Patricia Fleming

Flower visitation by honey possums (Tarsipes rostratus) in a coastal banksia heathland infested with the plant pathogen Phytophthora cinnamomi

Publisher: CSIRO Publishing

Date: 2013

DOI: 10.1071/AM12044

Abstract: The honey possum (Tarsipes rostratus) is a tiny (7–10 g) obligate nectarivore endemic to south-west Western Australia that relies on high floristic ersity for year-round nectar and pollen resources. We investigated flower visitation by honey possums at a site in the presence of the plant pathogen Phytophthora cinnamomi by s ling pollen on the head of captured and radio-tracked in iduals. The aim of the study was to identify plant species that were visited and to compare these with known susceptibility to Phytophthora to assess the potential impact of further spread of the pathogen on honey possums. Nine plant taxa were regularly identified from pollen on honey possums, including four Banksia species. Six of the nine plant taxa identified (Banksia plumosa, Adenanthos cuneatus, Calothamnus gracilis, B. brunnea, B. nutans, B. tenuis) were most frequently visited by honey possums, each making up % of pollen grains for at least one season. Five of the nine plant taxa are known to be susceptible to Phytophthora, which substantially changes vegetation composition in its wake. The inevitable spread of Phytophthora is postulated to result in the localised loss of resources for honey possums and is a concern for on-going conservation management.

Bioturbation by bandicoots facilitates seedling growth by altering soil properties

Publisher: Wiley

Date: 22-06-2018

DOI: 10.1111/1365-2435.13179

Time since fire influences food resources for an endangered species, Carnaby's cockatoo, in a fire-prone landscape

Publisher: Elsevier BV

Date: 07-2014

DOI: 10.1016/J.BIOCON.2014.04.006

Switching to Plan B: Changes in the escape tactics of two grasshopper species (Acrididae: Orthoptera) in response to repeated predatory approaches

Publisher: Springer Science and Business Media LLC

Date: 06-12-2014

DOI: 10.1007/S00265-013-1660-0

Short‐term energy regulation in nectar‐feeding birds: the response of Whitebellied Sunbirds (Nectarinia talatala) to a midday fast

Publisher: Wiley

Date: 21-11-2005

DOI: 10.1111/J.1365-2435.2005.01042.X

Qualitative behavioural assessment of the motivation for feed in sheep in response to altered body condition score

Publisher: CSIRO Publishing

Date: 2014

DOI: 10.1071/AN13020

Abstract: Qualitative behavioural assessment (QBA) has been used to quantify the expressive behaviour of animals, and operant tests have been used to quantify measures of behavioural need. In this study we compared measures of behavioural expression and behaviour in operant tests. We examined the behavioural expression of pregnant ewes of body condition score (BCS) 2 and 3. The ewes were exposed to a feed motivation test in which they received a food reward. Pregnant ewes (48–70 days gestation) were assessed during a food motivation test after they had been maintained at BCS 3 (n = 7) or given a decreasing plane of nutrition that resulted in slow loss of 1 BCS unit (over 10–12 weeks n = 7) or a fast loss of 1 BCS unit (over 4–6 weeks n = 7). The feed motivation test involved ewes having the opportunity to approach a food reward and then being moved a given distance away from the reward by an automatic gate they could then subsequently return to the feeder. Continuous video footage of each ewe during one cycle of the gate (approaching and returning from the food reward) was shown in random order to 11 observers who used their own descriptive terms (free-choice profiling methodology FCP) to score the animals using QBA. Data of the assessment were analysed with generalised Procrustes analysis (GPA), a multivariate statistical technique associated with FCP. The research group also quantified the feeding behaviour of sheep in the same clips. These behaviours included how sheep approached the feeder, behaviours exhibited at the feeder, and how sheep returned from the feeder. There was consensus amongst observers in terms of their assessment of behavioural expression of the sheep (P 0.001). The GPA found three main dimensions of assessed behavioural expression in the sheep, which together explained 44% of the variation observed. GPA dimension 1 differed between the three treatment groups (P 0.05): ewes maintained at BCS 3 scored low on GPA dimension 1 (i.e. were described as more calm/bored/comfortable) compared with ewes that had a slow declining BCS (described as more interested/anxious/excited). GPA dimension 2 scores were not significantly different between treatment groups. However, quantitative behaviours exhibited by sheep during the clips were correlated with qualitative behavioural assessments made by the observers. Animals that spent more time ‘sniffing and looking for more feed’ were attributed lower GPA 2 scores (described as more hungry/searching/excited) (P 0.05), and animals that ‘did not walk directly to the food reward (but stopped along the way)’ were attributed significantly higher GPA 2 scores (more curious/intimidated/uneasy) (P 0.01). GPA dimension 3 scores also did not differ between the treatment groups however, sheep that had a higher number of feeding events during the entire 23-h feed motivation test were attributed lower GPA dimension 3 scores (they were described as more hungry/bold/interested) (P 0.05), and sheep that consumed a larger amount of the feed reward were attributed higher GPA dimension 3 scores (more curious/concerned/reserved) (P 0.05). We conclude that QBA is a valuable method of assessing sheep behavioural expression under the conditions tested, in that it provided an integrative characterisation of sheep behavioural expression that was in agreement with quantitative behavioural measures of feeding.

Preliminary Findings on a Novel Behavioural Approach for the Assessment of Pain and Analgesia in Lambs Subject to Routine Husbandry Procedures

Publisher: MDPI AG

Date: 07-07-2020

DOI: 10.3390/ANI10071148

Abstract: The identification and assessment of pain in sheep under field conditions are important, but, due to their stoic nature, are fraught with many challenges. In Australia, various husbandry procedures that are documented to cause pain are routinely performed at lamb marking, including ear tagging, castration, mulesing, and tail docking. This study evaluated the validity of a novel methodology to assess pain in lambs: qualitative behavioural assessment (QBA) was used to compare the behavioural expression of control lambs (CONTROL) with that of lambs subject to these procedures that received either a saline placebo 15 min before procedures (PLACEBO), or were administered meloxicam 15 min before procedures in addition to the standard analgesic Tri-Solfen at the time of procedures, as per the manufacturer’s recommendations (ANALGESIC TREATMENT AT). In terms of behavioural expression, it was expected that: CONTROL ≠ PLACEBO, AT = CONTROL, and PLACEBO ≠ AT. Video footage of the 6−8-week-old lambs (n = 10 for each treatment) was captured approximately 1.5 h postprocedure and was presented, in a random order, to 19 observers for assessment using the Free-Choice Profiling (FCP) approach to QBA. There was significant consensus (p 0.001) among the observers in their assessment of the lambs, with two main dimensions of behavioural expression explaining 69.2% of the variation. As expected, observers perceived differences in the demeanour of lambs in the first dimension, scoring all lambs subject to the routine husbandry procedures as significantly more ‘dull’ and ‘uneasy’ compared to the control lambs (p 0.05). Contrary to expectations, the results also suggested that analgesic treatment did not provide relief at the time of observation. Further investigations to validate the relationship between behavioural expression scores and pain are necessary, but these results suggest that painful husbandry procedures alter the behavioural expression of lambs and these differences can be captured using QBA methodology.

Salt intake and regulation in two passerine nectar drinkers: white-bellied sunbirds and New Holland honeyeaters

Publisher: Springer Science and Business Media LLC

Date: 12-12-2012

DOI: 10.1007/S00360-012-0722-3

Abstract: Avian nectarivores face the dilemma of having to conserve salts while consuming large volumes of a dilute, electrolyte-deficient diet. This study evaluates the responses to salt solutions and the regulation of salt intake in white-bellied sunbirds (Cinnyris talatala) and New Holland honeyeaters (Phylidonyris novaehollandiae). Birds were first offered a choice of four sucrose diets, containing no salt or 25, 50 or 75 mM NaCl. The experiment was repeated using five sucrose concentrations (0.075-0.63 M) as the base solution. Both species ingested similar amounts of all diets when fed the concentrated base solutions. However, when birds had to increase their intake to obtain enough energy on the dilute sucrose diets, there was a general avoidance of the higher salt concentrations. Through this diet switching, birds maintained constant intakes of both sucrose and sodium the latter may contribute to absorption of their sugar diets. A second, no-choice experiment was designed to elucidate the renal concentrating abilities of these two nectarivores, by feeding them 0.63 M sucrose containing 5-200 mM NaCl over a 4-h trial. In both species, cloacal fluid osmolalities increased with diet NaCl concentration, but honeyeaters tended to retain ingested Na(+), while sunbirds excreted it. Comparison of Na(+) and K(+) concentrations in ureteral urine and cloacal fluid showed that K(+), but not Na(+), was reabsorbed in the lower intestine of both species. The kidneys of sunbirds and honeyeaters, like those of hummingbirds, are well suited to diluting urine however, they also appear to concentrate urine efficiently when necessary.

Investigation into individual health and exposure to infectious agents of platypuses (Ornithorhynchus anatinus) in two river catchments in northwest Tasmania

Publisher: Wildlife Disease Association

Date: 04-2017

DOI: 10.7589/2015-12-335

Abstract: Changes in the health of in iduals within wildlife populations can be a cause or effect of population declines in wildlife species. Aspects of in idual platypus ( Ornithorhynchus anatinus ) health have been reported. However, holistic studies investigating potential synergistic effects of both pathogens and environmental factors are needed to expand understanding of platypus in idual health. We collected baseline data on the health of platypuses in two Tasmanian river catchments (including evidence of the potentially fatal fungal disease mucormycosis) and on in idual, demographic, and geographic patterns associated with health data results. We examined 130 wild platypuses from the Inglis River Catchment and 24 platypuses from the Seabrook Creek Catchment in northwest Tasmania between 29 August 2011 and 31 August 2013. More than 90% of captured platypuses were infected with ticks, Theileria spp., and trypanosomes. Evidence of exposure to other infections, including Salmonella spp., Leptospira spp., and intestinal parasites, was low (<10%). Three platypuses had single fungal granulomas in the webbing of a forefoot, but no evidence of mucormycosis was found in any of the study animals. Possible subclinical hepatopathies or cholangiohepatopathies were found in six platypuses. Exposure to infectious agents did not cluster geographically, demographically, or in in iduals, and there was minimal evidence of morbidity resulting from infection. This study has provided important baseline data for monitoring the effects of threatening processes, including mucormycosis, on the health of infected populations.

A need for dynamic hematology and serum biochemistry reference tools: Novel use of sine wave functions to produce seasonally varying reference curves in platypuses (Ornithorhynchus anatinus)

Publisher: Wildlife Disease Association

Date: 04-2017

DOI: 10.7589/2015-12-336

Abstract: Seasonal changes in hematology and serum biochemistry results, described by separate reference intervals for different seasons, have been reported in many animals. We developed a novel method to investigate seasonal variation in values and a reference tool (the reference curve) based on sine wave functions that, for suitable variables, represents data more appropriately than a fixed reference interval. We applied these techniques to values observed in blood s les from 126 adult wild platypuses ( Ornithorhynchus anatinus 58 females and 68 males). S les were collected under isoflurane anesthesia from animals captured in the Inglis Catchment in northwest Tasmania. In general, packed cell volume (PCV), red cell count (RCC), and hemoglobin (Hb) values appeared to be lower than those in two studies that previously reported platypus hematology reference intervals. This likely resulted from reduced stress-related splenic contraction or isoflurane-associated splenic sequestration of red blood cells in our study. Reference curves were described for five variables (PCV, RCC, Hb, albumin, and magnesium). We found evidence that this seasonal variation may result from metabolic changes associated with seasonal variations in environmental temperature. These observations suggest that it is important for researchers reporting platypus hematology and serum biochemistry to look for seasonal changes in their data to ensure it is appropriately interpreted.

Pits or pictures: a comparative study of camera traps and pitfall trapping to survey small mammals and reptiles

Publisher: CSIRO Publishing

Date: 2019

DOI: 10.1071/WR18074

Abstract: Context Camera trapping is a widely used monitoring tool for a broad range of species across most habitat types. Camera trapping has some major advantages over other trapping methods, such as pitfall traps, because cameras can be left in the field for extended periods of time. However, there is still a need to compare traditional trapping methods with newer techniques. Aims To compare trap rates, species richness and community composition of small mammals and reptiles by using passive, unbaited camera traps and pitfall traps. Methods We directly compared pitfall trapping (20-L buried buckets) with downward-facing infrared-camera traps (Reconyx) to survey small reptiles and mammals at 16 sites within a forested habitat in south-western Australia. We compared species captured using each method, as well as the costs associated with each. Key results Overall, we recorded 228 reptiles, 16 mammals and 1 frog across 640 pitfall trap-nights (38.3 animal captures per 100 trap-nights) compared to 271 reptiles and 265 mammals (for species likely to be captured in pitfall traps) across 2572 camera trap nights (20.8 animal captures per 100 trap-nights). When trap effort is taken into account, camera trapping was only 23% as efficient as pitfall trapping for small reptiles (mostly Scincidae), but was five times more efficient for surveying small mammals (Dasyuridae). Comparing only those species that were likely to be captured in pitfall traps, 13 species were recorded by camera trapping compared with 20 species recorded from pitfall trapping however, we found significant (P& .001) differences in community composition between the methods. In terms of cost efficacy, camera trapping was the more expensive method for our short, 4-month survey when taking the cost of cameras into consideration. Conclusions Applicability of camera trapping is dependent on the specific aims of the intended research. Camera trapping is beneficial where community responses to ecosystem disturbance are being tested. Live capture of small reptiles via pitfall trapping allows for positive species identification, morphological assessment, and collection of reference photos to help identify species from camera photos. Implications As stand-alone techniques, both survey methods under-represent the available species present in a region. The use of more than one survey method improves the scope of fauna community assessments.

Drinking problems on a ‘simple’ diet: physiological convergence in nectar-feeding birds

Publisher: The Company of Biologists

Date: 04-2014

DOI: 10.1242/JEB.054387

Abstract: Regulation of energy and water are by necessity closely linked in avian nectarivores, because the easily available sugars in nectar are accompanied by an excess of water but few electrolytes. In general, there is convergence in morphology and physiology between three main lineages of avian nectarivores that have evolved on different continents – the hummingbirds, sunbirds and honeyeaters. These birds show similar dependence of sugar preferences on nectar concentration, high intestinal sucrase activity and rapid absorption of hexoses via mediated and paracellular routes. There are differences, however, in how these lineages deal with energy challenges, as well as processing the large volumes of preformed water ingested in nectar. While hummingbirds rely on varying renal water reabsorption, the passerine nectarivores modulate intestinal water absorption during water loading, thus reducing the impact on the kidneys. Hummingbirds do not generally cope with salt loading, and have renal morphology consistent with their ability to produce copious dilute urine by contrast, as well as being able to deal with dilute diets, honeyeaters and sunbirds are more than capable of dealing with moderately high levels of added electrolytes. And finally, in response to energy challenge, hummingbirds readily resort to torpor, while the passerines show renal and digestive responses that allow them to deal with short-term fasts and rapidly restore energy balance without using torpor. In conclusion, sunbirds and honeyeaters demonstrate a degree of physiological plasticity in dealing with digestive and renal challenges of their nectar diet, while hummingbirds appear to be more constrained by this diet.

Do woodland birds prefer to forage in healthy Eucalyptus wandoo trees?

Publisher: CSIRO Publishing

Date: 2013

DOI: 10.1071/ZO13045

Abstract: Globally, many forests and woodlands are in decline. The marked loss of canopy foliage typical of these declines results in reduced foraging resources (e.g. nectar, pollen, and insects) and, subsequently, can reduce habitat quality for woodland birds. In south-west Western Australia, patches of Eucalyptus wandoo woodlands have shown a decline in condition since at least 2002. We investigated how changes in E. wandoo condition affect the woodland bird community. Foraging activities of three bird species were recorded for 20 sites in Dryandra State Forest and Wandoo Conservation Park either by conducting watches on focal trees (‘sitting’ method), or following in iduals through the woodland (‘following’ method). Condition assessments of trees used by the birds were compared with those for trees available at the study site. Weebills (Smicrornis brevirostris canopy insectivore) displayed preference for healthy trees (low amounts of canopy dieback), whereas rufous treecreepers (Climacteris rufa bark-foraging insectivore) preferred trees with a higher proportion of dead branches. Yellow-plumed honeyeaters (Lichenostomus ornatus insectivore/nectarivore) foraged in older, larger E. wandoo trees having full canopies with few signs of tree decline. Tree declines, such as that happening in E. wandoo, alter the foraging resources and habitat available to woodland birds.

Tantalising tongues: Male carpet pythons use chemoreception to differentiate among females

Publisher: CSIRO Publishing

Date: 2011

DOI: 10.1071/ZO11029

Abstract: For animals sparsely distributed across a landscape, finding and identifying a receptive female during a short breeding period can be a challenge for males. Many snakes appear to rely on the production of sex-specific pheromones to synchronise the timing of reproductive behaviour. The rare Australian south-west carpet python (Morelia spilota imbricata) displays non-aggressive mating aggregations of up to six males around a receptive female, suggesting that males are responding to some chemical signal that enables multiple males simultaneously to identify and locate the female. We investigated chemoreceptive response (tongue-flicking) of 10 male pythons under laboratory conditions to 12 (randomly ordered) treatments each presented for three minutes. Cutaneous chemicals (dissolved in hexane solvent) were collected on cotton buds from the skin of six female pythons and male responses to these were compared with six control treatments. Male pythons produced a greater number of tongue flicks during the first minute of each trial, with fewer in minutes 2 and 3. Male chemoreceptive response in the third minute varied significantly between treatments and was only maintained for trials presenting cutaneous chemicals collected from the three relatively largest female pythons. This experiment suggests that male carpet pythons can use chemoreception to obtain information about their social environment, identifying pheromone cues from large, potentially fecund females. This ability would be adaptive for male mate-selection behaviour and is likely to also reduce costs of searching behaviour.

