STAGE ONE FAUNA SURVEY AND MANAGEMENT … · 2017. 5. 10. · Fauna Survey and Management...
Transcript of STAGE ONE FAUNA SURVEY AND MANAGEMENT … · 2017. 5. 10. · Fauna Survey and Management...
STAGE ONE FAUNA SURVEY AND
MANAGEMENT PRESCRIPTIONS FOR
WHITE CLIFFS TO CAMERON BIGHT
FORESHORE RESERVE,
BLAIRGOWRIE,
NOVEMBER, 2006 TO JULY, 2007.
Field Work and Report Writing by Malcolm Legg
Mal’s Environmental
&
Ecological Services
ABN 70 165 787 370
PO BOX 247
Shoreham 3916
Ph 59863448
M 0438 898 325
Email [email protected]
Fauna Survey and Management Prescriptions for White Cliffs to Cameron Bight Foreshore Reserve, Blairgowrie,
November, 2006 to July, 2007. 2
FAUNA SURVEY AND MANAGEMENT PRESCRIPTIONS FOR WHITE CLIFFS TO
CAMERON BIGHT FORESHORE RESERVE, BLAIRGOWRIE,
NOVEMBER, 2006 TO JULY, 2007.
INTRODUCTION
Malcolm Legg from Mal’s Environmental & Ecological Services was commissioned by the White Cliffs to
Cameron Bight Foreshore Reserve Committee of Management to conduct a stage one fauna survey along
the Cameron Bight Foreshore from Canterbury-Jetty Road to the western boundary (Sullivan’s Bay),
Blairgowrie, Victoria. The study was carried out between November, 2006 and July, 2007. The stage two
fauna survey (from White Cliffs to Canterbury-Jetty Road) will commence in August, 2007.
During this survey Amphibians, Reptiles, Birds and Mammals were sampled along the Cameron Bight
Foreshore.
Human activity has altered the habitat provided for fauna in several areas due to invasion by noxious and
environmental weeds, along with clearing of indigenous vegetation for camping sites, bathing boxes,
amenities, car parks, walking tracks, roads and recreational uses etc. The hinterland has been severely
cleared and now gives way to intense housing, retail shops and indigenous vegetation has been replaced
with exotic vegetation usually associated with urban development. The unnecessary pressures of the
introduction of vermin towards native fauna have also played a large impact on what previous fauna existed
and what remains today.
Local extinction of several animals has occurred in the greater area due to habitat destruction and
degradation and from the impacts of vermin, e.g. Tree Goanna, Emu, Australian Bustard, Grey-crowned
Babbler, Eastern Quoll, Spot-tailed Quoll, Southern Brown Bandicoot, Long-nosed Bandicoot, Wombat,
Eastern Pygmy Possum, the Feathertail Glider and possibly the Tasmanian Pademelon etc, while several
species are becoming scarce.
SUMMARY
This report documents the significant taxa, their habitat and management prescriptions, along with a
complete list of taxa recorded during the survey throughout White Cliffs to Cameron Bight Foreshore
Reserve. White Cliffs to Cameron Bight Foreshore Reserve will now be mentioned as either ‘the foreshore’
or ‘the study site’ and Blairgowrie Marina as ‘the marina’ throughout this report.
Taxa detected along the study site includes; one species of Amphibian, six species of Reptiles (of which
five species are lizards and one species is a snake), 48 species of Birds (of which four species are
introduced) and 15 species of Mammals (of which four species are introduced). The environs of the study
site can be considered to be of regional significance, with the taxa throughout the study site listed at local,
regional, State and National levels. This is due to mass depletion of natural vegetation and fauna
populations on the Mornington Peninsula and loss of some significant species. Overall the significant taxa
detected includes three species of high local significance, 11 species of regional significance, six species of
State significance, one species of National significance and the remaining native species are of local
significance based upon large-scale depletion of habitat and fauna populations on the Peninsula.
Weeds, vermin and human disturbance are the greatest causes of local extinction of habitat and fauna
populations on the Peninsula and within the environs of the study site. Ongoing weed control and
eradication, along with regeneration of the original vegetation communities (EVC’s) throughout the site,
including possibly carrying out controlled burns in some areas, is recommended as high priority.
Introduced fauna can cause unnecessary pressure on remaining native fauna and should be eradicated or
controlled.
STUDY AREA
The study area is approximately four kilometers long which encompasses a thin strip of highly disturbed
Coastal Alkaline Scrub, a small section of Coast Banksia Woodland, sandy primary dunes and beaches,
intertidal sand banks, and Port Phillip Bay. (Melways reference map nos. 167 J2 to 157 G10). Altitude
Fauna Survey and Management Prescriptions for White Cliffs to Cameron Bight Foreshore Reserve, Blairgowrie,
November, 2006 to July, 2007. 3
varies from sea level to app. 5m. Geologically there is one soil type which is derived from Aeolian
Deposits containing subdued dunes made up of siliceous and calcareous sand and aeolianite. This was
formed in the Pleistocene Period of the Quaternary Era.
PROFILES
*Cover photo: Looking east along the foreshore.
Profiles 2, 3, 4, 5, 6, 7, 8 and below were photographed on the foreshore by the author while conducting
this survey.
Profiles 1, 9, 10 & 11 were photographed by the author at nearby locations over the last 12 months.
Little Pied Cormorants roosting on a groyne east of the marina.
Fauna Survey and Management Prescriptions for White Cliffs to Cameron Bight Foreshore Reserve, Blairgowrie,
November, 2006 to July, 2007. 4
CONTENTS PAGE
NUMBER
INTRODUCTION …………………………………………………………………………………. 2
SUMMARY…………………………………………………………………………………………. 2
STUDY AREA………………………………………………………………………………………. 2-3
PROFILES…………………………………………………………………………………………... 3
CONTENTS…………………………………………………………………………………………. 4-5
1.0 METHODOLOGY………………………………………………………………………… 6
1.1 Field Work…………………………………………………………………….…………… 6
1.2 Data Storage……………………………………………………………………………….. 6
1.3 Research Permit……………………………………………………………………………. 6
1.4 Defining significant Habitats………………………………………………………………. 6
1.5 Habitat Types………………………………………………………………………………. 6
2.0 RESULTS………………………………………………………………………………….. 7-10
2.1 Amphibians……………..………………………………………………………………….. 7
2.2 Reptiles…………………………………………………………………………………….. 7
2.3 Birds……………………………………………………………………………………….. 7-8
2.4 Mammals……………………………………………………………………………………8
2.5 Sampling Survey…………………………………………………………………………… 8-9
2.5.1 Elliot traps…………………………………………………………………………………. 9
2.5.2 Sheets of iron………………………………………………...…………………………..… 9
2.6 Spotlighting……..…………………………………………………………….......................9-10
2.7 Anabat II Bat Detector…………………………………..………………………….…..…. 10
3.0 DISCUSSION……………………………………………………..…..…….…………….. 11-16
3.1 Amphibians………………………………………………………………………………… 11
3.2 Reptiles…………………………………………………………………………………..… 11-12
3.3 Birds…….………………………………………………………………………………..… 12-14
3.4 Mammals..………………………………………………………………………………..… 14-16
4.0 FAUNA WHICH USE TO OCCUR OR POSSIBLY STILL DO OCCUR IN THE REGION BUT
NOT DETECTED DURING THIS SURVEY…………………………..………………… 22-23
5.0 FAUNAL SIGNIFICANCE WITHIN THE STUDY SITE…..….…………………….…..24-26
5.1 Habitat Significance……………………………………………………………………….. 24
5.2 Defining Significance species…….……………………………………………………….. 24
5.3 Legislation and Government Policy……………………………………………………..… 26
6.0 MANAGEMENT PRESCRIPTIONS FOR THE FORESHORE.……………………........27-29
6.1 Management Requirements for Table eight….…………………………………..………… 27
6.2 Continuing the fauna survey……………..………………………………………………… 27
6.3 Weeds……………………………………………………………………………………….27
6.4 Introduced Birds…………………………………………………………………….………27
6.5 Fox Control Methods………………………………………………………………………. 27
6.6 Cat Control…………………………………………………………………..………………28
6.7 Control of Introduced Rodents…………………………………………………………….. 28
6.8 Dogs…………………………………………………………………………………………28
6.9 Nesting boxes and ground logs…………………………………………….……………… 28
6.10 Controlled Burns…………………..………………………………………………………..28
6.11 Corridors……………………………………………………………………………………28-29
6.12 Fencing off remnant veg……………………………………………………………………29
Fauna Survey and Management Prescriptions for White Cliffs to Cameron Bight Foreshore Reserve, Blairgowrie,
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TABLES
Table 1 Bird species and numbers recorded between Canterbury-Jetty Road and the marina…...… 7
Table 2 Bird species and numbers recorded between the marina and Sullivan’s Bay…………….. 7-8
Table 3 Taxa sampled in Elliot Traps within the foreshore.………………….………….………… 9
Table 4 Taxa sampled under sheet iron……………………..…………………..……….…………. 9
Table 5 Taxa observed whilst spotlighting throughout the foreshore….…..…………………...........9-10
Table 6 Micro bats identified from the Anabat II Bat Detector whilst spotlighting in the foreshore. 10
Table 7 Significant fauna within the foreshore……..……………………………………………… 24-25
Table 8 Significant Taxa and their habitat requirements and management actions…………………25-26
PROFILES
Profile 1 Southern Bull Frog…………………………………………………………………………. 16
Profile 2 Common Blue-tongue…..…………………………………………………………………. 17
Profile 3 Australian Pelican……………………….……………………..…………………….……. 17
Profile 4 Pacific Gull & Little Pied Cormorant………………………..……………………….……. 18
Profile 5 Black Swans……………………….………………………………………………………. 18
Profile 6 Crested Terns……………………………..…………………………………….…….……. 19
Profile 7 Nankeen Kestrel feeding…………………………………………………………….……. 19
Profile 8 Nankeen kestrel hovering…………………………………………………………….……. 20
Profile 9 White-footed Dunnart…………….………………………………………………….……. 20
Profile 10 White-striped Free-tail Bat……..………….……………………………………….……. 21
Profile 11 Swamp Rat..…………..…………………………………………………………….……. 21
REFERENCES……………………………………………………………………………………… 30
APPENDIX 1. AMPHIBIANS RECORDED ON THE FORESHORE …………..………….……. 31
APPENDIX 2. REPTILES RECORDED ON THE FORESHORE …………..….….…………….. 31
APPENDIX 3. COASTAL BIRDS RECORDED ON THE FORESHORE………………….…….. 31
APPENDIX 4. WOODLAND BIRDS RECORDED ON THE FORESHORE …………………......32
APPENDIX 5. MAMMALS RECORDED ON THE FORESHORE ………………..…………….. 33
RESEARCH PERMIT……………………………………………………………………….............34-35
MAP 1 -Locations of sampling sites………..………………………………………..…….……… 36
Fauna Survey and Management Prescriptions for White Cliffs to Cameron Bight Foreshore Reserve, Blairgowrie,
November, 2006 to July, 2007. 6
1.0 METHODOLOGY
1.1 Field Work Fauna surveys were carried out using the following methods:
-Amphibians were identified by sight or hand capture and listening to vocal calls.
