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Spring 2015 Newsletter of Nature Foundation SA IncPrinted on 100% recycled paper

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Managing feral predators

SPRING 2015 APPEAL

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Hello again to all our Members, Donors and Supporters.

I wish to thank those of you who again supported the recent Vital Works Appeal,

whilst a little less in dollars from last year as at the time of this publication the figure is only around 12% lower than the excellent result the previous year.

NEW APPEAL: Further developments in feral predator controlThis appeal concerns the most current debate in our Conservation world – the incredible need to eradicate feral predators when and wherever possible.

Buoyed, as we are, at the most encouraging reports re the increase in numbers of the Yellow-footed Rock-wallaby on Mt Friday at Hiltaba and the stunning finds of YFRW scats in a new area, the ongoing battle to get rid of those predators which impact on these endangered animals, mainly foxes and cats, is ever before us.

Our brilliant efforts which include the highly successful State Government’s fox baiting programme and our own goat culling programme have been very successful but these efforts are never absolute whilst the scourge of the loss of species, the cat, is not dealt with.

We praise Minister Hunt’s initiative – probably the most far-sighted environment policy we have seen from a federal government since John Howard’s Murray Darling Basin Scheme. A most exciting new project with considerably successful outcomes is in development by John Read from Arid Land Recovery and the Middleback Alliance. It is a high tech system which has been supported by the Federal Government at the last forum, Bush Heritage Australia, Adelaide University and others. The new option to add to the management of the most widely spread predator, the feral cat, is being trialled on Kangaroo Island and being used to help protect the recently re-discovered Night Parrot.

The proceeds from this appeal (refer page three) will enable NFSA to add to its protection of the YFRW and other animals at Hiltaba by purchasing one of these sophisticated pieces of equipment and to monitor its results which will assist the further development of this project.

Recent events: Central feature presentation of research papers from some of our post-grad awardees Our Nature Round-up was highly successful recently with some 65 members and staff present, as was our annual Very Special Morning Tea Series with 30 of our premium Donors enjoying a beautiful morning tea at Glanville House.

The feature on each occasion was presentations on their research work by young recipients of grants from our Post Graduate grant giving programme.

It was a highlight of my early connections with NFSA – after experiencing these presentations at the 1st AGM I attended I was moved to commit to supporting NFSA – the support NFSA through your generosity gives to the advancement of these young scientists’ careers is outstanding.

Important conservation land being cleared with little regard for wildlifeAs I drive around my beloved Mylor area I see more and more clearance taking place not so much of established trees (unless they are in the way of horse menages of course and then they disappear) but so much undergrowth, and important habitat is being cleared with very little, if any, regard for the impact not only on bird life in particular, but all species.

The problem is that Local Government and the NVC do not have the resources and legal framework to stop this horrific degrading of pristine bushland much of which has never ever been cleared before. In a particular recent example an almost untouched unbroken 2.5 km long stretch of native bushland has been damaged probably irreparably by two new home owners who don’t wish to hear about the degradation they are causing. This is the terrible outcome of the lack of support for the environment by decision makers throughout our land at present – thank goodness for our Foundation and other like us and thank goodness for you - our Donors and Supporters.

Result of SGM: At the recent Special General Meeting some 65 Staff and Members attended also 17 Proxy votes were lodged 15 in the President’s name and 2 in the Hon Treasurer’s name. Staff did not vote so there were 64 eligible votes and or proxies who voted.

The result of the proposition that the 5 year period a President may stand for election be removed from the Constitution passed 60 for 2 against and 2 not voting.

The result for the inclusion in the Constitution of a procedure to follow in the event there are more candidates standing for election than the number of vacancies available was carried unanimously.

Witchelina visitations July – December 2014It is great to receive reports of a growing number of visitors undertaking scientific study at Witchelina. For example students from North American Universities have been studying some of the very important Geological features of our property.

It was in our thoughts when negotiating the purchase of Witchelina that it might one day become the Scientific Centre of Excellence in the North. In 6 months some 150 visitors, scientists and volunteers worked at Witchelina, – below are just some highlights of those visitations (many conducted multiple visits):

July: Flinders University Thick-billed Grass-wren research team

University Texas – El Paso & University Northern Illinois geology visit

Aug: Witchelina wildflower tours Birds SA survey

Sept: Witchelina Restoration Ecology forum

University of Adelaide Bee research trip

Oct: Flinders University Soil Seedbank Project Cultural heritage approval- rabbit warren ripping

Nov: Deakin University Zebra Finch research Mark Curtis ML4WD Club

Thank you all for your ongoing support, Bob Lott.

