/woodland.
In contrast to the avifauna, the non-volant
Species towards the open country or
native mammal fauna of the study area was
disturbance-tolerant end of the spectrum
depauperate. Non-volant mammals are generally
recorded at Pomingalarna include the Black-
more prone to decline and extinction than
shouldered Kite, Crested Pigeon, Galah, Noisy
birds and bats because of a combination of
Miner, Australian Magpie, Australian Raven
higher daily energy requirements (due to
and Welcome Swallow. These species occurred
greater body size), lesser mobility, and greater
predominantly in the grassland and open
propensity to isolation (Burbidge and McKenzie
woodland habitats in the study area. They
1989). Decline and extinction of Australian
occur widely throughout the South Western
mammals since European settlement has been
Slopes region, and their current regional
greatest among medium-sized (Critical Weight
status is secure.
Range) ground-dwelling species (Calaby 1971;
Species towards the disturbance-sensitive Burbidge and McKenzie 1989; Kennedy 1992),
end of the spectrum recorded at Pomingalarna and has been most severe in agricultural areas
include the Painted Button-quail, Common (Burbidge and McKenzie 1989; Saunders
Bronzewing, Brown Treecreeper, Speckled 1994). Only one CWR ground-dwelling native
Warbler, Buff-rumped Thornbill, Hooded mammal species remains at F'umingalarna: the
Robin, White-browed Babbler, Crested Short-beaked Echidna.
Shrike-tit, Gilbert's Whistler and Diamond
The low native mammal species diversity
Firetail. These species are considered to be
is a function of the small size and duration
of regional conservation significance because
of isolation of the study area (Bennett 1987),
their distribution in the region is largely
as well as a reflection of the generally low
restricted to the remaining remnants of the
extant native mammal species diversity in
original vegetation. The woodland and open
the South Western Slopes region (Gall 1982).
woodland habitats in the study area were the
Species extinct or greatly declined in the
most important for these species, and it is
region since European settlement include the
noteworthy that a number were found to be
Spotted-tailed Quoll Dasyurus maculatus,
common residents of the study area.
Eastern Quoll D. uiuerrinus, Brush-tailed
Woodland-dependent bird species, including Phascogale Phascogale tapoatafa, Yellow-footed
many of those listed above, are in serious Antechinus Antechinus Jauipes, Bilby Macrotis
decline in agricultural regions across southern lagotis, Koala Phascolarctos cinereus, Common
Australia (Saunders 1989; Lynch and Saunders Wombat Vombatus ursinus, Sugar Glider
1991; Barrett et al. 1994; Robinson 1994; Petaum breuiceps, Squirrel Glider R norfolceenis,
Barrett 1997; Bennett and Ford 1997). At Bridled Nail-tail Wallaby Onychogaleafraenata,
least one-quarter of woodland bird species Brush-tailed Rock-wallaby Pehogale penicillata,
throughout Australia's temperate woodlands Common Wallaroo Macropus robustus, White-
are believed to be declining (Robinson footed Rabbit-rat Conilurus albipes and Dingo
and Traill 1996). In addition to the direct Canis lupus dingo (Watts and Aslin 1981;
reduction in available habitat through Gall 1982; Strahan 1995). It is likely that
widespread clearing and fragmentation of at least some of these species previously
woodland, these species also face increased occurred in the study area. Previous records
competition from open country and disturbance- from Wagga Wagga include the Spotted-tailed
tolerant species for foraging resources (Loyn Quoll in 1902 and the Bilby in 1912 (Gall
1987; Cox and Bauer 1997; Grey et al. 1997) 1982).
78 Australian Zwlogist 31(1)
The regional conservation status of most region be assumed to have high conservation
extant native mammal species on the South value. This study has demonstrated that the
Western Slopes is considered poor (Gall 1982), Pomingalarna Park reserve provides habitat
although many are common and secure for a range of woodland fauna, including
elsewhere in their range. All five native species of state and regional conservation
mammal species recorded in this study were significance. Woodland remnants of similar
listed by Gall (1982) as poorly conserved in size occur throughout the region. The regional
the region. All are dependent, to varying conservation of many woodland-dependent
degrees, on remnants of native vegetation. species in the moderate range of disturbance-
sensitivity is supported by the habitat provided
Introduced mammals are now a prominent
by these scattered smaller remnants (Barrett
part of the mammal fauna in the study area,
1997).