-Reptiles were identified by sight, hand capture, sampling in Elliot traps and capture under logs
and tin.
-Birds were identified by sight, their calls and during spotlight walks.
-Mammals were identified by sampling in Elliot traps, pitfall traps, hair tubes, analysing scats, by
vocal calls and sight at night.
-Bats were detected using the Anabat II Bat Detector which records their echolocation
calls and identifies the species on computer using specialized software.
-Spotlighting was carried out over three nights.
Taxa were identified using reference literature including Cogger (2000), Menkhorst (1996), Simpson and
Day (1999) and Strahan (1998).
1.2 Data Storage
Listings of all taxa detected throughout this survey have been submitted to the Department of Sustainability
and Environment, (Nicholson Street) and recorded on the Atlas of Victoria Wildlife and the new
Mornington Peninsula Wildlife Atlas for future reference.
1.3 Research Permit
All fauna sampling within the foreshore reserve was carried out LEGALLY under Research Permit
numbers 10002918 and 10003956.
1.4 Defining Significant Habitats The evaluation of habitat does not have any rigid guidelines. An area can have high habitat value for any or
all of the following reasons:
-it is a representative or remnant community,
-it constitutes a wildlife corridor,
-it contains important breeding sites,
-it has unusual ecology or community structure,
-it has high species richness.
1.5 Habitat Types
The foreshore reserve has varying habitat types consisting Coastal Alkaline Scrub, Coastal Dunes, exposed
intertidal sand banks, groins and Port Phillip Bay. Within the Coastal Alkaline Scrub and the primary dunes
we find the reptiles sampled during this survey, especially where intact understories and on ground logs
persist. Woodland bird and mammal species are also found in the canopy, coastal thickets and dense
understories. The groins and exposed sand banks provide roosting sites for coastal birds and Port Phillip
Bay provides ample food source for Marine Mammals and Coastal Birds.
Fauna Survey and Management Prescriptions for White Cliffs to Cameron Bight Foreshore Reserve, Blairgowrie,
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2.0 RESULTS
2.1 Amphibians
One species of frogs was sampled at the study site during this survey and were mainly found at night
jumping along tracks in late autumn before rain.
2.2 Reptiles
Six species of reptiles were sampled during this survey within the study site. Five of these species are
lizards and one species is a snake. The majority of reptiles were sampled by sight and hand capture and the
diversity represents a moderate number of species which would likely occur in such an area.
2.3 Birds
48 species of birds were sampled during this survey of which 44 species are indigenous and four species
are introduced. The study site represents a fairly good diversity of coastal birds and a relatively poor
diversity of woodland bird species which would likely occur in such an area. In the tables below ‘B’ –
denotes when the species was breeding.
Table 1: Bird species and numbers recorded for each month from Canterbury-Jetty Road to Marina
Common Name Nov Dec Jan Feb Mar Apr May Jun Jul
Australasian Gannet 4 6 3 2 2 2 2 2 2
Australian Pelican 2 2 2 2
Pied Cormorant 3 3
Little Pied Cormorant 3 2 4 6 8
Great Cormorant 4 3 3 1
Black Swan 8
Australian White Ibis 20+
Straw-necked Ibis 5+
Pacific Golden Plover 1
Silver Gull 50+ 30+ 30+ 25 20+ 20+ 20+ 30+ 30+
Pacific Gull 5 7 7 7 6 4 4 4 4
Kelp Gull 2
Crested Tern 4 2 2 2 2
Black-shouldered Kite 1 1
Whistling Kite 1
Nankeen Kestrel 1
*Spotted Turtle-Dove 4B 4B 4B 4 4 4 4 4 4
White-throated Needletail 11
Superb Fairy-wren 20B 20B 20B 15 20 20 20 30+ 30+
Spotted Pardalote 20+ 20+ 20+
White-browed Scrubwren 5B 5B 5B 5 5 5 5 5 5
Brown Thornbill 40B 40B 40B 40 40 40+ 40+ 50 50
Red Wattlebird 15B 18B 20B 16 10 4 2
Eastern Yellow Robin 2B 2B 2B 2 2 2 2 2 2
Willy Wagtail 2 2
Australian Magpie 4B 5B 5 5
Australian Raven 3 2
Welcome Swallow 3B 6B 6 6
Silvereye 10B 15B 15B 10
*Common Blackbird 2B 2B 2B 2 2 2 2 2 2
Table 2: Bird species and numbers recorded for each month from the Marina to Sullivans Bay
Common Name Nov Dec Jan Feb Mar Apr May Jun Jul
Australasian Gannet 2 3 3 2 4 4 2 3
Australian Pelican 2 2
Fauna Survey and Management Prescriptions for White Cliffs to Cameron Bight Foreshore Reserve, Blairgowrie,
November, 2006 to July, 2007. 8
Common Name Nov Dec Jan Feb Mar Apr May Jun Jul
Pied Cormorant 4 4 7 7 7 5 4 2
Little Pied Cormorant 2 2 3 2
Great Cormorant 2 2
Little Black Cormorant 40+ 40+
Australian White Ibis 20+
Straw-necked Ibis 10+
Silver Gull 50+ 50+ 50+ 50+ 30+ 20+ 30+ 40+ 50+
Pacific Gull 5 10 3 5 6 6 6
Caspian Tern 2 2
Crested Tern 12 12 6 3
*Spotted Turtle-Dove 6B 6B 5B 4 5 6 4 4 4
Galah 3
Rainbow Lorikeet 3 4 4
Crimson Rosella 2 2
White-throated Needletail 10+
Superb Fairy-wren 45B 45B 30B 25 40 45 50 50 50
Spotted Pardalote 35 30
White-browed Scrubwren 30B 30B 25B 20 20 20 30 40 60
Brown Thornbill 35B 35B 40B 45 45 40 50 60 60
Red Wattlebird 20B 20B 18B 17 10 6 4
Little Wattlebird 4B 4B 4B 5
Spiny-cheeked Honeyeater 2B 2B 2B 2
Yellow-faced Honeyeater 3 3
Singing Honeyeater 2B 2B 4 4 4 4 2 2 2
New Holland Honeyeater 2
Eastern Spinebill 2 2
Grey Shrike-thrush 2B 2B 2B 2
Grey Fantail 2B 2B 2B 2 2
Grey Butcherbird 2B 2B 2B 2
Australian Magpie 6B 6B 5B 3 3 6 6 4 4
Australian Raven 4 4 4 2 3 4 4 4 4
Little Raven 2
Welcome Swallow 4 5
Silvereye 30B 30B 40B 50 40 35 20
Bassian Ground Thrush 2
*Common Blackbird 6B 6B 5B 4 4 4 4 2 2
*Common Starling 10+
B
10+
B
10+
B
*Common Myna 4B 4B 8B 10
2.4 Mammals
15 species of mammals were sampled during this survey within the study site, which represents a fairly
poor diversity of species from the greater area. Of these 11 are native species and four species are
introduced.