President’s Letter BOB LOTT, PRESIDENT

2 www.naturefoundation.org.au

The Spring 2015 Appeal is a first for Nature Foundation SA – we will be using funds to specifically manage the ongoing threat of feral predators to native birds and animals on Witchelina, Hiltaba, Tiliqua and Watchalunga Nature Reserves, properties bought to protect at-risk populations. The Management Plans for Witchelina and Hiltaba prioritise feral pest management with the objective of reducing the number of feral predators (foxes and cats) and their impact on native fauna.

Just a heads up - the Cat Grooming Trap article on page 5 has a picture of a 7.2kg cat that was shot at Witchelina and cat gut contents. We recognise that these images may upset some readers however this is our reality – the reality of conservation.

Managing our properties involves a pragmatic approach to decreasing predator numbers – inaction would have a devastating effect on wildlife. These cats are feral, not strays – they are likely 20 or 30 generations (or more) since domestication and are literally hundreds of kilometres from the nearest townships. It has been suggested they moved into the SA outback following the spread of rabbits from as early as the 1870’s. They are wild, shrewd, adaptable creatures that pose the greatest threat nationally to native wildlife.

All our hard fought gains with conservation projects are to no avail if these predators are left to continue to reproduce and destroy the landscape. Even the recent relocation of

the Western Quoll, the largest known native predator, to the Flinders Ranges has been impacted by feral cats. If the carnivorous quoll is vulnerable to predation then what chance to do other small native species like Grass-wrens have?

The Cat Grooming Trap featured in this newsletter is an innovative approach to help address this national crisis. The Threatened Species Commissioner strongly supports the continued development and trial of the trap as it offers another tool for controlling feral cats and are likely to prove effective in situations where nothing else works.

Although there are field trials in place, additional funding is required to continue research and development to make this highly innovative product a reality for land managers committed to reducing the impact of feral cat predation on Australia’s unique and often threatened wildlife.

We sincerely hope that you will support this appeal and together we can all help reduce the devastating impact of feral cats on native species.

Bob LottNature Foundation SA President

2015 Spring Appeal

MANAGING FERAL PREDATORS

Donation Form | Managing Feral Predators

I would like to donate: $30 | $60 | $120 | $250 | $500 | Other: $ _______

I would like to pay by credit card (tick type below) EFT OR My cheque/money order is attached.

Mastercard VISA AMEX Diners Name on card: _____________________________________________

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Name/s: _________________________________________________________________________________________________________

Address: _________________________________________________________________ Postcode: ____________________________

Suburb/town: ____________________________________________________________ Telephone: ___________________________

Email: ___________________________________________________________________________________________________________

Electronic Funds Transfer (EFT) BSB:105900 Acc No: 963747240 Name: Nature Foundation SA Inc.

Description: (add in name)

We recommend that you email NFSA at [email protected] to advise of the EFT transaction

Donations of $2 and over are tax deductible.

Please post to:Nature Foundation SA Inc. PO Box 448 Hindmarsh SA 5007, or Phone 1300 366 191

Witchelina animals at risk of predation: Left: Stripe-faced Dunnart. Bottom: Northern Spiny-tailed Gecko. Credit: EBS Ecology www.ebsecology.com.au

3www.naturefoundation.org.au

The inaugural Treasure Hunt for Nature was held on Sunday 16 August at Elder Park as the major Nature Foundation SA community and fundraising event for 2015.

With 838 registrations it was a gorgeous day to be out and about to connect with nature in the city. Participants had the choice of three different trails: Nature Friendly, for families with young children: 1–2 hours (approx 2 km), Nature Challenging, a longer more varied route: 3–4 hours (approx 4km), and Nature Geocaching, 3–4 hours caches in the Adelaide City Parklands. Everyone who participated had a chance of winning some great prizes and we also had prizes for the highest fundraisers.

A huge thanks to Keith Conlon, media celebrity, Adelaide City Active Ambassador and the Treasure Hunt Ambassador. NFSA President Bob Lott said, “Keith’s passion and commitment to the City of Adelaide is unparalleled – who better to help us discover the secrets of this wonderful city.”

