Fauna Management Procedure - Australia Pacific LNG · Fauna Management Procedure Q-LNG01-15-AP-...

Fauna Management Procedure

Q-LNG01-15-AP-0017 Australia Pacific LNG Upstream Phase 1 CSG Environment of 15

Release Notice

This document is available through the Australia Pacific LNG Upstream Phase 1 Project controlled

document system TeamBinder™. The responsibility for ensuring that printed copies remain valid

rests with the user. Once printed, this is an uncontrolled document unless issued and stamped

Controlled Copy.

Third-party issue can be requested via the Australia Pacific LNG Upstream Phase 1 Project

Document Control Group.

Document Conventions

The following terms in this document apply:

• Will, shall or must indicate a mandatory course of action

• Should indicates a recommended course of action

• May or can indicate a possible course of action.

Document Custodian

The custodian of this document is the Australia Pacific LNG Upstream Phase 1 Project - Project

Management Office Manager. The custodian is responsible for maintaining and controlling changes

(additions and modifications) to this document and ensuring the stakeholders validate any

changes made to this document.

Deviations from Document

Any deviation from this document must be approved by the APLNG Upstream Phase 1 Project –

Project Management Office Manager.


Q-LNG01-15-AP-0017 Australia Pacific LNG Upstream Phase 1 CSG Environment of 15

Table of Contents

1. Purpose .................................................................................. 4

2. Scope .................................................................................... 4

3. Responsibilities and Accountabilities ............................................... 4

4. Document references ................................................................. 4

5. Management Procedures .............................................................. 5

5.1. General Petroleum Activities .................................................... 5

5.1.1. Planning ......................................................................................... 5

5.1.2. Construction (other than Vegetation Clearing) .......................................... 6

5.1.3. Operation ....................................................................................... 6

5.1.4. Decommissioning .............................................................................. 7

5.2. Prior to Vegetation Clearing ..................................................... 7

5.3. During Vegetation Clearing ....................................................... 8

6. Fauna Handling ......................................................................... 8

7. Training ................................................................................. 9

8. Record Keeping ........................................................................ 9

Appendix A: Statutory Declaration ...................................................... 10

Appendix B: Snake Handling .............................................................. 11

Appendix C: Translocation Policy and Procedure (NSW) ............................. 12

Appendix D: Fauna Handling.............................................................. 13

Appendix E: Code – Wildlife Rehabilitation (DPI,VIC 2001) .......................... 14

Appendix F: Code – Care of orphaned, sick or injured protected animals (DERM, 2009) ................................................................................... 15

List of Tables

Table 1: Responsibilities and Accountabilities................................................................. 4

Table 2: Associated Document References ..................................................................... 5


Q-LNG01-15-AP- Australia Pacific LNG Upstream Phase 1 – CSG Environment of 15

1. Purpose

This Fauna Management Procedure has been revised in response to conditions (D27 to D33)

of Environmental Authority PEN101674310 that require:

• Preparation of a Fauna Management Procedure prior to construction commencing

• Certification of the Fauna Management Procedure

• Minimisation of risk to fauna (injury, harm or entrapment to wildlife and stock) when

carrying out petroleum activities

• Training and awareness of fauna management

• Controlled fauna handling.

This Fauna Management Procedure outlines the steps to be taken to minimise potential

impacts to fauna across Australia Pacific LNG Upstream assets and sub-projects.

The objective of this Fauna Management Procedure is to reduce the risk of trapping, injury

and possible death of fauna as a result of on-ground operations and activities within

Australia Pacific LNG gas fields.

Risk minimisation will be achieved through defined techniques, monitoring and awareness in

the planning, construction, operation and decommissioning phases of all petroleum

activities.

Certification of this Fauna Management Procedure is provided in Appendix A.

2. Scope

This procedure applies to the Upstream Project activities where there is a risk of trapping,

injury and / or fatalities to fauna.

3. Responsibilities and Accountabilities

The following personnel are responsible for the nominated tasks.

Table 1: Responsibilities and Accountabilities

Designation Responsibilities

Environment Manager CSG

Procedure issue and review

All Site Personnel Implementation of this procedure during normal course of work

Environmental Approvals and Strategy Team / HSSE

Provide support during implementation of the procedure on request of site personnel

4. Document references

This Fauna Management Procedure is one of a suite of documents developed to satisfy

Australia Pacific LNG project and approval requirements to ensure and demonstrate

compliance with statutory provisions.

The Fauna Management Procedure supports the Field Specific Construction Environmental

Management Plan.


Q-LNG01-15-AP-0017 Australia Pacific LNG Upstream Phase 1 – CSG Environment of 15

Table 2: Associated Document References

Document Number Title

Relevant Environmental Authority to the tenure

Q-LNG01-15-MP-0109 Environmental Constraints Planning and Field Development Protocol

October 2010 Species management program for tampering with animal breeding places

for least concern wildlife (October 2010).

Q-LNG01-15-MP-0113 Threatened Fauna (Species) Management Plans - Gas Fields

Q-LNG01-15-RP-0155 Species management program for tampering with EVNT, Special and

Colonial animal breeding places – Gas Fields

Relevant (Operational) Environmental Management Plan to the tenure

Q-LNG01-15-MP-0107 Australia Pacific LNG Remediation, Rehabilitation, Recovery and

Monitoring Plan

All document references are available via TeamBinder™.

5. Management Procedures

5.1. General Petroleum Activities

The following general management is proposed for the planning, construction, operation

and decommissioning of petroleum activities.

5.1.1. Planning

• Plan to avoid / minimise disturbance / adverse impacts (positioning of infrastructure) where

there are environmental (fauna) values (including Matters of National Environmental

Significance), or fragmented remnant vegetation in accordance with the Australia Pacific

LNG Environmental Constraints Planning and Field Development Protocol Q-LNG01-15-MP-

0109. This includes:

o Desktop environmental assessment

o Environmental mapping

o Pre-clearance field ecological assessment.

• Review the Australia Pacific LNG Threatened Fauna Management Plan (Gas Fields) Q-LNG01-

15-MP-0113, Australia Pacific LNG Threatened Fauna Management Plan Addendum Q-

LNG01-15-MP-0113_01 and the findings of the relevant pre-clearance ecological survey to

identify:

o The presence of species within the area of disturbance

o Species likely to be breeding

o Presence of preferred habitat and animal breeding places.

• Schedule works to minimise the length and time pits (excavations) and trenches are left

open, especially overnight, and works in areas with threatened breeding species (where

possible).

• Obtain the relevant approvals / permits for impacting fauna and associated habitat prior to

construction.



5.1.2. Construction (other than Vegetation Clearing)

• Comply with the requirements of the relevant approvals / permits relating to fauna

management during construction, including at minimum:

o Tenure specific Environmental Authority

o Species management program for tampering with animal breeding places of least

concern

o Species management program for tampering with animal breeding places that are

threatened, special or colonial breeders

Where the conditions of relevant approvals are inconsistent with this Fauna Management

Procedure, the conditions of relevant approval prevail.

• Install appropriate fencing around open pits / ponds / trenches given considerations to

fauna movement.

• Install egress ramps at intervals not exceeding 500m as stated in the Australian Pipeline

Industry Association (APIA) Code of Environmental Practice- Onshore Pipelines. In sensitive

areas, spacing at no more than 200m or less will be directed by the Environmental advisor.

All trench ends are to be ramped with batters of no less than 3:1 and lightly compacted to

ensure fauna do not struggle to escape due to loose surfaces. Construction monitoring to be

undertaken to ensure compliance with this procedure.

• Install fauna refuges in open trenches to allow smaller animals the opportunity to seek

shelter minimising the possibility of perishing.

• Store all pipes raised off the ground and/or capped at both ends to prevent fauna from

entering. Check strung pipe prior to welding/ joining with this to be capped or sealed at

either end upon completion of daily activities.

• Monitor daily, prior to starting work, to check for the presence of trapped fauna. Extra

monitoring is also required when backfilling commences to ensure no fauna is present within

the trench or pit.

• Stockpile microhabitat features such as rocks and fallen logs for use in rehabilitation of the

disturbed area.

• Implement mitigation and management in accordance with the Field Specific Construction

Environmental Management Plan that can dually benefit fauna survival and breeding success

including, but not limited to:

o Signage

o Limiting noisy activities and light spill within and adjacent to remnant vegetation /

essential habitat

o Controlling traffic speed, routes and travel periods

o Erosion and sedimentation planning

o Stock route movement and access restrictions

o Pest and weed management

o Fire management

o Rehabilitation.

5.1.3. Operation

• Water storage or holding ponds especially those lined with High Density Polyethylene

(HDPE)/ plastic or tarpaulin liners or un-lined ponds with batters less than 3:1 are to be

suitably fenced to prevent fauna entry and/or are to have fauna matting around the

banks to facilitate fauna egress.



• Implement mitigation and management in accordance with the tenure specific

Environmental Management Plan.

5.1.4. Decommissioning

• Undertake decommissioning of impacted areas to promote and maintain long term

recovery of affected environments in accordance with the Australia Pacific LNG

Remediation, Rehabilitation, Recovery and Monitoring Plan Q-LNG01-15-MP-0107.

5.2. Prior to Vegetation Clearing

• Undertake a pre-clear and grade walkthrough (pre-clear construction environmental

scout) between 40 and 20 business days prior to clearing by a suitably qualified

environmental officer to:

o Determine the suitability of habitat for threatened species or otherwise significant

fauna, including special least concern animals, special native animals and colonial

breeders, and if possible identify and locate populations of EVNT or otherwise

significant fauna or traces thereof (eg. burrows, scats, feeding signs, feathers)

o Identify and mark active breeding place locations including checking of hollow

bearing trees and logs, and setting up of the required buffer zone

o Identify areas which contain significant habitat features (eg. old growth woodlands,

shrublands, vine thickets, soaks)

o Identify important microhabitat features including but not limited to:

� Shrubby thickets

� Large, hollow logs

� Log or other debris piles

� Trees or logs with loose bark (dead or alive)

� Dense leaf litter or mulch

� Rock piles and outcrops

� Rock ledges, cavities, caves and shelters

� Hollow trees

� Spinifex clumps and grass tree groves

� Termite mounds

� Food plants known to be important to certain fauna (eg. Belah for glossy

black-cockatoos and Mistletoe for painted honeyeaters)

� Rock holes

� Temporary and permanent water sources (aquatic breeding habitat)

o Identify and mark significant habitat features for retention in situ and for salvaging

o Identify offset locations for relocation of (and salvaged) significant habitat features

and potential sites for (replacement) man-made breeding places

o Relocate recoverable inactive breeding places to adjacent undisturbed habitat.

• If breeding places are active, potentially suitable for threatened species or threatened

species are present, the Environmental Advisor is to determine whether the active or

suitable breeding place / structure is to be relocated or left in situ to allow the

breeding cycle to occur, and future breeding success of the place to be maintained.

• Tampering with animal breeding places is to be undertaken in accordance with the

relevant Species Management Program, dependent on the species.



5.3. During Vegetation Clearing

• Ensure a qualified fauna Spotter-Catcher is available during all clearing activities.

The fauna Spotter-Catcher and assisting Environmental Advisors are responsible for:

o Attending toolbox talks to increase staff awareness of relevant legislative and Code

of Practice obligations to follow good fauna management practices

o Searches for fauna that may be under direct threat from clearing operations and

may not necessarily be able to escape quickly e.g. koalas, echidnas, nesting birds

etc

o Searches of fallen vegetation for surviving fauna that was not previously observed

during pre-clear and grade walk-throughs

o Identifying large mature trees for retention (including tree protection zones) to

provide wildlife habitat for continued and future breeding success of an animal,

where possible unless their removal is warranted for safety or maintenance reasons.

Measures to prevent damage to trees identified for retention can include:

� Barriers

� Tying back branches

� Tree surgery

o Capturing / restraining any displaced or injured fauna and arranging for relocation,

rehabilitation or euthanasia as required

o Record keeping.

• Clear vegetation progressively in the direction of fauna habitat and away from

threatening processes (i.e. roads) or hostile environments (i.e. cleared land).

• Relocate salvageable significant habitat features / breeding places (with appropriate

machinery) avoiding:

o Additional adverse impacts on habitat at offset locations

o Destroying significant habitat features.

• Tampering with animal breeding places is to be undertaken in accordance with the

relevant Species Management Program, dependent on the species.

6. Fauna Handling

• Any snake relocation during clearing will be carried out by a suitably qualified person in

accordance with the relevant safety procedure presented in Appendix B.

• Any fauna handling pre and during clearing will be carried out by a fauna Spotter-Catcher in

accordance with the conditions of a current and relevant Rehabilitation Permit and at

minimum, comply with the Welfare and Safe handling procedures consistent with the Policy

and Procedure Statement No. 9 Policy for the Translocation of Threatened Fauna in New

South Wales (NPWS, 2001).

A copy of the Policy and Procedure Statement No. 9 is provided in Appendix C.

The safety procedure for fauna handling shall be complied with and is presented in

Appendix D.

• Fauna handling, if and when required during operations, shall be undertaken by a ‘suitably

qualified person’.

• Wildlife carers (volunteers and licensed) utilised in the rehabilitation of animal species are

to meet, at minimum, the requirements of the:

o Code of Practice for the Welfare of Wildlife During Rehabilitation (DPI Victoria,

2001)



o Code of Practice – Care of orphaned, sick or injured protected animals by wildlife

care volunteers (DERM Queensland, 2010)

Copies of the aforementioned Codes are provided in Appendix E and F respectively.

7. Training

All employees / contractors must be trained in this Fauna Management Procedure when they are involved in work areas that have a high potential for fauna entrapment or injury / death.

A record of training must be maintained and made available to the Environmental advisor or Manager on request.

8. Record Keeping

All fauna incidents involving entrapment, injury / death must be recorded in Origin Collective Intelligence System and notified to the environmental representative for reporting / notification and compliance purposes.



Appendix A: Statutory Declaration



Appendix B: Snake Handling

Snake Handling DO NOT attempt to handle snakes unless it’s safe to do so and the Environmental

Supervisor has given approval.

Safety glasses must be worn at all times in work areas.

Close fitting/protective clothing must be worn.

Sturdy footwear must be worn at all times in work areas.

Head protection must be worn.

Long trousers/jeans must be worn Gloves must be worn when handling.

Person handling snakes MUST be qualified.

PRE-OPERATIONAL SAFETY CHECKS 1. Check surrounding area to ensure no slip/trip hazards are present. 2. Ensure there is no danger from other snakes/environment. 3. Ensure that the Environmental Supervisor/ Safety Advisor is aware of the situation and your

location. 4. Do not handle snakes solo, you must have at least one other person with you. 5. Discuss Emergency Response Procedure before initiating handling of snake. 6. Ensure radio/phone communication is functional in case of emergency. 7. Ensure First Aid Kit and Snake Bite Kit is easily accessible.

OPERATIONAL SAFETY CHECKS

1. Use appropriate tools for operation. 2. Maintain awareness of snake at all times. 3. Maintain visual contact with other person(s) and communicate clearly. 4. Ensure snake is handled quickly and safely, avoiding injury to animal and yourself. 5. ALWAYS double-tie snake bag. 6. Relocate to an appropriate location and release quickly and quietly. 7. Ensure snake and yourself are out of further danger.

HOUSEKEEPING

1. Wash hands thoroughly after handling. 2. If snake bag is soiled, wash with disinfectant before using again. 3. Record activity in Fauna Inspection folder, maintained by the

Environment Group.