2.5 Sampling Survey
Elliot traps and sheet iron traps were deployed throughout the study site in order to sample taxa usually
sampled in those traps.
Pitfall traps, cage traps and hair tubes were not deployed as interference from the public was inevitable.
Taxa usually sampled in these traps were sampled by other means already discussed in methodology.
Fauna Survey and Management Prescriptions for White Cliffs to Cameron Bight Foreshore Reserve, Blairgowrie,
November, 2006 to July, 2007. 9
2.5.1 Elliot trap survey
20 Elliot traps were deployed along two transects within the Coastal Alkaline Scrub in the revegetated area
towards the western end of the foreshore in appropriate habitat which was likely to contain fauna for
sampling and interference from the public was unlikely (refer to map 1 for transect locations). After
carrying out 360 trapping nights the taxa sampled was the White-browed Scrubwren, White-footed
Dunnart, Swamp Rat and the introduced *Black Rat and *House Mouse. The bait used to lure the animals
into the traps was peanut-butter, honey and oats.
Table 3: Fauna sampled in Elliot traps throughout the study site in winter, 2007.
Species Date Number Area detected
White-browed Scrubwren 31/07/07 1 Transect 1, trap 2.
White-footed Dunnart 16/07/07 1 male Transect 2, trap 10.
Swamp Rat 15/07/07 3 Transect 1, traps 5, 6, 7,
15/07/07 2 Transect 2, traps 4 & 13.
16/07/07 2 Transect 2, traps 8 & 12.
17/07/07 4 Transect 1, traps 9, 11, 14 & 18.
17/07/07 1 Transect 2, trap 16
*Black Rat 15/07/07 1 Transect 1, trap 2.
16/07/07 2 Transect 2, traps 4 & 7.
31/07/07 1 Transect 1, trap 1.
*House Mouse 16/07/07 3 Transect 2, traps 1, 19 & 20.
17/07/07 2 Transect 2, traps 18 & 19.
2.5.2 Fauna sampled under sheet iron traps through out the study site.
A sheet of iron was placed out at each of the above two transects in order to lure reptiles and small
mammals under its cover. Over 200 hundred trapping nights were conducted and the fauna sampled
included skinks. No snakes or mammals were sampled under the iron.
Table 4: Fauna sampled under sheets of iron placed throughout the study site.
Species Date Number Area detected
Eastern Three-lined Skink 02/03/07 2 Sheet iron one.
22/03/07 2 As above.
Garden Skink 10/03/07 1 Sheet iron two.
15/03/07 2 As above.
Metallic Skink 05/03/07 1 Sheet iron one.
Weasel Skink 08/03/07 1 As above.
19/03/07 2 As above.
Common Blue-tongue 05/03/07 2 Sheet iron two.
2.6 Spotlighting
Spotlighting was carried out over three warm nights in December 2006, February and March 2007 in
excellent conditions to sample maximum taxa. Below in the table is the taxa recorded during spotlighting.
Table 5: Fauna observed during spotlighting throughout the study site.
Species Date Number
observed
Area Observed
Amphibians
Southern Bull Frog 24/03/07 2 Jumping along tracks.
Common Brushtail Possum 15/12/06 2 Camping grounds.
12/02/07 4 As above.
24/03/07 3 As above.
Common Ringtail Possum 15/12/06 20+ Through out thickets.
12/02/07 20+ As above.
24/03/07 20+ As above.
Fauna Survey and Management Prescriptions for White Cliffs to Cameron Bight Foreshore Reserve, Blairgowrie,
November, 2006 to July, 2007. 10
Species Date Number
observed
Area Observed
Bat sps. 15/12/06 3 Through out.
12/02/07 3 As above.
Bat sps. 24/03/07 4 As above.
*Fox 15/12/06 3 Through out.
12/02/07 5 As above.
24/03/07 4 As above.
*Feral Cat 12/02/07 2 As above.
24/03/07 3 As above
2.7 Anabat II Bat Detector
Micro bat echolocation calls were recorded over three nights through out the study site and analyzed by the
author.
Table 6: Micro bats recorded on the Anabat II Bat Detector through out the study site.
Species Date Number
recorded
Area Observed
White-stripped Free-tail Bat 24/03/07 5 Along main path.
Gould’s Wattled Bat 15/12/06 14 As above.
12/02/07 24 As above.
24/03/07 15 As above.
Lesser Long-eared Bat 24/03/07 4 As above.
Little Forest Bat 15/12/06 6 As above.
12/02/07 10 As above.
24/03/07 14 As above.
Fauna Survey and Management Prescriptions for White Cliffs to Cameron Bight Foreshore Reserve, Blairgowrie,
November, 2006 to July, 2007. 11
3.0 DISCUSSION
The following discusses general observations and some biology of the taxa detected during the study time
throughout the foreshore.
3.1 Amphibians
One species of frogs was found to inhabit the foreshore and is discussed below.
Southern Bullfrog
The occasional specimen of this large burrowing frog was seen during spotlight walks. They are remnant
populations from inundated dune swales which use to persist through out the Nepean Peninsula and
probably from Sorrento Lake. They can generally be heard calling from spring to autumn from such soaks
and semi to permanent water bodies.
The male’s call is a short musical, explosive note producing a resonant ‘bonk’ and usually repeated every
few seconds (Hero, Littlejohn and Marantelli 1991).
3.2 Reptiles
Lizards and one species of snake were the only reptiles sampled within the foreshore. Species are quite
diverse along the foreshore due to the habitat types. The Skink family is the most diverse, with five species
recorded. Below is a description and some general biology of the reptiles identified in this survey.
3.2.1 Lizards
Eastern Three-lined Skink
The Eastern Three-lined Skink is confined to sandy soils along the foreshore. During the breeding season
the males displays an orange throat. After mating three to eight eggs are laid in a clutch in warm moist
locations under logs or amongst leaf-litter.
Small Skinks
These include the Garden Skink, Metallic Skink and the Weasel Skink. These skinks were occasionally to
commonly seen through out, during warmer months and found under tin and logs during cooler months.
Some were caught under corrugated iron sheets and all appear to be relatively sparse to common
throughout the foreshore where appropriate habitat still exists.
The Garden Skinks are quite common where indigenous vegetation still exists with some understorey and
fallen logs. They lay two to five soft-shelled eggs, under logs or thick humus in early summer, which hatch
approximately two months later (Jenkins and Bartell 1980).
The Metallic Skink is appears to be rare and is confined to the coastal fringe where understories still exist.
They give birth between one and seven live young nearly a year after copulation (Jenkins and Bartell
1980).
The Weasel Skink is a shade hugging species and lays three to five soft-shelled eggs in communal
oviposition sites under logs or in humus. There sites are visited by the same individuals annually (Jenkins
and Bartell 1980).
Blue-tongue Lizards
The Common Blue-tongue was observed sunning itself outside boast sheds, on the edges of understories
and other vegetation during warm mornings and sampled under sheets of corrugated iron during cooler
periods. They appear to be relatively common throughout parts of the foreshore.
This species of Blue-tongue Lizard gives birth to live young numbering between ten and twenty
individuals. They are omnivorous in their choice of food, mainly preying upon insects, snails and slugs,
small invertebrates and a wide range of vegetable matter. They requires intact understoreys with a mixture
of graminoids and herb species, along with logs and even old building materials scattered on the ground in
which to hide, breed and feed.
Fauna Survey and Management Prescriptions for White Cliffs to Cameron Bight Foreshore Reserve, Blairgowrie,
November, 2006 to July, 2007. 12
3.2.2 Snakes
Mainland Tiger Snake
One specimen was observed near the western end of the study site sunning itself on the edge of vegetation.
This large powerful snake mainly hunts rodents within the foreshore and is extremely toxic to humans.
However this is a protected species and people are bitten only when they harass or try to kill snakes. If they
are left alone then they leave us alone. The female gives birth to 20 or more live young.