Our most sincere thanks to the following individuals and organisations: Volunteers – including Treasure Trail marshalls and Registration Desk helpers, Volunteer Photographers Graham Chilman and Leo Davis, Volunteer Videographer John Maguire (check out his fantastic video on YouTube https://youtu.be/ScXzVt6yH-8), SA Power Networks Employee Foundation for organising and running the Sausage Sizzle, Blackwood Lions Club – donation of sausages for the Sausage Sizzle, Bellis – for the yummy fruit bars, Animals Anonymous, Nylon Zoo, Face Painters and Bouncing Castle for being part of the day, Santos – for the loan of their marquee, Martha Lott and Jordan Bianchini for the TV commercial, Clinton Garrett and Erinne Stirling for their help with the ‘Treasure Trail’ and the Art Gallery of SA – for supplying discount vouchers.

We sincerely thank the event sponsors: FIVEaa, Channel 10, Santos, SA Power Networks Employee Foundation, SA Water, Macquarie Private Wealth, Adelaide City Council – Active Ambassador Programme, CMI Toyota, Electel Resources and Traction Teambuilding.

We also sincerely thank participating organisations: SA Museum, State Library of SA, Migration Museum, Art Gallery, Adelaide Botanic Gardens, Adelaide Festival Centre and the Adelaide Zoo.

Prizes generously supplied by the Prairie Hotel, Wilpena Pound Resort, Meaneys Rest Accommodation, Murray Bridge Resort Caravan Park, Seastar Holiday Apartments Moonta Bay, Weslo Group - Thebarton Theatres, Next Generation and Tara George.

Thanks to Sophie, Angus, Lilli, Matilda. Eliza, Charlie and Sara who were interviewed by Kate Somers in the Adelaide Botanic Gardens for a Channel 10 promotion. If you missed it here’s the link http://tenplay.com.au/news/adelaide/2015/8/14/treasure-hunt-for-nature-foundation

We received some very positive feedback about what worked (and what we can do better) with resounding feedback that we should hold the event again.

Thanks to Amelia and Harry for their time in the photo shoot with The Advertiser.

Treasure Hunt for Nature16 August – Elder Park

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Elder Park Start/Finish. Credit: Graham Chilman4 www.naturefoundation.org.au

Australia has almost 1800 nationally listed threatened species. Tragically though, since European settlement, over 130 species have become extinct – lost to the world forever.

At the inaugural Threatened Species Summit held in Melbourne 16 July this year, the Hon. Greg Hunt MP announced that the Australian Government had committed $6.6 million of funding towards the delivery of a Threatened Species Strategy and over $4 million in feral cat control funding with the goal of culling two million cats by 2020. The five year Strategy Action Plan has four key areas of investment: tackling feral cats; creating safe havens for species most at risk; improving habitat and intervening in emergencies to avert extinctions.

Nature Foundation SA supports the goals of the Threatened Species Strategy to prevent species decline and support species recovery. Our conservation work helps to protect:

• Watchalunga Nature Reserve: Mount Lofty Ranges Southern Emu Wren (EPBC-endangered), Southern Bell Frog (EPBC- vulnerable) and Southern Pygmy Perch (State – rare).

• Tiliqua Nature Reserve: Pygmy Blue-tongue Lizard (endangered).

• Witchelina Nature Reserve: Plains Mouse (EPBC-vulnerable) and the Thick-billed Grass-wren (EPBC-vulnerable).

• Hiltaba Nature Reserve: Yellow-footed Rock Wallaby (EPBC- vulnerable) and six species of endemic plants, some found nowhere else.

• Water for Nature: Regents Parrot (EPBC-vulnerable).

The Foundation has raised significant funds through its appeals that have supported threatened species recovery programs around South Australia including the Black-flanked Rock-wallaby, Pygmy Blue-tongue Lizards, Glossy Black Cockatoo and woodland birds to name a few.

With the continued support of its membership and supporters the Nature Foundation SA will continue to do everything in its power to make sure that no more species are lost to extinction.

ALEX NANKIVELL: CONSERVATION PROGRAMMES MANAGER

Threatened Species Summit

Feral cats are the single greatest cause of terrestrial mammal extinction and, without doubt, the greatest threat to native wildlife in Australia. They have been implicated in at least 27 mammal extinctions across Australia and currently threaten more than 100 native species, including mammals, lizards and ground nesting birds. Feral cats are notoriously difficult to control as they are reluctant to take baits or enter traps, particularly when prey, such as small native mammals, are abundant. We need to develop new methods and tools to tackle the problem.

Cats are fastidious cleaners that groom regularly. Ecological Horizons, an ecological consultancy based in Kimba, has developed the first feral cat trap that targets this natural grooming behaviour. The grooming trap uses sensors to detect the presence of a feral cat and sprays a dose of approved toxic gel onto the fur which the cat ingests whilst grooming.