POTENTIAL HAZARDS

�� Bites �� Venom �� Disease

FORBIDDEN

� Attempting handling of snake without notification to Supervisor � Killing of snakes



Appendix C: Translocation Policy and Procedure (NSW)

Threatened Species Management

POLICY AND PROCEDURE STATEMENT No 9

POLICY FOR THE TRANSLOCATIONOF THREATENED FAUNA IN NSW

October 2001

Translocation of threatened fauna

NSW National Parks and Wildlife Service 1

1 Introduction

Translocation has been an effective strategy for the management of threatened animals invarious parts of the World. Some translocation programs have been undertaken and othersare planned for a range of threatened fauna in NSW and other parts of Australia. The NSWNational Parks and Wildlife Service (NPWS), through various licensing provisions, is theprimary regulator of this activity in NSW.

The Threatened Species Conservation Act 1995 (TSC Act) has an objective to prevent theextinction and promote the recovery of threatened species, populations and ecologicalcommunities in NSW. However, translocation should not be used as a substitute forprotection of high quality natural areas and conservation of wild populations in situ and themethods, risks and consequences associated with a proposal need to be thoroughlyassessed before any translocation is undertaken. Consequently, the NPWS has preparedthis policy to guide planning and implementation of translocation programs for threatenedfauna in NSW.

The Australian and New Zealand Environment Conservation Council (ANZECC) hasprepared the (Draft) ANZECC Policy for Translocation of Threatened Animals inAustralia (Appendix 1). The NSW policy follows and extends the draft ANZECC policyspecifically for use in NSW, except that the NSW policy currently excludes invertebrates.

The implementation of the policy in NSW is dependent on adequately preparedTranslocation Proposals (TP) for which guidelines are provided in Appendix 2. Alltranslocations covered by the policy must be licensed by the NPWS and all applications forlicences to translocate threatened fauna in NSW must be accompanied by a completed TP.

2 Definitions

For the purposes of this policy:

• Approved recovery plan is a recovery plan approved under Part 4 of the TSC Act.

• Biodiversity reconstruction programs are translocation programs which are justified bythe primary objective of re-introducing locally extinct taxa to selected areas for thepurposes of increasing biodiversity.

• Captive population means a population restrained by physical means, usually for thepurposes of captive breeding, education or display.

• Captive breeding programs are programs that involve the restraint of individuals by

physical means and the provision of conditions suitable for breeding. • Draft recovery plan is a recovery plan prepared under the TSC Act that has been

approved by the Director-General of National Parks and Wildlife for public exhibition.



• Emergency transfer programs are programs which are justified by the objective ofremoving individuals from a demonstrably unavoidable life-threatening situation in thewild.

• Endangered population is a population specified in Part 2 of Schedule 1 of the TSCAct.

• Endangered ecological community is an ecological community specified in Part 3 ofSchedule 1 of the TSC Act.

• Fauna are mammal, bird, reptile and amphibian species as defined in the National

Parks and Wildlife Act 1974.

• Habitat fencing is the construction of physical barriers around areas of suitable habitatfor native animals in order to meet a variety of objectives, including the exclusion ofexotic pest species.

• Host environment is the environment where translocated individuals are to be released.

• Introduction is the release of an organism outside its historically known range. • Managed populations means populations which require ongoing habitat management,

such as feral pest control or the provision of food or shelter, in order to survive. • Recovery team is a team which assists with the co-ordination of the recovery of a

threatened species, population or ecological community. • Receiving area is the area in which a population of a threatened species exists within the

host environment prior to receiving translocated (supplementary) individuals.

• Re-introduction is the release of an organism into part of its historically known rangefrom which it has become extinct.

• Re-stocking means the same as supplementation. • Source environment is the environment from which individuals are collected for the

purposes of translocation. • Source population is the population from which individuals are to be taken for

translocation.

• Species of animal includes any sub-species and taxon below sub-species as defined inthe TSC Act.

• Species recovery programs are programs which are part of the recovery planning

process under the TSC Act and may include actions to translocate animals which arejustified by the objective of assisting the recovery of the threatened species.



• Supplementation is the addition of individuals to an existing population of the samespecies.

• Threatened animals are those mammal, bird, reptile, amphibian and invertebrate speciesthat are listed in Schedule 1, Parts 1 and 4, and Schedule 2 of the TSC Act.

• Threatening processes are processes that threaten or may have the capacity to threatenthe survival or evolutionary development of species, populations or ecologicalcommunities as defined under the TSC Act.

• Translocation is the movement of living organisms from one area with free release in

another. There are three types of translocation: introduction, re-introduction andsupplementation.

• Translocation proposal (TP) is a document prepared in accordance with the policy,

prior to the commencement of the translocation program.

• TSC Act is the NSW Threatened Species Conservation Act 1995.

3 Scope

The policy applies to all translocations of threatened fauna within, into or from NSW. Thepolicy also applies to endangered populations of fauna. It will be useful to apply the policyto threatened invertebrates and to protected fauna, for example species recognised as partof an endangered ecological community and individual animals which have beenrehabilitated. This policy should be read in conjunction with the NSW WildlifeRehabilitation Policy 1999. The translocation of threatened fauna amounts to �harm� under the National Parks andWildlife Act 1974 (NP&W Act) which defines harm as being to: hunt, shoot, poison, net,snare, spear, pursue, capture, trap, injure or kill, but does not include harm by changingthe habitat of an animal. There are restrictions placed on the actions typically required for translocation.• All actions likely to �harm� a threatened species which is living free in the wild require

licensing where the action does not have approval under the Environmental Planningand Assessment Act 1979. Licences to �harm� may be issued under Section 120 of theNP&W Act.

• It is an offence to �liberate� a fauna species in NSW without a licence issued underSection 127 of the NP&W Act.

• In order to import fauna into NSW a licence under Section 126 of the NP&W Act isrequired.

An authorised officer of the NPWS can issue a single licence covering the provisions of�harm�, �liberate� and �import� under the NP&W Act. When the proponent is from withinthe NPWS, the licence authorising the translocation should be issued from a differentfunctional unit or Directorate of the NPWS.



All free living native fauna in NSW including threatened species are the property of theCrown as specified in Section 97 of the NP&W Act. NSW Agriculture has a legislative role in relation to animal welfare issues and the policydoes not obviate the need for Animal Ethics Committee approval under the AnimalResearch Act 1985. The policy should be read in conjunction with:• Prevention of Cruelty to Animals Act 1979• Prevention of Cruelty to Animals Regulation 1981• Animal Research Act 1985• Animal Research Regulation 1995• Exhibited Animals Protection Act 1986• Exhibited Animals Protection Regulation 1995

Summary of licensing process for the translocation of threatened fauna

1 Read the policy and relevant legislation.2 Contact the relevant NPWS Field Directorate Threatened Species Unit to discuss the

relevance of translocation to any draft or approved recovery plan for the species, threatabatement plan or other management plan.

3 Complete a translocation proposal (TP) in accordance with the guidelines in thepolicy.

4A Apply to the relevant NPWS Regional Directorate Office for a licence under theNP&W Act and include a completed TP.

4B Concurrently with NPWS application, apply for and obtain any other necessaryapprovals/licences from other government agencies.

5 NPWS licence is issued, with or without conditions, or it is rejected.6 If issued, translocation proceeds in accordance with the TP and the conditions of the

licence.NB The proponent must allow at least three months between submitting the licence

application and the commencement of the translocation program.

4 Background information

4.1 Biodiversity conservation Many factors have contributed to the extinction and decline of animal species in Australiasince European settlement. These include the removal and modification of nativevegetation and the introduction of competitive species (eg rabbits and goats) and predatorspecies (eg cats, foxes and mosquito fish). The protection of habitat and control of pestspecies are integral to biodiversity conservation. The distribution of native vegetation andanimals in NSW is fragmented and subject to a wide range of impacts including clearing,weed infestation and frequent fire. Threatened animal conservation in NSW will typically require one or more managementstrategies such as:• Protection of native vegetation



• Restoration and rehabilitation of degraded habitat• Pest control• Avoid introducing exotic diseases• Reservation of protected areas• Off-reserve conservation• Recovery planning• Threat abatement planning• Translocation programs• Captive breeding programs• Habitat supplementation• Habitat fencing

4.2 Justification for translocation of threatened fauna

The policy addresses four justifications for the translocation of threatened fauna: speciesrecovery, biodiversity reconstruction, emergency transfer and research. 4.2.1 Species recovery programs Species recovery translocation programs are a justifiable part of the recovery planningprocess currently being undertaken in NSW under the TSC Act. They are undertaken aspart of a broader co-ordinated recovery strategy directed toward the recovery of thethreatened species in the wild. 4.2.2 Biodiversity reconstruction programs Biodiversity reconstruction programs are area-based translocation programs that have beendeveloped as part of a land management program. A biodiversity reconstruction program islikely to be a justifiable outcome of successful threat abatement and habitat management.Biodiversity reconstruction programs may involve several species and are aimed at re-establishing the species that historically occupied an area, thereby extending their currentrange. Biodiversity reconstruction programs are not necessarily a part of and should notcompromise any species-specific recovery planning effort. 4.2.3 Emergency transfer programs The purpose of emergency transfer programs is to remove threatened fauna from ademonstrably life-threatening situation in the wild. These programs are generallyconcerned with the welfare of individuals but may also address the conservation of thespecies as a whole. The care and release of fauna in these programs will be subject to thesame animal welfare considerations as captive breeding strategies outlined in this policyand be guided by the NSW Wildlife Rehabilitation Policy. Situations where a case for emergency transfer may arise include where a remnantpopulation is in serious decline and the threat cannot be adequately ameliorated.Emergency transfers, by their nature, require an immediate response that may not allow fora detailed translocation program to be developed. The NPWS will advise applicants



regarding the preparation of translocation proposals and will expedite licence applicationsin such cases. The policy allows for the removal of individuals in an emergency situation and the holdingof these individuals while a translocation proposal is prepared. Release of captiveindividuals to a new host environment will only be allowed when a TP is prepared and thenecessary licences have been issued. This precautionary approach is necessary because therelease of fauna may result in their death or injury or damage to the host environment. Atthe time of release, translocated individuals may be particularly vulnerable to predation,injury or stress in their new environment. Examples of damage to the host environment areovergrazing and consequent degradation of native vegetation by released herbivores andloss of native fauna to released predators. In some cases, an option may be to re-releasefauna into the source environment following threat abatement or habitat rehabilitation. 4.2.4 Research programs The NPWS will encourage proponents of TPs to include scientific research as part oftranslocation programs which are justified under the above programs. In addition, theremay be species for which the factors causing local extinction are unknown but there is acase for re-introduction as part of a research program that aims to investigate these factors.These programs must demonstrate that they have a conservation benefit. 4.3 Types of translocation 4.3.1 Introduction Introduction for the purpose of conservation is the release of an organism outside itshistorically known range but within an appropriate habitat and bio-climatic region. Theintroduction of a species may be potentially harmful to other species currently existingwithin the host environment. Introductions may also alter the evolutionary development ofnatural ecosystems. Introduction may be appropriate where the translocated species is tofill a niche role where such a role is crucial to the proper functioning or sustainability ofthe host environment or the introduction is the last resort to save a species from extinctionand the potential benefits to the species outweigh any potential adverse impacts on the hostenvironment. Introductions will be licensed only in cases where the conservation reasonsare exceptionally strong. 4.3.2 Re-introduction Re-introduction is the release of an organism into part of its historically known range fromwhich it has become extinct. Re-introduction to establish new populations may be a veryimportant precaution against the possible extinction of a species which is confined to asmall number of isolated populations subject to continuing decline, ongoing threats or arestricted area of suitable habitat. Re-introduction may also be used for restoring a speciesto its historical range where it is unable or unlikely to disperse naturally and forbiodiversity reconstruction programs.



4.3.3 Supplementation (re-stocking) Supplementation is the addition of individuals to an existing population of the samespecies. Supplementation may be useful where the natural recovery of a small population isso slow as to leave the population vulnerable, to counter the adverse effects of inbreedingor to maintain genetic exchange between small isolated populations.

4.4 Strategies to complement translocation programs 4.4.1. Captive breeding Captive breeding programs are generally resource intensive. They involve the restraint ofindividuals by physical means and the provision of conditions suitable for breeding. Theaim of captive breeding as a component of a translocation program should be to establish asecure sample of the species with a view to the maintenance or re-establishment of viablepopulations in the wild. Captive breeding programs may also be used to improveunderstanding of the biology, behaviour and ecology of a species and to develop skills toassist with translocation. Captive breeding programs must address the risks associated with the health and welfare ofindividual animals. Usually, individuals are taken from the wild, bred in captivity toincrease or maintain numbers, then released as part of a species recovery program. Captivebreeding may require varying methods of intervention to produce suitable conditions forbreeding. These may include: regular feeding of animals with artificial or natural foods,artificial breeding techniques, partitioning of the population, control of diseases andvaccinations. In some circumstances, direct translocation without captive breeding may provide the bestchance of a species becoming established in the host environment. It avoids problemsassociated with long-term handling and confinement of animals and is generally more cost-efficient. Hence, the decision to captive breed rather than transfer individuals directly fromsource to host environments should be considered carefully. Translocations that must be endorsed include releases of captive-bred stock to the wild,including releases to areas that are fenced to exclude predators. Captive breeding programsthat do not involve release into the wild as part of the program are not considered in thispolicy. 4.4.2 Threat abatement In many previous translocation programs, the maintenance of translocated populations inthe wild has required a comprehensive threat abatement component to address current andpotential threats. The threat abatement component of a translocation program should aim tomanage the threatening process(es) so as to abate, ameliorate or eliminate its adverseimpacts on translocated individuals or populations. Threat abatement must be planned,resourced and undertaken for the duration of the threat. This may be a considerablecomponent of the cost of a translocation program.



Threat abatement may include control of vertebrate pests; retention and restoration ofnative vegetation, including removal of weeds; fire management, including re-establishment of a suitable fire regime; removal of sources of pollution; and exclusion ofpedestrians, vehicles or stock. 4.4.3 Habitat fencing Habitat fencing involves the construction of physical barriers around areas of habitatsuitable for native animals. Habitat fencing may be a critical component of a translocationprogram. Various methods of habitat fencing (eg. wire netting, electrified fences) may beused to achieve a variety of objectives including: selective exclusion of pest species,especially terrestrial predators; exclusion of large grazers and browsers; limitingcolonisation or re-colonisation by pest species; prevention of access by stock, pedestriansor vehicles; and creation of enclosures where native vegetation can regenerate. TPs willneed to consider the potential impacts of fencing, including the risk of injury or death tofauna in the host environment. 4.4.4 Habitat supplementation Species cannot be translocated into areas of their historically known range if the habitat isnow unsuitable. A habitat supplementation component of a translocation program involvesidentifying the limitations of potential host environments and then providing the necessaryresources to make the habitat suitable for the translocated species. Habitat supplementationmay include: provision of artificial nest sites, creation of watering points, creation ofrefuge sites and provision of food sources including planting of food trees. Habitatsupplementation should only be considered as a temporary component of a translocationprogram. The goal should be to provide habitat alternatives while suitable natural habitat inthe wild is restored or developed. 4.4.5 Community awareness, education and involvement Community awareness, education and involvement is encouraged where it does notcompromise the objectives of the translocation program. Translocation programs areusually linked to species recovery planning, threat abatement planning or other planningmechanisms which already include strategies for community awareness, education andinvolvement. These and other appropriate strategies should be incorporated into the TP.Community groups, including Aboriginal community groups, local to the source and hostenvironments will need to be identified and the appropriate levels of consultation withthose groups will need to be part of the community strategy component. 5 The policy

5.1 The aim of the policy is to guide the planning and implementation of translocationprograms for threatened fauna in NSW.