The effect of fleece on core and rumen temperature in sheep

Publisher: Elsevier BV

Date: 12-2008

DOI: 10.1016/J.JTHERBIO.2008.07.002

Does woodland condition influence the diversity and abundance of small mammal communities?

Publisher: CSIRO Publishing

Date: 2014

DOI: 10.1071/AM13007

Abstract: Loss of mammal species in Australia in the last 200 years has been attributed to many factors including habitat removal and altered fire regimes. Decline in tree condition could contribute further to the ongoing decline of mammals. Eucalyptus wandoo trees are currently undergoing a decline in condition that can result in a loss of canopy and other changes to the habitat. This paper examines the relationships between E. wandoo tree condition, habitat characteristics and small mammal species richness and abundance. Live-capture trapping was conducted at 24 E. wandoo sites at Dryandra State Forest and Wandoo Conservation Park, Western Australia. Condition and microhabitat variables of E. wandoo were recorded for each site. Generalised additive mixed models revealed a range of habitat and tree condition characteristics that influenced small mammal abundance and species richness, including site litter cover, crown dieback, understorey vegetation cover and tree density. The availability of coarse woody debris played a large role in explaining the abundance of Cercartetus concinnus and Antechinus flavipes, along with other microhabitat and tree condition variables, such as tree leaf litter and crown dieback. Epicormic growth, crown density and the distance to the drift fence from E. wandoo trees were the common variables in the best model for the abundance of Sminthopsis griseoventer. The decline in condition of E. wandoo and the subsequent modifications to the microhabitat are correlated with changes in the small mammal community. A better understanding of how the decline of E. wandoo impacts small mammal communities could improve management practices in E. wandoo woodlands.

Tree hollows are of conservation importance for a Near-Threatened python species

Publisher: Wiley

Date: 27-09-2012

DOI: 10.1111/J.1469-7998.2011.00852.X

Validating the Use of Qualitative Behavioral Assessment as a Measure of the Welfare of Sheep During Transport

Publisher: Informa UK Limited

Date: 19-02-2015

DOI: 10.1080/10888705.2015.1005302

Abstract: We tested the application of qualitative behavioral assessment (QBA) as a welfare assessment tool. Sheep were exposed to road transport treatments, and behavioral expressions were compared between experimental treatments and validated by correlation with physiological measures. We compared journeys differing in ventilation (closed vs. open-sided trailer), flooring (grip vs. nongrip flooring), and driving styles (stop-start vs. continuous driving). Blood s les were collected immediately before loading and after unloading heart rate and core body temperatures were recorded continuously. Continuous video footage was edited to show in idual sheep to observers for QBA using free-choice profiling (observers used their own descriptive terms). There was significant consensus in observers' scores for the sheep in each experiment (p < .001). Observers distinguished between sheep exposed to flooring (p = .014) or driving-style (p = .005) treatments, but not between ventilation treatments. QBA scores were compared (p < .05) with plasma leptin, glucose, and insulin-like growth factor-1 concentrations white blood cell profiles red blood cell counts hematocrit body temperatures and heart rate variability. Observer assessments reflected treatment differences, and correlations between behavioral expression and physiological responses were found.

Mechanism and rate of glucose absorption differ between an Australian honeyeater (Meliphagidae) and a lorikeet (Loriidae)

Publisher: The Company of Biologists

Date: 15-11-2008

DOI: 10.1242/JEB.020644

Abstract: Efficient mechanisms of glucose absorption are necessary for volant animals as a means of reducing mass during flight: they speed up gut transit time and require smaller volume and mass of gut tissue. One mechanism that may be important is absorption via paracellular (non-mediated) pathways. This may be particularly true for nectarivorous species which encounter large quantities of sugar in their natural diet. We investigated the extent of mediated and non-mediated glucose absorption in red wattlebirds Anthochaera carunculata (Meliphagidae) and rainbow lorikeets Trichoglossus haematodus (Loriidae) to test the hypothesis that paracellular uptake accounts for a significant proportion of total glucose uptake in these species. We found that routes of glucose absorption are highly dynamic in both species. In lorikeets, absorption of l-glucose(non-mediated uptake) is slower than that of d-glucose (mediated and non-mediated uptake), with as little as 10% of total glucose absorbed by the paracellular pathway initially (contrasting previous indirect estimates of∼0%). Over time, however, more glucose may be absorbed via the paracellular route. Glucose absorption by both mediated and non-mediated mechanisms in wattlebirds occurred at a faster rate than in lorikeets, and wattlebirds also rely substantially on paracellular uptake. In wattlebirds, we recorded higher bioavailability of l-glucose (96±3%)compared with d-glucose (57±2%), suggesting problems with the in vivo use of radiolabeled d-glucose. Further trials with 3-O-methyl-d-glucose revealed high bioavailability in wattlebirds (90±5%). This non-metabolisable glucose analogue remains the probe of choice for measuring uptake rates in vivo, especially in birds in which absorption and metabolism occur extremely rapidly.

Dietary intake effects on arginine vasotocin and aldosterone in cloacal fluid of whitebellied sunbirds (Nectarinia talatala)

Publisher: Elsevier BV

Date: 08-2004

DOI: 10.1016/J.CBPB.2004.06.006

Detecting, but not affecting, nest-box occupancy

Publisher: CSIRO Publishing

Date: 2010

DOI: 10.1071/WR09111

Abstract: Context. Nest boxes are a useful tool in the reintroduction, conservation and monitoring of many hollow-using species. Aims. All forms of nest-box monitoring involve some form of invasion, often upsetting their continued use by occupants. We conducted a pilot study to investigate and validate the innovative use of temperature dataloggers (iButtons®) to remotely monitor nest-box use, leaving the nest-box occupants untouched. Methods. In captivity, iButton recordings revealed the duration and time of day when each of the three nest-box designs was occupied by Pseudocheirus occidentalis (western ringtail possums) the accuracy of occupancy data was validated by unobtrusive infrared video recording. In the field, where translocated P. occidentalis and naturally occurring Trichosurus vulpecula (common brushtail possum) populations are present, hair s ling at the nest-box entrances (in addition to iButton recording) was used to identify the mammal species present. Key results. Nest-box use by captive P. occidentalis validated iButtons as a useful remote-monitoring tool, with –6% error for two nest-box designs. Although there was limited use of nest boxes at the field site, our results confirmed that iButtons are useful for remote-monitoring of nest-box use in the field iButton data revealed both short ( h) and long ( h) periods of continuous occupancy (T. vulpecula only). In addition to the convenience (to researcher and animal) of continuous (24-h) monitoring with minimal disturbance, a major advantage from using iButtons is that occupancy can be matched with environmental temperature or rainfall records, as well as other events (e.g. storms or frost). Conclusions. iButtons are a useful remote-monitoring tool of nest boxes, and it is possible that their use in this manner may be extended to tree-hollow occupation. Most importantly, this approach can inform us as to the conditions under which the nest boxes are used by fauna, as well as preferences for different nest-box designs. Implications. It is important to note that the criteria used for determining the presence or absence in the nest box (i.e. temperature difference, Tin– Tout, of 2°C) in the present study will not be relevant for all nest-box designs and before using these methods, the thermal properties of the nest box or tree hollow will require investigation.

Avian community changes following drought-induced canopy collapse in a Mediterranean-type forest

Publisher: CSIRO Publishing

Date: 19-09-2022

DOI: 10.1071/PC22005

Abstract: Context Extreme drought can result in the widespread die-off of forests and dramatically altered ecosystem structure. Such changes are likly to influence fauna using resouces within these forests. Aims Following a record hot and dry year/summer in 2010/11, large-scale canopy collapse occurred within a Mediterranean-type mixed jarrah (Eucalyptus marginata)–marri (Corymbia calophylla) forest in south-west Western Australia. We investigated the effects of this collapse on bird assemblages in 2016, 5 years after the initial collapse. Methods We carried out bird surveys using a standardised search method for five paired drought-affected and adjacent healthy forest plots. Key results A total of 3042 records of 51 bird species were observed across all surveys. Overall, the pooled (mean ± s.d.) reporting rates for drought-affected plots (13.84 ± 0.60 in iduals/survey) were significantly less than the reporting rates for healthy plots (34.44 ± 1.03 in iduals/survey) (PERMANOVA: F1 = 54.94, R2 = 0.31, P = 0.001). Species ersity was also higher in healthy plots (t26 = 11.21, P 0.001). Foliage-searching birds were the most abundant guild across all plots and were reported less often in drought-affected plots (t6 = 2.70, P 0.04). Conclusions Drought-affected jarrah forest plots exhibited significant differences in bird assemblages compared to healthy plots. Overall, the drought-affected forest provides a less favourable habitat for birds compared to healthy forest. Implications With marked variability and extreme climate events predicted for the future, understanding the impacts of such changes will contribute to how we manage forest ecosystems.

Animal welfare indicators for sheep during sea transport: Monitoring health and behaviour

Publisher: Elsevier BV

Date: 07-2021

DOI: 10.1016/J.APPLANIM.2021.105354

Signs of wildlife activity and Eucalyptus wandoo condition

Publisher: CSIRO Publishing

Date: 2014

DOI: 10.1071/AM13022

Abstract: Soil disturbance by terrestrial vertebrates when foraging for food and shelter is not only a sign of activity but an ecosystem function required for soil health. Many forests and woodlands worldwide are currently showing signs of a decline in condition due to various causes. Eucalyptus wandoo, endemic to south-west Western Australia, has undergone a decline in condition over the last decade. This paper explores the influence of E. wandoo condition (e.g. loss of canopy) and the associated changes in the habitat (e.g. changes in leaf litter and bare ground cover) on the foraging activities and soil disturbance by vertebrates. The number of diggings and scats, a representation of the foraging effort by some vertebrates, were recorded in Dryandra Woodland and Wandoo Conservation Park, Western Australia. Mixed-model ANOVAs were used to explore the relationships between the number of scats and diggings with tree and habitat characteristics. More vertebrate diggings and scats were recorded beneath healthier E. wandoo trees. Diggings and scats were also correlated with time since last fire and seasonal differences, with more time since last fire and wetter months related to more diggings and scats. Changes in foraging effort, or turnover of soil by vertebrates, could be a result modification of the level of soil turnover and alter many ecosystem services such as tree recruitment and nutrient cycling, in turn altering the habitat quality and even tree condition itself.

The sensitivity of QBA assessments of sheep behavioural expression to variations in visual or verbal information provided to observers

Publisher: Elsevier BV

Date: 2015

DOI: 10.1017/S1751731114003164

Counting the bodies: estimating the numbers and spatial variation of Australian reptiles, birds and mammals killed by two invasive mesopredators

Publisher: Wiley

Date: 15-03-2022

DOI: 10.1111/DDI.13497

Abstract: Introduced predators negatively impact bio ersity globally, with insular fauna often most severely affected. Here, we assess spatial variation in the number of terrestrial vertebrates (excluding hibians) killed by two mammalian mesopredators introduced to Australia, the red fox ( Vulpes vulpes ) and feral cat ( Felis catus ). We aim to identify prey groups that suffer especially high rates of predation, and regions where losses to foxes and/or cats are most substantial. Australia. We draw information on the spatial variation in tallies of reptiles, birds and mammals killed by cats in Australia from published studies. We derive tallies for fox predation by (i) modelling continental‐scale spatial variation in fox density, (ii) modelling spatial variation in the frequency of occurrence of prey groups in fox diet, (iii) analysing the number of prey in iduals within dietary s les and (iv) discounting animals taken as carrion. We derive point estimates of the numbers of in iduals killed annually by foxes and by cats and map spatial variation in these tallies. Foxes kill more reptiles, birds and mammals (peaking at 1071 km −2 year −1 ) than cats (55 km −2 year −1 ) across most of the unmodified temperate and forested areas of mainland Australia, reflecting the generally higher density of foxes than cats in these environments. However, across most of the continent – mainly the arid central and tropical northern regions (and on most Australian islands) – cats kill more animals than foxes. We estimate that foxes and cats together kill 697 million reptiles annually in Australia, 510 million birds and 1435 million mammals. This continental‐scale analysis demonstrates that predation by two introduced species takes a substantial and ongoing toll on Australian reptiles, birds and mammals. Continuing population declines and potential extinctions of some of these species threatens to further compound Australia's poor contemporary conservation record.

There will be blood: Autohaemorrhage behaviour as part of the defence repertoire of an insect

Publisher: Wiley

Date: 21-07-2009

DOI: 10.1111/J.1469-7998.2009.00582.X

Miombo woodland termite mounds: resource islands for small vertebrates?

Publisher: Wiley

Date: 02-2003

DOI: 10.1017/S0952836902003084

Are giraffes pollinators or flower predators of Acacia nigrescens in Kruger National Park, South Africa?

Publisher: Cambridge University Press (CUP)

Date: 18-04-2006

DOI: 10.1017/S0266467405003123

Just drop it and run: The effect of limb autotomy on running distance and locomotion energetics of field crickets (Gryllus bimaculatus)

Publisher: The Company of Biologists

Date: 15-04-2007

DOI: 10.1242/JEB.02757

Abstract: This is the first study to examine the direct metabolic costs of autotomy,the voluntary shedding of an appendage as an escape mechanism, in invertebrates. We investigated the effects of limb autotomy upon endurance and metabolic cost of locomotion in the field cricket Gryllus bimaculatus. Compared with control (intact) crickets, animals that had autotomised a single hindlimb were slower, stopped more often, moved a shorter distance and expended more energy doing so. Both the cost of locomotion (COT)and minimal cost of locomotion (MCOT) were significantly higher for autotomised animals. We compare these data with locomotion energetics of 36 other invertebrate species, and discuss the results in terms of the biomechanics of walking in crickets.

Do bird species richness and community structure vary with mistletoe flowering and fruiting in Western Australia?

Publisher: Informa UK Limited

Date: 03-2014

DOI: 10.1071/MU12098

Osmoregulatory response to acute diet change in an avian nectarivore: rapid rehydration following water shortage

Publisher: Elsevier BV

Date: 07-2004

DOI: 10.1016/J.CBPB.2004.04.003

Quantifying efficacy of feral pig (Sus scrofa) population management

Publisher: CSIRO Publishing

Date: 2019

DOI: 10.1071/WR18100

Abstract: Abstract ContextFeral pigs (Sus scrofa) are an increasing threat to agriculture and ecological communities globally. Although ground rooting is their most readily observable sign, feral pigs typically remain highly cryptic and their abundance and impacts are difficult to quantify. AimsThe aim of the present study was to evaluate the effect of current feral pig population management practices (trapping, baiting, no feral pig management) on feral pig abundance and digging impacts, using a BACI (before–after control–impact) experimental design at a landscape scale. MethodsA monitoring program was established to quantify both the abundance and digging impacts of feral pig populations within a temperate sclerophyll forest landscape using distance s ling. Transects were established across eight drinking water catchments where the whole catchment was the unit of replication for feral pig population management. Monitoring was carried out at 6-monthly intervals for 3 years, with no feral pig population management undertaken in the first year. In total, 367 feral pigs were trapped out of three catchments subject to trapping, and 26 were baited across two catchments subject to baiting with a commercial product (PIGOUT, Animal Control Technologies Australia, Melbourne, Vic., Australia). Three catchments were exempt from feral pig population management for the duration of this study. Key resultsFeral pig density within the overall study site was estimated as 1.127pigskm–2, resulting in 4580diggingskm–2year–1. There was no significant difference in feral pig density estimates observed among population management treatments or the treatment×year interaction term. An overall decrease in feral pig density across all catchments was attributed to extreme temperature and drought conditions experienced during the study. ConclusionsFeral pig populations demonstrate high resilience to current feral pig population management practices in the present study. The annual volume of soil disturbed by the numbers of feral pigs estimated across this study area is comparable to a commercial-scale resource extraction industry. We did not find significant differences in feral pig digging density among dominant vegetation types, but larger digs were associated with sw vegetation. ImplicationsCurrent levels of feral pig population management did not reduce pig densities across eight catchments in the northern jarrah forest therefore, more intensive population management is needed.

A conservation-significant threatened mammal uses fire exclusions and shifts ranges in the presence of prescribed burning

Publisher: CSIRO Publishing

Date: 31-07-2023

DOI: 10.1071/WF22196

The animal welfare, environmental impact, pest control functions, and disease effects of free‐ranging cats can be generalized and all are grounds for humanely reducing their numbers

Publisher: Wiley

Date: 19-09-2023

DOI: 10.1111/CSP2.13018

Response to Wolf et al.: Furthering Debate over the Suitability of Trap-Neuter-Return for Stray Cat Management

Publisher: MDPI AG

Date: 23-02-2020

DOI: 10.3390/ANI10020362

Abstract: To continue dialogue over proposed Australian trials of Trap-Neuter-Return (TNR), we applied a framework requiring identification of areas of agreement, areas of disagreement, and identification of empirical data collection required to resolve disagreements. There is agreement that Australia has a problem with stray cats, causing problems of impacts on wildlife, nuisance, disease transmission (including public health issues and exchange of diseases between stray cat and pet cat populations), poor welfare outcomes for stray cats, and an emotional burden on staff euthanising healthy stray cats. There is disagreement on whether (i) current measures are failing, leading to unacceptably high euthanasia levels, (ii) some contributors to the debate misunderstand TNR, (iii) TNR trials will reduce urban cat populations and associated problems, (iv) TNR is an ethical solution to cat overpopulation, and (v) some contributors to the debate promulgated misinformation. Although not everyone agrees that TNR trials should proceed, as a hypothetical exploration, we propose an experimental approach explicitly comparing TNR to alternatives. Trials could only be considered if other detailed and well-funded attempts at stray cat control focusing across an entire Local Government Area (LGA) prove ineffective.

