Lake Vermont Northern Extension€¦ · · 2014-12-03Lake Vermont Northern Extension Flora and...

Lake Vermont Northern Extension

Flora and Fauna Report

Prepared for:

Bowen Basin Coal Pty Ltd

June 2014

Flora and Fauna Report i June 2014

Document History and Status

Issue Rev. Issued To Qty Date Reviewed Approved

1 0 Bowen Basin Coal 1 19/11/13 GB GB



Project Manager: Gareth Bramston

Name of Client : Bowen Basin Coal Pty Ltd

Name of Project: Lake Vermont Northern Extension Project

Title of Document: Flora and Fauna Report

Document Version: Final

This controlled document is the property of AustralAsian Resource Consultants Pty Ltd and all rights are reserved

in respect of it. This document may not be reproduced or disclosed in any manner whatsoever, in whole or in

part, without the prior written consent of AustralAsian Resource Consultants Pty Ltd. AustralAsian Resource

Consultants Pty Ltd expressly disclaims any responsibility for or liability arising from the use of this document by

any third party.

Opinions and judgments expressed herein, which are based on our understanding and interpretation of current

regulatory standards, should not be construed as legal opinions. Information obtained from interviews and

contained in the documentation has been assumed to be correct and complete. AustralAsian Resource

Consultants Pty Ltd does not accept any liability for misrepresentation of information or for items not visible,

accessible, nor able to be inspected at the sites at the time of the site visits.

Flora and Fauna Report ii June 2014

EXECUTIVE SUMMARY ........................................................................................... IX

1.0 INTRODUCTION ............................................................................................. 1

1.1 SCOPE OF STUDY ............................................................................................................... 1

2.0 PROJECT DESCRIPTION .............................................................................. 2

2.1 PROJECT GEOGRAPHIC AND BIOREGIONAL LOCATION ............................................. 2

2.2 PROJECT DESIGN ............................................................................................................... 2

2.3 LOCAL WATERWAYS AND TOPOGRAPHY ...................................................................... 4

2.4 GEOLOGY AND SOILS ........................................................................................................ 5

2.5 REGIONAL CLIMATE ........................................................................................................... 6

2.6 CURRENT LAND AND WATER USE ................................................................................... 6

3.0 RELEVANT LEGISLATION ............................................................................ 7

3.1 ENVIRONMENT PROTECTION AND BIODIVERSITY CONSERVATION ACT 1999 ......... 7

3.2 NATURE CONSERVATION ACT 1992 ................................................................................. 7

3.3 VEGETATION MANAGEMENT ACT 1999 ........................................................................... 8

3.4 QUEENSLAND DEPARTMENT OF ENVIRONMENT AND HERITAGE PROTECTION BIODIVERSITY STATUS ................................................................................................................... 8

3.5 BIODIVERSITY PLANNING ASSESSMENTS...................................................................... 9

3.6 LAND PROTECTION (PEST AND STOCK ROUTE MANAGEMENT) ACT 2002 ............... 9

4.0 DATABASE SEARCH AND LITERATURE REVIEW ................................... 10

4.1 FLORA ................................................................................................................................. 10

4.1.1 Threatened Ecological Communities ............................................................................... 10

4.1.2 Regional Ecosystems ...................................................................................................... 11

4.1.3 Threatened Flora Species ............................................................................................... 13

4.2 FAUNA ................................................................................................................................. 15

4.2.1 Threatened Fauna Species ............................................................................................. 15

4.2.2 Migratory Fauna Species ................................................................................................. 17

4.3 ENVIRONMENTALLY SENSITIVE AREAS ........................................................................ 18

4.4 WETLAND MAPPING ......................................................................................................... 20

4.5 BRIGALOW BELT BPA ...................................................................................................... 20

5.0 SURVEY METHODOLOGY ........................................................................... 21

5.1 INITIAL SITE SCOPING ...................................................................................................... 21

5.2 FLORA ................................................................................................................................. 21

5.2.1 Vegetation Classification and Regional Ecosystem Mapping ......................................... 21

5.2.1.1 Flora and Regional Ecosystem Identification ....................................................................... 24

5.2.1.2 Surveys for Species of Conservation Significance ............................................................... 24

TABLE OF CONTENTS

Flora and Fauna Report iii June 2014

5.3 FAUNA ................................................................................................................................. 24

5.3.1 Detection Methods ........................................................................................................... 24

5.3.2 Fauna Survey Sites ......................................................................................................... 27

5.3.2.1 FS1 ...................................................................................................................................... 29

5.3.2.2 FS2 ...................................................................................................................................... 29

5.3.2.3 FS3 ...................................................................................................................................... 30

5.3.2.4 FS4 ...................................................................................................................................... 31

5.3.2.5 FS5 ...................................................................................................................................... 32

5.3.2.6 FS6 ...................................................................................................................................... 33

5.3.2.7 FS7 ...................................................................................................................................... 34

5.3.2.8 FS8 ...................................................................................................................................... 35

6.0 RESULTS ...................................................................................................... 37

6.1 SURVEY TIMING ................................................................................................................. 37

6.2 WEATHER CONDITIONS ................................................................................................... 37

6.3 FLORA RESULTS ............................................................................................................... 37

6.3.1 Community 1 – Poplar Box Open Woodland on alluvial plains ....................................... 39

6.3.1.1 Community Description ........................................................................................................ 39

6.3.1.2 Conservation Value .............................................................................................................. 40

6.3.1.3 Vegetation Condition and Habitat Value............................................................................... 40

6.3.2 community 2 – poplar box open woodland on sand plains .............................................. 40



6.3.3 Community 3 – River Red Gum Riparian Woodland ....................................................... 42




6.3.4 Community 4 – Poplar Gum Open Woodland ................................................................. 43




6.3.5 Community 5 – Mixed Bloodwood Open Woodland ........................................................ 46




6.3.7 Community 6 – Freshwater Wetlands ............................................................................. 48




6.3.8 Community 7 – regrowth Vegetation ............................................................................... 49



Flora and Fauna Report iv June 2014


6.3.10 Community 8 – Non-remnant Grassland ......................................................................... 52




6.3.11 Flora Species and Vegetation Communities of Conservation Significance .................... 53

6.3.11.1 Threatened Species ............................................................................................................. 53

6.3.11.2 Summary of Threatened Communities ................................................................................. 54

6.3.12 Weeds of Management Concern ..................................................................................... 54

6.4 FAUNA RESULTS ............................................................................................................... 54

6.4.1 Amphibians ...................................................................................................................... 54

6.4.1.1 Amphibian Species of Conservation Significance ................................................................ 55

6.4.2 Birds ................................................................................................................................. 55

6.4.2.1 Bird Species of Conservation Significance ........................................................................... 56

6.4.3 Reptiles ............................................................................................................................ 61

6.4.3.1 Reptile Species of Conservation Significance ...................................................................... 62

6.4.4 Mammals ......................................................................................................................... 63

6.4.4.1 Mammal Species of Conservation Significance ................................................................... 64

6.4.5 Pest Species .................................................................................................................... 64

6.4.6 Regional Fauna Species of Conservation Significance ................................................... 64

7.0 ENVIRONMENTAL VALUES, POTENTIAL IMPACTS AND RECOMMENDED MITIGATION AND MANAGEMENT STRATEGIES ................... 77

7.1 SUMMARY OF ENVIRONMENTAL VALUES .................................................................... 77

7.2 POTENTIAL IMPACTS ........................................................................................................ 77

7.3 MITIGATION AND MANAGEMENT STRATEGIES ............................................................ 78

7.3.1 Flora ................................................................................................................................. 78

7.3.2 Fauna ............................................................................................................................... 79

8.0 REFERENCES .............................................................................................. 80

Flora and Fauna Report v June 2014

Figure 1 Project Site Layout .......................................................................................................... 3

Figure 2 Local Waterways on the Project Site .............................................................................. 5

Figure 3 Regional Rainfall and Temperature Data ....................................................................... 6

Figure 4 EHP Regional Ecosystem Mapping for the Project Site ...............................................12

Figure 5 ESA Mapping ................................................................................................................19

Figure 6 Flora Survey Sites.........................................................................................................23

Figure 7 Fauna Survey Sites.......................................................................................................28

Figure 8 Vegetation Communities of the Project Site .................................................................38

Table 1 Threatened Ecological Communities within the Project Region ...................................11

Table 2 Regional Ecosystems Mapped within the Project Site .................................................11

Table 3 Threatened Flora Species within the Project Region ...................................................13

Table 4 Threatened Fauna Species within the Project Region .................................................15

Table 5 Migratory and Marine Species within the Project Region .............................................17

Table 6 Community 1 Profile......................................................................................................39








Table 14 Migratory and Marine Species Observed on the Project Site .......................................60

Table 15 Assessment of Likelihood of Occurrence and Potential Impacts on Threatened Fauna Species identified from Desktop Searches ........................................................66

LIST OF FIGURES

LIST OF TABLES

Flora and Fauna Report vi June 2014

Photo Plate 1 Fauna Site 1 ..................................................................................................................29








Photo Plate 9 Community 1 – Poplar Box Woodland on Alluvial Plains .............................................40

Photo Plate 10 Community 2 – Poplar Box Woodland on Sand Plains ................................................41

Photo Plate 11 Community 3 – River Red Gum Riparian Woodland ....................................................43

Photo Plate 12 Community 4 – Poplar Gum Woodland ........................................................................44

Photo Plate 13 Community 5 – Mixed Bloodwood Woodland ...............................................................47

Photo Plate 14 Community 6 – Freshwater Wetlands...........................................................................49

Photo Plate 15 Community 7 – Regrowth Vegetation ...........................................................................50

Photo Plate 16 Community 8 – Derived Grassland ...............................................................................53

Photo Plate 17 Scarlet Sided Pobblebonk (Limnodynastes terreginae) ...............................................55

Photo Plate 18 Spotted Harrier (Circus assimilis) .................................................................................56

Photo Plate 19 Southern Squatter Pigeon (Geophaps scripta scripta) .................................................57

Photo Plate 20 Black-necked Storks (Ephippiorhynchus asiaticus) ......................................................60

Photo Plate 21 Tree Dtella (Gehyra variegata) .....................................................................................62

Appendix A Database Searches ....................................................................................................... A

Appendix B Flora Species List .......................................................................................................... B

Appendix C Assessment of Likelihood of Occurrence of Threatened Flora Species on the Project Site ..................................................................................................................... C

Appendix D Fauna Species List ........................................................................................................ D

Appendix E Microbat Analysis Report ............................................................................................... E

LIST OF PHOTO PLATES

LIST OF APPENDICES

Flora and Fauna Report vii June 2014

oC - Degrees Celsius

% - Percent

AARC - AustralAsian Resource Consultants Pty Ltd

BOM - Bureau of Meteorology

Bowen Basin Coal - Bowen Basin Coal Pty Ltd

BPA - Biodiversity Planning Assessment

cm - Centimetre

DSEWPAC - Department of Sustainability, Environment, Water, Population and

Communities

EHP - Queensland Department of Environment and Heritage Protection

EP Act - Environmental Protection Act 1994

EPBC Act - Environment Protection and Biodiversity Conservation Act 1999 (Cth)

ERE - Endangered Regional Ecosystem

ESA - Environmentally Sensitive Area

FS - Fauna site

GIS - Geographical Information System

GPS - Global Positioning System

ha - Hectare(s)

km - Kilometre(s)

LP Act - Land Protection (Pest and Stock Route Management) Act 2002

m - metre(s)

ML - Mining Lease

mm - millimetre(s)

MNES - Matters of National Environmental Significance

NC Act - Nature Conservation Act 1992

LIST OF ABBREVIATIONS

Flora and Fauna Report viii June 2014

NCWR - Nature Conservation (Wildlife) Regulation 2006

RAD - Recovery Actions Database

RE - Regional Ecosystem

REDD - Regional Ecosystem Description Database

VM Act - Vegetation Management Act 1999

VMR - Vegetation Management Regulation 2000

WONS - Weeds of National Significance

Flora and Fauna Report ix June 2014

EXECUTIVE SUMMARY

AustralAsian Resource Consultants Proprietary Limited was commissioned by Bowen Basin Coal

Proprietary Limited to conduct a Flora and Fauna Assessment for the proposed Lake Vermont

Northern Mining Lease Project. To assess the environmental values of flora and fauna communities

on the Project site, AustralAsian Resource Consultants undertook the following scope of works:

Production of a literature and database review in order to identify species, regional

ecosystems and ecological communities of conservation significance within the region in

which the Project is located;

Compilation of an inventory of the ecological communities, regional ecosystems, vertebrate

fauna and flora inhabiting the Project site, with particular focus on species and communities of

conservation significance; and

Preparation of a report describing significant ecological factors, potential impacts and outlining

possible management strategies, in order to reduce any foreseeable impacts associated with

the proposed activities.

The Project is located approximately 15 kilometres north of Dysart and 165 kilometres south-west of

Mackay in Central Queensland. The Project is an augmentation of the current Lake Vermont Coal

Mine and will involve open-cut coal mining in parts of the Project site. The Project site has been

extensively cleared for pasture and is currently used for cattle grazing.

Due to the highly degraded state of the Project site, the Project site contains little of environmental

value or significance.

Database searches found that several threatened ecological communities and species occur in the

region in which the Project is located. One Environmentally Sensitive Area (an Endangered Regional

Ecosystem) is mapped on the Project site (0.9 hectares). This area, however, was examined during

the site investigation associated with this report, which confirmed the classification of the area to be

incorrect and that no Category B Environmentally Sensitive Areas exist within the Project site. A

bioregional corridor was also identified intersecting a small portion of the site.

A site survey was conducted from the 13th to the 21

st May 2013. Nine flora transects and eight fauna

sites were surveyed to assess the biodiversity of the Project site. Fauna survey techniques utilised

included Elliot trapping, pitfall trapping, funnel traps, cage traps, bat call recording, habitat searching,

spotlighting and motion detector cameras.

A total of 232 species of plants were recorded during the survey period. Eight different vegetation

communities were identified on the Project site:

Community 1 – Poplar Box Open Woodland on Alluvial Plains (Regional Ecosystem 11.3.2);

Community 2 – Poplar Box Open Woodland on Sand Plains (Regional Ecosystem 11.5.3);

Community 3 – River Red Gum Riparian Woodland (Regional Ecosystem 11.3.25);

Community 4 – Poplar Gum Open Woodland (Regional Ecosystem 11.3.35);

Community 5 – Mixed Bloodwood Open Woodland (Regional Ecosystem 11.3.7);

Flora and Fauna Report x June 2014

Community 6 – Freshwater Wetlands (Regional Ecosystem 11.3.27);

Community 7 – Regrowth Vegetation; and

Community 8 – Derived Grasslands (non-remnant).

The extent of most of these vegetation communities is relatively small, as the majority of the Project

site has been cleared.

No threatened flora species were identified on the Project site during the survey. Three weed species

listed as Class 2 declared weeds under the Land Protection (Pest and Stock Route Management) Act

2002 were noted to occur on site in low densities. Two of these species are also Weeds of National

Significance.

A total of 163 fauna species were identified on the Project site, consisting of six amphibians, 124 birds,

12 reptiles and 20 mammals. Four threatened bird species and four migratory bird species were

observed on the Project site. No threatened mammals, reptiles or amphibians were located. One pest

amphibian species and four mammalian pests were encountered on the Project site. Four of these

species are Class 2 declared pests under the Land Protection (Pest and Stock Route Management)

Act 2002.

As the Project site has been almost completely cleared of native vegetation, the potential impacts on

native flora and fauna are minimal, however the following potential impacts were identified for the

Project:

Clearing of small areas of remnant vegetation;

Reduction in the size and connectivity of habitat corridors along Phillips Creek;

Reduction of fauna habitat;

Increased erosion;

Increased abundance of weed and pest species; and

Increased risk of fauna injuries and mortality.

Mitigation and management strategies recommended to address these potential impacts include:

Restricting the clearing footprint to the approved disturbance areas ;

Siting any new infrastructure, roads and tracks in non-remnant areas where possible;

Implementation of an Erosion and Sediment Control Plan;

Implementation of Water Management Plans;

Revegetation of the creek diversion with native flora species representative of the existing

riparian community;

Progressive rehabilitation of the disturbance area;

Flora and Fauna Report xi June 2014

Development and implementation of a Rehabilitation Management and Monitoring Plan; and

Training of staff and contractors.

Flora and Fauna Report 1 June 2014

1.0 INTRODUCTION

AustralAsian Resource Consultants Proprietary Limited (AARC) was commissioned by Bowen Basin

Coal Proprietary Limited (Bowen Basin Coal) to conduct a Flora and Fauna Assessment for the

proposed Lake Vermont Northern Mining Lease (ML) Project (the Project).

1.1 SCOPE OF STUDY

To assess the environmental values of flora and fauna communities on the Project site, AARC

ecologists undertook the following scope of works:

Literature and database review in order to identify species of conservation significance known

to occur within the region. This review enabled such species to be targeted during the field

survey components of the study;

Field surveys employing standard methodologies from the guidelines set out by the

Queensland Government to develop an inventory of terrestrial flora and fauna species

inhabiting the Project site, with emphasis on the presence of conservation significant species;

and

The preparation of a report to Bowen Basin Coal describing the significant ecological features

identified and outlining possible management strategies to reduce any foreseeable impacts

associated with the proposed activities.


2.0 PROJECT DESCRIPTION

2.1 PROJECT GEOGRAPHIC AND BIOREGIONAL LOCATION

The Project is located approximately 15 kilometres (km) north of Dysart and 165 km south-west of

Mackay in Central Queensland. The Project site is located adjacent to the northern boundary of the

existing Lake Vermont Coal Mine (refer to Figure 1).

The Project is located in the Brigalow Belt Bioregion. The Brigalow Belt bioregion covers over 36 400

000 hectares (ha) of land between Townsville and northern New South Wales. Much of this area has

been cleared for agricultural and pastoral land. The remaining vegetation is dominated by the tree

species Brigalow (Acacia harpophylla), as well as Eucalypt communities. Human activities have

fragmented the vegetation in the bioregion and introduced a range of weed and pest species. Despite

this, the bioregion continues to support a diverse range of flora and fauna, including many threatened

species (Threatened Species Network, 2008).

2.2 PROJECT DESIGN

The Project is an augmentation of the existing Lake Vermont Coal Mine which currently bases its

operations on ML 70331, located directly south of the Project site. The extension will involve open-cut

mining of coal resources identified in parts of the Project site. Diversion of part of Phillips Creek will be

required to access the target resource. The proposed Project layout is shown in Figure 1.


Figure 1 Project Site Layout


2.3 LOCAL WATERWAYS AND TOPOGRAPHY

The main watercourse on the Project area is Phillips Creek. Phillips Creek is an ephemeral creek that

runs through the centre of the Project area in an easterly direction. Phillips Creek runs into the Isaac

River, which runs south-east into the Fitzroy River. The Fitzroy flows east into the Coral Sea at

Rockhampton. Watercourses on and around the Project site are shown in Figure 2.