5.2 The policy follows the (Draft) ANZECC Policy for Translocation of ThreatenedAnimals in Australia and extends it specifically for use in NSW.



5.3 Translocation should not be used as a substitute for protection of high qualitynatural areas and conservation of wild populations in situ.

5.4 Translocation programs are generally long-term (years) and will require acommitment of long-term financial support.

5.5 Translocation programs should be consistent with the principles of ecologicallysustainable development.

5.6 Programs should use and contribute to the development of best practices fortranslocation of threatened fauna.

5.7 Each translocation program must be undertaken in accordance with a TranslocationProposal (TP) which has been prepared following the guidelines in the policy and islicensed by the NPWS.

5.8 The NPWS will arrange for each TP to be refereed by two experienced scientists;one of these will be from outside the proponent�s organisation and the organisationsissuing the approvals and licences for the proposed translocation.

5.9 All threatened fauna translocation programs covered by this policy must belicensed by the NPWS under the National Parks and Wildlife Act 1974. Licenceapplications must be accompanied by a TP.

5.10 Prior to granting a licence, the NPWS will give consideration to the adequacy ofthe TP, the referees� reports on the TP, the conservation benefits and theenvironmental, social and economic consequences of the TP.

5.11 Introductions will be licensed only in cases where the conservation reasons areexceptionally strong.

5.12 A TP will normally be proposing an action within a species recovery plan. TPsproposing a translocation not specified in a recovery plan must show that thetranslocation is part of an overall plan that will benefit the conservation of thethreatened species concerned.

5.13 A draft or approved recovery plan may contain an action proposing a translocationprogram but a TP and all appropriate licences will be required prior to thecommencement of the program.

5.14 The principles of conservation genetics relevant to effective population size,compatibility and hybridisation will be considered in the TP.

5.15 Translocations of threatened fauna should only be undertaken where: the removalof individuals is unlikely to pose an unjustifiable risk to the source population(except in the case of emergency transfers); the species being translocated is likelyto have no unjustifiable adverse impact, including the spread of disease or parasites,upon the host environment; where the factors which caused the species extinctionin the host environment have been identified and reversed and are unlikely to occurin the future (except in the case of research programs); other potential threats areunlikely to compromise the success of the translocation; and the host environmenthas suitable and sufficient habitat for the survival of the species.

5.16 To save a species from imminent extinction or for the welfare of individualanimals, an emergency transfer and the holding of individuals may be permittedwhile a translocation proposal is prepared. Release of captive individuals to a newhost environment will only be allowed when a TP is prepared and the necessarylicences have been issued.

5.17 Translocations covered by this policy include releases of captive-bred stock to thewild, including releases to areas that are fenced to exclude predators.



5.18 Translocation of threatened fauna should not be used as an ameliorative measurefor developments where such action is proposed in lieu of in situ conservation.

5.19 The policy will be reviewed as required, in particular when the ANZECC policy isfinalised.

6 The Translocation Proposal (TP)

The implementation of the policy is dependent on an adequately prepared translocationproposal (TP) for each proposed translocation program. Translocations of threatened faunahave the potential to affect both the source and host environments including thetranslocated animals and the fauna in the host environment. Programs need to be carefullyplanned, implemented, monitored and documented to ensure that they have the highestchance of success and to maximise their contribution to threatened species conservationand to the development of best practices for translocation. Knowledge of the biology,behaviour and ecology of the species and host environment will be integral to the successof a translocation program. However, few threatened fauna are well understood and manyare rare, little studied and poorly understood. Hence, each TP will need to weigh thepotential benefits to the species against the potential risks to the individual animals whichare translocated and to the host environment.

The TP must provide sufficient information about the species and the proposedtranslocation for an informed decision to be made whether to license or reject the proposal.It should review relevant knowledge about the biology, behaviour and ecology of thespecies, its past and present distribution and conservation status, and the urgency ofconservation action. Information presented should be supported by references or data.Opinions expressed about aspects of the conservation biology of the species should beclearly identified as such. The TP must identify the commitment to and parties responsiblefor monitoring, research and reporting during the program. The TP should be forwarded tothe NPWS with a licence application at least three months before the planned date of thetranslocation.

BRIAN GILLIGANDirector-General

Translocation of threatened fauna (ANZECC draft)


APPENDIX 1

(DRAFT) ANZECC POLICY FOR TRANSLOCATIONSOF THREATENED ANIMALS IN AUSTRALIA

SCOPE

This policy applies to translocations within Australia of threatened animals for the purposeof nature conservation; usually for the purpose of decreasing the probability of a speciesbecoming extinct. This policy applies to any animal species listed as threatened pursuant toCommonwealth or State legislation.

The Policy should be read in conjunction with The IUCN position statement ontranslocation of living organisms (IUCN 1987) and the IUCN guidelines for re-introductions (1998). [Note that the 1998 guidelines use terminology that differs from thedefinitions in the 1987 position statement. The terminology in this policy is based onIUCN (1987).]

DEFINITIONS

The following definitions apply:

"Introduction" means releasing or establishing an organism outside its historically knownnative range.

"Re-introduction" means the movement of an organism into part of its native range fromwhich it has disappeared or become extirpated in historic times as a result of humanactivities or natural catastrophe.

"Re-stocking" means the movement of numbers of animals with the intention of buildingup the number of individuals of that species in an original habitat or of introducinggreater genetic diversity.

"Translocation" means the movement of living organisms from one area with free releasein another. Translocation includes introductions, re-introductions and re-stocking.

�Translocation Proposal� means a written statement of intent to carry out a translocation inAustralia covering all matters provided in the Appendix.

NEED FOR A POLICY

The IUCN Position Statement recommends, inter alia, that Governments should formulatenational policies on translocation of wild species.

Translocation is becoming an effective and popular method of research into andmanagement of threatened species. Translocations have already been carried out, or arebeing contemplated, for mammals, birds, reptiles, frogs, freshwater fish and insects. Forsome species, translocations are likely to be the best or the only way of preventingextinction. In much of Australia, translocation is the only method available forreconstructing former communities where elements have been lost because of disturbances.Translocation can also be used for preserving or enhancing genetic diversity at infra-specific levels.



A national policy relating to translocations of threatened animals is needed because:

1. Recovery Plans are increasingly specifying actions throughout a species' former range,not in one State or Territory. A national policy will assist scientists and managersprepare background information in support of applications and help decision-makers indifferent jurisdictions consider applications.

2. Translocations have the potential to affect existing environments. As is the case for any

proposed action that may have a significant effect on the environment, a clear benefitand impact statement should be available.

POLICY

1. All translocations within Australia, except as provided below, shall follow theprinciples laid down by IUCN (1987) and take note of the re-introduction guidelinesprovided by IUCN (1998). Translocations that must be approved include releases fromcaptive-bred stock to the wild, including releases to areas that are fenced to excludepredators.

2. Proposed translocations will be approved only after review of a "TranslocationProposal" (TP - see Appendix 1) prepared by the proponent and covering all relevantmatters, including the effects of the proposed translocation on the conservation valuesof the target area. (This process should complement, not duplicate, any existing impactassessment procedure required by legislation.) States and Territories will refer TPs toat least two experienced scientists for refereeing; one of these shall be from outside theorganisations issuing the permits or licences authorising the proposed activity. Therelevant wildlife authority(ies) will then consider the TP, the referees' comments andany other submissions before deciding whether to issue a permit.

3. A TP will normally be proposing an action within a species Recovery Plan. TPsproposing a translocation not specified in a Recovery Plan must show that thetranslocation is part of an overall plan that will benefit the conservation of thethreatened species concerned.

4. The introduction of species to habitats or locations from which they have not been

recorded in historical times will not be approved unless there are exceptionally strongconservation reasons for so doing. Proposed introductions to islands must alsodemonstrate that the proposed introduction is more important than, or will have noeffect on, possible translocations of other threatened taxa to that island.

5. Where there is more than one possible source for the animals to be translocated, TPs

will provide reasons why a particular population was chosen above others. Where thereis more than one potential target site, the TP must evaluate the alternatives and providereasons for choosing the recommended site.

6. Translocations from islands to the mainland will not normally be approved if the

species still exists on the mainland. TPs for translocations from islands to the mainland



must review evidence for the extinction of that taxon on the mainland or provide over-riding reasons for the introduction of an island population.

7. TPs will consider the principles of conservation genetics when proposing

translocations. In particular, TPs will discuss the number of individuals to betranslocated in relation to effective population size.

8. TPs will review the causes of the original local extinction of the taxon at the target site

and provide evidence that the cause(s) has been removed or ameliorated. 9. Where an animal (or eggs) is being taken into captivity for release within one year, a

TP should be approved before the animal is taken from the wild. Where several yearsbreeding are proposed, the TP should be approved before the release.

10. Detailed records of all translocations and the fate of the translocated animals shall be

kept and lodged with the wildlife authority(ies) issuing the permits.

REFERENCES

IUCN (1987). The IUCN position statement on translocation of living organisms.Introductions, re-introductions and re-stocking. IUCN, Gland, Switzerland.

IUCN (1998). IUCN Guidelines for re-introductions. Prepared by the IUCN/SSC Re-introduction Specialist Group. IUCN, Gland, Switzerland.



ANZECC DRAFTMatters to be covered by a Translocation Proposal (TP)

The TP must provide sufficient information about the species and the proposedtranslocation for an informed decision to be made whether to approve or reject theproposal. It should review relevant knowledge about the species' biology and ecology, itspast and present distribution and conservation status, and the urgency of conservationaction. Information presented should be supported by references or data. Opinionsexpressed about aspects of the species' conservation biology should be clearly identified assuch. The TP should be forwarded the relevant State/Territory agency at least three monthsbefore the planned date of the translocation.

The TP should contain the following information.

1. Summary (maximum of one page).

2. Name and affiliation of proponent.

3. Background. Define the taxon to be translocated, provide information on thespecies' former and present distribution, its conservation status, population trends,its biology and ecology. Provide a brief outline of the recovery plan/programshowing how the proposed translocation is integral to overall recovery. If there isno recovery plan, explain how proposed translocation will benefit the taxon

4. The Translocation. Discuss why the translocation is being proposed and provide adetailed description of the proposal, including post-release monitoring. Define thegoal/objective of the translocation, eg, re-establishing populations,supplementation, increasing genetic variability, etc, how many animals to betranslocated and over what time frame. List all organisations/expertise involved inproposed translocation. Include the following information:

(a) Provide details of the status of the land at the translocation site and provideevidence of the agreement of the controlling body or owner.

(b) Where there is more than one possible source for the organisms to betranslocated, TPs will provide reasons why a particular population waschosen above others. Where there is more than one potential target site, theTP must evaluate the alternatives and provide reasons for choosing therecommended site.

(c) TPs proposing introductions must demonstrate that opportunities for re-introductions of the species do not exist, that the impact of the introducedspecies on the natural environment is unlikely to be significant, that thereare exceptionally strong conservation reasons for the introduction, and/orthat available distributional data (including sub-fossil records) orbioclimatic modelling suggest that the species probably occurred in thearea. TPs proposing introductions to islands must also demonstrate that theproposed introduction is more important than, or will have no effect on,possible translocations of other threatened taxa to that island.



(d) TPs for translocations from islands to the mainland must provide strongevidence that the taxon, or one with which it might hybridise, does not nowexist on the mainland, or provide over-riding nature conservation reasonsfor the introduction of an island population.

(e) TPs will consider the principles of conservation genetics when proposingtranslocations. In particular, TPs will discuss the number of individuals tobe translocated in relation to maintaining genetic variability. TPs will statewhether it is proposed to mix individuals from more than one populationand, if so, provide evidence that this will benefit conservation ofbiodiversity.

(f) When re-introductions are being proposed, TPs will review the causes of theoriginal local extinction of the taxon at the target site and provide evidencethat the cause(s) has been removed or ameliorated and will continue to becontrolled.

(g) For translocations of arthropods, a life-table framework (immaturemortality, adult longevity etc.) should be prepared and an assessment shouldbe made whether colonies of any generalist predators occur near the releasesite.

(h) Details of post-release monitoring must include a commitment to closelymonitor the fate of a significant proportion of the translocated animals in theshort term and the resulting population in the medium to long term. Definewhat criteria will be used to measure success and when the proposedtranslocation, if successful, is likely to be concluded.

5. Funding. Identify the source of funds for the translocation and demonstrate thatlong-term management resources (in terms of the proposed time-frame of thetranslocation) for the translocated population are available and committed.Normally, this will be a commitment from the land manager.

6. Animal Ethics Committee approval. Provide evidence that the proposal has beensubmitted to and approved by an Animal Ethics Committee operating according tothe �Code of practice for the care and use of animals in research in Australia�(National Health and Medical Research Council and Commonwealth Scientific andIndustrial Research Organisation).

7. Endorsement by proponent and proponent's organisation. Endorsement bypartner organisations and other stakeholders should be provided where appropriate.

8. References.

9. Attachments. Include the Interim Recovery Plan or Recovery Plan, Animal EthicsCommittee approval, copies of supporting documents, funding approvals, etc.


APPENDIX 2

GUIDELINES FOR THE CONTENTS OF ATRANSLOCATION PROPOSAL

(Interim)THREATENED FAUNA - NSW

Table of Contents

Title

Summary

1. Proponent2. Outline for the translocation3. Background biology and ecology4. Source population5. Host environment6. Monitoring and research7. Component strategies8. Community awareness, education and involvement9. Resource commitment10. Social and economic issues11. References12. Endorsements13. Licences

Appendices

A. Associated plansB. Letters of endorsementC. Referees reports

NPWS report on TP

Allow at least 3 months between licence application and proposed starting date of the program

Translocation of threatened fauna (TP Guidelines)


Title

The Translocation Proposal (TP) will generally be titled �Translocation Proposal for[species] from [source location] to [host location]�.

Summary

The TP will include a summary (maximum of one page).

1. Proponent

The TP will give the name, qualifications, experience and affiliation of the proponent/s.

2. Outline for the project

2.1 The legal status of the species throughout its range should be explained.2.2 The overall objective and all specific objectives of the program should be stated.2.3 The TP should give criteria for success of the program, including targets and

timeframes to achieve key specific objectives.2.4 The TP must specify whether the translocation is justified as a part of a species

recovery program, biodiversity reconstruction program or an emergency transferprogram. The relevant plan/s or parts of plan/s should be cited and appended.

2.5 The TP must specify whether the type of translocation is to be an introduction, re-introduction or supplementation.

2.6 The TP must state the consequences of not proceeding with the proposed translocationprogram.

2.7 The potential risks and strategies for dealing with them should be outlined.2.8 If the translocation is staged, discuss the strategy for dealing with failure at any one of

the stages.

3. Background biology and ecology

The following factors must be considered:3.1 Taxonomy of the species.3.2 Distribution of the species in NSW and across its range, including current and

historical range.3.3 The relevant ecological requirements of the species, such as life-cycle stages (for

invertebrates) reproductive biology, population dynamics, social behaviour, groupcomposition, home range size, shelter and food requirements, foraging behaviour,predators and diseases.