Influences of behaviour and physiology on body mass gain in the woylie (Bettongia penicillata ogilbyi) post-translocation

Publisher: CSIRO Publishing

Date: 2019

DOI: 10.1071/WR18105

Abstract: Context Temperament can affect an in idual’s fitness and survival if it also influences behaviours associated with predator avoidance, interactions with conspecifics, refuge selection and/or foraging. Furthermore, temperament can determine an in idual’s response to novel stimuli and environmental challenges, such as those experienced through translocation. Increasing our understanding of the effect of temperament on post-translocation fitness is thus necessary for improving translocation outcomes. Aims The aim was to test whether differences in an in idual’s behaviour or physiology could help predict body mass changes post-translocation in the woylie (brush-tailed bettong, Bettongia penicillata ogilbyi). In the absence of predation (due to release into a predator-free exclosure), body mass was used as a proxy for an in idual’s success in securing resources in the new habitat, and therefore fitness. Methods Forty woylies were translocated from two predator-free exclosures to a larger exclosure, all in Western Australia. Behavioural and physiological measures were recorded during trapping, processing, holding, and release, and again at re-capture ~100 days post-release. Key results Translocated woylies generally increased in body mass post-translocation. This suggests that, in the absence of predation, the selected candidates were able to cope with the stress of translocation and possessed the behavioural plasticity to successfully find resources and adapt to a novel environment. The strongest predictors of body mass gain were sex, heart rate lability and escape behaviour when released (a convoluted escape path). Conclusions There was no significant difference in body mass between males and females pre-translocation but females showed greater mass gain post-translocation than did males, which could reflect greater investment in reproduction (all females had pouch young). Heart rate lability and escape behaviour are likely to reflect reactivity or fearfulness, a significant temperament trait in the context of translocation success. Implications Behavioural measures that can be easily incorporated into the translocation process – without increasing stress or affecting welfare of in iduals – may hold promise for predicting the fate of translocated animals.

Fish and amphibians

Publisher: Cambridge University Press

Date: 28-05-2015

DOI: 10.1017/CBO9781107447189.007

Direct and indirect costs of limb autotomy in field crickets, Gryllus bimaculatus

Publisher: Elsevier BV

Date: 2005

DOI: 10.1016/J.ANBEHAV.2004.04.006

Invertebrates

Publisher: Cambridge University Press

Date: 28-05-2015

DOI: 10.1017/CBO9781107447189.008

Sex and the single (-eared) female: Leg function, limb autotomy and mating history trade-offs in field crickets (Gryllus bimaculatus)

Publisher: The Royal Society

Date: 22-11-2006

DOI: 10.1098/RSBL.2005.0408

Abstract: Both male and female field crickets ( Gryllus bimaculatus ) autotomize front (tympanal) limbs more slowly than hind limbs. Arguably, this pattern could reflect possible differences in the mechanism of limb autotomy. However, we demonstrate that, for females, limb autotomy is also dependent on their mating status: virgin females autotomize front legs significantly more slowly than mated females. This response suggests a central control for leg autotomy in these animals, and less readiness to autotomize a front leg, possibly because the tympanum is crucial for mate location.

Livestock guardian dog protection of free-range poultry from the red fox

Publisher: CSIRO Publishing

Date: 26-04-2022

DOI: 10.1071/AN21229

Abstract: Context Predation of layer chickens is a major issue for free-range egg producers. Using livestock guardian dogs (LGD) to protect free-ranging poultry is a possible option for producers, although there is little published literature regarding how the dogs protect chickens. Aims This case study was conducted at a free-range egg production farm in Western Australia, where red foxes (Vulpes vulpes) were a common predator of chickens prior to introducing Maremma LGD. We investigated LGD responses to experimental cues that might indicate fox incursion (fox urine and calls). Methods Four dogs were GPS tracked and monitored using camera traps. Over the first week, experimental fox cues were set out around the paddock boundaries, alternating with ‘non-cue’ experimental control nights. We recorded whether the LGD altered (1) their space use, (2) activity patterns (movement speed), or (3) behaviour in response to these cues. We also recorded (4) distances between LGD from known sightings of foxes. Key results The Maremmas appeared to work independently of each other, covering separate areas. There was no significant difference in overnight home range area by experimental fox cue treatment, but there was a significant (P 0.001) treatment × dog interaction term for distance moved. Three dogs spent most of their time at night around the chicken shelters and generally increased distances moved on experimental fox cue nights. The fourth dog was more bonded to people and did not alter its movements. Paradoxically, dogs rested more and barked less on experimental fox cue nights however, we recorded foxes on camera traps placed around the chicken shelters on 17 of the 23 nights of monitoring, and the high background activity level of foxes on this property compromised our experimental control (nights without experimental fox cues). The dogs did not move towards known fox sightings. Conclusions The Maremmas in this trial closely guarded the chicken shelters rather than maintaining the entire paddock as a predator-exclusion zone. Implications Understanding how guardian dogs behave when challenged by potential predators will help increase producers’ confidence in the efficacy of these dogs as a viable method to protect livestock from predation threat.

A comparison of pharmacokinetic methods for in vivo studies of nonmediated glucose absorption

Publisher: University of Chicago Press

Date: 03-2012

DOI: 10.1086/664669

Abstract: Two pharmacokinetic methods are used primarily to assess systematic bioavailability of orally dosed water-soluble compounds in vivo, but there have been no direct comparisons of the estimates obtained. The "area under the curve" (AUC) method employs a single oral dose of probe compound(s) followed by multiple blood s ling to obtain plasma concentration time curves. Separate injection of probe(s) followed by multiple blood s ling is used to calculate fractional elimination rate (K(el)) and distribution pool space (S). The "steady state feeding" method relies on ad lib. feeding of a marked diet, with a single blood s le taken to measure steady state feeding concentration of probe(s) K(el) is estimated from the decline in probe concentration in excreta after injection, with a single blood s le taken to estimate S. We compared these methods directly in the Australian red wattlebird (Anthochaera carnunculata), measuring absorption of (3)H-L-glucose. The K(el) values estimated using the steady state feeding protocol were significantly higher, and estimates of S and bioavailability consequently lower, compared with the AUC protocol. The AUC method relies on fewer assumptions and allows simultaneous comparisons of absorption by mediated and nonmediated (i.e., paracellular) mechanisms but cannot be easily applied to freely feeding animals. The steady state feeding method allows work with smaller species and exploration of the effects of feeding on nutrient uptake but requires careful attention to the validity of assumptions that increase error in the calculations.

Distinctive diets of eutherian predators in Australia

Publisher: The Royal Society

Date: 10-2022

DOI: 10.1098/RSOS.220792

Abstract: Introduction of the domestic cat and red fox has devastated Australian native fauna. We synthesized Australian diet analyses to identify traits of prey species in cat, fox and dingo diets, which prey were more frequent or distinctive to the diet of each predator, and quantified dietary overlap. Nearly half (45%) of all Australian terrestrial mammal, bird and reptile species occurred in the diets of one or more predators. Cat and dingo diets overlapped least (0.64 ± 0.27, n = 24 location/time points) and cat diet changed little over 55 years of study. Cats were more likely to have eaten birds, reptiles and small mammals than foxes or dingoes. Dingo diet remained constant over 53 years and constituted the largest mammal, bird and reptile prey species, including more macropods otoroids, wombats, monotremes and bandicoots/bilbies than cats or foxes. Fox diet had greater overlap with both cats (0.79 ± 0.20, n = 37) and dingoes (0.73 ± 0.21, n = 42), fewer distinctive items (plant material, possums/gliders) and significant spatial and temporal heterogeneity over 69 years, suggesting the opportunity for prey switching (especially of mammal prey) to mitigate competition. Our study reinforced concerns about mesopredator impacts upon scarce/threatened species and the need to control foxes and cats for fauna conservation. However, extensive dietary overlap and opportunism, as well as low incidence of mesopredators in dingo diets, precluded resolution of the debate about possible dingo suppression of foxes and cats.

Energy balance in the Whitebellied Sunbird Nectarinia talatala: constraints on compensatory feeding, and consumption of supplementary water

Publisher: Wiley

Date: 02-2003

DOI: 10.1046/J.1365-2435.2003.00692.X

Bioturbation by echidna (

Publisher: CSIRO Publishing

Date: 03-08-2022

DOI: 10.1071/ZO22019

Abstract: Bioturbation by digging animals is important for key forest ecosystem processes such as soil turnover, decomposition, nutrient cycling, water infiltration, seedling recruitment, and fungal dispersal. Despite their widespread geographic range, little is known about the role of the short-beaked echidna (Tachyglossus aculeatus) in forest ecosystems. We measured the density and size of echidna diggings in the Northern Jarrah Forest, south-western Australia, to quantify the contribution echidna make to soil turnover. We recorded an overall density of 298 echidna diggings per hectare, 21% of which were estimated to be less than 1 month old. The average size of digs was 50 ± 25 mm in depth and 160 ± 61 mm in length. After taking into account seasonal digging rates, we estimated that echidnas turn over 1.23 tonnes of soil ha−1 year−1 in this forest, representing an important role in ecosystem dynamics. Our work contributes to the growing body of evidence quantifying the role of these digging animals as critical ecosystem engineers. Given that the echidna is the only Australian digging mammal not severely impacted by population decline or range reduction, its functional contribution to health and resilience of forest ecosystems is increasingly important due to the functional loss of most Australian digging mammals.

The contribution of qualitative behavioural assessment to appraisal of livestock welfare

Publisher: CSIRO Publishing

Date: 2016

DOI: 10.1071/AN15101

Abstract: Animal welfare is increasingly important for the Australian livestock industries, to maintain social licence to practice as well as ensuring market share overseas. Improvement of animal welfare in the livestock industries requires several important key steps. Paramount among these, objective measures are needed for welfare assessment that will enable comparison and contrast of welfare implications of husbandry procedures or housing options. Such measures need to be versatile (can be applied under a wide range of on- and off-farm situations), relevant (reveal aspects of the animal’s affective or physiological state that is relevant to their welfare), reliable (can be repeated with confidence in the results), relatively economic to apply, and they need to have broad acceptance by all stakeholders. Qualitative Behavioural Assessment (QBA) is an integrated measure that characterises behaviour as a dynamic, expressive body language. QBA is a versatile tool requiring little specialist equipment suiting application to in situ assessments that enables comparative, hypothesis-driven evaluation of various industry-relevant practices. QBA is being increasingly used as part of animal welfare assessments in Europe, and although most other welfare assessment methods record ‘problems’ (e.g. lameness, injury scores, and so on), QBA can capture positive aspects of animal welfare (e.g. positively engaged with their environment, playfulness). In this viewpoint, we review the outcomes of recent QBA studies and discuss the potential application of QBA, in combination with other methods, as a welfare assessment tool for the Australian livestock industries.

Interruptions in nectar availability: responses of White-bellied Sunbirds (Cinnyris talatala) and Brown Honeyeaters (Lichmera indistincta)

Publisher: Informa UK Limited

Date: 09-2011

DOI: 10.1071/MU10032

Diet of dingoes in the West Kimberley, and the impact of linear clearing

Publisher: CSIRO Publishing

Date: 31-01-2022

DOI: 10.1071/AM21016

Abstract: Generalist predators, such as the dingo (Canis familiaris), frequently use linear clearings as movement corridors, increasing their mobility, landscape access, and sometimes modifying predator–prey relationships. We quantified the diet of the dingo in the West Kimberley region of Western Australia and tested the hypothesis that clearing of seismic lines would result in a change to the diet of dingoes. A total of 199 scats were collected from inside and outside the footprint of a seismic survey at three collection time points (before and twice after the disturbance). Overall, the diet of dingoes varied over seasons (P = 0.003), and between control and treatment sites (P = 0.013) however, there was no evidence of a shift in diet caused by seismic clearing (time × treatment interaction term, P = 0.848). Cattle were the most frequently occurring item (frequency of occurrence = 65% of 199 s les the greatest value recorded in Australia), with greater consumption of cattle in control and treatment sites at the end of the dry season compared to the early dry season, likely driven by an increase in cattle mortality and susceptibility to predation. Despite dingoes using seismic lines as movement corridors, there is little evidence that this results in a change in their diet.

Qualitative Behavioural Assessment of Bos indicus cattle after surgical castration

Publisher: Elsevier BV

Date: 02-2019

DOI: 10.1016/J.APPLANIM.2018.11.004

Defensive responses of gopher tortoises (Gopherus polyphemus) are influenced by risk assessment and level of habituation to humans

Publisher: Brill

Date: 2014

DOI: 10.1163/1568539X-00003184

Abstract: Species that are either sessile or too slow to resort to flight may instead rely on defences such as natural armour or protective structures, but they will still face the same economic decisions as do more mobile species about when to re-emerge from cover. The gopher tortoise ( Gopherus polyphemus ) is a species of conservation significance due to its important role as an ecosystem engineer and habitat loss due to human activities. In this study, we examined escape responses of gopher tortoises approached by a human observer. Our data supported our prediction that the level of disturbance would influence escape responses, with animals that were picked and handled taking longer to emerge and move off than animals that had simply been approached or approached and walked around. We also found that tortoises took half as long to extend their heads at our study site, where tortoises exposed to a high level of benign human activity over a long period, compared with an adjacent site where there had been minimal human interaction with tortoises. These data suggest that gopher tortoises adjust their escape responses according to the level of risk they are exposed to. Over the long-term, this plasticity in escape responses can potentially result in some level of habituation to human presence.

Salmonella in Free-Ranging Quokkas (Setonix brachyurus) from Rottnest Island and the Mainland of Western Australia

Publisher: MDPI AG

Date: 31-03-2020

DOI: 10.3390/ANI10040585

Abstract: Salmonella is a genus of Gram-negative, motile, and facultative anaerobic bacteria with a worldwide distribution that contaminates multiple substrates (vegetation, food, soil, and water) and inhabits the gastrointestinal tract of birds, reptiles, and mammals, including humans. Rottnest Island is a popular tourist destination and is abundantly inhabited by quokkas (Setonix brachyurus), a charismatic small wallaby. Current data on the association between Salmonella and quokkas on Rottnest Island are outdated by approximately 30 years. Additionally, previous studies on quokkas on this island and mainland Western Australia did not perform physical examinations or any diagnostic tests. The aim of the project was to assess the prevalence of Salmonella spp. in quokkas from Rottnest Island and mainland Western Australia and correlate the presence of the bacterium with the health of the animal. Ninety-two quokkas from Rottnest Island (n = 71) and populations on the mainland (n = 21) were screened for Salmonella, and a prevalence of 47.9% and 4.8%, respectively, was determined. A total of 16 serovars were identified from 37 isolates five of these serovars had previously not been described in the quokka. Salmonella appeared to have an effect on the haematology and blood chemistry of quokkas on Rottnest Island consistent with subclinical salmonellosis. The health of Rottnest Island quokkas, and their potential impact on the health of the visitors to the island, should continue to be monitored carefully.

The plant pathogen Phytophthora cinnamomi influences habitat use by the obligate nectarivore honey possum (Tarsipes rostratus)

Publisher: CSIRO Publishing

Date: 2016

DOI: 10.1071/ZO16019

Abstract: Introduced plant pathogens can devastate susceptible plant communities, and consequently impact on animal communities reliant on plants for food and habitat. Specifically, plant pathogens change the floristic ersity of vegetation communities, thereby reducing availability of food sources for fauna (e.g. pollen and nectar) and result in major changes to habitat structure when canopy and understorey plant species succumb to disease. Phytophthora cinnamomi poses a threat to flowering plant species (e.g. Banksia species) which are important food sources for nectarivorous fauna. The honey possum (Tarsipes rostratus) is the only obligate nectarivorous non-flying mammal living on a restrictive diet of nectar and pollen consequently, these tiny mammals are likely to be particularly vulnerable to the landscape-wide devastation caused by P. cinnamomi. We investigated habitat selection by honey possums in a vegetation community infested with P. cinnamomi to determine how these mammals respond to habitat affected by this pathogen. Over four seasons, 18 honey possums were fitted with radio-transmitters and tracked to identify habitat preferences. Vegetation surveys were compared for locations selected by honey possums (as determined from tracking) and randomly selected sites. Radio-tracking revealed that sites selected by honey possums were significantly taller, denser, and more floristically erse than their paired random locations. The presence of P. cinnamomi influences habitat use by honey possums, but animals show resilience in terms of using the best of what is available in both P. cinnamomi–affected and unaffected locations. Habitat patches comprising less susceptible species, or plants that have yet to succumb to infection, provide refuge and food resources for honey possums. Management to reduce the spread of existing P. cinnamomi infestations and prevent contamination of new locations will benefit vegetation communities and associated faunal communities, while identifying honey possum food plant species that are resilient to the pathogen may support revegetation attempts.