Permanent water sources include a dam in the centre of the Project site, and a smaller dam in the

west of the Project, both of which were constructed to supply water for cattle. Lake Vermont is also

located on the eastern boundary of the Project site.

The topography of the Project site is dominated by undulating downs country.


Figure 2 Local Waterways on the Project Site

2.4 GEOLOGY AND SOILS

The stratigraphic units present at the Lake Vermont Coal Mine are summarised as:

Cenozoic - Mainly unconsolidated sand and clay alluvial deposits;

Triassic - Sagittarius Sandstone, mainly greenish-grey siltstones and sandstones; and


Late Permian – Blackwater Group coal measures.

Predominant surface geology of the Project site is described as locally red-brown mottled, poorly

consolidated sand, silt, clay, minor gravel; high-level alluvial deposits, generally dissected, and related

to present stream valleys.

2.5 REGIONAL CLIMATE

Regional climate data has been obtained from the Australian Bureau of Meteorology (BOM). The data

was sourced from the Clermont Post Office weather station, which has been recording data since

1870. The weather data for the region in which the Project is located is presented in Figure 3. Figure 3

shows that rainfall in the region is seasonal, with most rain falling in the period between November

and March. The average annual rainfall for the region is 667.3 millimetres (mm). Average annual

temperatures range from a minimum of 15°C to a maximum of 29.7°C.

Figure 3 Regional Rainfall and Temperature Data

2.6 CURRENT LAND AND WATER USE

The current land use at the Project location is cattle grazing. Several dams, cattle yards and windmills

are located on the Project site. The areas adjacent to the Project site are subject to extensive coal

mining and exploration activities. Water use on and downstream of the site primarily consists of stock

watering.

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Jan Feb Mar Apr May Jun Jul Aug Sep Oct Nov Dec

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Rainfall Mean max temperature Mean min temperature


3.0 RELEVANT LEGISLATION

Legislation relevant to the assessment of flora, fauna and biodiversity on the Project site is discussed

below.

3.1 ENVIRONMENT PROTECTION AND BIODIVERSITY CONSERVATION ACT 1999

The Environment Protection and Biodiversity Conservation Act 1999 (EPBC Act) requires that actions

that have, will have, or are likely to have a significant impact on a Matter of National Environmental

Significance (MNES) obtain approval from the Federal Environment Minister. The MNES are:

World Heritage properties;

Ramsar wetlands of international importance;

Listed threatened species and communities;

Migratory species protected under international agreements;

National Heritage Places;

Nuclear actions;

Commonwealth marine areas; and

Water resources (in relation to coal seam gas and large coal mine development).

If the Project is likely to impact upon any MNES, it should be referred to the Commonwealth

Department of Sustainability, Environment, Water, Population and Communities (DSEWPAC) to

determine if Federal approval of the Project is required.

3.2 NATURE CONSERVATION ACT 1992

The Nature Conservation Act 1992 (NC Act) applies to protected wildlife. Protected wildlife is

categorised as:

Extinct in the wild;

Endangered;

Vulnerable;

Near Threatened; or

Least Concern.

The associated Nature Conservation (Wildlife) Regulation 2006 (NCWR) lists the species that fall into

each of these categories.

The NC Act defines ‘threatening processes’ as any process that is capable of:


a) Threatening the survival of any protected area, area of major interest, protected wildlife,

community of native wildlife or native wildlife habitat; or

b) Affecting the capacity of any protected area, area of major interest, protected wildlife,

community of native wildlife or native wildlife habitat to sustain natural processes.

The NC Act is relevant to the Project if any impacts on protected flora and/or fauna species are

predicted as a result of the Project.

3.3 VEGETATION MANAGEMENT ACT 1999

The Vegetation Management Act 1999 (VM Act) is the key component for regulation of Queensland’s

native vegetation management system. The associated Vegetation Management Regulation 2000

(VMR) prescribes the status of each Regional Ecosystem (RE) in Queensland. REs are classified

under the VMR as Endangered, Of Concern or Least Concern, based on the areal extent of the RE.

The RE mapping and classifications provided by the VM Act and VMR are of relevance to the Project,

as they provide useful information on the vegetation on the Project site, including its conservation

significance.

Each RE has two conservation statuses assigned to it: a VM Act status and a Department of

Environment and Heritage Protection (EHP) Biodiversity Status. The VM Act status is the basis for

determining Matters of State Environmental Significance when assessing vegetation offset

requirements. Biodiversity Status is discussed in more detail in the following section.

An integral component of vegetation categorisation is determining whether vegetation is Remnant or

Regrowth. The VM Act defines Remnant vegetation as vegetation:

Covering more than 50% of the undisturbed predominant canopy;

Averaging more than 70% of the vegetation’s undisturbed height; and

Composed of species characteristic of the vegetation’s undisturbed predominant canopy.

The VM Act defines Regrowth vegetation as vegetation that is not Remnant vegetation.

3.4 QUEENSLAND DEPARTMENT OF ENVIRONMENT AND HERITAGE PROTECTION BIODIVERSITY STATUS

The EHP Biodiversity Status is a classification assigned to REs in order to assist with biodiversity

planning in Queensland. The Biodiversity Status is assigned based upon an assessment of the

condition of the vegetation, in addition to the pre-clearing and current extent of an RE. It takes into

account other threatening processes in addition to land clearing, such as:

Reduction in biodiversity;

Weed invasion;

Grazing pressures;

Inappropriate fire management;


Fragmentation; and

Infrastructure development.

3.5 BIODIVERSITY PLANNING ASSESSMENTS

Biodiversity Planning Assessments (BPA) were developed by the Queensland government to assess

and protect biodiversity values in bioregions exposed to intensive planning and development. Panels

of experts were established to assess three categories of biodiversity values in each bioregion:

Landscape, Flora and Fauna. Within each category, species, habitats and significant landscape

features were identified and ranked in order of concern/conservation significance (Low, Medium, High,

Critical; Regional and State).

Geographical Information System (GIS) data output displays spatial information on the significant

features identified during the BPAs.

The Brigalow Belt BPA and GIS data were reviewed to determine if there are any significant ecological

values on the Project site.

3.6 LAND PROTECTION (PEST AND STOCK ROUTE MANAGEMENT) ACT 2002

The objectives of the Land Protection (Pest and Stock Route Management) Act 2002 (LP Act) are to

manage and control pest and weed species declared under the Act and to protect and manage

Queensland’s Stock Route network.

The classes of pest set out in the LP Act are:

Class 1 – pests that are not commonly present in Queensland, and if introduced would cause

an adverse economic, environmental or social impact;

Class 2 – pests that are established in Queensland and have, or could have, a substantial

adverse economic, environmental or social impact; and

Class 3 – pests that are widespread in Queensland and have, or could have, an adverse

economic, environmental or social impact.

The LP Act requires that land managers prevent the spread of declared pests on their land and

manage declared pests effectively.


4.0 DATABASE SEARCH AND LITERATURE REVIEW

Database searches gather information on flora and fauna species identified from previous ecological

surveys, museum and observational records. A review of database records facilitates the formulation

of field survey techniques to target significant flora and fauna species known from the region.

The following database searches were undertaken using a 100 km buffer around a central coordinate:

Protected Matters Search, administered by DSEWPAC. This search was used to ascertain if

any MNES are likely to occur on the Project site; and

EHP’s Wildlife Online database. This search provides a list of all flora and fauna species

recorded in the search area, including any threatened species.

EHP’s RE mapping was reviewed to determine which remnant vegetation communities were mapped

on the Project area. The RE mapping also shows any mapped Essential Habitat for threatened

species. Regrowth mapping was consulted to determine if any High Value Regrowth is likely to exist

on the Project site.

EHP’s Environmentally Sensitive Area (ESA) mapping was consulted to identify any ESAs on the

Project site. ESAs include Endangered REs, national parks, state forests, Ramsar wetlands and other

protected areas.

The Brigalow Belt BPA GIS dataset for the Project site was viewed to identify Regional and/or State

significant biodiversity values for the Project site.

The ‘Back on Track’ Species Prioritisation Framework Recovery Actions Database (RAD) for the

Fitzroy region was consulted to identify the regionally significant fauna and flora species in the Project

region.

Queensland Wetland Mapping Database was searched to determine if there are any wetlands

mapped on the Project site.

Relevant literature and reports from previous ecological surveys conducted in the vicinity of the Project

were also reviewed. The following reports were consulted to gain an understanding of the ecology of

the Project area:

Lake Vermont Western Extension Terrestrial Flora and Fauna Assessment (AARC, 2012);

and

Vermont Coal Project Environmental Impact Statement (Bowen Basin Coal Pty Ltd, 2004).

The database searches and literature review revealed that a number of flora and fauna species of

conservation significance are known from the area surrounding the Project site. Database search

results are included in Appendix A and summarised below.

4.1 FLORA

4.1.1 THREATENED ECOLOGICAL COMMUNITIES

The Protected Matters Search tool identified five Threatened Ecological Communities that could

potentially occur on or within 100 km of the Project site. These communities are listed in Table 1.


Table 1 Threatened Ecological Communities within the Project Region

Community Name EPBC Act Status

Brigalow (Acacia harpophylla dominant and co-dominant) Endangered

Broad Leaf Tea-tree (Melaleuca viridiflora) woodlands in high rainfall

coastal north Queensland Endangered

Natural Grasslands of the Queensland Central Highlands and the

northern Fitzroy Basin Endangered

Semi-evergreen vine thickets of the Brigalow Belt (North and South)

and Nandewar Bioregions Endangered

Weeping Myall Woodlands Endangered

4.1.2 REGIONAL ECOSYSTEMS

The six REs mapped on the Project site are listed in Table 2. The majority of the Project site is

mapped as non-remnant vegetation. One of the mapped REs is classified as Endangered and one is

classified as Of Concern under the VM Act classification. Three of the remaining REs have a

Biodiversity Status of Of Concern. The RE map for the Project site is shown in Figure 4.

Table 2 Regional Ecosystems Mapped within the Project Site

Regional

Ecosystem Description VM Act Status

EHP

Biodiversity

Status

11.3.2 Eucalyptus populnea woodland on alluvial

plains Of Concern Of Concern

11.3.7 Corymbia spp. woodland on alluvial plains.

Sandy soils Least Concern Of Concern

11.3.25

Eucalyptus tereticornis and/or E.

camaldulensis woodland fringing drainage

lines

Least Concern Of Concern

11.3.27 Freshwater wetlands Least Concern Of Concern

11.4.9

Acacia harpophylla shrubby open forest to

woodland with Terminalia oblongata on

Cainozoic clay plains

Endangered Endangered

11.5.3

Eucalyptus populnea and/or E. melanophloia

and/or Corymbia clarksoniana on Cainozoic

sand plains/remnant surfaces

Least Concern No concern at

present


Figure 4 EHP Regional Ecosystem Mapping for the Project Site


4.1.3 THREATENED FLORA SPECIES

Database searches identified 30 species of threatened flora that have been recorded within the region

in which the Project is located. These species are listed in Table 3. Appendix C presents an

assessment of the likelihood of occurrence of these species on the Project site.

Table 3 Threatened Flora Species within the Project Region

Scientific Name Common Name

Conservation Status

EPBC Act NC Act

Acacia arbiana - NL NT

Acacia spania - NL NT

Aristida annua - V V

Bertya pedicellata - NL NT

Cadellia pentastylis Ooline V V

Capparis humistrata - NL E

Cerbera dumicola - NL NT

Cycas megacarpa - E E

Cycas ophiolitica - E E

Daviesia discolor - V V

Desmodium macrocarpum Large-Fruited Tick -

trefoil NL LC

Dichanthium queenslandicum King Blue-grass E V

Dichanthium setosum Bluegrass V LC

Digitaria porrecta Finger Panic Grass NL NT

Eleocharis blakeana - NL LC

Eucalyptus raveretiana Black Ironbox V V

Macropteranthes fitzalanii - NL NT


Scientific Name Common Name

Conservation Status

EPBC Act NC Act

Macropteranthes leiocaulis - NL NT

Omphalea celata - V V

Paspalidium scabrifolium - NL NT

Phaius australis Lesser Swamp-

orchid E E

Phalaenopsis rosenstromii Native Moth Orchid E E

Rhodamnia pauciovulata - NL NT

Samadera bidwillii Quassia V V

Solanum adenophorum - NL E

Solanum elachophyllum - NL E

Streblus pendulinus Siah's Backbone E NL

Taeniophyllum muelleri Minute Orchid NL NL

Trioncinia patens Peak Downs Daisy NL E

Trioncinia retroflexa Belyando Cobblers

Peg NL E

E - Endangered

LC – Least Concern

NL – Not listed

NT – Near threatened

V – Vulnerable


4.2 FAUNA

4.2.1 THREATENED FAUNA SPECIES

Thirty-five threatened fauna species have been identified or potentially occur in the region surrounding

the Project site. These species are listed in Table 4.

No Essential Habitat for threatened fauna is mapped on the Project site.

Table 4 Threatened Fauna Species within the Project Region

Scientific Name Common Name Conservation Status

EPBC Act NC Act

Accipiter

novaehollandiae Grey Goshawk NL NT

Calyptorhynchus lathami Glossy Black-cockatoo NL V

Crocodylus porosus Saltwater Crocodile NL V

Cyclorana verrucosa Rough Collared Frog NL NT

Dasyurus hallucatus Northern Quoll E LC

Delma labialis Striped-tailed Delma NL V

Delma torquata Collared Delma V V

Neochmia ruficauda

ruficauda Star Finch (eastern) E E

Tyto novaehollandiae

kimberli Masked Owl (northern) V V

Erythrotriorchis radiatus Red Goshawk V E

Denisonia maculata Ornamental Snake V V

Egernia rugosa Yakka Skink V V

Furina dunmalli Dunmall’s Snake V V

Lerista allanae Allan's Lerista E E

Geophaps scripta scripta Squatter Pigeon (southern) V V

Hemiaspis damelii Grey Snake NL E

Jalmenus eubulus Pale Imperial Hairstreak NL V

Paradelma orientalis Brigalow Scaly-foot NL V


Scientific Name Common Name Conservation Status

EPBC Act NC Act

Phaethon rubricauda Red-tailed Tropicbird NL V

Phascolarctos cinereus Koala V LC

Poephila cincta cincta Black-throated Finch E E

Rheodytes leukops Fitzroy River Turtle V V

Rostratula australis Australian Painted Snipe E V

Acanthophis antarcticus Common Death Adder NL NT

Chalinolobus picatus Little Pied Bat NL NT

Ephippiorhynchus

asiaticus Black-necked Stork NL NT

Lasiorhinus krefftii Northern Hairy-nosed

Wombat E E

Lophoictinia isura Square-tailed Kite NL NT

Melithreptus gularis Black-chinned Honeyeater NL NT

Neophema pulchella Turquoise Parrot NL NT

Nettapus

coromandelianus Cotton Pygmy-Goose NL NT

Ninox rufa queenslandica Rufous Owl (southern

subspecies) NL V

Nyctophilus

corbeni/timoriensis

South-eastern Long-eared

Bat V V

Tadorna radjah Radjah Shelduck NL NT

Strophurus taenicauda Golden-tailed Gecko NL NT

E - Endangered


NL – Not listed

NT – Near threatened

V – Vulnerable


4.2.2 MIGRATORY FAUNA SPECIES

The Protected Matters Search identified a total of 15 listed migratory and/or marine species that may

inhabit the Project region. A full list of these species is presented in Table 5.

Table 5 Migratory and Marine Species within the Project Region

Scientific Name Common

Name

Migratory Species

Listed Marine Species

Migratory Marine Species

Migratory Terrestrial Species

Migratory Wetlands Species

Anseranas semipalmata

Magpie Goose - - - X

Apus pacificus Fork-tailed Swift X - - X

Ardea alba Great Egret X - X X

Ardea ibis Cattle Egret X - X X

Gallinago hardwickii

Latham’s Snipe - - X X

Haliaeetus leucogaster

White-bellied Sea Eagle - X - X

Hirundapus caudacutus

White-throated Needletail - X - X

Hirundo rustica Barn Swallow - X - X

Merops ornatus Rainbow Bee-eater - X - X

Monarcha melanopsis

Black-faced Monarch - X - X

Monarcha trivirgatus

Spectacled Monarch - X - X

Myiagra cyanoleuca

Satin Flycatcher - X - X

Pandion haliaetus

Osprey - - - X

Rhipidura rufifrons

Rufous Fantail - X - X

Rostratula benghalensis

Painted Snipe - - X X


4.3 ENVIRONMENTALLY SENSITIVE AREAS

EHP’s ESA mapping (refer to Figure 5) shows that there is one Category B ESA within the Project

boundary. This ESA is a very small patch of RE 11.4.9, which is classified as Endangered. This area,

however, was examined during the site investigation associated with this report, which confirmed the

classification of the area to be incorrect and that no Category B ESA areas exist within the Project

area. No Category A or C ESAs are mapped on or around the Project site. No conservation parks,

declared fish habitat areas, wilderness areas, aquatic reserves, heritage or historic areas, national

estates, World Heritage listings, sites listed under international treaties or agreements or biodiversity

and scientific reserves are located within or adjacent to the Project site.


Figure 5 ESA Mapping


4.4 WETLAND MAPPING

The WetlandMaps database showed three areas of palustrine wetland and one lacustrine wetland on

the Project site. Phillips Creek is mapped as a riverine system and a riverine wetland.

Referable wetland mapping shows one Great Barrier Reef Catchment wetland of High Ecological

Significance (SPP 4/11) on the eastern boundary of the Project site. Phillips Creek is mapped as a

wetland of General Ecological Significance.

No wetlands of international importance as nominated under the Ramsar Convention have been

recorded on or near the Project site.

Wetland values are discussed in further detail in the Lake Vermont Northern ML Aquatic Ecology and

Stream Morphology Assessment (AARC, 2013).

4.5 BRIGALOW BELT BPA

Review of the Brigalow Belt BPA GIS dataset revealed that several areas of the Project site are

mapped as having significant biodiversity values. The vegetation on the banks of Phillips Creek is

accorded both State and Regional significance. Phillips Creek forms part of a bioregional corridor and

contains REs with a Biodiversity Status of Of Concern. There is also a small patch of an Endangered

RE mapped on the north of Phillips Creek, which is classed as being of State significance. This area,

however, was examined during the site investigation associated with this report, which confirmed the

classification of the area to be incorrect and that no Category B ESA areas exist within the Project site.

The remnant vegetation on the east of the Project site is classed as regionally significant. It contains

an RE that has only 10 – 30% of its original extent in the Isaac-Comet Downs subregion and a small

portion of an Of Concern RE. It is also part of a larger patch of vegetation and forms part of a

bioregional corridor.


5.0 SURVEY METHODOLOGY

5.1 INITIAL SITE SCOPING

Site scoping was conducted through the examination of aerial photography, satellite imagery and

existing EHP RE Mapping. This enabled the ecologists to gain an overall perspective of the vegetation

distribution and landscape features on the Project site.