3.4 Known and potential threats.3.5 The success of previous translocation programs of the same or analogous species.



4. Source environment and population

The following information, if relevant, should be provided:4.1 Site tenure.4.2 Consideration of alternative source populations.4.3 The proposed schedule and rationale for the translocation/s, including timing, numbers,

age, sex ratio, genetic information.4.4 An assessment of the impact of the removal of individuals upon the source population

and environment and possible ameliorative measures.4.5 The methods of capture and transfer to the host environment.

5. Host environment

The following information, if relevant, should be provided:5.1 Site tenure and level of conservation protection.5.2 Consideration of alternative host environments.5.3 Whether the site is part of the historically known range of the species.5.4 For introductions, the conservation reasons why the species cannot be conserved

satisfactorily within its historically known range.5.5 How the habitat requirements of the species will be met and what rehabilitation is

required prior to release.5.6 How known and potential threats to the species will be managed, including the likely

causes of the historical decline and/or local extinction of the species from the hostenvironment.

5.7 For supplementation, the likely consequences of the translocation on the geneticcomposition and viability of the host population.

5.8 An estimation of the dispersal of individuals and the carrying capacity of the habitatand whether it is considered likely to sustain a viable population of the species.

5.9 Potential environmental impacts of the species upon the host environment andsurrounding ecosystems, including hybridisation and the spread of disease or parasites,and possible ameliorative measures.

5.10 The proposed management strategy if the translocation results in the establishmentof a population that exceeds the carrying capacity of the habitat or the species spreadsto areas substantially beyond the host environment.

6. Monitoring and research

The TP should provide summaries of the following:6.1 Methods and rationale for monitoring in the first year post-release and reporting the

fate of a significant proportion of the individuals translocated.6.2 Methods and rationale for medium-term monitoring (1-3 years) and subsequent longer-

term monitoring.6.3 Methods and rationale for undertaking particular research.6.4 How the monitoring data will be used to assess the success of the program, including

impacts upon the source and host environments.6.5 How the program will inform the management of the species throughout its range.6.6 How the program will contribute to the knowledge of best practice threatened species

management.



7. Component strategies

The details of all component strategies should be given, including:7.1 A strategy in the event that the species fails to establish in the host environment.7.2 For captive breeding components, discuss the need for captive breeding.7.3 For captive breeding components not covered by Department of Agriculture approval

under the Exhibited Animals Protection Act, discuss:7.3.1 the proposed record keeping and genetic management techniques7.3.2 the design and standards of housing facilities, including use of display versus

off-display facilities7.3.3 special requirements likely to be needed by the species (for example diet,

prevention of habituation to humans, maintenance of natural behaviours)7.3.4 release strategies to optimise the chances of survival in the wild7.3.5 disease risk strategies

7.4 For habitat fencing components, discuss:7.4.1 the need for a fence7.4.2 the proposed size of the area to be fenced and fence type in relation to the

ecology of the translocated species7.4.3 non-target impacts, particularly barrier effects7.4.4 the number of years that the fence will be maintained

7.5 The consequences of not utilising component strategies, particularly a threat abatementcomponent.

8. Community awareness, education and involvement

Outline the strategy for community awareness, education and involvement in thetranslocation program, including:8.1 Links to community components of species recovery planning, threat abatement

planning and other planning mechanism.8.2 Issues related to restricting community access so that the objectives of the translocation

program are not compromised.8.3 Identification of community groups, including indigenous groups, local to the source

and host environments and the appropriate levels of consultation with those groups.

9. Social and economic considerations

Summarise the social and economic factors which have been considered in relevant speciesrecovery planning, threat abatement planning and other planning documents. Discuss allissues related to adverse social and economic effects.

10. Resource commitments

The budget requirements of the program must be itemised, including component strategies,and the source/s of funds and in-kind support identified. The TP must demonstrate thatadequate resources are committed for the period of the program. Discuss the projectedresources required to manage the population after the completion of the translocationprogram and identify those responsible and their level of commitment.



11. References

Literature cited in the TP will be referenced in an appropriate scientific style.

12. Endorsements

The proponent must attach letters of endorsement from all stakeholders and partnerorganisations, including the landholders and land managers of the source and hostenvironments and the recovery team (if no draft or endorsed recovery plan).

13. Licences

The proponent must complete the first three columns of the table. Licensing of thetranslocation will be conditional upon the granting of all necessary licences/approvals forthe period of the program.

Licence/approval Authority Date ofapplication

Licence/approvalnumber and period

of currencyNP&W Act licence/s NPWS

Animal Care and EthicsCommittee approval

As appropriate: NPWSor University, etc

Other: (eg ABBBSbanding licence; EAPAct licence)

As appropriate:Environment Australia;NSW Agriculture, etc

Appendices

A. Associated plans

The proponent will attach all appropriate recovery plans, draft recovery plans, threatabatement plans or other management plans or relevant parts of these plans.

B. Letters of endorsement

Attach letters of endorsement as per Section 12.

C. Referees reports

The NPWS will attach two referees� reports.

NPWS report on the TP will be attached


Q-LNG01-15-AP-0017 Australia Pacific LNG Upstream Phase 1 – CSG Environment Page 13 of 15

Appendix D: Fauna Handling

Fauna Handling DO NOT attempt to handle animals unless it’s safe to do so and the Environmental

Supervisor has given approval.

Safety glasses must be worn at all times in work areas.

Close fitting/protective clothing must be worn.

Sturdy footwear must be worn at all times in work areas.

Head protection must be worn.

Rings and jewellery must not be worn.

Gloves must be worn when handling.

There must be at least two people present when handling animals.

PRE-OPERATIONAL SAFETY CHECKS 1. Check surrounding area to ensure no slip/trip hazards are present. 2. Ensure there is no danger from other animals/environment. 3. Ensure that the Environmental Supervisor/ Safety Advisor is aware of the situation and your

location. 4. Do not handle animals solo, you must have at least one other person with you. 5. Discuss Emergency Response Procedure before initiating handling of animal. 6. Ensure radio communication is functional in case of emergency. 7. Ensure First Aid Kit is easily accessible.

OPERATIONAL SAFETY CHECKS

1. Maintain awareness of animal at all times. 2. Maintain visual contact with other person(s) and communicate clearly. 3. Use appropriate tools/equipment for operation. 4. Ensure animal is handled firmly and safely, avoiding injury to animal and yourself. 5. Relocate to an appropriate location and release quickly and quietly. 6. Ensure animal and yourself are out of further danger.

HOUSEKEEPING

1. Contact Wildlife carers if required. 2. Wash hands thoroughly. 3. Record activity in Fauna Inspection folder, maintained by the

Environment Group.

POTENTIAL HAZARDS

�� Bites �� Venom �� Kicks �� Scratches �� Eye injuries �� Entanglement

�� Ticks �� Disease

FORBIDDEN

� Attempting handling of animals without notification to Supervisor � Killing of animals



Appendix E: Code – Wildlife Rehabilitation (DPI,VIC 2001)

Code of Practice for the Welfare of Wildlife During RehabilitationNote Number: AG0976

Published: October 2001

Introduction

The purpose of the Revised Code of Practice for the Welfare of Wildlife during Rehabilitation (the Code) is to

ensure the welfare of animals undergoing all stages of wildlife rehabilitation. It also provides an ethical guide to

wildlife rehabilitators on wildlife rehabilitation and outlines responsibilities of those involved. The Code is

incorporated under the Prevention of Cruelty to Animals Act 1986.

•

Wildlife rehabilitation is defined as caring for injured, sick, or orphaned native animals and providing access to

veterinary assessment and treatment where required, then nursing care and support, with the goal of restoring

them to their natural condition and habitat.

•

For the purposes of the Code, wildlife is defined as any animal of a vertebrate species, other than humans or

fish, which is indigenous to Australia or its territorial waters. It is an offence to keep pest animals (as defined

under the Catchment and Land Protection Act 1994) and these must be humanely euthanased if brought to a

shelter. Introduced species should also be humanely euthanased. Domestic animals such as dogs and cats

must be taken to a pound.

•

All wildlife in the state of Victoria is protected under the Wildlife Act 1975. A Wildlife Shelter Permit (permit) is

required from the Department of Sustainability and Environment (DSE) for the purposes of wildlife

rehabilitation. Potential wildlife rehabilitators need to demonstrate that they have acquired appropriate training,

either through accredited courses or recognised informal training seminars, or can show acquisition of the

required knowledge through prior experience or employment.

•

Principles

Wildlife rehabilitation is generally viewed by the community as an ethical obligation to assist wild animals found

in pain or distress, particularly if as a result of human interference (for example road trauma, pet predation, or

oil spills).

•

The work of wildlife rehabilitators contributes to conservation through research, community education and

promotion of a respect for animals. However, rehabilitation has limited benefit for biodiversity conservation, as

the majority of animals treated in shelters are common species and low survival rates upon release have been

reported for some species.

•

The primary goal of wildlife rehabilitation is to facilitate animal welfare both during the rehabilitation process

and upon release. Animals must be euthanased if they are considered unlikely to recover sufficiently to return

to the wild, or if there is uncertainty regarding a release site (for example, if the factors that led to the original

condition were to pose an unacceptable risk to the animal again upon its release).

•

Animals should be returned to suitable habitat in the general vicinity from which they were collected

(exceptions may be ocean going seabirds or migratory species). Habitats have a carrying capacity for particular

•

Page 1 of 11Wildlife during rehabilitation - Department of Primary Industries

10/10/2011http://new.dpi.vic.gov.au/agriculture/about-agriculture/legislation-regulation/animal-welfare-l...

species, and most occupied sites tend to function at capacity level. The relocation of wildlife to new areas is not

permitted where there is the potential for genetic problems, the spread of disease, or competition for food and

shelter with the existing wild population.

Captivity can place significant stress on wildlife. Extended periods in captivity can result in loss of survival

skills, and the risk that the animal’s living space in the wild will be occupied by another member of the species.

Wild animals are opportunistic and new individuals will rapidly attempt to fill available niches. Wildlife

rehabilitators should aim to release adult animals from shelters as quickly as possible. A life in captivity is not a

reasonable option for rehabilitated animals, other than in exceptional circumstances.

•

The hand rearing of juveniles needs particular consideration. Hand reared animals may lack the survival and

behavioural skills of those born in the wild, and may be disadvantaged when competing for food, shelter and

territory. Juveniles do not have an established home range to return to when raised in captivity, and familiarity

with humans and domestic pets can result in an increased susceptibility to predation.

•

Before attempting to rehabilitate an animal in an area where population reduction is currently authorised for

that species, the long-term welfare of the individual must be carefully considered. The stress of the treatment

must be justified in view of habitat suitability, resource availability and potential for future population

management at the release site.

•

A wildlife rehabilitator should strive to achieve high standards of animal care through knowledge and an

understanding of the field. Continuing efforts must be made to keep informed of current rehabilitation

information, methods and regulations. Membership of animal welfare and wildlife rehabilitation organisations is

encouraged.

•

To facilitate optimum results for animal welfare, rehabilitators are also encouraged to cooperate in the sharing

of information and resources. Some shelters may have better facilities or experience with certain species, or

there may be the opportunity to rehabilitate an animal elsewhere in the company of its own species.

•

Rehabilitators should acknowledge their limitations and enlist the assistance of a veterinarian or a more

experienced rehabilitator when appropriate.

•

Case assessment

Upon collection, animals must be assessed accurately and without delay by a person who is knowledgeable in

the particular requirements of the species (a veterinarian if possible, or an experienced wildlife rehabilitator). At

all stages of the rehabilitation process, animal welfare should be the primary objective.

•

Where the animal is found to be suffering from significant pain, distress, trauma or disease that cannot be

relieved, it must be promptly euthanased.

•

Where the animal would not survive without extended treatment or surgery, and is unlikely to recover

sufficiently to return to the wild, it should be promptly euthanased.

•

Where there is uncertainty regarding the suitability of a release site (see below for details) the animal should be

humanely euthanased.

•

If there is a reasonable expectation that the animal can be successfully rehabilitated and released to its own

environment, the wildlife rehabilitator should ensure that he/she has the capacity to provide for the captive

needs of the animal. For example, experience with the particular species, suitable housing, and access to

species specific social groups where relevant.

•

Conditions which could preclude successful rehabilitation and release include:•

Loss of limbs or function of limbs, including tails•

Permanent vital sensory loss (hearing, sight, smell, feeding)•

Untreatable infectious disease•

Permanent damage to the nervous system•

Inability to adjust to temporary captivity•



Chronic ill health•

Imprinted behaviour patterns.•

The following considerations are important when assessing a release site:•

The release site should be suitable habitat in the general vicinity from which the animal was originally collected.

For instance, if an animal were found injured on a highway, an area of bushland adjacent to the highway would

be a suitable release site. Exceptions may be ocean going seabirds or migratory species.

•

There should be an available home range for the animal upon release. The sooner an animal can be

rehabilitated and released back to its own environment, the more likely its place within the home range will not

have been reoccupied.

•

If there are limited resources available at the release site (for example, due to large numbers of conspecifics or

vegetation removal), the cost of release to the existing population must be justified in terms of competition for

food and shelter.

•

The factors that lead to the original injury or condition must not pose an unacceptable risk to the animal again

upon release (for example, if there are unusually high numbers of introduced predators at the site).

•

Continual reassessment during the process of rehabilitation is required, to ensure it remains in the best

interests of the animal and that eventual release to the wild remains likely. If it becomes evident during the

rehabilitation process that successful return to the wild is unlikely, the animal should be promptly euthanased.

•

Exceptional circumstances where a threatened species is involved should be discussed with an officer from

DSE.

•

Veterinary care

The Veterinary Practice Act 1997 precludes non-veterinarians from practising veterinary surgery or veterinary

medicine. Wildlife rehabilitators may only administer first aid. In cases where veterinarians are not able to examine

the animal directly, the permit holder should make every effort to obtain veterinary advice.

Surgical procedures that would result in the animal being unreleasable are inappropriate (for example, pinioning,

amputating, declawing, or debeaking), with the exception of threatened species which may be offered to a zoological

institution for breeding purposes. In such instances, advice from an DSE officer should be obtained.

Euthanasia

Wherever possible, a veterinarian should carry out euthanasia. Euthanasia by barbiturate overdose must only be

carried out by a veterinarian. In exceptional circumstances where a wildlife rehabilitator is required to perform

emergency euthanasia, a method appropriate for the species and circumstances should be employed to ensure

minimal pain and suffering. If rehabilitators are not familiar with suitable euthanasia techniques for the particular

species involved, every effort must be made to obtain expert advice in this regard.

Quarantine and disease control

Stressed animals are more susceptible to expressing and contracting infectious disease. It is important to prevent the

spread of infectious disease amongst animals brought into captivity for the purposes of rehabilitation.

Upon arrival all animals should be isolated in geographically separate areas until their health status can be

determined. Sick animals should be kept in quarantine conditions throughout the period of their rehabilitation. It is

recommended that animals of different species are kept separate at all times.

Regular cleaning and disinfection with hospital grade disinfectant should be applied to enclosures and equipment.

Areas known to be infected must be serviced last and should not drain into ‘clean’ areas.



Facilities for treatment, food preparation and washing of bedding should be separate from those used by humans.

Contaminated waste and carcases should be disposed of promptly, hygienically and in accordance with local Council

by-laws or community standards.