Bush Heritage Australia will be trialling the grooming trap to exclude feral cats from the last remaining population of the Night Parrot, thought extinct but recently rediscovered in Queensland.

Feral cats are thought to be main cause of the near extinction of this ground nesting parrot.

These traps are anticipated to provide a long-term control of cats in areas of high conservation value and have the potential to help the Foundation obtain greater conservation gains at Witchelina, Tiliqua and Hiltaba.

Cat grooming traps

7.2kg feral cat shot at WitchelinaPhoto credit: Paul Drummond

Example of gut content from one feral cat. Note that there are 4 native animals in total.


Witchelina

Quite a few groups have visited Witchelina recently for a range of activities. The Toyota Landcruiser Club and the Mt Lofty Rangers 4WD Club have both visited the property assisting the Foundation by donating their time to infrastructure maintenance and built heritage conservation activities.

The Toyota Landcruiser Club visited for the first time and after familiarising themselves with the property began mapping the condition of boundary fences. The Mt Lofty Rangers 4WD Club continued their excellent work restoring heritage outstations around the property, completing stabilisation work at the Bend Hut.

Rotational managers and volunteers continued work on Buffel Grass control, reducing the impact of the weed on high biodiversity value creeklines. A 30mm rainfall event in May triggered a germination event across the north of the property. The Buffel Grass control team sprayed the entire extent of the known infestations (~300ha) to ensure, as best we can, no new seed is set.

A group of 30 Bordertown Field Naturalists visited the property donating their time to help with rabbit warren mapping, seed collection, fencing and painting of the Bend Hut. Their work made a significant contribution to delivering aspects of the management plan.

Birds SA have just completed their fifth annual bird survey at Witchelina. The data has built a valuable dataset that will detail changes in species and numbers since the purchase of the property in 2010.

Three universities visited the property this winter with the University of Texas at El Paso and Northern Illinois University continuing their long standing relationship with Witchelina. The geology group has been studying the salt tectonics and diapers since the early 2000’s.

The Flinders University Bird Lab visited the property again for a third field season studying the nationally vulnerable Thick-billed Grasswren. The team were successful in gaining a NFSA research grant to continue the good work they have already completed as a result of the EPBC offset NFSA secured in 2011.

Tadpoles in waterhole. Credit: Patrick Mentzel

Bend Hut. Credit: Mark Curtis

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Hiltaba

Rainfall at Hiltaba this year has been consistent and above the average with good falls through winter leaving the hills and plains verdant and the many rock holes filled with tadpoles.

The property continues to benefit from greatly reduced goat numbers. Release from fairly intense grazing pressure on the Rhyolite hills has triggered widespread regeneration of many plant species.

Fox control for the recovery of the Yellow-footed rock-wallaby has continued property wide. The Department of Environment, Water and Natural Resources (DEWNR) has continued to support the Foundation with aerial baiting as part of its Bounceback program. Increased ground baiting has also occurred in the new locations where recent Yellow-footed rock-wallaby scats have been located.

Several smaller working bees of volunteers have undertaken to continue work on the development of walking trails and restoration of several buildings that have improved the capacity and comfort of accommodation available to either researchers or eco-tourists visiting the property.

The Governess’s and Jackaroo’s cottages have received a little bit of TLC and are now quite comfortable.

Nature Foundation SA will be hosting a Significant Environmental Benefits Restoration Ecology Forum at Hiltaba Nature Reserve from 13-16 October.

The SEB Restoration Ecology Forum is held annually alternating between Witchelina and Hiltaba Nature Reserves and is a great opportunity for environmental advisers working in the resource sector to learn about the ecology of the NFSA properties, the work of Nature Foundation SA, catch up with NFSA’s SEB Delivery Team and network with their peers. The 2015 programme includes presentations related to native vegetation management and changes to SEB regulations, Nature Foundation SA property tours and conservation activities including how environmental gains are measured and impact assessment methodology.

If interested, please contact the NFSA office.

ALEX NANKIVELL CONSERVATION PROGRAMMES MANAGER

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Tiliqua

Lucy Clive and Bonnie Derne, PhD students from Flinders University, have started two new Pygmy Bluetongue Lizard (PBT) research projects at Tiliqua Nature Reserve.