Vehicle-based reconnaissance was carried out to assist in locating suitable survey sites, maximising

the representative vegetation and fauna habitat survey coverage. This also aided in targeting habitats

potentially occupied by species of conservation significance.

5.2 FLORA

The flora survey methodology for the Project was conducted in accordance with the Methodology for

Survey and Mapping of Regional Ecosystems and Vegetation Communities in Queensland (Neldner et

al., 2012).

5.2.1 VEGETATION CLASSIFICATION AND REGIONAL ECOSYSTEM MAPPING

The field surveys involved a baseline study of the Project using standard floristic survey methods

(Neldner et al., 2012). Two vegetation survey techniques (Secondary and Quaternary plots) were

utilised during the field surveys.

Secondary surveys consist of a 20 m x 50 m transect, precisely marked using a Global Positioning

System (GPS) and accurately measured with a marking tape. Data recorded at each Secondary site

included a complete floral assemblage (all species observed from each vegetation layer). Species that

fall outside the plot but are deemed typical of the community are also listed. Where a plant could not

be positively identified to species level, a voucher specimen was collected for identification by the

Queensland Herbarium. Relative abundance for individual woody species in each stratum, stem

density, foliage projection cover and height of the tree and shrub layers was recorded. Percentage

composition of each ground cover species was recorded in five 1 m x 1 m quadrats located at 10 m

intervals along the transect line. A minimum of one representative Secondary plot was positioned in

each of the REs known to exist on the Project site. A total of nine Secondary flora sites were

assessed.

Quaternary or rapid vegetation survey sites consist of a single observation plot, marked into a GPS. At

each plot, important features relevant to vegetation community mapping are noted, such as dominant

species in the characteristic layers, vegetation structure, soil/landform and an intuitive classification of

the vegetation (i.e. RE). These plots are commonly used to ground truth desktop assessment and/or

mapping previously completed for the local area. A total of 33 Quaternary assessments were

conducted.

The condition and quality of vegetation at each survey site was assessed. Attention was paid to

identifying the presence of weeds, species of conservation significance or potential habitat for species

of conservation significance.

The location of the flora survey sites is shown in Figure 6. Flora and habitat values identified in the

desktop assessment were targeted in the site selection process.


Vegetation (RE) maps of the Project site were produced following field surveys to a minimum scale of

1:10 000. The maps were developed based upon survey results, satellite images, aerial photographs,

and geological maps featuring the Project site. Where possible, each RE is mapped as a homogenous

polygon wherever it occurs on the Project site. Occasionally vegetation patches occur that consist of

more than one RE. When the least common RE in the remnant patch is smaller than the minimum

mappable area defined in Neldner et al. (2012) or the structure of the vegetation does not allow clear

delineation of each RE, all contributing REs are mapped together as a “mixed polygon”.


Figure 6 Flora Survey Sites


5.2.1.1 Flora and Regional Ecosystem Identification

All plants encountered during the survey were identified by experienced ecologists using a number of

field guides and other reference material where necessary. All REs were described and classified

according to EHP’s Regional Ecosystem Descriptions Database (EHP, 2012). For any plant species

that could not be identified in the field, a voucher specimen was collected and sent to the Queensland

Herbarium for identification.

5.2.1.2 Surveys for Species of Conservation Significance

A number of flora species of conservation significance were highlighted in the desktop searches

undertaken prior to the field survey. Targeted searches for species of conservation significance were

undertaken upon the identification of suitable habitat in the field. Such searches involved the use of

methods discussed Neldner et al. (2012).

The targeted survey technique utilised in this study was the ‘Random Meander’ survey. This technique

involves traversing areas of suitable habitat along a meandering route whilst searching for the plant

species of interest. If there was any uncertainty in identification of a species, a voucher specimen was

collected for identification by the Queensland Herbarium.

5.3 FAUNA

The fauna survey methodology for the Project was based on the Terrestrial Vertebrate Fauna Survey

Guidelines for Queensland (DSITIA, 2012). The survey was conducted in compliance with AARC’s

scientific purposes permit and animal ethics approval. All fauna trapping efforts were conducted over

four consecutive nights (unless otherwise stated). Motion detector cameras and a micro-bat acoustic

detection device were set at some of the survey sites and at a selection of locations to target specific

fauna groups. Each fauna survey method is described in detail below

Many fauna species, notably frogs and reptiles, do not have widely accepted common names.

Scientific names for species often change with taxonomic revisions. For the purpose of this report, all

nomenclature used will follow that used in the EHP Wildlife Atlas.

5.3.1 DETECTION METHODS

A description of the techniques employed to survey the fauna occurring on the Project site is provided

below.

Elliott trapping

Type ‘A’ Elliott traps (aluminium boxes with doors triggered by a floor treadle) were used to target

small ground-dwelling mammals inhabiting the Project site during the field survey period. Traps were

baited with a mixture of oats, honey, peanut butter, sesame oil and vanilla essence. At each site, 20

Elliott traps were deployed at strategically positioned locations. Each trap was positioned

approximately ten metres from the next. The overall survey effort for Elliot trapping was 400 trap

nights.

Cage trapping

Cage traps are useful for capturing medium sized fauna that are unlikely to be caught in pitfall traps

and funnel traps. Cage traps were used only at sites where automated cameras were not used. One

cage trap was deployed at two of the fauna sites and baited with chicken necks. The overall survey

effort for cage trapping was eight trap nights.


Automated camera trapping

Automated camera trapping is a less invasive method of surveying medium and large-sized nocturnal

terrestrial species. Cameras are usually attached to a tree in a position that offers an unobstructed

view over a track or clearing. A bait tube constructed of a PVC pipe and filled with ‘marsupial bait’ and

dry cat food is pegged to the ground and positioned in clear view of the camera. Motion-sensing

technology in the camera picks up movement by target fauna which then triggers an automatic

photographic response. This is a highly effective survey method and is now widely used instead of

cage trapping (DSITIA, 2012). Automated cameras were deployed at three locations for four nights

and at another two locations for one night. Survey effort was 14 camera trap nights.

Pitfall trapping

A pitfall trap line was established at three of the survey sites to target small ground-dwelling fauna

(reptiles, mammals and amphibians). Each line consisted of a 20 centimetre (cm) tall drift fence

running along the ground and crossing the middle of four 20 litre buckets buried flush with the soil

surface. The bottom edge of each drift fence was buried to guide target animals towards the buckets.

A small amount of soil, vegetation litter, a damp sponge and a small plastic pipe were placed in the

bottom of each bucket to provide shelter and moisture for captured wildlife.

Funnel trapping

Funnel traps are elongated box-shaped traps made of wire and fine mesh. They have two funnel

shaped entrances which allow fauna to enter with ease but make exiting difficult. Funnel traps were

positioned at four fauna sites in order to catch medium and large-sized terrestrial reptiles, snakes and

some species of medium-sized skinks, dragons and geckos, which are able to climb out of pitfall traps.

Funnel traps were placed at the end of each drift fence at all pitfall traplines and along fallen timber at

targeted trap sites. Total funnel trap effort was 96 trap nights.

Micro-bat surveying

Micro-bats (Microchiropterans) form an extremely diverse group of wildlife and the identification of

individual species requires the use of specialised survey methods due to the superficial similarity of

many species, their small size, and largely inaudible calls.

In order to navigate and hunt at night micro-bats use high frequency echolocation calls, most of which

are above the frequency range audible to humans (i.e. ultrasound). These echolocation calls provide

an opportunity to unobtrusively survey and identify micro-bats through the use of a specialised

ultrasonic recorder such as a Songmeter. Such recorders were positioned to detect micro-bat calls at

strategic locations throughout the Project site. Sound recordings were sent to an experienced bat-call

analyst (Greg Ford of Balance! Environmental, Toowoomba, Queensland) for analysis.

Bird surveying

A dedicated search for diurnal birds was conducted visually and aurally on mornings and afternoons of

the survey in the immediate vicinity of each fauna transect. In addition, opportunistic diurnal searches

were also conducted on foot in areas considered likely to have high avian diversity (e.g. vegetated

dams), or likely to contain cryptic or threatened bird species. Approximately eight hours of diurnal bird

searching was conducted during the survey.


Spotlighting

Spotlighting was carried out at night in various sections of the Project site in order to observe

nocturnal wildlife (i.e. owls and arboreal mammals) unlikely to be detected by other survey methods.

Two spotlighting techniques were employed:

1. Walk searches: Areas within the Project site considered likely to contain cryptic or threatened

species, or high fauna diversity were investigated on foot. These areas were randomly

traversed by two ecologists equipped with spotlights and binoculars, and wherever possible,

bark crevices and tree hollows were examined. A slow walking speed (approximately 1 km per

hour) was maintained across the length of the survey area to fully facilitate intensive listening

and thorough visual searching. While this technique improves the likelihood of detecting small

cryptic species, it is a time consuming activity that does not permit the coverage of large

areas. The total spotlight hours undertaken on foot within the Project site was three person

hours.

2. Vehicle searches: Spotlighting was also conducted from a slow-moving vehicle where

established roads/tracks permitted driving through areas considered likely to have high wildlife

diversity or cryptic or threatened species. One 55-watt 12-volt spotlight was used to scan

roadside vegetation for arboreal and ground-dwelling wildlife. An advantage of this survey

technique is the efficiency with which large areas can be covered. A total of one person hour

of vehicle spotlighting was undertaken on the Project site during the survey.

Call Playback

The calls of nocturnal animals considered potentially present at the Project site were played during

spotlighting. The following calls were played from a handheld speaker:

Koala (Phascolarctos cinereus);

Masked Owl (Tyto novaehollandiae);

Barking Owl (Ninox connivens);

Australian Owlet-nightjar (Aegotheles cristatus);

Spotted Nightjar (Eurostopodus argus);

Southern Boobook (Ninox novaeseelandiae);

Grass Owl (Tyto capensis);

Powerful Owl (Ninox strenua);

Rufous Owl (Ninox rufa);

Barn Owl (Tyto javanica);

Yellow-bellied Glider (Petaurus australis); and

Tawny Frogmouth (Podargus strigoides).


Habitat searching

To further enhance the likelihood of detecting small cryptic species, opportunistic diurnal searches of

likely micro-habitats were conducted at each transect and in other selected areas on the Project site.

Searching techniques involved the rolling of rocks and logs, rustling through leaf litter, and peeling

back of exfoliating bark from standing trees. In addition, notes were made on habitat features such as

tree hollow numbers or the presence of fallen logs and bark. Observed animals were caught where

possible to aid positive species identification.

Scat/track searching

At each survey site a search of the immediate area was conducted for evidence of the presence of

wildlife through the identification of obvious tracks, scats and other signs of occupation (e.g. tree trunk

scratchings).

Incidental recordings

Throughout the survey period, numerous wildlife species were observed or heard on the Project site

during the course of routine activities (i.e. driving between sites, checking traps, vegetation surveys

etc.). Where required, a closer inspection of detected wildlife was carried out to ensure positive

species identification. All incidental observations were recorded and appropriate notes were made on

the surrounding habitat.

5.3.2 FAUNA SURVEY SITES

Detailed fauna surveys were carried out within each of the vegetation communities on the Project site.

Fauna trapping was conducted at five survey sites. Habitat searches, bird surveys and camera

trapping were conducted at an additional three targeted survey sites. A map of the location of each

fauna survey site is presented in Figure 7. Detailed descriptions of each survey site are provided

below.


Figure 7 Fauna Survey Sites


5.3.2.1 FS1

Site FS1 was located in a large patch of Poplar Gum (Eucalyptus platyphylla) woodland in the eastern

portion of the Project site. A T-shaped pitfall line (consisting of one 30 m pitfall fence with one 15 m

pitfall fence running perpendicular to it), six funnel traps, 20 Elliot traps, one camera trap and one

Songmeter were deployed at this site.

Photo Plate 1 Fauna Site 1

5.3.2.2 FS2

Fauna site two was located in a patch of Poplar Box (Eucalyptus populnea) woodland in the south-

west of the Project area. Twenty Elliot traps and an automated camera were deployed at this site. A

pitfall trapline could not be established due to the extremely hard nature of the clay soils at this site.

Targeted reptile searches were conducted when checking the Elliot trapline to compensate for the lack

of pitfall trapping at this site. The Songmeter could not be deployed at this site due to access being

restricted by heavy rainfall.



5.3.2.3 FS3

FS3 was located at Phillips Creek in the central portion of the site. The vegetation at this site was

dominated by River Red Gum (Eucalyptus camaldulensis) and Moreton Bay Ash (Corymbia

tessellaris). A pitfall line, six funnel traps, 20 Elliot traps, one camera and one Songmeter were

deployed at this site. A T-shaped design was not used at this site due to the narrow width of the

riparian habitat being sampled.



5.3.2.4 FS4

Site FS4 was located on the shores of Lake Vermont in a marsh area surrounded by Poplar Box

(Eucalyptus populnea) woodland. A pitfall line, six funnel traps, a cage trap and a Songmeter were

placed at this site. One automated camera was also deployed at FS4 for one night.



5.3.2.5 FS5

FS5 was located east of the large dam in the central portion of the site. This site was located in a

patch of Poplar Box regrowth vegetation dominated by shrubs and grasses such as Leichardt Bean

(Cassia brewsteri) and Guinea Grass (Panicum maximum). Twenty Elliot traps, one cage trap, six

funnel traps and a Songmeter were deployed at this site. This site was designed primarily to target

mammal species.



5.3.2.6 FS6

FS6 was a targeted bird survey site. It was located at the small dam in the south-west of the Project

site. No trapping was conducted at this site. Bird surveys, habitat searches and spotlighting for

amphibians were undertaken at FS6.



5.3.2.7 FS7

Site FS7 was a targeted large mammal survey site located at a crossing of Phillips Creek in the south-

west of the Project area. The site was located in riparian vegetation dominated by River Red Gum

(Eucalyptus camaldulensis), Moreton Bay Ash (Corymbia tessellaris), and River She-oak (Casuarina

cunninghamiana). One camera was deployed at this site and spotlighting, scat/track searches and bird

surveys were carried out.



5.3.2.8 FS8

FS8 was a targeted bird survey site. No trapping was conducted at this site. The site was located at

the large dam in the central portion of the Project area. FS8 was vegetated with a variety of grasses,

sedges and macrophytes. Buffel Grass (Cenchrus ciliaris) and Umbrella Cane Grass (Leptochloa

digitata) were the dominant grasses at this site.


6.0 RESULTS

6.1 SURVEY TIMING

The survey was conducted between the 13th and the 21

st of May 2013. Survey timing was selected in

accordance with the Terrestrial Vertebrate Fauna Survey Guidelines for Queensland, which

recommend that Autumn sampling be undertaken between March and mid-May (DSITIA, 2012).

6.2 WEATHER CONDITIONS

Weather conditions leading up to the survey were warm and wet, consistent with typical autumn

conditions. 12.4 mm of rain fell in May prior to the survey. 133.4 mm of rain fell in April 2013. During

the survey 17.8 mm of rain fell. Temperatures ranged from 8.6°C to 27°C. Conditions were generally

overcast, and cooler temperatures were experienced in the latter half of the survey.

6.3 FLORA RESULTS

A total of 232 flora species were identified on the Project site during the field survey. A full list of the

species observed is provided in Appendix B.

Eight vegetation communities were recorded on the Project site, six of which are classified as remnant

vegetation. These communities correspond to six REs:

Community 1 – Poplar Box Open Woodland on Alluvial Plains (RE 11.3.2);

Community 2 – Poplar Box Open Woodland on Sand Plains (RE 11.5.3);

Community 3 – River Red Gum Riparian Woodland (RE 11.3.25);

Community 4 – Poplar Gum Open Woodland (RE 11.3.35);

Community 5 – Mixed Bloodwood Open Woodland (RE 11.3.7);

Community 6 – Freshwater Wetlands (RE 11.3.27);

Community 7 – Regrowth Vegetation; and

Community 8 – Derived Grasslands (non-remnant).

Each of these vegetation communities are discussed in detail below. The location and extent of the

vegetation communities on the Project site is presented in Figure 8.

Figure 8 shows that the majority of the Project site has been cleared for grazing. Remaining

vegetation is confined to the banks of Phillips Creek, the two large dams and the area around Lake

Vermont in the eastern portion of the Project site.


Figure 8 Vegetation Communities of the Project Site


6.3.1 COMMUNITY 1 – POPLAR BOX OPEN WOODLAND ON ALLUVIAL PLAINS

6.3.1.1 Community Description

Community 1 is an open woodland dominated by Poplar Box (Eucalyptus populnea). This community

exists as small sections of remnant vegetation on alluvial deposits around the shore of Lake Vermont

in the east of the Project site.

This community is consistent with RE 11.3.2. Detailed information on Community 1, including the

dominant species in each stratum of vegetation, is presented in Table 6.

Table 6 Community 1 Profile

Regional Ecosystem RE 11.3.2 Eucalyptus populnea woodland on alluvial plains

Extent on Project site 9.7 ha

EPBC Status Not listed

VM Act Status Of Concern

Biodiversity Status Of Concern

Tree Layer Eucalyptus populnea (D), Lysiphyllum carronii (A), Corymbia

dallachiana (O)

Shrub Layer Carissa ovata (D), Cassia brewsteri (A)

Ground Layer Cenchrus ciliaris (D)

Weed Species Panicum maximum

Canopy Height 12 m

Crown Cover <20%


Photo Plate 9 Community 1 – Poplar Box Woodland on Alluvial Plains

6.3.1.2 Conservation Value

RE 11.3.2 is listed as Of Concern under both the VM Act and Biodiversity Status. In December 2006,

remnant extent was >10,000 ha and 10 – 30% of the pre-clearing area remained. The extent of this

community in reserve areas is low. RE 11.3.2 has been extensively cleared or modified by grazing.

6.3.1.3 Vegetation Condition and Habitat Value

Community 1 is small in extent (<10 ha). Vegetation dieback and cattle grazing were noted in this

community. The introduction of Buffel Grass has modified the ground layer of this community. It

provides suitable habitat for macropods, small mammals, woodland birds and reptiles.

6.3.2 COMMUNITY 2 – POPLAR BOX OPEN WOODLAND ON SAND PLAINS

Community 2 is a low open woodland of Poplar Box (E. populnea) and Ghost Gum (Corymbia

dallachiana) that occurs on Cainozoic sand plains. This vegetation community is found in one small

patch in the west of the Project site, north of Phillip’s Creek.

This community is consistent with RE 11.5.3. Detailed information on Community 2, including the

dominant species in each stratum of vegetation, is presented in Table 7.