3.3 Birds
A reasonably medium diversity of birds inhabits the foreshore but in areas lacks some middle-sized birds
such as honeyeaters and whistlers etc. This is probably due to domination by larger, more aggressive birds
and loss of habitat through out the foreshore and the greater area. Several of these species are now rare
within the study site and face extinction over the next ten years if habitat is not re-established immediately.
The species observed during this survey are discussed below.
3.3.1 Coastal Birds
Coastal Bird species were present along the coast where several species congregate on the exposed sand
banks, groynes and around the marina.
Australasian Gannet
This large majestic coastal bird was occasionally observed diving for fish off the foreshore. They nest at
Pope’s Eye in Southern Port Phillip Bay.
Australian Pelican
This large bird was occasionally seen flying overhead where they are usually encountered at nearby Capel
Sound Foreshore and Tootgarook Swamp.
Cormorants
The Pied, Little Pied, Great and Little Black Cormorants were observed diving for fish or sunning
themselves on piers, boats, groynes and the exposed sand banks at high tide. They all breed elsewhere.
During November and December 2006 several Little Black Cormorants were observed roosting on the
exposed sand banks next to the jetty.
Black Swan
During late autumn up to 10 individuals were observed congregating around the exposed sand banks
between Canterbury-Jetty Road and the marina to feed on sea grasses or roost on the exposed sand banks.
Ibis
Both the Australian White and Straw-necked Ibis were occasionally seen flying over head, the Straw-
necked Ibis being more common as they nest and roost on Mud Island.
Plovers
During late 2006 one individual Pacific Golden Plover was observed east of the marina on the beach. This
Northern Hemisphere migratory species is a rare summer visitor to the Mornington Peninsula.
Gulls
The Pacific Gull and Silver Gull were seen flying overhead or roosting on the exposed sand banks groynes
and beaches at high tide, however they breed elsewhere. The occasional Kelp Gull was also observed on
sand banks.
Terns
Crested Terns were observed flying overhead and diving for fish or roosting on the exposed sand banks and
groynes at high tide. The occasional Caspian Tern was observed diving for fish out from the marina and is
a Northern Hemisphere migratory bird.
Fauna Survey and Management Prescriptions for White Cliffs to Cameron Bight Foreshore Reserve, Blairgowrie,
November, 2006 to July, 2007. 13
3.3.2 Woodland Birds
Species of woodland birds were found to inhabit the various habitats along the foreshore but some species
which usually utilize these types of habitat were absent or in very small numbers. They are discussed
below.
Birds of Prey
Three species of raptor were recorded along the foreshore and are discussed below:
The occasional Black-shouldered Kite, Whistling Kite and Nankeen Kestrel were observed hunting along
the foreshore for small rodents or fish. They were constantly harassed by smaller birds and nest and breed
elsewhere. The smaller raptors were observed catching and eating mice.
Doves
The introduced Spotted Turtle-Dove appears to be relatively common throughout the foreshore, especially
in the disturbed areas. They bred and feed within these areas and are extremely competitive towards the
native pigeons, for territory and food. Unfortunately campers and local residents feed them.
Galah
Small numbers of Galahs are occasionally seen flying overhead or feeding in trees nearby. They breed else
where.
Lorikeets
Small flocks of Rainbow Lorikeets were commonly to occasionally seen flying overhead and feeding in
nearby exotic gums and Moonah whilst flowering. They breed in tree hollows elsewhere.
Rosellas
The Crimson Rosella was occasionally observed along the study site in small numbers. They breed in tree
hollows elsewhere.
White-throated Needletail
Needletails are spring/summer migrants from Korea and Japan. They were seen flying high on thermals
over the foreshore, probably feeding on insects. They can often be seen feeding on insects ahead of summer
storms.
Superb Fairy-wren
This species is a common breeding resident found along the coastal fringe which still contains dense
middle and understories, particularly dense stands of graminoids and low shrub species. Harems of up to
ten individuals were commonly encountered. Numerous small harems were established during late summer
and autumn. The populations decrease during winter until the following spring when numbers usually
increase.
Spotted Pardalote
Small flocks were mainly heard calling along the site during autumn. They breed elsewhere.
White-browed Scrubwren
This bird is a common breeding resident of thick undergrowth similar to the Superb Fairy-wren and is
usually seen in small flocks, or in the company of other small birds in feeding groups such as, fairy wrens,
thornbills and finches.
Thornbills
The Brown Thornbill is a common breeding and foraging resident of thickets and canopies throughout the
foreshore where they breed.
Honeyeaters
Seven species of honeyeaters were recorded throughout the entire foreshore, particularly where various
Moonah stands and coastal thickets occur. The Red and Little Wattlebirds are breeding residents
Fauna Survey and Management Prescriptions for White Cliffs to Cameron Bight Foreshore Reserve, Blairgowrie,
November, 2006 to July, 2007. 14
throughout the foreshore, the Red Wattlebird being more numerous. Numbers increased when the Moonah
flowered. The Spiny-cheeked Honeyeater was occasionally observed along the western end in Moonah.
Yellow-faced Honeyeater was occasionally observed feeding in coastal scrub, whereas the Singing
Honeyeater was recorded in low numbers on the western side of the marina where it was recorded
breeding. The New Holland Honeyeater and Eastern Spinebill are occasional visitors to the area.
Robins
The Eastern Yellow Robin was observed breeding east of the marina and population numbers are extremely
low.
Grey Shrike Thrush
This medium-sized pretty bird is also extremely low in population numbers and only a breeding pair was
observed towards the western end of the foreshore.
Flycatchers
Like the previous species the Grey Fantails is extremely low in numbers and only one pair was observed
breeding towards the western end. They migrate to Northern Australia after breeding.
Grey Butcherbird and Australian Magpie
Both of the above species are present along the foreshore. The Butcherbirds are rare and usually seen or
heard throughout open areas and adjacent private properties and are permanent breeding residents. The
Magpies were seen in pairs or family groups on the woody fringes or open areas and are breeding residents.
Both are regularly feed by campers and local residents in surrounding private properties.
Ravens
The Australian Raven was encountered in park situations, at the marina, camping grounds and especially
flying overhead. They breed elsewhere. The occasional Little Raven was heard calling.
Welcome Swallow
Swallows were encountered mainly around the marina where they were observed aerial feeding. They build
mud nests on the sides of buildings, boat sheds etc and migrate to Northern Australia after breeding.
Silvereye
A resident breeding species, the Silvereye forms flocks of up to thirty plus individuals after the breeding
season. Some Silvereyes migrate out of the area during winter. They were readily seen feeding in the
coastal thickets.
Bassian Thrush
Another extremely rare species the Bassian Thrush was encountered amongst dense coastal thickets during
winter, 2007. This species migrates from the Great Dividing Range to lower elevations such as the
Mornington Peninsula during winter.
3.3.3 Introduced Birds
The Blackbird is reasonable common throughout the foreshore and is a prolific breeder and spreader of
noxious and environmental weed seed. Both the Common Starling and Common Myna are common
species, depriving native birds and animals of nesting tree hollows. The mynas preferring nearby human
habitation whereas, starlings feed in open areas and along the foreshore feeding on ripe berries and often
forming large flocks.
3.4 Mammals
Most mammals that should occupy appropriate habitats along the foreshore were not recorded, except for
some of the more common species. Several of these species were known to occur up to 60 years ago. The
mammals recorded during this survey are discussed below.
Fauna Survey and Management Prescriptions for White Cliffs to Cameron Bight Foreshore Reserve, Blairgowrie,
November, 2006 to July, 2007. 15
3.4.1 Marsupials
White-footed Dunnart
This small carnivorous marsupial is now listed as vulnerable in the state of Victoria. It is mainly terrestrial
preferring dense poa and sword-sedge where it constructs a small nest under the grassy cover. Hollow logs
on the ground are also utilised as nesting sites. Breeding occurs for a short time in August and up to 10 are
born in the pouch. Unlike the male antechinus (which die straight after mating) the male dunnarts live until
the young are weaned and then usually dies. One specimen a male was sampled in Elliot traps towards the
western end of the study site. Habitat restoration and intense vermin control within the foreshore reserve is
essential for the survival of this beautiful species.
Common Brushtail Possum
This large arboreal possum was observed during spotlight walks in the vicinity of camping grounds. They
are relatively uncommon and feed on human scraps and in the absence of humans they feed on appropriate
vegetation and insects through out.
Common Ringtail Possum
The Common Ringtail Possum is quite common throughout the foreshore where appropriate tree thickets
occur. Here they build dreys within the canopies of these thickets. Dreys are made from strips of bark and
sticks and lined on the inside with soft leaves and other matter. A breeding pair along with two pouch
young occupies these dreys. They venture out at night to feed on leaves, flowers and insects. Their
favourite food within the foreshore is tea-tree leaves. They were commonly seen or heard at night during
the author’s spotlight walks throughout the foreshore.