Frequency of tail loss reflects variation in predation levels, predator efficiency, and the behaviour of three populations of brown anoles

Publisher: Oxford University Press (OUP)

Date: 03-05-2011

DOI: 10.1111/J.1095-8312.2011.01646.X

The tripartite relationship between a bioturbator, mycorrhizal fungi, and a key Mediterranean forest tree

Publisher: Wiley

Date: 25-03-2018

DOI: 10.1111/AEC.12598

Osmoregulation in an avian nectarivore, the whitebellied sunbird Nectarinia talatala: response to extremes of diet concentration

Publisher: The Company of Biologists

Date: 06-2003

DOI: 10.1242/JEB.00351

Abstract: Water intake of nectarivores is intrinsically linked to nectar concentration. Osmoregulation in whitebellied sunbirds Nectarinia talatala (body mass 9.3±0.1 g, mean ± S.D., N=7),was examined by feeding them sucrose solutions, equivalent to extreme diet concentrations (0.07–2.5 mol l–1 sucrose 2–65%w/w), with and without supplementary drinking water. Total water gain was 33–515% of body mass daily. Cloacal fluid (CF) volume increased with diet dilution from 0.4% to 309% of body mass while increases in evaporative water loss (obtained by difference) were also recorded. Osmolality of CF demonstrated the largest scope yet recorded for a bird and was significantly correlated with water flux: mean values were 6–460 mosm kg–1 H2O (minimum 3, maximum 1900 mosm kg–1). When supplementary water was provided, its consumption by birds fed concentrated diets (2.5 mol l–1 sucrose) led to a dramatic reduction in CF osmolality, from 461±253 to 80±119 mosm kg–1 fluid. Sunbirds maintained energy balance on sucrose diets varying tenfold in concentration, from 0.25 to 2.5 mol l–1 however, on extremely dilute diets (0.07 and 0.1 mol l–1 sucrose, lower than natural nectar concentrations) their inability to maintain energy balance was probably due to excess preformed water. Total osmotic excretion and concentrations of Na+ and K+ increased with high water fluxes, and are a possible physiological constraint for nectarivorous birds on artificial dilute diets devoid of electrolytes. Even low electrolyte levels in nectars may be adequate to replace these losses, but other physiological limitations to the intake of dilute nectars are increased energetic costs of solute recovery, increased heat loss and interference with digestive processes. Sunbirds therefore deal with sugar solutions spanning the range of nectar concentrations by shutting down water excretion on concentrated diets, or, on dilute diets, by producing extremely dilute CF with some of the lowest solute concentrations recorded.

Males are selective too: Mating, but not courtship, with sequential females influences choosiness in male field crickets (Gryllus bimaculatus)

Publisher: Springer Science and Business Media LLC

Date: 22-10-2006

DOI: 10.1007/S00265-005-0083-Y

Remote Identification of Sheep with Flystrike Using Behavioural Observations

Publisher: MDPI AG

Date: 18-06-2019

DOI: 10.3390/ANI9060368

Abstract: Flystrike is a major problem affecting sheep in Australia. Identification of ‘flystruck’ in iduals is crucial for treatment but requires labour-intensive physical examination. As the industry moves toward more low-input systems there is a need for remote methods to identify flystruck in iduals. The aim of this study was to investigate the behaviour of sheep with breech flystrike within a paddock setting. Video footage of sixteen Merino sheep eight later confirmed with flystrike and eight without was collected as they moved freely within the paddock with conspecifics. Quantitative behavioural measurements and a qualitative behavioural assessment (QBA) were conducted and compared to their breech conditions (i.e., faecal/urine staining flystrike severity). Both qualitative and quantitative assessments indicated behavioural differences between flystruck and non-flystruck animals. Flystruck sheep had a behavioural profile characterised by restless behaviour abnormal postures and reduced grazing time (p 0.05). Furthermore flystruck sheep were scored to have a more ‘exhausted/irritated’ demeanour using QBA (p 0.05). The behavioural responses also corresponded to the flystrike severity scores and condition of the breech area. We conclude that remotely assessed behaviour of flystruck sheep erges markedly from non-flystruck sheep and thus could be a low-input method for identifying and treating affected animals.

Habitat islands in a sea of urbanisation

Publisher: Elsevier BV

Date: 12-2017

DOI: 10.1016/J.UFUG.2017.10.016

Are tourism and conservation compatible for ‘island tame’ species?

Publisher: Wiley

Date: 14-08-2017

DOI: 10.1111/ACV.12301

Is the loss of australian digging mammals contributing to a deterioration in ecosystem function?

Publisher: Wiley

Date: 30-09-2014

DOI: 10.1111/MAM.12014

Immunisation against gonadotrophin-releasing hormone (GnRH) reduces agonistic behaviours in male rangeland goats

Publisher: CSIRO Publishing

Date: 2016

DOI: 10.1071/AN15076

Abstract: Rangeland goat bucks were used to evaluate the efficacy of a commercially available anti-gonadotrophin-releasing hormone vaccine, Improvac (Zoetis Australia, West Ryde, NSW, Australia). The hypothesis tested was that immunisation would suppress testosterone secretion by the testis and agonistic behaviour between male goats. We also compared intervals of 2 and 4 weeks between primary and booster immunisations and monitored responses over a 2-month period. The 45 goats were split into three groups (n = 15): one group receiving the vaccination booster on Day 14, one group receiving the vaccination booster on Day 28, and the Control group receiving sterile saline injections. Body mass, body condition score and scrotal circumference were measured fortnightly, and blood was collected at 2-week intervals and analysed for testosterone concentration. Behavioural interaction tests of 2-min duration were also conducted fortnightly. There was a significant decrease in paired testicular circumference (P 0.05) and testosterone concentration (P 0.01) in both vaccination groups by the end of the experiment at Day 60, compared with the Control group. Agonistic interactions measured at Day 60 were significantly reduced in both vaccination groups (P 0.05) compared with the Control group. These results support the efficacy of Improvac in reducing agonistic behaviours in rangeland goat bucks and suggest that the use of the vaccine may assist in reducing social stress and possible injury in groups of confined male goats.

Camera traps show foxes are the major predator of flatback turtle nests at the most important mainland western Australian rookery

Publisher: CSIRO Publishing

Date: 2023

DOI: 10.1071/WR22109

Role of insects in the pollination of Acacia nigrescens (Fabaceae)

Publisher: Elsevier BV

Date: 2007

DOI: 10.1016/J.SAJB.2006.06.010

Diet of the introduced red fox Vulpes vulpes in Australia: analysis of temporal and spatial patterns

Publisher: Wiley

Date: 27-05-2021

DOI: 10.1111/MAM.12251

Abstract: The red fox Vulpes vulpes is one of the world’s most widespread carnivores. A key to its success has been its broad, opportunistic diet. The fox was introduced to Australia about 150 years ago, and within 30 years of its introduction was already recognised as a threat to livestock and native wildlife. We reviewed 85 fox diet studies (totalling 31693 s les) from throughout the species’ geographic range within Australia. Mammals were a major component of fox diet, being present in 70 ± 19% of s les across n = 160 locations. Invertebrates (38 ± 26% n = 130) and plant material (26 ± 25% n = 123) were also both staple foods and often the dominant food category recorded. Birds (13 ± 11% n = 137) and reptiles (10 ± 15% n = 132) were also commonly reported, while frogs were scarcely represented (1.6 ± 3.6% n = 111) in fox diet studies. Biogeographical differences reveal factors that likely determine prey availability. Diet composition varied with ecosystem, level of vegetation clearing and condition, and climate zone. S le type (i.e. stomach versus scat s les) also significantly influenced reporting of diet composition. Livestock and frogs were underrepresented in records based on analysis of scats, whereas small mammals (native rodents, dasyurid marsupials, and bats) were more likely to be recorded in studies of scats than in studies of stomach contents. Diet varied seasonally, reflecting activity patterns of prey species and food availability. This synthesis also captures temporal shifts in fox diet over 70 years (1951–2020), as foxes have switched to consuming more native species in the wake of successful broadscale biological control of the invasive European rabbit Oryctolagus cuniculus . Diet analyses, such as those summarised in this review, capture the evidence required to motivate for greater control of foxes in Australia. This synthesis also highlights the importance of integrated pest species management to meet bio ersity conservation outcomes.

The sweet life: diet sugar concentration influences paracellular glucose absorption

Publisher: The Royal Society

Date: 17-06-2008

DOI: 10.1098/RSBL.2008.0253

Abstract: Small birds and bats face strong selection pressure to digest food rapidly in order to reduce digesta mass carried during flight. One mechanism is rapid absorption of a high proportion of glucose via the paracellular pathway (transfer between epithelial cells, not mediated by transporter proteins). Intestinal paracellular permeability to glucose was assessed for two nectarivorous passerines, the Australian New Holland honeyeater ( Phylidonyris novaehollandiae ) and African white-bellied sunbird ( Cinnyris talatala ) by measuring the bioavailability of radiolabelled, passively absorbed l -glucose. Bioavailability was high in both species and increased with diet sugar concentration (honeyeaters, 37 and 81% and sunbirds, 53 and 71% for 250 and 1000 mmol l −1 sucrose diets, respectively). We conclude that the relative contribution of paracellular to total glucose absorption increases with greater digesta retention time in the intestine, and paracellular absorption may also be modulated by factors such as intestinal lumen osmolality and interaction with mediated glucose uptake. The dynamic state of paracellular absorption should be taken into account in future studies.

Changes in nectar concentration: how quickly do whitebellied sunbirds (Cinnyris talatala) adjust feeding patterns and food intake?

Publisher: Springer Science and Business Media LLC

Date: 29-04-2008

DOI: 10.1007/S00360-008-0269-5

Abstract: Nectarivorous birds encounter varying nectar concentrations while foraging on different food plants and must adjust their consumption to maintain constant energy intake. We determined how rapidly captive whitebellied sunbirds (Cinnyris talatala) adjust their volumetric intake and feeding patterns after changes in diet concentration. On four consecutive days, birds were fed sucrose diets alternating between a standard diet of 16% w/w and test diets of 2.5, 8.5, 16 or 30% w/w, respectively, for 1.5 h periods. Feeding events were recorded with an infrared photo-detection system and food intake and body mass were monitored continuously by electronic balances interfaced to a computer. Generally, birds demonstrated a measurable increase in feeding frequency and food intake within 10 min after a decrease in sucrose concentration. However, in iduals responded differently to the most dilute diet (2.5%): while most increased their food intake, others stopped feeding for a short while, appearing to dislike this diet. Furthermore, the number and duration of feeding events increased in the first 5 min after the switch from 2.5% back to 16%, as the birds attempted to compensate for previous reduced sugar intake. Daily sugar intake was lower when birds alternated between 2.5 and 16% diets than on other test days, but birds were able to maintain body mass, presumably through behavioural adjustments.

Predation by red foxes (Vulpes vulpes) at an outdoor piggery

Publisher: MDPI AG

Date: 08-10-2016

DOI: 10.3390/ANI6100060

Foraging activity by the southern brown bandicoot (Isoodon obesulus) as a mechanism for soil turnover

Publisher: CSIRO Publishing

Date: 2012

DOI: 10.1071/ZO13030

Abstract: Mammals that forage for food by biopedturbation can alter the biotic and abiotic characteristics of their habitat, influencing ecosystem structure and function. Bandicoots, bilbies, bettongs and potoroos are the primary digging marsupials in Australia, although most of these species have declined throughout their range. This study used a snapshot approach to estimate the soil turnover capacity of the southern brown bandicoot (Isoodon obesulus, Shaw 1797), a persisting digging Australian marsupial, at Yalgorup National Park, Western Australia. The number of southern brown bandicoots was estimated using mark–recapture techniques. To provide an index of digging activity per animal, we quantified the number of new foraging pits and bandicoot nose pokes across 18 plots within the same area. The amount of soil displaced and physical structure of foraging pits were examined from moulds of 47 fresh foraging pits. We estimated that an in idual southern brown bandicoot could create ~45 foraging pits per day, displacing ~10.74 kg of soil, which extrapolates to ~3.9 tonnes of soil each year. The digging activities of the southern brown bandicoots are likely to be a critical component of soil ecosystem processes.

Scavenging Opportunities Modulate Escape Responses over a Small Geographic Scale

Publisher: Wiley

Date: 14-02-2017

DOI: 10.1111/ETH.12587

Does habitat structure influence capture probabilities? A study of reptiles in a eucalypt forest

Publisher: CSIRO Publishing

Date: 2009

DOI: 10.1071/WR09014

Abstract: Pitfall traps are commonly used to examine differences in reptile communities among habitat types and disturbance regimes that differ in structure. However, capture rates and probabilities may be influenced by habitat structure, which invalidates comparisons of relative abundance among habitat types. To assess whether pitfall traps provide accurate reflections of density and whether habitat structure affects capture probabilities, we trapped at six sites in various jarrah-forest habitat types in south-western Australia, then intensively searched 150-m2 total-removal plots around each pitfall grid to obtain absolute densities of reptiles. Pitfall captures were significantly correlated with numbers on total-removal plots for Hemiergis initialis and Lerista distinguenda, indicating that pitfall traps provided accurate reflections of density for these species. Capture probabilities of H. initialis and L. distinguenda and all reptiles combined showed no significant correlations with any structural variables, indicating that capture probabilities were consistent across sites. We conclude that trapping provided accurate estimates of relative abundance for some species and that capture probabilities were not influenced by vegetation structure. Because many studies use trapping to estimate abundances among habitat types, we encourage researchers to investigate how vegetation structure influences capture probabilities, so that general patterns can be determined we also suggest improvements for any future studies.

Nine ways to score nine lives – identifying appropriate methods to age domestic cats (Felis catus)

Publisher: Wiley

Date: 06-03-2021

DOI: 10.1111/JZO.12869

Abstract: Accurate determination of chronological age for cats ( Felis catus ) permits assessment of age at reproduction and growth measures, whilst understanding survivorship enables modelling of population dynamics underpinning many management questions. At present, the relative accuracy of different measures has not been compared, especially in relation to ageing live cats, where options are more limited. We tested relationships between nine ageing methods using a large database of 384 unowned, free‐roaming cats culled as part of wildlife conservation and unowned cat management. Cat heads were cleaned and scored for tooth eruption, development of the canines (root closure, length and width proportion of pulp determined by radiography), canine tooth cementum lines, tooth wear (canine tip sharpness and breakage, or absence of the P 2 ), diastema distance and closure of two cranial sutures. Tooth eruption is informative for cats up to about 8 months of age and closure of the canine root up to 12 months. In adults with closed‐rooted canine teeth, only the cementum lines and cranial sutures varied these two sets of measures were strongly correlated. We conclude by developing a predictive table for ageing cat specimens using tooth and skull features. Animals can be aged reliably over the lifespan of the animal from cadaver material, potentially adding valuable information to ecological studies where cats are culled. However, there is no way to reliably age live cats over approximately 8 months of age in the field, after which time full adult dentition is established. Similarly, radiography (to determine pulp volume) has limited use as an ageing tool for cats older than 1–2 years of age. This reduces the number of potential applications for live cats, including, for ex le, ageing unowned cats in trap–neuter–release programmes.

Big city life: Carnivores in urban environments

Publisher: Wiley

Date: 19-04-2012

DOI: 10.1111/J.1469-7998.2011.00887.X

Anatomy of the cavernous muscles of the kangaroo penis highlights marsupial–placental dichotomy

Publisher: Wiley

Date: 06-01-2019

DOI: 10.1111/JOA.12930

Leave it all behind: A taxonomic perspective of autotomy in invertebrates

Publisher: Wiley

Date: 10-07-2007

DOI: 10.1111/J.1469-185X.2007.00020.X

Application of Qualitative Behavioural Assessment to horses during an endurance ride

Publisher: Elsevier BV

Date: 02-2013

DOI: 10.1016/J.APPLANIM.2012.12.001

How many mature microhabitats does a slow-recolonising reptile require? Implications for restoration of bauxite minesites in south-western Australia

Publisher: CSIRO Publishing

Date: 2011

DOI: 10.1071/ZO10046

Abstract: If we are to accelerate the recolonisation of restored areas by slow-recolonising species, we must provide suitable microhabitats at appropriate densities. Previous research in south-western Australia has shown that Napoleon’s skink (Egernia napoleonis) rarely recolonises restored areas. We trapped Napoleon’s skink in restoration and unmined forest to confirm the species was late successional. We also radio-tracked six skinks in unmined forest, to determine types and characteristics of used microhabitats, and estimated home ranges to determine required microhabitat densities, with the aim of accelerating skink recolonisation of restored areas. All tracked skinks used logs and hollow-bearing trees. Used logs were larger, and used trees were larger and taller than random s les, probably because large logs and trees were more likely to contain cracks and hollows that provide a refuge from predators. Extrapolations from home-range estimates indicated that a minimum of four logs ha–1 are required in restored areas to facilitate recolonisation by skinks, with skink densities likely to increase with log densities. Our study demonstrated that not all fauna will naturally recolonise restored areas and management of these areas is required to provide suitable habitat for late-successional species. Our approach could potentially be applied to other ecosystems or species.

Added salt helps sunbirds and honeyeaters maintain energy balance on extremely dilute nectar diets

Publisher: Springer Science and Business Media LLC

Date: 29-06-2010

DOI: 10.1007/S00360-010-0493-7

Abstract: Nectar-feeding birds ingest excess water and risk loss of solutes when they excrete it. Previous work has shown that white-bellied sunbirds (Cinnyris talatala) are unable to maintain energy balance on extremely dilute sucrose diets without salts (e.g. <0.25 mol l(-1)), and that they lose more electrolytes (i.e. Na(+) and K(+)) via cloacal fluid on these diets than on more concentrated diets. Using white-bellied sunbirds and New Holland honeyeaters (Phylidonyris novaehollandiae) we tested the effect of adding electrolytes to a 0.1 mol l(-1) sucrose diet, by including equimolar NaCl and KCl at concentrations from 5 to 40 mmol l(-1) and the in idual salts at 20 mmol l(-1). Addition of salts enabled both species to drink significantly more of the 0.1 mol l(-1) sucrose diet than in the absence of salts, and mass loss during the experiment was reduced when salt was included. The larger honeyeaters may be more susceptible to electrolyte depletion than the smaller sunbirds. On 20 mmol l(-1) combined salts, both sunbirds and honeyeaters consumed eight times their body mass in fluid daily. KCl alone had no effect. Birds are thus limited in their consumption of extremely dilute diets by increasing losses of Na(+). This was confirmed by measuring plasma Na(+) levels, which decreased in both species in the absence of dietary Na(+). In addition, sucrose assimilation efficiencies were slightly, but significantly lower when sunbirds were fed salt-free diet, while glucose levels in ureteral urine remained extremely low. It is concluded that Na(+) depletion on very dilute salt-free diets does not affect Na(+)-glucose transport activity in the kidney, but interferes with sugar digestion and/or assimilation in the intestine.

