| Survey/Project Number: | 881 Total No. of Sites: 71 |
| Survey/Project Name: | Managing southern hairy-nosed wombats |
| Abstract: | The southern hairy-nosed wombat (SHNW) is a large, burrowing marsupial that lives predominantly in South Australia on agricultural properties. Their extensive digging behaviour often brings them into conflict with farmers, and the management (especially culling) is a very contentious and emotional issue for all stakeholders involved. This project is part of a larger body of research aimed at promoting co-existence between SHNWs and farmers by developing integrated and sustainable management options for wombats on agricultural properties. This current project examined (i) detectability of SHNW burrows using Google Earth (ii) estimation of number of wombats per burrow and (iii) effectiveness of non-lethal interventions. |
| Start Date: | 08/05/2011 End Date: 01/01/2020 |
| Survey Type: | Fauna only |
| Study Area Description: | There are > 45 different sites over the Far West of SA (included Eyre Peninsula and Gawler Ranges). I have over 1000 SHNW burrows recorded. |
| Objectives | |||
| Vegetation: | *** No vegetation survey objectives recorded | ||
| Fauna: | Refer to Abstract. | ||
| Methodology | |||
| Vegetation: | *** No vegetation methodology recorded | ||
| Fauna: | (i) Detectability of SHNW burrows: At 45 sites across the Far West of SA (including Eyre Peninsula and Gawler Ranges) the location of individual burrows were recorded using a GPS, and data collected on the number of burrow entrances per warren, soil type and proportion of inactive and active burrows. Then Google earth imagery was examined to determine whether warren and/or burrow entrances were visible and the percentage of burrow entrances that could be detected. (ii) Estimation of number of wombats per burrow: External remote sensor cameras were set up surrounding SHNW warrens in different soil and habitat types. Cameras were left for at least 1 week to ensure all individuals using the warren are recorded. Images were downloaded and where possible individual wombats identified using distinguishing features such as nose-pattern, visible scars, size etc. (iii) Non-lethal interventions: (a)one-way gates - SHNW warrens were fenced off with specifically designed one-way gates included in the fencing. (b)scent deterrents - Burrows were collapsed over 3 days (to allow wombats to leave) and various scents applied (e.g. dingo urine). For both trials, remote sensor cameras monitored wombat activity post intervention. | ||
| Data Distribution Rules: | Sensitive Dataset: Written permission required from Information Authority |
| Project Basis: | Unknown : |
| Information Authority: |
Adelaide Zoo - Science and Field Programs
Department for Environment and Heritage (BDBSA:S&C Div) - BCP Abundant species |