We know that we will need to translocate some PBT populations in the future from places where they are threatened to more secure sites. Moving lizards into already existing populations is known as augmentation translocation. This has potential risks from ecological, genetic and parasitological perspectives. These new projects will be to assess the risks within confined enclosures, before any actual translocations are attempted.

Enclosures are being built at Tiliqua, each 30m x 30m, to hold small subsets of the resident population interacting with translocated lizards from other sites. For three years, October to March, these lizards will be monitored for changes in physical body condition, fecundity and parasite load.

Baby lizards will have their DNA analysed to discover if they are parented by residents, by the translocated lizards, or if they are hybrids, and their growth and fitness will be compared to determine if genetic mixing has good or bad consequences. Other lizards found at Tiliqua will also occur naturally in these enclosures and their response to the ‘invasion’ will also be monitored. No translocated lizards will actually be released into the Tiliqua population during these experiments, but the results will be an essential foundation for future rescue missions for these lizards.

Lucy and Bonnie coordinated the set up relocation cages with volunteers at the Tiliqua Lizard Crawl on 6 September, also laying out pavers and roof tiles to act as refuges and sampling points for the other small reptiles that occupy the Tiliqua grasslands.

CHRIS REED CHAIR PROPERTY MANAGEMENT COMMITTEE

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Watchalunga

The last edition of Nature Matters introduced the Foundation’s latest property Watchalunga Nature Reserve. The 92 hectare property is packed full of important biodiversity, much of it threatened and in need of our help.

Watchalunga comprises swamps of the Fleurieu Peninsula and is listed as a Critically Endangered Ecological Community under the Environment Protection and Biodiversity Conservation (EPBC) Act 1999.

Two confirmed EPBC listed species are present, the Mount Lofty Ranges Southern Emu-wren (endangered) and the Southern Bell Frog (vulnerable). The waters also contain high numbers of native fish (13 have been recorded) and may be still be a refuge for the Yarra Pygmy Perch (vulnerable), and the Murray Hardyhead (vulnerable).

Previous flora surveys have identified 31 indigenous species with more species likely to occur with more thorough inspections. The Southern Pygmy Perch is present and listed as rare under the under the South Australian National Parks and Wildlife Act 1972.

The Foundation recently held a workshop with a number of key people who have a history working with the property over the past decade. The purpose of the workshop was to brainstorm and prioritise the biodiversity assets and threatening processes that the Foundation wishes to manage for the overall benefit and improvement of the flora and fauna.

The outcomes from this workshop will be used to develop a Management Plan for the property. Thanks to Marcus Pickett (Ornithologist & Southern Emu-wren expert- Conservation Council), John Gitsham (Fleurieu Swamps Project Officer- Goolwa to Wellington Local Action Planning), Will Miles (Projects Manager- Lower Lakes and Coorong- GWLAP) and Julie Schofield (Fauna Officer- Conservation Council).


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WATER FOR NATUREWell, Spring is here and so WFN is getting into gear again – and it is going to be a big year! We already have approval from the Commonwealth Environmental Water Holder for 1.8 GL to use at the sites listed below.

IAN ATKINSON: CHIEF EXECUTIVE OFFICER

AN INITIATIVE OF NATURE FOUNDATION SA

AN INITIATIVE OF NATURE FOUNDATION SA

Name Location Brief description MLs 2015

Lyrup Lagoon (new)

South of Lyrup township

Aiming to induce brine shrimp bloom and attract large numbers of birds to feed. 220

Mundic Wetland (new)

South of Renmark on Pike Floodplain

Blackbox woodland site, last had water in 2011 flood. 120

Inner Mundic Creek (new)

South of Renmark on Pike Floodplain

Mixed Blackbox and Redgum woodland last had water in 2011 flood. 20

Rilli Reserve & Westbrooks (new)

Between Berri and Loxton

Blackbox woodland still recovering from Millennium drought. Many Blackbox saplings.

50

Waikerie Ferry (new)

Waikerie Targeting Blackbox saplings from 2011 flood. Only a small site but right on the edge of town.

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Duck Hole South of Renmark on Pike Floodplain

Large wetland with fringing vegetation which we first filled last year. 200

Johnson’s Waterhole

North of Renmark Third year we have watered this wetland. Very popular with Black Swans with over 200 recorded on one day!

200

South Teringie West of Narrung on Lake Alexandrina

Managed by traditional owners this wetland site continues to improve since we started water last year.

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Calperum Station (x6)

North east of Renmark

Extensive minor wetlands and floodplains. Again this year watering at least six areas of Lignum and Blackbox woodland.