Environmental conditions predict helminth prevalence in red foxes in Western Australia

Publisher: Elsevier BV

Date: 12-2013

DOI: 10.1016/J.IJPPAW.2013.04.004

How to catch red foxes red handed: Identifying predation of freshwater turtles and nests

Publisher: CSIRO Publishing

Date: 2016

DOI: 10.1071/WR16066

Abstract: Context Predation is one of the key contributors to mortality in freshwater turtles. Confirming the identity of predators is an important step towards conservation management action. Throughout Australia, the red fox (Vulpes vulpes) is suspected to apply significant and unsustainable predation pressure to turtle populations, killing adults and depredating nests however methods for confirming this are limited. Aims The present study used a range of methods to confirm predation of oblong turtle (Chelodina colliei) nests and adults by the introduced red fox. Methods First, depredated adult carapaces, and turtle egg-shell fragments from excavated nests were swabbed and analysed for trace DNA. Second, we used artificial turtle nests, monitored by camera traps, to analyse seasonal changes in the behaviour of foxes around sites where turtle nests are present, including over the nesting season. Last, we used scat analysis to identify the prevalence of turtle remains in fox diet. Key results Predominantly fox DNA was recovered from both adult carapaces and depredated eggs. In addition, camera traps recorded only foxes depredating artificial nests. Despite this evidence that foxes kill adults and excavated nests, we found that turtle remains were only a small part of the diet of foxes at this study site (hatchling or turtle egg shell were present in only 4% of 230 scats s led). The diet of these foxes was largely anthropogenic-sourced foods, such as fruit (e.g. figs, grapes, melons 81% of scats), sheep carrion (41%) and rodents (36%). Conclusions We conclude that DNA analysis, camera trapping and scat analysis are effective methods of identifying foxes as predators of adult turtle, and their nests. Furthermore, we found that anthropogenic foods (orchard crops, livestock or synanthropic species) may subsidise greater fox population size than might occur in their absence, thereby increasing potential pressure on these freshwater turtles. Implications Our findings give credence to the argument that foxes are effective predators of turtle adults and nests. In addition, the high proportion of anthropogenic food sources in the diet of foxes, and potential subsidisation, is an important consideration for land managers.

Body size and group size of Cuban tree frog (Osteopilus septentrionalis) tadpoles influence their escape behaviour

Publisher: Springer Science and Business Media LLC

Date: 13-07-2015

DOI: 10.1007/S10211-014-0201-9

To cut a long tail short: A review of lizard caudal autotomy studies carried out over the last 20 years

Publisher: Wiley

Date: 22-12-2009

DOI: 10.1111/J.1469-7998.2008.00484.X

Diet and bite force in red foxes: ontogenetic and sex differences in an invasive carnivore

Publisher: Wiley

Date: 06-05-2017

DOI: 10.1111/JZO.12463

Qualitative Behavioural Assessment of Angus steers during pre-slaughter handling and relationship with temperament and physiological responses

Publisher: Elsevier BV

Date: 12-2012

DOI: 10.1016/J.APPLANIM.2012.10.016

Ontogenetic shift in diet of a large elapid snake is facilitated by allometric change in skull morphology

Publisher: Springer Science and Business Media LLC

Date: 14-03-2022

DOI: 10.1007/S10682-022-10164-X

Abstract: As snakes are limbless, gape-limited predators, their skull is the main feeding structure involved in prey handling, manipulation and feeding. Ontogenetic changes in prey type and size are likely to be associated with distinct morphological changes in the skull during growth. We investigated ontogenetic variation in diet from stomach contents of 161 Dugite specimens ( Pseudonaja affinis , Elapidae) representing the full range of body size for the species, and skull morphology of 46 specimens (range 0.25–1.64 m snout-vent-length SVL). We hypothesised that changes in prey type throughout postnatal ontogeny would coincide with distinct changes in skull shape. Dugites demonstrate a distinct size-related shift in diet: the smallest in iduals ate autotomised reptile tails and reptiles, medium-sized in iduals predominantly ate mammals, and the largest in iduals had the most erse diet, including large reptiles. Morphometric analysis revealed that ~40% of the variation in skull shape was associated with body size (SVL). Through ontogeny, skulls changed from a smooth, bulbous cranium with relatively small trophic bones (upper and lower jaws and their attachments), to more rugose bones (as a likely reflection of muscle attachment) and relatively longer trophic bones that would extend gape. In idual shape variation in trophic bone dimensions was greater in larger adults and this likely reflects natural plasticity of in iduals feeding on different prey sizes/types. Rather than a distinct morphological shift with diet, the ontogenetic changes were gradual, but positive allometry of in idual trophic bones resulted in disproportionate growth of the skull, reflected in increased gape size and mobility of jaw bones in adults to aid the ingestion of larger prey and improve manipulation and processing ability. These results indicate that allometric scaling is an important mechanism by which snakes can change their dietary niche.

Melatonin secretion in a strictly subterranean mammal, the Damaraland mole‐rat ( Cryptomys damarensis )

Publisher: Wiley

Date: 11-2003

DOI: 10.1017/S0952836903004254

Mechanical similarity across ontogeny of digging muscles in an Australian marsupial (Isoodon fusciventer)

Publisher: Wiley

Date: 02-2019

DOI: 10.1002/JMOR.20954

Abstract: Many mammals dig, either during foraging to access subsurface food resources, or in creating burrows for shelter. Digging requires large forces produced by muscles and transmitted to the soil via the skeletal system thus fossorial mammals tend to have characteristic modifications of the musculoskeletal system that reflect their digging ability. Bandicoots (Marsupialia: Peramelidae) scratch-dig mainly to source food, searching for subterranean food items including invertebrates, seeds, and fungi. They have musculoskeletal features for digging, including shortened, robust forelimb bones, large muscles, and enlarged muscle attachment areas. Here, we compared changes in the ontogenetic development of muscles associated with digging in the Quenda (Isoodon fusciventer). We measured muscle mass (m

Does body size influence thermal biology and diet of a python (Morelia spilota imbricata)?

Publisher: Wiley

Date: 16-11-2012

DOI: 10.1111/J.1442-9993.2011.02318.X

Jettisoning ballast or fuel? Caudal autotomy and locomotory energetics of the Cape dwarf gecko Lygodactylus capensis (Gekkonidae)

Publisher: University of Chicago Press

Date: 11-2009

DOI: 10.1086/605953

Abstract: Many lizard species will shed their tail as a defensive response (e.g., to escape a putative predator or aggressive conspecific). This caudal autotomy incurs a number of costs as a result of loss of the tail itself, loss of resources (i.e., stored in the tail or due to the cost of regeneration), and altered behavior. Few studies have examined the metabolic costs of caudal autotomy. A previous study demonstrated that geckos can move faster after tail loss as a result of reduced weight or friction with the substrate however, there are no data for the effects of caudal autotomy on locomotory energetics. We examined the effect of tail loss on locomotory costs in the Cape dwarf gecko Lygodactylus capensis ( approximately 0.9 g) using a novel method for collecting data on small lizards, a method previously used for arthropods. We measured CO(2) production during 5-10 min of exhaustive exercise (in response to stimulus) and during a 45-min recovery period. During exercise, we measured speed (for each meter moved) as well as total distance traveled. Contrary to our expectations, tailless geckos overall expended less effort in escape running, moving both slower and for a shorter distance, compared with when they were intact. Tailless geckos also exhibited lower excess CO(2) production (CO(2) production in excess of normal resting metabolic rate) during exercising. This may be due to reduced metabolically active tissue (tails represent 8.7% of their initial body mass). An alternative suggestion is that a change in energy substrate use may take place after tail loss. This is an intriguing finding that warrants future biochemical investigation before we can predict the relative costs of tail loss that lizards might experience under natural conditions.

Digging mammals contribute to rhizosphere fungal community composition and seedling growth

Publisher: Springer Science and Business Media LLC

Date: 21-07-2018

DOI: 10.1007/S10531-018-1575-1

The good, the bad, and the ugly: which Australian terrestrial mammal species attract most research?

Publisher: Wiley

Date: 06-03-2016

DOI: 10.1111/MAM.12066

How important is the relationship between Protea humiflora (Proteaceae) and its non-flying mammal pollinators?

Publisher: Springer Science and Business Media LLC

Date: 08-2002

DOI: 10.1007/S00442-002-0921-9

Abstract: The interaction between Protea humiflora and its non-flying mammal pollinators was investigated with the aim of quantifying the relationship for both the plants and mammals involved. We manipulated flower density by inflorescence removal and determined the effect upon mammal captures, and excluded mammals to determine their effect upon seed set. Of three mammal species captured frequently, the smallest, Acomys subspinosus (18±4 SD g, Rodentia: Muridae), demonstrated the strongest relationship with P. humiflora. Breeding coincided with flowering, and pollen constituted 33.5±27.5% by volume (max 80%, n=19) of winter scats. Acomys captures on control grids were twice those on inflorescence-removal grids during flowering. Aethomys namaquensis (51±14 g, Rodentia: Muridae) included flower products in its diet (pollen comprising 3.2±4.9% of winter scats, n=73), but captures were not affected by inflorescence removal. Aethomys is a seasonal breeder and juveniles entered the population 2 months after flowering. Elephantulus edwardii, although an insectivore (48±7 g, Macroscelidea: Macroscelididae), carried more pollen grains on its nose than the rodents, acquired while foraging in inflorescences for insects. Pollen comprised 3.1±5.4% (n=23) of winter scats. From the plant perspective, seed set was significantly reduced in caged inflorescences and in those >20 cm above the ground, presumably due to limited accessibility by terrestrial animals. We conclude that small mammals are responsible for around half (56%) of the effective seed set in P. humiflora.

Urban remnant size alters fungal functional groups dispersed by a digging mammal

Publisher: Springer Science and Business Media LLC

Date: 29-09-2021

DOI: 10.1007/S10531-021-02287-4

Predator exposure enhances the escape behaviour of a small marsupial, the burrowing bettong

Publisher: Elsevier BV

Date: 05-2021

DOI: 10.1016/J.ANBEHAV.2021.02.013

Reptiles as food: predation of Australian reptiles by introduced red foxes compounds and complements predation by cats

Publisher: CSIRO Publishing

Date: 14-07-2021

DOI: 10.1071/WR20194

Abstract: Context Invasive species are a major cause of bio ersity loss across much of the world, and a key threat to Australia’s erse reptile fauna. There has been no previous comprehensive analysis of the potential impact of the introduced European red fox, Vulpes vulpes, on Australian reptiles. Aims We seek to provide an inventory of all Australian reptile species known to be consumed by the fox, and identify characteristics of squamate species associated with such predation. We also compare these tallies and characteristics with reptile species known to be consumed by the domestic cat, Felis catus, to examine whether predation by these two introduced species is compounded (i.e. affecting much the same set of species) or complementary (affecting different groups of species). Methods We collated records of Australian reptiles consumed by foxes in Australia, with most records deriving from fox dietary studies (tallying 000 s les). We modelled presence or absence of fox predation records against a set of biological and other traits, and population trends, for squamate species. Key results In total, 108 reptile species (~11% of Australia’s terrestrial reptile fauna) have been recorded as consumed by foxes, fewer than that reported for cats (263 species). Eighty-six species have been reported to be eaten by both predators. More Australian turtle species have been reported as consumed by foxes than by cats, including many that suffer high levels of predation on egg clutches. Twenty threatened reptile species have been reported as consumed by foxes, and 15 by cats. Squamate species consumed by foxes are more likely to be undergoing population decline than those not known to be consumed by foxes. The likelihood of predation by foxes increased with squamate species’ adult body mass, in contrast to the relationship for predation by cats, which peaked at ~217 g. Foxes, but not cats, were also less likely to consume venomous snakes. Conclusions The two introduced, and now widespread, predators have both compounding and complementary impacts on the Australian reptile fauna. Implications Enhanced and integrated management of the two introduced predators is likely to provide substantial conservation benefits to much of the Australian reptile fauna.

Fate of dried meat baits aimed at wild dog (Canis familiaris) control

Publisher: CSIRO Publishing

Date: 2018

DOI: 10.1071/WR17182

Abstract: Context Livestock predation is a worldwide phenomenon, causing financial losses and emotional strain on producers. Wild dogs (Canis familiaris) cause millions of dollars of damage to cattle, sheep and goat production in Australia every year, and despite on-going control (baiting, trapping, shooting, and fencing), they remain a significant problem for livestock producers across many pastoral and agricultural regions of Australia. Aims We aimed to quantify the uptake of dried meat baits by wild dogs and determine whether an olfactory lure (fish oil) could increase uptake. Methods Camera traps and sand pads were used to monitor bait uptake for three baiting events on two pastoral properties in the southern rangelands of Western Australia in 2016 and 2017. Key results Of the 337 monitored baits with a known outcome, young wild dogs ( months old) removed only four, three of which were covered in a fish-oil lure. In warmer months, baits were largely consumed by varanids, and in cooler months, when baits were taken it was predominantly by corvids. Varanids and corvids took more baits than expected on the basis of activity indices. Kangaroos, feral cats and wild dogs consumed significantly fewer baits than expected from their activity on camera. Conclusions We have no evidence that adult wild dogs removed baits, despite many opportunities to do so (wild dogs passing cameras), and fewer wild dogs took baits than expected on the basis of activity events seen on camera. Olfactory lures may have the potential to increase bait uptake by naïve in iduals (i.e. young dogs), but the s le size was small. Implications Increasing the number of baiting events per year, trialling novel baits, and baiting during low non-target activity are some of the recommended methods that may increase bait persistence and uptake by wild dogs.

Are negative effects of tourist activities on wildlife over-reported? A review of assessment methods and empirical results

Publisher: Elsevier BV

Date: 07-2017

DOI: 10.1016/J.BIOCON.2017.05.003

Predicting survivors: Animal temperament and translocation

Publisher: Oxford University Press (OUP)

Date: 2016

DOI: 10.1093/BEHECO/ARV242

Identifying unidirectional and dynamic habitat filters to faunal recolonisation in restored mine-pits

Publisher: Wiley

Date: 26-06-2012

DOI: 10.1111/J.1365-2664.2012.02152.X

Concentration and temperature effects on sugar intake and preferences in a sunbird and a hummingbird

Publisher: Wiley

Date: 04-2004

DOI: 10.1111/J.0269-8463.2004.00818.X

Tuart (Eucalyptus gomphocephala) decline is not associated with other vegetation structure and composition changes

Publisher: Springer Science and Business Media LLC

Date: 14-07-2018

DOI: 10.1007/S13313-018-0583-7

Does human pedestrian behaviour influence risk assessment in a successful mammal urban adapter?

Publisher: Wiley

Date: 12-06-2014

DOI: 10.1111/JZO.12156

Escape behaviour in shore crabs: constraints of body size and available shelter

Publisher: Wiley

Date: 19-08-2015

DOI: 10.1111/JZO.12276

Failure to launch? the influence of limb autotomy on the escape behavior of a semiaquatic grasshopper Paroxya atlantica (Acrididae)

Publisher: Oxford University Press (OUP)

Date: 2011

DOI: 10.1093/BEHECO/ARR045

Sexual selection on forelimb muscles of western grey kangaroos (Skippy was clearly a female)

Publisher: Oxford University Press (OUP)

Date: 23-04-2013

DOI: 10.1111/BIJ.12090

Environmental factors influence nest excavation by foxes

Publisher: Wiley

Date: 19-06-2014

DOI: 10.1111/JZO.12158

Living (and reproducing) on the edge: Reproductive phenology is impacted by rainfall and canopy decline in a Mediterranean eucalypt

Publisher: CSIRO Publishing

Date: 2016

DOI: 10.1071/BT15004

Abstract: Many of the worlds’ forests and woodlands are currently showing symptoms of declining condition due to a range of factors, including changing climatic conditions, drought and insect herbivory. Altered abiotic and biotic conditions can influence the condition of trees that can, in turn, affect tree reproductive cycles. However, the potential impact of tree decline on reproductive cycles has rarely been examined. This study investigated the influence of canopy condition on the reproductive cycle of Eucalyptus wandoo Blakely in south-western Australia. Canopy and seed trap monitoring were used to assess bud production, flowering, fruiting and seed fall over 12 months at 24 sites across two locations (Dryandra Woodland and Wandoo Conservation Park). Time since last fire, rainfall, ambient temperatures and the condition of in idual trees were recorded. We found that bud production, flowering and fruiting was correlated with tree condition: healthier trees were generally associated with higher reproductive effort. Time since last fire was also strongly related to the reproductive efforts at both locations. Declining annual rainfall and increased temperatures also impact on reproduction, made evident by the aborted flowering in Dryandra Woodland. Decline in tree condition, coupled with changes in climate, have major implications for flowering phenology of this species and have the potential to alter reproductive effort, recruitment and future population dynamics. Consideration of these issues should be incorporated into the conservation management of E. wandoo and similar Eucalypt species.