Regional Ecosystem RE 11.5.3 Eucalyptus populnea and/or E. melanophloia and/or

Corymbia clarksoniana on Cainozoic sand plains/remnant surfaces



VM Act Status Least Concern

Biodiversity Status No concern at present

Tree Layer Eucalyptus populnea (D), Corymbia dallachiana (A), Corymbia

tessellaris (A), Corymbia clarksoniana (A), Acacia salicina (A)

Shrub Layer Cassia brewsteri (D), Carissa ovata (A)

Ground Layer Cenchrus ciliaris (D), Heteropogon contortus (A)

Weed Species -

Canopy Height 16 m

Crown Cover 11%

Photo Plate 10 Community 2 – Poplar Box Woodland on Sand Plains


RE 11.5.3 is listed as Least Concern, as remnant extent is greater than 10 000 ha and over 30% of

the pre-clearing area remains. The extent of this community in reserve areas is low. RE 11.5.3 has


been extensively cleared or modified by grazing, and is subject to total grazing pressure and Buffel

Grass invasion (EHP, 2013).


This vegetation community is in poor health and its extent on site is extremely limited. Weed invasion,

grazing and extensive dieback were noted in this community. This community is unlikely to form

significant fauna habitat. It provides a limited amount of food and shelter for animals such as

macropods, reptiles and birds.

6.3.3 COMMUNITY 3 – RIVER RED GUM RIPARIAN WOODLAND


Community 3 occurs in a continuous thin strip along the banks of Phillips Creek. It is the largest

vegetation community on the Project site. Table 8 describes Community 3 and lists the dominant

species recorded.


Regional Ecosystem RE 11.3.25 Eucalyptus tereticornis or E. camaldulensis woodland

fringing drainage lines





Tree Layer Eucalyptus camaldulensis (CD), Corymbia tessellaris (CD), Acacia

salicina (A)

Shrub Layer Lysiphyllum hookerii (D), Ficus opposita (A), Cassia brewsteri (A),

Acacia salicina (A)

Ground Layer Panicum maximum (D), Cenchrus ciliaris (A)

Weed Species Panicum maximum, Bidens bipinnata, Opuntia stricta, Passiflora

foetida, Vachellia farnesiana

Canopy Height 20 m

Crown Cover 30%


Photo Plate 11 Community 3 – River Red Gum Riparian Woodland


Community 3 has a Biodiversity Status of Of Concern. As of December 2006, just over 30% of its pre-

clearing extent (>10 000 ha) remained in Queensland.

The total area of this community located in protected areas is classed as low. It is impacted by total

grazing pressure and subject to invasion by Rubber Vine (Cryptostegia grandiflora) and Buffel Grass

(EHP, 2013).


This community possesses value as a movement corridor for fauna. It connects with larger patches of

remnant vegetation in the east of the Project area. Community 3 is present as a very narrow strip, and

therefore subject to edge effects, such as weed invasion. Grazing and erosion were noted in this

community. The ground layer is heavily modified and dominated by introduced pasture grasses.

6.3.4 COMMUNITY 4 – POPLAR GUM OPEN WOODLAND


Community 4 occurs in the east of the Project site. It is the second largest vegetation community on

the Project site. It consists of a canopy dominated by Poplar Gum (Eucalyptus platyphylla) with


associated Clarkson’s Bloodwood (Corymbia clarksoniana) and a patchy Paperbark (Melaleuca spp.)

understorey. Table 9 describes this community and lists the dominant plant species observed.


Regional Ecosystem RE 11.3.35 Eucalyptus platyphylla, Corymbia clarksoniana woodland on

alluvial plains




Biodiversity Status No concern at present

Tree Layer Eucalyptus platyphylla (D), Eucalyptus populnea (A/O), Corymbia

clarksoniana (A), Cassia brewsteri (A)

Shrub Layer Melaleuca viridiflora (D), Carissa ovata (A)

Ground Layer Cenchrus ciliaris (D), Arabidella eremigena (A)

Weed Species Melinis repens

Canopy Height 14 m

Crown Cover 17%

Photo Plate 12 Community 4 – Poplar Gum Woodland



Community 4 has a Biodiversity Status of Least Concern. At September 2009, over 30% and 10 000

ha of its pre-clearing extent remained. The extent of this community protected in reserves is low. In

some districts it is invaded by Chinee Apple (Ziziphus mauritiana) and Rubber Vine (Cryptostegia

grandiflora) (EHP, 2013).


Community 4 is well connected to remnant vegetation stands outside the Project area. This

community is relatively unaffected by disturbance. Minor infestations of exotic grasses were observed

in the ground layer. Grazing was noted in this community, but a high diversity of native grasses and

forbs persists. Community 4 provides habitat for many terrestrial species that utilise woodlands for

shelter and foraging, such as nectarivorous birds, reptiles, bats and arboreal mammals.


6.3.5 COMMUNITY 5 – MIXED BLOODWOOD OPEN WOODLAND


Community 5 is a tall woodland with a canopy of Clarkson’s Bloodwood (Corymbia clarksoniana),

Moreton Bay Ash (Corymbia tessellaris) and Ghost Gum (Corymbia dallachiana). This community

exists in a single patch in the north-east of the Project site. It is contiguous with Community 4. The

features and main species of Community 5 are described in Table 10.


Regional Ecosystem RE 11.3.7 Corymbia spp. woodland on alluvial plains.





Tree Layer Corymbia clarksoniana (D), Corymbia tessellaris (A), Corymbia

dallachiana (O)

Shrub Layer Petalostigma pubescens (D), Carissa ovata (A), Cassia brewsteri (O),

Ficus opposita (O)

Ground Layer Cenchrus ciliaris (CD), Melinis repens (CD), Heteropogon contortus (O)

Weed Species Melinis repens

Canopy Height 18 m

Crown Cover <20%


Photo Plate 13 Community 5 – Mixed Bloodwood Woodland


The Biodiversity Status of Community 5 is Of Concern. At September 2009, over 30% and 10 000 ha

of its pre-clearing extent remained (EHP, 2013). The extent of RE 11.3.7 in reserves is low. It is

subject to total grazing pressure and the introduction of Buffel Grass has displaced native species

from the ground layer (EHP, 2013).


Community 5 has been impacted by disturbance. The shrub and ground layers have been modified by

grazing activities and the canopy is affected by dieback. Groundcover is dominated by exotic pasture

species. The mature trees in this community may potentially provide limited habitat for a range of bird,

bat and reptile species, as well as arboreal mammals.


6.3.7 COMMUNITY 6 – FRESHWATER WETLANDS


This community occurs in the wetland areas of the Project site. The largest area of Community 6 is

located at Lake Vermont. One very small patch of this community is located south of Phillips Creek in

the west of the Project site. Community 6 is described in Table 11.


Regional Ecosystem RE 11.3.27 Freshwater wetlands





Tree Layer Eucalyptus camaldulensis (D), Corymbia tessellaris (A), Eucalyptus

populnea (A)

Shrub Layer Cassia brewsteri (D), Citrus glauca (A)

Ground Layer Leptochloa digitata (CD), Elaeocharis sphacelata (CD), Elaeocharis

pallens (CD), Ludwigia peploides (CD)

Weed Species Cynodon dactylon, Argemone ochroleuca, Passiflora foetida

Canopy Height 20 m

Crown Cover 12%


Photo Plate 14 Community 6 – Freshwater Wetlands


Community 6 has a VM Act Status of Least Concern and Biodiversity Status of Of Concern. Its extent

in reserve areas is low. In December 2006, remnant extent was >10,000 ha and >30% of the pre-

clearing area remained (EHP, 2013).


This community provides important habitat for a diverse range of aquatic birds and frogs. It also

provides drinking water for terrestrial fauna. It has a high proportion of native species and is relatively

unaffected by grazing. It is well connected to surrounding patches of remnant vegetation.

6.3.8 COMMUNITY 7 – REGROWTH VEGETATION


Community 7 consists of regrowth of various vegetation communities. The regrowth vegetation

consists mainly of Brigalow (Acacia harpophylla) regrowth and Poplar Box (E. populnea) regrowth,

located around the central dam area and in the south-west and north-east corners of the Project site.

Small patches of Freshwater Wetland, Mixed Bloodwood and River Red Gum Woodland regrowth

occur in the north-east of the Project site, south of Phillips Creek. The largest patch of this community

occurs around the central dam area. Community 7 is discussed in further detail in Table 12.



Regional Ecosystem N/A. Non-remnant.



VM Act Status Not listed

Biodiversity Status N/A

Tree Layer

Variable. Key species include Eucalyptus cambageana, Casuarina

cristata, Eucalyptus populnea, Corymbia dallachiana, Lysiphyllum

hookeri, Eucalyptus camaldulensis, Corymbia clarksoniana, Corymbia

tessellaris

Shrub Layer Variable. Key species include Acacia harpophylla, Carissa ovata,

Cassia brewsteri

Ground Layer Variable. Key species include Panicum maximum, Cenchrus ciliaris,

Heteropogon contortus, Bothriochloa decipiens

Weed Species Opuntia stricta

Canopy Height 12 m

Crown Cover 0 - 50%

Photo Plate 15 Community 7 – Regrowth Vegetation



The regrowth vegetation is mapped as Category X vegetation, which means that this vegetation is not

regulated under the VM Act. Brigalow regrowth is listed as an Endangered Ecological Community (and

therefore a MNES) under the EPBC Act only if:

Queensland law requires a clearing permit; or

The regrowth is more than 15 years old.

Additionally, Brigalow regrowth is not considered part of the Brigalow Endangered Ecological

Community if it is of poor quality. Activities that affect Brigalow regrowth of poor quality are therefore

not subject to the EPBC Act (DSEWPAC, 2003). The Brigalow regrowth on the Project site was noted

to be of poor quality due to past clearing, the introduction of exotic species, dieback and construction

of roads and fences. Therefore, it does not form part of the Brigalow Endangered Ecological

Community, is not classified as a MNES, and clearing is not subject to the requirements of the EPBC

Act.


This vegetation community is severely degraded. Extensive dieback of the canopy was noted. Ground

cover is dominated by exotic pasture species. The largest patch (located around the central dam) is

extremely fragmented by tracks and fencelines. This vegetation community is generally surrounded by

cleared areas and isolated from the other communities that occur on site. It has limited habitat

potential for small mammals, reptiles and birds, which may shelter in the denser stands of Brigalow.

Dead trees provide a small amount of shelter for hollow-dwelling animals, such as bats.


6.3.10 COMMUNITY 8 – NON-REMNANT GRASSLAND


Community 8 covers the majority of the Project site. It is dominated by improved pasture species such

as Buffel Grass (Cenchrus ciliaris). This community was formed by the removal of native vegetation to

facilitate grazing activities. No native grassland communities were identified on the Project site.

Typical floral assemblages for each stratum in this community are outlined in Table 13.


Regional Ecosystem N/A. Non-remnant.

Description Open grassland dominated by exotic grasses with scattered shrubs and

low trees.


EPBC Status N/A

VM Act Status N/A

Biodiversity Status N/A

Tree Layer Absent

Shrub Layer Very sparse. Apophyllum anomalum (CD), Acacia salicina (CD), Atalaya

hemiglauca (A)

Ground Layer Urochloa mosambicensis (D), Cenchrus ciliaris (A)

Weed Species Parthenium hysterophorus, Stylosanthes scabra, Medicago polymorpha,

Bidens bipinnata, Harrisia martinii

Canopy Height 4 m

Crown Cover 0%


Photo Plate 16 Community 8 – Derived Grassland


This community is non-remnant, heavily disturbed and dominated by exotic species. It is therefore of

little conservation value.


This community is heavily disturbed. The tree layer has been removed and the groundcover is

dominated by exotic pasture grasses and weeds. Community 8 is subject to heavy grazing. This

community provides foraging habitat for the threatened Squatter Pigeon (southern) (Geophaps scripta

scripta). This species was observed within this community on the Project site and is locally common

within cleared grazing lands. Community 8 also provides habitat for other species that feed on grass

and grass-seed, such as large macropods and granivorous birds.

6.3.11 FLORA SPECIES AND VEGETATION COMMUNITIES OF CONSERVATION SIGNIFICANCE

6.3.11.1 Threatened Species

No threatened flora species were observed on the Project site during the survey period. Although

potentially suitable habitat exists on the site for a small number of threatened flora species, targeted

surveys were unable to locate these species. As a result, the proposed Project is highly unlikely to

impact on any flora species of conservation significance.


6.3.11.2 Summary of Threatened Communities

Community 1 has a VM Act Status of Of Concern. The extent of this community on the Project site is

very small. The ground layer of this community is dominated by introduced species and the shrub

layer is essentially absent. This community has been modified by grazing and is subject to canopy

dieback.

6.3.12 WEEDS OF MANAGEMENT CONCERN

The exotic pasture grass Buffel Grass (Cenchrus ciliaris) dominates the ground layer of the Project

site, particularly in cleared areas. A range of other exotic grasses and forbs are also present across

the Project site in low to moderate abundance.

Three declared Class 2 weeds under the LP Act were recorded in small numbers during the survey:

Harrisia Cactus (Harrisia martini);

Prickly Pear (Opuntia stricta); and

Parthenium (Parthenium hysterophorus).

Parthenium and Prickly Pear are also classified as WONS.

6.4 FAUNA RESULTS

A total of 163 fauna species were identified on the Project site during the survey period. This consisted

of six amphibians, 124 birds, 12 reptiles and 20 mammals. A complete list of species recorded during

the survey is provided in Appendix D.

Fauna habitat on the Project site is generally fragmented and heavily disturbed by grazing activities.

The majority of the Project site has been cleared and is vegetated with predominantly exotic pasture

species. The riparian corridor along Phillips Creek is narrow and subject to vegetation dieback, weed

invasion and erosion. It is however the only continuous corridor of vegetation on the Project site, and

is likely to facilitate the movement and dispersal of aquatic and woodland fauna across the

predominantly cleared site. The largest, most significant and intact area of fauna habitat on the Project

site is the area of remnant woodland on the eastern boundary of the Project site and the freshwater

wetland at Lake Vermont. Lake Vermont and the two cattle dams on the Project site provide habitat for

a variety of aquatic birds.

6.4.1 AMPHIBIANS

Six amphibian species were recorded on the Project site during the field survey. One of these species,

the Cane Toad (Rhinella marina), is an introduced species. Cane Toads are common on the Project

site. The most abundant native frog species on the Project site were the Salmon-striped Frog

(Limnodynastes salmini) and the Spotted Marsh Frog (Limnodynastes tasmaniensis). A single Scarlet

Sided Pobblebonk (Limnodynastes terreginae) was captured in a pitfall trap at FS1 (shown in Photo

Plate 17). The Desert Treefrog (Litoria rubella) was observed in Phillips Creek. The Bumpy Rocketfrog

(Litoria inermis) was captured in a funnel trap at FS4 on the shore of Lake Vermont.

Suitable habitat for amphibians occurs at Lake Vermont; the two cattle dams and along Phillips Creek.

Phillips Creek is an ephemeral creek, so it does not provide permanent water for frog species. It has a

sandy bed and banks that provide excellent habitat for burrowing frogs. The creek is likely to provide


good amphibian habitat in the wetter summer and autumn months. Frogs also inhabit the grassy

woodland near Lake Vermont.

Photo Plate 17 Scarlet Sided Pobblebonk (Limnodynastes terreginae)

6.4.1.1 Amphibian Species of Conservation Significance

No amphibian species of conservation significance (including Back on Track priority species) were

identified on the Project site.

6.4.2 BIRDS

A total of 124 bird species were observed during the survey period. The variety of habitat types on the

Project site supports a diverse range of bird species. Grassland habitats cover the majority of the site,

and support granivorous birds such as the Brown Quail (Coturnix ypsilophora), Galah (Eolophus

roseicapilla) and Budgerigar (Melopsittacus undulatus).

The Poplar Box and Poplar Gum woodlands in the west and east of site and the riparian woodland

along Phillips Creek are inhabited by a variety of insectivorous and nectivorous birds, such as the

Grey Fantail (Rhipidura albiscapa), Rufous Whistler (Pachycephala rufiventris), White-throated

Honeyeater (Melithreptus albogularis) and Blue-faced Honeyeater (Entomyzon cyanotis). Frugivorous

bird species, such as the Australasian Figbird (Sphecotheres vielloti) were uncommon on site,

probably due to a lack of fruiting plants.

Relatively high numbers of raptor species were observed in all habitats on the Project site, including

the Collared Sparrowhawk (Accipter cirrocephalus), Brown Goshawk (Accipter fasciatus), Wedge-

tailed Eagle (Aquila audax) and Pacific Baza (Aviceda subcristata). Photo Plate 18 shows the Spotted


Harrier (Circus assimilis), which was observed in cleared areas. The nocturnal Tawny Frogmouth

(Podargus strigoides) and Eastern Barn Owl (Tyto alba) were also recorded, on the edge of the

riparian habitat along Phillips Creek.

A diverse range of aquatic bird species, including a variety of Cormorants, Egrets, Dotterels, Ducks

and Herons were present in relatively high numbers on the two cattle dams and at Lake Vermont.

The full list of bird species observed on the Project site is provided in Appendix D.

Photo Plate 18 Spotted Harrier (Circus assimilis)

6.4.2.1 Bird Species of Conservation Significance

Many of the bird species of conservation significance detected by the desktop searches are listed as

“High Mobility” Taxa (EPA, 2002). The presence of such mobile species on the Project site is thought

to be sporadic, and they are able to utilise other favourable habitats away from the Project site.

Impacts on these High Mobility species are therefore unlikely.

Threatened and Near Threatened Species

One vulnerable and three near threatened bird species were identified on the Project site:

Squatter Pigeon (southern subspecies) (Geophaps scripta scripta) (Vulnerable);

Cotton Pygmy Goose (Nettapus coromandelianus);


Freckled Duck (Stictonetta naevosa); and

Black-necked Stork (Ephippiorhynchus asiaticus).

Each of these species is discussed in detail below. All four species are classified as High Mobility

Taxa. No Back on Track priority bird species were identified on the Project site.

Squatter Pigeon (southern subspecies)

The Squatter Pigeon (southern subspecies) (Geophaps scripta scripta) (shown in Photo Plate 19) was

found on the Project site. It is listed as Vulnerable under both the EPBC Act and NC Act. A pair was

observed in a clear grassy area near the small dam in the west of the Project site and the southern

Squatter Pigeon was also heard calling in woodland near Lake Vermont.

Photo Plate 19 Southern Squatter Pigeon (Geophaps scripta scripta)


The southern Squatter Pigeon occurs on the inland slopes of the Great Dividing Range, from the

Burdekin-Lynd divide in central Queensland, west to Charleville and Longreach, east to the coastline

between Proserpine and Gladstone, and south to scattered sites throughout south-eastern

Queensland (DSEWPAC, 2013). Southern Squatter Pigeons inhabit a range of habitats, including

grassy woodlands, open forests and disturbed areas (including heavily grazed areas, roads and

railways). The southern Squatter Pigeon is commonly observed close to waterbodies (DSEWPAC,

2013). Southern Squatter Pigeons feed on seeds and insects, for which they forage on the ground.

The southern Squatter Pigeon is locally common north of the Tropic of Capricorn. The population is

thought to be stable at present (DSEWPAC, 2013).