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Thiele’s Flat Loxton Right on the edge of town we are watering Blackbox regeneration with sprinklers.

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Ramco River Terrace

West of Ramco This is our third year at this site watering Blackbox regeneration with sprinklers. 20

Rilli – Stanitzkis Between Berri and Loxton

Site is recovering well from Millennium drought with great response to flooding and sprinklers.

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Clark’s Floodplain Between Berri and Loxton

Our longest running site we continue to identify new areas of Blackbox and Redgum woodland for watering using a mix of flooding and sprinklers.

200

Loxton Riverfront Reserve

Loxton Right on the edge of town we are watering Blackbox regeneration with sprinklers and filling the adjacent wetland.

50

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Greg Toop has, with regret, resigned from his position of Water For Nature Chair since 2012 (and Council Member since 2009) for personal reasons. We thank Greg for his support and great work, under his guidance the Water For Nature programme has gone from strength to strength.

Greg will remain on the Land Aquisition Committee since his experience in the real estate industry has been invaluable for the Foundation.


FAUNA PROFILE

Alex Nankivell – Conservation Programmes Manager with contribution from Marcus Pickett – Ornithologist Mt Lofty Ranges Southern Emu-wren & Fleurieu Peninsula Swamps Recovery Program – Conservation Council SA.

The Mt Lofty Ranges Southern Emu-wren (MLRSEW) is a small bird with an overall length of approximately 16-19cm, weighing around 8 grams. Known for its characteristic long filamentous tail (9-12 cm) comprising six feathers, both sexes are tawny-brown with dark striations with males distinguished from females by pale blue upper breast, throat and eyebrows.

Emu-wrens (spp.) are members of the passerine family Maluridae (Australian and New Guinean fairy wrens) and the genus Stipiturus endemic to Australia. MLRSEW is 1 of 8 subspecies that occur mainly in southern coastal Australia.

The MLRSEW inhabits two general habitat types, swamp and dry heath, both characterised by low dense vegetation. A key structural feature of swamp and dry heath habitats is a dense layer (>70% foliage cover) of vegetation from ground level up to 1m, dominated by shrubs and sedges.

The MLRSEW’s former recorded range extended from Yundi in the north to Deep Creek in the South and east to the Lower Finniss River. Pre European distribution is thought to have been continuous in some areas of good habitat and fragmented in others throughout its range.

The MLR Southern Emu-wren has undergone major population decline in the Mt Lofty Ranges region due to habitat loss. The estimated MLRSEW population size in 2014 was approximately 165-340 mature individuals, across 17 of 54 known sites (11 in swamp habitat and six in dry-heath habitat). During 1993-2014 there was a net loss of 18 local populations, resulting in a 58% decline in population size and 36% decline in area of occupancy.

As a consequence of this serious population decline the species is listed as endangered under the Australian Government EPBC Act and the South Australian National Parks and Wildlife Act. The swamp habitat that the species relies upon is also listed as a critically endangered ecological community under the EPBC Act.

Watchalunga, NFSA’s most recent land acquisition, was purchased largely due to the occurrence of MLRSEW on the property. The Foundation now hopes that with prudent management (including feral animal control) and restoration efforts that the area of suitable Southern Emu-wren habitat can be increased and this local population secured.

Mt Lofty Ranges Southern Emu-wren (Stipiturus malachurus intermedius)

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PIKE FLOODPLAIN BIRD MONITORING: 2015 AUTUMN SURVEYSRESEARCHER: ELIZABETH LESCHEID (MS) RIVERBUSH ENVIRONMENTALWhat was the purpose of this project?This project generates a robust dataset for birds useful to assess the state of the Pike Floodplain’s ecosystem and to monitor future ecological changes. It does this through monitoring bird activity across the Pike floodplain every spring and autumn prior to environmental watering. As a valuable indicator of ecosystem health, any changes to species and numbers of birds may provide valuable insights into the benefits and potential draw backs of environmental watering regimes. This could also be useful in adaptive management to help determine the timing and length of flooding so it occurs in a way most beneficial to the improvement of the ecosystem.

Summarise the results of your project.A total of 92 bird species were recorded during survey periods increasing the Pike Floodplain Bird List to a total of 127 species. However, almost 30% of species remain recorded through incidental observations only. New species continue to be added during each survey period. As expected, waterbird species and abundance generally varied greatly between seasons. However, some variation occurred only recently and may be related to what is happening elsewhere in the region and even the Murray-Darling Basin in general. Almost half of the bird species observed on the Pike Floodplain have a listing with regional and/or national status. Breeding activity was observed for five of these suggesting the Pike floodplain may play an important role in their long term survival. Further investigation is required to determine the role the Pike plays in the conservation of birds in South Australia and the lower Murray Darling Basin.