First in, first served: Uptake of 1080 poison fox baits in south-west Western Australia

Publisher: CSIRO Publishing

Date: 2014

DOI: 10.1071/WR13136

Abstract: Context In Western Australia, baits containing 1080 poison are widely used to control the red fox (Vulpes vulpes) for fauna conservation. Despite long-term (15–17 years) baiting programs, bait uptake by target and non-target species is largely unknown, but affects baiting efficacy. Aims We examined bait uptake of 1080-poisoned fox baits laid according to current practice at seven riparian sites in the northern jarrah forest (of south-west Western Australia). There, intensive baiting regimes have been implemented for the protection of quokka (Setonix brachyurus) populations. Methods Over 9 months, 299 Probait® baits were monitored regularly to determine their persistence, and, at 142 of these, Reconyx HC500 remote cameras were used to identify the species taking baits. To compare bait uptake with species presence at these sites, we calculated an activity index for each species from the number of passes of animals in front of the cameras. Key results The species taking baits was identified for 100 of the baits monitored with cameras, and, because of multiple species taking baits, 130 bait take incidents were recorded in total. The fate of 40 of the baits was not discernible and two baits were not removed. In all, 99% of baits monitored by cameras were taken by non-target species and quokkas took 48% of them. The majority of baits (62% of the total 299 monitored) were taken before or on the first night of deployment, and 95% of baits had been taken within 7 days. With the exception of feral pigs, which took more baits than predicted from their activity index at these sites, baits were taken in proportion to the activity index of species. Foxes were present at four of the seven sites, but only one fox was observed taking a bait. Conclusions The high level of uptake of baits by non-target animals reflects their ersity and abundance at these sites, but also significantly reduces the availability of baits to control foxes. Implications Strategies to reduce non-target bait uptake and increase bait availability for foxes are required.

Is the reptile community affected by Eucalyptus wandoo tree condition?

Publisher: CSIRO Publishing

Date: 2013

DOI: 10.1071/WR13015

Abstract: Context Large portions of the world’s forests and woodlands are currently affected by declines in canopy condition of dominant tree species however, the effects of these declines on faunal communities are largely unknown. Eucalyptus wandoo woodlands in the south-west region of Western Australia have demonstrated declines in condition since the early 1990s. Such declines in tree condition can result in reduced understorey vegetation, increased leaf-litter cover and coarse woody debris, potentially altering the habitat and resource available to reptiles. Prescribed fire events, another mechanism of habitat change for reptiles, are a common occurrence in these woodlands. Aims The present research investigated whether reptile communities were influenced by E. wandoo tree condition, and the changes in the habitat associated with E. wandoo decline. Methods Reptile trapping was conducted at 24 E. wandoo-dominated sites (of varying condition) in Dryandra State Forest and Wandoo Conservation Park, Western Australia. Overall, reptile abundance, species richness and in idual reptile species abundances (only those species captured in sufficient numbers for analysis) were compared with a range of habitat characteristics that are likely to be altered by changes in E. wandoo tree condition. Key results Overall, higher reptile abundance and species richness were observed at sites with longer time since fire and more site litter cover. There was also a greater abundance and ersity of reptiles at sites where E. wandoo trees exhibited fewer symptoms of tree decline. Similar analyses for the five most common skink species indicated species-specific relationships with tree-condition measures, time since last fire, site litter cover, distance to drift fence from E. wandoo trees, understorey vegetation density and the density of coarse woody debris. Conclusions Abundance and species ersity of the reptile communities in E. wandoo woodlands were strongly related to time since last fire, E. wandoo tree condition and habitat characteristics such as site litter cover and the density of coarse woody debris. Implications Decline in the condition of E. wandoo trees and the fire events in E. wandoo woodlands are both mechanisms of change correlated with reptile habitat and resources. Future management of E. wandoo woodlands may include reducing prescribed fire events in areas demonstrating symptoms of tree decline, to conserve reptile abundance and species richness.

Qualitative Behavioural Assessment as a Method to Identify Potential Stressors during Commercial Sheep Transport

Publisher: MDPI AG

Date: 15-11-2018

DOI: 10.3390/ANI8110209

Abstract: Land transport is an unavoidable experience for most livestock, yet there is limited research comparing animal welfare under different conditions. We video recorded sheep responses during short (2 h) commercial road transport journeys. Using Qualitative Behavioural Assessment, observers (blinded to the treatments) scored the behavioural expression of sheep and reached significant consensus in their scoring patterns (p 0.001). There were also significant effects of vehicle crate design (sheep transported in a ‘standard’ crate were more calm/relaxed than those transported in a ‘convertible’ crate), deck position (sheep on upper decks were more curious/alert than those on lower decks), and sheep breed (fat-tail sheep were more agitated/distressed than merino sheep) on observer scores. We only found marginal differences for sheep originating from feedlot or saleyard. Significant effects of vehicle driver (included as a random factor in all but one of our analyses) suggest driving patterns contributed to demeanour of the sheep. Finally, the fourteen drivers who participated in the study were asked their opinions on livestock transport none of the factors we tested were identified by drivers as important for sheep welfare during transport. This study supports the use of qualitative measures in transport and revealed differences that could inform truck design.

Mistletoebirds And Xylose: Australian Frugivores Differ In Their Handling Of Dietary Sugars

Publisher: University of Chicago Press

Date: 05-2014

DOI: 10.1086/675493

Abstract: Carbohydrate-rich mistletoe fruits are consumed by a wide range of avian species. Small birds absorb a large portion of water-soluble nutrients, such as glucose, via the paracellular pathway. d-xylose, a pentose monosaccharide, is abundant in some nectars and mistletoe fruits consumed by birds, and it has been suggested that it is most likely absorbed via the paracellular pathway in birds. We measured apparent assimilation efficiency ([Formula: see text]) and bioavailability (f) for d-xylose and d- and l-glucose in three frugivorous Australian bird species. Mistletoebirds, silvereyes, and singing honeyeaters showed significantly lower [Formula: see text] for d-xylose than for d-glucose. Across two diet sugar concentrations, silvereyes and singing honeyeaters significantly increased f of both l-glucose (a metabolically inert isomer of d-glucose commonly used to quantify paracellular uptake) and d-xylose on the more concentrated diet, probably because of increased gut processing time. By contrast, mistletoebirds (mistletoe fruit specialists) did not vary f of either sugar with diet concentration. Mistletoebirds also showed higher f for d-xylose than l-glucose and eliminated d-xylose more slowly than silvereyes and singing honeyeaters, demonstrating differences in the handling of dietary xylose between these species. Our results suggest that d-xylose may be absorbed by both mediated and nonmediated mechanisms in mistletoebirds.

Predator escape behaviour in threatened marsupials

Publisher: Wiley

Date: 02-01-2023

DOI: 10.1111/ACV.12847

Abstract: Escaping from predators is fundamental for the survival of any prey species. Australian fauna within the ‘critical weight range’ (CWR 35 g–5.5 kg) are vulnerable to introduced eutherian predators. The absence of co‐evolution between native marsupials and these novel predators may suggest that their antipredator behaviour towards the hunting strategies of these predators is inappropriate or ineffective. We quantified the escape behaviour of eight CWR marsupial taxa (three quadrupedal bandicoots and five bipedal macropods) to determine if differences in how they escape from predators indicate their ability to respond appropriately and effectively to introduced predators. Animals were filmed escaping through a runway and 20 measures relating to their gait, speed and path characteristics were recorded. These were reduced to four dimensions using multidimensional scaling (MDS): MDS1 linear speed versus agility, MDS2 acceleration style, MDS3 reactivity and MDS4 gait characteristics. We found a strong link between the phylogenetic relatedness of species and their use of linear speed or agility when fleeing (phylogenetic heritability, h 2 = 0.96). Bipedal macropod species used straight‐line, fast escapes, which may be suited to escape pursuit predators. The quadrupedal bandicoots had an overall slower escape but were more likely to use sudden changes of direction, which can be successful if pursued by a larger, less mobile predator or where there is sufficient vegetation cover to obstruct pursuit. Repeated exposure increased linear speed (MDS1) and hastened the timing of acceleration (MDS2). The phylogenetic signal for escape speed/straightness suggests specific escape tactics may be constrained by morphology, although animals increased the intensity of their response after repeated exposure, suggesting training could enhance effective antipredator responses.

Surveying Attitudes toward Reptiles on Roads: Questionnaire Responses Do Not Directly Translate to Behavioral Action

Publisher: Informa UK Limited

Date: 04-05-2019

DOI: 10.1080/08927936.2019.1598652

Is there evidence for a trade-off between sperm competition traits and forelimb musculature in the western grey kangaroo?

Publisher: Oxford University Press (OUP)

Date: 06-01-2018

DOI: 10.1093/BIOLINNEAN/BLX151

Exposure to non‐kin females rapidly affects testicular morphology in non‐reproductive male Damaraland mole‐rats

Publisher: Wiley

Date: 13-05-2010

DOI: 10.1111/J.1469-7998.2010.00712.X

Emerging Concepts of Stem Cell Organization in the Normal Lung and in Lung Cancer

Publisher: Springer Netherlands

Date: 27-02-2013

DOI: 10.1007/978-94-017-8032-2_2

Are observer ratings influenced by prescription? A comparison of Free Choice Profiling and Fixed List methods of Qualitative Behavioural Assessment

Publisher: Elsevier BV

Date: 04-2016

DOI: 10.1016/J.APPLANIM.2016.01.022

Developing an Animal Welfare Assessment Protocol for Livestock Transported by Sea

Publisher: MDPI AG

Date: 17-04-2020

DOI: 10.3390/ANI10040705

Abstract: Australian livestock industries face increased scrutiny from animal welfare groups and society, and the long-distance transport of livestock by sea has recently gained particular attention. Other than non-compliance with broad regulatory standards and voyage mortality rates, there is minimal information to ascertain the welfare of exported livestock. There is currently no standardised, validated animal welfare assessment protocol for livestock on-farm prior to live export or when undergoing transport. This study describes a novel assessment protocol suitable for use on live feeder and slaughter animals exported by sea from Australia. Health and welfare indicators for use in the livestock export supply chain were identified by reviewing three internationally recognised animal welfare assessment protocols for livestock Welfare Quality®, AWIN and AssureWel, as well as consulting with industry compliance standards and guidelines. This paper proposes a welfare protocol designed to assess sheep and beef cattle exported by sea from Australia, and incorporates environmental-, resource-, management- and animal-based measures. In collaboration with industry, this welfare protocol can be tested on commercial livestock consignments, and be used for ongoing management, for increased transparency and to provide feedback to operators for continuous improvement.

Qualitative behavioural assessment and quantitative physiological measurement of cattle naïve and habituated to road transport

Publisher: CSIRO Publishing

Date: 2011

DOI: 10.1071/AN10122

Abstract: The present study examined whether observers could distinguish between cattle that are naïve to road transport and the same cattle after becoming more habituated to transport. The behavioural expression of cattle was assessed through the method of qualitative behavioural assessment (QBA), and these assessments were correlated with various physiological parameters. Fourteen Angus steers were assessed during their first road trip and then again on their ninth trip, 15 days later. Blood s les were collected immediately before and after transport, and heart rate and core body temperature were measured continuously throughout each trip. Video footage recorded during each trip was edited and clips showing each in idual within the first 30 min of departure were randomly ordered and shown to observers for QBA. There was significant (P 0.001) consensus among 40 observers in their assessment of behavioural expression of the cattle. Transport-naïve cattle were described as more ‘agitated’, while transport-habituated were described as more ‘calm’. Core body temperature (P 0.01), plasma glucose (P 0.05) and the neutrophil : lymphocyte ratio (P 0.01) were higher for the first trip than for the habituated trip (P 0.01). QBA were significantly correlated with core body temperature (P 0.01), heart rate (P 0.01), plasma glucose (P 0.05) and the neutrophil : lymphocyte ratio (P 0.01). QBA appears to be a valid and integrative method of assessing cattle welfare under the conditions tested within the present study. There was significant consensus in the ability of human observers to interpret behavioural expression of cattle during this experiment. In addition, observers could identify differences in behavioural expression between cattle that were naïve versus habituated to transport, and these differences were supported by physiological measurements.

Body Size and Bite Force of Stray and Feral Cats—Are Bigger or Older Cats Taking the Largest or More Difficult-to-Handle Prey?

Publisher: MDPI AG

Date: 17-04-2020

DOI: 10.3390/ANI10040707

Abstract: As carnivorans rely heavily on their head and jaws for prey capture and handling, skull morphology and bite force can therefore reflect their ability to take larger or more difficult-to-handle prey. For 568 feral and stray cats (Felis catus), we recorded their demographics (sex and age), source location (feral or stray) and morphological measures (body mass, body condition) we estimated potential bite force from skull measurements for n = 268 of these cats, and quantified diet composition from stomach contents for n = 358. We compared skull measurements to estimate their bite force and determine how it varied with sex, age, body mass, body condition. Body mass had the strongest influence of bite force. In our s le, males were 36.2% heavier and had 20.0% greater estimated bite force (206.2 ± 44.7 Newtons, n = 168) than females (171.9 ± 29.3 Newtons, n = 120). However, cat age was the strongest predictor of the size of prey that they had taken, with older cats taking larger prey. The predictive power of this relationship was poor though (r2 0.038, p 0.003), because even small cats ate large prey and some of the largest cats ate small prey, such as invertebrates. Cats are opportunistic, generalist carnivores taking a broad range of prey. Their ability to handle larger prey increases as the cats grow, increasing their jaw strength, and improving their hunting skills, but even the smallest cats in our s le had tackled and consumed large and potentially ‘dangerous’ prey that would likely have put up a defence.

Review of Livestock Welfare Indicators Relevant for the Australian Live Export Industry

Publisher: MDPI AG

Date: 21-07-2020

DOI: 10.3390/ANI10071236

Abstract: Animal welfare is an important issue for the live export industry (LEI), in terms of economic returns, community attitudes and international socio-political relations. Mortality has traditionally been the main welfare measure recorded within the LEI however, high mortality incidents are usually acted upon after adverse events occur, reducing the scope for proactive welfare enhancement. We reviewed 71 potential animal welfare measures, identifying those measures that would be appropriate for use throughout the LEI for feeder and slaughter livestock species, and categorised these as animal-, environment- and resource-based. We ided the live export supply chain into three sectors: (1) Australian facilities, (2) vessel and (3) destination country facilities. After reviewing the relevant regulations for each sector of the industry, we identified 38 (sector 1), 35 (sector 2) and 26 (sector 3) measures already being collected under current practice. These could be used to form a ‘welfare information dashboard’: a LEI-specific online interface for collecting data that could contribute towards standardised industry reporting. We identified another 20, 25 and 28 measures that are relevant to each LEI sector (sectors 1, 2, 3, respectively), and that could be developed and integrated into a benchmarking system in the future.

Diversity of Bartonella species detected in arthropod vectors from animals in Australia

Publisher: Elsevier BV

Date: 09-2011

DOI: 10.1016/J.CIMID.2011.07.002

Abstract: A variety of Bartonella species were detected in two species of ticks and three species of fleas collected from marsupial hosts brush-tailed bettong or woylie (Bettongia penicillata) and western barred bandicoots (Perameles bougainville) and from a rodent host Rattus fuscipes in Western Australia. Bartonella species were detected using nested-PCR of the gltA gene and the 16S-23S ribosomal internal transcribed spacer region (ITS), and species were characterized using DNA sequencing of the 16S rRNA, gltA, rpoB, ftsZ genes and the ITS region. Bartonella rattaustraliani and B. coopersplainsensis were detected in Ixodes spp. ticks and fleas (Stephanocircus pectinipes) respectively collected from rodents. Two novel Bartonella species were detected from marsupials Candidatus Bartonella woyliei n. sp. was detected in both fleas (Pygiopsylla hilli) and ticks (Ixodes australiensis) collected from woylies and Candidatus Bartonella bandicootii n. sp. was detected in fleas (Pygiopsylla tunneyi) collected from western barred bandicoots. Concatenated phylogenetic analysis of all 5 loci clarified the marsupial cluster of Bartonella species in Australia and confirmed the species status of these two Bartonella species in ticks and fleas from woylies and western barred bandicoots, which are classified as threatened species and are vulnerable to extinction.

A self-training device to teach conservation-working dogs to avoid poison baits

Publisher: CSIRO Publishing

Date: 14-12-2021

DOI: 10.1071/WR21030

Abstract: Abstract Context Accidental poisoning of domestic dogs is a potential risk when using baits to control invasive animals. We developed and trialled an electrical device attached to a non-toxic bait to assess whether we could induce a learned aversion towards baits in conservation-working dogs. Aims We tested the device on conservation-working dogs licenced to enter conservation estate as part of feral pig control, and consequently are potentially exposed to lethal baits for controlling red foxes. Methods Over 1 year (up to seven separate training sessions per dog), 27 dogs were sequentially presented with electrified and non-electrified non-toxic baits and their behavioural responses were recorded. On-farm training (Days 0, 1, 7, Months 1, 12) comprised dogs being called by their owner standing nearby the electrified bait. If the dog touched the bait and demonstrated aversive behaviour (we assume that it received an electric shock or ‘correction’), it was then presented with a non-electrified bait. If they ate either bait, they were shown another electrified bait (up to three electrified baits per session). Key results Seventeen dogs (17/27) touched the bait and received a correction. Eleven dogs required only a single correction and did not touch another bait, three dogs needed two corrections, and two dogs needed three or four corrections. These 17 dogs showed increasing avoidance to the bait over successive training sessions (χ212 = 67.96, P 0.001), including avoiding looking at the bait, refusing to come within 5–10 m of the bait and their owner, or leaving the training vicinity. All these dogs (17/17) avoided baits encountered in a working environment (1/17 touched but did not consume a bait) and bait-aversion was still detected up to 1-year post-initial training. Nine dogs (9/27) did not appear to receive a correction or show any change in bait-aversion behaviour. One dog (1/27) showed no aversion to the stimulus and continued to eat baits. Conclusions Here we present a proof of concept for a deterrent device and associated experimental protocol to produce learned aversion behaviour in conservation-working dogs. Implications We demonstrated that it is possible to induce a learned aversion to baits in conservation-working dogs, thereby reducing the risk of accidental poisoning.