The main threats to the southern Squatter Pigeon are habitat loss, habitat degradation and excessive

predation (particularly from cats and foxes) (DSEWPAC, 2013).

Suitable habitat for the southern Squatter Pigeon exists throughout the Project site. Given that only a

small number of individuals were observed during the survey, it is unlikely that the Project site is of

particular importance to this species. Suitable habitat is extensive throughout the local area including

immediately adjacent to the Project site. Given the mobile nature of this species, the continuing

presence of suitable habitat both on and off site, and its ability to utilise disturbed habitats, it is

considered unlikely that the Project will have a significant impact on the southern Squatter Pigeon.

Cotton Pygmy Goose

The Cotton Pygmy Goose (Nettapus coromandelianus) is listed as Near Threatened under the NC

Act. It is not listed under the EPBC Act. Flocks of Cotton Pygmy Geese were observed on Lake

Vermont.

The Cotton Pygmy Goose inhabits wetlands in coastal and subcoastal tropical north-east Queensland.

It is also found in Asia and Papua New Guinea. In Australia it occurs as far south as Brisbane and

west to Charters Towers and Clermont. It is almost entirely aquatic. The Cotton Pygmy Goose prefers

deep, permanent, fresh waterbodies (including artificial dams) that support abundant floating and

submerged aquatic plants. These plants form the basis of its diet (Marchant and Higgins, 1993).

The range of the Cotton-Pygmy Goose contracted at the end of the 19th century. It was previously

found as far south as the Hunter River in New South Wales. Threats to the species include wetland

drainage, grazing and introduced aquatic plants (Marchant and Higgins, 1993). The population is

currently stable and relatively large in size (BirdLife International, 2013).

Suitable habitat for the Cotton Pygmy Goose occurs at Lake Vermont and the central dam. The central

dam is likely to be impacted by Project development. Project activities may reduce the amount of

suitable habitat available to the species on the Project site. Cotton Pygmy Geese are mobile and will

be able to relocate to suitable habitat in nearby wetlands along the Isaac River.

Freckled Duck

The Freckled Duck (Stictonetta naevosa) is listed as Near Threatened under the NC Act. It is not listed

under the EPBC Act. Small numbers of Freckled Ducks were observed at Lake Vermont and at the

central dam.

The Freckled Duck is endemic to south-east and south-west Australia. It is widespread in central and

southern Queensland. It inhabits wetlands, usually with shallow water. They prefer densely vegetated


ephemeral waters in the breeding season and large, permanent, open waterbodies in the non-

breeding period. Freckled Ducks are filter feeders (Marchant and Higgins, 1993).

The main threat to the species is the destruction or modification of wetlands from activities such as

drainage, flood mitigation works, clearing and grazing. Shooting has also been identified as a threat in

southern areas (Marchant and Higgins, 1993). The Freckled Duck population is suspected to be

fluctuating, with no clear trend at present (BirdLife International, 2013).

Suitable habitat for the Freckled Duck occurs at Lake Vermont and the central dam. These areas are

likely to be impacted by Project development. Project activities may reduce the amount of suitable

habitat available to the species on the Project site. Freckled Ducks are highly mobile and will be able

to relocate to suitable habitat in nearby wetlands along the Isaac River.

Black-necked Stork

The Black-necked Stork (Ephippiorhynchus asiaticus) (shown in Photo Plate 20) is listed as Near

Threatened under the NC Act. It is not listed under the EPBC Act. Pairs of Black-necked Storks were

observed at Lake Vermont and the small dam in the north-west of site.

The Black-necked Stork is found throughout India, south-east Asia, Papua New Guinea and Australia.

It is widespread in coastal and near-coastal areas across northern and eastern Australia. It inhabits

tropical and warm-temperate wetlands and estuaries, grasslands and woodlands. The Black-necked

Stork prefers shallow, open, fresh waterbodies, but is known to use a wide variety of aquatic habitats.

It feeds mostly on fish and crustaceans (Marchant and Higgins, 1993).

Threats to the Black-necked Stork are drainage of wetlands, Mimosa pigra invasion of habitat, habitat

destruction by Feral Buffalo and encroachment of development. The Black-necked Stork is known to

be sensitive to disturbance (Marchant and Higgins, 1993). The population size of the Black-necked

Stork is moderately small, but stable (BirdLife International, 2013).

Suitable habitat for the Black-necked Stork occurs at all wetland and dam areas on the Project site.

Phillips Creek may also provide suitable habitat for the species in the wet season. Some of these

areas are likely to be impacted by Project development. Project activities may reduce the amount of

suitable habitat available to the species on the Project site. The Black-necked Stork is highly mobile

and will be able to relocate to suitable habitat in nearby wetlands along the Isaac River.


Photo Plate 20 Black-necked Storks (Ephippiorhynchus asiaticus)

Migratory and Marine Species

Twenty-six listed marine species and four migratory bird species were recorded within the Project

area. A full list of these species is provided in Table 14.

Table 14 Migratory and Marine Species Observed on the Project Site

Species Marine Migratory

Himantopus himantopus Black-winged Stilt

X

Accipiter fasciatus

Brown Goshawk X

Haliastur sphenurus Whistling Kite

X

Haliaeetus leucogaster White-bellied Sea Eagle

X X

Ardea modesta Eastern Great Egret

X X

Ardea intermedia Intermediate Egret

X

Coracina novaehollandiae Black-faced Cuckoo-shrike

X

Scythrops novaehollandiae Channel-billed Cuckoo

X


Species Marine Migratory

Dicrurus bracteatus Spangled Drongo

X

Falco cenchroides Nankeen Kestrel

X

Hirundo neoxena Welcome Swallow

X

Petrochelidon nigricans Tree Martin

X

Merops ornatus Rainbow Bee-eater

X X

Grallina cyanoleuca Magpie-lark

X

Anthus novaeseelandiae

Australasian Pipit X

Pelecanus conspicillatus Australian Pelican

X

Ninox boobook Southern Boobook

X

Ardea ibis Cattle Egret

X X

Circus approximans

Swamp Harrier X

Dendrocygna arcuata

Wandering Whistling-duck X

Egretta garzetta

Little Egret X

Hydroprogne caspia

Caspian Tern X

Nettapus pulchellus Green Pygmy-goose

X

Porzana pusilla

Baillon’s Crake X

Threskiornis molucca

Australian White Ibis X

Threskiornis spinicollis

Straw-necked Ibis X

The Project is unlikely to have a significant impact on these species as they are generally common,

widespread and highly mobile and will be able to use the suitable habitat that exists outside the mine

footprint and the Project site.

6.4.3 REPTILES

A total of 12 reptile species were observed during the survey. Habitat suitable for reptiles occurs

throughout the Project site, and includes grasslands, the riparian vegetation along Phillips Creek and

the remnant woodland in the east of the site. Riparian and woodland habitats are particularly important

reptile habitat, as they provide fallen timber, bark, leaf litter and hollows/crevices that many reptile

species use for shelter.

Few reptiles were captured at the survey sites. Most reptiles were observed opportunistically while

traversing the Project site. The most frequently observed species were the Inland Snake-eyed Skink


(Cryptoblepharus australis) and the Elegant Snake-eyed Skink (Cryptoblepharus pulcher). These

small skinks were observed on the trunks of large trees at Phillips Creek, Lake Vermont and the small

Poplar Box woodland in the west of the site. The Tree Dtella (Gehyra variegata, shown in Photo Plate

21) and Bynoe’s Gecko (Heteronotia bynoei) were also frequently encountered in wooded areas of the

Project site. A single Eastern Snake-neck Turtle (Chelodina longicollis) corpse was encountered

adjacent to the central dam. Three ground-dwelling snake species, the Yellow-faced Whipsnake

(Demansia psammophis), the Carpentaria Snake (Cryptophis boschmai) and a Black Snake

(Pseudechis sp.) were identified. One arboreal snake species, a deceased Green Tree Snake

(Dendrolaphis punctulata), was also observed. The Yellow-faced Whipsnake was the most commonly

encountered snake.

Other reptile species recorded in low numbers were the Lively Rainbow Skink (Carlia vivax) and

Shaded Litter Skink (Lygisaurus foliorum). A single Fire-tailed Skink (Morethia taeniopleura) was

captured in disturbed woodland near Phillips Creek.

Photo Plate 21 Tree Dtella (Gehyra variegata)

6.4.3.1 Reptile Species of Conservation Significance

No reptile species of conservation significance or Back on Track priority species were observed on the

Project site.


6.4.4 MAMMALS

A total of 20 mammals were positively identified on the Project site. This includes seven microbat

species identified from acoustic recordings. Another seven microbat species may also be present, but

could not be confirmed as present, or identified to species level, due to the constraints of the acoustic

recording method used to detect bats.

Habitat suitable for a range of large and small mammal species, arboreal mammals and bats was

present across the Project area. The cleared pasture areas provided habitat suitable for large grazers,

such as Kangaroos. The riparian vegetation along Phillips Creek contains large, hollow-bearing trees

that are suitable habitat for bats and arboreal mammals. Wetland areas provide habitat for aquatic

mammals such as the Water Rat (Hydromys chrysogaster) and drinking water for larger mammal

species. The wooded areas of the Project site contain dense low shrubs, hollow logs and leaf litter,

which are potential small mammal habitat. The fenced area near the central dam also contained tall

grasses which were considered suitable mammal habitat.

No small mammal species were observed or captured during the survey, despite the presence of

potentially suitable habitat and seeding grasses. This was consistent with the results of other recent

surveys conducted by AARC in the local area. It is possible that the disturbed, grazed and weed-

dominated ground cover on the Project site is unfavourable habitat for small mammals. Nearby mining

activity, altered fire frequency and predation by introduced species such as the Feral Cat may have

also impacted the small mammal population on the Project site.

Four species of native medium-sized ground mammals were recorded on the Project site. The

Northern Brown Bandicoot (Isoodon macrourus) was the most commonly encountered of these. It was

found at most survey sites. The Water Rat (Hydromys chrysogaster) was photographed by automated

camera at Lake Vermont and its tracks were observed in Phillips Creek. The tracks of the Rufous

Bettong (Aepyprymnus rufescens) were observed at Lake Vermont and Echidna (Tachyglossus

aculeatus) scats were identified at FS1.

The only large native mammal observed on the Project site was the Eastern Grey Kangaroo

(Macropus giganteus). Small numbers of Eastern Grey Kangaroos were observed in cleared areas, in

the Poplar Box woodland and on the shores of Lake Vermont.

Six introduced mammal species were observed on the Project site. The Feral Cat (Felis catus), Feral

Pig (Sus scrofa) and European Rabbit (Oryctolagus cuniculus) were observed in cleared areas

adjacent to the site access track. Feral Pig tracks were also observed in Phillips Creek. A Dingo

(Canis familiaris dingo) was photographed by automated camera at FS1 and Dingo tracks were also

observed in Phillips Creek and at Lake Vermont. Large numbers of domestic Cattle (Bos taurus) and

Horses (Equus caballus) also inhabit the Project site. The Feral Cat, Feral Pig, Dingo and European

Rabbit are Class 2 declared pests.

The only arboreal mammal observed on the Project site was the Common Brush-tailed Possum

(Trichosurus vulpecula). It was observed in Phillips Creek and its scats were collected from the Poplar

Box woodland in the west of the site. Glider feed marks were observed on trees in the wooded areas

of the Project site. These marks are likely to be caused by the Sugar Glider (Petaurus breviceps).

Suitable habitat for arboreal mammals on the Project site is restricted to Phillips Creek and the

remnant woodland in the east of the site. These two areas contain mature, hollow-bearing trees that

arboreal mammals use for shelter and feeding. The Poplar Box regrowth in the west of the site also

provides some habitat for arboreal mammals, but due to the small size and isolated nature of this

patch of vegetation it is unlikely to form significant habitat.


A total of seven bat species were positively identified from acoustic recordings. Bat species commonly

recorded were Gould’s Wattled Bat (Chalinolobus gouldii), the Chocolate Wattled Bat (Chalinolobus

morio), Beccari’s Freetail Bat (Mormopterus beccarii) and the Yellow-bellied Sheathtail Bat

(Saccolaimus flaviventris). Long-eared Bats (Nyctophilus geoffroy and/or N. gouldi) were also

commonly recorded, but could not be identified to species level. White-striped Freetail Bats

(Austronomus australis) and Broad-nosed Bats (Scotorepens greyii and/or S. sanborni) were also

recorded. An additional five species of bat from several genera may also be present on the Project

site, but their presence could not be reliably confirmed from the call data collected. The full microbat

analysis report is provided in Appendix E. The likelihood of threatened bat species inhabiting the

Project site is discussed in Table 15, however, no threatened species were observed within the

Project site.

6.4.4.1 Mammal Species of Conservation Significance

No mammal species of conservation significance were positively identified on the Project site. No

mammalian Back on Track priority species were identified on the Project site.

6.4.5 PEST SPECIES

Five pest species were identified on the Project site, four of which are Class 2 pests under the LP Act.

Landholders must take reasonable steps to control Class 2 pests on their land.

Cane Toads (Rhinella marina) were observed in and around wetland areas on the Project site. Cane

Toads are toxic to animals that consume them and they prey on a range of small native wildlife.

Feral Cats (Felis catus) prey on a range of small native species. Feral Cat predation has caused the

extinction of several native mammal species. They can also transmit fatal diseases to native

mammals.

Dingoes (Canis familiaris dingo) prey on both stock and native wildlife. They carry disease and can

pose a risk to human safety.

Feral Pigs (Sus scrofa) favour riparian habitats. They cause erosion and degradation of these areas

by trampling, wallowing and stripping vegetation. Feral Pigs are known to prey on small native

animals. They can also spread disease.

Rabbits (Oryctolagus cuniculus) are a widespread and very abundant pest species. They consume

native vegetation and compete with small native herbivores for food. High rabbit numbers can cause

degradation of native vegetation and erosion.

6.4.6 REGIONAL FAUNA SPECIES OF CONSERVATION SIGNIFICANCE

This section discusses species of conservation significance that are known from the broad region and

have been identified from desktop searches, but were not observed on the Project site during the

survey.

The assessment of potential for presence and impact on each species is based on the knowledge of

AARC ecologists, information obtained from field surveys on the Project site, previous surveys

conducted on or near the Project site and scientific literature.

Many of the bird species of conservation significance detected by the desktop searches are listed as

“High Mobility” Taxa (EPA, 2002). The presence of such mobile species on the Project site is thought


to be sporadic, and they are able to utilise other favourable habitats away from the Project site.

Impacts on these High Mobility species are therefore unlikely.


Table 15 Assessment of Likelihood of Occurrence and Potential Impacts on Threatened Fauna Species identified from Desktop Searches

Species

Status Habitat Description and Likelihood of

Occurrence Assessment of Impact Significance EPBC

Act

NC

Act

Threatened Species

Northern Hairy-nosed

Wombat

Lasiorhinus krefftii

E E

Forage in open Eucalypt woodlands with

open areas of native grass. Excavate burrows

on deep, sandy soils often along dry creek

beds (Menkhorst and Knight, 2011).

Highly unlikely to occur on the Project site as this species is

only found in two areas, which are located far west of the

site. Scat/track searching did not reveal any sign of

occupation by this species. Spotlighting was also conducted.

As per Commonwealth survey guidelines, trapping is not

necessary to ascertain the presence of this species.

Black-throated Finch

Poephila cincta cincta E E

Inhabits open woodland, scrubby plains and

Pandanus flats with deep cover of grasses.

Its habitat is never far from water. It is known

to occur south of Townsville, particularly

around Townsville and Charters Towers

(DSEWPAC, 2013).

This species is unlikely to occur on the Project site. There is

some potentially suitable habitat on the Project site, but the

Black-throated Finch is not known from the local area.

Targeted bird surveys and searches for threatened species

were conducted during the survey. Eight hours of diurnal bird

surveys were conducted and opportunistic searches were

conducted in areas containing habitat likely to support

threatened birds. It is therefore unlikely that the Project will

impact this species.

Ornamental Snake

Denisonia maculata V V

Known only from the Brigalow Belt

biogeographical region, chiefly from the

Fitzroy and Dawson River catchments.

Prefers woodlands and open forests

associated with moist areas, particularly gilgai

(melon-hole) mounds and depressions. Also

occurs on lake margins and wetlands.

Suitable habitat for this species exists around Lake Vermont

and other wetland areas. It was not recorded during the

survey. Pitfall trap lines targeted small ground-dwelling

fauna, including reptiles, and funnel traps were used to

capture various reptiles. No significant impacts are expected

on populations of this species as minimal habitat is expected

to be disturbed and suitable habitat remains on and

immediately off-site outside main disturbance areas.


Species



Act

NC

Act

Brigalow Scaly-foot

Paradelma orientalis NL V

Inhabits a variety of habitats on ridges, sand

or clays. Appears to prefer undisturbed

vegetation where grass, fallen timber, rocks

or dense leaf litter provides shelter

(DSEWPAC, 2013).

Suitable habitat for this species occurs in the woodland

remnants. It was not observed during the survey. No

significant impacts are expected on populations of this

species as minimal habitat is expected to be disturbed and

suitable habitat remains on and immediately off-site outside

main disturbance areas.

Red Goshawk

Erythrotriorchis radiatus V E

This species prefers forest and woodland with

a mosaic of vegetation types, large prey

populations (birds) and permanent water. The

vegetation types include Eucalypt woodland,

open forest, tall open forest, gallery rainforest,

swamp sclerophyll forest, and rainforest

margins. The Red Goshawk nests in large

trees, within 1 km of permanent water.

May occur on site. The Project site does not contain the

mosaic of habitat types preferred by this species; therefore

impacts upon this species are unlikely. This species is listed

as a ‘High Mobility Taxon’. Given its high mobility and the

continued presence of habitat on and around the Project site,

no significant impact on this species is expected.

Star Finch

Neochmia ruficauda

ruficauda

E E

Inhabits tall grass and reed beds associated

with swamps and watercourses in central

Queensland. It may also be found in grassy

woodlands, open forests, mangroves, urban

and cleared areas.

Highly unlikely to occur on site as expert opinion suggests

this taxon is extinct in the wild (Garnett, Szabo and Dutson,

2010). Some suitable habitat exists on site but it is extremely

unlikely that it is utilised by the Star Finch. Targeted bird

surveys and searches for threatened species were

conducted during the survey. Eight hours of diurnal bird

surveys were conducted and opportunistic searches were

conducted in areas containing habitat likely to support

threatened birds.

Grey Goshawk

Accipiter novaehollandiae NL NT

Inhabits rainforests, forests and tall

woodlands in coastal northern Australia and

eastern Australia (Pizzey and Knight, 2007).

Unlikely to occur on site due to the absence of suitable

habitat.


Species



Act

NC

Act

Masked Owl (northern)

Tyto novaehollandiae

kimberli

V V

Found in open forest, rainforest or riparian

forest, as well as paperbark swamps and on

edges of mangrove forests. The Masked Owl

(northern) typically nests in hollowed trees, or

in portions of closed forest (DSEWPAC,

2013). The northern sub-species occurs north

of Townsville and in areas west to the

Northern Territory border (Curtis & Dennis,

2012).