occupying many niches vacated by CWR
ground-dwelling native species. The species Remnants of this size are too small to main-
recorded in the analysis of Fox scats are tain viable populations in vacua. Instead, tlie
typical of the prey of the Fox in agricultural conservation of disturbance-sensitive woodland
areas in southeastern Australia (Coman 1973; fauna in small remnants relies on the
Croft and Hone 1978). The native mammal movement of individuals between remnants
species at Pomingalarna are all known to to maintain viable metapopulations. The
be preyed upon by feral predators in forest probability of successful movement from one
areas (Triggs et al. 1984; Lunney et al. 1990), woodland remnant to another depends on
and their absence from the Fox's diet in the distance between remnants and the nature
the present study is probably a reflection of of the intervening matrix, and varies between
their low abundance relative to the introduced species. The creation and enhancement of
prey species. Similarly, the reliance of the vegetated corridors linking small remnants
Barn Owl on the House Mouse reflects can re-establish or assist movement between
the abundance of mice in the area, and is remnants, and broaden the range of woodland
consistent with published references to the species able to maintain populations there
Barn Owl's diet (Hollands 1991). (Merriam 1991; Saunders and de Rebeira
1991).
Although the identification of micro-
chiropteran bat species was outside the scope The most extreme disturbance-sensitive
of this study, it should be noted that they woodland fauna species, isolated in woodland
represent about one-fifth of Australia's native remnants and unable to move from one
mammal species (Strahan 1995), and can to another, can only be conserved in larger-
constitute a significant component of an area's block reserves of sufficient size to support
native mammal fauna. Gall (1982) recorded 12 independent viable populations. Some of the
microchiropteran bat species in the South species recorded at Pomingalarna may prove
Western Slopes region, comprising about one- to be isolated relict populations of extreme
third of the extant native mammal fauna in disturbance-sensitive woodland fauna species,
the region. in the process of declining to local extinction.
The Gilbert's Whistler, for example, which
Conservation implications has disappeared from woodland remnants in
Temperate box woodlands are among the the central wheatbelt of Western Australia
(Saunders 1989) may belong to this category.
most poorly conserved vegetation communities
in New South Wales, and are most vulnerable
The preservation of habitat for native flora
or endangered in agricultural areas (Benson
and fauna is a primary objective of the current
1991). In the New South Wales South Western
management of Pcimingalarna Park (Wagga
Slopes region less than 20% of the original
Wagga City Council 1995). The area presently
woodland and forest cover remains, and
supports both open country fauna and a
only 1% of the region has been reserved for
range of woodland fauna from disturbance-
nature conservation (State of the Environment
tolerant to disturbance-sensitive species. The
Advisory Council 1996). Because of the extent
final test of the conservation value of this
of clearing, opportunities for establishing
small remnant will be whether it can maintain
large new conservation reserves in the region
its current woodland-dependent fauna. The
are limited (Morgan and Terrey 1992). There
loss of these species from this and other
is therefore an urgent need to recognize the
remnants across the South Western Slopes
value of small remnants in conserving
would represent a significant loss of regional
woodland fauna in the variegated landscape.
biodiversity and biodistinctiveness. The
Morgan and Terrey (1992) recommended that information from the present study provides
all remaining Grey Box woodland remnants on a useful baseline for future assessment of
crown reserves in the South Western Slopes changes in the status of species in the area.
Austraiian Zoologist 31(1) 79
Conclusion Coman, B. J., 1973. The diet of red foxes, Vulpcs vulpes
L., in Victoria. Aust. j. Zaol. 21: 391-401.
The degradation of the wheat-sheep agri-
Cox, S. J. and Bauer, J. J., 1997. Species interactions
cultural areas is one of the most serious
between the White-winged Chough and Australian
conservation issues in Australia today (Saunders Magpie in a fragmented landscape. hc. Cons. Biol.
and Hobbs 1995; Robinson and Traill 1996). 3: 28%94.
Overclearing of native vegetation has resulted
Croft, J. D. and Hone, L. J., 1978. The stomach contents
in a decline in both biodiversity and of foxes, Vulper wlper, collected in New South Wales.
agricultural productivity (Saunders 1994; Aul. Wildl. Res. 5: 85-92.
Robinson and Traill 1996; Barrett 1997).
Degabriele, R., Tenison, K. and Woad, H., 1979.
The survival of much of the extant native The avian community associated with Eucnlyelus
fauna is linked to small, scattered remnants micm~o7pa.E mu 79: 87-89.
of the original vegetation. Sympathetic and
Gall, B., 1982. The south west rlopesfor~nos uruc).. Report
co-ordinated management of these small for NSW National Parks and Wildlife Service.
remnants, involving co-operation between
Grey, M. J., Clarke, M. F. and Loyn, R. H., 1997.
landowners and land management agencies,
Initial changes in the avian communitier of remnant
is essential if the surviving biodiversity is to eucalypt woodlands folluwing a reduction in the
be conserved. abundance of Noisy Miners, Manorina meilmoceflhnla.
Wildl. Rer. 24: 631-48.
ACKNOWLEDGEMENTS Hollands, D., 1991. Birds of the Night. Reed Books:
Balgowlah, New, South Wales. 224 Pp.