Zoonoses

A number of diseases can be transmitted to humans from wild animals. These diseases are called ‘zoonoses’, and

some can be fatal. All wildlife rehabilitators should respect the potential for disease transmission and use sound

preventative measures.

Some commonly occurring zoonotic diseases are: Ornithosis (Psittacosis), Salmonellosis, Tuberculosis,

Leptospirosis, Yersiniosis, Pasteurellosis, Lyssa Virus, fungal and yeast infection (including ringworm and thrush),

and parasitic skin diseases (scabies, lice and ticks).

Husbandry

Native animals in wildlife shelters have certain basic requirements if adequate welfare standards are to be

maintained:

Food - clean and fresh, and the appropriate type, quality and quantity for the species.•

Water - fresh and changed daily.•

Protection from•

noise•

disease•

unnecessary human contact•

the weather. During the hospitalisation stage, animals require protection from wind, rain and extremes of

temperature and humidity (however, toward the end of the rehabilitation process some re-acclimatisation to

outside conditions may be necessary).

•

harassment by other animals and predation – contact, sight, sound and smell. If a wild animal becomes familiar

with the sight, smell or sound of dogs and cats, it may not recognise them as dangerous once it is released.

•

Clean air - adequate ventilation, free from excessive dust, air-borne pathogens and noxious gases.•

Security - mental and physical. A place to hide and avoid stressful experiences, including dark areas

(particularly for nocturnal species), and a place to sleep and feed effectively. Enclosures must be escape proof

and safe enough to prevent the animal from injuring itself.

•

Space - sufficient room to avoid initiation of “stress” behaviours. Refer to Minimum Cage Sizes in the Appendix.•

Lighting - access to sunlight or ‘natural’ spectrum artificial light. The photoperiod should mimic external

conditions.

•

Supervision - this is necessary to monitor and manage the case. Stress should be minimised, and ideally the

animal should be unaware of the supervision.

•

Hygiene - daily cleaning of enclosures and feed and water containers. Regular water changes for aquatic

species to prevent contamination of the animal’s captive environment. Pens should be well drained.

•

Housing and enclosure design

Accommodation plays an important part in the rehabilitation process. Each case must be assessed individually, and a

sound knowledge of the behaviour of the species is necessary in order to provide effective housing. This information

should be sought at the outset.



Housing should be provided in such a way as to:

Fulfil the animal’s needs throughout the shelter period.•

Meet quarantine requirements.•

Enable regular (daily) inspection.•

Minimise stress and handling.•

Prevent familiarity with domestic pets, and unnecessary human contact.•

Allow rehabilitation in social groups if applicable.•

Enable training for survival in the wild where necessary (eg. cage furniture to replicate elements of the natural

environment).

The type of housing varies with the species and with the stage of rehabilitation. Two main types of housing

should be provided at shelters:

•

Hospitalisation - where an intensive non-natural environment is required for more seriously injured animals.

This housing should allow wildlife to stretch out comfortably, but restrict their activity enough so it is not

necessary to chase the animal each time treatment or inspection is needed. The enclosure should be kept

dark, quiet and at a constant temperature suited to the animal’s age and species.

•

Standard Accommodation - for the recovery period during rehabilitation. See Recommended Minimum Cage

Sizes in the Appendix (note that larger enclosures than those specified may be necessary where an animal is

regaining fitness or developing survival skills). This type of housing should be clean, quiet and provide

appropriate shelter and security for the particular species (for instance, nest boxes, leafy branches, hollow logs

or straw for burrowing).

•

Feeding

Clean, fresh food of the appropriate quality and quantity should be provided. This food should meet the animal’s

dietary and nutritional requirements, and be provided in a manner suitable for the species (for instance, fruit spiked

on branches for possums, or worms scattered through leaf litter for Magpies). Fresh water should be provided and

changed daily.

Good feeding management is essential for:

Rapid recovery and maximum healing potential.•

Growth in young animals.•

Maximum development of natural behaviour and survival techniques.

Captive diets should approximate the natural diet of the species to minimise the impact of captivity and to

stimulate normal digestive function. Knowledge of the normal feeding habits of the species is necessary.

•

Handling

Most animals taken to shelters are frightened, physiologically stressed, mentally disoriented and may be sick, injured

or in pain. Catching and handling injured wildlife should be done quickly and expertly to avoid further stress or injury.

Rough handling can easily injure small animals. The housing, feeding and cleaning of animals should be done gently

and efficiently, with the least disturbance possible.

Care should be taken to minimise the risk of injury to handlers by animals attempting to defend themselves or

escape. Appropriate protective clothing should be worn where necessary (eg some species should only be handled

with gloves to prevent injury to the rehabilitator and cross infection).

It is vital that wild adult animals are not tamed during rehabilitation, as this reduces their chance of survival upon

release. Although a tame animal may possess most other living skills, it behaves differently to a wild animal. It is



often not accepted by members of its own species, and is more susceptible to predation. Animals are not suitable for

release unless they display instinctual fear and avoidance towards humans and domestic pets.

Release procedures

Procedures for the release of an animal are most important and must be carefully planned. The long-term survival of

the animal is dependent in part on the release being conducted efficiently and effectively.

An animal that has been in captivity for a short period of time (up to two weeks) will need little preparation for release.

If it has had minimal handling and a suitable diet and enclosure during rehabilitation, the animal should be in

reasonable condition and have maintained its normal wild behavioural responses. The shorter the period of time in

captivity, the better an animal’s chances will be for survival upon release.

An animal is ready to be considered for release when it:

Has no permanent physical impairment that may effect its chances of survival.•

Has regained fitness and condition.•

Is able to tolerate outside conditions and its natural food sources,•

Displays normal behaviour. The animal must show instinctual fear of humans and predators, be able to catch

and process food, interact with conspecifics, find or construct shelter, mark its territory if applicable, and move

and navigate terrain with confidence.

The following steps should be undertaken prior to release:

•

The most appropriate method of release determined. For instance, if an animal has been held for a short time

(eg. a week) it is likely to have retained its survival skills, and should not require any post release support to

improve its survival chances. Therefore, the animal can be given a ‘hard’ release at the rescue site. Animals

that have undergone an extended period in captivity may require a ‘soft’ release. This may involve the provision

of food, shelter or predator protection over a protracted period.

•

All animals to be released must be inspected by a veterinarian or experienced wildlife rehabilitator to ensure

they are free of overt disease (including any diseases contracted during captivity) which may be transmitted to

native populations.

•

Wildlife should be transferred to the release site and handled in such a way as to minimise stress. They should

be captured quickly and expertly, and placed in a receptacle suitable for the particular species involved (such

as a box, bag or cage lined with cloth). During transport, unnecessary noise should be avoided and the animal

must have adequate ventilation. Only one animal should be transported per bag or box, other than mother and

pouch young or a family group.

•

Avoid releasing an animal under circumstances that may cause additional stress, such as extremes of weather,

or releasing during the wrong time of day (eg releasing nocturnal animals during daylight). Some animals fare

better if released in established social groups. Animals that require nest boxes/hollows should not be released

without at least a temporary nest box being provided to reduce stress and threat of predation immediately

following release.

•

In the event where release is unsuccessful (for instance, the animal cannot find food, shelter or territory in the

wild and is returned to the wildlife rehabilitator) the animal should be humanely euthanased. Exceptional

circumstances should be discussed with an officer from DSE for example if the animal is a member of a

threatened species.

•

Wildlife rehabilitator training and experience

Permit holders should possess appropriate skills to ensure the welfare of the wildlife temporarily in their care. These

skills include:



A clear understanding of the objectives of wildlife rehabilitation.•

Accurate identification of species.•

First aid for injured wildlife.•

Husbandry.•

Avoidance of disease transmission.•

A basic understanding of wildlife ecology and population dynamics.•

The ability to access specialised information.•

Handling techniques.•

In order to obtain and maintain an appropriate level of technical skills, a certain degree of training is necessary.

Attendance at training sessions on a regular basis and a demonstrated undertaking to meet the standards embodied

in this Code will facilitate permit renewal.

To ensure the welfare of wildlife in their care, wildlife rehabilitators should only take as many animals as they can

manage.

To assist with the care of sick injured or orphaned wildlife and to provide a training facility for potential wildlife

rehabilitators, up to three foster carers may be nominated under each permit to provide assistance. The wildlife

rehabilitator will be responsible for the actions of the foster carers listed on the permit and is required to oversee the

rehabilitation process. The permit holder cares for animals that are difficult to look after, while foster carers requiring

experience are usually restricted to animals that are easy to rehabilitate.

Records

An important aspect of wildlife rehabilitation is the compilation and maintenance of accurate records relating to animal

admissions. Such records assist in the treatment, rehabilitation and release of animals, provide valuable case history

information for future admissions, and are an important resource for other wildlife rehabilitators. Statistics from these

records can also be used to analyse the factors involved in wildlife rehabilitation, such as the reasons why animals

are brought to shelters, the species involved, the areas they are coming from, and the outcomes of rehabilitation. In

addition, these records are required by DSE for inspections.

Wildlife rehabilitators should note that it is a condition of the permit that records be maintained in an appropriate

format. The permit specifies the type of information that should be recorded. Wildlife rehabilitators are also

encouraged to keep their own additional details regarding the care, treatment and release of animals.

Essential information to be recorded incudes:

the species•

the date the animal was brought into the shelter•

where the animal was found•

the animal’s injuries / condition•

the cause of the animal’s injury / condition (if known)•

the fate of the animal (including release site and release date if applicable).•

Appendix - Recommended minimum cage sizes

1. Birds

The Code of Practice for the Housing of Caged Birds details cage construction, and permit holders should be

conversant with this Code. In the design of any bird cage, the ratio between the lengths of the two longest straight



lines which can be described on the floor of the cage and at right angles to each other shall not exceed 4:1 unless the

shorter of those two lines is at least 900 mm long. The length of this line should be at least twice the span of the

wings of the largest bird to be kept in the cage.

Aviaries/cages with floor area exceeding 20 000 cm must be of a minimum height of at least 150cm and allow access

for physical entry. The minimum length and width of any cage should be at least twice the length of the largest bird in

the cage. The care of raptors requires additional specialised knowledge and should only be undertaken by authorised

individuals.

Indoor cage dimensions (NOTE: Birds specified below are examples)

Size of bird (approximate length)

Minimum Floor area (sq cm)

Number of birds

Minimum height (cm)

Increased floor area for each additional bird (sq cm)

100mm (10cm)

Zebra Finches

1000 1 34 500

200mm (20cm)

Neophema,

Budgerigars, Lorikeets

(except Rainbow and

Red Collared)

1,600 1 34 800

300mm (30cm)

Rosellas, Cockatiels,

Rainbow Lorikeets and

Bronzewing Pigeons

5,000 1 90 2,500

400mm (40cm)

King Parrots, Princess

Parrots, Indian

Ringneck and Superb

Parrots, Galahs and

Long billed Corellas

10,000 1 90 5,000

500mm (50cm)

Sulphur Crested

Cockatoos

15,000 1 150 7,500

Outdoor Cage Dimensions (NOTE: Birds specified below are examples)


Minimum Floor area (cm)

Number of birds

Minimum height (cm)

Increased floor area for each additional bird (cm)

100mm (10cm)

Zebra Finches

3,700 1 60 1,800

200mm (20cm)

Neophemas,

Budgerigars, Lorikeets

(except Rainbow and

Red Collared)

7,200 1 60 3,600

300mm (30cm)

Rosellas, Cockatiels,

Rainbow Lorikeets and

Bronzewing Pigeons

10,000 1 90 5,000



400mm (40cm)

King Parrots, Princess

Parrots, Indian

Ringneck and Superb

Parrots, Galahs and

Long billed Corellas

15,000 1 90 7,500

500mm (50cm)

Sulphur Crested

Cockatoos

25,000 1 150 12,500

2. Wading Birds

Note: Birds specified below are examples

Wading Birds require shallow areas providing soft substrate and natural feeding opportunities. Failure to provide

these conditions may lead to chronic foot problems.

Size of bird Minimum Floor area (cm)

Increased floor area for each additional bird (cm)

Minimum height (cm)

Minimum surface area of water (cm)

Large Birds Swans, Pelicans, Brolgas, Albatross

50,000 25,000 150 2,000

Small Birds Wild Ducks, Cormorants, Water Hens and Herons

25,000 12,500 150 1,000

3. Reptiles

Only compatible animals may be multiple housed.

Type of Animal Minimum floor area (cm)

Maximum number of animals

Minimum height (cm) Increased floor area for each additional animal (cm)

Tortoises

Up to 10 cm length 1,600 1 20 400

Over 10 cm length 20,000 1 20 10,000

Snakes

Small terrestrial of <60

cm in length eg. adult

Little Whip or juvenile

Pythons

1,800 2 30 900

Less than 1.2 metres

in length eg. Children’s

Python, Tiger Snake

and Copperhead

4,000 2 50 2,000

Less than 2.5 metres

in length eg. Eastern

Brown, and Taipan

King Brown

15,000 1 120 7,500



Tree snakes up to 1.2

metres in length

4,800 2 80 2,400

Large Pythons up to

2.5 metres in length

eg. Diamond Python,

Carpet Python, Water

Python and

Amenthystines

20,000 1 150 10,000

Note: Snakes longer than 2.5 metres require a minimum area of half their length squared

Lizards

Skinks, Dragons and

Water Dragons

10,000 1 100 5,000

Goannas 45,000 1 200 20,000

4. Mammals

Only compatible animals may be multiple housed.

Type of animal Minimum floor area (cm)

Maximum number of animals

Minimum height (cm) Increased floor area for each additional animal (cm)

Hopping Mice 1,400 1 25 700

Dunnarts 2,000 1 25 1,000

Kowaris,

Antechinuses,

Mountain Pygmy

Possums

3,000 1 30 1,500

Small Quolls 10,000 1 50 5,000

Feathertail Gliders 2,500 6 100 1,000

Tuans, Leadbeater

Possums, Sugar and

Squirrel Gliders and

Ringtail Possums

2,500 2 100 1,000

Brushtail Possums 10,000 1 200 5,000

Potaroos and Bettongs 20,000 2 200 10,000

Tiger Quolls, Yellow

Bellied and Greater

Gliders, juvenile

Kangaroos and

Wallabies less than 5

kg, Echidnas and

Koalas

20,000 1 200 10,000

Wallabies greater than

5kg, Kangaroos less

50m 1 200 25m



than 20kg and

Wombats

Kangaroos greater

than 20kg

100m 1 200 50m

5. Nest boxes

Type of animal Maximum number of animals

Minimum length (cm)

Minimum width (cm)

Minimum height (cm)

Opening diameter (mm)

Dunnart, Pygmy

Possum,

Feathertail Glider

and Antechinuses

6 14 12 10 32

Kowari

Hopping Mice

Mountain Pygmy

Possum

1

6

2 adults or mother

and young

25 17 11 50

Tuan, Sugar

Glider, Squirrel

Glider and

Leadbeater

Possum

1 adult or breeding

pair or family group

25 17 11 50

Ringtail Possum

and Yellow Bellied

Glider

1 20 25 43 65

Brushtail Possum,

Great Glider and

Quolls

1 25 30 55 85

Wombat 1 55 120 50 -

Note: Leadbeater Possums, Sugar Gliders and Squirrel Gliders prefer to nest in family groups and may use a type

five box with a 50mm opening. A choice of two boxes is recommended to accommodate individuals ejected after

social disputes.