3.4.2 Placental Mammals
Micro bats
Three nights of recording micro bat echolocation calls were conducted throughout this survey. They were
seen on warm nights flying past the light beam of a torch, catching and eating insects while in flight. Future
micro bat recordings could result in further species identification, as some species are common one month
and then absent the next.
All species of micro bats that occur within the foreshore are hollow dependent or roost in the rooves of
buildings. Micro bats are nocturnal, and eat three times their body weight in insects each night-making
them very important around agricultural areas. During the colder months of the year they shut down and
hibernate within tree hollows or under bark, venturing out only as climatic conditions become warmer.
Swamp Rat
This native rodent appears to occupy most areas of the foreshore which don’t become inundated with water
and have a dense understorey of various graminoids or grasses (especially within Lepidosperma gladiatum
and poa thickets). Underneath this vegetation they excavate runways and build nest chambers at the end in
burrows up to one meter long. These are apparent throughout their distribution within the foreshore. They
feed on a variety of rhizomes, seeds and other various vegetation matters from the local graminoids.
Several were sampled in Elliot traps.
Breeding occurs from spring to autumn, and three weeks after gestation three to five naked young are born
in the nest. Three to four weeks later they leave the nest as independent individuals. Mature females may
have several litters throughout the season (Menkhorst 1995).
3.4.3 Marine Mammals
The Australian Fur Seal occasionally beaches itself to rest or can be seen swimming off the marina. They
roost on man-made structures in Southern Port Phillip Bay and Seal Rocks at the mouth of Western Port
Bay.
During the last five or so winters the occasional Southern Right Whale mother and calf enters Port Phillip
Bay to seek protection from Killer Whales and sharks. Here they can be seen migrating along the
Fauna Survey and Management Prescriptions for White Cliffs to Cameron Bight Foreshore Reserve, Blairgowrie,
November, 2006 to July, 2007. 16
Mornington Peninsula Coast. When conditions are right they leave the bay and migrate north along the
Australian Coast.
The Port Phillip Bay Bottle-nosed Dolphin is considered endangered and the population is estimated at
around 100 individuals. This species is endemic to the bay and is occasionally seen swimming out from the
marina.
3.4.4 Introduced Mammals
These include the House Mouse, Black Rat, Red Fox and Feral Cat. House Mice and Black Rats were
sampled in Elliot traps and they appear to have become naturalised within the foreshore. Fox numbers
appear to be high, with an increased number of individuals and scats found along tracks during autumn.
Feral cats were occasionally observed during the day and at night. Others are probably residents throughout
and must impact on native fauna to a considerable degree.
Photo 1-Southern Bull Frog
Fauna Survey and Management Prescriptions for White Cliffs to Cameron Bight Foreshore Reserve, Blairgowrie,
November, 2006 to July, 2007. 17
Photo 2-Common Blue-tongue Lizard
Photo 3-Australian Pelican in flight over the foreshore.
Fauna Survey and Management Prescriptions for White Cliffs to Cameron Bight Foreshore Reserve, Blairgowrie,
November, 2006 to July, 2007. 18
Photo 4-Pacific Gull and Little Pied Cormorant roosting on exposed sand bank.
Photo 5-Black Swans east of the marina about to feed on sea grasses.
Fauna Survey and Management Prescriptions for White Cliffs to Cameron Bight Foreshore Reserve, Blairgowrie,
November, 2006 to July, 2007. 19
Photo 6-Crested Terns roosting on exposed sand bank.
Photo 7-Nankeen Kestrel feeding on a mouse in a Coast Banksia crown.
Fauna Survey and Management Prescriptions for White Cliffs to Cameron Bight Foreshore Reserve, Blairgowrie,
November, 2006 to July, 2007. 20
Photo 8-Nankeen Kestrel hovering over the foreshore in search of prey.
Photo 9-White-footed Dunnart
Fauna Survey and Management Prescriptions for White Cliffs to Cameron Bight Foreshore Reserve, Blairgowrie,
November, 2006 to July, 2007. 21
Photo 10-White-striped Free-tail Bat
Photo 11-Swamp Rat
Fauna Survey and Management Prescriptions for White Cliffs to Cameron Bight Foreshore Reserve, Blairgowrie,
November, 2006 to July, 2007. 22
4.0 PAST FAUNA RECORDS AND THOSE POSSIBLY OCCURRING IN THE REGION
BUT NOT DETECTED AT THE STUDY SITE DURING THIS SURVEY
The following species were not recorded within the study site during this survey, but possibly do occur, or
once did, within or near the study site as appropriate habitat exists.
Reptiles
The Common Scaly-foot Legless Lizard, Tree Goanna, Tree Dragon, Whites Skink, Lowland Copperhead,
White-lipped Snake, Eastern Brown Snake and the Eastern Small-eyed Snake could have occurred along
the study site or nearby. These species are known to occur on similar terrain throughout the Peninsula.
Birds
The over-all list is a relatively good coverage of the remaining bird populations found along the study site,
however there could be a few other species at different times of the year. Species not found during this
survey but detected by the author along nearby foreshores include several species. Species such as the Emu
and the Australian Bustard are now extinct from the Peninsula. The author’s records and the Atlas of
Victorian Wildlife cover a wider range of bird species occurring in the greater area.
Mammals
The following mammals were not detected during the survey but probably did occur within the study area
some decades ago.
Monotremes
The Short-beaked Echidna would have utilised the site, however the construction of Point Nepean Road
and suburbanisation of the greater area have lead to its extinction within the foreshore reserve.
Dasyurids
The Eastern Quoll and the Spot-tailed Quoll would have once occurred within the study area but no longer
do. The Eastern Quoll and Spot-tailed Quoll are extinct on the Mornington Peninsula.
Bandicoots
Both the Southern Brown Bandicoot and possibly the Long-nosed Bandicoot would once have occurred
throughout some parts of the study site but appear to no longer. Extensive searching throughout the area
failed to reveal signs (such as conical diggings or scats) of their presence and despite extensive sampling
none were captured.
Macropods
The Black Wallaby would have occupied the dense coastal thickets but due to suburbanization and the
development of Point Nepean Road this species no longer occurs. The Eastern Grey Kangaroo might have
occurred at times but historical records indicate that they stop at Tootgarook Swamp.
Water Rat
Water Rats could have once occupied the foreshore but appear to no longer. Intense fox and cat predation
would have caused their decline.
Micro bats
The following micro bat species weren’t sampled during the survey but are known to occur on the Southern
Peninsula: Chocolate Wattled Bat, Common Bent-wing Bat, Tasmanian Pipistrelle, Large Forest Bat and
the Southern Forest Bat.
The following are extracts from historical records of the fauna that used to occur in the area (between
Melbourne and Arthurs Seat) during the 1800’s and early to mid 1900’s:
Cavill (1986, p. 39) recounts the wildlife around her property (immediately to the east of Moorooduc
Quarry) in the 1930’s:
Fauna Survey and Management Prescriptions for White Cliffs to Cameron Bight Foreshore Reserve, Blairgowrie,
November, 2006 to July, 2007. 23
“Koalas grunted all night, wombats, kangaroos, wallabies, possums, echidnas, bush and water rats, flying
foxes and bandicoots were abundant and tame.”
The numbers of kangaroos must have been enormous.
“Kangaroos were formerly so plentiful that they resembled flocks of sheep. At Sandy Point they erected
yards for a big kangaroo drive. Messrs. Clark, White, Benton and others got 1500 in the first drive. Stakes
seven foot high were driven into the ground and interwoven with ti-tree. In the last drive they got 800
kangaroos. On the plain they were in thousands, as also were possums. Bandicoots and goannas were also
very numerous.” (Tuck, 1971, p. 10).
Also,
“The place was full of wild animals – wild cats, kangaroos, possums, snakes, emus and everything…”
(Tuck, 1971, p.10)
Cavill (pers. comm.) has noted the decline in occurrence of vertebrates living around the quarry. Of the
mammals, Quolls, Southern Brown Bandicoots and Eastern Grey Kangaroos lasted until around the 1940’s
while the Common Wombat remained until twenty years latter. As recently as twenty years ago, Mrs Cavill
recalls Koalas, Sugar Gliders and Agile Antechinus as abundant, although their numbers have since
declined dramatically. She believes the Black Wallaby was still present until 1984. Two species of pygmy
possum (Feathertail Glider and possibly the Eastern Pygmy Possum) were also thought to have lived there.
Wheelwright (1979) whose ‘wanderings’ all occurred within sixty-five kilometres of Melbourne was one of
the first naturalists to write about (and shoot so many of) the region’s fauna. He records Dingos “lying up
generally in thick patches of tea-tree…” (p. 35) and being common in thick forests, deeply scrubbed
gullies, in belts of timber bordering the large plains and in patches of tea-tree on the plains themselves.”