There is some potentially suitable habitat in the riparian area

of Phillips Creek. However, it is considered unlikely that the

northern sub-species of the Masked Owl would occur as far

south as the Project site. No records of the species are

known within the region of the Project. Targeted bird surveys

and searches for threatened species were conducted during

the survey, including call playback (one night) for the

northern Masked Owl and spotlighting for nocturnal species.

Little Pied Bat

Chalinolobus picatus NL NT

Found throughout central Queensland from

Greenvale to the New South Wales border in

open sclerophyll forest and woodlands,

chenopod shrub land and mallee. Prefers

roosting in large trees in woodlands, and

regularly hunts over water (Churchill, 2010;

Duncan et al., 1999).

Suitable habitat for this species exists in all wooded areas of

the Project site, particularly the woodland around Phillips

Creek and Lake Vermont. Some of this habitat will be

removed for Project development. Suitable habitat will

continue to exist on the Project site within woodlands outside

the mining footprint and in the wooded areas adjacent to the

Project site. Any impact on this species is predicted to be

minor.

Northern Quoll

Dasyurus hallucatus E NL

The Northern Quoll is most abundant in rocky

Eucalypt woodland. It occurs in a range of

vegetation types, mostly within 200 km of

coast (Menkhorst and Knight, 2011).

Unlikely to occur on the Project site due to the absence of

rocky habitat and the inland location of the site.


Species



Act

NC

Act

South-eastern Long-eared

Bat

Nyctophilus corbeni/

timoriensis

V V

Found across semi-arid southern Australia to

southern Queensland. Inhabits a range of dry

woodland and shrubland communities in arid

and semi-arid regions. Roosts mostly in tree

hollows (Menkhorst and Knight, 2011).

Suitable habitat exists in the wooded areas of the Project

site. Ultrasonic recorders were used across the site to record

micro-bat echolocation calls. Recordings were analysed by

an experienced bat-call analyst. The South-eastern Long-

eared Bat was not identified (neither positively nor possibly)

through these recordings. Suitable habitat will remain in

undisturbed portions of the Project site and in woodland

adjacent to the Project site. Given the mobility of this

species, no significant impact is expected if it does occur on

site.

Yakka Skink

Egernia rugosa V V

Inhabits dry open forests, woodlands and

rocky areas in the Brigalow Belt, where it

occurs in fallen timber, wood piles, uprooted

trees, deep rock crevices, deeply eroded

gullies or disused rabbit warrens (DSEWPAC,

2013).

Suitable habitat exists in the wooded areas of the Project

site. It was not observed during the survey. Pitfall trap lines

targeted small ground-dwelling fauna, including reptiles, and

funnel traps were used to capture various reptiles, including

medium-sized skinks. Recommended methods for the Yakka

Skink (including fauna transects, spotlighting and Elliott and

cage trapping) were also undertaken (DSEWPAC 2011b).

No significant impacts area expected on populations of this




Dunmall’s Snake

Furina dunmalli V V

Inhabits forests and woodlands on black

alluvial cracking clay and clay loams

dominated by Brigalow (Acacia harpophylla).

Preferred microhabitat includes fallen timber

and leaf litter and possibly cracks in clay soils

(DSEWPAC, 2013).

Unlikely to occur on the Project site as suitable Brigalow

habitat has been cleared and it is extremely uncommon.

Brigalow regrowth on the site is unlikely to provide suitable

habitat due to its structure and composition. The species was

not recorded on the Project site during field surveys despite

targeted survey methods. Significant impacts on this species

are considered unlikely.


Species



Act

NC

Act

Glossy Black-cockatoo

Calyptorhynchus lathami NL V

Found from the Queensland central coast to

eastern Victoria. In Queensland most

individuals are found east of the Great

Dividing Range. It inhabits woodland, open

woodland, coastal lowlands, offshore islands

and residential areas where She-oaks are

present. Feeds almost exclusively on She-

oak seeds, particularly Allocasuarina littoralis

and A. torulosa (Curtis and Dennis, 2012).


suitable feed trees.

Golden-tailed Gecko

Strophurus taenicauda NL NT

Occurs from the Darling Downs to the coastal

regions of central and south-eastern

Queensland. Occurs in dry sclerophyll forests

and Eucalypt and Cypress woodlands

(Cogger, 2000).


areas of site. It was not observed during the survey. No





Square-tailed Kite

Lophoictinia isura NL NT

Found throughout most of Australia, except

for the arid interior. This species is found in a

range of habitats including woodlands

dominated by Eucalypts and Pandanus,

gallery forests and heaths (Pizzey and Knight,

2007).


areas and along Phillips Creek. It was not observed during

the survey. It is listed as a ‘High Mobility Taxon’. Given its

mobility and the continued existence of suitable habitat

outside the mine footprint and in the surrounding area, no

significant impact is expected.

Black-chinned Honeyeater

Melithreptus gularis NL NT

Found in all mainland Australian states.

Occurs in open Eucalypt forests and

woodlands in a range of climatic zones. They

prefer forests and woodlands with box and

ironbark Eucalypts, and are often found in

riparian areas (Pizzey and Knight, 2007).

Suitable habitat exists on site and throughout the region in

which the Project is located. This species has an extremely

large range. Surveys failed to locate this species on site.

Given the large range of this species, its high mobility and

the existence of suitable alternative habitat, development of

the Project site is unlikely to have any significant impact on

the species.


Species



Act

NC

Act

Turquoise Parrot

Neophema pulchella NL NT

Open woodland with dead trees, permanent

water and forested hillsides, also pastures

and roadsides. Known from south-east

Australia, south of Gayndah (Pizzey and

Knight, 2007).

Unlikely to occur on site, as the Project site is located well

north of the current distribution of this species.

Rufous Owl (southern

subspecies)

Ninox rufa queenslandica

NL V

Found in coastal and upland north-east

Queensland. Inhabits rainforest and forests

and woodlands located near rainforest (Curtis

and Dennis, 2012).

Highly unlikely to occur on the Project site due to the

absence of rainforest habitat.

Koala

Phascolarctos cinereus V NL

Inhabits Eucalypt forests and woodlands on

the east coast of Australia (Curtis and Dennis,

2012).

Suitable habitat exists on site. One individual was observed

in sparse woodland in a paddock adjacent to the site access

road (outside the Project site). Suitable habitat for Koalas

occurs along Phillips Creek and in the large woodland in the

eastern area of site. The species has been observed in

similar habitat nearby, to the south east, of the Project site. If

Koalas do inhabit the site, their numbers are expected to be

low and their presence would only be sporadic. Given the

lack of habitat connectivity and the absence of koalas on the

site over the past 10 years, it is unlikely that potential koala

habitat on the site is of particular importance to the species.

Allan's Lerista

Lerista allanae E E

Found around Clermont in central

Queensland. Occurs in open grasslands on

plains with rich-brown surface soils, leaf litter

and scattered trees (Curtis and Dennis,

2012).

This species is extremely rare and thought to be sensitive to

land use changes that have occurred with the introduction of

grazing and pastoral activities to the Brigalow Belt (Curtis

and Dennis, 2012). Given the disturbed and artificial nature

of the grasslands on the Project site, it is unlikely that this

species inhabits the site.


Species



Act

NC

Act

Grey Snake

Hemiaspis damelii NL E

Prefers cracking flood-prone soils in the

Brigalow Belt. Inhabits clay floodplains with

grassland and open woodlands of Brigalow,

Belah and Poplar Box, usually near water

bodies (Curtis and Dennis, 2012).

A small amount of potential habitat for this species occurs on

the Project site around the central dam and the Poplar Box

woodland. The central dam habitat will be disturbed by

Project activities. Given that the habitat in this area is already

heavily disturbed by clearing and past grazing, it is unlikely to

form significant habitat for the species and no significant

impact is expected.

Pale Imperial Hairstreak

Jalmenus eubulus NL V

Inhabits central Queensland from Eungella to

the Darling Downs. Occurs in mature

Brigalow stands (Curtis and Dennis, 2012).

Unlikely to occur on site due to the absence of suitable

mature Brigalow habitat.

Death Adder

Acanthophis antarcticus NL NT

Found throughout Queensland in a variety of

habitats (Wilson, 2005). Preferred

microhabitat includes fallen timber and leaf

litter and grass tussocks.

Suitable habitat for this species occurs on the Project site in

woodland areas. It was not observed during the survey. No




the mining area.

Striped-tailed Delma

Delma labialis NL V

Inhabits coastal sandy dunes and rocky hill

slopes in coastal ranges and flats (Curtis and

Dennis, 2012).

Unlikely to occur on the Project site due to lack of suitable

habitat.

Collared Delma

Delma torquata V V

Known mainly from south-east Queensland,

with recent records from the Blackdown

Tablelands and Roma. Mainly inhabits

ridgelines vegetated with dry open woodland,

also Eucalyptus tereticornis and Brigalow

woodlands. Shelters under loose rocks

(Curtis and Dennis, 2012).

Unlikely to occur on the Project site due to lack of suitable

habitat. This was confirmed during surveys, which did not

record any occurrences of evidence of this species, despite

the use of targeted methods.


Species



Act

NC

Act

Radjah Shelduck Tadorna radjah

NL NT

Occurs in coastal tropical northern Australia.

Inhabits swamps, coastal creeks, shallow

river margins, estuaries, lagoons and

wetlands (Pizzey and Knight, 2007).

Unlikely to occur on site, as this is a coastal species and is

not known to occur in the Project region.

Fitzroy River Turtle Rheodytes leukops

V V

Found in flowing streams and permanent

waterbodies in the Fitzroy, Connors, Dawson,

Isaac and Mackenzie Rivers. In the dry

season it may be found in large slow-flowing

pools and non-flowing permanent water

holes.

Unlikely to occur on the Project site as the creek system is

ephemeral and only flows briefly after heavy rainfall. There is

no suitable habitat available on site. The species was not

detected during aquatic surveys.

Saltwater Crocodile Crocodylus porosus

NL V

Reefs, coastal and inland waterways in

central and northern Queensland (Curtis and

Dennis, 2012).

Highly unlikely to occur on the Project site, due to the

absence of suitable habitat. The Project site is also located

west of the current distribution of this species.

Rough Collared Frog Cyclorana verrucosa

NL NT

Occurs near seasonal ponds, creeks, and

claypans in open country in southern

Queensland and northern New South Wales

(Tyler and Knight, 2011).

Unlikely to occur on site, as the Project site is located far

north of the species’ northern distribution limit.

Painted Snipe Rostratula australis

E, Ma, Mi

V

Found in shallow inland wetlands, either

freshwater or brackish, that are either

permanently or temporarily filled, throughout

many parts of Australia (DSEWPAC, 2013).

May occur on the Project site in wetland areas. This species

is a ‘High Mobility Conservation Significant Taxon’ which

exists as a single population across the Australian continent.

The Project is unlikely to have a significant impact on this

species due to its high mobility and the continued existence

of suitable habitat on and around the Project site following

Project construction. Targeted bird surveys and searches for

threatened species were conducted during the survey. Eight

hours of diurnal bird surveys were conducted and

opportunistic searches were conducted in areas containing

habitat likely to support threatened birds.


Species



Act

NC

Act

Red-tailed Tropicbird Phaethon rubricauda

NL V Restricted to marine environments. Breeds on

offshore islands (Pizzey and Knight, 2007).

Highly unlikely to occur on the Project site due to lack of

suitable marine habitat.

Migratory and Marine Species

White-throated Needletail

Hirundapus caudacutus Mi, Ma NL

Widespread in eastern and south-eastern

Australia. Occurs over most types of habitat,

most often above wooded areas, including

open forest and rainforest, but they are less

commonly recorded flying above woodland

(DSEWPAC, 2013). Known to appear and

forage for aerial insects over any habitat.

May potentially occur over the Project site but none were

observed during the survey period. Development on site is

unlikely to affect this species as it is strictly aerial, remaining

high above ground.

Barn Swallow

Hirundo rustica Mi, Ma NL

Widespread in the northern hemisphere and

winters in the southern hemisphere. It

inhabits open country, agricultural land and

urban areas (Pizzey and Knight, 2007).

May potentially occur over the Project site but none were

observed during the survey period. Development on site is

unlikely to affect this species as it is strictly aerial, remaining

high above ground.

Black-faced Monarch

Monarcha melanopsis Mi, Ma NL

Found in coastal eastern Australia, east of

the Great Dividing Range. Inhabits rainforest,

Eucalypt forest and woodlands, and coastal

scrub (Pizzey and Knight, 2007).

Unlikely to occur on site, as the Project site is located outside

its main distribution area and does not contain its preferred

habitat.

Spectacled Monarch

Monarcha trivirgatus Mi, Ma NL

Found in coastal north-east and eastern

Australia, most abundant in the wet tropics.

Inhabits rainforests, thickly wooded gullies

and waterside vegetation (Pizzey and Knight,

2007).

Unlikely to occur on site, as the Project site is located outside

its main distribution area and does not contain its preferred

habitat.

Satin Flycatcher

Myiagra cyanoleuca Mi, Ma NL

Widespread but scattered in eastern

Queensland, being recorded on passage on a

few islands in the western Torres Strait. They

are mainly recorded in Eucalypt forests,

especially wet sclerophyll forest (DSEWPAC,

2013).


suitable habitat.


Species



Act

NC

Act

Rufous Fantail

Rhipidura rufifrons Mi, Ma NL

Occurs in coastal and near coastal districts of

northern and eastern Australia in wet

sclerophyll forests and rainforests

(DSEWPAC, 2013).


suitable habitat.

Fork-tailed Swift

Apus pacificus Mi, Ma NL

Known to forage over any habitat. Strictly

aerial. A summer visitor to Australia (Pizzey &

Knight, 2006).

Potentially suitable habitat for this species occurs across the

Project site and throughout the region. This species is

unlikely to be impacted by Project development as it rarely

comes into contact with the ground or vegetation.

Magpie Goose

Anseranas semipalmata Ma NL

The Magpie Goose occupies large seasonal

wetlands and well-vegetated dams with

rushes and sedges; wet grasslands and

floodplains (Pizzey & Knight, 2006).

Suitable habitat for this species occurs on the Project site.

Given that this species is listed as marine and the Project

does not occur at its distributional range the Project is not

likely to have a significant impact on the species.

Latham’s Snipe

Gallinago hardwickii Mi, Ma NL

This species occurs in association with areas

of soft wet ground or shallow water with

tussocks, seepage areas below dams,

irrigated areas, scrub or open woodland from

sea level to alpine bogs over 2000 m,

saltmarshes and mangrove fringes (Pizzey &

Knight, 2006).

The Project site provides areas of suitable habitat for this

species. Suitable habitat for this species occurs throughout

the region and as such the Project is not likely to impact on

the species.

Eastern Osprey

Pandion haliaetus Ma NL

This species predominantly occupies coastal

and littoral habitats as well as terrestrial

wetlands of tropical and temperate Australia

and offshore islands (DSEWPAC, 2013).

Eastern Ospreys require extensive areas of

open fresh, brackish or saline water for

foraging (Marchant & Higgins, 1993).

The Project site potentially provides suitable foraging habitat

for individuals that are passing through the region. Given that

this species prefers coastal areas and offshore islands, the

Project site is considered unlikely to support a population of

this species.

NL – Not listed


NT – Near Threatened


V – Vulnerable

E – Endangered

Mi – Migratory


7.0 ENVIRONMENTAL VALUES, POTENTIAL IMPACTS AND RECOMMENDED MITIGATION AND MANAGEMENT STRATEGIES

7.1 SUMMARY OF ENVIRONMENTAL VALUES

The following summarises environmental values that have been identified for the Project site

(described in Section 6):

Phillips Creek and the Poplar Gum woodland in the east of the site form a corridor that is of

limited bioregional significance;

Woodland areas on the Project site provide habitat for a range of flora and fauna species;

Lake Vermont and the two dams on the Project site provide drinking water for terrestrial fauna

and habitat for a range of aquatic species;

Suitable habitat of one vulnerable (NC Act, EPBC Act) and three near threatened (NC Act)

bird species;

Suitable habitat for four migratory bird species;

Stands of vegetation that are listed as Of Concern (VM Act); and

Areas of highly degraded Regrowth which is largely dominated by Brigalow.

Effective mitigation strategies will minimise Project impacts on these values.

7.2 POTENTIAL IMPACTS

Development of the Project will require the clearing of vegetation from a small portion of Phillips

Creek, the central dam area and the Poplar Gum woodland. These areas will then be mined. Areas of

remnant vegetation and regrowth vegetation will be removed for Project development.

Project development will decrease the area of remnant vegetation on the Project site. Removal of

vegetation reduces flora species diversity and removes fauna habitat. It may also cause erosion of the

exposed top soil and increased edge effects in the remaining vegetation.

Construction and operational activities may increase the risk of weed introduction and spread on the

Project site. Earth moving activities and vehicle movement can spread weed seeds into and around

the Project site. This has the potential to cause degradation of the remaining vegetation communities

on site.

Mining operations will partially disrupt the connectivity of the habitat corridor along Phillips Creek.

However, revegetation of the creek diversion area will restore this connectivity. Clearing of the

woodland in the east of site will slightly impact the outer extent of a large bioregional corridor.

Areas of fauna habitat at the central dam, wetland on Phillips Creek and Lake Vermont may be

cleared as part of Project development. This may reduce the diversity and abundance of fauna

species inhabiting the Project site. Birds of conservation significance are known to utilise this habitat. It

is likely that mobile fauna will use alternate suitable wetland habitat which exists in the floodplain of


the Isaac River. Project development will also remove microhabitat such as tree hollows, logs and leaf

litter.

Project activities may lead to increased fauna injuries and mortality. This risk is particularly high during

the clearing operations. Construction of roads and increased vehicle movements will increase the risk

of collisions with fauna. Mine voids also have the potential to harm ground-dwelling fauna should they

attempt to access these areas.

Project activities will remove some suitable habitat for the southern Squatter Pigeon and may also

inadvertently cause destruction of their nests. This impact is not considered significant as suitable

habitat will continue to remain in the undisturbed pasture areas of the Project site and adjacent lands.

Development of the Project site will involve the construction of roads, tracks, water storages and

waste disposal areas. Human activities on the Project site will introduce additional food sources for

fauna such as food scraps. This will increase the suitability of the Project site to feral animals, and

may lead to an increase in their numbers on the Project site. Increased pest numbers will result in

increased predation upon and competition with native fauna, which may lead to further reductions in

native populations.

7.3 MITIGATION AND MANAGEMENT STRATEGIES

7.3.1 FLORA

A range of mitigation measures are recommended to minimise Project impacts on the vegetation

communities on the Project site. The clearing footprint should be limited to areas required for mining

and associated activities. Site access roads should follow existing tracks or be established through

non-remnant areas where possible.