The author wishes to thank Roger Good and
Kennedy, M., 1992. Austrolnrinn Marrupiah and
Mick Andren for helpful discussions, two
Monotremes: an Action Plan for their Conicmation.
anonymous referees for their constructive
International Union for Conservation of Nature and
comments on a draft of this manuscript, Natural Resources: Gland, Switzerland.
and Irma Noller for her hospitality during
Kikkawa, J. and Parse, K., 1969. Geographical
visits to Wagga Wagga. This research was
distribution of land birds in Australia -a numerical
undertaken under New South Wales Scientific analysis. Aud. J. Zool. 17: 821-40.
Investigation Licence number A1362.
Loyn, R. H., 1985. Birds in fragmented forests in
Gippsland, Victoria. Pp. 323-31 in Birds olEucalypt
REFERENCES Forests and Woodlands: Ecology, Consemotion, Manage-
ment ed by A. Keast, H. F. Recher, H. Ford and
Barrett, G. W., 1997. Birds an farms: repairing the rural D. Saunders. Royal Australian Ornithological Union
landscape. Wingspan 7(4): 10-15. and Surrey Beatry & Sons: Sydney, New South Waler.
Barrett, G. 1V., Ford, H. A. and Recher, H. F., 1994. Loyn, R. H., 1987. Effects of patch area and habitat
Conservation of woodland birds in a fragmented on bird abundances, species numbers and tree
rural landscape. Pac. Corn. Biol. 1: 245-56. health in fragmented Victorian forests. Chapter 6
(Pp. 65-77) in Nntura Conrervalion: the Role q/
Bennett, A. F, 1987. Conservation of mammals within
Rmnanls of Native Vcgrtntim ed by D. A. Saunders,
a fragmented forest environment: the contributions
G. W h o l d , A. A. Burbidge and A. J. M. Hopkinr.
of insular biogeography and autecology. Chapter 4
Surrey Beatty & Sons: Chipping Norton, New South
(Pp. 41-52) in Nnlure Conreruation: thc Role of
Wales.
Remnants ofNative Vlgelalim ed by D. A. Saunders,
G. W. Arnold, A. A. Burbidge and A. J. M. Hopkins. Lunney, D., Triggs, B., Eby, P. and Ashby, E., 1990.
Surrey Beatty & Sons: Chipping Norton, New South Analysis of scats of dogs Canis familiaris and foxes
Waler. klprs vulpes (Canidae: Carnivora) in coastal forests
near Bega, New South Wales. Aust. Wildl. Rer. 17:
Bennett, A. F. and Ford, L. A,, 1997. Land use, habitat
61-68.
change and the conservation of birds in fragmented
rural environments: a landscape perspective from Lynch, J. F. and Saunders, D. A,, 1991. Responses of
the Northern Plains, Victoria, Australia. Poc. Cons. bird species to habitat fragmentation in the
Biol. 3: 244-61. wheatbelt of Western Australia: interiors, edges and
corridors. Chapter 14 (Pp. 143-58) in Nolure
Benson, J., 1991. The effect of 200 years of European
Conservation 2: the Role of Corridors ed by D. A.
settlement on the vegetation and flora of New South
Saunderr and R. J. Hohbs. Surrey Beatty & Sons:
Wales. Cunninghamlo 2(3): 343-70.
Chipping Norton, New South Wales.
Blakers, M., Davier, S. and Reilly, P., 1984. ThA lla of
Mclntyre, S. and Barrett. G. W, 1992. Habitat variega-
Aurhallon Bid. Melbourne University Press: Carlton,
tion: an alternative to fragmentation. Conr. Biol.
Victoria. 738 Pp.
6(1): 146-47.
Burbidge, A. A. and McKenrie, N. L., 1989. Patterns in
Merriam, G., 1991. Corridors and connectivity: animal
the modern decline of Western Australia's vertebrate
populations in heterogenous environments. Chapter
fauna: causes and conservation implications. Biol.
13 (Pp. 19342) in Nature Consemlion 2: lhc Role
Cmr. 50: 143-98.
ofCorridor5 ed by D. A. Saunders and R. J. Hobbs.
Calaby, J. H., 1971. The current status of Australian Surrey Beatty & Sons: Chipping Norton. New South
Macropodidae. Aust. Zoo1 16: 17-29. Wales.
Christidis, L. and Bales, W. E.. 1994. The Taxonomy and Morgan, G. and Terrey, J., 1992. Nature Conseraation in
Speciir of Bird of Australia o d ils Tcrriloricr. Royal W~sl8mN ew Sovlh Wnlcs. National Parks Association
Australian Ornithological Union Monograph 2. of NSW Inc.: Sydney, New South Wales.
80 Australian Zoologist 31(1) June 1999