(p35). Wheelwright also described many of the species noted by Cavill – Common Wombats, Koalas, the
two possums, Sugar Gliders, Feathertail Glider, Bandicoots (two species), Short-beaked Echidnas, Eastern
Water Rats and various smaller bush animals, such as field-mice and rats.
In the 1850’s Wheelwright also observed a “Kangaroo Rat” which was “common throughout the bush” and
was “excellent eating”. This species described by Wheelwright is almost certainly the Long-nosed Potoroo.
Interestingly Wheelwright never observed Platypus in the “Westernport district”, although he found it
common in the “Yarra, the Exe and many of the streams to the north and east of Melbourne” (p.52).
Wheelwright also shot both species of quolls. He found the Spotted-tail Quolls rare, but the Eastern Quolls
to be “one of the commonest of all bush animals” (p.48). He found Eastern Quolls especially common in
the belts of timber around swamps.
Kenyon (1930) reporting on the work and travels of Dr Edmond Charles Hobson, an early Victorian
naturalist, quotes from Hobson’s 1837 notes:
“The forests between Melbourne and Arthurs Seat teem with life. The large Kangaroos may be seen in
flocks of three hundred or four hundred, and some measure nearly eight feet in height.”
He goes on and describes that the Southern Brown Bandicoot, Common Wombat, Eastern Quoll, Common
Brushtail Possum and Common Ringtail Possum were very numerous.
Hobson’s 1837 records, comments on a number of birds including the Brolga and the Australian Bustard
which were common but have now disappeared from the Greater Melbourne region. They are now listed as
vulnerable and endangered in Victoria.
Historical records indicate that by the 1860’s Ducks were almost shot out on the Port Phillip Bay side of the
Peninsula, and that excessive hunting and drainage of their habitat had reduced numbers dramatically.
Fauna Survey and Management Prescriptions for White Cliffs to Cameron Bight Foreshore Reserve, Blairgowrie,
November, 2006 to July, 2007. 24
5.0 FAUNAL SIGNIFICANCE WITHIN THE STUDY SITE
On the basis of the significant EVC’s, and flora and fauna species occurring within the study site, the study
area can be considered to be of Regional Significance.
5.1 Habitat Significance What remains of the vegetation communities within the study site contain important habitat for fauna
species. The indigenous treed communities support arboreal mammals and avifauna, whereas the ground
vegetation supports terrestrial fauna and scrub-dwelling avifauna. Some weed species are threatening the
diversity within the area and some are currently being controlled.
5 2 Defining Significant Species
Taxa within the study site were classed according to their local, regional, State and National significant
levels. As lists of high local and local significant fauna aren’t available from relevant government
authorities, those significant taxa were assessed by the author and from using previous records.
KEY
Signif Significant/status of species is designated by:
N National
S State
R Regional
HL High Local
NRE Threatened Vertebrate in Victoria-2000 (NRE 2000)
FFG Flora and Fauna Guaranteed Act 1988
ActPl Action Plan approved by environmental Australia
EPBC Environment Protection and Biodiversity Conservation Act 1999
TR International Treaties, C=China and J=Japan
Cen critically endangered
End endangered
Vul vulnerable
LR lower risk-near threatened
DD data deficient
Ls Listed
Mi Migratory
Un Uncommon
MC Moderately Common
LC Locally Common
C Common
Lim Limited
R Rare
Table 7: Significant fauna species along with their ratings recorded along the foreshore reserve.
Common Name Scientific Name Signif. NRE. FFG. ActPl EPBC TR
Reptiles
Eastern Three-lined Skink Bassiana duperreyi R MC
Metallic Skink Niveoscincus metallicus R MC
Weasel Skink Saproscincus mustelinus R MC
Mainland Tiger Snake Notechis scutatus HL MC
Birds
Australasian Gannet Morus serrator R C
Pied Cormorant Phalacrocorax varius S LR
Black Swan Cygnus atratus HL C
Fauna Survey and Management Prescriptions for White Cliffs to Cameron Bight Foreshore Reserve, Blairgowrie,
November, 2006 to July, 2007. 25
Common Name Scientific Name Signif. NRE. FFG. ActPl EPBC TR
Pacific Golden Plover Pluvialis fulva S LR Mi CJ
Pacific Gull Larus pacificus S LR
Caspian Tern Sterna caspia S LR Ls Mi CJ
Crested Tern Sterna bergii R MC
White-throated Needletail Hirundapus caudacutus HL C Mi CJ
Singing Honeyeater Lichenostomus virescens R MC
Eastern Yellow Robin Eopsaltria australis R MC
Bassian Thrush Zoothera lunulata R MC
Mammals
White-footed Dunnart Sminthopsis leucopus S Vul
Micro bat species in study area. As per results R C
Swamp Rat Rattus lutreolus R LC
Australian Fur Seal Arctocephalus pusillus R C
Southern Right Whale Eubalaena australis N Cen Ls End End
Port Phillip Bay Bottlenose
Dolphin
Tursiops sp S End
Table 8: Significant taxa of the study site along with their habitat requirements and management
actions.
Species Habitat Requirements Management Actions
Eastern Three-lined Skink Terrestrial species confined to the sandy
Primary Dune system and is a burrowing
species.
Maintain dune system free of weeds and
vermin and look into ways to prevent
erosion.
Metallic Skink Terrestrial species found along the
coastal dune system where intact grassy
understorey still exists.
Maintain habitat free of habitat changing
weeds and control vermin. Leave logs on
ground and no fire wood collection.
Weasel Skink Shade hugging species found under logs
or amongst leaf-litter.
Maintain habitat free of habitat changing
weeds and control vermin. Leave logs on
ground and no fire wood collection.
Mainland Tiger Snake Found along the coastal dunes where it
feeds mainly on swamp Rats.
Maintain habitat free of habitat changing
weeds and control vermin. Leave logs on
ground and no fire wood collection.
Australasian Gannet Occasionally seen diving for fish off the
foreshore. Nests at Popes Eye.
No management required within study
site.
Pied Cormorant Seen flying overhead or roosting on
pylons, boats and exposed sand banks.
Enters the bay to mainly feed on fish.
Maintain exposed sand banks and groins
free from dog and human activities.
Black Swan Seen flying overhead or swimming and
feeding on sea grasses. Enters the bay to
mainly feed on sea grasses.
Maintain known feeding sights free from
dog and human activities.
Pacific Golden Plover Rare summer migrant from the Northern
Hemisphere where one specimen was
observed east of the marina on the beach
before Christmas.
Maintain foreshore beach free from dog
and human activities.
Pacific Gull Found along the coast where it builds a
nest on the ground or ledge and usually
encountered on the exposed sand banks.
Maintain exposed sand banks free from
dog and human activities.
Caspian Tern Migrates to Australia from the Northern
Hemisphere in spring. Seen flying out
from the marina over the bay and diving
for fish.
No management required within study
site.
Fauna Survey and Management Prescriptions for White Cliffs to Cameron Bight Foreshore Reserve, Blairgowrie,
November, 2006 to July, 2007. 26
Species Habitat Requirements Management Actions
Crested Tern Seen hunting out over the bay where it
dives for fish and nests on exposed sand
banks and groins. Juveniles roost on sand
banks after fledging.
Maintain exposed sand banks free from
dog and human activities.
White-throated Needletail Occurs in the summer period where it
migrates from Northern Asia. Aerial,
usually over coastal and mountainous
areas on the peninsula and flies with
flickering strokes, then long-winged
raking glides and slow turns.
No management required.
Singing Honeyeater Pair occasionally seen next to the
western side of the yacht club.
Maintain area free from habitat changing
weeds and vermin.
Eastern Yellow Robin Known to nest in weed trees such as
Pittosporum, Box Thorn, Italian Buck
Thorn etc and builds a cup shaped nest
and lightly decorated with mosses and
lichens. Perches sideways on trunks
Only remove weed trees and shrubs in
the non-bird breeding season. Plant out
middle storey and control vermin.
Bassian Thrush Ground dwelling species preferring to
feed in the leaf-litter. Migrates from the
mountains to lower elevations such as the
Mornington Peninsula during winter.
Maintain dense coastal thickets which
contain ample leaf-litter.
White-footed Dunnart State significant small carnivorous
marsupial preferring intact understoreys
such as poas and Lepidosperma
gladiatum (Coast Sword-sedge) with
fallen trunks. Builds a small nest under
the poas, sedges or fallen logs.
Plant out and maintain dense understorey
where remnant vegetation occurs. Place
out logs within the understorey. Control
vermin such as Black Rats, cats and
foxes.
Micro bat species occurring along
the study site.