Erosion controls such as water management infrastructure should be constructed consistent with other

water management infrastructure at Lake Vermont Mine. This will minimise the loss of topsoil

associated with vegetation clearing. The topsoil in the cleared area should be removed and stockpiled

for use in site rehabilitation.

The creek diversion area should be planted with native species that occur in Community 3 (RE

11.3.25) to replace the vegetation removed from the diverted section of the creek and restore the

connectivity of the vegetation corridor along Phillips Creek. Refer to Appendix B for appropriate

species to use in the planting works.

Progressive rehabilitation of the mine area should be undertaken over the life of the mine. Mined

areas should be landscaped and covered with the stockpiled topsoil. The site should be replanted with

native or pasture species that occurred in the area prior to clearing (refer to Appendix B).

The risk of uncontrolled fires will be minimised by the provision of fire extinguishers in all mining plant

and buildings and staff training (including staff trained in emergency response). All chemicals must be

stored and handled in appropriate areas in accordance with the requirements of the Material Data

Safety Sheet.

A Rehabilitation Management and Monitoring Plan should be developed to provide for the

identification, reporting, management and control of weed species in rehabilitated areas.

A staff training and awareness program should be implemented that identifies the key environmental

values of the site and provides procedures and best practice strategies for environmental protection.


7.3.2 FAUNA

Project impacts on native fauna can be minimised by the implementation of appropriate mitigation and

management measures.

Clearing should be conducted in a staged manner to enable fauna to move out of the disturbance area

into adjacent habitat.

Vehicle speeds on the Project site will be restricted. This will minimise the risk of collisions with native

fauna. Where it is possible and safe to do so, injured or orphaned animals should be taken to a local

wildlife carer or vet to receive treatment.

Rehabilitation activities should aim to recreate fauna habitat values of the existing site. Hazardous

areas such as mine voids and contaminated water storages should be managed in accordance with

the site’s Water Management Plan. The creation of shallow open water storages should be avoided

where possible to minimise Cane Toad numbers.

A staff training and awareness program should be implemented that identifies the key environmental

values of the site and provides procedures and best practice strategies for environmental protection.


8.0 REFERENCES

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Assessment.

AustralAsian Resource Consultants (2012). Lake Vermont Western Extension Terrestrial Flora and

Fauna Report.

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server/data/0e0f0504-0103-430d-8004

060d07080d04/media/Html/taxon/Desmodium_macrocarpum.htm.

Bean, A.R. (2012). Solanum species of eastern and northern Australia. http://delta-intkey.com.

BirdLife International (2013). IUCN Red List for birds. Accessed 15th November 2013 at

http://www.birdlife.org.

Bowen Basin Coal (2004). Lake Vermont Environmental Impact Statement.

Churchill, S. (2010). Australian Bats, Reed New Holland, Sydney.

Cogger, H.G. (2000). Reptiles and Amphibians of Australia. Reed New Holland, Sydney.

Commonwealth of Australia (2011). The Bureau of Meteorology, Queensland. Accessed 26th July

2013 at http://www.bom.gov.au.

Curtis, L.K., Dennis, A.J., McDonald, K.R., Kyne, P.M and Debus, S.J.S. (2012). Queensland’s

Threatened Animals. CSIRO Publishing, Collingwood.

Department of Sustainability, Environment, Water, Population and Communities (2013). Species

Profile and Threats Database. http://www.environment.gov.au/sprat.

Department of Sustainability, Environment, Water, Population and Communities (2011a). Environment

Protection and Biodiversity Conservation Act 1999: Protected Matters Search Tool.

http://www.environment.gov.au/erin/ert/epbc/index.html.

Department of Sustainability, Environment, Water, Population and Communities (2011b), Survey

guidelines for Australia’s threatened reptiles,

http://www.environment.gov.au/system/files/resources/eba674a5-b220-4ef1-9f3a-

b9ff3f08a959/files/survey-guidelines-reptiles.pdf

Department of Sustainability, Environment, Water, Population and Communities (2003). Nationally

threatened species and ecological communities – Brigalow Regrowth and the EPBC Act.

Duncan, A., Baker, G.B. and Montgomery, N. (1999). The Action Plan for Australian Bats.

Environment Australia, Canberra.

Environmental Protection and Biodiversity Conservation Act 1999.

Flora of Australia Online (2013). Macropteranthes fitzalanii. http://www.anbg.gov.au/abrs/online-

resources/flora/stddisplay.xsql?pnid=47170.

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http://delta-intkey.com/

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http://www.environment.gov.au/system/files/resources/eba674a5-b220-4ef1-9f3a-b9ff3f08a959/files/survey-guidelines-reptiles.pdf

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http://www.anbg.gov.au/abrs/online-resources/flora/stddisplay.xsql?pnid=47170


Garnett. S., Szabo, J. and Dutson, G. (2010) The Action Plan for Australian Birds 2010. CSIRO

Publishing, Canberra.

Land Protection (Pest and Stock Route Management) Act 2002.

Marchant, S. and Higgins, P. J. (eds) (1993). Handbook of Australian, New Zealand and Antarctic

Birds. Oxford University Press, Melbourne.

Menkhorst, P. and Knight, F (2011). A Field Guide to the Mammals of Australia, Oxford University

Press.

Nature Conservation Act 1992.

Nature Conservation (Wildlife) Regulation 2006.

Neldner, V.J., Wilson, B.A., Thompson, E.J. and Dillewaard, H.A. (2012). Methodology for Survey and

Mapping of Regional Ecosystems and Vegetation Communities in Queensland. Version 3.2. Updated

August 2012. Queensland Herbarium, Queensland Department of Science, Information Technology,

Innovation and the Arts, Brisbane.

New South Wales National Parks and Wildlife Service (2001). Threatened Species Survey and

Assessment: Guidelines for Developments and Activities. Draft for Comment. Prepared by the NSW

National Parks and Wildlife Service and SMEC Australia.

Pizzey, G. and Knight, F (2007). The Field Guide to the Birds of Australia, HarperCollins Publishers,

Pty, Ltd.

SGAP (2007). Society for Growing Australian Plants (Queensland Region) Inc. Newsletter No. 67.

http://www.sgapcairns.org.au/Newsletters/67_May07.pdf.

The State of Queensland Department of Environment and Heritage Protection (2013). Regional

Ecosystems Descriptions Database (REDD).

http://www.ehp.qld.gov.au/ecosystems/biodiversity/regional-ecosystems/index.php.

The State of Queensland Department of Environment and Heritage Protection (2013). Wetland Info –

Eleocharis blakeana.

http://wetlandinfo.derm.qld.gov.au/wetlands/factsfigures/FloraAndFauna/Species/eleocharis-

blakeana.html.


Solanum adenophorum.

http://wetlandinfo.derm.qld.gov.au/wetlands/factsfigures/FloraAndFauna/Species/solanum-

adenophorum.html.

The State of Queensland Department of Environment and Heritage Protection (2012) Pre-clearing and

remnant regional ecosystem dataset. Brigalow Belt North.


Eucalyptus raveretiana.

http://wetlandinfo.ehp.qld.gov.au/wetlands/factsfigures/FloraAndFauna/Species/eucalyptus-

raveretiana.html.

http://www.sgapcairns.org.au/Newsletters/67_May07.pdf

http://www.ehp.qld.gov.au/ecosystems/biodiversity/regional-ecosystems/index.php

http://wetlandinfo.derm.qld.gov.au/wetlands/factsfigures/FloraAndFauna/Species/eleocharis-blakeana.html

http://wetlandinfo.derm.qld.gov.au/wetlands/factsfigures/FloraAndFauna/Species/eleocharis-blakeana.html

http://wetlandinfo.derm.qld.gov.au/wetlands/factsfigures/FloraAndFauna/Species/solanum-adenophorum.html

http://wetlandinfo.derm.qld.gov.au/wetlands/factsfigures/FloraAndFauna/Species/solanum-adenophorum.html

http://wetlandinfo.ehp.qld.gov.au/wetlands/factsfigures/FloraAndFauna/Species/eucalyptus-raveretiana.html

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The State of Queensland Department of Environment and Heritage Protection (2010). Fitzroy Natural

Resource Management Region Back on Track Actions for Biodiversity, Department of Environment

and Heritage Protection, Brisbane.

The State of Queensland Department of Science, Information Technology, Innovation and the Arts

(2012). Terrestrial Vertebrate Fauna Survey Guidelines for Queensland.

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Mapping Methodology. Environmental Protection Agency. Biodiversity Planning Unit, Biodiversity

Branch. Version 2.1 July 2002.

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http://www.qmdc.org.au/publications/download/49/.

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(Finger Panic Grass). http://www.environment.gov.au/biodiversity/threatened/species/pubs/12768-

conservation-advice.pdf.

Vegetation Management Act 1999.

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http://www.qmdc.org.au/publications/download/49/

http://www.environment.gov.au/biodiversity/threatened/species/pubs/12768-conservation-advice.pdf

http://www.environment.gov.au/biodiversity/threatened/species/pubs/12768-conservation-advice.pdf

http://www.worldwidewattle.com/speciesgallery/spania.php

Flora and Fauna Report A June 2014

Appendix A Database Searches

Flora and Fauna Report B June 2014

Appendix B Flora Species List

Flora and Fauna Report C June 2014

Appendix C Assessment of Likelihood of Occurrence of Threatened Flora Species on the Project Site


Species EPBC Act

Status

NC Act

Status Habitat Impact Assessment

Acacia arbiana NL NT

Confined to the summits of peaks of the Peak Range, east of

Clermont, Queensland. Recorded from trachyte outcrops in heath-like

vegetation.

Unlikely to occur on the Project site due to

lack of suitable habitat.

Acacia spania NL NT Grows in stands in the shrub layer of open Eucalyptus woodlands on

shallow red soils (World Wide Wattle, 2009).


lack of suitable soil type.

Aristida annua V V This species is restricted to Eucalypt woodland on black clay and

basalt soils (DSEWPAC, 2013).


the lack of suitable soil types on the site.

Bertya pedicellata NL NT

Restricted to central Queensland on iron stone jump-ups and

associated with communities dominated by Corymbia trachyphloia,

Acacia catenulata, A. curvinervia and/or A. shirleyi.



Ooline

Cadellia pentastylis V V

Occurs in a range of vegetation types including semi-evergreen vine

thicket, Brigalow-Belah, Poplar Box and Bendee communities

(DSEWPAC, 2013). Ooline often occurs on the edges of sandstone

and basalt escarpments, 200 to 500 m above sea level. Ooline grows

on the moderately fertile soils preferred for agriculture and pasture

development (DSEWPAC, 2013).



Capparis humistrata NL E

Grows in Eucalypt woodland with a shrubby understorey, on stony

hard ridges and serpentinite soil. It also occurs on the margins of

Brigalow forest on sandy soil.



Cerbera dumicola NL NT

Primarily found in Lancewood communities and semi-evergreen vine

thickets in coastal and sub-coastal Central Queensland (SGAP,

2007).



Cycas megacarpa E E

Grows in a wide range of woodland communities in south-east

Queensland, as far north as Bouldercombe. Often grows on

undulating to hilly terrain at an altitude of 40 – 680 m. The soil is

typically a well-draining rocky or shallow clay, clay/loam (DSEWPAC,

2013).

Unlikely to occur on the Project site as it is

located outside the known distribution of

this species. The site terrain and soils are

not very suitable for this species.


Species EPBC Act

Status

NC Act


Cycas ophiolitica E E

Grows on hills and slopes in open grassy forests on red clay soils and

shallow, stony, infertile soils on sandstone and serpentinite

(DSEWPAC, 2013).



Daviesia discolor V V

Known from the Blackdown Tableland, Mount Walsh and Carnarvon

National Park in Queensland. Occurs on sandy soils in a variety of

woodlands, in conjunction with species such as Eucalyptus

sphaerocarpa, E. nigra, E. acmenoides, Corymbia trachyphloia and

Angophora sp.

Unlikely to occur on the Project site as it is

not known from the local area and little

suitable habitat is available on site.

King Blue-grass

Dichanthium

queenslandicum

E V

This species occurs on black cracking clay in tussock grasslands

mainly in association with other species of Bluegrasses. It is mostly

confined to the natural Bluegrass grasslands of central and southern

Queensland (DSEWPAC, 2013).



Bluegrass

Dichanthium setosum V LC

Occurs in grassy woodland and open forests in inland Australia.

Associated with heavy basaltic black soils and stony red-brown hard-

setting loam with clay subsoil and is found in moderately disturbed

areas such as cleared woodland, grassy roadside remnants, grazed

land and highly disturbed pasture (DSEWPAC, 2013).

Suitable habitat for this species occurs on

site in cleared pasture areas. Targeted

searches were unable to identify this

species on the Project site. Targeted

survey techniques included the ‘Random

Meander’ survey, which involves

traversing areas of suitable habitat along

a meandering route while searching for

the flora species of interest.

Finger Panic Grass

Digitaria porrecta NL NT

Grows on dark, fine-textured soils in grasslands, undulating

woodlands and open forests including Eucalyptus tereticornis and

E.populnea drainage lines. It may also occur in disturbed habitats

(TSSC, 2008).

Suitable habitat for this species exists on

the Project site in cleared pasture areas.

Targeted searches were unable to identify

this species on the Project site.


Species EPBC Act

Status

NC Act


Eucalyptus raveretiana V V

Occurs on alluvial soils, loams, light clays or cracking clays in open

forests and woodlands along watercourses and occasionally on river

flats (EHP, 2012).

Suitable habitat occurs on the Project site

along the banks of Phillips Creek.


this species on the Project site. Targeted

survey techniques included the ‘Random

Meander’ survey, which involves

traversing areas of suitable habitat along

a meandering route while searching for

the flora species of interest.

Macropteranthes

fitzalanii NL NT

Occurs in rainforest, semi-evergreen vine thicket and Melalueca

swamps (Flora of Australia Online, 2013).



Smooth-barked

Bonewood

Macropteranthes

leiocaulis

NL NT

Occurs in deciduous vine thickets, semi-evergreen vine thickets and

araucarian microphyll vine forests on red ferrosols or sandstone talus.



Omphalea celata V V

Known from only three sites in central east Queensland – near

Eungella, Bowen and Nebo. Grows in vine thickets in gorges and

gullies (DSEWPAC, 2013).

Unlikely to occur on the Project site, due

to lack of suitable habitat.

Paspalidium

scabrifolium NL NT

Inhabits Eucalypt woodlands on the lower and mid slopes of hills and

ranges on volcanic derived soils.



Lesser Swamp-orchid

Phaius australis E E

Occurs in southern Queensland and northern New South Wales.

Commonly associated with coastal wet heath/sedgeland wetlands,

swampy grassland or swampy forest. Associated with rainforest

elements (DSEWPAC, 2013).



Native Moth Orchid

Phalaenopsis

rosenstromii

E E

Occurs in north-east Queensland from the Iron Ranges in the north as

far south as the Paluma Ranges. Grows on trees and occasionally

rocks, in humid, airy situations on sheltered slopes and in gullies, in

deep gorges, close to streams in rainforests (DSEWPAC, 2013).

Highly unlikely to occur on the Project site

due to lack of suitable habitat.


Species EPBC Act

Status

NC Act


Small-leaved

Malletwood

Rhodamnia

pauciovulata

NL NT

Dry rainforest and vine-thickets in coastal and near coastal areas. Unlikely to occur on the Project site due to


Quassia

Samadera bidwillii V V

Known from coastal and near coastal areas in central Queensland.

Commonly found in rainforest, but can also occur in open forest and

woodland (DSEWPAC, 2013).

Unlikely to occur on the Project site as

there is little suitable habitat available and

the site is located far west of its known

distribution.

Solanum adenophorum NL E Occurs mostly in undulating Brigalow woodlands (EHP, 2013). Unlikely to occur on the Project site due to


Solanum elachophyllum NL E Occurs in cracking clay soils associated with Brigalow and semi-

evergreen vine thicket (Bean, 2012).



Siah's Backbone

Streblus pendulinus E NL

Found in warmer rainforests, chiefly along watercourses (DSEWPAC,

2013).

Highly unlikely to occur on the Project site

due to lack of suitable habitat.

Peak Downs Daisy

Trioncinia patens NL E

Occurs in grasslands on basalt downs and also on dark brown or

black cracking clay soils in the Peak Range area.

Potential habitat for this species exists in

cleared pasture areas on the Project site.


this species on the Project site.

Belyando Cobblers Peg

Trioncinia retroflexa NL E

Restricted to Bluegrass grasslands on basalt soils in central

Queensland.