Approved by the Governor in Council 23 May 2000

Issued by the Minister for Agriculture

Prevention of Cruelty to Animals Act 1986

Published in the Victorian Government Gazette 23 November 2000





Appendix F: Code – Care of orphaned, sick or injured protected animals (DERM, 2009)

Code of Practice

Page 1 of 27 • 100309 Department of Environment and Resource Management www.derm.qld.gov.au ABN 46 640 294 485

Wildlife Management

Orphaned, sick or injured protected wildlife

Code of Practice Care of orphaned, sick or injured protected animals by wildlife care

volunteers Nature Conservation Act 1992

Code of Practice Orphaned, sick or injured protected wildlife

Table of Contents 1 Introduction ................................................................................................................................... 4 2 Considerations about rehabilitating an animal .......................................................................... 5 3 Objectives of wildlife rehabilitation ............................................................................................. 6 4 Restrictions on caring for animals with special needs.............................................................. 7 5 Number of wildlife ......................................................................................................................... 8 6 Triage or veterinary assessment ................................................................................................. 8 7 Health monitoring.......................................................................................................................... 9 8 Human health risks ....................................................................................................................... 9 9 Minimising stress ........................................................................................................................ 10 10 Transportation.......................................................................................................................... 10 11 Housing..................................................................................................................................... 10 12 Food and water......................................................................................................................... 11 13 Veterinary treatments and major surgical procedures......................................................... 11 14 Euthanasia ................................................................................................................................ 12 15 Release procedures ................................................................................................................. 12 16 Records..................................................................................................................................... 13 17 Responsibility of incorporated associations ........................................................................ 14 Part 2: Caring for raptors .................................................................................................................. 15 1 General ......................................................................................................................................... 15 2 Carer qualifications..................................................................................................................... 15 3 Tethering and use of falconry techniques ................................................................................ 15 4 Diet and food collection.............................................................................................................. 15 5 Quality of food ............................................................................................................................. 16 6 Housing ........................................................................................................................................ 17 7 Hygiene ........................................................................................................................................ 19 8 Orphans........................................................................................................................................ 19 9 Hacking ........................................................................................................................................ 19 10 Threatened species.................................................................................................................. 20 Definitions .......................................................................................................................................... 20 Appendix 1: Minimum cage sizes..................................................................................................... 22

Birds: Indoor cage dimensions ........................................................................................................ 22 Birds: Outdoor cage dimensions...................................................................................................... 23 Wading birds..................................................................................................................................... 24 Reptiles............................................................................................................................................. 25 Mammals .......................................................................................................................................... 26 Raptors and other carnivorous birds................................................................................................. 27

Page 2 of 27 • 100309 Department of Environment and Resource Management


© The State of Queensland, Department of Environment and Resource Management, 2010.

Copyright protects this publication. Except for purposes permitted by the Copyright Act, reproduction by whatever means is prohibited without prior written permission of the Department of Environment and Resource Management. Requests for permission should be addressed to Department of Environment and Resource Management (DERM), GPO Box 2454 Brisbane QLD 4001.

Author: Department of Environment and Resource Management Telephone: (07) 3330 5259

Approved in accordance with section 174A of the Nature Conservation Act 1992.

Acknowledgements:

This Code of Practice has been prepared by the Department of Environment and Resource Management (DERM) in consultation with the then Department of Primary Industries and Fisheries’ (Department of Employment, Economic Development and Innovation) Biosecurity Queensland and the Queensland Wildlife Rehabilitation Council.



1 Introduction 1.1 All native birds, mammals (except the dingo outside protected areas), reptiles and amphibians in

Queensland are protected under the Nature Conservation Act 1992 (‘the Act’).

1.2 This Code of Practice is approved by the Minister under the Nature Conservation Act 1992. Other relevant legislation for this purpose includes the Nature Conservation (Wildlife Management) Regulation 2006 (‘the Regulation’), the Nature Conservation (Wildlife) Regulation 2006 (‘Wildlife Regulation’), the Nature Conservation (Administration) Regulation 2006 and the Animal Care and Protection Act 2001.

1.3 This Code has been prepared by the Queensland Parks and Wildlife Service (QPWS), Department of Primary Industries and Fisheries (DPI&F) and the Queensland Wildlife Rehabilitation Council (QWRC) to help ensure acceptable standards of welfare for native wildlife being cared for by volunteer wildlife carers and to ensure that the efforts of carers will result in the successful rehabilitation of animals for release in the wild.

1.4 QWRC is the peak representative body for the wildlife rehabilitation industry in Queensland. The council’s focus is to ensure excellent welfare for native animals during and after rehabilitation to achieve, complement and advance conservation benefits and outcomes.

1.5 This Code applies to all wildlife carers caring for orphaned, sick, or injured wildlife that are intended for return to the wild.

1.6 QPWS must be contacted within 72 hours of native wildlife coming into care unless the carer is already licenced or an existing member of a care group. QPWS must be contacted immediately for marine mammals.

1.7 The Department of Environment and Resource Management (DERM) may issue a rehabilitation permit to an individual or a corporation. A voluntary wildlife care association may obtain a rehabilitation permit once it has become incorporated. All members in the association will operate under the permit of that group. Further details of this requirement are outlined in Section 17 of this Code.

1.8 The basic requirements for the well-being of native animals are:

freedom to exhibit normal animal behaviour to the extent possible in a captive environment;

sufficient area of appropriate quality to maintain their well-being and allow them to exhibit natural behaviour;

protection from predation;

protection from injury and disease, including the provision of veterinary treatment;

protection from extremes of climate, particularly when young or injured;

protection from pain, distress, suffering, and injury; and

appropriate and sufficient food and water to sustain health and vitality.

1.9 Carers must have a sound knowledge of the captive husbandry and rehabilitation practices for each species they care for. A sound knowledge of particular species enables the early detection of signs of distress and disease, so that the cause can be identified and prompt, appropriate remedial action taken.

1.10 All animals coming into care must be examined by a veterinary surgeon as a matter of urgency to establish whether they are suitable for rehabilitation (see Section 14)1.

1 For those animals deemed not suitable for rehabilitation see Section 14.



1.11 Animals can carry diseases that may be transmitted to people, known as zoonotic diseases. Some zoonotic diseases can cause serious health problems in people. Carers should follow the advice of their health care professional before handling any animals.

1.12 The Regulation requires a person that keeps an animal under a rehabilitation permit to release the animal into appropriate natural habitat as close as practical to where the animal was found once the animal is again able to live in that habitat.

1.13 The primary aim of caring for orphaned, sick or injured protected animals is to rehabilitate the animal and return it to the wild. As a consequence, information may be obtained about animal biology, ecology and conservation of native wildlife.

1.14 The work of volunteer wildlife carers may contribute to conservation through research, community education and promotion of a respect for animals and, in some cases, for sustaining populations of species in the wild. Although the survival rate of the majority of rehabilitated wildlife in the wild is not known, the techniques and data developed when caring for common animals can be of benefit when threatened species come into care.

1.15 This Code is current at the time of publication and may be subject to periodic review.

2 Considerations about rehabilitating an animal 2.1 To help promote survival, rehabilitated animals should be returned to suitable habitat close to the

location where they were found. Habitats have a carrying capacity for a particular species, and most occupied sites tend to function at carrying capacity. Relocating wildlife to new areas is not recommended, as there is the potential to spread disease, compromise genetic integrity, displace other animals from their home ranges and create competition with local wildlife.

2.2 When the carrying capacity of an area for a particular species is reached, new individuals may be unable to find an available territory. With this in mind, when assessing an animal’s suitability for successful rehabilitation, the potential of the animal to be successfully reintroduced should be taken into account. This assessment should include:

a) age and sex of the animal;

b) ability to establish a home range; and

c) need for social interaction.

2.3 Captivity can cause high levels of distress in wildlife, sometimes resulting in the development of abnormal behaviours and reduced rehabilitation success and impair the long-term survival of the individual and species.

2.4 Hand-reared wildlife may not have developed the necessary behaviours and skills to survive, resulting in a disadvantage when competing for food, shelter and territory. Captivity for extended periods can result in:

a) loss of survival skills;

imprinting or reliance on humans; and

loss of territory in the wild to members of the same species.

2.5 Wildlife carers should strive to maintain the highest possible standards of welfare for animals in their care. This can be achieved by a high standard of care and maintaining a sound knowledge and understanding of the species and current rehabilitation information, methods and regulations.



Membership with an animal welfare or wildlife organisations is strongly recommended to maintain this knowledge.

2.6 To help maintain high standards of animal welfare and avoid personal injury, it is essential that carers are trained and competent to deal with orphaned, sick, or injured native animals.

2.7 Carers are encouraged to co-operate with other carers in their area by sharing resources and knowledge. This is particularly important for gregarious species that require the company of their own kind, e.g. lorikeets, kangaroos and some species of glider. This will assist in creating an established grouping prior to release.

3 Objectives of wildlife rehabilitation 3.1 The primary aim of wildlife rehabilitation is to return healthy, functioning native animals to the wild. The

broad objectives of wildlife rehabilitation as outlined in this Code are to:

a) provide immediate sanctuary, emergency care and first aid for distressed native wildlife;

b) provide appropriate longer term care for animals suitable for rehabilitation;

c) suitably prepare animals for survival upon release; and

d) treat all animals in a humane manner.

3.2 To foster an environment conducive to the effective rehabilitation of animals and to ensure that the likelihood of the survival of animals once released to the wild is maximised, carers should:

a) arrange for the early assessment (e.g. state of health, injury or dependence) of an orphaned, sick or injured protected animal;

b) provide immediate first aid;

c) ensure prompt veterinary treatment where required;

d) ensure that each animal is assessed within 72 hours, usually in consultation with either a veterinarian, preferably with wildlife experience, or other knowledgeable person, as to the suitability of the animal for rehabilitation;

e) provide suitable treatment and housing for the animal that promotes the well-being of the particular species and conforms to this Code;

f) ensure animals that are not suitable for release (and are not listed under the Convention on International Trade in Endangered Species of Wild Flora and Fauna (CITES)) are euthanased promptly by a veterinary surgeon or another person who has authority to administer drugs to an animal under the Health (Drugs and Poisons) Regulations 1996;

g) attend at least two (2) organised training sessions each year to continue developing animal care skills and knowledge;

h) obtain and follow the instructions of veterinary surgeons, QPWS officers and taxon co-ordinators within the person’s volunteer wildlife care association (if applicable), concerning husbandry, rehabilitation and release of animals in their care;

i) co-operate and communicate with members of the wildlife care network; and

j) take the responsibility for arranging for the humane euthanasia of animals unable to be successfully rehabilitated and released back into the wild.



4 Restrictions on caring for animals with special needs 4.1 The species listed below may have requirements outside the normal capacity of most carers. Additional

requirements are placed upon carers who intend to keep these species to improve the likelihood of successful rehabilitation and their return to the wild. The criteria against which a rehabilitation permit may be granted depend upon the person meeting the requirements stated for the species.

4.2 Permits may only be granted to persons assessed as having the appropriate skills and facilities to house and care for the following wildlife:

a) Cassowary

• Contact Queensland Parks and Wildlife Service.

Echidna

• Contact Queensland Parks and Wildlife Service or a person who holds a permit that specifically provides for this species to be rehabilitated.

Emu

• Contact Queensland Parks and Wildlife Service. This species may only be rehabilitated on rural-residential and rural land.

Koala


Raptors

• Contact Queensland Parks and Wildlife Service or a person who holds a permit that specifically provides for this species to be rehabilitated. Only carers who are affiliated with a Raptor Association or those with a proven record and suitable facilities in raptor rehabilitation may keep raptors (see Part 2).

Reptiles


Marine turtles


Platypus


Flying-foxes and micro-bats

• All persons caring for flying foxes and insectivorous bats must be vaccinated against Australian Bat Lyssavirus (ABL) and must regularly consult their General Practitioner or Public Health Unit to maintain vaccinations.

Seabirds




5 Number of wildlife 5.1 Some local governments may have specific local laws concerning the number of animals permitted to

be held in residential or commercial premises.

5.2 Where no local government regulations exist, it is recommended that no more than five (5) animals be held on a single property. This, however, excludes the holding of social or gregarious species including at approved pre-release facilities.

5.3 Carers may only keep an animal if they are satisfied that the animal can be rehabilitated for release to the wild.

5.4 Carers must ensure they have sufficient space to rehabilitate animals.

6 Triage or veterinary assessment 6.1 It is recommended that wildlife carers present all orphaned, sick or injured protected animals to a

veterinarian or another person who is particularly knowledgeable about the species as soon as practical after the animals come into their care. This will help to quickly and accurately assess the animal’s suitability for rehabilitation and release to the wild and to obtain advice on appropriate treatment.

6.2 The veterinarian or knowledgeable person must:

a) determine the overall health, and/or severity of any injury or disease;

b) as far as practicable test for congenital diseases known to affect the survival of a particular species;

c) provide advice on appropriate treatment for the animal. This must be within the scope of the person’s expertise; and

d) if not suitable for future release into the wild, humanely euthanase the animal (except in the case where the animal has significant conservation value or is a priority listed species, see Section 14).

6.3 Conditions that may prevent successful rehabilitation include:

a) loss of limbs or function of limbs, including tails;

b) permanent vital sensory loss (e.g. hearing, sight, smell);

c) incurable, infectious and contagious disease;

d) permanent damage to the nervous system;

e) imprinted behaviour patterns;

f) inability to adjust to captivity; and

g) chronic ill health.

6.4 Possible outcomes of the assessment are that the animal is:

a) judged to be potentially suitable for rehabilitation and release to the wild;

b) borderline, and further assessment is required by another specialised veterinarian;

c) unlikely to survive without radical surgery (e.g. amputation of a limb), which would prevent its return to the wild; or

d) injured so badly that survival is unlikely.

In assessment (c) refer to Section 15.4 and in assessment (d) the animal should be promptly and humanely euthanased to prevent further suffering.



7 Health monitoring 7.1 Prompt veterinary treatment is vital to ensure the welfare of orphaned, sick or injured wildlife.

7.2 Carers must monitor the condition of animals in their care, as the early detection of any change in an animal’s condition and signs of distress are essential to ensure the successful rehabilitation of the animal.

7.3 Recommended guidelines for frequency of monitoring by rehabilitators are as follows:

a) Very young orphans, seriously ill or injured animals, are monitored every four hours at each feed.

b) Older orphans or animals with minor injury or illness, are monitored every 12 hours by manual restraint.

c) All animals being prepared for release, are monitored visually once a day.

7.4 The frequency of veterinary inspections will vary with the animal’s age, type of injury or illness, and required treatments.

8 Human health risks 8.1 There are a number of diseases in native wildlife that are transmissible between animals and humans

(zoonotic diseases) that can cause illness and disease. These include, but are not limited to:

a) Australian Bat Lyssavirus (ABL);

b) Q fever;

c) leptospirosis;

d) ornithosis (Psittacosis);

e) salmonellosis;

f) tuberculosis;

g) yersiniosis;

h) pasteurellosis;

i) aspergillosis;

j) scabies;

k) lice; and

l) ticks.

8.2 Many of these diseases can cause serious illness in humans and some are potentially fatal. Volunteer wildlife carers should seek medical advice on suitable strategies to prevent or minimise the chances of contracting a zoonotic disease from animals in their care. Contact the Queensland Department of Health or your medical practitioner for further information.