What is the most exciting thing about this work?“I am amazed that I continue to observe new species in spite of considerable survey effort over the past few years. The presence of some species recorded recently like the Bush stone-curlew is incredibly important on both a regional and national level due to their conservation status. I believe the role this floodplain plays in the preservation of the birds of South Australia and the lower Murray Darling Basin is only beginning to be discovered.”

AN INVESTIGATION OF LONG-NOSED FUR SEAL DIET: IDENTIFYING THE IMPORTANCE OF COMMERCIALLY FISHED SPECIES AND PREDATION ON LITTLE PENGUINSRESEARCHER: SARAH-LENA REINHOLD (HONS) FLINDERS UNIVERSITYWhat was the purpose of this project?This study investigated the diet of Long-nosed Fur Seals on the Fleurieu Peninsula, Yorke Peninsula and Kangaroo Island. Seal scats (faecal matter) were collected at 12 sites from which prey remains were identified.

Summarise the results of your project.This study identified variation in the diet of Long-Nosed Fur Seals regionally. The most common species consumed at the KI and Yorke Peninsula haulouts were Leatherjackets and Garfish, these species were either minimal or absent in the diet for Fleurieu Peninsula. Within the KI breeding sites and haulouts also demonstrated significant differences in diet. Higher proportions of oceanic species (species found beyond the continental shelf break) were found at breeding sites whilst a greater proportion of shelf water species were found at haulouts.

Commercially fished species and Little Penguins were evident in the diet of Long-Nosed Fur Seals but the importance of these prey species varied. In total, six commercially fished species were identified from scat samples. With the exception of Garfish this study suggests that commercially fished species are not an important component of fur seal diet. Garfish however were identified as a key prey species representing 12% of overall diet.

The study showed that Little Penguin predation varied significantly between regions - predation was found in 42% of samples from the Fleurieu Peninsula compared to 10% for Yorke Peninsula and 4% for KI. The higher incidence of penguin remains and shelf water species at haulout sites compared to breeding colonies suggests that the non-breeding part of the population is more likely to interact with fisheries and Little Penguins.

What is the most exciting thing about this work?“What really fascinated me was the amount of information I was able to draw from collecting something as ordinary as scat samples. I ended up being able to relate my results to a far broader spectrum of questions and topics than I had anticipated.”

RESEARCH FUNDED BY NATURE FOUNDATION SA

Tawny Frogmouth


Type of volunteering During my numerous visits to both Witchelina and Hiltaba I have been involved with electrical work and have helped out with fencing, building repairs, animal and plant surveys, walking trail planning and construction.

How and when did you become involved in NFSA? After talking to friend Megan Dyson about her involvement as a Council Member on the Nature Foundation SA board, and more specifically in relation to the inaugural Witchelina Grand Working Bee, I decided to volunteer for the event in May 2012.

What do you enjoy most about volunteering at NFSA? What is one of your most memorable experiences whilst volunteering?Being amongst other like minded enthusiastic volunteers under the passionate leadership of Chris and Maria Reed gives a great sense of satisfaction. I have seen amazing improvements to the properties infrastructure and I have also been able to observe the regeneration of plant life now that there is less grazing pressure from stock and feral goats.

The views from the top of Mt Hiltaba on the Warren Bonython walk and Termination Hill on Witchelina give an amazing feeling of open space and satisfaction knowing the vast amount of surrounding country is protected. Another experience that sticks with me was picking up a Dunart that seemed in no particular hurry to go anywhere when I lifted its tin drum home from above it while collecting rubbish.

What do you think is the key message about valuing the world we live in?Looking at the list of animals that used to inhabit Nature Foundation SA reserves that can no longer be found is a powerful reminder that now is the time to value and protect the environment. I am glad to be associated with an organisation that is doing just that.

John Ovenden is the owner/operator of Atlas Electrical.

VOLUNTEERS FOR NATURENature Foundation SA just couldn’t do what it does without volunteers – they are the very heart and soul of this organisation.

We welcome all volunteer support, such as John Ovenden, including those who are able to volunteer specialist skills, to support our operations.

The Foundation is very keen to seek volunteer assistance with fundraising and grant writing in particular.