The influence of web silk decorations on fleeing behaviour of Florida orb weaver spiders, Argiope florida (Aranaeidae)

Publisher: Canadian Science Publishing

Date: 07-2013

DOI: 10.1139/CJZ-2012-0312

Abstract: Spider web silk decorations may (i) act to attract prey, (ii) be decoys for predators, and (iii) make the web visible to prevent larger animals from destroying them. To disentangle the last two hypotheses, we examined the fleeing response and flight initiation distance (FID) of the Florida orb weaver spider (Argiope florida Chamberlin and Ivie, 1944). Spiders were approached in one of two manners: (1) a “predatory” one mimicking a bird and (2) a “looming” approach mimicking the approach of a large animal. We predicted that if silk decorations had an antipredator function, then the extent of silk decoration would influence whether spiders fled from the predatory approach. However, if the function was primarily a signal to large animals, then all spiders would flee the looming approach, but FID would be influenced by the extent of silk decoration. We found no influence of silk decorations on fleeing behaviour and FID of spiders. Spider fleeing behaviour was, however, influenced by height of the web from the ground. The effects of web height might reflect an adaptive response to a more exposed position and therefore could support either of the two hypotheses tested however, we have no evidence supporting the role of silk decorations on antipredator responses.

Covariation between forelimb muscle anatomy and bone shape in an Australian scratch‐digging marsupial: Comparison of morphometric methods

Publisher: Wiley

Date: 22-10-2019

DOI: 10.1002/JMOR.21074

Abstract: The close association between muscle and bone is broadly intuitive however, details of the covariation between the two has not been comprehensively studied. Without quantitative understanding of how muscle anatomy influences bone shape, it is difficult to draw conclusions of the significance of many morphological traits of the skeleton. In this study, we investigated these relationships in the Quenda (Isoodon fusciventer), a scratch-digging marsupial. We quantified the relationships between forelimb muscle anatomy and bone shape for animals representing a range of body masses (124-1,952 g) using two-block partial least square analyses. Muscle anatomy was quantified as muscle mass and physiological cross-sectional area (PCSA), and we used two morphometric methods to characterize bone shape: seven indices of linear bone proportions, and landmarks analysis. Bone shape was significantly correlated with body mass, reflecting allometric bone growth. Of the seven bone indices, only shoulder moment index (SMI) and ulna robustness index (URI) showed a significant covariation with muscle anatomy. Stronger relationships between muscle anatomy and forelimb bone shape were found using the landmark coordinates: muscle mass and PCSA were correlated with the geometric shape of the scapula, humerus, and third metacarpal, but to a lesser extent with shape of the ulna. Overall, our data show that landmark coordinates are more sensitive than bone indices to capturing shape changes evident throughout ontogeny, and is therefore a more appropriate method to investigate covariation with forelimb muscle anatomy. Single-species studies investigating ontogeny require refined methods to accurately develop understanding of the important relationships between muscle force generation and bone shape remodeling. Landmark analyses provide such a method.

Sugar Preferences of Avian Nectarivores Are Correlated with Intestinal Sucrase Activity

Publisher: University of Chicago Press

Date: 09-2013

DOI: 10.1086/672013

Abstract: Nectar-feeding birds generally demonstrate preference for hexose solutions at low sugar concentrations, switching to sucrose/no preference at higher concentrations. Species vary in the concentration at which the switch from hexose preference occurs this could reflect physiological constraints that would also influence nectar selection when foraging. We recorded concentration-dependent sugar type preferences in three opportunistic/generalist Australian nectarivorous species: Dicaeum hirundinaceum, Zosterops lateralis, and Lichenostomus virescens. All three preferred hexoses up to sugar concentrations of 0.25 mol L(-1) and switched to sucrose/no preference for higher concentrations. Using these and literature records, we investigated physiological mechanisms that may explain the concentration dependence of sugar type preferences and compared diet preference data with foraging records. We measured sucrase activity in Z. lateralis and L. virescens as well as three specialized nectarivorous species (Anthochaera carunculata, Phylidonyris novaehollandiae, and Trichoglossus haematodus) for comparison with published concentration-dependent sugar preference data. Sucrase activity varied between these species ([Formula: see text]). The minimum diet concentration at which birds show no sugar preference was significantly correlated with sucrase activity for the 11 species analyzed ([Formula: see text]). Birds with the lowest sucrase activity showed hexose preference at higher diet concentrations, and birds with the greatest sucrase activity showed either no hexose preference or hexose preference on only the most dilute diets. Foraging data compiled from the literature also support the laboratory analyses for ex le, T. haematodus (preference for hexose over a wide range of diet concentrations, low sucrase activity) also feed primarily on hexose nectars in the wild. Intestinal sucrase activity is likely to contribute to diet selectivity in nectarivorous bird species.

Who are you looking at? Hadeda ibises use direction of gaze, head orientation and approach speed in their risk assessment of a potential predator

Publisher: Wiley

Date: 09-11-2011

DOI: 10.1111/J.1469-7998.2011.00846.X

Telling tails: Selective pressures acting on investment in lizard tails

Publisher: University of Chicago Press

Date: 11-2013

DOI: 10.1086/673864

Abstract: Caudal autotomy is a common defense mechanism in lizards, where the animal may lose part or all of its tail to escape entrapment. Lizards show an immense variety in the degree of investment in a tail (i.e., length) across species, with tails of some species up to three or four times body length (snout-vent length [SVL]). Additionally, body size and form also vary dramatically, including variation in leg development and robustness and length of the body and tail. Autotomy is therefore likely to have fundamentally different effects on the overall body form and function in different species, which may be reflected directly in the incidence of lost/regenerating tails within populations or, over a longer period, in terms of relative tail length for different species. We recorded data (literature, museum specimens, field data) for relative tail length (n=350 species) and the incidence of lost/regenerating tails (n=246 species). We compared these (taking phylogeny into account) with intrinsic factors that have been proposed to influence selective pressures acting on caudal autotomy, including body form (robustness, body length, leg development, and tail specialization) and ecology (foraging behavior, physical and temporal niches), in an attempt to identify patterns that might reflect adaptive responses to these different factors. More gracile species have relatively longer tails (all 350 spp., P < 0.001 also significant for five of the six families tested separately), as do longer (all species, P < 0.001 Iguanidae, P < 0.05 Lacertidae, P < 0.001 Scindidae, P < 0.001), climbing (all species, P < 0.05), and diurnal (all species, P < 0.01 Pygopodidae, P < 0.01) species geckos without specialized tails (P < 0.05) or active-foraging skinks (P < 0.05). We also found some relationships with the data for caudal autotomy, with more lost/regenerating tails for nocturnal lizards (all 246 spp., P < 0.01 Scindidae, P < 0.05), larger skinks (P < 0.05), climbing geckos (P < 0.05), or active-foraging iguanids (P < 0.05). The selective advantage of investing in a relatively longer tail may be due to locomotor mechanics, although the patterns observed are also largely consistent with predictions based on predation pressure.

Comparison of morphological and molecular methods to identify the diet of a generalist omnivore

Publisher: CSIRO Publishing

Date: 2020

DOI: 10.1071/WR19079

Sounds Scary? Lack of Habituation following the Presentation of Novel Sounds

Publisher: Public Library of Science (PLoS)

Date: 18-01-2011

DOI: 10.1371/JOURNAL.PONE.0014549

Candidatus Bartonella antechini: A novel Bartonella species detected in fleas and ticks from the yellow-footed antechinus (Antechinus flavipes), an Australian marsupial

Publisher: Elsevier BV

Date: 05-2011

DOI: 10.1016/J.VETMIC.2010.12.003

Abstract: Bartonella are fastidious, Gram-negative, aerobic bacilli belonging to the Alphaproteobacteria group. In the last ten years, the discovery of new Bartonella species from a variety of mammalian hosts, arthropod vectors and geographical areas has increased. More than 20 species of Bartonella have been identified, of which approximately thirteen are associated with disease in humans and animals. Recently, four novel species of Bartonella were isolated from mammalian hosts in Australia: Bartonella australis from eastern grey kangaroos (Macropus giganteus) and Bartonella rattaustraliani, Bartonella queenslandensis and Bartonella coopersplainsensis from rodents. Bartonella-like organisms have also been detected from Ixodes tasmani ticks collected from koalas (Phascolarctos cinereus). However, very little is known about Bartonella spp. in other marsupials in Australia. We report the identification of a novel Bartonella species detected from fleas (Acanthopsylla jordani) and ticks (Ixodes antechini) collected from a small carnivorous marsupial, Antechinus flavipes (Mardos or Yellow-footed antechinus) in the southwest of Western Australia. New nested-PCRs targeting the gltA gene and the ribosomal ITS region were developed as part of the present study. DNA sequencing of the 16S rRNA, gltA, ftsZ and rpoB genes and the ribosomal ITS region revealed that this detection is a distinct Bartonella species and is related to B. australis isolated from kangaroos. This is the first report of two different possible arthropod vectors in Australia (ticks and fleas) being infected with the same species of Bartonella. We propose the name Candidatus Bartonella antechini n. sp. for the recently characterized organism.

Circadian rhythm of water balance and aldosterone excretion in the whitebellied sunbird Nectarinia talatala

Publisher: Springer Science and Business Media LLC

Date: 05-2004

DOI: 10.1007/S00360-004-0419-3

Abstract: Nectarivorous whitebellied sunbirds, Nectarinia talatala, demonstrate distinct circadian patterns in osmoregulatory parameters. We recorded intake of a 1 mol/l sucrose solution which enabled calculation of total water gain, and collected cloacal fluid for measurements of volume, osmolality and aldosterone concentration. These variables were assessed hourly over 12 h of photophase, and averaged over the 12-h scotophase period. Overnight, when sunbirds were in negative water balance, aldosterone concentrations and outputs were significantly higher than diurnal levels, reflecting a shut-down of cloacal fluid production. Early morning was marked by a high rate of osmotic excretion, disproportionate to water gain or cloacal fluid output, followed by steady intake and cloacal fluid output during the morning and early afternoon. Reduced water flux (decreased feeding and cloacal fluid output) during mid-afternoon was accompanied by a paradoxical decline in osmotic excretion, whilst a significant increase in the discrepancy between water intake and output was recorded as the birds effectively stored water before the scotophase. These patterns of intake and excretion may be informative in explaining drinking and foraging behaviour in the field.

Characterization of inappetent sheep in a feedlot using radio tracking technology

Publisher: Oxford University Press (OUP)

Date: 25-01-2018

DOI: 10.1093/JAS/SKX004

Keeping an ear out: size relationship of the tympanic bullae and pinnae in bandicoots and bilbies (Marsupialia: Peramelemorphia)

Publisher: Oxford University Press (OUP)

Date: 10-07-2021

DOI: 10.1093/CZ/ZOAB055

Abstract: Bandicoots and bilbies (Order Peramelemorphia) occupy a broad range of habitats across Australia and New Guinea, from open, arid deserts to dense forests. This once erse group has been particularly vulnerable to habitat loss and introduced eutherian predators, and numerous species extinctions and range retractions have occurred. Understanding reasons for this loss requires greater understanding of their biology. Morphology of the pinnae and tympanic bullae varies markedly among species. As hearing is important for both predator avoidance and prey location, the variability in ear morphology could reflect specialization and adaptation to specific environments, and therefore be of conservation relevance. We measured 798 museum specimens representing 29 species of Peramelemorphia. Controlling for phylogenetic relatedness and head length, pinna surface area was weakly negatively correlated with average precipitation (rainfall being our surrogate measure of vegetation productivity/complexity), and there were no environmental correlates with effective diameter (pinna width). Controlling for phylogenetic relatedness and skull length, tympanic bulla volume was negatively correlated with precipitation. Species that inhabited drier habitats, which would be open and allow sound to carry further with less obstruction, had relatively larger pinnae and tympanic bullae. In contrast, species from higher rainfall habitats, where sounds would be attenuated and diffused by dense vegetation, had the smallest pinnae and bullae, suggesting that low-frequency hearing is not as important in these habitats. Associations with temperature did not reach statistical significance. These findings highlight linkages between hearing traits and habitat that can inform conservation and management strategies for threatened species.

Global meta‐analysis of tree decline impacts on fauna

Publisher: Wiley

Date: 05-05-2021

DOI: 10.1111/BRV.12725

Abstract: Significant portions of the world's forests have been impacted by severe and large‐scale tree declines characterised by gradual but widespread loss of vigour and subsequent death of either single or several tree species. Tree deaths represent a threat for fauna that are dependent on forest habitats for their survival. Although tree declines have received considerable scientific attention, surprisingly, little is known about their impacts on fauna. In total, we calculated 631 effect sizes across 59 studies that quantified the impact of tree declines on animal abundance. Data representing 186 bird species indicated an overall increase in bird abundance in response to tree declines (meta‐analysis mean ± estimation g = 0.172 ± 0.053 [CI 0.069 to 0.275], P = 0.001) however, there was substantial variability in responses (significant heterogeneity P 0.001) with a strong influence of diet as well as nesting guild on bird responses. Granivores (especially ground‐foraging species, e.g. Passerellidae species), bark‐foraging insectivores (e.g. woodpeckers), as well as ground‐ and cavity‐nesting species apparently benefitted from tree declines, while nectarivorous birds [and, although not significant, aerially foraging insectivores (e.g. flycatchers) and leaf‐gleaning insectivores (canopy‐feeding)] were less common in the presence of tree declines. Data representing 33 mammal species indicate a tendency for detrimental effects of tree declines on mammals that use trees as refuges, while aerial foragers (i.e. bats) may benefit from opening up the canopy. Overall the average effect for mammals was neutral (meta‐analysis mean estimation g = −0.150 ± 0.145 [−0.433 to 0.134], P = 0.302). Data representing 20 reptile species showed an insufficient range of responses to determine any diet or foraging effect on their responses. Data for 28 arthropod taxa should be considered with caution, as we could not adequately separate taxa according to their specialisations and reliance on key habitat. The data broadly suggest a detrimental effect of tree declines (meta‐analysis mean estimation g = −0.171 ± 0.072 [−0.311 to −0.031], P = 0.017) with ground‐foraging arthropods (e.g. detritivores and predators such as spiders and centipedes) more likely to be detrimentally impacted by tree declines. The range of responses to tree declines signifies substantially altered animal communities. In many instances, altered ecosystem function due to loss of key animal services will represent a significant threat to forest health.

Do thinning and burning sites revegetated after bauxite mining improve habitat for terrestrial vertebrates?

Publisher: Wiley

Date: 04-05-2010

DOI: 10.1111/J.1526-100X.2009.00526.X

Microbat responses to forest decline

Publisher: Wiley

Date: 25-10-2019

DOI: 10.1111/AEC.12671

What snake is that? Common Australian snake species are frequently misidentified or unidentified

Publisher: Informa UK Limited

Date: 25-05-2020

DOI: 10.1080/10871209.2020.1769778

Varying Opinions about Animal Welfare in the Australian Live Export Industry: A Survey

Publisher: MDPI AG

Date: 13-10-2020

DOI: 10.3390/ANI10101864

Abstract: There is significant public interest in the Australian live animal export industry and a need to develop a program that can measure and monitor animal welfare throughout the supply chain. An online survey of stakeholder opinions of this industry and animal welfare measures was carried out in 2015 with 921 respondents: 30% from the public who identified as animal welfare advocates (AWAs) 44% from the public who did not identify as AWAs (general public GP) 26% live export industry (LEI) workers. AWA and GP respondents expressed greater concern than LEI respondents for animal welfare throughout the supply chain but had less concern for animals at Australian feedlots than in other parts of the supply chain. The majority of AWA and GP respondents believed data collected on animal welfare should be made public and should be collected by independent welfare officers and used to regulate the industry and impose penalties for poor welfare. LEI workers believed that data should be confidential, collected by LEI workers and used by the industry to self-regulate. AWA and GP respondents rated the importance and practicality of a number of welfare indicators greater than LEI workers, while respondents shared an analogous view of the importance and practicality of these indicators. Results can be used to develop welfare assessments that ensure a better understanding between industry members and those not in the industry, while facilitating welfare improvements and promoting greater transparency for the live export industry.

Peak hour in the bush: linear anthropogenic clearings funnel predator and prey species

Publisher: Wiley

Date: 21-10-2018

DOI: 10.1111/AEC.12553

A different kind of ecological modelling: the use of clay model organisms to explore predator-prey interactions in vertebrates

Publisher: Wiley

Date: 12-2017

DOI: 10.1111/JZO.12415

Zoonotic bartonella species in fleas and blood from red foxes in australia

Publisher: Mary Ann Liebert Inc

Date: 12-2011

DOI: 10.1089/VBZ.2011.0646

Abstract: Bartonella are arthropod-borne, fastidious, Gram-negative, and aerobic bacilli distributed by fleas, lice, sand flies, and, possibly, ticks. The zoonotic Bartonella species, Bartonella henselae and Bartonella clarridgeiae, which are the causes of cat scratch disease and endocarditis in humans, have been reported from cats, cat fleas, and humans in Australia. However, to date, there has been no report of B. henselae or B. clarridgeiae in Australian wild animals and their ectoparasites. B. henselae and B. clarridgeiae were detected in fleas (Ctenocephalides felis) from red foxes (Vulpes vulpes), an introduced pest animal species in Australia, and only B. clarridgeiae was detected in blood from one red fox. Phylogenetic analysis of the ribosomal intergenic spacer region revealed that the B. henselae detected in the current study were related to B. henselae strain Houston-1, a major pathogenic strain in humans in Australia, and confirmed the genetic distinctness of B. clarridgeiae. The identification and characterization of Bartonella species in red foxes in the Southwest of Western Australia suggests that red foxes may act as reservoirs of infection for animals and humans in this region.