LC – Least Concern NL – Not listed NT – Near Threatened V – Vulnerable E – Endangered

Flora and Fauna Report D June 2014

Appendix D Fauna Species List

Scientific Name Common Name EPBC NCA OPP FS1 FS2 FS3 FS4 FS5 FS6 FS7 FS8

AMPHIBIANS Limnodynastes salmini Salmon-striped Frog NL LC x x x x

AMPHIBIANS Limnodynastes tasmaniensis Spotted Marsh Frog NL LC x x x x

AMPHIBIANS Limnodynastes terreginae Scarlet sided Pobblebonk NL LC x

AMPHIBIANS Litoria inermis Bumpy Rocketfrog NL LC x

AMPHIBIANS Litoria rubella Desert Treefrog NL LC x

AMPHIBIANS Rhinella marina Cane Toad I I x x x x

BIRDS Accipter cirrocephalus Collared Sparrowhawk NL LC x

BIRDS Accipter fasciatus Brown Goshawk Ma LC x x x

BIRDS Acrocephalus australis Australian Reed-Warbler NL LC x x x

BIRDS Anas gracilis Grey Teal NL LC x x x x

BIRDS Anas rhynchotis Australasian Shoveler NL LC x x

BIRDS Anas superciliosa Pacific Black Duck NL LC x x x x

BIRDS Anhinga novaehollandiae Australasian Darter NL LC x x x x

BIRDS Anthus novaeseelandiae Australasian Pipit Ma LC x

BIRDS Aprosmictus erythropterus Red-winged Parrot NL LC x x x x

BIRDS Aquila audax Wedge-tailed Eagle NL LC x x x x

BIRDS Ardea ibis Cattle Egret Mi, Ma LC x x

BIRDS Ardea intermedia Intermediate Egret Ma LC x x x

BIRDS Ardea modesta Eastern Great Egret Mi, Ma LC x x x x x

BIRDS Ardea pacifica White-necked Heron NL LC x x x

BIRDS Ardeotis australis Australian Bustard NL LC x

BIRDS Artamus leucorynchus White-breasted Woodswallow NL LC x x

BIRDS Artamus personatus Masked Woodswallow NL LC x

BIRDS Artamus superciliosus White-browed Woodswallow NL LC x

BIRDS Aviceda subcristata Pacific Baza NL LC x x

BIRDS Aythya australis Hardhead NL LC x x x x

BIRDS Cacatua galerita Sulphur-crested Cockatoo NL LC x x x x x x

BIRDS Cacatua sanguinea Little Corella NL LC x x

BIRDS Centropus phasianinus Pheasant Coucal NL LC x x x x

BIRDS Chenonetta jubata Australian Wood Duck NL LC x x x x

BIRDS Chlamydera maculata Spotted Bowerbird NL LC x x

BIRDS Circus approximans Swamp Harrier Ma LC x x x

BIRDS Circus assimilis Spotted Harrier NL LC x x

BIRDS Cisticola exilis Golden-headed Cisticola NL LC x x x

BIRDS Coracina novaehollandiae Black-faced Cuckoo-shrike Ma LC x x x x

BIRDS Corvus orru Torresian Crow NL LC x x x x x x x x x

BIRDS Coturnix ypsilophora Brown Quail NL LC x x x

BIRDS Cracticus nigrogularis Pied Butcherbird NL LC x x x x x x x x x

BIRDS Cracticus tibicen Australian Magpie NL LC x x x x x x x x

BIRDS Cracticus torquatus Grey Butcherbird NL LC x x x x x

BIRDS Cygnus atratus Black Swan NL LC x x x

BIRDS Dacelo leachii Blue-winged Kookaburra NL LC x x x

BIRDS Dacelo novaeguineae Laughing Kookaburra NL LC x

BIRDS Daphoenositta chrysoptera Varied Sittella NL LC x

BIRDS Dendrocygna arcuata Wandering Whistling-Duck Ma LC x x

BIRDS Dendrocygna eytoni Plumed Whistling Duck NL LC x x x

BIRDS Dicaeum hirundinaceum Mistletoebird NL LC x

BIRDS Dicrurus bracteatus Spangled Drongo Ma LC x

BIRDS Dromaius novaehollandiae Emu NL LC x x

BIRDS Egretta garzetta Little Egret Ma LC x x

BIRDS Egretta novaehollandiae White-faced Heron NL LC x x x x

BIRDS Elanus axillaris Black-shouldered Kite NL LC x

BIRDS Elseyornis melanops Black-fronted Dotterel NL LC x x

BIRDS Entomyzon cyanotis Blue-faced Honeyeater NL LC x x x x

BIRDS Eolophus roseicapilla Galah NL LC x x x x x x x

BIRDS Ephippiorhynchus asiaticus Black-necked Stork NL NT x x x

BIRDS Erythrogonys cinctus Red-kneed Dotterel NL LC x x x x

BIRDS Falco berigora Brown Falcon NL LC x x x

BIRDS Falco cenchroides Nankeen Kestrel Ma LC x x

BIRDS Falco longipennis Australian Hobby NL LC x x

BIRDS Fulica atra Eurasian Coot NL LC x x x

BIRDS Gallinula tenebrosa Dusky Moorhen NL LC x x x

BIRDS Gallinula ventralis Black-tailed Native Hen NL LC x x x

BIRDS Geopelia placida Peaceful Dove NL LC x x

BIRDS Geophaps scripta scripta Squatter Pigeon (southern) V V x x x

BIRDS Gerygone olivacea White-throated Gerygone NL LC x x x

BIRDS Grallina cyanoleuca Magpie-lark Ma LC x x x x x x

BIRDS Grus rubicunda Brolga NL LC x x x

BIRDS Haliaeetus leucogaster White-bellied Sea-Eagle Mi, Ma LC x x

BIRDS Haliastur sphenurus Whistling Kite Ma LC x x x x x x

BIRDS Himantopus himantopus Black-winged Stilt Ma LC x x x

BIRDS Hirundo neoxena Welcome Swallow Ma LC x

BIRDS Hydroprogne caspia Caspian Tern Ma LC x x

BIRDS Irediparra gallinacea Comb-crested Jacana NL LC x x x

BIRDS Lichenostomus virescens Singing Honeyeater NL LC x x x

BIRDS Lichmera indistincta Brown Honeyeater NL LC x x

BIRDS Malacorhynchus membranaceus Pink-eared Duck NL NT x x x x

BIRDS Malurus melanocephalus Red-backed Fairy-wren NL LC x x x

BIRDS Manorina flavigula Yellow-throated Miner NL LC x x x x x

BIRDS Manorina melanocephala Noisy Miner NL LC x x x x

BIRDS Megalurus gramineus Little Grassbird NL LC x x x

BIRDS Megalurus timoriesis Tawny Grassbird NL LC x x

BIRDS Melithreptus albogularis White-throated Honeyeater NL LC x x x

BIRDS Merops ornatus Rainbow Bee-eater Ma, Mi LC x x

BIRDS Melopsittacus undulatus Budgerigar NL LC x x x x

BIRDS Microcarbo melanoleucos Little Pied Cormorant NL LC x x x

BIRDS Milvus migrans Black Kite NL LC x x x x

BIRDS Mirafra javanica Horsfield's Bushlark NL LC x x

BIRDS Myiagra inquieta Restless Flycatcher NL LC x

BIRDS Neochmia modesta Plum-headed Finch NL LC x x x

BIRDS Nettapus coromandelianus Cotton Pygmy-goose NL NT x x

BIRDS Nettapus pulchellus Green Pygmy-goose Ma LC x x

BIRDS Ninox boobook Southern Boobook Ma LC x

BIRDS Nymphicus hollandicus Cockatiel NL LC x x x

BIRDS Ocyphaps lophotes Crested Pigeon NL LC x x x

BIRDS Oriolus sagittatus Olive-backed Oriole NL LC x x x x x

BIRDS Pachycephala rufiventris Rufous Whistler NL LC x x x x x x

BIRDS Pardalotus striatus Striated Pardalote NL LC x x x x x x x

BIRDS Pelecanus conspicillatus Australian Pelican Ma LC x x

BIRDS Petrochelidon ariel Fairy Martin NL LC x x x

BIRDS Petrochelidon nigricans Tree Martin Ma LC x x x x x x

BIRDS Phalacrocorax carbo Great Cormorant NL LC x x x

BIRDS Phalacrocorax sulcirostris Little Black Cormorant NL LC x x x

BIRDS Phalacrocorax varius Pied Cormorant NL LC x x

BIRDS Philemon corniculatus Noisy Friarbird NL LC x

BIRDS Platalea flavipes Yellow-billed Spoonbill NL LC x x

BIRDS Platalea regia Royal Spoonbill NL LC x x

BIRDS Platycercus adscitus Pale-headed Rosella NL LC x x x x x x

BIRDS Plectorhyncha lanceolata Striped Honeyeater NL LC x

BIRDS Podargus strigoides Tawny Frogmouth NL LC x x x

BIRDS Podiceps cristatus Great Crested Grebe NL LC x x x

BIRDS Pomatostomus temporalis Grey-crowned Babbler NL LC x x x x

BIRDS Porphyrio porphyrio Purple Swamphen NL LC x x

BIRDS Porzana pusilla Baillon's Crake Ma LC x x

BIRDS Rhipidura albiscapa Grey Fantail NL LC x x x x x

BIRDS Rhipidura leucophrys Willie Wagtail NL LC x x x x x

BIRDS Scythrops novaehollandiae Channel-billed Cuckoo Ma LC x

BIRDS Smicrornis brevirostris Weebill NL LC x x

BIRDS Sphecotheres vielloti Australasian Figbird NL LC x x x

BIRDS Strepera graculina Pied Currawong NL LC x x

BIRDS Stictonetta naevosa Freckled Duck NL NT x x x

BIRDS Struthidea cinerea Apostlebird NL LC x x x x

BIRDS Tachybaptus novaehollandiae Australasian Grebe NL LC x x x x

BIRDS Taeniopygia bichenovii Double-barred Finch NL LC x

BIRDS Taeniopygia guttata Zebra Finch NL LC x

BIRDS Threskiornis molucca Australian White Ibis Ma LC x x

BIRDS Threskiornis spinicollis Straw-necked Ibis Ma LC x x x x

BIRDS Trichoglossus haematodus Rainbow Lorikeet NL LC x x x x x

BIRDS Tyto alba Eastern Barn Owl NL LC x x x

BIRDS Vanellus miles Masked Lapwing NL LC x x x x x

MAMMALS Aepyprymnus rufescens Rufous Bettong NL LC x

MAMMALS Austronomus australis White-striped Freetail Bat NL LC x x

MAMMALS Bos taurus Cattle NL NL x x x x x

MAMMALS Canis lupus dingo Dingo I C2 x x x x

MAMMALS Chalinolobus gouldii Gould's Wattled Bat NL LC x x x

MAMMALS Chalinolobus morio Chocolate Wattled Bat NL LC x x x

MAMMALS Chalinolobus nigrogriseus Hoary Wattled Bat NL LC *

MAMMALS Chalinolobus picatus Little Pied Bat NL NT *

MAMMALS Equus caballus Horse NL NL x

MAMMALS Felis catus Feral Cat I C2 x

MAMMALS Hydromys chrysogaster Water Rat NL LC x x x

MAMMALS Isoodon macrourus Northern Brown Bandicoot NL LC x x x x x x

MAMMALS Macropus giganteus Eastern Grey Kangaroo NL LC x x x x

MAMMALS Miniopterus orianae oceanensis Eastern Bentwing Bat NL LC * * *

MAMMALS Mormopterus beccarii Beccari's Freetail Bat NL LC x x x

MAMMALS Mormopterus ridei Eastern Freetail Bat NL LC *

MAMMALS Nyctophilus geoffroy / N. gouldi Long-eared Bat NL LC x x x

MAMMALS Oryctolagus cuniculus Rabbit I C2 x

MAMMALS Petaurus breviceps Sugar Glider NL LC x

MAMMALS Saccolaimus flaviventris Yellow-Bellied Sheathtail Bat NL LC x x x

MAMMALS Scotorepens greyii / S. sanborni Broad-nosed Bat NL LC x *

MAMMALS Sus scrofa Feral Pig I C2 x x

MAMMALS Tachyglossus aculeatus Echidna NL LC x x

MAMMALS Trichosurus vulpecula Brush-tailed Possum NL LC x x x

MAMMALS Vespadelus baverstocki Inland Forest Bat NL LC * * *

REPTILES Carlia vivax Lively Rainbow Skink NL LC x

REPTILES Chelodina longicollis Eastern Snake-neck Turtle NL LC x

REPTILES Cryptoblepharus australis Inland Snake-eyed Skink NL LC x x x

REPTILES Cryptoblepharus pulcher Elegant Snake-eyed Skink NL LC x x x x

REPTILES Cryptophis boschmai Carpentaria Snake NL LC x

REPTILES Demansia psammophis Yellow-faced Whipsnake NL LC x x

REPTILES Dendrolaphis punctulata Green Tree Snake NL LC x

REPTILES Gehyra variegata Tree Dtella NL LC x x

REPTILES Heteronotia bynoei Bynoe' s Gecko NL LC x x

REPTILES Lygisaurus foliorum Shaded Litter Skink NL LC x

REPTILES Morethia taeniopleura Fire-tailed Skink NL LC x

REPTILES Pseudechis sp. Black Snake NL LC x

Flora and Fauna Report E June 2014

Appendix E Microbat Analysis Report

Microbat Call Identification Report

Prepared for (“Client”): AustralAsian Resource Consultants

Survey location/project name: Lake Vermont, Dysart

Survey dates: 14-17 May 2013

Client project reference:

Job no.: AARC1306

Report date: 29 June 2013

DISCLAIMER:

© Copyright – Balance! Environmental, ABN 75 795 804 356. This document and its content arecopyright and may not be copied, reproduced or distributed (in whole or part) without the prior writtenpermission of Balance! Environmental other than by the Client for the purposes authorised byBalance! Environmental (“Intended Purpose”). To the extent that the Intended Purpose requires thedisclosure of this document and/or its content to a third party, the Client must procure suchagreements, acknowledgements and undertakings as may be necessary to ensure that the third partydoes not copy, reproduce, or distribute this document and its content other than for the IntendedPurpose. This disclaimer does not limit any rights Balance! Environmental may have under theCopyright Act 1968 (Cwlth).

The Client acknowledges that the Final Report is intended for the sole use of the Client, and only to be

used for the Intended Purpose. Any representation or recommendation contained in the Final Report

is made only to the Client. Balance! Environmental will not be liable for any loss or damage

whatsoever arising from the use and/or reliance on the Final Report by any third party.

AARC1306_Dysart_14-17May2013_batcall analysis.docx29/06/2013 Page 2 of 6

Methods

Data receipt and processing

Bat calls were recorded using a Song Meter detector (Wildlife Acoustics, Concord MA, USA), which

saved data in Wildlife Acoustics’ compressed audio file format (WAC). Balance! Environmental

received a single SD card containing 104 WAC files recorded on the nights of 14th, 15

th, 16

thand 17

th

May 2013.

The WAC files were processed with Wildlife Acoustics’ Kaleidoscope Pro (Version1.1.13) to produce

bat call files in both zero-crossing analysis (ZC) and full-spectrum (WAV) formats. This process

yielded 286 ZC files and 504 WAV files across the four nights of survey; however, many of these files

contained only background noise (“false triggers”) or very weak and short duration bat calls that were

of no use for species identification.

Bat call identification

Bat species identification was undertaken in two phases:

Phase 1 – AnalookW (Corben 2009)

All ZC files were viewed and a subset of files containing representative samples of all call types

were selected for identification. Sonograms of representative calls were then compared with

those of reference calls from southern and central Queensland and/or with published call

descriptions (Reinhold et al. 2001; Pennay et al. 2004).

Phase 2 – Kaleidoscope Pro

Calls that could not be positively identified using the ZC data were also viewed in full-spectrum

format in an effort to obtain a more reliable species determination. This process was applied

particularly to emballonurid and molossid calls that are often similar in ZC format but which can

mostly be differentiated due to harmonic patterns in WAV versions of the calls.

Species' identification was also guided by considering their probability of occurrence based on general

distribution information (Churchill 2008; van Dyck & Strahan 2008) and/or database records obtained

from the Queensland Museum, the Atlas of Living Australia (http://www.ala.org.au) and Wildlife Online

(http://www.ehp.qld.gov.au/wildlife/wildlife-online/index.html)

Reporting standard

The format and content of this report follows Australasian Bat Society standards for the interpretation

and reporting of bat call data (Reardon 2003), available on-line at http://www.ausbats.org.au/.

Species nomenclature follows Churchill (2008).


Results & Discussion

Data quantity and quality

Time signals stored in the original WAC files indicate that the detector ran from sunset to sunrise on

each of the four survey nights; however, field notes provided by the client indicate that the detector

was dislodged from its original position on the night of 16th

May, which explains the low number of files

recorded that night compared with the other three nights (see Table 1).

Many of the recorded calls were of relatively short duration (<10 pulses) and often fragmented, which

resulted in low reliability of species identification.

Species recorded

At least eight and up to 14 bat species were recorded during this survey (see Table 1).

Five call types were positively identified to single species (Chalinolobus gouldii, C. morio,

Austronomus australis, Mormopterus beccarii and Saccolaimus flaviventris); and a further two types

were attributable to pairs of species that cannot be differentiated (Nyctophilus geoffroyi/N. gouldi and

Scotorepens greyii/S. sanborni). Numerous low-quality calls, some within the frequency ranges of the

above-listed species, could not be reliably identified and could have represented these or several

other species. The call characteristics and possibility of species involved in these undifferentiated

calls is discussed in the following section.

Table 1 Bat species recorded in the Lake Vermont study area, 14-17 May 2013.

♦ denotes species positively identified from call data.□ denotes species possibly present, but not reliably identified.

Survey Date: 14/05/2013 15/05/2013 16/05/2013 17/05/2013

Number of ZC files: 190 51 7 38

Number of WAV files: 353 85 19 47

Number of calls identified: 47 16 8 25

Chalinolobus gouldii ♦ ♦ ♦ ♦

Chalinolobus morio ♦ ♦ ♦ ♦

Chalinolobus nigrogriseus □

Chalinolobus picatus □

Nyctophilus geoffroyi/N. gouldi ♦ ♦ ♦ ♦

Scotorepens greyii / S. sanborni ♦ □ □

Vespadelus baverstocki □ □ □

Miniopterus orianae oceanensis □ □ □

Austronomus australis ♦ ♦

Mormopterus beccarii ♦ ♦ ♦ ♦

Mormopterus ridei □

Saccolaimus flaviventris ♦ ♦ ♦


Calls/species not reliably identified

Most calls were reliably attributed to known species, although several species that are likely to occur

in the area have similar call characteristics and are difficult to differentiate using call data. These are

discussed below.

Chalinolobus nigrogriseus

This species’ calls are very similar to those produced by Scotorepens greyii/S. sanborni, although it

can sometimes be differentiated on longer pulse duration, more angular slope change and flatter pulse

body. Of the three calls in the relevant frequency range (36-39 kHz), two (14th

May) had the shorter

duration, more curved pulses typical of Scotorepens spp, but the third (17th

May) had intermediate

pulse shape and could have been from any of these three species.

Chalinolobus picatus

Call frequency (39-42 kHz) also overlaps with S. greyii/S. sanborni, but C. picatus calls often exhibit

distinctive frequency alternation between adjacent pulses. A single, very low quality call (16th

May)

had weak evidence of this alternating pattern, but could have been from any of the three species.

Vespadelus baverstocki and Miniopterus orianae oceanensis

These species’ calls have completely overlapping frequency range (42-47 kHz) and brief or low-quality

calls cannot be reliably differentiated. The few calls recorded at Lake Vermont had some evidence of

the narrow, curved pulse bodies more likely attributable to V. baverstocki (M. o. oceanensis is usually

more angular with flatter body); however, the low quality data precluded reliable attribution.

Mormopterus ridei

Call frequency (30-35 kHz) overlaps with that of C. gouldii, but M. ridei pulses are generally uniform

and flat or angular, compared with steeper, curved pulses that alternate in frequency for C. gouldii.

Most calls from this study were positively attributed to C. gouldii but a few had mixed or intermediate

pulse shapes and could have been from either species.

References

Churchill, S. (2008). Australian Bats. Jacana Books, Allen & Unwin; Sydney.

Corben, C. (2013). AnalookW for bat call analysis using ZCA. Version 3.9f; 22 March 2013.

Pennay, M., Law, B. and Reinhold, L. (2004). Bat Calls of New South Wales. Department of

Environment and Conservation, Hurstville.

Reardon, T. (2003). Standards in bat detector based surveys. Australasian Bat Society Newsletter

20, 41-43.

Reinhold, L., Law, B., Ford, G. and Pennay, M. (2001). Key to the bat calls of south-east Queensland

and north-east New South Wales. Department of Natural Resources and Mines, Brisbane.

van Dyck, S. and Strahan, R. (ed.) (2008). The Mammals of Australia (Third Edition). New Holland;

Sydney.


Appendix Representative call sequences recorded at Lake Vermont, 14-17 May 2013.(10msec per tick; time between pulses removed)

Chalinolobus gouldii Chalinolobus morio

Possibly Chalinolobus nigrogriseus Possibly Chalinolobus picatus

Nyctophilus sp. Scotorepens greyii or S. sanborni


V. baverstocki or M. o. oceanensis Austronomus australis

Mormopterus beccarii Possibly Mormopterus ridei

Saccolaimus flaviventris

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