Utilise tree hollows, loose bark and some
buildings rooves as roost sites. Feed on
insects at night.
Retain and restore mature woodland
habitat and remove weed trees.
Implement a bat-box program using a
variety of designs. Investigate methods
shown to promote tree hollows.
Swamp Rat Prefers areas of dense cover eg low-lying
grasses and sedges and other vegetation.
Feeds on rhizomes and excavates
runways and burrows. After fire, habitat
is not usually suitable for several years.
Protect areas that have intact habitat.
Ensure any revegetation areas include
essential understorey plants. Control
vermin and weeds. The highest priority is
to protect Lepidosperma gladiatum areas.
Australian Fur Seal Occasionally seen swimming out from
the foreshore hunting for fish.
Occasionally enters the foreshore to rest.
Roosts on man-made objects in Southern
Port Phillip Bay.
Keep dogs and humans away from beach
stranded individuals and allow them to
rest peacefully. Keep boats away from
individuals that come in close to feed.
Southern Right Whale The occasional sighting is becoming
more common each year. A mother
sometimes enters the bay in winter to
give birth or for safety with a calf and
can be seen migrating along the bay.
No management required within the
foreshore. However keep records if
sightings occur and keep humans and
their water craft away.
Port Phillip bay Bottlenose
Dolphin
Endemic to Port Phillip Bay where about
100 individuals still exist. Occasionally
seen swimming out from the foreshore.
Educate and keep people and their water
crafts away from pods and individuals.
5.3 Legislation and Government Policy Fauna listed as threatened under the Victorian FFG Act and Migratory under the Federal EPBC Act were
recorded during this survey.
Fauna Survey and Management Prescriptions for White Cliffs to Cameron Bight Foreshore Reserve, Blairgowrie,
November, 2006 to July, 2007. 27
6.0 MANAGEMENT PRESCRIPTIONS FOR THE FORESHORE RESERVE.
6.1 Management requirements for significant taxa in Table Eight.
In order to maintain the significant taxa within the foreshore reserve the managers need to adopt the
management requirements set out in Table Eight of this report.
* Implement actions as outlined in Table Eight.
6.2 Future survey work
Stage two fauna survey will commence in August, 2007. Future survey work needs to be carried out every
five years to determine if fauna populations are increasing and if new species have entered the foreshore
reserve.
* Use the author to carry out a fauna survey of the foreshore reserve in five years time.
6.3 Management of Weeds.
On going eradication of weeds is of high priority. The highest priority is to removal any habitat changing
weeds from the study site (such as Pittosporum, Blackberries, Boneseed, Ivy, Polygala, weedy grasses etc).
The removal of weedy shrubs and trees should only be removed during the non bird breeding season. If any
Ringtail Possum dreys are present or significant breeding and roosting birds, then leave or ring-bark
without poisoning. The understorey is extremely important to retain and to be planted back in areas lacking.
This should be achieved in all bushland areas including creating corridors through out the camping grounds
* Only remove woody weeds from the foreshore reserve during the non-bird breeding season.
* Allow natural regeneration to occur.
* If Ringtail Possum dreys occur in woody weeds, ring-bark with out poisoning. Follow-up after
a year.
* Leave if significant birds are nesting or roosting.
* Plant back the understorey through out including areas of the camping grounds.
6.4 Introduced Birds
Introduced starlings and mynas are aggressive towards hollow-dependant fauna and take over their homes.
The Spotted Turtle Dove competes for essential seed with native pigeons and rosellas. Blackbirds have
replaced the native ground thrush and are spreading introduced weed seed.
* Eradicate or control introduced birds on the foreshore reserve.
6.5 Fox Control Methods
Fox populations appear to be relatively high throughout the study site but increased activity was noted
during late summer and autumn especially along tracks. Live specimens were seen at times especially
running along the beach after dusk. Several dens were also noted along the ridge line of the coastal cliffs.
The most suitable methods of fox control are poisoning, fumigating dens or shooting and trapping using
soft-jawed foot-hold traps. Poisoning is not permitted on properties less than 200 acres, but is allowed
when surrounding properties totalling 200 or more acres in size work together in an eradication program.
The most appropriate methods within the study site are foot-hold trapping and den fumigation.
* Eradicate or control fox populations by using methods discussed.
* Set up a fox eradication program with surrounding neighbours such as the MPS, Parks Victoria
and other foreshores.
Fauna Survey and Management Prescriptions for White Cliffs to Cameron Bight Foreshore Reserve, Blairgowrie,
November, 2006 to July, 2007. 28
6.6 Cat Control
Cats that visit the foreshore reserve should be eliminated or if they are a pet, taken back to their owners and
told of the destruction they cause on our native fauna.
* Eradicate or control domestic and feral cats entering the study site.
* Domestic cats should be trapped in cage traps and taken to their owners who should be made
aware of the impact their pets are having on native fauna populations.
* Educate the surrounding public about retaining cats on their property and the 24 hour cat curfew,
which is State and MPS Legislation.
6.7 Black Rat Control
The introduced Black Rats aggressively takes over important Dunnart and bird hollows and displaces them
out of their niche. They are also known to feed on skinks.
* Eradicate or control Black Rats during autumn and early winter by using cage traps.
6.8 Dog Control
Dog leash free areas are currently permitted west of the marina to Sullivan’s Bay Point. This appears to be
the least sensitive area along the foreshore. However dogs were noted east of the marina off lead chasing
coastal birds (swans, cormorants, tern, gulls etc) off the groins and sand banks. These birds need to roost
undisturbed in order to digest their meals and gain energy. The sand banks on the western side of the jetty
are also important roosting areas for coastal birds such as the Little Black Cormorant. Human and dog
disturbance are detrimental for these birds.
* Only allow dogs in the leash free area and keep them away from all other areas mentioned.
6.9 Nesting boxes and ground logs
Nesting boxes need to be erected throughout the foreshore reserve, especially in the areas lacking natural
hollows. This will help attract hollow-dependent fauna, particularly, various micro bat species and certain
bird species. Tree trunks and fallen logs need to be retained on the ground in order to enhance the habitat
for terrestrial taxa. Both the nesting boxes and logs should be monitored monthly to determine what taxa
are using them.
* Increase the diversity of hollow-dependent taxa through out the study site by erecting different
sized, species-specific nesting boxes.
* Always retain trunks and logs on the ground to enhance terrestrial habitat (no firewood collection).
* Monitor the nesting boxes and logs monthly to determine what taxa are utilising them.
6.10 Controlled Burns
Mosaic style controlled burns can be conducted through out the study site at different times. This could
help to attract Dunnarts and Bandicoots and other species back to the area.
* Look into the fire regime of the area before white settlement and implement mosaic style
controlled burns which will maintain a range of vegetation age classes as appropriate for the flora
and fauna requirements, to enhance faunal diversity and to maintain floral diversity.
6.11 Wildlife Corridors
Several areas through out the foreshore are lacking continuous vegetation in the form of corridors. This is
detrimental to most species that need vegetation to move through. The bush corridor along the beach needs
to be at a minimum of 40 meters wide and in some spots is not even apparent. Existing bushland needs to
be connected up to each other by creating corridors along the foreshore. This also includes the camping
grounds. Less brush cutting through out would also help to achieve this.
Fauna Survey and Management Prescriptions for White Cliffs to Cameron Bight Foreshore Reserve, Blairgowrie,
November, 2006 to July, 2007. 29
* Create continuous bushland through out by linking with corridors, especially the understorey.
6.12 Fencing off remnant vegetation
All Moonah Woodland areas and Lepidosperma gladiatum patches should be fenced off to prevent public
access as these areas are remnant, important and significant communities containing significant fauna.
Fauna Survey and Management Prescriptions for White Cliffs to Cameron Bight Foreshore Reserve, Blairgowrie,
November, 2006 to July, 2007. 30
REFERENCES
Allen, G. R., Midgley, S. H. & Allen, M. (2002). Field Guide to the Freshwater Fishes of Australia.
Published by the Western Australian Museum, Francis Street Perth, 6000.
Cavill, J. 1986). “Around and about the Moorooduc Quarry Reserve: a personal perspective and selection
of resources appropriate for the use of a small area of environmental education”. M. Ed. Study’s thesis,
Monash University, Melbourne.
Cogger, H.G. (2000). Reptiles and Amphibians of Australia (Sixth Edition). New Holland Publishers Pty
Ltd, Sydney, N.S.W.
Hawkins, H. J., & Smith, F. J. (1997). Identification Guide No. 8 Colour guide to Invertebrates of
Australian Inland waters. Co-operative Research Centre for Freshwater Ecology, Albury New South
Wales.
Hero. J., Littlejohn, M., & Marantelli, M. (1991). Frogwatch Field Guide to Victorian Frogs. Dept. of
Conservation and Environment, Melbourne.