8.3 All animals should be considered potential disease carriers throughout their entire period of care.

8.4 Stressed, injured or diseased animals may be aggressive towards humans. It is important to consider and minimise the risks to your personal safety from the animal and its surroundings before attempting to handle the animal.



9 Minimising stress 9.1 Wildlife held in captivity are generally highly susceptible to both acute and chronic effects of stress.

Factors causing stress include:

• human presence and contact;

• confinement;

• unfamiliar surroundings;

• changes in diet;

• break-up of social groups;

• presence of unfamiliar animals; and

• unfamiliar odours and noises.

This susceptibility to stress increases in animals that are orphaned, sick or injured.

9.2 Chronic stress can result in reduced growth rates, retarded recovery, abnormal behaviour (e.g. self-mutilation) and increased mortalities.

9.3 To minimise the factors causing stress, careful consideration must be given to the behavioural needs of the animal, its age, the design and location of housing and the animal’s management.

10 Transportation 10.1 Transportation is stressful for any wild animal. It is important that the method of transport used is

appropriate for the particular species and that travel duration is minimised.

10.2 Factors that need to be carefully considered before transporting any wildlife include:

• particular needs of the species;

• temperament;

• size;

• age;

• extent of injury or disease;

• safety of animal and handler; and

• other animals being transported.

10.3 Queensland Wildlife Rehabilitation Council (QWRC), your local wildlife care association or QPWS are able to provide further information on the transport requirements for the various wildlife species.

11 Housing 11.1 Accommodation plays an integral part in the rehabilitation process. Housing must be provided in such a

way as to:

a) fulfil the animal’s needs during the care period;

b) minimise handling and stress; and

c) enable development for survival in the wild.

11.2 Birds, reptiles and mammals must be housed with a floor area as listed in Appendix 1.



11.3 Carers should make sure that only compatible species are housed together.

11.4 Carers should ensure that captive birds are located at a suitable distance from human dwellings.

11.5 Avoid imprinting by humans and exposure to domestic pets. Human imprinting or cohabitation with domestic pets may prevent successful rehabilitation.

11.6 Some individual animals are adapted to living in social groups and rehabilitate more successfully when housed with members of their own species. Communication and co-operation between wildlife carers can help solve these problems. Imprinting by humans is much less likely under these circumstances.

12 Food and water 12.1 Food and water of suitable quality and appropriate quantity for the species must be provided to ensure:

a) maximum potential for healing and recovery from wounds and injuries;

b) growth of young animals; and

c) maximum development of natural survival techniques.

12.2 Carers must be aware of the appropriate food and water requirements for the particular species in care. Advice must be sought from a knowledgeable person when caring for a species unfamiliar to the carer.

12.3 Food and water for captive birds must be sufficiently protected from contamination by wild birds.

12.4 Captive diets must be similar to the natural diet for the species to minimise the impact of captivity and to stimulate normal digestive function. Overfeeding of animals may reduce the likelihood of survival after release.

12.5 Prior to release, animals must have foods included into their diet that would be available to them in the area where they are to be released (e.g. must be eating at least 85 percent natural diet).

13 Veterinary treatments and major surgical procedures 13.1 Part 4B of The Veterinary Surgeons Act 1936 precludes a person other than a registered veterinarian

from practising veterinary surgery or medicine.

13.2 ‘Veterinary science’ means the science of veterinary surgery or veterinary medicine.

13.3 ‘Veterinary science’ includes the following:

a) diagnosing diseases in, and injuries to, animals, including, for example, testing animals for diagnostic purposes;

b) giving advice based on a diagnosis under paragraph (a);

c) medical or surgical treatment of animals;

d) performing surgical operations on animals;

e) administering anaesthetics to animals; and

f) signing or issuing certificates relating to the description, health, diagnosis or treatment of animals.

13.4 However, ‘veterinary science’ does not include an act done for animal husbandry or animal dentistry prescribed under a regulation not to be veterinary science.

13.5 Volunteer wildlife carers may only administer basic first aid of help and assistance to wildlife until professional help can be obtained. In cases where veterinarians are not able to examine the animal



directly, the carer must make every effort to obtain verbal veterinary advice. Incorrect diagnosis and treatment can have a detrimental effect on the welfare of the animal.

13.6 A carer under the direction or supervision of a veterinarian may administer some veterinary treatments. The use of drugs is controlled under the Health (Drugs and Poisons) Regulation 1996.

13.7 Cruelty to an animal is an offence under the Animal Care and Protection Act 2001.

14 Euthanasia 14.1 Euthanasia of wildlife may be necessary:

a) to alleviate pain or suffering;

b) when further treatment is not practical or recovery is not expected such that the animal can be successfully rehabilitated to the wild; or

c) when there is a reasonable expectation that the animal will not be suitable for return to the wild (unless the species is listed under CITES).

14.2 To achieve humane destruction (or ‘euthanasia’) of an animal the method must ‘achieve instant insensibility followed by rapid death of the animal without first regaining sensation or consciousness’.

14.3 The preferred method of euthanasia for most species is by intravenous barbiturate overdose.

14.4 Euthanasia by intravenous barbiturate overdose MUST be carried out by a registered veterinarian, approved wildlife staff of the Queensland Parks and Wildlife Service, or by persons authorised by the Chief Executive of Queensland Health.

15 Release procedures 15.1 This phase of the rehabilitation process is critical and must be carefully planned. To this end,

rehabilitation must incorporate not only the physical health and well-being of the animal, but also ensure that the necessary survival skills are present. This is particularly important for predatory animals and those with highly specialised diets. In these cases, the animals may have to be taught to hunt or weaned to an appropriate diet prior to release.

15.2 In order to facilitate a successful approach, steps to be followed in releasing an animal are listed below and only apply to animals judged fit for release:

a) The animal must be released as near as possible to the point of origin. If the habitat has been destroyed, the animal must be released within five (5) km of the capture site.

b) Prior to release, all animals must be inspected by a veterinarian to ensure that they are clinically free of diseases and parasites.

c) If a group has a release program approved by QPWS, the animal may be tagged or marked to assess the success or otherwise of the release program. Tagging, banding or other marking, including electromagnetic implanting, can only be undertaken by those persons who are accredited to band wildlife or by a registered veterinarian.

d) When releasing an animal, attention must be paid to a number of factors, including weather conditions, seasonal conditions and the animal’s ecology. More particularly, the animal should be released:

into a suitable habitat with adequate food supply.



in appropriate weather, season and time of day. This is particularly important for migratory species.

under circumstances which will not cause additional stress, such as extremes of weather, the wrong time of the day (i.e. nocturnal animals).

in the appropriate social group. Some animals fare better if released into social groups.

e) It is the responsibility of each carer to contact their local wildlife care association to discuss release strategies and sites for each species.

15.3 If the release is unsuccessful, despite repeated attempts to rehabilitate the animal for release to the wild, other options must be discussed with QPWS staff.

15.4 QPWS staff should contact the DERM representative on the Queensland Species Management Plan (QSMP) Committee (a committee of the Australasian Regional Association of Zoological Parks and Aquaria Queensland [ARAZPAQ]) to check whether the animal should be directed to the QSMP for captive breeding programs. Animals cannot be kept permanently on a rehabilitation permit.

15.5 Progeny of wildlife held on a rehabilitation permit must be released to the wild when self-sufficient.

15.6 Glider species (except the greater glider, Petauroides volans, which is solitary) must be held in appropriate groups as early as possible to enable the social unit to develop before release.

15.7 Individual carers should contact a knowledgeable person, carer group or QPWS for advice on ‘soft’ release of animals with a close social structure such as bats (including flying-foxes), gliders and macropods.

16 Records 16.1 An important task of a wildlife care volunteer is the maintenance of detailed and accurate records for

each animal. Such records will assist in the treatment, rehabilitation and release of the animals and will provide valuable case histories for the future.

16.2 Records should include the following: a) species and sex of the animal for each individual animal. Correct species identification of the animal

is vital in order to properly treat, care for and release the animal.

b) nature of any injuries and possible cause, or reason for care;

c) accurate locality data describing where the animal was found, name and address (where possible) of the person who found the animal and/or delivered it and the date it was received. This information is vital to ensure the animal is released back into the area it formerly occupied. Releasing the animal at the site of collection maintains geographic genetic variations and minimises the risk of introducing new diseases or parasites to an area.

d) details of veterinary diagnosis and treatments, including surgery and medication;

e) regular body weight (and for juveniles other growth measurements as appropriate), foot and tail length for macropods and wing length for birds;

f) method and locality of release, noting if supplementary food or shelter was provided;

g) details of the animal’s individual identifying markings and tag or band number if applicable;

h) if the animal cannot be released to the wild, then the reason for this, and the means of euthanasia or placement with QSMP must be recorded;



i) details of care and treatment and a description of the rehabilitation steps, e.g. exercise, training, introduction to correct diet;

j) history of consultation with the QPWS and other persons; and

k) records of any post-release sightings.

17 Responsibility of incorporated associations 17.1 It is the responsibility of any incorporated wildlife care group to ensure that:

a) This Code of Practice forms part of the Rules of Membership or Constitution of the Group.

b) The group provides current membership cards or letters to members stating the name of the group, name of the member and signature and duration of membership.

c) Membership lists are updated and forwarded annually to Permit and Licence Management, Department of Environment and Resource Management, GPO Box 2454 Brisbane QLD 4001.

d) Release sites are located and members are advised of suitable sites and procedures for release.

e) Programs are developed that provide information to members on care, diet and release of all species that the corporation is permitted to keep.

f) Potential members are informed of matters such as costs, both financial and time, that are borne by the individual.

g) All members are aware of and abide by the provisions of this Code.

h) A process is established for handling difficulties or complaints against members either from external or internal parties and a policy developed on handling grievances by members against the group. All new members must be given copies of such procedures or polices.

i) All members are given clear and unambiguous directions by the person in charge stated on the rehabilitation permit concerning the things that the member may do under the authority of the rehabilitation permit.

j) The association shall advise any person who is no longer a member of the association that they are no longer permitted to operate under the permit.

k) If the association becomes aware that a member operating under the permit does not comply with this Code, the association shall either:

i) identify actions or steps needed to be taken by the member to comply with this Code within stated time frames;

ii) limit the authority of the member to operate under the permit; or

iii) instruct the person that they are no longer permitted to operate under the permit.



Part 2: Caring for raptors

1 General 1.1 The successful rehabilitation of orphaned, sick or injured raptors into the wild requires a highly trained,

motivated and dedicated person whose prime concern is the welfare of the birds in their care. They will need to have access to very specialised skills, equipment, resources and techniques.

1.2 Permits to rehabilitate raptors will only be issued to individuals or groups that have been assessed by QPWS officers as having the appropriate experience and facilities to meet the requirements of this Code.

1.3 The requirements of the Raptor Code are in addition to the requirements of the general Code of Practice — Care and rehabilitation of orphaned, sick or injured protected animals by wildlife care volunteers.

1.4 Falconry (the training and use of birds of prey) must not be practiced except in the final stages of rehabilitation immediately before the animal is to be released.

2 Carer qualifications 2.1 A rehabilitation permit for raptors may only be granted to a person who:

a) has a professional association with a raptor group or can otherwise demonstrate a long-standing commitment to raptor conservation;

b) has a proven record in raptor rehabilitation and knowledge of raptors; and

c) provides care and facilities including access to a veterinarian with appropriate experience in raptors as required under this Raptor Code and this general Code.

3 Tethering and use of falconry techniques 3.1 To protect them from animal predators, tethered raptors shall either be under constant supervision or

enclosed.

3.2 If raptors are to be tethered, then the person wishing to handle the birds shall be fully conversant in the manufacture and use of the following falconry equipment:

• leather jesses (proper fit to avoid injury);

• gloves;

• jess swivels;

• hoods (improper fit is likely to cause injury);

• leashes; and

• perches (unsuitable perches can cause tangling or bumble foot).

4 Diet and food collection 4.1 Where animals are in captivity long-term, suitable whole dead animals shall provide at least 50percent

of the nutritional and energy requirements of raptors, noting that for piscivorous species at least 25percent of the dietary requirements shall be fish.



4.2 For birds of the Accipiter and Erythotriorchis genera and bird-hunting species of the Falco genera, at least 60percent of their diet shall be suitable bird species.

4.3 Lean meat is only a suitable surrogate provided that some whole dead animals of a suitable size are provided. This is to enable the birds to ingest some bone and then only if fed on lean meat for a limited time such that the bird’s ability to handle natural food is not compromised (i.e. a few weeks up to two (2) months).

4.4 Suitable whole dead animals will depend upon the species and should include:

• domestic mice, rats and rabbits (for mammal eating species);

• fish (for piscivorous species);

• birds, such as quail of the Coturnix genus and domestic chickens (for bird eating species); and

• any natural prey, which can be legally obtained.

4.5 Growing chicks and long-term birds held must not be fed diets containing more than 50percent young whole dead animals/birds (less than six (6) weeks old), as these animals do not have well calcified bones and therefore do not provide a balanced diet.

4.6 Where few whole dead animals are supplied, the meat must be supplemented with an appropriate calcium–phosphorus balanced mineral supplement.

4.7 Except on starve days (days where no food is given), a sufficient quantity of food should be provided daily so that there is some left over each day. Growing nestlings and very thin or ill patients should not have any starve days.

4.8 Raptors may be given no more than one (1) starve day a week and there shall be at least three (3) days between any two (2) starve days.

4.9 Food items shall be placed on a clean surface.

5 Quality of food 5.1 Food supplied to raptors shall be clean and fresh, obtained from a reliable source and preferably, bred

under laboratory/captive conditions.

5.2 Before carcasses are offered as food, they shall be cut open, inspected and discarded if there are gross lesions or other signs of disease.

5.3 The following should not be fed to raptors:

a) any animal that has died, or is suspected of dying from any toxic material, including insecticides, rodenticides and animals enthanased by drugs such as barbiturates (carbon dioxide and nitrogen are acceptable);

b) animals showing clinical signs of being infected by disease (especially ‘trichomonid protozoa’ in pigeons and doves) and animals that are suffering from parasitic infestation;

c) birds that have not undergone treatment to remove the risk of trichomoniasis infection. Preferred treatment: freeze for at least 24 hours at a temperature equal to or below 18°C;

d) fatty meat; and

e) animals that have been killed by lead shot.



6 Housing 6.1 As a general rule, it is unwise to mix species in any one cage unless the species are of similar size and

disposition.

6.2 At least three (3) distinct holding facility types are required for successful rehabilitation of raptors. It is most important that the advice of specialists is sought and used for the construction and management of these facilities.

a) Hospital box

• Similar design to those used for other birds. Used for the initial holding of birds suffering from severe injury or shock, or requiring assisted feeding. This type of box would be used for longer periods in cases in which the bird has suffered leg damage and must not be allowed to stand.

• A hospital box should:

provide a warm, dimly lit, quiet environment;

minimise external interference;

be of sufficient size to allow the housed bird to stand fully erect or lie fully extended and allow the carer to readily capture and remove the bird for examination or treatment;

be of solid construction with adequate ventilation and heating;

be easily cleaned; and

provide a small, very shallow dish of water (healthy raptors rarely drink, but sick ones can be dehydrated and need water).