Nectar concentration affects sugar preferences in two Australian honeyeaters and a lorikeet

Publisher: Wiley

Date: 11-07-2008

DOI: 10.1111/J.1365-2435.2008.01401.X

Qualitative behavioral assessment of transport-naïve and transport-habituated sheep

Publisher: Oxford University Press (OUP)

Date: 12-2012

DOI: 10.2527/JAS.2010-3451

Abstract: Objective and issue-neutral qualitative assessments of livestock behavior could provide a powerful assessment of welfare, augmenting quantitative measures such as autonomic and endocrine changes, which are often difficult to assess under many commercial livestock conditions. We set out to validate the use of qualitative behavioral assessment (QBA) in sheep using controlled experimental conditions (transport as a challenge) and comparing assessments against physiological variables. The behavioral expression of 14 Merino wethers, which had never experienced land transport, were assessed during their first road event (naïve to transport), and then again on their seventh event, 8 d later (habituated to transport). Blood s les were collected immediately before loading and after unloading, and heart rate and core body temperature were measured continuously throughout each event. Continuous video footage recorded during each event was used to provide clips of in idual animals that were shown to observers for QBA. There was significant consensus (P < 0.001) amongst 63 observers in terms of their assessment of the behavioral expression of the sheep. Transport-naïve sheep were assessed as being more 'alert', 'anxious', and 'aware', whereas transport-habituated sheep were more 'comfortable', 'tired', and 'confident' (P = 0.015). Heart rate and heart rate variability, core body temperature and a stress leukogram were greater (P < 0.05) in sheep during the first (naïve) event compared with the habituated event, and were significantly correlated with the QBA scores (P < 0.05). In conclusion, QBA is a valid, practical and informative measure of behavioral responses to transport.

Investigation into the characteristics, triggers and mechanism of apnoea and bradycardia in the anaesthetized platypus (Ornithorhynchus anatinus)

Publisher: Oxford University Press (OUP)

Date: 05-12-2014

DOI: 10.1093/CONPHYS/COU053

Socialising piglets in lactation positively affects their post-weaning behaviour

Publisher: Elsevier BV

Date: 09-2014

DOI: 10.1016/J.APPLANIM.2014.06.001

Sex, intimidation and severed limbs: The effect of simulated predator attack and limb autotomy on calling and emergence behaviour in the field cricket Gryllus bimaculatus

Publisher: Springer Science and Business Media LLC

Date: 10-11-2006

DOI: 10.1007/S00265-005-0096-6

Flooring and driving conditions during road transport influence the behavioural expression of cattle

Publisher: Elsevier BV

Date: 2013

DOI: 10.1016/J.APPLANIM.2012.11.003

Australian Livestock Export Industry Workers’ Attitudes toward Animal Welfare

Publisher: MDPI AG

Date: 14-05-2021

DOI: 10.3390/ANI11051411

Abstract: Understanding live export industry workers’ attitudes and beliefs toward animal welfare can provide insight into their decision-making processes and likely behavior. Industry workers (n = 265) with various roles within the supply chain were surveyed from different global regions. Participants were ided into ten categories according to their industry roles and compared using ordinal regression. Respondents were highly likely to have a positive attitude toward animal welfare the majority of workers enjoyed working with livestock (95.8%) and agreed that livestock should be treated with respect (97.7%). Workers demonstrated a strong understanding of animal welfare concepts, 168 respondents (63.4%) provided ex les of ways they had improved animal welfare in their workplace, and 164 workers (61.9%) suggested ways that animal welfare could be improved further. Most workers (95.8%) agreed that animal welfare was satisfactory in their workplace. Five out of the 24 multiple-choice responses differed significantly by the participant’s industry role, but no particular group displayed consistently ergent beliefs or attitudes. Given the community concern regarding animals in the livestock export supply chain, it is imperative to understand the attitudes of industry personnel who are responsible for the daily management of the animals. This knowledge assists in the development of animal welfare policy and can inform strategies to manage public perception.

The importance of naked grasstrees (Xanthorrhoea preissii) as habitat for mardo (Antechinus flavipes leucogaster) during post-fire recovery

Publisher: CSIRO Publishing

Date: 2007

DOI: 10.1071/WR07035

Abstract: Grasstrees (Xanthorrhoea) are an important structural component of many Australian ecosystems and also an important resource for many fauna species. Grasstrees have distinctive morphologies, with a crown of long thin leaves and skirts, the latter of which are accumulated dead leaves both are incinerated by fire. This study determined the morphological features of Xanthorrhoea preissii, which change in response to fire from 6 months to 21 years post-burn. In addition, using radio-telemetry and spool-tracking, we determined that grasstrees are utilised as foraging and nesting resources for mardos (Antechinus flavipes leucogaster (Gray, 1841), Marsupialia: Dasyuridae). Recently burnt grasstrees (6 months post-burn) appeared not to be used by mardos at all. We found few mardos in these recently burnt sites, and the one in idual we managed to track for 126 m utilised only a single grasstree: a 2-m-tall multiple-crowned grasstree that had escaped the fire was used as a nest site. For sites 5 years post-burn, mardos selectively utilised grasstrees with larger crown areas and those with a greater number of crowns compared with a random s le of available trees. At the 14-year post-burn sites, mardos still demonstrated some selection for grasstrees, although no specific single feature could be determined as most significant. We recorded humidity and temperature buffering effects in association with post-burn accumulation of grasstree skirt material and found that even dead grasstree ‘logs’ were an important resource for nests. We conclude that mardos utilise both live and dead grasstrees for foraging and nest sites, possibly owing to the availability of dense cover, a buffered microclimate, and potentially also food resources. Fire-management policies that promote habitat heterogeneity and retain several intact-skirted grasstrees within the landscape are likely to benefit mardos.

Variation in red fox Vulpes vulpes diet in five continents

Publisher: Wiley

Date: 27-05-2022

DOI: 10.1111/MAM.12292

Abstract: Understanding variation in the diet of widely distributed species can help us to predict how they respond to future environmental and anthropogenic changes. We studied the diet of the red fox Vulpes vulpes , one of the world's most widely distributed carnivores. We compiled dietary data from 217 studies at 276 locations in five continents to assess how fox diet composition varied according to geographic location, climate, anthropogenic impact, and s ling method. The diet of foxes showed substantial variation throughout the species' range, but with a general trend for small mammals and invertebrates to be the most frequently occurring dietary items. The incidence of small and large mammals and birds in fox diets was greater away from the equator. The incidence of invertebrates and fruits increased with mean elevation, while the occurrence of medium‐sized mammals and birds decreased. Fox diet differed according to climatic and anthropogenic variables. Diet richness decreased with increasing temperature and precipitation. The incidence of small and large mammals decreased with increasing temperature. The incidence of birds and invertebrates decreased with increasing mean annual precipitation. Higher Human Footprint Index was associated with a lower incidence of large mammals and a higher incidence of birds and fruit in fox diet. S ling method influenced fox diet estimation: estimated percentage of small and medium‐sized mammals and fruit was lower in studies based on stomach contents, while large mammals were more likely to be recorded in studies of stomach contents than in studies of scats. Our study confirms the flexible and opportunistic dietary behaviour of foxes at the global scale. This behavioural trait allows them to thrive in a range of climatic conditions, and in areas with different degrees of human‐induced habitat change. This knowledge can help us to place the results of local‐scale fox diet studies into a broader context and to predict how foxes will respond to future environmental changes.

Signaling or Not-Signaling: Variation in Vulnerability and Defense Tactics of Armored Ground Crickets (Acanthoplus Speiseri: Orthoptera, Tettigoniidae, Hetrodinae)

Publisher: Springer Science and Business Media LLC

Date: 26-04-2013

DOI: 10.1007/S10905-012-9329-5

Isolation of Cryptococcus neoformans var. grubii (serotype A) and C. magnus from the nasal lining of free‐ranging quokkas (Setonix brachyurus

Publisher: Wiley

Date: 16-09-2020

DOI: 10.1111/AVJ.13019

Abstract: Cryptococcus species are environmental yeasts, with a worldwide distribution and remarkable environmental adaptation. Although many species do not cause disease, C. neoformans and C. gattii are causative agents of cryptococcosis, a life threatening infection and a significant public health problem worldwide. Infection especially affects immunocompromised animals and humans. In wildlife, cryptococcosis appears to be more prevalent in captive populations. The objective of this study was to assess whether apparently healthy quokkas ( Setonix brachyurus ) harbor Cryptococcus spp. Using cultural and molecular methods, we studied yeasts isolated from nasal swabs collected from 130 free‐ranging quokkas on Rottnest Island (RI, n = 97) and the mainland (n = 33) of Western Australia. Unspeciated Cryptococcus spp. (from four quokkas), C. neoformans var. grubii (serotype A) (two quokkas) and C. magnus (one quokka) were isolated from the nasal lining of apparently healthy quokkas from RI. Cryptococcus neoformans var. grubii was isolated from animals captured in a human‐populated area on RI. There was no significant effect of the presence of Cryptococcus on the results of haematology, blood chemistry, peripheral blood cell morphology or clinical examination. To the best of our knowledge, this is the first documented isolation of C. neoformans var. grubii (serotype A) and C. magnus in a free‐ranging macropod in Western Australia. The public health implications of this finding should be further explored.

Gastrointestinal and renal responses to variable water intake in whitebellied sunbirds and New Holland honeyeaters

Publisher: The Company of Biologists

Date: 2013

DOI: 10.1242/JEB.075176

Abstract: Nectarivores face a constant challenge in terms of water balance, experiencing water loading or dehydration when switching between food plants or between feeding and fasting. To understand how whitebellied sunbirds and New Holland honeyeaters meet the challenges of varying preformed water load, we used the elimination of Intramuscular-injected [14C]-L-glucose and 3H2O to quantify intestinal and renal water handling on diets varying in sugar concentration. Both sunbirds and honeyeaters showed significant modulation of intestinal water absorption, allowing excess water to be shunted through the intestine on dilute diets. Despite reducing their fractional water absorption, both species showed linear increases in water flux and fractional body water turnover as water intake increased (both afternoon and morning), suggesting that the modulation of fractional water absorption was not sufficient to completely offset dietary water loads. In both species, glomerular filtration rate (GFR) was independent of water gain (but was higher for the afternoon), as was renal fractional water reabsorption (measured in the afternoon). During the natural overnight fast, both sunbirds and honeyeaters arrested whole kidney function. Evaporative water loss in sunbirds was variable but correlated with water gain. Both sunbirds and honeyeaters appear to modulate intestinal water absorption as an important component of water regulation to help deal with massive preformed water loads. Shutting down GFR during the overnight fast is another way of saving energy for osmoregulatory function. Birds maintain osmotic balance on diets varying markedly in preformed water load by varying both intestinal water absorption and excretion through the intestine and kidneys.

Set free: an evaluation of two break-away mechanisms for tracking collars

Publisher: CSIRO Publishing

Date: 2022

DOI: 10.1071/WR21176

Melatonin secretion in the Mashona mole-rat, Cryptomys darlingi—influence of light on rhythmicity

Publisher: Elsevier BV

Date: 17-01-2005

DOI: 10.1016/J.PHYSBEH.2004.09.011

Abstract: The hormone melatonin is synthesised and secreted from the pineal gland in darkness and triggers the daily and seasonal timing of various physiological and behavioural processes. The Mashona mole-rat, Cryptomys darlingi, lives in subterranean burrows that are completely sealed and is therefore rarely, if ever, exposed to light under natural conditions. Hence, this species is of particular interest for studies on rhythms of melatonin secretion. We investigated how plasma melatonin concentrations of the Mashona mole-rat responded to exposure to a long-term standard photoperiod of 12 h light, 12 h dark (12:12 LD), constant light (LL) and constant dark (DD). In addition, we examined whether plasma melatonin concentration was coupled to locomotor activity. Mashona mole-rats displayed rhythms of plasma melatonin concentration that appeared entrained to the standard LD photoperiod, suggesting that the mole-rat is capable of perceiving and entraining to this photic zeitgeber. Furthermore, under chronic constant lighting conditions (DD, LL), circadian rhythms in plasma melatonin concentration were observed, suggesting the possible existence of an endogenous rhythm. Light suppressed melatonin secretion, but constant light did not abolish the rhythm of plasma melatonin concentration. Between active and non-active animals, no difference in plasma melatonin concentration was found for any of the sequential photoperiods (LD1 DD, LD2, LL), tentatively suggesting that the rhythm of melatonin secretion is uncoupled from that of locomotor activity.

Spatial analysis of limiting resources on an island: Diet and shelter use reveal sites of conservation importance for the Rottnest Island quokka

Publisher: CSIRO Publishing

Date: 2014

DOI: 10.1071/WR14083

Abstract: Context For conservation of any species, we need baseline data that will guide conservation planning strategies. Identifying plant resources used by animal species for food and shelter is the first important step towards fauna conservation. The second step is to determine the extent and distribution of these resources and thus identify prime habitat or habitat that could be improved through suitable management actions. This information provides the necessary spatial targeting required to make the most of few resources and a shortage of time. Aims Applying this model approach, we identified plant species used as food or shelter resources by the conservationally significant quokka (Setonix brachyurus) across Rottnest Island, Western Australia in the aftermath of the hottest and driest summer on record. Methods Dietary analysis was carried out using microhistological examination of plant cuticle remains from faecal s les for 67 locations across the island. Plants acting as diurnal rest shelters (n = 73 sites) were identified through observation of in iduals flushed during surveys. Identifying key resources requires both a comprehensive analysis of the current use, as well as knowledge of availability of resources to determine selectivity. We therefore compared food plants or rest sites with a comprehensive survey of floristic ersity and abundance for 210 stratified-randomly located sites across the island. Key results We identified eight plant species that quokkas fed on preferentially and identified four plant species that were the principal shelter sites. We then used hyperspectral remote sensing data to map the distribution of these plant species to quantify their distribution and identify key habitat areas. Conclusions Understanding resource limitation over the most physiologically challenging time of the year provides important information for quokka conservation. Quokkas prefer Malvaceae species as food plants, and use dense, abundant shrubs for shelter. Implications Quokkas appear to have shifted their use of food plants since a previous study (50 years ago), likely reflecting modification of island vegetation due to anthropogenic influences, fire and herbivory over time. In the face of changing climate, this information will serve as an important guide towards conservation management actions on the island (e.g. future planning of revegetation and habitat protection/enhancement).

Ecology of the western bearded dragon (Pogona minor) in unmined forest and forest restored after bauxite mining in south-west Western Australia

Publisher: CSIRO Publishing

Date: 2007

DOI: 10.1071/ZO07002

Abstract: Forest areas restored after mining typically take decades, or longer, before they resemble the original vegetation community. Understanding how fauna succession varies with plant succession requires detailed knowledge of an animal’s ecology. Knowledge of an animal’s ecology can also be used to predict faunal responses to management manipulations and enable techniques to be developed that accelerate the return of fauna to restored sites. We radio-tracked western bearded dragons (Pogona minor) in a mix of unmined forest sites and sites restored after bauxite mining, in the jarrah forest of south-west Western Australia, to determine critical resources and important microhabitats for dragons. Dragons were generalists – utilising a range of microhabitats – and adaptable, adjusting their microhabitat use depending on availability. In iduals also differed significantly in their microhabitat use and did not appear to have a defined home range. We concluded that the species would rapidly recolonise restored sites and that no modifications to current restoration practices were required to accelerate their return. Prescribed burning of restored areas could negatively affect this species but the effect would be short-term ( years). The approach used in this study could be used to develop management prescriptions that accelerate the return of late-successional species to restored sites.

An outback oasis: the ecological importance of bilby burrows

Publisher: Wiley

Date: 22-03-2019

DOI: 10.1111/JZO.12663

Scratching beneath the surface: Bandicoot bioturbation contributes to ecosystem processes

Publisher: Wiley

Date: 29-08-2017

DOI: 10.1111/AEC.12428

Review of the methods used for calculating physiological cross‐sectional area (PCSA) for ecological questions

Publisher: Wiley

Date: 06-05-2020

DOI: 10.1002/JMOR.21139

Does the environmental background (intensive v. outdoor systems) influence the behaviour of piglets at weaning?

Publisher: Elsevier BV

Date: 2015

DOI: 10.1017/S1751731115000531

Murdoch University

Location: Australia

View Organisation

University Of Western Australia

Location: Australia

View Organisation

University Of Western Australia

Location: No location found

View Organisation

Linkage Projects - Grant ID: LP160100441

Start Date: 10-2016

End Date: 2022

Amount: $200,000.00

Funder: Australian Research Council

Discovery Projects - Grant ID: DP0665730

Start Date: 2006

End Date: 12-2008

Amount: $290,000.00

Funder: Australian Research Council

Linkage Projects - Grant ID: LP0668195

Start Date: 2006

End Date: 12-2009

Amount: $607,000.00

Funder: Australian Research Council