If you have these skills (or any others that relate to our operations) and are interested in volunteering, please contact us at 8340 2880 or on [email protected]

JOHN OVENDENVolunteer Profile


REPORT FROM THE FRIENDS OF NATURE FOUNDATION SAThe ‘Friends’ are very proud of a group of

our members working with members of the Sporting Shooters Association at Witchelina.

On a recent five day trip, Kaz Herbst, George Sobolewski, Derek McKenzie

and D. Dovonan carried out a range of important activities: checks of feral pest

numbers; minor improvements at the Manager’s House; moving a water tank from the Netting Bore site to Old Mt Nor

West – a two day task in itself. A detailed report was lodged with the Foundation.

Thank you to the Friends who assisted at the Treasure Hunt for Nature.

We thank the group. John Sibly AM

SAVE OUR NATIVE ANIMALS LOTTERY

Nature Foundation SA’s cash lottery has a First prize $25,000.

Draw date 16 December - to purchase a ticket call 08 8448 5660

www.naturefoundation.org.au/help-nature/lottery/

Contact [email protected] or Phone (08) 8340 2880

NATURE FOUNDATION SAEVENTS CALENDAR 2015

WITCHELINA 4WD ‘TAG-ALONG’ TOURSGUIDED ’TAG-ALONG’ TOURS:22–24 October, and 5–7 NovemberOther dates by arrangement (minimum of three vehicles)

This ’Tag-along’ 4WD tour explores the sand hill country in the south of Witchelina and takes in a circuit around the magnificent Termination Range, a prominent landmark of the property.

Four nights/three days: $150 per person (additional nights available at extra cost). Cost includes:

• Guided Tour • Accommodation – Shearer’s Quarters • Witchelina Homestead Precinct – access to explore• Access to ‘Witchelina 4WD Track’

(normal cost of $80 per vehicle)• Guests will need to bring their own food and bedding

and please note that there is limited accommodation availability at the Shearer’s Quarters, so first in-first served.

Bookings via the Nature Foundation SA office Ph: 8340 2880, or email [email protected]

ESTATE GIFTING INFORMATION SESSIONNature Foundation SA office (preceding AGM)Thursday 22nd October, 4pmNic Edwards (NFSA Honorary Treasurer, practicing lawyer and chartered accountant) will be holding an Estate Gifting Information Session for those who are interested in making provision for a charity in their will.

NFSA ANNUAL GENERAL MEETINGHolden Street Theatre 32 Holden St, Hindmarsh Thursday 22nd October, refreshments 5.30pm, AGM commences at 6pmMembers and supporters welcome – please note only financial members have voting rights.

2015 CHRISTMAS DINNER (INC. SILENT AUCTION)John Halbert Room – Adelaide Oval Saturday 5th December, 7.00pmCost: $89 NFSA SA Members / $109 Non-Members

(Non-Member cost includes a NFSA 2016 Membership)

RSVP: Friday 6th November by 5pmThree-course meal with K1 by Geoff Hardy wine, entertainment, Christmas Tree Hamper Prize Draw and Silent Auction.

Patron & Donor Liaison Dr Barbara Hardy AOPatron Dick Smith ACPatron Reg NelsonPresident Bob LottVice President David Moyle AMHon Secretary Susie HerzbergHon Treasurer Nicholas EdwardsCouncillors Dr David Hansman Dr Rob Morrison OAM Chris Reed Dr Bob Sharrad AM Suzanne Ridding Millie NichollsChief Executive Ian AtkinsonConservation Programs Mgr Alex Nankivell Conservation Ecologist Dr Greg JohnstonSEB Business Devl Mgr Caroline NefiodovasFundraising & Marketing Mgr Patrick MentzelCommunications Manager Lisa GellieAccountant Georgie FiedlerAdministration & Marketing Coordinator Natasha HarperWater For Nature (p/t) Craig Ferber Friends of NFSA President John Sibly AM

Nature Foundation SA Inc

32 Holden Street (PO Box 448), Hindmarsh SA 5007Phone: (08) 8340 2880 or 1300 366 191Fax: (08) 8340 2506

Email: [email protected]: www.naturefoundation.org.au

The views expressed in Nature Matters are not necessarily those of Nature Foundation SA Council or staff.12 www.naturefoundation.org.au

Credit: Marcus Pickett Mount Lofty Ranges Southern Emu-wren · Mount Lofty Ranges Southern Emu-wren...

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Transcript of Credit: Marcus Pickett Mount Lofty Ranges Southern Emu-wren · Mount Lofty Ranges Southern Emu-wren...