Jenkins, R. and Bartell, R. (1980). A Field Guide to Reptiles of the Australian High Country. Inkata Press
Pty Ltd, Melbourne.
Kenyon, A. S. (1930). Our first Victorian Naturalist: Dr Edmund Charles Hobson. Victorian Nat. 47: 94-
98.
Legg, M. (2003). Fauna Survey and Management Prescriptions for Main Ridge Equestrian Ground, Main
Ridge.
Legg, M. (2002). Fauna Survey and Management Prescriptions for Peninsula Gardens Bushland Reserve,
Rosebud South.
Menkhorst, W. (1996). Mammals of Victoria. Oxford University Press. Victoria, 1996.
NRE 2000a. Threatened Vertebrate Fauna in Victoria-2000. Department of Natural Resources and
Environment, Victoria.
Port Phillip and Westernport Catchment and Land Protection Board. Draft Port Phillip and Westernport
Native vegetation Plan. August, 2000.
Simpson, K. and Day, N. (1999). Field Guide to the Birds of Australia… (Sixth Edition). Penguin Books
Australia.
Strahan, R. (1998). The Mammals of Australia (Revised Edition). New Holland Publishers Pty Ltd, Sydney.
Tuck, H. (1971) p. 2-11 in Anon (1971) The Men Who Blazed the Bush. (Peninsula Post, 1913. Reproduced
1971 by the Mornington Peninsula Historical Society).
Yugovic, J. Oct. 2002. Mornington Peninsula Ecological Vegetation Class Profiles. Biosis Research.
Wheelwright, H. H. (1979) Bush Wanderings of a Naturalist. (Oxford University Press: Melbourne)
Fauna Survey and Management Prescriptions for White Cliffs to Cameron Bight Foreshore Reserve, Blairgowrie,
November, 2006 to July, 2007. 31
KEY-Significance/status of species:
N National
S State
R Regional
HL High Local
L Local
* Introduced
Type of record:
h Heard
s Seen
I Incidental (scats, feathers etc.)
t Trapped/handheld
B Breeding residential bird
Ex Presumed Extinct
APPENDIX 1: AMPHIBIANS RECORDED WITHIN THE STUDY SITE, JULY, 2007.
Scientific Name Common Name Conservation status
within the site.
Type of
record
Limnodynastes dumerilii insularis Southern Bullfrog Rare Lhs
APPENDIX 2: REPTILES RECORDED WITHIN THE STUDY SITE, JULY, 2007.
Scientific Name Common Name Conservation status
within the site.
Type of
record
LIZARDS
Bassiana duperreyi Eastern Three-lined Skink Uncommon Rst
Lampropholis guichenoti Garden Skink Common Lst
Niveoscincus metallicus Metallic Skink Rare Rt
Saproscincus mustelinus Weasel Skink Uncommon Rst
Tiliqua scincoides Common Blue-tongue Uncommon Ls
SNAKES
Notechis scutatus Mainland Tiger Snake Rare HLs
APPENDIX 3: COASTAL BIRDS RECORDED WITHIN THE STUDY SITE, JULY, 2007.
Scientific Name Common Name Conservation status
within the site.
Type of
record
Morus serrator Australasian Gannet Uncommon Rs
Pelecanus conspicillatus Australian Pelican Uncommon Ls
Phalacrocorax varius Pied Cormorant Common at times Ss
Phalacrocorax melanoleucos Little Pied Cormorant Common at times Ls
Phalacrocorax carbo Great Cormorant Uncommon Ls
Phalacrocorax sulcirostris Little Black Cormorant Common at times Ls
Cygnus atratus Black Swan Common at times HLs
Threskiornis molucca Australian White Ibis Uncommon Ls
Threskiornis spinicollis Straw-necked Ibis Uncommon Ls
Pluvialis fulva Pacific Golden Plover Rare Ss
Larus novaehollandiae Silver Gull Common Lhs
Larus pacificus Pacific Gull Uncommon Ss
Larus dominicanus Kelp Gull Rare Ls
Sterna caspia Caspian Tern Rare Ss
Sterna bergii Crested Tern Common at times Rs
Fauna Survey and Management Prescriptions for White Cliffs to Cameron Bight Foreshore Reserve, Blairgowrie,
November, 2006 to July, 2007. 32
APPENDIX 4: WOODLAND BIRDS RECORDED WITHIN THE STUDY SITE, JULY, 2007.
Scientific Name Common name Conservation status
within the site.
Type of
record
Elanus axillaris Black-shouldered Kite Rare Lhs
Haliastur sphenurus Whistling Kite Rare HLs
Falco cenchroides Nankeen Kestrel Rare Ls
*Streptopelia chinensis Spotted Turtle-Dove Uncommon hs
Eolophus roseicapillus Galah Rare Lhs
Trichoglossus haematodus Rainbow Lorikeet Uncommon Lhs
Platycercus elegans Crimson Rosella Rare Lhs
Hirundapus caudactus race caudactus White-throated Needletail Common at times HLs
Malurus cyaneus Superb Fairy-wren Common Lhs
Pardalotus punctatus Spotted Pardalote Common at times Lhs
Sericornis frontalis White-browed Scrubwren Common Lhs
Acanthiza pusilla Brown Thornbill Common Lhs
Anthochaera carunculata Red Wattlebird Common Lhs
Anthochaera chrysoptera Little Wattlebird Uncommon Lhs
Acanthagenys rufogularis Spiny-cheeked Honeyeater Rare Lhs
Lichenostomus chrysops Yellow-faced Honeyeater Rare Lhs
Lichenostomus virescens Singing Honeyeater Rare Rhs
Phylidonyris novaehollandiae New Holland Honeyeater Rare Lhs
Acanthorhynchus tenuirostris Eastern Spinebill Rare Lhs
Eopsaltria australis Eastern Yellow Robin Rare Rhs
Colluricincla harmonica Grey Shrike-thrush Rare Lhs
Rhipidura fuliginosa Grey Fantail Rare Lhs
Rhipidura leucophrys Willy Wagtail Rare Lhs
Cracticus torquatus Grey Butcherbird Rare Lhs
Gymnorhina tibicen Australian Magpie Common Lhs
Corvus coronoides Australian Raven Uncommon Lhs
Corvus mellori Little Raven Rare Lhs
Hirundo neoxena Welcome Swallow Uncommon
Zosterops lateralis Silvereye Common Lhs
Zoothera lunulata Bassian Thrush Rare Rs
*Turdus merula Common Blackbird Common hs
*Sturnus vulgaris Common Starling Common at times hs
*Acridotheres tristis Common Myna Common at times hs
Fauna Survey and Management Prescriptions for White Cliffs to Cameron Bight Foreshore Reserve, Blairgowrie,
November, 2006 to July, 2007. 33
APPENDIX 5: MAMMALS RECORDED WITHIN THE STUDY SITE, JULY, 2007.
Scientific Name Common Name Conservation status
within the site.
Type of
record
MARSUPIALS
Sminthopsis leucopus White-footed Dunnart Rare St
Trichosurus vulpecula Common Brushtail Possum Uncommon Lhs
Pseudocheirus peregrinus Common Ringtail Possum Common LhsI
PLACENTAL MAMMALS
MICROBATS
Tadarida australis White-striped Free-tail Bat Rare Rh
Chalinolobus gouldii Gould’s Wattled Bat Common Rh
Nyctophilus geoffroyi Lesser long-eared Bat Uncommon Rh
Vespadelus darlingtoni Little Forest Bat Uncommon Rh
RODENTS
Rattus lutreolus ssp. Lutreolus Swamp Rat Common RtI
MARINE MAMMALS
Eubalaena australis Southern Right Whale Rare Ns
Arctocephalus pusillus Australian Fur Seal Rare Rs
Tursiops sp Port Phillip Bay Bottle-
nosed Dolphin
Rare Ss
INTRODUCED MAMMALS
*Mus musculus House Mouse Common t
*Rattus rattus Black Rat Common t
*Vulpes vulpes Red Fox Common sI
*Felis catus Feral Cat Common t
*Denotes introduced species
Fauna Survey and Management Prescriptions for White Cliffs to Cameron Bight Foreshore Reserve, Blairgowrie,
November, 2006 to July, 2007. 34
Fauna Survey and Management Prescriptions for White Cliffs to Cameron Bight Foreshore Reserve, Blairgowrie,
November, 2006 to July, 2007. 35
Fauna Survey and Management Prescriptions for White Cliffs to Cameron Bight Foreshore Reserve, Blairgowrie,
November, 2006 to July, 2007. 36
MAP I
Locations of fauna sampling sites.
ET &
SI 2
ET &
SI 1
KEY
ET-Elliot trap sampling
transect.
SI Sheet iron sampling
site.