• Raptors must be held in hospital boxes for the minimum time required.

b) Convalescence enclosure

• A bird that requires continuing intensive care, but does not require holding in a hospital box should be housed in a small enclosure which allows easy access to the bird. As a guide only and dependent on the size of the raptor in care, a suitable enclosure for a medium sized raptor could be constructed as follows:

Approximately three (3) metres long by three (3) metres wide and two and a half (2.5) metres high;

Construction may be either timber or steel frame, with three (3) walls solid or one-half (0.5) solid with the top half timber slats;

Care should be taken with the use of sheet metal for walls to avoid the `hot box’ situation. The enclosure should allow good air circulation and should not become damp and mildewy;

Enclosure should be orientated so that the bird does not receive intense summer sun or be exposed to prevailing cold winds in winter;

Care should be taken to ensure that there are no internal projections or obstacles, that are likely to injure birds;

The floor can be grass or a mixture of small pebbles thickly spread. The pebbles should be hosed at regular intervals and exposed to the sun for air-drying and UV exposure; if a grass floor is used for a patient, then a small number of river washed pebbles should be left in the



enclosure. Raptors are known to ingest these and it is thought that they aid in food digestion;

A small number of perches should be placed in the cage so that when the raptor perches on the top its head does not touch the roof. Perches must be of sufficient diameter that the span of the raptors toes/talons only goes about half way round the perch, lessening the chance of bumble foot;

The perches should be placed so that a bird that is unable to fly can still hop from one perch to the other. All raptors like to perch as high as possible in an enclosure. For birds that are well enough to fly, it is good exercise for them to fly up steeply;

Clean fresh water should be accessible to the bird; and

The roof should be constructed of non-abrasive roofing material with a covered section, with a perch below to allow the bird to shelter them from rain/sun.

c) Flight enclosure

• The flight enclosure is required for birds that are past the intensive care stage and are likely to be in care for more than 1–2 months. For most rehabilitation patients where the bird will only be in captivity for 1–2 months, the convalescence enclosure will be sufficient.

• The minimum dimensions for a diurnal raptor (eagles, hawks, kites and falcons) flight enclosure are length six (6) metres or greater, width six (6) metres or greater and height four (4) metres or greater.

• The minimum dimensions for a nocturnal raptor (owls) flight enclosure are length four (4) metres or greater, width three (3) metres or greater and height three (3) metres or greater.

• The construction and orientation of the enclosure should be in line with the requirements for the convalescence enclosure, with the following exceptions:

i) The walls can be constructed from wooden slats or wire that has shade cloth or hessian fixed to the inside.

ii) One part of the enclosure must be fully enclosed on three sides and the roof to provide protection from the elements. This allows the bird to retreat and be free from observation.

iii) A shallow bathing facility with a diameter sufficient to allow normal bathing behaviour with a depth of no greater than 15cm and not less than 5cm must be present.

iv) The pond/container shall have a non-slip, cleanable surface and no sharp edges.

v) The pond/container shall be kept filled with clean fresh water or where the length of the legs of the smallest bird is less than 15cm to a depth equal to the length of the bird’s legs.

vi) The enclosure must allow the bird access to direct sunlight over a good portion of the day.

vii) Roof material needs to be non-abrasive and high enough above the perches so that the raptor does not scrape its head.

Note: Allowance will be made for co-operative caring, e.g. one carer could have hospital boxes and convalescence facilities while another carer could provide the flight enclosure.



7 Hygiene 7.1 Substrate of enclosures shall be cleaned at least weekly or earlier if required. The substrate and fixtures

shall be maintained in a clean and hygienic condition, free from the accumulation of droppings.

7.2 Excrement, leftover food, fur, feathers and castings shall be removed at least weekly and between patients to avoid unhealthy accumulation.

7.3 Entry of potential pests, such as wild rodents, birds and insects shall be controlled.

7.4 The use in or around raptor enclosures of insecticides containing chlorinated hydrocarbons and animal poisons (e.g. rodent baits), shall be under veterinary instruction in view of the known toxicity of these substances to raptorial birds.

8 Orphans 8.1 Care must be taken to ensure that humans do not imprint on nestlings and that they are fed in

appropriate amounts at times appropriate to their development.

8.2 Suggested feeding regimes

a) Young nestlings must be fed behind a sheet or with a puppet as hand feeding will cause imprinting on the feeder and result in dysfunctional birds unsuitable for release.

b) Very young nestlings need to be kept in a brooder or on a heat pad (up to about ten (10) days to two (2) weeks in smaller species and four (4) weeks in larger eagles).

c) They should be fed in small amounts using tweezers about four (4) times per day, on diced meat with a supplement added, ground up rats’ tails or on whole ground quail. Usually, if hungry they will respond to a sharp sound or imitation of the adult call that results in begging.

d) They should be fed only as long as they keep begging and should not be force-fed. Older nestlings can be fed larger pieces, a couple of times per day.

e) Eventually, after about three (3) weeks for smaller and approximately six (6) weeks for larger species, they can be left with food to tear for themselves.

8.3 Nestlings can be kept in a box on a clean towel over a brooder pad or similar. Once they are older and standing, use pea gravel to stop straddling.

8.4 They need to be held in a suitable enclosure that allows for normal development and provides access to sunlight for at least part of the day.

9 Hacking 9.1 Hacking must only be used for birds that have already fledged. The box used must be of sufficient size

to allow the nestling to stand and stretch out its wings when it is at the size at which it will start to fly.

9.2 The following restrictions should be considered when hacking:

a) Nestlings must not be placed in a hacking box until they are old enough to keep themselves warm.

b) Nestlings that can fly must not be kept in a hacking box.

c) Nestlings must be fed every day in the hacking box until such time as they are able to fly.

d) Food must be left at the hacking box daily for at least a month and every few days after that until the birds stop returning.



e) More than one (1) nestling of the same species and similar size may be kept in a suitable sized hacking box (group hacking tends to work more effectively than for just one (1) bird).

10 Threatened species 10.1 All threatened raptors coming into care should be reported to QPWS. If a threatened raptor dies in care

it should be reported immediately, and its carcass may be required for scientific purposes.

10.2 In Queensland the following species are listed as endangered or vulnerable:

a) Square-tailed kite – Lophoictinia isura

b) Red goshawk – Erythrotriorchis radiatus

c) Grey goshawk – Accipiter novaehollandiae

d) Grey falcon – Falco hypoleucos

e) Rufous owl – Ninox rufa

f) Powerful owl – Ninox strenua

g) Sooty owl – Tyto tenebricosa

h) Masked owl – Tyto novaehollandiae

Definitions In this Code of Practice-

Act the Nature Conservation Act 1992.

Approved wildlife staff a Conservation Officer approved by the Chief Executive as prescribed by the Act and having completed the approved training in the administration of a barbiturate drug as required by the Chief Executive of Queensland Health and issued with an authority under the provisions of the Health (Drugs and Poisons) Regulation 1996.

Association permit a Rehabilitation Permit issued to a volunteer wildlife care association (incorporated under the Associations Incorporation Act 1981) to cover members of the corporation.

Euthanasia achieve humane destruction (or ‘euthanasia’) of an animal. The method must ‘achieve instant insensibility followed by rapid death of the animal without first regaining sensation or consciousness’.

Distress a state of danger or desperate need.

Knowledgeable person a person with a minimum of two (2) years demonstrated wildlife care or falconry experience in the care of that specific species of orphaned, sick or injured wildlife.

Permit a Rehabilitation Permit issued under the Act.

QPWS the Queensland Parks and Wildlife Service.

QSMP the Queensland Species Management Plan.

QWRC the Queensland Wildlife Rehabilitation Council.



Qualified person a person who has completed a training course approved by the Chief Executive of Queensland Health and issued with an authority under the provisions of the Health (Drugs and Poisons) Regulation 1996 or a person registered by the Veterinary Surgeons Board as a Veterinary Surgeon.

Raptor Code see Part 2 of the Code of Practice for the Care and rehabilitation of orphaned, sick or injured protected animals by wildlife care volunteers.

Regulation the Nature Conservation (Wildlife Management) Regulation 2006.

Release released into the wild where the protected animal is able to sustain life and perform its normal biological and ecological functions without human interference.

Soft release a soft or gradual release. This involves providing the animal with support, such as supplementary feeding, once it has been released to the wild.

Veterinary treatment the art and science of veterinary surgery and veterinary medicine.

Wildlife Australian native animals.

Wildlife Regulation the Nature Conservation (Wildlife Management) Regulation 2006.

Other terms are defined in the Act and the Regulation.

Disclaimer

While this document has been prepared with care, it contains general information and does not profess to offer legal, professional or commercial advice. The Queensland Government accepts no liability for any external decisions or actions taken on the basis of this document. Persons external to the Department of Environment and Resource Management should satisfy themselves independently and by consulting their own professional advisers before embarking on any proposed course of action.



Appendix 1: Minimum cage sizes In the design of any bird-cage, the ratio between the lengths of the two longest straight lines which can be measured on the floor of the cage and at right angles to each other shall not exceed 4:1, unless the shorter of those two lines is at least 900mm long.

The length of this line should be at least twice the wingspan of the largest bird to be kept in the cage.

Birds: Indoor cage dimensions


NOTE: Birds specified below are

examples.

Minimum Floor area

(cm2)

Number of birds

Minimum height (cm)

Increased floor area

for each additional bird

(cm2)

100mm (10cm) e.g. finches

1000 (e.g. 32 x 32cm)

1 34 500

200mm (20cm) e.g. Neophema, budgerigars, lorikeets (except rainbow and red-collared)

1600 (e.g. 40 x 40cm)

1 34 800

300mm (30cm) e.g. rosellas, cockatiels, rainbow lorikeets and bronzewing pigeons

5000 (e.g. 70 x 70cm)

1 90 2500

400mm (40cm) e.g. king parrots, galahs and long-billed corellas

10,000 (e.g. 100 x 100cm)

1 90 5000

500mm (50cm) e.g. sulphur-crested cockatoos

15,000 (e.g. 120 x 120cm)

1 150 7500



Birds: Outdoor cage dimensions.


NOTE: Birds specified below are

examples.

Minimum Floor area

(cm2) Numberof birds

Minimum height (cm)

Increased floor area

for each additional bird

(cm2)

100mm (10cm) e.g. finches

3700 (e.g. 60 x 60cm)

1 60 1800

200mm (20cm) e.g. Neophema, budgerigars, lorikeets (except rainbow and red-collared)

7200 (e.g. 85 x 85cm)

1 60 3600

300mm (30cm) e.g. rosellas, cockatiels, rainbow lorikeets and bronzewing pigeons

10,000 (e.g. 100 x 100cm)

1 90 5000

400mm (40cm) e.g. king parrots, galahs and long-billed corellas

15,000 (e.g. 122 x 122cm)

1 90 7500

500mm (50cm) e.g. sulphur-crested cockatoos

25,000 (e.g. 158 x 158cm)

1 150 12,500



Wading birds

Wading birds require shallow areas providing soft substrate and natural feeding opportunities. Failure to provide these conditions may lead to chronic foot problems.

Group

NOTE: Birds specified below are examples.

MinimumFloor area

(m2)

No. of

birds

Minimumheight

(m)

For fully enclosed aviaries

Pond size as % of total floor area

Increased area of floor and

pond for each additional bird

(m2)

Group 1 10–30cm birds e.g. dotterels, crakes, plovers

20 4 2 25% 2

Group 2 35–50cm birds e.g. grebes, maned duck, teal

30 4 3 30% 3

Group 3 55–70cm birds e.g. black duck, small egrets and herons

40 6 4 35% 4

Group 4 75–95cm birds e.g. spoonbills, ibis, large egrets, cormorants, swamp hens

75 6 4

35% 4

Group 5 100–165cm birds e.g. pelicans, swans

100 2 3 60% 25

Group 6 100–160cm birds e.g. magpie geese, brolgas

150 2 4 20% 30

Note: The requirement for pond size to be percentage of total floor area does not apply if the pond size exceeds 100m2.



Reptiles

Only compatible animals may be housed together.

Type of animal Minimum floor area

(cm2)

Maximum number of

animals

Minimum height (cm)

Increased floor area for each

additional animal (cm2)

Tortoises/Turtles (freshwater)

Up to 10cm length 1600

(e.g. 40 x 40cm) 1 20 400

Over 10cm length. 20,000

(e.g. 141 x 141cm) 1 20 10,000

Snakes

Small terrestrial of <60cm in length. e.g. adult crowned snakes or juvenile pythons

1800 (e.g. 42 x 42cm) 2 30 900

Less than 1.2 metres in length. e.g. Children's python, death adder and tiger snake

4000 (e.g. 63 x 63cm) 2 50 2000

Less than 2.5 metres in length. e.g. eastern brown, taipan and mulga snake

15,000 (e.g. 122 x 122cm) 1 120 7500

Tree snakes up to 1.2 metres in length.

4800 (e.g. 69 x 69cm) 2 80 2400

Large pythons up to 2.5 metres in length. e.g. diamond python, carpet python, water and amethystine pythons

20,000 (e.g. 141 x 141cm) 1 150 10,000

Note: Snakes longer than 2.5 metres require a minimum area of half their length squared.

Lizards

Skinks, dragons and water dragons

10,000 (e.g. 100 x 100cm) 1 100 5000

Goannas 45,000

(e.g. 212 x 212cm) 1 200 20,000



Mammals

Only compatible animals may be housed together.


(m2)

Maximum number of

animals

Minimum height (m)


additional animal (m2)

Hopping mice, dunnarts 1 2 0.5* 0.25

Kowaris, antechinus 2 2 0.5* 0.5

Feathertail gliders 5 4 2* 1.5

Small quolls, phascogales 10 2 2* 5

All possums, sugar and squirrel gliders

10 2 3* 5

Yellow-bellied and greater gliders 20 1 3* 10

Potoroos and bettongs 20 1 2* 10

Bandicoots 20 1 1.5 10

Echidnas 20 1 1 10

Koalas 40 1 1.5 10

Wallabies less than 10kg 100 1 1.5 50

Wallabies greater than 10kg / pademelons

300 1 1.5 150

Kangaroos 1000 1 2 500

Note: * denotes roofed enclosures.

• Height for hopping mice, dunnarts, antechinus and kowaris is above substrate.

• Bettong males should not be housed together.

• Wombats prefer to be solitary in permanent confinement.

• Pademelons require dense cover, a minimum of 1.5 metres above ground.



Raptors and other carnivorous birds

Cage sizes are for two birds


(m2)

Minimum width (m)

Minimum height (m)


additional bird (m2)

Barn owl, southern boobook, grass owl, nankeen kestrel, Pacific baza, letter-winged kite, black-shouldered kite, magpies, ravens, kookaburras, frogmouths.

15 2.5 3 5

Sooty owl, masked owl, barking owl, rufous owl.

21 3 3 7

Powerful owl, Australian hobby, swamp harrier, spotted harrier, little eagle, whistling kite, brahminy kite, square-tailed kite, black kite.

24 3 3 8

Brown falcon, grey falcon, black falcon, peregrine falcon, red goshawk, grey goshawk, brown goshawk, collared sparrowhawk, osprey.

24 3 3.5 8

Wedge-tailed eagle, white-bellied sea eagle.

50 5 4.5 17


Fauna Management Procedure - Australia Pacific LNG · Fauna Management Procedure Q-LNG01-15-AP-...

Documents

Transcript of Fauna Management Procedure - Australia Pacific LNG · Fauna Management Procedure Q-LNG01-15-AP-...